Odisha is experiencing more than normal rainfall this season as the monsoon remains active across the state. The meteorological department reports that the rainfall levels have exceeded average figures, potentially impacting agriculture and local infrastructure. Weather authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. https://otvkhabar.in/videosodisha/society/more-than-normal-rainfall-in-the-state-otvshorts-rain-weatherreport-12136586

The Odisha government has decided to distribute the 'Laxmi Purana' to women across the state. This initiative aims to preserve and promote Odia culture, heritage, and the significance of the Laxmi Purana, which is traditionally recited in Odia households during the month of Margasira. The move is seen as an effort to strengthen Odia identity and spiritual values at the grassroots level. https://otvkhabar.in/videosodisha/society/the-government-will-share-lakshmipuran-otvshorts-laxmipurana-odishagovt-12127986

Indian Railways has introduced special train services between Jammu and Srinagar to facilitate Amarnath Yatra pilgrims. This initiative aims to manage the rush and ensure a safe, comfortable journey for devotees. Measures include Aadhaar KYC verification outside stations to reduce crowding and on-spot registration at Pantha Chowk for those not yet registered. Enhanced security with RFID tracking and coordination between RPF and local police are in place for the 57-day pilgrimage ending on August 28. https://zeenews.india.com/hindi/zeeodisha/state-news/indian-railways-gift-to-amarnath-yatra-pilgrims-introduces-special-jammu-srinagar-train-services/3261299

The upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament, scheduled from July 20 to August 13, is expected to focus on key issues like the Delimitation (Boundary Redistribution) and Women's Reservation Bill. While the government views delimitation as essential for fair representation, opposition parties raise concerns about its impact on political parity. The session will also likely witness debates on the economy, price hikes, and national security. Additionally, the report mentions that India recorded its fifth driest June due to delayed monsoon rains. https://sambad.in/india-and-beyond/parliament-monsoon-session-july-20-delimitation-womens-reservation-bill-12131595

Stray cattle, including cows, oxen, and goats, have taken over National Highway 59 passing through Daringbadi in Kandhamal district. Due to continuous rain and muddy conditions elsewhere, these animals are resting on the dry surface of the highway, leading to severe traffic congestion and an increase in road accidents. The problem is particularly acute on the 50km stretch between Baliguda and Daringbadi, where animals occupy the road every few kilometers. Locals are demanding that the administration take strict action and sensitize cattle owners to ensure public safety. https://www.dharitri.com/national-highways-have-become-a-wasteland-causing-traffic-problems-in-daringbadi/

Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan married Gauri Spratt in a private ceremony at his Bandra residence on July 5. The intimate wedding was attended by family and close friends, including former cricketer Irfan Pathan, who shared a video of the ceremony on Instagram. The emotional event featured the couple exchanging vows and dancing together. Notably, Aamir's former wives, Reena Dutta and Kiran Rao, were present to welcome Gauri. Aamir and Gauri have known each other for 25 years, and their long-standing friendship eventually turned into marriage. Aamir had first introduced Gauri publicly on his 60th birthday. https://otvkhabar.in/entertainment/aamir-khan-and-gauri-spratt-exchange-heartfelt-vows-celebrate-with-dance-at-intimate-wedding-watch-12138050

The Indian government has issued a notice to Meta regarding WhatsApp's new username feature, extending the deadline for a response to July 9. The government is concerned that the feature, which allows users to communicate without sharing phone numbers, could lead to increased online fraud, phishing, and impersonation. While Meta claims the feature enhances privacy and has multiple security layers, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) remains skeptical, citing misuse of similar features on platforms like Telegram. A final decision on the rollout in India will be made after reviewing Meta's detailed response. https://argusnews.in/tech/govt-notice-to-whatsapp-username-feature-meta-deadline-july-9

Mobile recharge prices in India are expected to increase by 12-15% within the next 3-4 months, according to a report by Centrum Institutional Research. The consolidation of the telecom market into a few major players has created a favorable environment for price hikes. Companies like Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel are expected to gain millions of new customers and see a rise in Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) as 2G users migrate to 4G and 5G services. In contrast, Vodafone Idea might lose around 2 lakh customers during this period. https://sambad.in/india-and-beyond/mobile-recharge-price-hike-12-15-percent-next-3-4-months-india-12138301

Odisha Police has made extensive security arrangements for Rath Yatra 2026 in Puri. Over 12,000 police personnel and 19 senior IPS officers will be deployed to manage the crowds. Advanced technology including CCTV cameras and a central command center will monitor the city. Special teams like NSG, BSF, and CRPF will be stationed for safety. Additionally, measures for water logging, health services through 8 temporary hospitals, and 1,700 temporary toilets have been arranged for devotees. https://argusnews.in/odisha/rath-yatra-2026-security-12000-police-deployed-puri

Passengers at Bagdihi railway station in Jharsuguda district are facing severe difficulties due to waterlogging on the platform route after minor rainfall. Ongoing construction work has left deep pits filled with water, forcing passengers to wade through knee-deep water. Locals have criticized the railway administration for failing to provide alternative paths or safety measures during expansion work, putting the lives of elderly, children, and disabled passengers at risk. https://sambad.in/district/jharsuguda/bagdihi-railway-station-waterlogging-passenger-problems-jharsuguda-12138183