The article details the spiritual significance and rewards of witnessing Lord Jagannath's Ratha Yatra as described in scriptures like Skanda Purana and Niladri Mahodaya. It explains that seeing the deities on their chariots, especially during the return journey (Bahuda Yatra), leads to salvation and Vaikuntha. Walking to see the chariots yields the merit of an Ashvamedha Yagna at every step. Additionally, visiting the deities on the Adapa Mandapa is equivalent to a thousand Vajapeya Yagnas, offering liberation from the cycle of rebirth. https://sambad.in/special/life-mantra-the-benefits-of-seeing-the-rath-yatra-12213857

Farmers in Dharakote block of Ganjam district are facing severe fertilizer shortages and black marketing issues despite good rainfall. While cooperative societies are providing limited stock, private dealers are allegedly selling fertilizers at high prices. Despite minor raids by the administration, the black market continues in areas like Mathura and Dhaugaon. Farmers are demanding intervention from the District Collector as they are forced to buy fertilizers at inflated rates by taking loans. https://www.dharitri.com/farmers-are-not-getting-fertilizer-black-market-is-growing/

Indian athletes are performing exceptionally well at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. Three judokas—Harsh Singh, Yamini Maurya, and Asmita Dey—have reached the finals, securing a chance for gold. In boxing, Ankush Panghal and Preeti have also entered the finals, while eight others, including Jasmine Lamboria, have confirmed medals. Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra is set to compete in the javelin throw final, and Tejaswin Shankar holds the second spot in decathlon. India has secured 17 medals so far. https://otvkhabar.in/sports/commonwealth-games-2026-3-judokas-to-fight-for-gold-medal-boxer-jaismine-lamboria-in-action-next-12216506

BJP National Spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla follows a strict fitness regime to stay active amidst the pressures of politics. He reveals that he never skips his workout, even on Sundays, to maintain physical and mental well-being. Poonawalla emphasizes that staying fit is essential in a high-pressure field like politics, and his routine includes regular exercise and a balanced diet. His dedication serves as an inspiration for the youth and sets a health-conscious example among politicians. https://odishasambad.in/inside-shehzad-poonawallas-fitness-routine-why-he-never-misses-a-workout-even-on-sundays/

The Board of Secondary Education has extended the matriculation form fill-up deadline to August 14, 2024. The decision was made considering the flood situation in Odisha, which caused transportation and internet issues for students in affected areas. Previously, the deadline was July 31. School authorities and students have been advised to complete the process as soon as possible without waiting for the last date. https://odishasambad.in/matric-form-fill-up-date-extended-decision-taken-in-view-of-flood-situation/

Tension erupted at Rourkela railway station when the Ara-Durg South Bihar Express was suddenly terminated at Rourkela. Around 200 devotees returning to Bilaspur protested against the lack of prior notice. The situation was resolved after RPF and railway officials intervened and arranged alternative travel options via Ispat and Hirakud Express trains. https://odishasambad.in/a-tense-situation-has-arisen-at-rourkela-railway-station/

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted below-normal rainfall for August due to the prevailing El Niño conditions in the Pacific Ocean. Total rainfall is expected to be less than 94% of the Long Period Average (LPA). While parts of Northwest and East India might see normal rain, the overall monsoon strength remains weak. Experts suggest that a positive Indian Ocean Dipole in September could potentially improve the situation, which is crucial for agriculture and water security. https://otvkhabar.in/national/india-to-receive-below-normal-rainfall-in-august-moderate-el-nino-to-persist-imd-12216461

Over 400 cattle and 16 cowherds were rescued from the Dhabaleswar temple island near Astaranga in Puri district after being trapped by sudden floodwaters. The rescue operation was carried out by the Konark and Astaranga Fire Services using power boats. Despite the strong river currents, fire personnel successfully moved all animals and individuals to safety after a lengthy operation. https://otvkhabar.in/odisha/dramatic-flood-rescue-operation-saved-stranded-cattle-and-herders-from-dhabaleswar-temple-island-safely-12216472

Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi is scheduled to conduct an aerial survey of flood-affected Jajpur, Bhadrak, Balasore, and Keonjhar districts on Saturday at 10 AM. He will be accompanied by Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari and the Special Relief Commissioner. The survey aims to assess the flood situation and review ongoing relief and rescue operations. Previously, the CM had directed senior officials and appointed three IAS officers to monitor the situation while he was in New Delhi. https://odishasambad.in/odisha-cm-to-conduct-aerial-survey-of-flood-hit-districts-tomorrow/