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 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

In a strange incident in Gargarabahala village, Redhakhol, Sambalpur, a thief returned stolen gold ornaments and cash just hours after the theft. The incident, which occurred during the day and saw items returned by the same evening, has become a topic of discussion due to the thief's unexpected change of heart. https://otvkhabar.in/videosodisha/society/show-humanity-thief-loot-odisha-crime-otv-otvshorts-humanity-12137981

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

Vedanta Aluminium's coal mines have strengthened healthcare services in remote areas of Odisha through their Mobile Health Unit (MHU) program. This initiative has reached over 50,000 beneficiaries, including 4,000 children, across 16 villages in Sundargarh and Jharsuguda districts. In the past three years, the program has conducted over 3,500 free medical camps and 1,100 health awareness sessions. The units focus on early diagnosis, providing free consultations and medicines for chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, as well as maternal and child health. This effort is part of Vedanta's broader community development initiative reaching over 2 lakh people across 26 villages. https://zeenews.india.com/hindi/zeeodisha/state-news/coal-mine-mobile-health-unit-benefits-over-50k-people/3262063

The Khurda Road Division of East Coast Railway has cancelled 8 MEMU trains due to track renewal and modernization work. The cancellation is effective around July 7th to ensure safety and infrastructure development. Passengers are advised to check the National Train Enquiry System (NTES) app or railway helplines for the latest updates before heading to the station. https://odishasambad.in/8-memu-trains-cancelled-due-to-track-renewal-work-in-khurda-road-division/

Researchers at Sambalpur University have developed a polyherbal anti-cancer formulation using five rare medicinal plants from the Gandhamardan hills. In animal trials conducted since 2019, cancer tumors in mice were successfully cured within 35 days without side effects. The study, involving PhD scholars and NCCS Pune, claims this herbal formula selectively destroys cancer cells unlike chemotherapy. Clinical trials on humans will soon commence in collaboration with AIIMS Bhubaneswar and CCRS under the Ministry of AYUSH. https://otvkhabar.in/odisha/odisha-researchers-achieve-cancer-treatment-success-12140004

Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi chaired a high-level review meeting in Puri for the smooth conduct of the upcoming Rath Yatra. He emphasized coordination between officials and servitors to ensure a glitch-free festival. Detailed arrangements for health, sanitation, drinking water, and traffic management are in place. The CM directed police to take strict action against rumor-mongers and ensure devotee safety. A booklet titled 'Ruparekha- Rath Yatra 2026' was also released during the event. https://odishatazanews.com/?p=207384

The Tampara lake and Chatrapur town in Ganjam are facing an environmental threat due to large-scale deforestation by IREL for sand mining. The removal of coastal Casuarina forests between the Bay of Bengal and the lake has increased the risk of sea ingress, similar to the situation in Aryapalli. Locals report rising temperatures, decreased rainfall, and loss of biodiversity. Residents have petitioned the District Collector to intervene and stop the tree cutting to prevent potential flooding of the residential areas by seawater. https://www.dharitri.com/tampara-lake-will-be-submerged-in-seawater-chhatrapur-city-will-be-in-danger/

In a major FIFA World Cup upset, Norway defeated five-time champions Brazil 2-1 to reach the quarter-finals for the first time. Erling Haaland scored two goals (79', 90') to stun Brazil, while Neymar's late goal wasn't enough to save his team. With 7 goals in the tournament, Haaland is now a joint-top scorer alongside Messi and Mbappe. The article also highlights Haaland's past connection with India, where he played against the Indian U-17 team in 2016. Norway will now face England in the quarter-finals. https://sambad.in/sports/haland-magic-norway-in-quater-12140005