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

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

A 10-foot long python was rescued from a poultry farm in Bisibahal village under Komna range in Nuapada district. The snake had reportedly consumed 10 chickens in the farm belonging to Dhanurya Pradhan. Local snake catchers Suresh Kumar Mallick, Kamal Pandey, and Tofan Mallick safely captured the reptile, which was later released into the nearby forest by the forest department. https://sambad.in/state/10-foot-python-rescued-from-poultry-farm-in-nuapada-after-devouring-chickens-12139705

Ethanol production is becoming a highly profitable business in India's clean fuel strategy. While production costs range from ₹35 to ₹45 per liter, oil marketing companies buy it at ₹49 to ₹65 per liter. Depending on raw materials like sugarcane juice or maize, producers earn profits between ₹15 and ₹23 per liter. A medium-sized 30 KLPD plant can potentially generate an annual net profit of ₹16 to ₹21 crore. https://odishasambad.in/how-much-cost-to-produce-one-liter-of-ethanol/

A controversy has erupted in FIFA World Cup 2026 involving USA striker Folarin Balogun. Despite receiving a red card in the Round of 32 against Bosnia and Herzegovina, Balogun has been allowed to play in the Round of 16 against Belgium. Allegations have surfaced regarding the intervention of US President Donald Trump in this decision. While the Belgian team and European Football Association criticized the move, FIFA clarified that the decision was taken under Article 27. https://odishasambad.in/fifa-reverses-usa-striker-folarin-balogun-red-card-suspension-after-donald-trump-intervention/

Akshay Kumar and director Priyadarshan are reuniting for their ninth collaboration, a comedy-thriller titled 'Wicked Sunny'. Produced under Tips Films, the title references Akshay's iconic theme from the 2004 film 'Mujhse Shaadi Karogi'. Written by Priyadarshan and Rohan Shankar, the movie is expected to go on floors in December. This announcement comes amid excitement for their other projects like 'Bhoot Bangla' and 'Hiawaan'. https://otvkhabar.in/entertainment/akshay-kumar-priyadarshans-next-comedy-thriller-gets-a-quirky-identity-wicked-sunny-locked-as-official-title-12137929

The Odisha Meteorological Department has issued a yellow warning for Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj districts due to a depression over South Jharkhand and North Odisha. Light to moderate rainfall is expected across many parts of the state in the next 24 hours. So far, Odisha has recorded 324.2 mm of rainfall since June 1, which is 22% above normal. Sonepur recorded the highest rainfall, while Kalahandi, Sundargarh, and Nabarangpur are still experiencing a deficit. https://otvkhabar.in/odisha/odisha-weather-may-change-from-tomorrow-12139662

The 8th Pay Commission held a two-day consultation meeting in Bhubaneswar with central government employee unions and pensioners. Unions demanded a fitment factor of 3.83, which could raise the minimum basic pay to approximately ₹69,000. This regional consultation is a key step before the panel finalizes its recommendations for revising salaries and pensions for nearly 55 lakh employees and 69 lakh pensioners. After Odisha, the commission will head to Kolkata on July 9 and 10 for the next round of discussions. https://argusnews.in/education-employment/8th-pay-commission-odisha-consultation-final-day-salary-panel-meeting

Due to continuous rainfall in the upper catchment areas, the water level of Hirakud Dam has increased. Authorities have announced that the first floodwaters of the season will be released on July 9 at 11 AM. Consequently, the water levels of the Mahanadi River and its tributaries are expected to rise. The administration has advised residents in riverside and low-lying areas to remain alert and avoid going near the riverbanks. https://zeenews.india.com/hindi/zeeodisha/state-news/hirakud-dam-to-release-first-floodwater-on-july-9/3261991