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

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

During the 'Anasara' period when Lord Jagannath remains in isolation after Snana Purnima, devotees are flocking to Alarnath Temple in Brahmagiri for darshan. It is believed that visiting Alarnath during this time grants the same merit as seeing Lord Jagannath. Thousands of devotees gathered on the first day to offer prayers and receive Mahaprasad-like offerings, turning Brahmagiri into a secondary religious hub. https://www.dharitri.com/crowd-of-devotees-at-alarnath-temple/

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

A tragic road accident occurred on the Bathinda-Dabwali National Highway in Punjab when a Tempo Traveler carrying pilgrims from Balotra, Rajasthan, rammed into a parked truck. The accident resulted in 4 deaths, including two women, and left 7 others injured. The pilgrims were on their way to the Golden Temple in Amritsar and the Amarnath cave in Jammu and Kashmir. Police identified the deceased through their Aadhaar cards and have launched an investigation into the cause of the collision. https://sambad.in/india-and-beyond/four-dead-seven-injured-after-tempo-traveller-hits-parked-truck-in-punjab-12123105

Cuttack DCP Khilari Rishikesh has issued a statement regarding the death of Chauliaganj IIC Beauty Mohanty, who was found hanging in her official quarters. A high-level team including two IICs, an SP, and an Additional DCP is investigating the case. Police have recorded statements from her husband and two sisters, though no formal complaint has been filed by the family. Investigations will cover WhatsApp chats, social media, bank details, and call records. The phone has been sent to a forensic lab for analysis. While the husband has denied family disputes, the exact cause of death remains unclear. https://www.dharitri.com/cuttack-dcps-big-statement-on-the-suicide-of-chauliyaganj-iic/

The Election Commission of India has announced by-polls for three Rajya Sabha seats in West Bengal, scheduled for July 24, 2026. These seats became vacant following the resignations of MPs Sukhendu Sekhar Ray, Sushmita Dev, and Prakash Chik Baraik. Sukhendu Sekhar Ray resigned citing corruption within the TMC and concerns over violence against women, specifically mentioning the RG Kar Medical College incident. Sushmita Dev's resignation and subsequent meeting with Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma have sparked speculation about her joining the BJP. The EC ensured fair polling through dedicated observers and separate notifications for each vacancy as per the Representation of the People Act, 1951. https://argusnews.in/politics/rajya-sabha-by-elections-three-seats-election-commission-schedule

Former US President Donald Trump and Italian PM Giorgia Meloni are engaged in a social media spat. Trump shared a photo with Meloni on Truth Social, suggesting she sought a restraining order after previously claiming she 'begged' for a photo with him at the G7 summit. Meloni rejected these claims as false, stating Italy never 'begs' and prioritizes national interest over personal politics. The tension arises just before the NATO summit. https://www.dharitri.com/first-the-fight-now-trump-shares-a-photo-of-meloni-praising-him-italian-pm-sees-the-caption/

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi held a review meeting for the upcoming Rath Yatra and issued strict instructions regarding cordon passes. He directed district collectors not to issue any extra passes, restricting them only to essential sevayats and staff. The CM emphasized that the entire world is watching the Puri Rath Yatra and called for seamless coordination to ensure a flawless and safe event for devotees. He expressed confidence in the timely completion of rituals with the cooperation of sevayats. https://www.dharitri.com/cm-gives-assurance-at-rath-yatra-preparation-review-meeting/

A low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal has disrupted the livelihoods of over 10,000 fishermen in Mahakalapada, Kendrapara district. Due to warnings of heavy rain and strong winds from the IMD, fishermen are returning to shore from the deep sea. Coastal villages like Jambu, Batighar, and Ramnagar are on alert. Environmentalists note that local mangrove forests may help mitigate the impact of potential sea storms. https://www.dharitri.com/low-pressure-rains-disrupt-livelihoods-fishermen-return-to-shore-from-sea/