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

A 116-year-old woman named Navaneethamma displayed extraordinary devotion by climbing 3,550 steps and walking 9 km to visit the Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh. Her inspiring journey went viral on social media, earning praise from Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) arranged a special VIP darshan for her and her family in recognition of her incredible spirit. https://argusnews.in/viral-stories/116-year-old-woman-climbs-tirumala-hills-for-venkateswara-darshan

FIFA has suspended the red card issued to American forward Folarin Balogun during the Round of 32 match against Bosnia-Herzegovina. This decision allows Balogun to play in the upcoming pre-quarterfinal match against Belgium. U.S. President Donald Trump thanked FIFA on his Truth Social platform, calling the reversal a 'great justice.' The move followed a request from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, with FIFA citing Article 27 of its disciplinary code to put the suspension on a one-year probationary period. https://www.dharitri.com/president-trump-thanks-fifa-after-red-card-revocation/

The Election Commission of India has announced the election dates for 3 vacant Rajya Sabha seats in West Bengal. Voting will take place on July 24 from 9 AM to 4 PM, followed by counting at 5 PM the same day. These seats became vacant after the resignations of TMC MPs Sukhendu Sekhar Ray, Sushmita Dev, and Prakash Chik Baraik. The nomination deadline is July 14, with withdrawals allowed until July 17. Given the current assembly composition, BJP is expected to win all three seats, potentially increasing the NDA's tally in the Rajya Sabha. https://www.dharitri.com/election-dates-announced-for-3-vacant-rajya-sabha-seats-in-west-bengal/

A 24-year-old pregnant woman named Baidi Bhatra died after being bitten by a poisonous snake in Purniguda village of Nabarangpur district. The incident occurred early in the morning while she was sleeping on the floor. Although she was rushed to the Jharigam Community Health Centre, she was declared dead on arrival. The incident has left the local community in mourning. https://sambad.in/district/nabarangpur/pregnant-woman-dies-after-venomous-snake-bite-in-nabarangpur-jharigaon-12138108

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi chaired the final coordination committee meeting for the world-famous Rath Yatra. He issued a 10-point directive to ensure an accident-free festival, emphasizing strict restrictions on 'Inner Cordon' passes, which will only be issued to essential sevayats and officials. The CM directed the use of AI and drones for crowd management and urged the police to monitor social media for rumors. He highlighted the importance of real-time management for women's safety, traffic control, and health services to ensure a flawless experience for devotees. https://argusnews.in/odisha/rath-yatra-2026-cordon-pass-strict-rules-no-arbitrary-distribution