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

In a major anti-insurgency and anti-drug operation in Manipur, security forces arrested 6 militants belonging to banned groups KCP and UNLF, along with 4 drug smugglers within 24 hours. The operation led to the recovery of one INSAS rifle, 24 country-made guns, a large cache of ammunition, and 239 kg of ganja. To maintain law and order and curb extortion activities, 114 checkpoints have been established across the state's valley and hill districts. https://odishasambad.in/six-militants-four-drug-smugglers-arrested-in-manipur-arms-ganja-seized/

The BCCI has announced the Indian squad for the upcoming T20 series against Zimbabwe. Wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson has been dropped due to poor performance in recent matches against Ireland and England. Shreyas Iyer has been appointed as the captain for this tour. Young talents like Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Prabhsimran Singh, Ashok Sharma, and Yash Thakur have earned call-ups to the T20 squad. Additionally, Shivam Dube has replaced Nitish Reddy in the ODI squad. The three-match T20 series is scheduled to begin on July 23. https://zeenews.india.com/hindi/zeeodisha/sports/bcci-announced-team-india-squad-for-zimbabwe-tour-sanju-samson-dropped-from-t20-squad/3262046

AIIMS Bhubaneswar has ranked 10th in the India Today-MDRA Best Medical College Survey 2026, marking a significant achievement for Odisha. It also secured the 2nd position in the 'Most Improved' medical college category. The institution jumped from 25th rank in 2021 to 10th in 2026, based on parameters like academic excellence, infrastructure, and placement. Executive Director Dr. Ashutosh Biswas attributed this success to continuous commitment to quality healthcare and research. https://odishasambad.in/aiims-bhubaneswar-shines-bright-ranked-among-top-10-medical-colleges-in-india/

A political controversy has erupted in the Football World Cup involving US President Donald Trump. It is alleged that FIFA withdrew the suspension of US player Folarin Balogun following Trump's intervention. Balogun received a red card in a match against Bosnia and was set to miss the pre-quarterfinal against Belgium. However, after Trump reportedly spoke with FIFA chief Gianni Infantino, the suspension was deferred for a year of probation, allowing Balogun to play. Belgium and UEFA have strongly opposed this decision, questioning the transparency of the sport. https://sambad.in/sports/controversy-over-the-revocation-of-the-american-players-suspension-12139904

Thousands of women in Nabarangpur district staged a massive protest against liquor sales by surrounding the Collector's office with sticks in hand. Led by the District Nari Mahasangh, the protesters blocked the National Highway for two hours and submitted a 10-point charter of demands. They are calling for a complete ban on illegal and licensed liquor shops, citing rising domestic violence and social issues. They have warned of intensified protests if their demands are not met within 15 days. https://sambad.in/state/thousands-of-women-gherao-nabarangpur-collectorate-demand-district-wide-liquor-ban-12139889

The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) has appointed three senior IPS officers to top positions. Alok Kumar Mittal (Haryana cadre) is the new Director General of BPR&D until June 2029. Amit Garg (Andhra Pradesh cadre) has been appointed as the Director of NCRB until October 2027. Additionally, Sujit Pandey (Uttar Pradesh cadre) has been named as the Director of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA) in Hyderabad. https://sambad.in/india-and-beyond/senior-ips-officer-amit-garg-appointed-ncrb-chief-12139947