Category: News

Bhubaneswar, Apr 10 (BNP): In a formal appeal to Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, MP Aparajita Sarangi has urged the state government to reconsider the decision to halt the proposed Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Project, stressing its importance for the city’s long-term urban development.

Highlighting the rapid pace of population growth and urbanisation in Bhubaneswar, Sarangi said the city’s existing transport system is already under severe strain, leading to increasing traffic congestion in the capital and nearby areas. She noted that a metro rail network would provide a safer, faster, and more reliable public transport option for all sections of society, including women, senior citizens, children, and persons with disabilities.

She described the metro project as more than just a transport initiative, calling it a long-term investment in sustainable urban infrastructure and planned city growth.

On the economic front, the MP said the project could generate significant employment opportunities and attract fresh investments into the region. Improved connectivity to key cultural and religious landmarks such as the Lingaraj Temple, Dhauli, and ISKCON Temple Bhubaneswar, she added, could also give a strong boost to tourism and enhance the city’s profile as a modern urban centre.

Raising financial concerns, Sarangi pointed out that around ₹274 crore has already been spent on the project. She warned that stopping work at this stage could lead to a waste of public money and potentially increase costs if the project is restarted in the future.

She further emphasised that metro systems are long-term infrastructure assets that may not deliver immediate financial returns but provide substantial social and economic benefits over time.

Concluding her appeal, Sarangi urged the state government to consider public interest and long-term gains, and expressed willingness to work with the Centre to explore additional funding and support for the project.

The proposal to halt the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Project has triggered fresh debate over urban mobility priorities and infrastructure planning in the state.

New Delhi, Apr 10 (BNP): In a significant push towards expanding women’s representation in politics, the Union Cabinet has approved key proposals to accelerate the implementation of 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies.

The move involves amendments to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam along with a new Delimitation Bill. The aim is to bypass delays linked to the next Census by using data from the 2011 Census, allowing the reservation policy to be rolled out sooner.

According to sources, the government is planning a series of legislative steps to delink the reservation from the pending Census exercise, which had earlier been a key condition for its implementation.

The Cabinet has also cleared a proposal to expand the size of legislative bodies. The Delimitation Bill is expected to increase the number of seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies by around 50%, a move aimed at better representation as the population grows. A separate law is likely to address similar changes in Union Territories.

If implemented as planned, the expanded Lok Sabha could come into effect by the 2029 general elections, potentially reshaping India’s political landscape with a larger House and a substantial increase in women lawmakers.

This development marks a crucial step toward operationalizing the long-awaited women’s reservation policy, which has remained pending for years despite broad political consensus.

New Delhi, Apr 10 (BNP):  Droupadi Murmu has nominated Harivansh Narayan Singh to the Rajya Sabha, marking his return to the Upper House shortly after his previous term came to an end.

Harivansh’s earlier tenure in the Rajya Sabha concluded on April 9. His fresh nomination fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Ranjan Gogoi, who had been serving as a nominated member.

A seasoned parliamentarian and current Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Harivansh is widely regarded for his experience in legislative proceedings and parliamentary affairs. His re-entry is expected to bring continuity and stability to the functioning of the House.

The move also underscores the importance of experienced voices in the Upper House, especially at a time when legislative debates continue to play a crucial role in shaping policy and governance.

Fears rise over a possible major war and nuclear threat following predictions attributed to “China’s Nostradamus.” 

Chaina, Apr 10(BNP): Growing fears have emerged worldwide over the possibility of a major conflict and potential nuclear escalation, following recent predictions attributed to so-called “China’s Nostradamus.” The forecasts, which have gained traction across social media and online platforms, have sparked widespread speculation and anxiety among the public.

While such predictions remain unverified and speculative in nature, they have reignited discussions around global security, geopolitical tensions, and the risks associated with modern warfare. Experts have urged caution, emphasizing the importance of relying on credible sources and official statements rather than unsubstantiated claims.

Authorities and analysts continue to monitor international developments closely, while calling for calm and responsible dissemination of information to prevent unnecessary panic.

Bhubaneswar, Apr 9 (BNP): Odisha is accelerating its journey toward industrial growth and prosperity with the inauguration and foundation-laying of 36 new industrial projects at Bhubaneswar’s Bhuinpura industrial hub, involving a total investment of ₹40,811 crore.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said the projects mark a significant milestone in Odisha’s transformation from a state of potential to one experiencing tangible prosperity. Of the 36 projects, 25 have already been inaugurated, while the remaining 11 had their foundations laid during the event. These initiatives are expected to generate over 59,000 new jobs across the state.

The projects span a diverse range of sectors including green energy equipment, downstream industries, textiles and apparel, plastics, tourism, food processing, defense manufacturing, IT, automobiles, and cement. The Chief Minister emphasized that these projects will drive rapid economic growth, strengthen local industries, and create employment opportunities for the youth.

During the event, Mr. Majhi held a roundtable with industrialists from across India to discuss project implementation, offering government support in land, electricity, water, and connectivity. “The Odisha government is committed to providing all necessary assistance to ensure timely project execution and smooth industrial development,” the Chief Minister said.

He also noted that over the past 18–20 months, the state government has laid foundations or inaugurated 109 projects worth ₹2.5 lakh crore, creating 1.76 lakh jobs, positioning Odisha as a leading industrial destination in eastern India.

Officials and industry representatives highlighted that these new investments will significantly enhance the state’s industrial ecosystem, promote sustainable growth, and strengthen Odisha’s role in India’s manufacturing and export landscape.

Apr 9: Odisha is emerging as a trailblazer in India’s shift toward renewable energy, focusing on solar and wind projects in Western Odisha. The state is promoting clean energy, green manufacturing, and ESG-driven practices to ensure sustainable growth.

#Odisha is accelerating India’s green transition by emerging as a pioneer in renewable energy services. The State is driving sustainable growth through clean energy, innovation, and ESG-led practices while developing solar and wind energy hubs in Western Odisha.

With a focus on… pic.twitter.com/RaNZCfXeto

— Energy Odisha (@EnergyOdisha) April 8, 2026

With a goal to achieve 50% green energy consumption in the services sector by 2047, Odisha is also developing export-oriented green technology clusters. Officials say the strategy combines innovation, investment, and environmental responsibility, aiming to position the state as a global leader in renewable energy and sustainable development.

By integrating ESG frameworks into major projects, Odisha is setting an example for responsible growth that balances economic progress with environmental care, helping India move toward a greener, cleaner future.

Apr 9: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for increased women’s representation in legislative bodies, describing it as a key step to strengthen constitutional values and empower India’s Nari Shakti.

Let us move forward together and strengthen Constitutional values and empower our Nari Shakti for national progress. pic.twitter.com/pagvYa3Zad

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 9, 2026

In a recent op-ed, he emphasized that reserving seats for women is not just a legislative formality but a reflection of the aspirations of women across the country. The Prime Minister highlighted that inclusive governance, with active participation from women, is essential for fostering equitable development and driving national progress.

PM Modi noted that political empowerment of women creates a ripple effect, benefiting social welfare, education, and economic growth. He urged citizens, policymakers, and institutions to work together to ensure women have greater opportunities to shape decision-making and governance in India.

The article comes amid ongoing discussions in Parliament about implementing measures for women’s reservation in legislative bodies, underlining the government’s commitment to gender equality and inclusive leadership.

By advocating for women’s representation, the Prime Minister reinforced the vision of a future where India’s growth is powered by the full potential of its women leaders.

New Delhi, Apr 9 (BNP): India has secured its position as the world’s third-largest country in renewable energy capacity, marking a major milestone in its journey toward sustainable power, said R.K. Singh.

The government has set an ambitious target of achieving 500 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy by 2030, driven by solar, wind, and emerging green technologies. This move reflects India’s commitment to cleaner energy, reducing carbon emissions, and meeting the country’s growing electricity demand sustainably.

 Minister R.K. Singh emphasized that renewable energy is not only an environmental necessity but also a key catalyst for economic growth and employment. The expansion of clean energy infrastructure is creating opportunities for local communities, fostering innovation, and strengthening India’s energy security.

India’s rapid progress in renewables is supported by strong policies, investment incentives, and public-private partnerships. Large-scale solar parks, wind farms, and hybrid energy projects are already under development, helping the country move steadily toward its 2030 goal.

Achieving 500 GW by 2030 would cement India’s leadership in the global green energy transition, providing both environmental benefits and sustainable economic growth for millions of citizens across the nation.

New Delhi, Apr 9 (BNP): Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening India’s clean energy ecosystem while accelerating development in the Northeast India.

Addressing recent initiatives, he highlighted efforts to expand renewable energy infrastructure, promote green technologies, and create sustainable jobs. These measures aim not only to reduce India’s carbon footprint but also to harness the economic potential of the northeastern states.

PM Modi noted that clean energy projects, including solar, wind, and hydroelectric ventures, are being integrated with regional development plans to ensure equitable growth. Improved infrastructure, better connectivity, and investment incentives are helping the Northeast emerge as a hub for green innovation and industrial progress.

He underscored that these steps are part of a broader vision to balance environmental sustainability with economic growth, creating opportunities for local communities while contributing to India’s energy transition.

The government’s approach seeks to make the Northeast a model for inclusive, clean-energy-driven development, combining ecological responsibility with long-term prosperity.

New Delhi, Apr 9 (BNP): The government has announced an increase in the supply of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to industrial units operating in critical sectors, aiming to support production and maintain smooth operations.

This move is expected to benefit industries such as chemicals, ceramics, and manufacturing, where LPG serves as a primary fuel for heating, processing, and other industrial applications. By ensuring a steady supply, authorities aim to prevent disruptions that could affect output and supply chains.

Officials highlighted that the decision comes in response to growing demand from industrial consumers and is part of broader efforts to strengthen energy security. The measure is also intended to support businesses in managing costs and sustaining growth during periods of heightened energy requirements.

Industry representatives have welcomed the announcement, noting that consistent LPG availability will help maintain production schedules, reduce operational bottlenecks, and support overall economic activity in these sectors.

This step underscores the government’s commitment to balancing energy supply with industrial needs, ensuring that key sectors continue to operate efficiently while meeting domestic and export demand.