Category: News

New Delhi, May 19 (BNP): In a significant reform aimed at improving transparency and candidate engagement, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced that it will release the provisional answer key for the Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2026 shortly after the examination scheduled on May 24, marking a major departure from its long-standing practice.

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Describing the move as “a new beginning,” Dr. Ajay Kumar said the initiative is intended to institutionalise greater transparency, responsiveness and structured participation within India’s premier civil services recruitment process.

Traditionally, UPSC released official answer keys only after completion of the entire examination cycle, including the Preliminary Examination, Main Examination and Personality Test, often leaving aspirants dependent on unofficial answer keys to assess performance and determine their preparation strategy for subsequent stages.

Under the newly introduced system, candidates will gain early access to a provisional answer key soon after the Preliminary Examination, enabling them to evaluate their performance with greater clarity and confidence. The Commission has also opened a formal mechanism for aspirants to raise objections through the Online Question Paper Representation Portal (QPRep) available on the UPSC online platform.

According to the revised process, candidates will be allowed to submit objections and representations until May 31, 2026, at 6:00 PM, if they identify discrepancies in the provisional answer key. To ensure credibility and academic rigour, objections must be supported with documentary evidence and reasoned explanations using recognised academic references, with candidates permitted to cite up to three authentic sources.

The Commission stated that all objections will undergo detailed scrutiny by expert panels comprising subject specialists before the final answer key is prepared. Only valid and evidence-backed representations will be considered for incorporation into the final version.

While the reform allows quicker clarity on answer accuracy, UPSC clarified that official Preliminary Examination marks will continue to be released only after the conclusion of the complete recruitment cycle, maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of the examination process.

Education experts and aspirants have welcomed the development, noting that timely access to answer keys could significantly reduce uncertainty and help qualifying candidates transition more efficiently into preparation for the highly competitive Main Examination. The move is being seen as a landmark procedural reform that could redefine transparency standards in India’s competitive examination ecosystem.

Bhubaneswar, May 19: A fire incident was reported in VSS Nagar, Bhubaneswar, today amid ongoing intense heatwave conditions in the region. The exact cause of the fire is currently unknown.

At this stage, no confirmed cause has been established, and authorities are examining all possible factors. The fire was brought under control after prompt response measures by emergency services.

Officials are continuing on-ground assessment to determine the extent of damage and other details related to the incident.

Residents have been advised to remain cautious due to the prevailing high temperatures and to follow safety guidelines issued by local authorities.

New Delhi, May 19 (BNP): Major pharmacy chains, hospital-attached medical stores, Jan Aushadhi Kendras and AMRIT Pharmacy outlets across the country will continue operations on May 20, despite a nationwide shutdown call issued by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) against the functioning of e-pharmacies and online medicine platforms.

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The decision comes following discussions between representatives of the AIOCD and national drug regulatory authorities, during which concerns regarding online medicine sales, regulatory oversight and market practices were raised. According to sources, the association was assured that the concerns are under active review and that the existing regulatory framework governing the sector is being examined to address issues affecting retail pharmacy stakeholders.

Several pharmacy associations and retail medicine networks have reportedly chosen not to participate in the proposed shutdown, citing the importance of uninterrupted healthcare services and the potential hardship that medicine shortages could create for patients dependent on essential and life-saving drugs.

Sources indicated that retail pharmacy associations from multiple states and Union Territories, including West Bengal, Kerala, Punjab, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand and Ladakh, have provided written assurances confirming that pharmacies under their jurisdiction will continue to function normally.

The AIOCD, which represents more than 1.24 million chemists and drug distributors nationwide, had earlier announced a one-day strike on May 20 to protest what it termed the unregulated expansion of e-pharmacy operations and alleged predatory pricing practices. The organisation has raised concerns over the sale of medicines without adequate prescription verification and warned against the misuse of digital systems that could potentially enable unauthorised access to antibiotics and habit-forming medicines.

The trade body has also expressed apprehension over deep discounting practices by large corporate-backed online medicine platforms, arguing that such pricing structures threaten the sustainability of small and independent pharmacies, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas where access to physical chemist shops remains critical.

At the same time, stakeholders opposing the shutdown stressed that closure of pharmacy outlets could adversely affect patients requiring continuous medication and emergency healthcare support. Consumer welfare and uninterrupted access to medicines, they said, remain a priority while regulatory concerns are addressed through consultation and policy review.

The issue of e-pharmacy regulation continues to remain under scrutiny, with industry bodies seeking stricter safeguards, clearer compliance mechanisms and a balanced policy framework to ensure fair competition while protecting public health interests.

New Delhi, May 19 (BNP): The Ministry of Ayush has issued a public health advisory in response to rising temperatures and heatwave conditions across several parts of the country, urging citizens to take necessary precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.

The advisory outlines key preventive measures such as maintaining adequate hydration, avoiding direct exposure to sunlight during peak hours, and limiting strenuous outdoor activities. Citizens have been advised to wear light, breathable clothing, consume sufficient fluids, and adopt simple lifestyle adjustments to reduce the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

Emphasising India’s traditional systems of wellness, the Ministry has also recommended incorporating Ayurvedic practices, seasonal dietary habits, and cooling foods into daily routines to help the body adapt to extreme heat conditions. The advisory encourages the use of natural cooling methods along with balanced nutrition to maintain overall health and immunity during the summer season.

In addition to preventive guidance, the Ministry has highlighted basic emergency response steps for heat-related illnesses, including immediate cooling of the body, rehydration, and seeking timely medical assistance in severe cases.

The advisory is aimed at increasing public awareness and strengthening preparedness as several regions continue to face intense heatwave conditions, with special focus on protecting vulnerable groups such as children, elderly persons, and outdoor workers.

Bhubaneswar, May 18 (BNP): The Securities and Exchange Board of India will soon establish a branch office in Bhubaneswar, marking a significant step toward strengthening financial market regulation and investor outreach in eastern India. The announcement was made by SEBI Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey while addressing a regional investor awareness programme organized by the Association of Mutual Funds in India in the city.

Pandey said SEBI would initially begin operations from a smaller office in Bhubaneswar, with activities currently managed through Mumbai and Kolkata gradually shifting to the new centre. He added that plans are also underway to establish a permanent office in the state capital in the future.

Highlighting the growing relevance of alternative financing mechanisms, the SEBI Chairman encouraged Odisha to explore the use of municipal bonds to fund urban infrastructure and development projects. He noted that 22 urban local bodies across the country have issued 33 municipal bonds, mobilizing nearly Rs 4,500 crore for development activities. Municipal corporations in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh have already benefited from the model, he said.

Pandey emphasized that Odisha, with its expanding urban landscape, should leverage municipal bonds to meet increasing financial requirements for infrastructure expansion. He also pointed out that the Central government offers grant-based incentives to encourage such bond issuances.

Speaking on the growth of India’s mutual fund industry, Pandey said the sector has expanded significantly from nearly Rs 12 lakh crore in 2015-16 to around Rs 82 lakh crore at present. Odisha’s contribution currently stands at about Rs 71,000 crore, accounting for less than one per cent of the national market.

Observing that Odisha contributes nearly three per cent to India’s economy, he said the state’s participation in the mutual fund ecosystem should also rise proportionately. At the same time, he noted that Odisha remains among the leading states in terms of monthly growth in Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) investments.

He further highlighted the rapid growth of India’s capital market over the past decade, stating that the country’s total market capitalization increased from Rs 95 lakh crore in 2015-16 to Rs 463 lakh crore in 2025-26. During the same period, the number of investors rose from 3.8 crore to 14.5 crore.

Pandey also said India recorded 366 Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) in 2025-26, through which companies raised nearly Rs 1.9 lakh crore, placing the country among global leaders in IPO activity.

Bhubaneswar, May 18 (BNP): Odisha is poised to play a pivotal role in strengthening India’s energy security, with Chandikhol set to emerge as a major strategic crude oil storage hub under a significant India-UAE energy partnership formalized during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the United Arab Emirates.

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Under the proposed initiative, Chandikhol will house a massive underground strategic petroleum reserve with a storage capacity of nearly 40 lakh metric tonnes of crude oil. Estimated at around Rs 8,743 crore, the project is expected to significantly enhance India’s emergency fuel preparedness and strengthen long-term energy resilience.

The agreement for the project was signed between the Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Limited and the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company during Prime Minister Modi’s visit, following discussions with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The partnership is seen as a major step toward deepening bilateral cooperation in the energy sector and reinforcing India-UAE strategic ties.

Although the Union Cabinet had approved the project in 2018, implementation was delayed due to land acquisition-related challenges. With renewed focus and momentum, the project is now expected to move forward, positioning Odisha as an important pillar in India’s petroleum infrastructure network.

Experts believe the underground reserve will play a vital role during emergency or war-like situations by helping maintain fuel availability in the event of disruptions to global crude oil supplies. The facility is also expected to strengthen India’s strategic fuel reserves and improve preparedness against international supply uncertainties.

Once operational, the project is likely to boost industrial growth, infrastructure development and employment opportunities in Odisha, further reinforcing the state’s growing importance in India’s energy and industrial ecosystem.

New Delhi, May 18 : Marking a historic milestone, Sikkim united in celebrating the closing of 50 glorious years of Statehood in the esteemed presence of the Vice President, Mr C P Radhakrishnan, at Manan Kendra, on Saturday.

The event had the presence of Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Mr Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Governor, Government of Sikkim, Mr Om Prakash Mathur, Chief Minister, Mr Prem Singh Tamang, Madam Krishna Rai,

Addressing the gathering, the Vice President of India praised Sikkim as a model of harmony, sustainability and disciplined living. He said he felt honoured to participate in the Statehood Day celebrations and described Sikkim as “organic not only in agriculture but also in character.”

Recalling his road journey to Gangtok, the Vice President stated that he witnessed warmth, dignity, cleanliness and civic discipline among the people of the state. Calling Sikkim a shining example of harmony between nature, culture and governance, he remarked that the state had demonstrated how development and environmental conservation could progress together. He also described Sikkim as a “sentinel of the nation” considering its strategic importance.

Praising the state’s tourism sector and eco-tourism initiatives, the Vice President described Gangtok’s MG Marg as an example for the rest of the country in terms of cleanliness and civic management. He urged tourists visiting the state to respect local culture, traditions and cleanliness standards. Referring to the Swachh Bharat Mission, he stated that behavioural change gradually evolves into a social habit through sustained public participation and awareness.

The Vice President further appreciated the state’s improving connectivity, including railway expansion and tourism infrastructure projects, and expressed hope of visiting Sikkim again in the near future. Concluding his address, he extended his best wishes for continued peace, prosperity and progress for the people of Sikkim.

Union Minister Mr Jyotiraditya Scindia, in his address, praised Sikkim’s development journey, organic farming success and upcoming connectivity projects, describing the state as a symbol of peace, pride and progress.

He lauded several landmark tourism and infrastructure initiatives, including the Bhaleydunga ropeway project, which he described as unique in the world. He also praised Buddha Park at Ravangla and appreciated Sikkim’s orchid conservation efforts led by GMC commissioner, Mr Gayden Chopel Bhutia, noting that the state’s Orchidarium had earned recognition from Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi for its uniqueness.

Highlighting connectivity initiatives, the Union Minister informed that nearly 710 kilometres of National Highway projects are currently underway in Sikkim. He further announced that alternative highway routes connecting Singtam to Melli and Melli to Sevoke would also be developed.

Reiterating the Government of India’s commitment towards improving connectivity in the Northeast, he stated that railway connectivity to Sikkim would soon become a reality and expressed hope that railway services in the state would be inaugurated within the next year.

On agriculture, he described Sikkim as a global benchmark for organic farming and stated that around 70,000 farming families are engaged in organic cultivation across the state. He also announced the development of three new cold storage facilities to strengthen the organic supply chain and agricultural infrastructure. Concluding his address, he remarked that Sikkim’s story reflected a journey of peace, a journey of pride, and a journey of progress.

Governor, Mr Om Prakash Mathur, while addressing the gathering, called upon the people of Sikkim to work collectively towards making the state cleaner, greener, more prosperous and a model for the nation.

Welcoming the Vice President of India and the Union Minister, the Governor extended Statehood Day greetings to all Sikkimese residing within the country and abroad. Referring to Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi’s recent visit during the golden jubilee celebrations, he said the Prime Minister had described Sikkim as the “Paradise of the North East” and praised the state for reflecting the spirit of “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.” He stated that such appreciation had become a matter of pride and inspiration for the people of Sikkim.

The Governor remarked that as Sikkim entered its 51st year of statehood, the state was stepping into a new phase of youthful energy and development. He urged every citizen to contribute towards making villages, localities and public spaces cleaner, greener and more beautiful.

He further stated that both the Central Government and the Ministry of DoNER remained committed to supporting Sikkim’s development initiatives and assured continued assistance for infrastructure, tourism and connectivity projects.

Highlighting the state’s strategic importance, the Governor referred to tourism projects under the battlefield tourism initiative at Chola, Doklam and Nathula and stated that these projects would strengthen tourism and economic opportunities in the region. He also praised the state’s Orchidarium and noted that Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Modi had highly appreciated Sikkim’s orchid conservation efforts during his recent visit.

Expressing confidence in the future growth of tourism in the state, the Governor urged citizens and stakeholders to prepare for a significant rise in tourist arrivals and continue welcoming visitors with warmth and hospitality. He also lauded the resilience and patriotism of people residing in high-altitude border areas and stated that their courage and dedication strengthened the spirit of both Sikkim and the nation.

Chief Minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang, in his address, paid tribute to Sikkim’s founding leaders, highlighted the state’s developmental achievements and reaffirmed Sikkim’s commitment towards national unity and the vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047.”

Paying homage to the first Chief Minister of Sikkim, late Kazi Lhendup Dorjee, who was posthumously conferred the Padma Vibhushan, the Chief Minister stated that his contributions towards strengthening democracy, social justice and public welfare in Sikkim would always be remembered with pride and honour.

Welcoming the Vice President of India, the Chief Minister described his presence at the Statehood Day celebration as a matter of pride for the people of Sikkim. He noted that despite adverse weather conditions, the Vice President travelled to the state by road during his first visit to Sikkim, making the occasion historically significant. He also welcomed Union Minister Mr Jyotiraditya Scindia and appreciated his dedication towards nation-building.

Reflecting on Sikkim’s journey as the 22nd state of India, the Chief Minister stated that the state had made remarkable progress over the past five decades in sectors such as education, healthcare, tourism, organic farming, environmental conservation and infrastructure, emerging as a model state for the country.

Recalling Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi’s recent visit during the golden jubilee celebrations, he stated that the Prime Minister had described Sikkim as “Purva ka Swarg” or the “Paradise of the East” while appreciating the state’s achievements in sustainable development, cleanliness and biodiversity conservation.

The Chief Minister further stated that Sikkim’s progress had been built upon unity, discipline, hard work and public participation. Reaffirming the state’s commitment towards the vision of “Vikshit Bharat 2047,” he said that Team Sikkim would continue working with dedication under the leadership of the Prime Minister towards building a developed India.

Concluding his address, the Chief Minister thanked the Governor, legislators, officials, security personnel and the people of Sikkim for their continued support and participation in making the 51st Statehood Day celebrations a grand success.

Thereafter, the Vice President of India and Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Mr Jyotiraditya M. Scindia were presented with a Silver Statue of Buddha and Guru Padmasambhava, a commemorative Silver Coin and a Thangka.

The programme also witnessed the virtual release, launch, foundation stone laying, and inauguration of various projects, including:

I. Foundation Stone Laying of Upgradation of the Rimbi–Yuksam Road under the North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS–Roads) in Gyalshing District.

Protective Works and Bridge along the NH-10 (Mayfair Fatak) to IBP–Adampool–Banjhakri Falls corridor.

Construction of Bridge over Rongrong Khola at Assam Lingzey–Pakyong Road.

Construction of Steel Bridge over Rangpo Khola under NESIDS (Roads) at Yangang, Namchi District.

II. Inaugurations:

The projects inaugurated include:

Remodelling and Upgradation of Burtuk Heliport, Gangtok.

Tourism Infrastructure as Support Facility for Passenger Ropeway Project at Upper Dhappar, Namchi.

Science Block at Kamrang Government Degree College, Namchi.

Industrial Training Institute (ITI) at Aritar, Pakyong.

III. Launches:

Sikkim Excise Management System (SEMS)

Empowering Organic Growth: A proposal for ICS strengthening Market Outreach and Trade Facilitation under NESIDS-OTRI.

IV. Release:

Release of Book “Revitalisation of Gangtok’s Historic Core: Concept Plan” by Urban Development Department.

Sikkim Rise- Realising Ideas, Shaping Entrepreneurship by Commerce & Industries Department.

The programme also featured a series of cultural presentations, including:

 Broadway Show by the artists of Culture Department

Screening of documentary film on Sikkim by IPR Department

Singing of Song (Jaha Bagcha Teesta Rangit) by the artists of Culture Department.

Earlier, the welcome address was delivered by Chief Secretary, Mr R Telang, who also read the letter sent by Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Modi, congratulating Sikkim on it’s Statehood Day.

Also present were Speaker, SLA, Deputy Speaker, SLA, Council of Ministers, MLAs, Advisors, Mayor, GMC, Deputy Mayor, GMC, Adakshyas, Upa-Adakshyas, Chairpersons, OSDs, Councillors, Cabinet Secretary cum Chief Administrator, Chief Secretary, DGP, Additional Chief Secretary’s, HODs, Senior Government Officers and other dignitaries.

New Delhi, May 18 (BNP): Young batting sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi has scripted history in the ongoing season of the Indian Premier League by registering the highest number of sixes hit by an Indian batter in a single edition of the tournament.

The explosive batter achieved the landmark through a string of power-packed performances, showcasing fearless stroke play and remarkable consistency throughout the season. His aggressive batting approach and ability to clear the boundary with ease have made him one of the standout performers of the IPL campaign.

Suryavanshi’s record-breaking feat underlines the rise of a new generation of Indian T20 batters who are redefining attacking cricket. His six-hitting prowess has not only entertained fans but also played a vital role in strengthening his team’s performances in key matches.

Cricket experts and former players have hailed the youngster’s achievement as a major milestone, noting that surpassing previous Indian records for sixes in a single IPL season reflects both his confidence and maturity at the highest level of franchise cricket.

The milestone further cements Suryavanshi’s growing reputation as one of India’s brightest emerging talents in the shortest format of the game.

Geneva/Kinshasa/Kampala, May 18 (BNP): The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and neighbouring Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) following a sharp rise in suspected infections and deaths.

According to health authorities, more than 300 suspected Ebola cases and at least 88 deaths have been reported, prompting fears of wider regional transmission. The DRC accounts for nearly all reported infections, while two suspected cases have been identified in neighbouring Uganda, raising concerns over cross-border spread.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that while the outbreak currently does not meet the criteria of a pandemic, the risk of transmission to neighbouring countries remains high, requiring urgent international coordination and preparedness.

Officials confirmed that the outbreak has been linked to the rare Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD) strain of Ebola, for which no approved vaccines or specific treatments are currently available. Though both Congo and Uganda have experienced multiple Ebola outbreaks in the past, this marks only the third documented outbreak involving the Bundibugyo strain.

The WHO warned that the actual scale of infections could be significantly larger due to a high positivity rate among tested samples and the increasing number of suspected cases being reported. Emergency containment efforts, including surveillance, contact tracing, screening, and isolation measures, have been intensified in affected areas to curb further spread of the deadly virus.

Global health agencies have urged neighbouring nations to strengthen preparedness and public health monitoring as authorities continue efforts to contain the outbreak and prevent a broader health crisis.