Category: News

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.

Bhubaneswar, May 18 (BNP): After witnessing an unprecedented rush and panic buying over the past week, petrol pumps across Odisha wore a deserted look on Sunday as fuel demand dropped sharply following the restoration of regular stock supply.

Fuel stations in the Twin City of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, along with several other towns, reported unusually low customer turnout after days of long queues triggered by rumours of a possible fuel shortage. Many pumps that had temporarily run dry due to panic-driven demand were seen operating normally, with staff waiting idly for customers.

Petrol dealers said panic buying, amplified by television reports and viral social media posts, had pushed fuel demand far beyond normal levels, disrupting routine tanker delivery cycles and causing temporary shortages at several outlets. However, the situation stabilised after authorities and dealers assured uninterrupted fuel availability.

Officials of petrol pump associations said a large section of regular customers, who typically purchase fuel in small quantities, had already filled their tanks during the rush, leading to a sharp decline in footfall now. As a result, dealers expect reduced demand to continue for the next few days until fuel consumption returns to normal patterns.

According to dealers, major petrol pumps in Odisha recorded sales significantly below average on Sunday, with some outlets witnessing nearly a 60–70 per cent drop compared to normal daily business.

General Secretary of the All India Utkal Petroleum Dealers’ Association and owner of a fuel station in Bhubaneswar, Sanjay Lath, said the panic had eased after people realised there was no disruption in supply. He noted that fuel sales had dropped considerably as consumers who stocked up earlier are unlikely to revisit pumps immediately.

With supply chains functioning normally and adequate stock available, dealers expressed confidence that the fuel distribution system across the state has returned to stability.

 Hyderabad’s Agri entrepreneur, who created new export categories for India honoured by UAS Bengaluru

Hyderabad, May 16, 2026: In a rare and significant recognition, the University of Agricultural Sciences Bangalore conferred an Honorary Doctorate on its former student, Hyderabad-based agripreneur Dr GVK Naidu, Founder and Managing Director of Sam Agritech, during its 60th Convocation Ceremony.

UAS is India’s premier agricultural university and among the country’s oldest institutions dedicated to agricultural education, research and extension. Thaawarchand Gehlot, Governor and Chancellor of the University of Agricultural Sciences, presided over the function and formally presented the Doctorate.

 

The honour is considered exceptional, as agricultural universities seldom confer honorary doctorates upon their own alumni. It recognises Dr Naidu’s pioneering contribution to India’s fresh produce export sector and his role in transforming agricultural innovation into globally competitive business models.

Responding to the recognition, Dr Naidu said, “I never imagined that the university where I once studied would one day honour me with a doctorate. This recognition belongs to the farmers, employees, and partners who have been part of this journey.”

Founded in 1996, Sam Agritech has emerged as one of India’s leading integrated exporters of fresh and value-added produce. The company has played a key role in developing new export categories from India, including fresh pomegranate arils, fresh-cut coconut chunks, fresh figs, dried arils, and ready-to-eat fruit segments.

In recent years, the company has also diversified into high-value crops such as Hass avocado cultivation, blueberry initiatives, and almond processing, aligning with evolving global demand trends and expanding India’s horticulture footprint.

Sam Agritech operates a fully integrated farm-to-market ecosystem across South India, including nurseries, captive farms, high-care processing facilities, and international marketing networks. It is also recognised for establishing multi-locational high-care processing units near cultivation zones, enhancing product freshness and food safety.

The company adheres to global standards, including HACCP, ISO, Global GAP, BRC, US FDA, SMETA, and Fair Trade certifications, and has made a notable social impact, with over 90 per cent of its workforce comprising women in rural processing operations.

Industry observers describe the honour as recognition of the growing importance of value addition, innovation, and market-linked agriculture in India’s agri sector.-

New Delhi, May 16 (BNP): Gig workers associated with app-based transport and delivery platforms have announced a five-hour nationwide shutdown demanding better wages, social security benefits and a minimum payment of Rs 20 per kilometre.

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The protest call, supported by several gig workers’ unions and associations, is expected to affect app-based cab services, food delivery operations and logistics services in major cities across the country.

Worker representatives alleged that rising fuel prices, increasing maintenance expenses and reduced incentive structures have significantly impacted their earnings in recent months. They claimed that despite rising operational costs, the per-trip payments offered by aggregator platforms remain inadequate.

Among the key demands raised by the workers are a guaranteed minimum fare of Rs 20 per kilometre, fuel compensation, insurance coverage, social security benefits and transparent payment policies.

Union leaders said the temporary shutdown is intended to draw attention to the financial challenges faced by lakhs of gig workers who depend on app-based services for their livelihood. They also urged the central and state governments to frame comprehensive welfare policies for workers in the gig economy sector.

Meanwhile, commuters and customers in several metropolitan cities may face inconvenience during the protest period due to reduced availability of ride-hailing and delivery services.

Several aggregator companies are yet to issue detailed responses regarding the shutdown call and the demands raised by workers.

Mumbai, May 15 (BNP): The Indian Rupee plunged to a historic low on Friday, breaching the 96-mark for the first time against the US Dollar amid rising crude oil prices, a stronger American currency and escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia.

The domestic currency touched an all-time low of 96.14 during intra-day trade in the interbank foreign exchange market, falling 50 paise from its previous close of 95.64 on Thursday. The rupee had opened at 95.86 before slipping further during the trading session.

Forex traders attributed the sharp decline to growing global uncertainty, particularly the intensifying Iran-Israel conflict and concerns over possible disruptions in crude oil supply through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.

Market experts said investors are increasingly moving towards the US Dollar as a safe-haven asset amid fears of geopolitical instability and volatile energy prices. Rising crude oil costs have also added pressure on the Indian currency, as India remains heavily dependent on oil imports.

According to analysts, the rupee has emerged as one of the worst-performing Asian currencies this year, registering a decline of over six per cent so far in 2026.

Financial observers warned that a prolonged weakness in the rupee could increase import costs, fuel inflationary pressure and impact domestic fuel prices in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, the Reserve Bank of India is expected to closely monitor the foreign exchange market to maintain stability.

New delhi, May 15 (BNP): Fuel prices across India witnessed a sharp increase on Friday, with petrol and diesel rates rising by up to ₹3 per litre amid escalating global crude oil prices and ongoing supply concerns linked to the prolonged West Asia conflict.

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The latest revision has pushed petrol prices in Delhi to ₹97.77 per litre, while diesel now costs ₹90.67 per litre. Similar increases were reported in several major cities across the country.

Officials said the hike was necessitated by sustained pressure on international energy markets, where crude oil prices have remained volatile due to geopolitical tensions and disruptions in global supply chains. State-run Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have reportedly been facing heavy financial strain as import costs continue to rise.

The increase is expected to impact transportation expenses, logistics operations, and household budgets, potentially contributing to inflationary pressure in the coming weeks. Market experts believe the revision could also lead to a rise in prices of essential commodities due to higher freight costs.

The government maintained that despite the increase, India has continued to shield consumers from the full burden of global fuel price spikes by absorbing a significant portion of the costs over recent months.

The development has triggered political reactions and public concern, with opposition parties criticising the move and warning of its impact on common citizens already dealing with rising living expenses.