Torrential rain hit Sri Lanka's capital on Tuesday as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-imd-issues-yellow-warning-in-odisha-predicting-heavy-rainfall-214909">cyclone Fani heads toward the coast of eastern India</a> and is expected to intensify into an "extremely severe" storm.

Fani is generating maximum sustained winds of 85 knots, or about 157 kph, according to a storm advisory from the US Navy's Joint Typhoon Warning Center.

The storm is currently in the Bay of Bengal about 690 kilometres east-southeast of Chennai and moved north-northwest at a speed of 16 km per hour over the past six hours, the India Meteorological Office said.

The office has forecast heavy rainfall in Odisha and in some parts of the state of Andhra Pradesh in the next few days with state government asking officials to be alert and evacuate people if the storm intensifies and makes landfall.

Meanwhile, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) &nbsp;issued a 'yellow warning' for Odisha coast predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places such as Boudh, Kalahandi, Sambalpur, Deogarh, and Sundargarh.

Torrential rain hit Sri Lanka's capital on Tuesday as cyclone Fani heads toward the coast of eastern India and is expected to intensify into an "extremely severe" storm.

Torrential rain hit Sri Lanka's capital on Tuesday as cyclone Fani heads toward the coast of eastern India and is expected to intensify into an "extremely severe" storm. Fani is generating maximum sustained winds of 85 knots, or about 157 kph, according to a storm advisory from the US Navy's Joint Typhoon Warning Center. The storm is currently in the Bay of Bengal about 690 kilometres east-southeast of Chennai and moved north-northwest at a speed of 16 km per hour over the past six hours, the India Meteorological Office said. The office has forecast heavy rainfall in Odisha and in some parts of the state of Andhra Pradesh in the next few days with state government asking officials to be alert and evacuate people if the storm intensifies and makes landfall. Meanwhile, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a 'yellow warning' for Odisha coast predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places such as Boudh, Kalahandi, Sambalpur, Deogarh, and Sundargarh.

Cyclone Fani hits Sri Lanka with heavy rainfall

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday issued a 'yellow warning' for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/navy-coast-guard-ships-ndrf-teams-deployed-along-east-coast-to-deal-with-cyclone-fani-214847">Odisha coast predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall</a> at isolated places such as Boudh, Kalahandi, Sambalpur, Deogarh, and Sundargarh.

"Heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places the districts of&nbsp;&nbsp;Boudh, Kalahandi Sambalpur Deogarh and Sundargarh of Odisha," said the IMD.&nbsp;

As per the disaster management division of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Cyclone Fani is very likely to move northwestwards on till May 1 noon and thereafter recurve north-northeastwards and cross Odisha Coast between Gopalpur and Chandbali. From there, it will move to the south of Puri around May 3 afternoon with maximum sustained wind of speed 175-185 kmph gusting to 205 kmph.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cyclone-fani-intensifies-into-extremely-severe-cyclonic-storm-214886/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Gale wind with speed 150 -160 kmph gusting to 170 is also likely over the districts of Ganjam, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, 110-120 kmph gusting to 130 kmph is also likely over the districts of&nbsp;&nbsp;Gajapati, Khurda, Cuttack, Jajpur, Bhadrak, Balasore, 80-90 kmph over the districts of Nayagarh, Angul, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Dhenkanal and squally wind speed 30-40 kmph gust to 50 kmph over the rest districts of Odisha&nbsp;&nbsp;by the evening of May 3, the IMD said.&nbsp;

The sea conditions are very likely to be rough to very rough along and off Odisha Coast on May 2 and become high to phenomenal by May 4.

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into deep sea areas of northwest and adjoining West-central Bay of Bengal along and off Odisha coast from May 2 to May 4.&nbsp;

The expected damage due to Cyclone Fani includes -- extensive damage to all types of kutcha houses, extensive uprooting of communication and power poles, disruption of rail and road link at several places, extensive damage to standing crops, plantations, orchards, blowing down of Palm and coconut trees, uprooting of large bushy trees and large boats and ships may get torn from their moorings.

In order to prevent such damage, IMD has advised total suspension of fishing operations, extensive evacuation from coastal areas, diversion or suspension of rail and road traffic, no movement in motor boats and small ships and people in affected areas to remain indoors.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday issued a 'yellow warning' for Odisha coast predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places such as Boudh, Kalahandi, Sambalpur, Deogarh, and Sundargarh.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday issued a 'yellow warning' for Odisha coast predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places such as Boudh, Kalahandi, Sambalpur, Deogarh, and Sundargarh. "Heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places the districts of Boudh, Kalahandi Sambalpur Deogarh and Sundargarh of Odisha," said the IMD. As per the disaster management division of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Cyclone Fani is very likely to move northwestwards on till May 1 noon and thereafter recurve north-northeastwards and cross Odisha Coast between Gopalpur and Chandbali. From there, it will move to the south of Puri around May 3 afternoon with maximum sustained wind of speed 175-185 kmph gusting to 205 kmph. Gale wind with speed 150 -160 kmph gusting to 170 is also likely over the districts of Ganjam, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, 110-120 kmph gusting to 130 kmph is also likely over the districts of Gajapati, Khurda, Cuttack, Jajpur, Bhadrak, Balasore, 80-90 kmph over the districts of Nayagarh, Angul, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Dhenkanal and squally wind speed 30-40 kmph gust to 50 kmph over the rest districts of Odisha by the evening of May 3, the IMD said. The sea conditions are very likely to be rough to very rough along and off Odisha Coast on May 2 and become high to phenomenal by May 4. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into deep sea areas of northwest and adjoining West-central Bay of Bengal along and off Odisha coast from May 2 to May 4. The expected damage due to Cyclone Fani includes -- extensive damage to all types of kutcha houses, extensive uprooting of communication and power poles, disruption of rail and road link at several places, extensive damage to standing crops, plantations, orchards, blowing down of Palm and coconut trees, uprooting of large bushy trees and large boats and ships may get torn from their moorings. In order to prevent such damage, IMD has advised total suspension of fishing operations, extensive evacuation from coastal areas, diversion or suspension of rail and road traffic, no movement in motor boats and small ships and people in affected areas to remain indoors.

Cyclone Fani: IMD issues 'yellow warning' in Odisha predicting heavy rainfall

Defence forces are on high alert, educational institutions ordered shut and thousands in coastal districts being evacuated as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-imd-issues-yellow-warning-in-odisha-predicting-heavy-rainfall-214909">Odisha </a>braces for cyclone 'Fani', the extremely severe cyclonic storm that is likely to make landfall near Puri on Friday, officials said.

According to the latest forecast by the Joint Typhoon Warning Centre (JWTC), Fani, the most severe cyclonic storm since the super cyclone of 1999 that claimed close to 10,000 lives and devastated large parts of Odisha, is expected to cross the holy town of Jagannath Puri May 3 afternoon, packing winds up to 175 KMPH before the landfall.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-government-takes-all-precautionary-measures-for-cyclone-fani-214932">West Bengal on high alert as Cyclone Fani likely to hit coastal areas</a>

The storm over the Bay of Bengal centred about 660 km south-southwest of Puri was ominously rolling towards the Odisha coast at a speed of 14 KM per hour.

Official sources said Navy, Indian Air Force and Coast Guard have been put on high alert to meet any eventuality. Personnel of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) and fire service have been deployed in vulnerable areas to assist the civil administration.

The collectors of coastal and southern districts have been asked to complete the evacuation exercise from low lying areas by Thursday evening keeping in mind the forecast of massive tides that could surge up to 1.5 metres during the landfall, Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) B P Sethi said.

Torrential rains are likely in Ganjam, Puri, Khurda, Cuttack and Jagatsinghpur districts with winds blasting at speeds ranging from 175 to 200 KM an hour.

Leave of all doctors and health service officials have been cancelled till May 15, the state's chief secretary A P Padhi said.

State police chief R P Sharma said leave of all police personnel have also been cancelled and those on leave have been asked to immediately report for duty.

IAS officers have been put in charge of relief, rescue and restoration operations in vulnerable districts.

Sharma said Superintendents of Police have been asked to constantly monitor the situation and reach relief to stricken people.

The 880 cyclone shelters in coastal and southern districts have been kept ready to accommodate the evacuees, Sethi said, adding that in districts like Gajapati and Rayagada, where such facilities do not exist, they will be housed in schools and Anganwadi centres.

The Election Commission has, meanwhile, relaxed the provisions of the model code of conduct in 11 coastal districts to facilitate relief and rescue operations, state's chief electoral officer Surendra Kumar said.

These districts--Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Gajapati, Ganjam, Khordha, Cuttack and Jajpur--are likely to bear the brunt of the cyclone, which is also likely to impact Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik had on Tuesday urged the Election Commission to withdraw the model code from all coastal districts to help the state government handle the situation in the aftermath of storm.

Surendra Kumar said Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in Jagatsinghpur and Gajapati districts will be shifted to safer places in the presence of representatives of all political parties. The exercise will be videographed to maintain transparency.

The East Coast Railway has cancelled 74 trains in view of the cyclone, an ECoR official said.

Tourists have been asked to leave Puri by Thursday evening, while Nandankanan Zoological Park authorities in Bhubaneswar have announced it will remain closed from May 2 to May 4.

The higher education department has directed all state universities and colleges in Ganjam, Gajapati, Puri, Khurda, Nayagarh, Cuttack, Jajpur, Bhadrak, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Balasore and Mayurbhanj districts to remain closed for three days from May 2.

Oil marketing companies have been asked to store adequate quantities of kerosene, petrol and diesel so rescue and relief efforts are not adversely affected.

"As the chief minister has instructed us to ensure zero casualty, our priority is to ensure that no one dies in the calamity," the state's chief secretary said, claiming the government apparatus was in a state of readiness to meet the challenge.

India Meteorological Department (IMD) sources said Fani was the first cyclonic storm of such severity to have formed in April in India's oceanic neighbourhood in 43 years.

Formation of such cyclonic storm during summer is very rare as the phenomenon is generally witnessed after monsoon in September-November.

Former Director of the Regional Meteorological Centre, Bhubaneswar, Sarat Sahu said Odisha witnessed cyclonic storms during summer in 1893, 1914, 1917, 1982 and 1989, but these brought little trouble for the state as they either fizzled out or changed course towards West Bengal.

The cyclone has formed due to warming of the Bay of Bengal basin.

"With global warming, we have to be prepared for such occurrences," Sahu said.&nbsp;

Defence forces are on high alert, educational institutions ordered shut and thousands in coastal districts being evacuated as Odisha braces for cyclone 'Fani', the extremely severe cyclonic storm that is likely to make landfall near Puri on Friday, officials said.

Defence forces are on high alert, educational institutions ordered shut and thousands in coastal districts being evacuated as Odisha braces for cyclone 'Fani', the extremely severe cyclonic storm that is likely to make landfall near Puri on Friday, officials said. According to the latest forecast by the Joint Typhoon Warning Centre (JWTC), Fani, the most severe cyclonic storm since the super cyclone of 1999 that claimed close to 10,000 lives and devastated large parts of Odisha, is expected to cross the holy town of Jagannath Puri May 3 afternoon, packing winds up to 175 KMPH before the landfall. Also read: West Bengal on high alert as Cyclone Fani likely to hit coastal areas The storm over the Bay of Bengal centred about 660 km south-southwest of Puri was ominously rolling towards the Odisha coast at a speed of 14 KM per hour. Official sources said Navy, Indian Air Force and Coast Guard have been put on high alert to meet any eventuality. Personnel of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) and fire service have been deployed in vulnerable areas to assist the civil administration. The collectors of coastal and southern districts have been asked to complete the evacuation exercise from low lying areas by Thursday evening keeping in mind the forecast of massive tides that could surge up to 1.5 metres during the landfall, Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) B P Sethi said. Torrential rains are likely in Ganjam, Puri, Khurda, Cuttack and Jagatsinghpur districts with winds blasting at speeds ranging from 175 to 200 KM an hour. Leave of all doctors and health service officials have been cancelled till May 15, the state's chief secretary A P Padhi said. State police chief R P Sharma said leave of all police personnel have also been cancelled and those on leave have been asked to immediately report for duty. IAS officers have been put in charge of relief, rescue and restoration operations in vulnerable districts. Sharma said Superintendents of Police have been asked to constantly monitor the situation and reach relief to stricken people. The 880 cyclone shelters in coastal and southern districts have been kept ready to accommodate the evacuees, Sethi said, adding that in districts like Gajapati and Rayagada, where such facilities do not exist, they will be housed in schools and Anganwadi centres. The Election Commission has, meanwhile, relaxed the provisions of the model code of conduct in 11 coastal districts to facilitate relief and rescue operations, state's chief electoral officer Surendra Kumar said. These districts--Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Gajapati, Ganjam, Khordha, Cuttack and Jajpur--are likely to bear the brunt of the cyclone, which is also likely to impact Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik had on Tuesday urged the Election Commission to withdraw the model code from all coastal districts to help the state government handle the situation in the aftermath of storm. Surendra Kumar said Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in Jagatsinghpur and Gajapati districts will be shifted to safer places in the presence of representatives of all political parties. The exercise will be videographed to maintain transparency. The East Coast Railway has cancelled 74 trains in view of the cyclone, an ECoR official said. Tourists have been asked to leave Puri by Thursday evening, while Nandankanan Zoological Park authorities in Bhubaneswar have announced it will remain closed from May 2 to May 4. The higher education department has directed all state universities and colleges in Ganjam, Gajapati, Puri, Khurda, Nayagarh, Cuttack, Jajpur, Bhadrak, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Balasore and Mayurbhanj districts to remain closed for three days from May 2. Oil marketing companies have been asked to store adequate quantities of kerosene, petrol and diesel so rescue and relief efforts are not adversely affected. "As the chief minister has instructed us to ensure zero casualty, our priority is to ensure that no one dies in the calamity," the state's chief secretary said, claiming the government apparatus was in a state of readiness to meet the challenge. India Meteorological Department (IMD) sources said Fani was the first cyclonic storm of such severity to have formed in April in India's oceanic neighbourhood in 43 years. Formation of such cyclonic storm during summer is very rare as the phenomenon is generally witnessed after monsoon in September-November. Former Director of the Regional Meteorological Centre, Bhubaneswar, Sarat Sahu said Odisha witnessed cyclonic storms during summer in 1893, 1914, 1917, 1982 and 1989, but these brought little trouble for the state as they either fizzled out or changed course towards West Bengal. The cyclone has formed due to warming of the Bay of Bengal basin. "With global warming, we have to be prepared for such occurrences," Sahu said.

Armed forces on alert as Odisha braces for cyclonic storm 'Fani'

Severe cyclonic storm 'Fani' itensified into a very severe cyclonic storm on April 30, and is likely hit the Odisha coast between Puri and Kendrapara by May 3. Watch video to know more.

Cyclone 'Fani' likely to hit Odisha coast by May 3: Sources

Cyclone 'Fani' intensified into a 'severe cyclonic storm' Monday evening and is headed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/odisha-on-high-alert-as-cyclone-fani-progresses-214601">towards the Odisha coast</a>, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.&nbsp;

It could take a shape of an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-forces-iaf-to-postpone-brahmos-testfiring-214565">'extremely severe cyclone'</a> by Wednesday, prompting the government to put the National Disaster Response Force and the Indian Coast Guard on high alert, officials said.

In its 9 pm bulletin, the Cyclone Warning Division of the IMD said the storm currently lays about 620 km east-northeast of the Trincomalee in Sri Lanka, 770 km east-southeast of Chennai and 900 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QENero3ITPI" width="560"></iframe>

"The Cyclonic storm 'Fani' (pronounced as Foni) over Southeast Bay of Bengal and neighbourhood moved north-northwestwards with a speed of about 16 kilometres per hour in last six hours, intensified into a severe cyclonic storm.&nbsp;

"It is very likely to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm during next 24 hours and into an extremely severe cyclonic storm during subsequent 24 hours. It is very likely to move northwestwards till May 1 evening and thereafter recurve north-northeastwards towards the Odisha coast," the bulletin said.

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Severe Cyclonic ‘FANI’ is very likely to intensify into a Very Severe Cyclonic during next 12 hrs &amp; into an Extremely Severe Cyclonic during subsequent 24 hrs. To move northwestwards till 01st May evening and thereafter recurve north-northeastwards towards Odisha Coast. <a href="https://t.co/8JrTkkiH6b">pic.twitter.com/8JrTkkiH6b</a>
— India Met. Dept. (@Indiametdept) <a href="https://twitter.com/Indiametdept/status/1122965181342961664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC), the country's top body to deal with emergency situation, Monday took stock of the situation arising out of cyclone 'Fani' and assured the state governments concerned of all assistance from the central government to face the storm.

The NDRF and the Indian Coast Guard have been put on high alert and the fishermen have been asked not to venture into the sea as cyclone 'Fani' is expected to intensify into a 'very severe storm' by Tuesday, the Home Ministry said.

The wind speed of a cyclonic storm is 80-90 kilometres per hour with wind gusting up to 100 kmph. In case of an 'extremely severe cyclonic storm', the wind speed goes up to 170-180 kmph and could gain the speed of 195 kmph.&nbsp;

Light to moderate rainfall at a few places is very likely over north coastal Andhra Pradesh and south coastal Odisha on Thursday.

The precipitation is likely to increase intensity with 'heavy to very heavy rainfall' at isolated places over coastal Odisha and adjoining districts of north coastal Andhra Pradesh from Thursday.

Light to moderate rainfall is expected at many places. Downpour at isolated places is also very likely to start over coastal districts of West Bengal from Friday, the IMD said.

The NCMC met here under the chairmanship of Cabinet Secretary P K Sinha and took stock of the situation. Chief secretaries, principal secretaries of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal attended the meeting through video conference.&nbsp;

Senior officers from the central ministries and agencies concerned also attended the meeting.

The NDRF and the Indian Coast Guard are coordinating with the state governments. The home ministry has assured the state governments to release in advance the first instalment of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF), as per their request, a Home Ministry statement said.

During the meeting, officers of all the state governments concerned confirmed their full preparedness to deal with any emerging situation arising out of the cyclonic storm.&nbsp;

Further, the state government highlighted that there is a seasonal ban on fishing in sea up to June 14 due to breeding season.

The state governments were advised to effectively enforce this ban.

According to the IMD, the cyclone's landfall over Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh is ruled out. However, the possibility of landfall in Odisha is under continuous watch. 
Regular warnings have been issued since April 25 to fishermen not to venture into the sea and asking those at sea to return to the coast.&nbsp;

The IMD has been issuing three hourly bulletins with latest forecast to all the states concerned. The Home Ministry is also in continuous touch with the state governments and the central agencies concerned, the statement said.

The NCMC meeting followed directions from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is closely monitoring the situation. The NCMC will meet again Tuesday to take stock of the situation.

Cyclone 'Fani' intensified into a 'severe cyclonic storm' Monday evening and is headed towards the Odisha coast, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said. It could take a shape of an 'extremely severe cyclone' by Wednesday, prompting the government to put the National Disaster Response Force and the Indian Coast Guard on high alert, officials said.

Cyclone 'Fani' intensified into a 'severe cyclonic storm' Monday evening and is headed towards the Odisha coast, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said. It could take a shape of an 'extremely severe cyclone' by Wednesday, prompting the government to put the National Disaster Response Force and the Indian Coast Guard on high alert, officials said. In its 9 pm bulletin, the Cyclone Warning Division of the IMD said the storm currently lays about 620 km east-northeast of the Trincomalee in Sri Lanka, 770 km east-southeast of Chennai and 900 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam. "The Cyclonic storm 'Fani' (pronounced as Foni) over Southeast Bay of Bengal and neighbourhood moved north-northwestwards with a speed of about 16 kilometres per hour in last six hours, intensified into a severe cyclonic storm. "It is very likely to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm during next 24 hours and into an extremely severe cyclonic storm during subsequent 24 hours. It is very likely to move northwestwards till May 1 evening and thereafter recurve north-northeastwards towards the Odisha coast," the bulletin said. Severe Cyclonic ‘FANI’ is very likely to intensify into a Very Severe Cyclonic during next 12 hrs & into an Extremely Severe Cyclonic during subsequent 24 hrs. To move northwestwards till 01st May evening and thereafter recurve north-northeastwards towards Odisha Coast. pic.twitter.com/8JrTkkiH6b — India Met. Dept. (@Indiametdept) April 29, 2019 × The National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC), the country's top body to deal with emergency situation, Monday took stock of the situation arising out of cyclone 'Fani' and assured the state governments concerned of all assistance from the central government to face the storm. The NDRF and the Indian Coast Guard have been put on high alert and the fishermen have been asked not to venture into the sea as cyclone 'Fani' is expected to intensify into a 'very severe storm' by Tuesday, the Home Ministry said. The wind speed of a cyclonic storm is 80-90 kilometres per hour with wind gusting up to 100 kmph. In case of an 'extremely severe cyclonic storm', the wind speed goes up to 170-180 kmph and could gain the speed of 195 kmph. Light to moderate rainfall at a few places is very likely over north coastal Andhra Pradesh and south coastal Odisha on Thursday. The precipitation is likely to increase intensity with 'heavy to very heavy rainfall' at isolated places over coastal Odisha and adjoining districts of north coastal Andhra Pradesh from Thursday. Light to moderate rainfall is expected at many places. Downpour at isolated places is also very likely to start over coastal districts of West Bengal from Friday, the IMD said. The NCMC met here under the chairmanship of Cabinet Secretary P K Sinha and took stock of the situation. Chief secretaries, principal secretaries of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal attended the meeting through video conference. Senior officers from the central ministries and agencies concerned also attended the meeting. The NDRF and the Indian Coast Guard are coordinating with the state governments. The home ministry has assured the state governments to release in advance the first instalment of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF), as per their request, a Home Ministry statement said. During the meeting, officers of all the state governments concerned confirmed their full preparedness to deal with any emerging situation arising out of the cyclonic storm. Further, the state government highlighted that there is a seasonal ban on fishing in sea up to June 14 due to breeding season. The state governments were advised to effectively enforce this ban. According to the IMD, the cyclone's landfall over Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh is ruled out. However, the possibility of landfall in Odisha is under continuous watch. Regular warnings have been issued since April 25 to fishermen not to venture into the sea and asking those at sea to return to the coast. The IMD has been issuing three hourly bulletins with latest forecast to all the states concerned. The Home Ministry is also in continuous touch with the state governments and the central agencies concerned, the statement said. The NCMC meeting followed directions from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is closely monitoring the situation. The NCMC will meet again Tuesday to take stock of the situation.

Cyclone Fani has intensified into 'severe cyclonic storm': IMD

Naveen Patnaik, the Chief Minister of Odisha, on Tuesday approached the Election Commission of India (ECI) asking to postpone the polls in Patkura assembly constituency if <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-has-intensified-into-severe-cyclonic-storm-imd-214625">Cyclone Fani</a> hits the state.

"I am in Delhi to meet the Election Commission of India regarding the postponement of the by-elections of Patkura assembly seat in case the cyclone hits Odisha," Patnaik told ANI.

The Chief Minister arrived in the national capital to meet Sunil Arora, the Chief Election Commissioner and other officials of the poll body to discuss his concerns.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclone Fani intensified into a 'severe cyclonic storm'&nbsp;on Monday evening and is headed towards the Odisha coast, where it may make landfall.

Earlier in the day, Bishnupada Sethi, Special Relief Commissioner of Odisha said, "The IMD has predicted the cyclone is likely to hit Odisha coast in Puri district on May 3 late evening. For search and rescue operations, we have alerted 20 units of Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force and 12 units of National Disaster Response Force are ready."

District collectors of Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri, Kendrapada, Bhadrak, Jagatsinghpur, Jajpur, Balasore, Cuttack, Mayurbhanj, Khurda have been alerted and they have been taking stock of the situation.&nbsp;

Naveen Patnaik, the Chief Minister of Odisha, on Tuesday approached the Election Commission of India (ECI) asking to postpone the polls in Patkura assembly constituency if Cyclone Fani hits the state.

Naveen Patnaik, the Chief Minister of Odisha, on Tuesday approached the Election Commission of India (ECI) asking to postpone the polls in Patkura assembly constituency if Cyclone Fani hits the state. "I am in Delhi to meet the Election Commission of India regarding the postponement of the by-elections of Patkura assembly seat in case the cyclone hits Odisha," Patnaik told ANI. The Chief Minister arrived in the national capital to meet Sunil Arora, the Chief Election Commissioner and other officials of the poll body to discuss his concerns. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclone Fani intensified into a 'severe cyclonic storm' on Monday evening and is headed towards the Odisha coast, where it may make landfall. Earlier in the day, Bishnupada Sethi, Special Relief Commissioner of Odisha said, "The IMD has predicted the cyclone is likely to hit Odisha coast in Puri district on May 3 late evening. For search and rescue operations, we have alerted 20 units of Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force and 12 units of National Disaster Response Force are ready." District collectors of Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri, Kendrapada, Bhadrak, Jagatsinghpur, Jajpur, Balasore, Cuttack, Mayurbhanj, Khurda have been alerted and they have been taking stock of the situation.

Cyclone Fani to hit Puri on Friday; Odisha CM wants polls to be postponed

With the Centre issuing advisory on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-to-intensify-into-very-severe-storm-no-direct-impact-for-tamil-nadu-214525">Cyclone Fani progressing towards the eastern coast</a>, the Odisha government Monday said it has put the coastal districts on high alert and is prepared to face any eventuality.

The entire administration is on high alert following the IMD report on the cyclone and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has reviewed the situation arising out of it, officials said. 
The IMD report said the cyclone is very likely to move northwestwards till May 1 and thereafter recurve north- northeastward towards Odisha coast.

Cabinet secretary P K Sinha held a video conference with coastal states' chief secretaries and the ministry of home affairs issued two back to back advisories on the impending natural calamity during the day.

As soon as the polling for the fourth and final phase of elections came to an end this evening, Patnaik reviewed the situation and issued a direction to the chief secretary to ensure "zero casualty" in case the cyclone strikes the state.

Patnaik asked the administration to be prepared to evacuate people in case it makes its landfall in the state or there is heavy rainfall in low lying and flood prone areas.

The chief minister also issued a direction to stock adequate food materials in the panchayat level considering the time that the unusual timing of the cyclone.

The coastal district collectors of Ganjam, Khurda, Puri and Kendrapara have meanwhile cancelled the holidays and leaves of government employees as part of the preparedness to face the possible calamity.

"We are preparing a contingency plan to face the situation. We will go for evacuation if required," Puri district collector J P Das said.

In a high-level meeting attended by the top official of Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, NDRF, Odisha Police and all department secretaries, Chief Secretary A P Padhi sought the cooperation of all agencies.

Stating that the IMD has so far not given any definite information regarding possible landfall of the cyclone in the state, Padhi said its forecast shows that the cyclone is likely to pass near the Odisha coast.

"We are leaving no stone unturned and are preparing to face the situation", he said adding the fishermen have been warned not to venture into the sea during the period.

Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) B P Sethi said, "Though the IMD has not issued any information on the possible landfall of Cyclone Fani in the state, we are keeping a watch on the information being issued by international agencies such as the Joint Typhoon Warning Centre."

Sethi said all the 880 cyclone centres besides 20 units of Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force, 12 units of National Disaster Response Force and 335 fire units have been put on alert.

Boats are also kept in readiness for rescue operation if required, he said.

"Even if the cyclone did not make a landfall in the state, its impact may be felt in Odisha as heavy rainfall might occur and wind speed reaches up to 60 kmph," Sethi said.

Meanwhile, IMD sources said that the cyclone lay centred about 840 km east-southeast of Chennai (Tamil Nadu) and 990 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam (Andhra Pradesh).

It is very likely to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm and then into a very severe cyclonic storm, it said.&nbsp;

With the Centre issuing advisory on Cyclone Fani progressing towards the eastern coast, the Odisha government Monday said it has put the coastal districts on high alert and is prepared to face any eventuality.

With the Centre issuing advisory on Cyclone Fani progressing towards the eastern coast, the Odisha government Monday said it has put the coastal districts on high alert and is prepared to face any eventuality. The entire administration is on high alert following the IMD report on the cyclone and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has reviewed the situation arising out of it, officials said. The IMD report said the cyclone is very likely to move northwestwards till May 1 and thereafter recurve north- northeastward towards Odisha coast. Cabinet secretary P K Sinha held a video conference with coastal states' chief secretaries and the ministry of home affairs issued two back to back advisories on the impending natural calamity during the day. As soon as the polling for the fourth and final phase of elections came to an end this evening, Patnaik reviewed the situation and issued a direction to the chief secretary to ensure "zero casualty" in case the cyclone strikes the state. Patnaik asked the administration to be prepared to evacuate people in case it makes its landfall in the state or there is heavy rainfall in low lying and flood prone areas. The chief minister also issued a direction to stock adequate food materials in the panchayat level considering the time that the unusual timing of the cyclone. The coastal district collectors of Ganjam, Khurda, Puri and Kendrapara have meanwhile cancelled the holidays and leaves of government employees as part of the preparedness to face the possible calamity. "We are preparing a contingency plan to face the situation. We will go for evacuation if required," Puri district collector J P Das said. In a high-level meeting attended by the top official of Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, NDRF, Odisha Police and all department secretaries, Chief Secretary A P Padhi sought the cooperation of all agencies. Stating that the IMD has so far not given any definite information regarding possible landfall of the cyclone in the state, Padhi said its forecast shows that the cyclone is likely to pass near the Odisha coast. "We are leaving no stone unturned and are preparing to face the situation", he said adding the fishermen have been warned not to venture into the sea during the period. Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) B P Sethi said, "Though the IMD has not issued any information on the possible landfall of Cyclone Fani in the state, we are keeping a watch on the information being issued by international agencies such as the Joint Typhoon Warning Centre." Sethi said all the 880 cyclone centres besides 20 units of Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force, 12 units of National Disaster Response Force and 335 fire units have been put on alert. Boats are also kept in readiness for rescue operation if required, he said. "Even if the cyclone did not make a landfall in the state, its impact may be felt in Odisha as heavy rainfall might occur and wind speed reaches up to 60 kmph," Sethi said. Meanwhile, IMD sources said that the cyclone lay centred about 840 km east-southeast of Chennai (Tamil Nadu) and 990 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam (Andhra Pradesh). It is very likely to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm and then into a very severe cyclonic storm, it said.

Odisha on high alert as Cyclone Fani progresses

With cyclone Fani likely to move northwestwards and then recurve north-northeastwards, Odisha Government on Sunday asked district collectors and departments concerned to remain alert and take necessary measures in advance.

Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Bishnupada Sethi in a letter to district collectors said although the IMD has not yet issued any warning for Odisha, international agencies like JTWC (Joint Typhoon Warning Centre) and others suggest that it may have some impact on Odisha.

Besides, some of the agencies have even indicated that the system may curve towards the north-east direction after approaching the coast, he said.

Keeping the above in view, the districts are requested to closely watch the situation and keep the administrative machinery alert to face any eventuality, the SRC said.

The district collectors were also asked to check all the cyclone/flood shelters as well as communication systems and ensure that these shelters are in proper condition for use if necessary

The cyclonic storm which now lay centred 1,230 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh, is very likely to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm in next 12 hours and into a very severe cyclonic storm during subsequent 24 hours, IMD said in a bulletin.

It is very likely to move northwestwards till May 1 evening and thereafter recurve north-northeastwards gradually.

Under its impact, light to moderate rainfall is very likely at a few places over north coastal Andhra Pradesh and south coastal Odisha on May 2. It is likely to increase in intensity with heavy rainfall over coastal Odisha from May 3, it said.

As sea condition will be rough, fishermen are advised not to venture into north-west and adjoining west central Bay of Bengal along and off Odisha coast on May 1 and 2.

With cyclone Fani likely to move northwestwards and then recurve north-northeastwards, Odisha Government on Sunday asked district collectors and departments concerned to remain alert and take necessary measures in advance.

With cyclone Fani likely to move northwestwards and then recurve north-northeastwards, Odisha Government on Sunday asked district collectors and departments concerned to remain alert and take necessary measures in advance. Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Bishnupada Sethi in a letter to district collectors said although the IMD has not yet issued any warning for Odisha, international agencies like JTWC (Joint Typhoon Warning Centre) and others suggest that it may have some impact on Odisha. Besides, some of the agencies have even indicated that the system may curve towards the north-east direction after approaching the coast, he said. Keeping the above in view, the districts are requested to closely watch the situation and keep the administrative machinery alert to face any eventuality, the SRC said. The district collectors were also asked to check all the cyclone/flood shelters as well as communication systems and ensure that these shelters are in proper condition for use if necessary The cyclonic storm which now lay centred 1,230 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh, is very likely to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm in next 12 hours and into a very severe cyclonic storm during subsequent 24 hours, IMD said in a bulletin. It is very likely to move northwestwards till May 1 evening and thereafter recurve north-northeastwards gradually. Under its impact, light to moderate rainfall is very likely at a few places over north coastal Andhra Pradesh and south coastal Odisha on May 2. It is likely to increase in intensity with heavy rainfall over coastal Odisha from May 3, it said. As sea condition will be rough, fishermen are advised not to venture into north-west and adjoining west central Bay of Bengal along and off Odisha coast on May 1 and 2.

Cyclone Fani to intensify into 'severe cyclonic storm'; Odisha government asks authorities to remain alert

The State Election Commission in Odisha has recommended re-polling in 12 booths including booth number 62 of Brahmagiri assembly constituency.

In a letter written to the Election Commission of India (ECI), the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Odisha Surendra Kumar said, "We admit that an EVM control unit of Booth number 62 of Brahmagiri assembly constituency was misplaced because of the lapses on the part of the polling officials who received the EVM at strong room."

"We have apprised the Election Commission about the incident and recommended repolling in 12 booths including booth number 62 of Brahmagiri assembly segments, because of the errors during the voting in the third phase" he added.

The voter turnout in the third phase of elections for both assembly and parliamentary constituencies in Odisha stood at an impressive 71.61 per cent.

The fourth and final phase of polling in Odisha will be held on April 29.&nbsp;

The counting of votes will begin on May 23.&nbsp;

The State Election Commission in Odisha has recommended re-polling in 12 booths including booth number 62 of Brahmagiri assembly constituency. In a letter written to the Election Commission of India (ECI), the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Odisha Surendra Kumar said, "We admit that an EVM control unit of Booth number 62 of Brahmagiri assembly constituency was misplaced because of the lapses on the part of the polling officials who received the EVM at strong room.

The State Election Commission in Odisha has recommended re-polling in 12 booths including booth number 62 of Brahmagiri assembly constituency. In a letter written to the Election Commission of India (ECI), the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Odisha Surendra Kumar said, "We admit that an EVM control unit of Booth number 62 of Brahmagiri assembly constituency was misplaced because of the lapses on the part of the polling officials who received the EVM at strong room." "We have apprised the Election Commission about the incident and recommended repolling in 12 booths including booth number 62 of Brahmagiri assembly segments, because of the errors during the voting in the third phase" he added. The voter turnout in the third phase of elections for both assembly and parliamentary constituencies in Odisha stood at an impressive 71.61 per cent. The fourth and final phase of polling in Odisha will be held on April 29. The counting of votes will begin on May 23.

Odisha CEO recommends re-polling in 12 booths

BJP pushing for gains in West Bengal and Odisha and wants to win 35-40 seats in the East. BJP also wants to make gains in the North East.

India Election Watch: Decoding BJP's strategy for East

Five people, including a woman and two girls, were killed when a wild elephant strayed into human habitation in different villages of Odisha's Angul district, officials said Friday.

The tusker entered Sandha village from a forest late on Thursday night and trampled to death three members of a family, who were sleeping in the verandah of their house.

A man and his two-year-old daughter were among those killed in the first incident.

The family was staying in Sandha village since the man was working in a brick kiln in the locality.

A woman was also killed by the jumbo in the same village while she was asleep in the verandah of her house.

The tusker then proceeded to Santhapada village where it crushed to death a 70-year-old man, the official said.

Angry over the incidents, residents of the two villages staged a road blockade on Friday morning demanding adequate compensation to the family of the deceased.

The blockade was lifted after financial assistance was provided to the families of the deceased.

Steps were being taken for payment of ex-gratia as per rules, he said.

Efforts were on to drive away the wild elephant into the forest, a forest official said.&nbsp;

Five people, including a woman and two girls, were killed when a wild elephant strayed into human habitation in different villages of Odisha's Angul district, officials said Friday.

Five people, including a woman and two girls, were killed when a wild elephant strayed into human habitation in different villages of Odisha's Angul district, officials said Friday. The tusker entered Sandha village from a forest late on Thursday night and trampled to death three members of a family, who were sleeping in the verandah of their house. A man and his two-year-old daughter were among those killed in the first incident. The family was staying in Sandha village since the man was working in a brick kiln in the locality. A woman was also killed by the jumbo in the same village while she was asleep in the verandah of her house. The tusker then proceeded to Santhapada village where it crushed to death a 70-year-old man, the official said. Angry over the incidents, residents of the two villages staged a road blockade on Friday morning demanding adequate compensation to the family of the deceased. The blockade was lifted after financial assistance was provided to the families of the deceased. Steps were being taken for payment of ex-gratia as per rules, he said. Efforts were on to drive away the wild elephant into the forest, a forest official said.

Wild elephant tramples 5 people to death in Odisha

In this segment of WION, we bring to you the polling percentage as of 9 AM and other updates on the 2nd phase of polling in the 2019 General election. Watch full video to know more.#VotingRound2, #IndiaVotes, #LokSabhaPolls

General election 2019: 9.51 per cent voter turnout recorded till 9 am in Assam

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-gets-highest-civilian-award-of-russia-209806">Narendra Modi</a> Tuesday slammed the Congress for being "soft" towards terrorism for 40 years and said India can now talk about peace after it exhibited the strength by destroying terror camps across the border.

He said his government has taken measures to weed out the Congress-aided middlemen to ensure that the entire central funds percolate down to the poor.

While addressing rallies at Sambalpur in western Odisha and state capital Bhubaneswar, Modi announced a slew of measures for the welfare of farmers and fishermen, if the BJP was voted to power.

"No one had listened to India earlier when it pleaded for peace. However, now the entire world is with us after witnessing our strength. Only the strong and powerful can talk about peace. No one listens to a weak nation," Modi said.

"If we display our courage, peace will prevail not only in India but in the entire sub-continent," he said asserting that BJP is keen to build a "new India" based on confidence and courage.
<img alt="BJP supporter" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="97e05e15-cae8-4fd3-b63d-3d10ed5643df" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2810%29_2.jpg" />
A BJP supporter wears a poster of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during Vijay Sankalp Sabha, an election campaign by Modi for the Lok Sabha polls, in Bhubaneswar, Tuesday, April 16, 2019. (PTI Photo)&nbsp; 
 
Asking the crowds whether or not the armed forces be given a free hand to deal with terrorism, the prime minister said, "For 40 long years we had been tolerating terrorism and shedding tears. How long should we tolerate this?" Mounting a blistering attack on the Congress, Modi accused it of being a silent spectator to the loot of public money besides being embroiled in multiple controversies and scams before the BJP-led government put brakes on these corrupt practices.

"During the Congress era, only 15 paise of a rupee would reach the poor and the rest was swindled by unscrupulous elements. No one bothered to stop it. Now, we have ensured that central funds reach the poor," Modi said. The Congress has lost credibility among the people as it has no mission and its leader (Rahul Gandhi) lacks vision, he said.

"People are not angry with Modi or the BJP-led government. They are angry with Congress and its 'Mahamilawati' (highly adulterated) friends for their behaviour. They have been spreading lies and making false allegations," the prime minister said."The party and its friends have only one agenda - that of 'Modi Hatao'," he said adding that the Congress can go to any extent for its vote bank.

Maintaining that there is no dearth of resources, Modi said the previous dispensations never paid attention to proper utilisation of funds and natural resources, while his government has taken concrete steps for its optimum use. Seeking to reach out to farmers in western Odisha, the prime minister said his government has hiked the Minimum Support Price for paddy 1.5 times, but the state's BJD government failed to take proper steps for its procurement.

As a result, the entire process is being controlled by middlemen and farmers are unable to get remunerative price for their produce, he said.

Modi's statement was a counter to the recent claim by Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik that the Centre has no sympathy for the farmers of the state.

Hitting out at the Patnaik government, Modi accused it of depriving the farmers of the benefits of PM-KISAN scheme by not cooperating with the Centre in its execution.

Accusing the BJD government of failing to provide a complete list of farmers, the prime minister said only 8.5 lakh peasants of the state could benefit from the scheme in the first phase due to the state government's apathy.

Modi promised that all eligible farmers would get assistance under the PM-KISAN scheme immediately after the BJP forms government at the Centre once again.

"We will also ensure that the farmers get the entire benefit without diversion by middlemen," he said.

In a bid to woo farmers and the fishermen community, the prime minister announced that separate ministries of fisheries and 'Jal shakti' would be set up for their benefit, if the saffron party is re-elected.

A Rs 10,000 crore scheme will also be launched for the welfare of fisherfolk in the country, Modi said.

Modi alleged the BJD government was protecting those involved in mining and chit fund scam cases.

Accusing the Patnaik government of betraying people by claiming central schemes as its own, the prime minister said the Centre's contribution in the much-trumpeted Re 1 per kg rice scheme in the state is a whopping Rs 29 to Rs 30 per kg.

He charged the Congress and the BJD with discriminating between people on the basis of region and caste and claimed that the state remained backwards because of this approach.

Claiming that the people of Odisha have been "blindly" electing the BJD to power for the last 20 years, Modi said the ruling dispensation needs to be replaced and people should elect a "double engine" government by voting the BJP to power both at the Centre and in the state for speedy development. Assembly election in Odisha is being held along with Lok Sabha polls in four phases.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday slammed the Congress for being "soft" towards terrorism for 40 years and said India can now talk about peace after it exhibited the strength by destroying terror camps across the border.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday slammed the Congress for being "soft" towards terrorism for 40 years and said India can now talk about peace after it exhibited the strength by destroying terror camps across the border. He said his government has taken measures to weed out the Congress-aided middlemen to ensure that the entire central funds percolate down to the poor. While addressing rallies at Sambalpur in western Odisha and state capital Bhubaneswar, Modi announced a slew of measures for the welfare of farmers and fishermen, if the BJP was voted to power. "No one had listened to India earlier when it pleaded for peace. However, now the entire world is with us after witnessing our strength. Only the strong and powerful can talk about peace. No one listens to a weak nation," Modi said. "If we display our courage, peace will prevail not only in India but in the entire sub-continent," he said asserting that BJP is keen to build a "new India" based on confidence and courage. A BJP supporter wears a poster of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during Vijay Sankalp Sabha, an election campaign by Modi for the Lok Sabha polls, in Bhubaneswar, Tuesday, April 16, 2019. (PTI Photo) Asking the crowds whether or not the armed forces be given a free hand to deal with terrorism, the prime minister said, "For 40 long years we had been tolerating terrorism and shedding tears. How long should we tolerate this?" Mounting a blistering attack on the Congress, Modi accused it of being a silent spectator to the loot of public money besides being embroiled in multiple controversies and scams before the BJP-led government put brakes on these corrupt practices. "During the Congress era, only 15 paise of a rupee would reach the poor and the rest was swindled by unscrupulous elements. No one bothered to stop it. Now, we have ensured that central funds reach the poor," Modi said. The Congress has lost credibility among the people as it has no mission and its leader (Rahul Gandhi) lacks vision, he said. "People are not angry with Modi or the BJP-led government. They are angry with Congress and its 'Mahamilawati' (highly adulterated) friends for their behaviour. They have been spreading lies and making false allegations," the prime minister said."The party and its friends have only one agenda - that of 'Modi Hatao'," he said adding that the Congress can go to any extent for its vote bank. Maintaining that there is no dearth of resources, Modi said the previous dispensations never paid attention to proper utilisation of funds and natural resources, while his government has taken concrete steps for its optimum use. Seeking to reach out to farmers in western Odisha, the prime minister said his government has hiked the Minimum Support Price for paddy 1.5 times, but the state's BJD government failed to take proper steps for its procurement. As a result, the entire process is being controlled by middlemen and farmers are unable to get remunerative price for their produce, he said. Modi's statement was a counter to the recent claim by Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik that the Centre has no sympathy for the farmers of the state. Hitting out at the Patnaik government, Modi accused it of depriving the farmers of the benefits of PM-KISAN scheme by not cooperating with the Centre in its execution. Accusing the BJD government of failing to provide a complete list of farmers, the prime minister said only 8.5 lakh peasants of the state could benefit from the scheme in the first phase due to the state government's apathy. Modi promised that all eligible farmers would get assistance under the PM-KISAN scheme immediately after the BJP forms government at the Centre once again. "We will also ensure that the farmers get the entire benefit without diversion by middlemen," he said. In a bid to woo farmers and the fishermen community, the prime minister announced that separate ministries of fisheries and 'Jal shakti' would be set up for their benefit, if the saffron party is re-elected. A Rs 10,000 crore scheme will also be launched for the welfare of fisherfolk in the country, Modi said. Modi alleged the BJD government was protecting those involved in mining and chit fund scam cases. Accusing the Patnaik government of betraying people by claiming central schemes as its own, the prime minister said the Centre's contribution in the much-trumpeted Re 1 per kg rice scheme in the state is a whopping Rs 29 to Rs 30 per kg. He charged the Congress and the BJD with discriminating between people on the basis of region and caste and claimed that the state remained backwards because of this approach. Claiming that the people of Odisha have been "blindly" electing the BJD to power for the last 20 years, Modi said the ruling dispensation needs to be replaced and people should elect a "double engine" government by voting the BJP to power both at the Centre and in the state for speedy development. Assembly election in Odisha is being held along with Lok Sabha polls in four phases.

Only strong can talk about peace, nobody listens to a weak nation: PM Modi in Odisha

India on Monday successfully test fired its 1,000-km strike range<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-successfully-test-fires-man-portable-anti-tank-guided-missile-203365"> sub-sonic cruise missile 'Nirbhay'</a>&nbsp;off the coast of Odisha.

"All the mission objectives of the test have been achieved and the missile performed very well during the entire flight duration," officials in the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) said.

This was the sixth development flight trial with an objective to prove the repeatability of boost phase, cruise phase using way-point navigation at very low altitudes, DRDO said in a release.

"The missile took off vertically turning horizontally into the desired direction, booster separated, wings deployed, engine started, cruised all the intended waypoints. The missile demonstrated its sea-skimming capability to cruise at very low altitudes," it said.

The entire flight was fully tracked by a chain of electro-optical tracking systems, radars and ground telemetry systems deployed all along the sea coast.

Nirbhay missile can blast off like a rocket and unlike a missile, it turns into a vehicle akin an aircraft. Flying at tree-top level, it can deceive enemy radars making it difficult to be detected.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India on Monday successfully test fired its 1,000-km strike range sub-sonic cruise missile 'Nirbhay' off the coast of Odisha. "All the mission objectives of the test have been achieved and the missile performed very well during the entire flight duration," officials in the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) said.

India on Monday successfully test fired its 1,000-km strike range sub-sonic cruise missile 'Nirbhay' off the coast of Odisha. "All the mission objectives of the test have been achieved and the missile performed very well during the entire flight duration," officials in the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) said. This was the sixth development flight trial with an objective to prove the repeatability of boost phase, cruise phase using way-point navigation at very low altitudes, DRDO said in a release. "The missile took off vertically turning horizontally into the desired direction, booster separated, wings deployed, engine started, cruised all the intended waypoints. The missile demonstrated its sea-skimming capability to cruise at very low altitudes," it said. The entire flight was fully tracked by a chain of electro-optical tracking systems, radars and ground telemetry systems deployed all along the sea coast. Nirbhay missile can blast off like a rocket and unlike a missile, it turns into a vehicle akin an aircraft. Flying at tree-top level, it can deceive enemy radars making it difficult to be detected.

India successfully test fires 'Nirbhay' missile capable of deceiving enemy radars

Union Minister <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assam-dharmendra-pradhan-rolls-out-slew-of-projects-worth-over-1524-crore-200608&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiAlqev3tHhAhXRW3wKHUYSCukQFggIMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1E6i3eD-6-rFBNBXOGhBg_">Dharmendra Pradhan</a> on Monday accused Odisha Chief Minister <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/even-after-19-years-of-rule-in-odisha-naveen-patnaik-cant-talk-in-odia-amit-shah-209838&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiju9zX3tHhAhWj7HMBHRfoDG8QFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2zfxNhXNb0JfufbgjwowVM">Naveen Patnaik </a>of "shedding crocodile tears" on the murder of BJP worker in Khordha district yesterday and appealed to people to respond to the killing by ballot and not bullet.&nbsp;

Speaking on the murder of BJP Khordha Mandal president Manguli Jena, Pradhan said: "We have to respond to his death not by a bullet, but by ballot. Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Babu is shedding crocodile tears.&nbsp;

Incidents like this in a democracy is condemnable."Jena was allegedly shot dead by two unidentified bike-borne miscreants near the district party office, the police had said on Sunday.

Patnaik had condemned the murder and said, "I strongly condemn the heinous murder that has taken place in Khordha. I have requested the Election Commissioner to direct the police to take strict action against those involved."

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Monday accused Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik of "shedding crocodile tears" on the murder of BJP worker in Khordha district yesterday and appealed to people to respond to the killing by ballot and not bullet.

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Monday accused Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik of "shedding crocodile tears" on the murder of BJP worker in Khordha district yesterday and appealed to people to respond to the killing by ballot and not bullet. Speaking on the murder of BJP Khordha Mandal president Manguli Jena, Pradhan said: "We have to respond to his death not by a bullet, but by ballot. Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Babu is shedding crocodile tears. Incidents like this in a democracy is condemnable."Jena was allegedly shot dead by two unidentified bike-borne miscreants near the district party office, the police had said on Sunday. Patnaik had condemned the murder and said, "I strongly condemn the heinous murder that has taken place in Khordha. I have requested the Election Commissioner to direct the police to take strict action against those involved."

Odisha: Pradhan accuses CM of shedding crocodile tears on BJP worker's killing

Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would provide essential food articles at the price of rupee one under the National Food Security Scheme if voted to power in the state.

"If voted to power in Odisha, BJP will provide the food articles - 5 kg rice, half-kg pulse and salt at rupee one to nearly 3.26 crore beneficiaries under the National Food Security Scheme," said Pradhan, while addressing an election rally at Chaudwar.

"We will raise the salary of Anganwadi workers to Rs 15,000 per month. Furthermore, we will also upgrade all the hospitals in the state and appoint doctors to provide better a better health care facility to the people," he said.

The Lok Sabha and Assembly polls in Odisha are scheduled to be held simultaneously in four phases. The remaining three phases will be held on April 18, 23 and 29. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would provide essential food articles at the price of rupee one under the National Food Security Scheme if voted to power in the state.

Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would provide essential food articles at the price of rupee one under the National Food Security Scheme if voted to power in the state. "If voted to power in Odisha, BJP will provide the food articles - 5 kg rice, half-kg pulse and salt at rupee one to nearly 3.26 crore beneficiaries under the National Food Security Scheme," said Pradhan, while addressing an election rally at Chaudwar. "We will raise the salary of Anganwadi workers to Rs 15,000 per month. Furthermore, we will also upgrade all the hospitals in the state and appoint doctors to provide better a better health care facility to the people," he said. The Lok Sabha and Assembly polls in Odisha are scheduled to be held simultaneously in four phases. The remaining three phases will be held on April 18, 23 and 29. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

BJP promises 5 kg rice, 1/2 kg pulse and salt for one rupee to poor in Odisha

Hitting out at the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government in Odisha, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-will-scrap-article-370-introduce-nrc-across-country-amit-shah-209607">Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah</a> said Friday the state is rich in natural resources, but its people continue to remain poor under the Naveen Patnaik-led dispensation.

Addressing a rally here, Shah said the BJD rule in the state was marked by misrule and corruption.

Taking a jibe at the chief minister, Shah said, "Even after 19 years of rule in Odisha, Naveen (Patnaik) babu cannot talk to his people in Odia."

He asserted that people across the country are raising slogans in favour of the BJP.

"From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, from Odisha to Gujarat, people are raising slogans in favour of Narendra Modi. We can hear Modi... Modi... Chants everywhere," Shah said.

Slamming the opposition Congress, Shah said: "Rahul Baba's party ruled the country for 70 years, but could not eradicate poverty."

"The BJP-led government, on the other hand, launched an era of development in the country, marked by speedy and concrete steps to eradicate poverty," he insisted.

Sharing his plans for the tribal-dominated district, the BJP chief said a steel plant will be set up here if the saffron party is re-elected to power at the Centre.

"Under District Mineral Fund, Rs 1600 crore has been allocated to this district. If the BJP is voted to power again, all forest produces will be procured from the tribals at Minimum Support Price (MSP) and no GST will be levied on tendu leaves," Shah added.

Hitting out at the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government in Odisha, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah said Friday the state is rich in natural resources, but its people continue to remain poor under the Naveen Patnaik-led dispensation.

Hitting out at the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government in Odisha, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah said Friday the state is rich in natural resources, but its people continue to remain poor under the Naveen Patnaik-led dispensation. Addressing a rally here, Shah said the BJD rule in the state was marked by misrule and corruption. Taking a jibe at the chief minister, Shah said, "Even after 19 years of rule in Odisha, Naveen (Patnaik) babu cannot talk to his people in Odia." He asserted that people across the country are raising slogans in favour of the BJP. "From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, from Odisha to Gujarat, people are raising slogans in favour of Narendra Modi. We can hear Modi... Modi... Chants everywhere," Shah said. Slamming the opposition Congress, Shah said: "Rahul Baba's party ruled the country for 70 years, but could not eradicate poverty." "The BJP-led government, on the other hand, launched an era of development in the country, marked by speedy and concrete steps to eradicate poverty," he insisted. Sharing his plans for the tribal-dominated district, the BJP chief said a steel plant will be set up here if the saffron party is re-elected to power at the Centre. "Under District Mineral Fund, Rs 1600 crore has been allocated to this district. If the BJP is voted to power again, all forest produces will be procured from the tribals at Minimum Support Price (MSP) and no GST will be levied on tendu leaves," Shah added.

Even after 19 years of rule in Odisha, Naveen Patnaik can't talk in Odia: Amit Shah

The green valley of Koraput located in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/first-phase-lok-sabha-polls-after-pm-modis-rally-bjp-eyes-cooch-behar-in-west-bengal-208675">southern Odisha with over</a> one crore electorates will go to the polls in the first phase on April 11th. It has been a BJD-Congress bastion for decades, however, the BJP hopes to change the equation after PM Modi kicked off his eastern campaign on March 29th from the home of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and NALCO.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi had already held a rally at Koraput on March 8th aiming to win back the constituency annexed by the Biju Janata Dal(BJD) MP Jhina Hikaka in 2014. The BJP has never won from this seat.

While addressing the rally, PM Modi said: "It is for the people to decide how they want themselves to be governed in the coming years because even after decades of rule by parties like the Congress and BJD, the potential of the state of Odisha is greatly under-utilised.” Clearly, the prime minister pitched his party against the might of the ruling BJD and Congress.

Koraput, a reserved&nbsp;ST category constituency, is one of the 21 in&nbsp;Odisha which will witness a four-way fight between the BJD, Congress, BJP and BSP each jostling to win over the voter.

The ruling BJD had won this seat in the 2009 Lok Sabha polls as well with the Congress winning in 2004 and 1999 respectively. In fact, the Congress has won this seat successively from 1957 to 2004 when it dislodged by the Naveen Patnaik's BJD.

This time the BJD has appointed Jhina Hikaka's wife Kausalya to fight the polls in keeping with its policy of giving seats to women. Former BJD MP Jayaram Pangi will be taking on the ruling BJD in the constituency. He had earlier won the seat in 2004.

The BJP is hoping to grab votes of the dominant Kondhs to which Pangi belongs. The Kondh community comprises of over 40 per cent of the population. The BJP is also hoping that the anti-incumbency factor works in its favour.

Another factor the BJP is trying to exploit is the Saura factor. The Sura tribe which is the second largest voter in Koraput is expected to swayed by political heavyweight Giridhar Gamang, former Congress leader who joined the party two years ago. The former chief minister of Odisha Giridhar Gamang had finished runner-up in both 2009 and 2004 Lok Sabha elections when he fought for the Congress.

Local issues like the lack of implementation of MLAD funds has riled voters in Koraput which could play out against the BJD.

The Congress party has pitched Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka to take on the BJP and BJD in this constituency. It is widely expected that it will eventually come down to a triangular fight between Kausalya Hakka, Jayaram Pangi and Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka in the end.

Although the BJP has expressed confidence in Pangi with PM Modi giving him his blessings during the poll rally, however, the strength of the ruling BJD in the constituency cannot be discounted, also the fact that the Congress has always been a strong&nbsp;contender would mean a close fight is on the cards.&nbsp;

The results to be declared on May 23rd will reveal the leader of the pack, watch this space.

The green valley of Koraput located in southern Odisha with over one crore electorates will go to the polls in the first phase on April 11th. It has been a BJD-Congress bastion for decades, however, the BJP hopes to change the equation after PM Modi kicked off his eastern campaign on March 29th from the home of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and NALCO.

The green valley of Koraput located in southern Odisha with over one crore electorates will go to the polls in the first phase on April 11th. It has been a BJD-Congress bastion for decades, however, the BJP hopes to change the equation after PM Modi kicked off his eastern campaign on March 29th from the home of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and NALCO. Rahul Gandhi had already held a rally at Koraput on March 8th aiming to win back the constituency annexed by the Biju Janata Dal(BJD) MP Jhina Hikaka in 2014. The BJP has never won from this seat. While addressing the rally, PM Modi said: "It is for the people to decide how they want themselves to be governed in the coming years because even after decades of rule by parties like the Congress and BJD, the potential of the state of Odisha is greatly under-utilised.” Clearly, the prime minister pitched his party against the might of the ruling BJD and Congress. Koraput, a reserved ST category constituency, is one of the 21 in Odisha which will witness a four-way fight between the BJD, Congress, BJP and BSP each jostling to win over the voter. The ruling BJD had won this seat in the 2009 Lok Sabha polls as well with the Congress winning in 2004 and 1999 respectively. In fact, the Congress has won this seat successively from 1957 to 2004 when it dislodged by the Naveen Patnaik's BJD. This time the BJD has appointed Jhina Hikaka's wife Kausalya to fight the polls in keeping with its policy of giving seats to women. Former BJD MP Jayaram Pangi will be taking on the ruling BJD in the constituency. He had earlier won the seat in 2004. The BJP is hoping to grab votes of the dominant Kondhs to which Pangi belongs. The Kondh community comprises of over 40 per cent of the population. The BJP is also hoping that the anti-incumbency factor works in its favour. Another factor the BJP is trying to exploit is the Saura factor. The Sura tribe which is the second largest voter in Koraput is expected to swayed by political heavyweight Giridhar Gamang, former Congress leader who joined the party two years ago. The former chief minister of Odisha Giridhar Gamang had finished runner-up in both 2009 and 2004 Lok Sabha elections when he fought for the Congress. Local issues like the lack of implementation of MLAD funds has riled voters in Koraput which could play out against the BJD. The Congress party has pitched Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka to take on the BJP and BJD in this constituency. It is widely expected that it will eventually come down to a triangular fight between Kausalya Hakka, Jayaram Pangi and Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka in the end. Although the BJP has expressed confidence in Pangi with PM Modi giving him his blessings during the poll rally, however, the strength of the ruling BJD in the constituency cannot be discounted, also the fact that the Congress has always been a strong contender would mean a close fight is on the cards. The results to be declared on May 23rd will reveal the leader of the pack, watch this space.

First phase polls: BJD, BJP, Congress in fierce fight in Odisha's Koraput

India Election Watch: Will Naveen Patnaik retain power in Odisha?

The BJP Monday announced the names of three more Lok Sabha candidates from Odisha.

With this, the party has announced the names of 374 candidates.&nbsp;

The party has also released the names of 11 more candidates for the Odisha state assembly polls, which will be held in four phases starting from April 11 and ending on April 29.&nbsp;

The BJP has so far announced candidates for all the Lok Sabha seats which will go to polls in the first four phases of the seven-phased election.&nbsp;

The general elections will begin from April 11 and continue till May 19. The counting of votes will be held on May 23.

The BJP had earlier nominated Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Varanasi and Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh from Lucknow. Party chief Amit Shah will contest from Gandhinagar, where L K Advani is the sitting MP.&nbsp;

The BJP Monday announced the names of three more Lok Sabha candidates from Odisha. With this, the party has announced the names of 374 candidates. The party has also released the names of 11 more candidates for the Odisha state assembly polls, which will be held in four phases starting from April 11 and ending on April 29.

The BJP Monday announced the names of three more Lok Sabha candidates from Odisha. With this, the party has announced the names of 374 candidates. The party has also released the names of 11 more candidates for the Odisha state assembly polls, which will be held in four phases starting from April 11 and ending on April 29. The BJP has so far announced candidates for all the Lok Sabha seats which will go to polls in the first four phases of the seven-phased election. The general elections will begin from April 11 and continue till May 19. The counting of votes will be held on May 23. The BJP had earlier nominated Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Varanasi and Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh from Lucknow. Party chief Amit Shah will contest from Gandhinagar, where L K Advani is the sitting MP.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: BJP announces three more Lok Sabha candidates from Odisha

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Sunday announced names of nine more candidates for the ensuing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-bjp-announces-list-of-100-candidates-for-odisha-assembly-polls-204777">Assembly elections in the state</a>.

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has fielded Kishore Mohanty from Brajaraj Nagar while AN Singh will contest from Bolangir.

The list also includes Pradeep Behera (Loisinga), Pitam Padhi (Pottangi), PK Dishari (Lanjigarh), PC Majhi (Jharigam), Mukunda Sodi (Malkangiri), Dr R Panigrahi (Sambalpur) and Rohit Pujari (Rairakhol). So far the BJD has declared its 63 candidates who will contest the coming Assembly polls.&nbsp;

Three MPs and three MLAs have quit the BJD after being denied tickets in the Lok Sabha and Odisha Assembly polls.

Odisha has 147 Assembly constituencies that will go to polls in four phases starting April 11, which will be held along with the Lok Sabha elections.

The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Sunday announced names of nine more candidates for the ensuing Assembly elections in the state. The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has fielded Kishore Mohanty from Brajaraj Nagar while AN Singh will contest from Bolangir.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Sunday announced names of nine more candidates for the ensuing Assembly elections in the state. The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has fielded Kishore Mohanty from Brajaraj Nagar while AN Singh will contest from Bolangir. The list also includes Pradeep Behera (Loisinga), Pitam Padhi (Pottangi), PK Dishari (Lanjigarh), PC Majhi (Jharigam), Mukunda Sodi (Malkangiri), Dr R Panigrahi (Sambalpur) and Rohit Pujari (Rairakhol). So far the BJD has declared its 63 candidates who will contest the coming Assembly polls. Three MPs and three MLAs have quit the BJD after being denied tickets in the Lok Sabha and Odisha Assembly polls. Odisha has 147 Assembly constituencies that will go to polls in four phases starting April 11, which will be held along with the Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Naveen Patnaik announces nine more candidates for Odisha Assembly polls

Duryodhan Majhi, sitting MLA from Khariar, on Saturday returned to the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

"I am glad that Duryodhan Majhi has joined back. I welcome him back to the party. His return will strengthen the BJD," Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik told media in Bhubaneswar.

Majhi quit the BJP after the party fielded wife of former BJP MLA Hitesh Bagarti, Rita, from the Khariar Assembly seat. Majhi had quit BJD in 2014 after he was denied a ticket.

Odisha will be going to polls in four phases - on April 11, 18, 23 and 29.

The state will be voting simultaneously for parliamentary and assembly constituencies.

There are 21 Lok Sabha and 147 Assembly seats at stake in Odisha.&nbsp;

Duryodhan Majhi, sitting MLA from Khariar, on Saturday returned to the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. "I am glad that Duryodhan Majhi has joined back.

Duryodhan Majhi, sitting MLA from Khariar, on Saturday returned to the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. "I am glad that Duryodhan Majhi has joined back. I welcome him back to the party. His return will strengthen the BJD," Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik told media in Bhubaneswar. Majhi quit the BJP after the party fielded wife of former BJP MLA Hitesh Bagarti, Rita, from the Khariar Assembly seat. Majhi had quit BJD in 2014 after he was denied a ticket. Odisha will be going to polls in four phases - on April 11, 18, 23 and 29. The state will be voting simultaneously for parliamentary and assembly constituencies. There are 21 Lok Sabha and 147 Assembly seats at stake in Odisha.

Lok Sabha 2019: After quitting BJP, Duryodhan Majhi returns to BJD

Odisha MLA Prakash Chandra Behera Sunday joined the BJP after being with the Congress for 20 years, with Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan saying his presence will help the party bring about changes in Odisha under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. 
 
Behera, who represents Cuttack's Salepur constituency, quit the Congress on Saturday. 
 
Joining the BJP during a party press conference here, he said, 'I have faith in Narendra Modi's leadership and the youngsters in my constituency are really impressed with the government's decision of carrying out surgical strikes.' 
 
He said he quit the Congress because he was ignored by the party's state leadership.&nbsp; 
 
Pradhan welcomed him into the BJP fold and said his presence will help the party bring about changes in Odisha under the Modi leadership.&nbsp;

Odisha MLA Prakash Chandra Behera Sunday joined the BJP after being with the Congress for 20 years, with Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan saying his presence will help the party bring about changes in Odisha under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.

Odisha MLA Prakash Chandra Behera Sunday joined the BJP after being with the Congress for 20 years, with Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan saying his presence will help the party bring about changes in Odisha under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. Behera, who represents Cuttack's Salepur constituency, quit the Congress on Saturday. Joining the BJP during a party press conference here, he said, 'I have faith in Narendra Modi's leadership and the youngsters in my constituency are really impressed with the government's decision of carrying out surgical strikes.' He said he quit the Congress because he was ignored by the party's state leadership. Pradhan welcomed him into the BJP fold and said his presence will help the party bring about changes in Odisha under the Modi leadership.

Odisha MLA Prakash Chandra Behera joins BJP

Former Chief Justice of Gauhati High Court Ajit Singh is appointed as the first Lokayukta of Odisha.

Odisha Governor Ganeshi Lal has approved his name following the recommendation of selection committee headed by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik which unanimously selected Ajit Singh as the Lokayukta chairperson.

Singh held the post of Chief Justice of Gauhati High Court from March 5, 2016, till his retirement on November 5 last year.

Born on September 6, 1956, Singh practised on civil, criminal and constitutional sides in the High court of Madhya Pradesh and has been appointed as Additional Judge of the Madhya Pradesh High Court on April 1, 2002, and permanent Judge on March 21, 2003.

He was transferred to Rajasthan High Court on March 5, 2016.&nbsp;

Former Chief Justice of Gauhati High Court Ajit Singh is appointed as the first Lokayukta of Odisha. Odisha Governor Ganeshi Lal has approved his name following the recommendation of selection committee headed by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik which unanimously selected Ajit Singh as the Lokayukta chairperson.

Former Chief Justice of Gauhati High Court Ajit Singh is appointed as the first Lokayukta of Odisha. Odisha Governor Ganeshi Lal has approved his name following the recommendation of selection committee headed by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik which unanimously selected Ajit Singh as the Lokayukta chairperson. Singh held the post of Chief Justice of Gauhati High Court from March 5, 2016, till his retirement on November 5 last year. Born on September 6, 1956, Singh practised on civil, criminal and constitutional sides in the High court of Madhya Pradesh and has been appointed as Additional Judge of the Madhya Pradesh High Court on April 1, 2002, and permanent Judge on March 21, 2003. He was transferred to Rajasthan High Court on March 5, 2016.

Former Chief Justice of Gauhati High Court Ajit Singh appointed as first Lokayukta of Odisha

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention and sought two new railway divisions at Rourkela and Jajpur districts to unify the railways under one administrative zone in Odisha.

Patnaik said he had come to know from media reports that Railway Minister Piyush Goyal has announced setting up of a new zone, South Coast Railway (SCoR), which will be formed by carving out part of the East Coast Railway's (ECoR's) Waltair division.

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) chief said it had come as a "rude shock" to the people of the state.

"Till such (formation of new divisions) time, I would request in the interest of the people of Odisha, not to operationalise the declared South Coast Railway zone at Visakhapatnam which has been done without consultation with Odisha," Patnaik said in a letter to Modi.

Patnaik wrote the letter hours after the ruling BJD members staged a demonstration before the headquarters of the ECoR here.

At present, about 70 per cent of Odisha is under the jurisdiction of the ECoR that has its headquarters in Bhubaneswar. The state has the maximum resources of almost all major minerals like coal, iron ore, bauxite and manganese ore.

"With our thrust on industrialisation and Make in Odisha, we have been able to add value to these minerals within the State," Patnaik said.

The chief minister said an efficient and strong railway network with a single administrative structure within the state was necessary to maintain the impetus of growth. Currently, the major minerals like iron ore and coal are under Zonal Railways.

"My Government has also come forward to invest heavily to bridge the gap in investment in Railway Infrastructure, as in Haridaspur Paradip and Angul

Sukinda new lines. The State has provided land free of cost for Khurda Road Bolangir, Jeypore Malkangiri, Jeypore Nabarangpur Projects," he added.

"The commitment of my government to railway projects stands today in excess of Rs 5,000 crores, signifying our focus and priority to this sector," Patnaik said.

It is in this backdrop that Odisha has been asking for the reorganisation of railways in Odisha and unifying the railways in the state under one administrative zone of ECoR, Bhubaneswar, he said.

As the Centre has created the SCoR, the similar demand of Odisha may be considered likewise, Patnaik said.

"In view of our genuine concern and demand, I urge your kind intervention to declare two new Railway Divisions at Rourkela and Jajpur to unify Railways in Odisha under one administrative Zonal Headquarters of ECoR, Bhubaneswar," he added.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention and sought two new railway divisions at Rourkela and Jajpur districts to unify the railways under one administrative zone in Odisha.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention and sought two new railway divisions at Rourkela and Jajpur districts to unify the railways under one administrative zone in Odisha. Patnaik said he had come to know from media reports that Railway Minister Piyush Goyal has announced setting up of a new zone, South Coast Railway (SCoR), which will be formed by carving out part of the East Coast Railway's (ECoR's) Waltair division. The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) chief said it had come as a "rude shock" to the people of the state. "Till such (formation of new divisions) time, I would request in the interest of the people of Odisha, not to operationalise the declared South Coast Railway zone at Visakhapatnam which has been done without consultation with Odisha," Patnaik said in a letter to Modi. Patnaik wrote the letter hours after the ruling BJD members staged a demonstration before the headquarters of the ECoR here. At present, about 70 per cent of Odisha is under the jurisdiction of the ECoR that has its headquarters in Bhubaneswar. The state has the maximum resources of almost all major minerals like coal, iron ore, bauxite and manganese ore. "With our thrust on industrialisation and Make in Odisha, we have been able to add value to these minerals within the State," Patnaik said. The chief minister said an efficient and strong railway network with a single administrative structure within the state was necessary to maintain the impetus of growth. Currently, the major minerals like iron ore and coal are under Zonal Railways. "My Government has also come forward to invest heavily to bridge the gap in investment in Railway Infrastructure, as in Haridaspur Paradip and Angul Sukinda new lines. The State has provided land free of cost for Khurda Road Bolangir, Jeypore Malkangiri, Jeypore Nabarangpur Projects," he added. "The commitment of my government to railway projects stands today in excess of Rs 5,000 crores, signifying our focus and priority to this sector," Patnaik said. It is in this backdrop that Odisha has been asking for the reorganisation of railways in Odisha and unifying the railways in the state under one administrative zone of ECoR, Bhubaneswar, he said. As the Centre has created the SCoR, the similar demand of Odisha may be considered likewise, Patnaik said. "In view of our genuine concern and demand, I urge your kind intervention to declare two new Railway Divisions at Rourkela and Jajpur to unify Railways in Odisha under one administrative Zonal Headquarters of ECoR, Bhubaneswar," he added.

Naveen seeks PM's intervention seeking single railway zone in Odisha

The United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women (UN Women) lauded the Naveen Patnaik-led Odisha government for the women's reservation proposal.

In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, the UN Women said,&nbsp;"We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the support extended by your government in implementation of the joint programme between UN Women &amp; the Panchayati Raj Department, Govt of Odisha to promote Gender Responsive Governance in the state."

The Women's Reservation Bill has been gathering dust for several years now for want of unanimity among different parties over the issue.

The proposal, which was passed in November 2018 by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, seeks to implement 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies.

It is worth mentioning that the Rajya Sabha passed the Constitution 108th Amendment Bill in 2010. However, the Bill lapsed after the dissolution of the 15th Lok Sabha in 2014.

The Legislative Assemblies of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh have already taken a lead and passed a resolution calling on the Central government to enact the Women's Reservation.

Mahila Congress president Sushmita Dev had also written to all Congress-led state governments regarding Women's Reservation Bill.

The United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women (UN Women) lauded the Naveen Patnaik-led Odisha government for the women's reservation proposal.

The United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women (UN Women) lauded the Naveen Patnaik-led Odisha government for the women's reservation proposal. In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, the UN Women said, "We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the support extended by your government in implementation of the joint programme between UN Women & the Panchayati Raj Department, Govt of Odisha to promote Gender Responsive Governance in the state." The Women's Reservation Bill has been gathering dust for several years now for want of unanimity among different parties over the issue. The proposal, which was passed in November 2018 by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, seeks to implement 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies. It is worth mentioning that the Rajya Sabha passed the Constitution 108th Amendment Bill in 2010. However, the Bill lapsed after the dissolution of the 15th Lok Sabha in 2014. The Legislative Assemblies of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh have already taken a lead and passed a resolution calling on the Central government to enact the Women's Reservation. Mahila Congress president Sushmita Dev had also written to all Congress-led state governments regarding Women's Reservation Bill.

UN Women lauds Odisha government for proposing women's reservation

Acting on a directive of the Election Commission of India (ECI), a demonstration-cum-mock poll on the functioning of EVM-VVPAT was conducted in the premises of the Orissa High Court on Tuesday.

The exercise was held before Justice Kalpesh Satyendra Jhaveri, Chief Justice of Orissa High Court and other Puisne judges of the High Court.&nbsp;

During the demonstration, Surendra Kumar, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Odisha made a brief presentation on the EVM- VVPAT and informed the judges that the VVPAT will be used for the first time in the forthcoming simultaneous general elections in Odisha.

The Chief Justice of Orissa High Court and all the judges participated in a mock poll and were satisfied with the demonstration.

Chief Electoral Officer, Odisha informed the judges about the Voter Helpline application developed by the ECI whereby any voter can verify their names in the electoral roll. The application is available for download on Google play store.

The judges were also informed that application for inclusion or correction can be made currently, which is the period of continuous updating of electoral polls.&nbsp;

Acting on a directive of the Election Commission of India (ECI), a demonstration-cum-mock poll on the functioning of EVM-VVPAT was conducted in the premises of the Orissa High Court on Tuesday.

Acting on a directive of the Election Commission of India (ECI), a demonstration-cum-mock poll on the functioning of EVM-VVPAT was conducted in the premises of the Orissa High Court on Tuesday. The exercise was held before Justice Kalpesh Satyendra Jhaveri, Chief Justice of Orissa High Court and other Puisne judges of the High Court. During the demonstration, Surendra Kumar, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Odisha made a brief presentation on the EVM- VVPAT and informed the judges that the VVPAT will be used for the first time in the forthcoming simultaneous general elections in Odisha. The Chief Justice of Orissa High Court and all the judges participated in a mock poll and were satisfied with the demonstration. Chief Electoral Officer, Odisha informed the judges about the Voter Helpline application developed by the ECI whereby any voter can verify their names in the electoral roll. The application is available for download on Google play store. The judges were also informed that application for inclusion or correction can be made currently, which is the period of continuous updating of electoral polls.

Odisha: High court judges given demonstration of EVM

Odisha Government on Monday inaugurated its first high-performance centre in the state for realizing its dream of becoming a global sports destination.

With intent to provide quality sport in the State, this high-performance centre is established by professional shooter Abhinav Bindra's 'Abhinav Futuristics Pvt&nbsp;Ltd'&nbsp;with the help of Government of Odisha.

The centre was inaugurated by Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik in the presence of Bindra.

Speaking about the inauguration, Chief Minister Patnaik said, "the inauguration of this HPC will encourage athletes to use Sports Science to enhance their performance. Coaching has always been good in Odisha, but now with best available technology, our athletes will have access to a state-of-the-art, world-class sports medicine and rehab setup.''

The founder of the ABTP Centre, Abhinav Bindra stated, “The ABTP Centre’s have been made with the aim of encouraging athletes to use Sports Science to add value to their training routine. With cutting edge technology from all over the world in physiology, biomechanics, functional training and recovery we aspire to take the best care of the athletes with us."

The centre’s services would include performance enhancement, injury prevention, and management, biomechanics, physiology testing and training, recovery, as well as strength and conditioning training.

The ABTP Centre will be open to athletes from February, 19th.&nbsp;

Odisha Government on Monday inaugurated its first high-performance centre in the state for realizing its dream of becoming a global sports destination. With intent to provide quality sport in the State, this high-performance centre is established by professional shooter Abhinav Bindra's 'Abhinav Futuristics Pvt Ltd' with the help of Government of Odisha.

Odisha Government on Monday inaugurated its first high-performance centre in the state for realizing its dream of becoming a global sports destination. With intent to provide quality sport in the State, this high-performance centre is established by professional shooter Abhinav Bindra's 'Abhinav Futuristics Pvt Ltd' with the help of Government of Odisha. The centre was inaugurated by Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik in the presence of Bindra. Speaking about the inauguration, Chief Minister Patnaik said, "the inauguration of this HPC will encourage athletes to use Sports Science to enhance their performance. Coaching has always been good in Odisha, but now with best available technology, our athletes will have access to a state-of-the-art, world-class sports medicine and rehab setup.'' The founder of the ABTP Centre, Abhinav Bindra stated, “The ABTP Centre’s have been made with the aim of encouraging athletes to use Sports Science to add value to their training routine. With cutting edge technology from all over the world in physiology, biomechanics, functional training and recovery we aspire to take the best care of the athletes with us." The centre’s services would include performance enhancement, injury prevention, and management, biomechanics, physiology testing and training, recovery, as well as strength and conditioning training. The ABTP Centre will be open to athletes from February, 19th.

Odisha: State’s first high-performance centre inaugurated

Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off a new train on Balangir-Bichhupali route&nbsp;at the cost of Rs 115 crore&nbsp;in Odisha on Tuesday.

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Odisha: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Bolangir-Bichhupali railway line in Odisha today. <a href="https://t.co/vyBaeJQ2an">pic.twitter.com/vyBaeJQ2an</a>
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In addition to the new train route, PM Modi also laid the foundation for the permanent building of Kendriya Vidyalaya at Sonepur at an investment of Rs 15.81 crore.&nbsp;

He also inaugurated renovation and restoration works of Nilamadhav and Siddheswar Temple in Odisha's Boudh district.&nbsp;

Informing about the event, the Prime Minister had tweeted on Monday: "There is something special about Odisha, that draws me to the state so often! Tomorrow I will be in Balangir to inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for several development works, which will have a transformative impact on Odisha's progress."

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There is something special about Odisha, that draws me to the state so often! 
 
Tomorrow I will be in Balangir to inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for several development works, which will have a transformative impact on Odisha’s progress.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1084850349532311552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off a new train on Balangir-Bichhupali route at the cost of Rs 115 crore in Odisha on Tuesday. Odisha: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Bolangir-Bichhupali railway line in Odisha today.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off a new train on Balangir-Bichhupali route at the cost of Rs 115 crore in Odisha on Tuesday. Odisha: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Bolangir-Bichhupali railway line in Odisha today. pic.twitter.com/vyBaeJQ2an — ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2019 × In addition to the new train route, PM Modi also laid the foundation for the permanent building of Kendriya Vidyalaya at Sonepur at an investment of Rs 15.81 crore. He also inaugurated renovation and restoration works of Nilamadhav and Siddheswar Temple in Odisha's Boudh district. Informing about the event, the Prime Minister had tweeted on Monday: "There is something special about Odisha, that draws me to the state so often! Tomorrow I will be in Balangir to inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for several development works, which will have a transformative impact on Odisha's progress." There is something special about Odisha, that draws me to the state so often! Tomorrow I will be in Balangir to inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for several development works, which will have a transformative impact on Odisha’s progress. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 14, 2019 ×

PM Modi flags off new train on Balangir-Bichhupali route in Odisha

Two days ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to Balangir district, a row surfaced on Sunday over alleged cutting of trees to prepare a temporary helipad.

Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Balangir, Sameer Satpathy said several trees were felled near the railway station ground in the district to prepare a temporary helipad without obtaining prior permission.

Satpathy added that an inquiry in this regard has been ordered.

Union Petroleum Minister and senior BJP leader Dharmendra Pradhan, however, claimed that people who are "afraid" of the prime minister's visit are trying to spread a false campaign by "misusing" forest officials.

"Following the direction of the DFO, a team will visit the site in order to ascertain the number of trees felled in the area," said Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) Babaji Charan Raul.

Since the area happens to be under the jurisdiction of the railways, an official of the East Coast Railways (ECoR) said they are also conducting an inquiry into the matter.

"We are doing our own enquiry on the subject," Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of ECoR, J P Mishra said, adding, preparation of such a helipad is the task of the public works department (PWD) of the state government.

Pradhan added: "It is the local administration which decides as to where the prime minister's helicopter will land."

Modi is slated to attend an official function where he will launch a host of projects, besides addressing a BJP rally in the western Odisha town during his visit.

Two days ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to Balangir district, a row surfaced on Sunday over alleged cutting of trees to prepare a temporary helipad.

Two days ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to Balangir district, a row surfaced on Sunday over alleged cutting of trees to prepare a temporary helipad. Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Balangir, Sameer Satpathy said several trees were felled near the railway station ground in the district to prepare a temporary helipad without obtaining prior permission. Satpathy added that an inquiry in this regard has been ordered. Union Petroleum Minister and senior BJP leader Dharmendra Pradhan, however, claimed that people who are "afraid" of the prime minister's visit are trying to spread a false campaign by "misusing" forest officials. "Following the direction of the DFO, a team will visit the site in order to ascertain the number of trees felled in the area," said Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) Babaji Charan Raul. Since the area happens to be under the jurisdiction of the railways, an official of the East Coast Railways (ECoR) said they are also conducting an inquiry into the matter. "We are doing our own enquiry on the subject," Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of ECoR, J P Mishra said, adding, preparation of such a helipad is the task of the public works department (PWD) of the state government. Pradhan added: "It is the local administration which decides as to where the prime minister's helicopter will land." Modi is slated to attend an official function where he will launch a host of projects, besides addressing a BJP rally in the western Odisha town during his visit.

Felling of trees for PM's helipad sparks row in Odisha

A 40-feet-long endangered whale was washed ashore in an estuary close to Gahirmatha marine sanctuary in Odisha's Kendrapara district, Forest department officials said Saturday.

The gargantuan mammal weighed around 12 tonne. "It has become an uphill task for the Forest personnel to extricate the mammals body from the estuary near Talchua coast. We are planning to press into service a crane to remove the marine animals body," said Forest Range Officer, Subrat Patra.

The whale was washed ashore on Friday.

The mammal's body bore injury marks. The species figures in the list of threatened marine species. The mammal is a schedule-I species under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. We are still undecided whether to bury the carcass after its post mortem, said the forest official.

As there are injury marks, the mammal might have perished after being hit by either ship or trawl propellers.

After necessary legal formalities like post mortem examination is over, we would seek suggestion from department high-ups regarding preservation of the skeletal remains of the whale, he said.

Many curious villagers including fishermen thronged the estuary site to witness the giant whale.

The whale is in decomposed state and had scars and evidence of entanglements. Entanglements are common with this particular type of species because of their feeding habits, according to Forest officials.&nbsp;

A 40-feet-long endangered whale was washed ashore in an estuary close to Gahirmatha marine sanctuary in Odisha's Kendrapara district, Forest department officials said Saturday.

A 40-feet-long endangered whale was washed ashore in an estuary close to Gahirmatha marine sanctuary in Odisha's Kendrapara district, Forest department officials said Saturday. The gargantuan mammal weighed around 12 tonne. "It has become an uphill task for the Forest personnel to extricate the mammals body from the estuary near Talchua coast. We are planning to press into service a crane to remove the marine animals body," said Forest Range Officer, Subrat Patra. The whale was washed ashore on Friday. The mammal's body bore injury marks. The species figures in the list of threatened marine species. The mammal is a schedule-I species under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. We are still undecided whether to bury the carcass after its post mortem, said the forest official. As there are injury marks, the mammal might have perished after being hit by either ship or trawl propellers. After necessary legal formalities like post mortem examination is over, we would seek suggestion from department high-ups regarding preservation of the skeletal remains of the whale, he said. Many curious villagers including fishermen thronged the estuary site to witness the giant whale. The whale is in decomposed state and had scars and evidence of entanglements. Entanglements are common with this particular type of species because of their feeding habits, according to Forest officials.

Giant whale washed ashore in Odisha

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