National

BJD MP Describes Budget as “An Insult to 4.5 Crore People of Odisha”

Published

1 year ago

February 13, 2025

Dr. Sasmit Patra, the Rajya Sabha MP from Odisha and national spokesperson for the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), criticized the Union Budget 2025 on Thursday, deeming it an insult to the 4.5 crore residents of Odisha and reiterating the demand for Special Category Status for the state.

Speaking in the Rajya Sabha during the Union Budget 2025 discussion, Dr. Patra accused the central government of neglecting Odisha, stating, “This is not mere oversight—this is a direct affront to the people of our state!”

He reminded the members about the promise made by the Odisha BJP in their 2014 election manifesto regarding Special Category Status, while expressing frustration that this demand, which has been championed by BJD leader Naveen Patnaik for the last twenty years, has yet to be fulfilled. “The people of Odisha have held onto the hope of receiving Special Category Status, but this Budget does not deliver on that expectation,” he asserted.

Dr. Patra emphasized the state’s economic significance and the recurring struggles with natural disasters, lamenting the central government’s failure to acknowledge Odisha’s hardships. “Odisha is the economic backbone of this nation—our coal, iron ore, and minerals are vital to India’s development. Yet, when we seek our rightful share, this government turns a blind eye! We face cyclones and natural calamities year after year, but our suffering goes unrecognized!” he exclaimed.

He further criticized the Union Budget 2025, arguing that it favors certain regions while marginalizing others, effectively treating Odisha as an afterthought. “This Budget caters to select interests, overlooks many, and regards Odisha as an afterthought! Are we only considered valuable for our mines and minerals, yet unworthy of the support required for Special Category Status?” he questioned.

National

Jammu University Introduces Fuel-Saving Measures

Published

23 hours ago

May 14, 2026

Namma Kudla

National : The University of Jammu has announced several fuel-saving measures following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for fuel conservation. Vice-Chancellor Prof Umesh Rai said the university has decided to conduct all PhD viva voce examinations online to reduce travel and save fuel.

The university will also prefer virtual speakers for national and international conferences. In another step, the Academic Council meeting planned in Poonch has been shifted to the Jammu University campus to avoid unnecessary travel.

Prof Rai said the measures will help save fuel, time and resources. He also encouraged university staff to use bicycles and carpool while travelling to the campus.

National

One Year On: Pahalgam Attack Still Haunts the Nation

Published

3 weeks ago

April 21, 2026

Namma Kudla

National: One year after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, the nation remembers the 26 people who lost their lives. The attack took place on April 22 at Baisaran, a popular tourist spot.

At first, reports said only five people were injured. Later, it became clear that it was one of the worst terror attacks in the region in decades. Terrorists came out of the forest and opened fire on tourists.

Survivors said the attackers separated men from women and children. They then shot the men at close range. Many victims were reportedly targeted after being asked about their religion.

A heartbreaking image of Himanshi Narwal sitting beside her husband’s body became a symbol of the tragedy. Her husband, a naval officer, was among those killed.

The group The Resistance front, linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility. The case was investigated by the National Investigation Agency.

After months of tracking, security forces launched Operation Mahadev. On July 28, 2025, all three terrorists were killed after a long search operation.

The attack remains a painful memory and a reminder of the need for strong security.

National

Social Media Influencer-Turned Gangster Held Abroad

Published

1 month ago

April 9, 2026

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: Rao Inderjeet Yadav has been arrested in Dubai. He is wanted in a murder case from Haryana.

He fled India in 2024 after a businessman was killed in Rohtak. Police had been searching for him since then. Officials said Dubai authorities have asked for documents. He is likely to be brought back to India soon.

Yadav faces more than 15 criminal cases. These include extortion, fraud, and illegal land deals. The Enforcement Directorate also investigated him for money laundering. Raids led to the seizure of cash, cars, and documents.

He also ran a music company called Gems Tunes. It produced regional songs.

Yadav had a large social media following. He often showed his rich lifestyle online. He has denied all charges. He claims he is being framed.

Police are now preparing for further action.