Suryakumar named captain for 5-match T20 Series against Australia; Shreyas Iyer to play last two games

Patra hailed the Narendra Modi-led Central Government for enhancing free rice distribution under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana till 2028. 

The Centre said it would supply vitamin rice to people through the public distribution system till 2028. Minister Patra hailed the decision of the State government. 

"Extension of free rice distribution was necessary for the poor. The Union Government will continue supplying free rice to ration card holders till 2028," Patra said, adding, "The state government is also mulling to enhance the period of rice distribution proportionately under the state scheme." 

Read More Odisha News
 

In a statement, RSS Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat and Sarkaryavah Dattatreya Hosabale paid tributes, calling Tata "a priceless gem" and praising his invaluable contributions to India's progress.

"The death of Ratan Tata is deeply saddening for all Indians. With his passing, India has lost an irreplaceable jewel. His contribution to India's development will be remembered forever. Through his pioneering initiatives in key industries, he set remarkable standards," the statement said.

The RSS further highlighted Tata's dedication to societal welfare. "Whether it was national unity, security, development, or employee welfare, Ratan ji's innovative thinking and efforts were truly inspirational. Despite his immense success, his humility and simplicity stood out as exemplary traits," they added.

Paying an emotional tribute, the RSS leaders said, "We offer our heartfelt respects to his sacred memory and pray for the salvation of his soul."

Ratan Tata passed away at the Breach Candy Hospital on Wednesday following age-related health conditions. He was 86.

His cremation will be performed with full state honours, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said on Thursday.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will attend Ratan Tata's funeral on behalf of the Government of India.

At the crematorium, the mortal remains, draped in the national flag, will be given a police gun salute and then will be consigned to the flames, his family has said.

His mortal remains will be kept for people to pay their last respects at the NCPA Lawns at Nariman Point, before being taken for the state funeral in Worli, government and Tata Group officials said on Thursday.

The state of Maharashtra has also declared a day-long mourning in memory of the business titan.

The Tricolour would be flown at half-mast at all government buildings in Ratan Tata's honour, and there will be no official entertainment programmes for the day.

--IANS
 

Mahasthami Puja is being celebrated at all Goddess temples, including Maa Katakachandi and Maa Gadachandi in Cuttack City; Maa Bimala in Shreemandir, Puri; Maa Mangala at Kakatpur; Maa Bijraja at Jajpur; Maa Sarala in Jagatsinghpur and Maa Charchika at Banki. 

Saptami Puja is being conducted at Mandaps (Temporary Puja Platforms) across Bhubaneswar and Cuttack. A Beautiful Toran (Gate) has been elected at each Mandap. The glittering Torans, food stalls, and Meena Bazaar attract devotees most in the evening hours. 

Security and traffic arrangements have been beefed up across the two cities as a heavy rush of devotees is expected in the next four days till Bhashani Utsav (immersion festival). 

Read More Odisha News