Odisha is exploring new opportunities for international business partnerships, technological cooperation and investment as its startup ecosystem strengthens ties with Israel. The initiative gained momentum with an Israel–Odisha Business and Innovation Roundtable held at O-Hub in Bhubaneswar on Friday (November 6).

The event was jointly organised by Startup Odisha and the MSME Department of the state government to strengthen business relations and explore opportunities for technological collaboration between Israel and Odisha.

During the meeting, Israeli delegates interacted with Odisha-based startups and explored their innovative products and business solutions. Gilad Neuman, Managing Partner of the Social Accelerator at the Jewish People Policy Institute (JPPI), highlighted potential areas of cooperation, including environmental protection, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), surveillance systems and drone technology.

He also discussed possible partnerships with O-Hub to promote startup development, incubation activities and innovation-driven entrepreneurship.

Odisha Showcases Its Growing Startup Ecosystem

Startup Odisha CEO Smruti Ranjan Pradhan presented an overview of the state’s startup ecosystem and highlighted the opportunities available for entrepreneurs and investors.

Mission Associate Saloni Mahapatra delivered the welcome address, while Dr. Bijay Kumar Sahu, Head of the NRDC Outreach Office, explained the background and objectives of the meeting. Bisasis Gantayat of HCL also attended the programme as an expert.

Focus on Technology and Sustainable Development

A special session during the roundtable focused on technology, digital innovation, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.

Israeli delegates encouraged Odisha-based startups to develop practical and innovative solutions to address real-world challenges. Investors also expressed interest in exploring potential opportunities in sectors such as drone technology, healthcare and sustainable development.

New Opportunities for Odisha Startups

The Israel–Odisha collaboration is expected to strengthen international partnerships and create fresh opportunities for startups in the state.

The initiative aims to connect local entrepreneurs with global markets, advanced technologies, international business networks and potential investors.

The engagement is also expected to provide Odisha-based startups with greater exposure to global innovation practices while opening new avenues for investment and cross-border business cooperation.

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As Diwali celebrations light up the country, an exclusive and expensive sweet in Rajasthan’s capital, Jaipur, has become the talk of the town. Named ‘Tyohar Asharfi’, this royal delicacy is attracting attention for its extraordinary price, with a single piece costing Rs 1,111. The price of one kilogram of the sweet is approximately Rs 1,23,444.

Resembling an antique gold coin, Tyohar Asharfi is prepared using almond paste, Kashmiri saffron, gold and 24-carat edible gold foil. A box containing nine pieces is priced at Rs 9,999. The premium sweet has become a popular attraction among customers looking for exclusive gifts for VIPs and corporate associates during the festive season.

Inspired by Royal Traditions

According to CA Anjali Jain, the founder of the outlet, the idea behind creating this unique sweet was inspired by the tradition of kings and royal families gifting gold Asharfis in earlier times.

She claimed that the gold used in the preparation of the sweet is safe for consumption as per Ayurvedic standards.

Apart from Tyohar Asharfi, another premium delicacy named ‘Swarn Prasadam’ has also been introduced. It is priced at Rs 1.11 lakh per kilogram, making it another exclusive offering for Diwali celebrations.

Navratna and Firecracker-Shaped Sweets Steal the Show

Adding to the festive attraction, the outlet has also introduced ‘Navratna Mithai’, inspired by Jaipur’s identity as a city associated with precious gemstones.

Firecracker-shaped sweets are another major attraction among customers, adding a creative touch to Diwali celebrations.

Since gold and silver are used in preparing these premium delicacies, strict security arrangements are reportedly maintained during the production process. According to Anjali Jain, the sweets are made without artificial colours, with natural colours and flavours given preference.

Diwali is traditionally associated with exchanging sweets and gifts in India. While homemade laddoos and other traditional delicacies were once the preferred festive gifts, premium sweets made with gold and silver are now adding a luxurious dimension to the celebrations.

With their royal appearance, exclusive ingredients and extraordinary prices, these special sweets have emerged as a major attraction in Jaipur this Diwali.

The post Jaipur’s Rs 1.23 Lakh Per Kg Diwali Sweet Grabs Attention, One Piece Costs Rs 1,111 appeared first on Odisha Connect.

A Royal Bengal Tiger has triggered panic in the Semiliguda area of Odisha’s Koraput district, with residents remaining on edge over its frequent but unpredictable movements. The tiger has reportedly been hunting inside the forest and disappearing without leaving any trace. Although its movements have been captured on trap cameras, the Forest Department is yet to track down or capture the big cat.

The presence of the Royal Bengal Tiger in the Semiliguda region came to light after forest officials discovered pugmarks in the area a few days ago. Subsequently, digital camera footage and other evidence confirmed the presence of the tiger. Following this, the Forest Department has intensified surveillance and issued alerts across the affected areas.

Buffalo Killed, Tiger Disappears Into Forest

Concern among local residents has increased after the tiger reportedly killed a buffalo near Jharaput. An examination of pugmarks found at the spot confirmed the presence of the big cat. Its movements have also been recorded by trap cameras installed in the forest.

However, tracking the tiger’s exact movements and identifying its hiding place have emerged as major challenges for forest officials. The animal reportedly moves unpredictably, making it difficult for the department to locate it.

Rapid Response Team Deployed

The Forest Department has stepped up its efforts to monitor the tiger’s movements and prevent any untoward incident. Round-the-clock patrolling is being conducted in three shifts, while a Rapid Response Team has also been deployed.

Forest personnel have been placed on alert in the Semiliguda and Balda ranges to monitor the situation. Koraput DFO Siddhartha Kumar Jain shared these details during a press conference.

Meanwhile, the Forest Department has advised villagers to remain cautious but not panic. Residents have been urged to stay alert and follow the safety instructions issued by forest officials.

Fear Grips Villages in the Region

The presence of the Royal Bengal Tiger has created an atmosphere of fear in the Raspur Panchayat area. Sarpanch Pitambar Kirsani has also acknowledged the growing anxiety among villagers over the big cat’s presence.

Despite continuous surveillance through trap cameras and day-and-night patrolling, locating the tiger remains a major challenge for the Forest Department.

With the big cat still roaming freely in the forest, residents are anxiously waiting for its capture. The biggest question now is: When will the elusive tiger finally be tracked down?

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A major security scare has emerged in the Bollywood industry after Amitabh Bachchan’s famous bungalow, Jalsa, and the Bombay High Court reportedly received bomb threats. The threatening message was sent through email, prompting Mumbai Police and security agencies to step up security measures at several prominent locations across the city.

According to reports, the threat was not limited to the residence of Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan and the Bombay High Court. Several other prominent locations, including the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the Worli Racecourse, were also mentioned in the threatening email.

Following the incident, security agencies have been put on high alert. Police have launched an investigation to trace the origin of the email and identify the person responsible.

Amitabh Bachchan Receives Threat for the Second Time

This is reportedly the second incident in which Amitabh Bachchan’s name has been linked to a bomb threat.

Earlier, on October 22, a threatening email was sent to a school in Mumbai, in which the actor’s name was also mentioned. However, authorities had clarified at the time that Amitabh Bachchan had not received any direct threat.

The actor’s recent Sunday meeting with fans outside his residence also attracted attention. During the customary appearance, Amitabh Bachchan was seen standing behind bulletproof glass alongside his son, Abhishek Bachchan, reportedly as a security precaution.

Subsequently, the All Indian Cine Workers Association expressed concern over the safety of Bollywood celebrities and their families. The organisation also urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take appropriate steps to strengthen their security.

Which Locations Were on the Target List?

According to reports, the threatening email mentioned several high-profile locations in Mumbai.

These reportedly included:

• Amitabh Bachchan’s bungalow, Jalsa
• Bombay High Court
• Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE)
• Worli Racecourse

The threat has prompted authorities to strengthen security arrangements at these locations. Mumbai Police are also conducting a cyber investigation to determine the source of the email and establish the identity of the sender.

Ayushmann Khurrana and Tusshar Kapoor Also Received Threats

Threats against Bollywood celebrities are not new. Recently, actors Ayushmann Khurrana and Tusshar Kapoor also reportedly received bomb threats.

In the case involving Ayushmann Khurrana, the Mumbai Crime Branch arrested a suspect from Bengaluru. The accused was identified as an IT engineer.

Police also conducted an extensive investigation into the threat received by Tusshar Kapoor.

Security concerns surrounding Bollywood celebrities have increased following the reported shooting incident involving actor Tiger Shroff. These developments have sparked discussions about the possible return of underworld or organised criminal influence in the film industry.

Bombay High Court Also Under Security Alert

The Bombay High Court has also emerged as a major target in the latest threat. The sender reportedly threatened to blow up the court premises.

This is not the first time the Bombay High Court has received such a threat. In September 2025, the court received a similar threatening email, following which the premises were evacuated and an extensive search operation was conducted.

However, no suspicious object was found during that operation.

Following the latest threat, security arrangements at the Bombay High Court have been further tightened. Police and security agencies are investigating the matter to establish the credibility of the threat and identify those responsible.

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The US stock market witnessed a massive decline on Thursday, with artificial intelligence (AI)-related companies suffering the biggest losses. The combined market value of major Nasdaq-100 companies dropped by nearly $2.5 trillion in a single day. In Indian currency, this amounts to approximately Rs 236 lakh crore.

The sharp decline came amid growing concerns among investors that the Democratic Party’s major victory in the US midterm elections could lead to tighter government regulations on AI companies.

Investors are particularly worried about the possibility of new restrictions on data centre construction and delays in infrastructure development. Such measures could affect the expansion plans of major technology and AI companies.

Nasdaq Witnesses Massive Decline

According to media reports, the Nasdaq Composite Index plunged 5.5% after the market opened on Thursday. This is being described as its biggest single-day decline since the ‘Liberation Day’ market turmoil in April 2025.

AI-related stocks have continued to fall for the second consecutive day. The sell-off has also affected semiconductor and chip manufacturing companies.

The semiconductor index dropped nearly 12%, reaching its lowest level in more than six months. Meanwhile, shares of AI infrastructure company CoreWeave also declined by 10%.

The Nasdaq Composite Index has fallen approximately 12% since touching its record high on October 6.

A stock market index is generally considered to have entered correction territory when it falls 10% or more from its recent peak. With its latest decline, the Nasdaq Composite has entered this market correction phase.

Trump Blames Democrats for Market Crash

US President Donald Trump has also reacted to the sharp decline in the stock market. In a social media post, he claimed that the election results had led to one of the worst days in stock market history.

Trump blamed the Democrats for the market turmoil, arguing that the decline had also reduced the value of Americans’ 401(k) retirement accounts.

However, he expressed confidence that the US economy and stock market would recover soon.

In his post, Trump also took a swipe at the Democrats by referring to them as “Dumocrats”.

What Lies Ahead for AI Companies?

Investors are now closely monitoring the possibility of stricter regulations on artificial intelligence companies following the Democrats’ electoral victory.

The potential impact of new government policies on data centre construction and AI infrastructure expansion remains uncertain.

Any restrictions or delays in infrastructure development could affect the growth prospects of major AI companies and technology stocks.

For now, market participants are waiting for greater clarity on the government’s regulatory approach towards the AI industry. The developments could play a crucial role in determining the future direction of the US stock market.

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Gold and silver prices have witnessed a sharp increase ahead of Dhanteras, bringing fresh concerns for customers planning to purchase precious metals during the festive season. On November 4, gold prices surged by Rs 4,046, while silver prices increased by Rs 9,708.

According to the India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA), the price of 10 grams of 24-carat gold has reached Rs 1.42 lakh. Meanwhile, silver prices have climbed to Rs 1.86 lakh per kilogram.

Dhanteras will be celebrated on November 6 this year, and the sudden rise in precious metal prices may affect festive purchases.

Gold Becomes Rs 9,000 Costlier This Year

Gold and silver prices have witnessed significant fluctuations throughout the year. On December 31, 2025, the price of 10 grams of gold stood at Rs 1.33 lakh. It has now increased to Rs 1.42 lakh, marking a rise of approximately Rs 9,000 this year.

Silver Prices Decline by Rs 44,000

In contrast, silver prices have recorded a significant decline compared to the beginning of the year. On December 31, 2025, one kilogram of silver was priced at Rs 2.30 lakh. It has now fallen to Rs 1.86 lakh, registering a decline of around Rs 44,000.

However, both precious metals had touched record highs on January 29. Gold reached Rs 1.76 lakh per 10 grams, while silver surged to Rs 3.86 lakh per kilogram.

Experts Advise Buying Gold in Instalments

Commodity experts suggest that customers should avoid making large investments in gold and silver at one time. Instead, they recommend purchasing precious metals in instalments to minimise the risk of market fluctuations.

According to experts, buyers can purchase a portion of gold now and gradually invest at intervals of 15 to 20 days. For investment purposes, a longer time horizon of six months to one year is advisable rather than making decisions based on short-term price movements.

Keep These Two Things in Mind Before Buying Gold

Customers should keep two important factors in mind while purchasing gold.

First, always purchase BIS-hallmarked and certified gold to ensure its purity and quality. Hallmarking helps buyers identify the purity and caratage of gold.

Second, carefully verify the weight of the jewellery and the prevailing gold rate on the day of purchase. Prices vary depending on whether the gold is 24-carat, 22-carat or 18-carat.

With Dhanteras approaching, the sharp rise in gold and silver prices has become a concern for buyers. Customers are advised to check the latest rates, verify hallmark certification and make informed purchasing decisions before investing in precious metals.

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In a major festive relief for government employees and pensioners, the Haryana government has announced a 3% hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) after Diwali.

Following similar decisions by Punjab, Gujarat and Uttarakhand, the Haryana government has increased DA and DR from 60% to 63%. The revised rates will come into effect retrospectively from July 1, 2026.

According to the official order issued by Sudhir Rajpal, Additional Chief Secretary of the Finance Department, the decision will directly benefit approximately 5.38 lakh serving government employees and pensioners across the state.

The revised rates will apply to Haryana government employees, pensioners and family pensioners receiving salaries and pensions under the Seventh Pay Commission.

DA and DR Increased from 60% to 63%

Under the revised decision, both Dearness Allowance for serving employees and Dearness Relief for pensioners have been increased by 3 percentage points.

The revised rates will provide additional financial support to beneficiaries amid rising living costs.

Here are the key details of the announcement:

• DA/DR Hike: Increased from 60% to 63%.
• Effective Date: The revised rates will be applicable from July 1, 2026.
• Salary Payment: Serving employees will receive the increased DA with their November 2026 salary.
• Pension Payment: Pensioners will receive the increased DR along with their December 2026 pension.
• Four Months’ Arrears: Pending dues for July, August, September and October 2026 will be paid in a lump sum in January 2027.

What Is the Difference Between DA and DR?

Although Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) are often considered similar, they serve different categories of beneficiaries.

Dearness Allowance is paid to serving government employees as a percentage of their basic salary to compensate for the impact of inflation and rising living costs.

On the other hand, Dearness Relief is provided to retired government employees, including pensioners and family pensioners, based on their basic pension.

With this 3% increase, both serving employees and pensioners in Haryana will receive additional financial benefits. The decision is expected to provide significant relief to nearly 5.38 lakh beneficiaries across the state.

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Is former tennis star Sania Mirza planning to marry again at the age of 39? The sporting icon has recently sparked curiosity about her personal life after making some interesting revelations about dating and her single status. During a candid conversation, Sania joked that instead of inviting her for coffee dates, her male friends often include her in boys’ trips.

Sania, who has remained in the spotlight for both her sporting achievements and personal life, recently appeared on the show ‘Double Date’ hosted by Neha Dhupia and Angad Bedi. She was accompanied by filmmaker and close friend Farah Khan.

During the show, Sania spoke openly about her single life, friendships with men and her approach to relationships.

Sania Says She Is Happy Being Single

During the conversation, Sania made it clear that she is currently single and does not feel the need to have a special someone in her life.

In a light-hearted revelation, she said that some of her male friends invite her on boys’ trips rather than taking her out on conventional dates.

She also mentioned the names of former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh and actor Angad Bedi, explaining that she shares a brother-like bond with them.

Her comments offered a glimpse into her personal life and highlighted how comfortable she is with her current relationship status.

Farah Khan Makes a Funny Remark About Sania’s Single Status

Filmmaker Farah Khan also shared an interesting anecdote during the show. She revealed that some of her male friends often call her to ask whether Sania Mirza is still single.

Sania confirmed that she is currently unmarried.

Farah then made a witty remark about Sania’s personal life, questioning the assumption that being single means someone is not enjoying life.

Sania agreed with Farah’s perspective, indicating that she is happy enjoying life on her own terms.

Life After Separation From Shoaib Malik

Sania Mirza married Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik in 2010. The couple has a son together.

In 2024, reports of their separation emerged after Shoaib Malik married Pakistani actress Sana Javed.

Since then, Sania has largely maintained her privacy while focusing on her personal life and other pursuits.

Her recent appearance on ‘Double Date’ has once again brought her relationship status into the spotlight. However, she has made no announcement or confirmation about plans for a second marriage.

For now, the former tennis champion appears content with her single life, enjoying her friendships and making the most of her independence.

The post Sania Mirza Opens Up About Single Life and Dating, Sparks Remarriage Speculation at 39 appeared first on Odisha Connect.

In a major move to curb unnecessary government expenditure, the Odisha government has imposed restrictions on purchasing gifts using public funds during festivals and other celebrations.

Following the Centre’s ‘No Gift Policy’, the state government has prohibited all government departments and offices from spending public money on purchasing gifts and other items for festival-related occasions.

Under the new directive, government departments and offices will no longer be allowed to use official funds to purchase gifts or other materials during Diwali or any other festival throughout the year.

The restrictions have been implemented with immediate effect, signalling the state government’s intention to bring greater financial discipline to government spending.

Decision Based on Centre’s No-Gift Policy

According to official sources, the Odisha government has introduced the policy based on an order issued by the Central Government last year.

The directive will apply to all government departments and offices across the state, preventing them from using public funds for festival-related gift purchases.

The move is aimed at curbing unnecessary expenditure from the state treasury in the name of festivals and celebrations.

Focus on Financial Discipline

With the implementation of the No-Gift Policy, government departments will no longer be permitted to purchase gifts at public expense during festive occasions.

The decision is being viewed as an important step towards ensuring responsible utilisation of public money and maintaining financial discipline across government offices.

The move is also expected to discourage avoidable spending from the state exchequer and promote greater accountability in government expenditure.

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Voting has concluded in Andhra Pradesh’s areas bordering the disputed Kotia region of Odisha, triggering a fresh controversy over the participation of voters from the Kotia gram panchayat cluster. Following strong opposition from the Koraput district administration, Andhra Pradesh shifted its polling station to Sarika. While reports suggest that less than 10 per cent voting took place, Andhra Pradesh has reportedly claimed a 35 per cent voter turnout.

Amid the conflicting claims over voter turnout, Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan has indicated that the state government may take action against people from Kotia who participated in the Andhra Pradesh elections.

Despite objections from the Koraput administration, some residents of the Kotia gram panchayat cluster reportedly participated in Andhra Pradesh’s Zilla Parishad elections.

Reacting to the development, Harichandan said that leaders cutting across party lines had united over the Kotia issue and sent a strong message. However, some people ignored the appeal and participated in the elections conducted by Andhra Pradesh.

The minister said the government would examine the matter and take an appropriate decision. People who crossed the state border to cast their votes would be identified, and further action would be decided accordingly.

He added that some people might have participated due to a lack of awareness, while others could have been influenced by inducements from neighbouring Andhra Pradesh. The government believes action may be necessary against those who voluntarily participated in the elections.

Government to Examine Legal Aspects and SIR Issue

The Law Minister also said that the state government would examine the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) issue. The Revenue Department would collect relevant information and analyse the matter. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has also been informed about the developments.

Taking a swipe at the previous BJD government, Harichandan alleged that Odisha had lost several legal cases due to the failure of the previous administration to take timely steps.

He said the government would review all available legal aspects before deciding on the next course of action. The Revenue Department would conduct a detailed assessment, following which the government would take an appropriate decision.

Koraput Collector Rejects Andhra’s 35% Voting Claim

Meanwhile, Koraput Collector Manoj Satyaban Mahajan has rejected Andhra Pradesh’s claim of 35 per cent voter turnout in the Kotia region.

Speaking to the media, Mahajan clarified that the reported 35 per cent polling figure was incorrect and maintained that the actual voter turnout was less than 10 per cent.

There have also been conflicting reports and figures regarding the number of votes cast. While one set of claims refers to approximately 850 votes, another report mentions a difference of 1,021 votes.

The Collector said that the figures and claims surrounding the polling require independent verification.

The controversy has once again brought the long-standing Odisha-Andhra Pradesh territorial dispute over Kotia into focus, with the Odisha government now considering its next steps.

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