Centre Issues Gazette Notification

The Government of India has officially declared Amaravati as the permanent capital of Andhra Pradesh. The decision was confirmed through a gazette notification issued on April 6, 2026, bringing clarity to the state’s capital status.

President Murmu Approves Amendment Bill

The move comes after President Droupadi Murmu gave her assent to the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026. The bill, which was passed in Parliament last week, formally recognizes Amaravati as the sole capital of the state.

Parliament Clears the Bill

The legislation received approval from both Houses of Parliament. The Rajya Sabha passed the bill through a voice vote, while the Lok Sabha had cleared it a day earlier. A total of 35 Members of Parliament participated in the debate.

End of Three-Capital Model Debate

The new law amends the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014 and effectively puts an end to the long-standing political debate over the proposed three-capital model. With this decision, any future attempts to shift or introduce multiple capitals are now unlikely.

Political Reactions and Opposition

While most political parties supported the bill, members of the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) opposed it. They argued that the decision undermines the interests of farmers who had contributed land for the development of the capital region.

Background: From Proposal to Final Decision

The foundation for Amaravati as the capital was first laid in 2015 during the tenure of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP). However, after the YSRCP came to power in 2019, development projects in Amaravati were halted, and a three-capital model was proposed.

Return of Amaravati as Sole Capital

Following the return of the TDP-led NDA government in 2024, the decision was revisited. The government reinstated Amaravati as the sole capital and resumed stalled development projects last year.

A New Chapter for Andhra Pradesh

With the official declaration now in place, Amaravati is set to function as the permanent administrative capital of Andhra Pradesh, marking a significant political and developmental milestone for the state.

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War Between US and Iran Disrupts Global Routes

The ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran have begun to impact several countries beyond the conflict zone. One of the most affected nations is Pakistan, which is facing a growing economic and humanitarian crisis.

The closure of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz due to the conflict has disrupted global oil supply chains, worsening the situation for import-dependent economies like Pakistan.

Fuel Crisis Deepens Across the Country

Pakistan is currently grappling with a severe fuel crisis. Petrol and diesel prices have surged significantly in recent weeks, creating widespread public concern. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is facing mounting pressure to stabilize fuel prices.

Although there has been a slight reduction after public backlash, fuel costs remain high, affecting transportation and daily life across the country.

Rising Debt Burden Worsens Economic Strain

Another major challenge for Pakistan is its rising debt burden. The government has taken loans from multiple sources, including the International Monetary Fund (IMF), but the financial crisis continues to deepen.

Reports suggest that creditors are increasing pressure for repayments, while new funding options are becoming limited. Additionally, the United Arab Emirates has reportedly demanded repayment of billions in financial assistance, adding to Pakistan’s economic stress.

Inflation Hits Essential Commodities

The impact of the crisis is being felt most by ordinary citizens. Prices of essential commodities such as flour, rice, pulses, milk, and cooking oil have surged sharply.

Inflation has reached around 7.3%, making daily necessities increasingly unaffordable. The rising cost of living has severely disrupted normal life, pushing many households into financial distress.

Weak Economy Faces Further Risk

Experts warn that the ongoing Middle East conflict could further weaken Pakistan’s already fragile economy. Former finance officials have indicated that if global crude oil prices remain above $100 per barrel, Pakistan’s GDP could decline by 1–1.5%.

Increased petroleum import costs could lead to losses of up to $12–14 billion in the coming year, putting additional strain on the national economy.

Energy Crisis Forces Strict Measures

Pakistan is also facing a severe energy crisis, prompting the government to implement strict conservation measures. In a move similar to pandemic-era restrictions, authorities have reduced government spending and introduced energy-saving policies.

Public offices have cut expenses, meetings are being held virtually, and online education is being encouraged to conserve electricity.

Markets to Shut Early Amid Power Shortage

In a significant step, the government has ordered markets and shopping malls to close by 8 PM to reduce electricity consumption. This decision highlights the severity of the energy shortage, with many areas expected to face darkness soon after evening hours.

A Nation Under Pressure

With rising fuel costs, growing debt, soaring inflation, and an energy crisis, Pakistan is currently battling multiple challenges at once. The situation remains critical, and its resolution largely depends on global developments and domestic economic management.

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Discussion Held at Naveen Niwas

Legislators and senior party functionaries of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) from Jajpur district met party president Naveen Patnaik at Naveen Niwas on Tuesday morning. The meeting focused on the changing political scenario in the district, organizational activities, and developmental issues.

Concerns Over Development Slowdown

According to a press statement issued by party sources, leaders expressed concern over an alleged slowdown in development work in Jajpur after the new government assumed office. They claimed that governance and execution of projects in the district have been adversely affected.

Allegations Against BJP Government

The BJD leaders also alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government has curtailed the powers of elected representatives in panchayats and urban local bodies. They stated that this has worsened administrative efficiency and hindered grassroots-level governance.

Law and Order Situation Raised

Party members further highlighted a deterioration in the law and order situation in the district, attributing it to increased political interference. They expressed concern that common people, especially women, are feeling increasingly unsafe.

Naveen Patnaik Expresses Concern

Taking note of these issues, Naveen Patnaik expressed deep concern over the situation. He advised party leaders and workers to continue serving the people despite challenging circumstances.

Call to Strengthen Party Organization

Patnaik also shared his strategic views on strengthening the party’s organizational structure at the grassroots level. He emphasized unity and coordinated efforts to address current challenges.

Key Leaders Present at the Meeting

Prominent leaders who attended the meeting included Opposition Chief Whip Pramila Mallik, Bari MLA Biswaranjan Mallik, Jajpur MLA Sujata Sahu, former minister Pranab Prakash Das, Pritiranjan Ghadai, former MP Sarmistha Sethi, former MLA Pranab Balabantaray, and Captain S.K. Mohapatra, among others.

Commitment to Public Service

Despite the prevailing political challenges, BJD leaders reiterated their commitment to continue serving the people of Jajpur and addressing their concerns effectively.

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Focus on Safe and Inclusive Learning Environment

The Odisha government has issued important directives to strengthen sanitation and menstrual hygiene practices in schools across the state. The initiative aims to create a safe, hygienic, and inclusive learning environment for all students. District Collectors have been instructed to ensure strict implementation of hygiene measures in both government and private schools.

Mandatory Sanitation Infrastructure in Schools

As per the guidelines, all schools must ensure the availability of separate toilets for boys and girls. In addition, uninterrupted water supply, proper handwashing facilities, and overall cleanliness must be maintained at all times. The government has emphasized strict adherence to sanitation standards to promote student health and well-being.

Special Focus on Accessibility and Privacy

The directives also highlight the need for inclusive facilities for children with disabilities. Schools are required to provide easy access to sanitation facilities and ensure privacy, particularly for girls. This step aims to make school environments more equitable and supportive for every student.

Free Distribution of Sanitary Napkins

A key component of the initiative is the provision of free sanitary napkins to girl students. These will be made available through vending machines or designated distribution points within schools, ensuring easy and safe access.

Introduction of Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) Corners

Schools have also been directed to establish Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) corners. These dedicated spaces will provide students with essential information, guidance, and support related to menstrual health and hygiene.

Promoting Health, Dignity, and Awareness

The government’s initiative focuses on improving students’ physical and mental well-being. By ensuring proper sanitation, menstrual hygiene support, and inclusive infrastructure, the policy aims to enhance dignity, awareness, and overall school experience.

Key Objectives of the Policy

• Ensure clean and hygienic school environments
• Support menstrual hygiene and safety for students
• Promote equality and inclusive education

A Step Towards Better Future

With strict implementation of these guidelines, schools across Odisha are expected to provide a safer and healthier environment for students. This initiative will play a crucial role in improving health outcomes and fostering a more inclusive educational system in the long run.

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Growing Factionalism Reaches Peak
The internal conflict within the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has reportedly reached its peak, with rising tensions within the party following its setback in the 2024 general elections. The situation has intensified with allegations of internal power struggles and leadership maneuvering within the party.

Resignation of Rajya Sabha Leader Sparks Debate
In a significant development, Rajya Sabha leader Sasmit Patra has stepped down from his position as the leader of the party in the Upper House. His resignation has triggered widespread discussions within political circles, with many questioning whether he was forced to resign or stepped down voluntarily. Patra had been serving in the role since July 2022.

Allegations of Internal Power Politics
Party insiders suggest that the resignation may be linked to internal party dynamics and influence wielded by BJD’s unofficial power center, VK Pandian. It is alleged that Pandian’s close associate, MP Manas Mangaraj, played a role in orchestrating efforts to remove Patra from his post. However, there has been no official confirmation of these claims.

Confusion Over Leadership Transition
Sources within the party indicate that a group of MPs had written to party supremo Naveen Patnaik requesting Patra’s removal. While Patra reportedly submitted a written resignation to the party leadership, clarity remains lacking on whether the decision was accepted or communicated to the Rajya Sabha Chairman.

Controversy Around Replacement and Roles
With the induction of new Rajya Sabha MP Santrupta Mishra, discussions have emerged about a possible restructuring within the party’s parliamentary and organizational roles. Speculation is rife that Mishra may be assigned responsibilities in Delhi, while Mangaraj could play a key role in Odisha-based party affairs.

Pandian’s Alleged Strategic Influence
VK Pandian is said to be actively shaping internal party strategy behind the scenes. Reports suggest that he has been meeting party leaders and assigning roles to his close associates, thereby consolidating influence over party operations.

Concerns Over Marginalization of Senior Leaders
The ongoing developments have raised concerns within the party regarding the sidelining of senior and experienced leaders. Critics argue that such moves could weaken the party’s internal structure and long-term stability.

Growing Discontent Within the Party
The situation has led to increasing dissatisfaction among party members, with many questioning the rationale behind these decisions. Observers believe that the recent leadership changes and internal power shifts could further intensify factionalism within the BJD in the coming days.

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Funds Fail to Deliver Intended Benefits
A government initiative aimed at reducing poverty in tribal regions through backyard poultry farming has reportedly failed to achieve its objectives. A significant portion of the funds allocated for the scheme has gone unutilized or yielded poor outcomes, with beneficiaries neither able to sustain poultry units nor effectively use financial assistance meant for infrastructure development.

CAG Audit Reveals Ground-Level Failures
The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), in its recent audit report, highlighted serious irregularities in the implementation of the scheme between 2019 and 2024. During this period, around ₹12.76 crore was spent by 15 Micro Project Agencies (MPAs) to support nearly 34,000 beneficiaries. The assistance included supply of chicks, layer birds, and iron cages.

However, the audit found that out of 124 beneficiaries surveyed, 95 reported that the chicks provided to them did not survive. In some cases, beneficiaries stated that not even 5 out of 20 chicks survived, indicating poor quality or lack of proper care and support systems.

Lack of Training and Monitoring
The report also pointed out the absence of proper training and documentation. There were no records to confirm that beneficiaries received guidance on poultry care, feeding, breeding, or disease management from veterinary officials. This lack of capacity building further contributed to the failure of the initiative.

Infrastructure Created but Left Unused
In another concerning finding, 11 self-help groups were given nearly ₹24 lakh to construct poultry sheds with a capacity of 1,000 birds each, along with an additional ₹5.18 lakh to purchase poultry. However, none of these groups actually procured birds. In several locations, the constructed sheds remained unused for over a year, reflecting poor planning and execution.

Scheme Impact Falls Short of Goals
The scheme was designed to economically empower primitive tribal groups by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities. However, due to weak monitoring and lack of follow-up, it has largely failed to deliver results. Authorities had to suspend further supply of chicks to prevent additional financial losses.

Call for Accountability and Reform
The findings underline the urgent need for better implementation, monitoring, and accountability mechanisms. Experts suggest that without proper training, supervision, and evaluation, such welfare schemes risk becoming ineffective, defeating their core purpose of uplifting vulnerable communities.

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The East Coast Railway (ECoR) has recorded its highest-ever scrap disposal revenue of ₹290.22 crore in the financial year 2025–26, marking a major milestone in resource management and operational efficiency.

Surpasses Target with Strong Growth

The रेलवे zone exceeded the Railway Board target of ₹260 crore by ₹30.22 crore, achieving an impressive 11.62% increase over the assigned goal.

Additionally, the latest figures represent a 7.77% growth compared to the previous year’s best performance of around ₹269.3 crore, highlighting consistent improvement in revenue generation.

Swachhata Drives Boost Performance

Officials credited the achievement to sustained Swachhata Drives conducted across divisions, workshops, and loco sheds under the “Swachhata Hi Seva” campaign. These initiatives have not only enhanced cleanliness but also improved safety standards and operational efficiency.

Efficient Scrap Disposal and E-Auction Process

A major factor behind the success has been systematic monitoring and transparent e-auction processes. The coordinated efforts of various departments, particularly the Stores Department, ensured effective disposal of scrap materials.

This streamlined approach helped convert unused and condemned assets into substantial financial returns.

Key Contributions to Record Revenue

The record-breaking revenue was driven by the disposal of large volumes of scrap, including over 40,342 metric tonnes of condemned rails and permanent way materials, more than 5 lakh PSC sleepers, and significant quantities of ferrous scrap.

Additionally, condemned rolling stock such as electric and diesel locomotives, coaches, and wagons were auctioned efficiently.

Focus on Sustainability and Efficiency

ECoR emphasized that efficient scrap disposal remains a priority area, as it not only generates revenue but also supports environmental sustainability. Cleaner premises, safer workplaces, and better asset utilization are key outcomes of these efforts.

Setting a Benchmark for Indian Railways

With this achievement, East Coast Railway has set a benchmark for other zones under Indian Railways. The milestone reflects its commitment to financial prudence, operational excellence, and sustainable practices.

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