Popularly known as the land of Lord Jagannath, Odisha is the tenth largest state of India in terms of area and is located in the northeastern Indian peninsula. Odisha, once a land of kings and kingdoms, is known for its rich natural resources, temple architecture, cultural heritage, classical dance, tribal people and festivals.
Till 1949, the capital of Odisha was Cuttack and a few years later, Bhubaneswar was made the capital city of the state. In 2011, the state's name was officially changed from Orissa to Odisha. Formerly known as Kalinga, the state has a coastline of 485 kilometers along the Bay of Bengal and Odia is its official language. The state was formed on April 1, 1936, comprising of Odia-speaking districts of Bihar and Orrisa province and every year, this day is celebrated as Utkala Dibasa.
The tribals constitute two-fifth of the population of Odisha and the state is endowed with varieties of rich mineral resources and reforms in industralisation in recent years have made it as an epicenter for industrial growth. The beaches of Puri, Lord Jagannath Temple, Lingaraj temple, Sun temple, Chilka Lake, Simlipal National Park, Hirakud Dam (longest eastern dam) and others make it a popular tourist destination.
Odisha is also home to some renowned universities and has been an important educational hub since ancient times. The state boasts of prestigious NIT Rourkela, Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology, Biju Patnaik University of Technology and other important institutes.
The major point of attraction in Odisha is the Lord Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra or the Chariot Festival, a 15-day long affair when devotees throng the temple to seek the blessings of the deities.
Since the 1999 Odisha super cyclone, India has improved cyclone disaster preparedness using advanced forecasting and rapid evacuation measures. Challenges remain in post-disaster recovery.
Cyclone Murasu made landfall near Ongole along the South Andhra coast, bringing heavy rainfall, inundating low-lying areas, and causing widespread damage across districts. Following the landfall, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu held a teleconference with senior officials and district collectors to review the situation. Naidu directed officials to prioritise the restoration of drinking water supply, electricity, and road connectivity, while affected families were relocated to shelter homes. The storm, which is the second cyclone to strike the state within seven days, has begun weakening significantly as it moves inland towards Telangana, also impacting parts of Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh.
After the devastation caused by Cyclone Arnub on October 28, India's east coast is bracing for a second cyclonic storm in less than a week. The deep depression over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into Cyclone Murasu, prompting southern Odisha to issue a high alert and step up preparedness. The India Meteorological Department has projected that the cyclone is likely to make landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast, specifically between Nellore and Bapatla, with effects extending toward Srikakulam. Coastal regions in Andhra Pradesh are bracing for the impact as authorities ramp up safety measures.
A mega victory parade highlighted the decisive elimination of armed Maoist terror across the red corridor, celebrating the valor of central paramilitary and state police forces. From Chhattisgarh's District Reserve Guard to Andhra Pradesh and Telangana Greyhounds, Maharashtra's C-60, and Bihar STF, anti-Naxal commando contingents marked major milestones in restoring peace across conflict-hit zones. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the brave personnel involved in operations that reclaimed territory from Maoist insurgents. Operations by elite forces, supported by specialized sniffer dogs, led to thousands of surrenders, arrests, and the neutralisation of armed cadres while honouring the supreme sacrifice of fallen security jawans.
National Unity Day celebrations at Ekta Nagar in Gujarat featured a grand parade and cultural presentations, highlighted by a special theatrical performance titled 'Naxal Mukt Bharat'. Conceptualised, written, and directed by National School of Drama Director Chittaranjan Tripathy, the production brought together NSD Repertory members alongside tribal artists from states including Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. The performance depicted the genesis of the Naxalite movement from Naxalbari in 1967, tracing its spread across the red corridor, the violence and extortion endured by local communities, and the eventual restoration of peace and development through security operations. The broadcast highlighted the pivotal role played by Central Armed Police Forces—including CRPF's CoBRA unit, BSF, ITBP, and SSB—and state police contingents in setting up forward operating bases in strongholds like Abujhmad, driving surrenders, and enabling skill development and road construction in tribal regions.
The Ekta Parade showcased India's elite security forces celebrating the achievement of a Naxal-free India. The march past featured Shaurya Chakra recipients from the CRPF and Jammu and Kashmir Police, including Deputy Commandant Anjani Kumar, Constable Deepak Sah, Assistant Commandant Vipin Wilson, DSP Dheeraj Singh Katoch, DSP Sukhbir Singh, Inspector Ajay Singh Chib, and Sub-Inspector Niaz Ahmed. Led by Parade Commander SP Subodh Ramesh Mankar and 2IC DSP Brij Kishore Yadav, specialized anti-Naxal units from across the country participated, including Chhattisgarh's District Reserve Guard, CISF, Andhra Pradesh Greyhounds, ITBP, Bihar STF, SSB, Jharkhand Jaguar, Karnataka ANF, Kerala SOG, Madhya Pradesh Hawk Force, Odisha SOG, Maharashtra C60, and West Bengal CIF. The commentary highlighted the bravery and supreme sacrifices made by personnel in dismantling the Red Corridor, transitioning from severe Left-Wing Extremism to widespread peace, unity, and development.
Cyclone Arnaud completed its landfall process near the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coast, weakening from a very severe cyclonic storm to a severe cyclonic storm. Gusty winds reaching up to 135 to 150 kilometres per hour, accompanied by heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, impacted coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and parts of northern Tamil Nadu. Widespread waterlogging, overflowing canals, and uprooted trees were reported across several low-lying areas, causing vehicular damage and commuter disruption. Authorities prioritised a zero-fatality objective, leading to extensive pre-emptive evacuations with approximately 85,000 residents relocated to safer high-rise areas and relief centres across vulnerable districts. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has been closely monitoring the situation as rescue personnel and ground authorities work to clear blocked roads and manage drainage. Weather officials warned that despite weakening, coastal regions remain vulnerable to post-landfall cyclonic storm surges and heavy rainfall over the subsequent 24 hours.
Cyclone Michaung has triggered widespread destruction across coastal Andhra Pradesh as the landfall process reaches completion. Severe winds and torrential rains have lashed districts including Kakinada, Machilipatnam, and Konaseema, uprooting decades-old trees, damaging vehicles, and blocking roadways. The India Meteorological Department has issued continued red alerts across several coastal districts, with warnings of intense storm surges and gusty winds reaching up to 140 km/h. Flight and railway services have experienced disruptions, prompting advisories for residents to stay indoors and avoid travelling to severely affected coastal zones. State administration and emergency response teams remain deployed on the ground to prevent loss of life, clear debris, and provide necessary medical aid across impacted areas.
A cyclone landfall process is underway between Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh and Yanam in Puducherry, triggering heavy rainfall and gusty winds across eastern coastal states including West Bengal, Odisha, and Tamil Nadu. Uprooted trees have blocked national highways and damaged several vehicles, with visuals showing destruction in Visakhapatnam and Odisha's Ganjam. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu is monitoring live updates as low-lying areas are evacuated and disaster response teams deployed. The storm is projected to weaken as it advances towards Telangana.
A severe cyclonic storm has triggered heavy rainfall, gusty winds reaching up to 150 kilometres per hour, and rough sea conditions across the eastern coastline, including Odisha, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry. Landfall is underway along the Andhra Pradesh coast, which is projected to face the maximum impact over the crucial next few hours. In Odisha, districts such as Ganjam, Gajapati, Malkangiri, Nabarangpur, and Koraput have experienced torrential rains and uprooted trees blocking key road networks. Emergency rescue teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), alongside district administrations and senior officials, have been deployed to clear blocked roads and restore connectivity. While wind intensity is shifting away from Odisha towards Andhra Pradesh, the India Meteorological Department has issued warnings for heavy to very heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across several districts, advising citizens to remain in safe locations as authorities monitor the situation closely.
Andhra Pradesh and Odisha are bracing for severe weather as Cyclone Ornab initiates landfall alongside an emerging depression. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu is monitoring the situation in real time, advising people to remain indoors, follow advisories, and postpone travel to affected areas, while state machinery prepares drone food delivery to minimise losses. Concurrently, southern Odisha districts including Ganjam, Gajapati, and Malkangiri are witnessing heavy rainfall and gusty winds reaching 70 to 80 km/h, with ground reports from Gopalpur confirming severe coastal impacts.
A cyclonic storm has begun its landfall process along the coastal regions of Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry's Yanam, with heavy rainfall and strong winds impacting areas such as Ongole and Kakinada. The landfall is expected to conclude within two to three hours. Severe effects are also being witnessed across Konaseema and the Godavari belt, where fallen trees and cyclonic storm surges have been reported. Andhra Pradesh authorities have advised the public to remain indoors until 9:00 am, deploying nearly 85,000 personnel, with the state government directing officials to ensure minimal or zero loss of life. Neighbouring Odisha has also intensified preparations to achieve zero casualties, evacuating more than 45,000 people from vulnerable zones, including over 700 residents from low-lying areas in Gopalpur. Odisha has deployed NDRF and ODRaF personnel across alert districts, including Ganjam and Gajapati, while district administrations have vacated beaches, hoisted red warning flags, and barred fishermen from venturing into the sea.
A severe cyclone approaching the Andhra Pradesh coast is expected to complete landfall within four to five hours, with predictions placing the impact zone between Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam. The Andhra Pradesh government has initiated extensive preparedness measures, relocating residents across more than 1,500 locations and establishing multiple control centres. Government officials have urged citizens to exercise caution as the storm system approaches. The cyclone's impact also extends to neighbouring Odisha and Tamil Nadu, where coastal areas, including Chennai, are witnessing significant sea unrest and rough conditions.
Cyclone Arnab has intensified into a very severe cyclonic storm over the Bay of Bengal and is heading northwestwards towards the Andhra Pradesh coast, with landfall expected on 28th October between Yanam and Visakhapatnam. Wind speeds are forecast to reach between 120 and 150 kilometres per hour, prompting the India Meteorological Department to issue a red alert for coastal districts including Kakinada, Machilipatnam, Yanam, Visakhapatnam, and Srikakulam, as well as parts of Odisha. The Andhra Pradesh government has declared holidays for schools and colleges across vulnerable districts and released 27 crore rupees for emergency response. Authorities are undertaking large-scale evacuations of low-lying and flood-prone areas, prioritising elderly residents and pregnant women. Rescue teams from the National Disaster Response Force and State Disaster Response Force have been deployed, while the Armed Forces, Navy, and Coast Guard remain on standby. Precautionary flood-prevention measures are also underway in neighbouring Tamil Nadu and Puducherry to ensure zero casualties.
Cyclone Arnab has intensified into a very severe cyclonic storm over the Bay of Bengal and is heading towards the east coast of India. The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert across Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha, forecasting heavy to extremely heavy rainfall with maximum sustained wind speeds reaching 115 to 125 kilometres per hour, gusting up to 140 kilometres per hour. Landfall is expected along the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam. In response to the impending disaster, National Disaster Response Force teams have been deployed across multiple states, while the Indian Navy and Coast Guard remain on standby. Coastal administrations have initiated evacuations from low-lying areas, set up temporary relief shelters, and declared holidays for schools and colleges. Fishermen have been strictly directed to avoid venturing out into the sea as authorities aim for zero casualties.
Cyclone Arnab has intensified into a very severe cyclonic storm over the Bay of Bengal, putting Andhra Pradesh and Odisha on high alert ahead of an expected landfall between Visakhapatnam and Bapatla. The India Meteorological Department has warned of sustained wind speeds reaching 115 to 125 km/h, gusting up to 140 km/h, alongside storm surges and heavy rainfall. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu reviewed preparedness and released 27 crore rupees for cyclone response, directing officials to issue regular alerts and secure reservoirs. Precautionary measures are also underway in Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Telangana, and Puducherry. Disaster management forces, including the National Disaster Response Force, State Disaster Response Force, Navy, and Coast Guard, have been deployed and placed on standby. Police have cordoned off coastal stretches like Kakinada beach, while schools and colleges in several districts have been closed ahead of landfall.
India's eastern coast is on high alert as Cyclone Arnab intensifies over the Bay of Bengal, with landfall expected near the Andhra Pradesh coast during the forenoon of 28 October 2026. The India Meteorological Department warned of maximum sustained wind speeds reaching 115 to 125 kilometres per hour, gusting up to 140 kilometres per hour, alongside waves rising above 14 metres. In response, fifteen NDRF teams, along with the Navy and Coast Guard, have been mobilised, while flood-prone regions are being evacuated. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu reviewed preparedness and released 27 crore rupees for response operations. Officials have been directed to issue regular alerts, prepare reservoirs for floodwaters, and ensure uninterrupted power and essential supplies.
This news broadcast covers key regional, national, and international developments. Cyclone Arnab has intensified in the Bay of Bengal, prompting red alerts in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu, leading Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu to coordinate NDRF deployment and evacuations. In Tamil Nadu, flood mitigation inspections took place at Chembarambakkam Lake, while police arrested former School Education Minister and DMK leader Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi over an alleged school approval bribery case. Political debates also focused on actor Dhanush following his outreach meeting with women fan club members. In entertainment and legal news, representatives for Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna lodged a cybercrime complaint in Hyderabad concerning fabricated online material. Meanwhile, public outrage in Kerala followed the granting of bail to a minor involved in a fatal vehicle collision. Additionally, Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar cautioned IT firms regarding local hiring practices, and US political discussions addressed remarks made by Donald Trump regarding singer Nicki Minaj.
A deep depression over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into Cyclone Arnob and is expected to turn into a very severe cyclonic storm before crossing the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coast. Authorities in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and West Bengal have sounded alerts, with coastal districts bracing for wind speeds between 120 and 150 kilometres per hour, rough seas, and intense rainfall. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu conducted a virtual review meeting to assess ground preparations, directing state machinery, the armed forces, police officials, and National Disaster Response Force teams to remain on standby. Precautionary evacuations have commenced in vulnerable coastal regions including Kakinada, Konaseema, and Visakhapatnam, prioritising pregnant women, elderly individuals, and citizens needing medical care. Fishermen have been warned against venturing out to sea as the meteorological department forecasts landfall around 28 October, with the administration targeting zero casualties through round-the-clock monitoring and disaster preparedness.
