The Newswave

Why IT Professionals in India Shifting Focus on Farming? Himansu Rout  In recent years, a notable trend has emerged in India: IT professionals, often dubbed "techies," are ditching high-paying corporate jobs for farming, particularly organic agriculture. This shift, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, reflects a quest for fulfillment, sustainability, and balance amid urban burnout. Stories of successful transitions highlight why this preference is growing. Reasons: First, the relentless stress of IT careers drives many to seek mental peace and work-life balance. For instance, Someshwar Singh, an IT worker, returned to his Uttar Pradesh village during lockdowns, finding solace in farming papayas on four acres, earning Rs 15 lakh annually while retaining his job.  Similarly, Suresh Devang quit his US-based software role, inspired by health benefits of organic produce and family roots, to farm in Mysuru, yielding Rs 6 lakhs in profits with water-efficient methods. ...

BJD faces Uncertain Future? Politico-Mafia Scramble for Space as BJP Gains Ground Himansu Rout  If some Insiders within the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) are to be believed, there is growing unease among leaders about the party’s prospects after Naveen Patnaik’s leadership.  After a significant electoral setback, Naveen is reportedly unable to revitalize the party over the next four years. Meanwhile, the Mohan Majhi-led BJP government is aggressively expanding its influence, penetrating former BJD and Congress strongholds. Daily defections of grassroots Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) members and BJD workers to the BJP in most parts of the state have left regional party leaders anxious about their political survival.  Prominent BJD figures and associated politico-mafia elements, driven by self-interest, are desperate to secure their political relevance as the BJP aims to solidify its rule beyond 2029. In this volatile scenario, some BJD leaders, including women leaders, are voca...

Hills in Odisha's Jajpur Bear The Brunt of Wanton Mining Himansu Rout Once a modest hill enhancing the scenic beauty along the Kolha-Aruha border in Odisha’s Jajpur district, the area now bears the scars of unchecked mining. What remains is a massive water-filled crater, eerily resembling a lake — a stark reminder of the ecological toll. As Odisha accelerated its infrastructure development, the demand for construction materials like stone boulders and chips surged. This created a lucrative opportunity for the stone mafia, who swiftly targeted the region’s hills. Mining operations expanded rapidly, often without regard for environmental norms.  Mafia along with some unscrupulous officials allegedly made big  bucks at the cost of the state coffers. With massive black money, the mining lobby was accused of bankrolling the elections of a particular party. It wasn't until concerned social activists raised alarms and pursued legal action that the illegal ac...

Kusuma Lake and Barunabant Hill: A Hidden Gem Rises from Odisha’s Mining Scars Barunabant Hill, tucked away in Barchana block of Jajpur district in coastal Odisha, has witnessed a remarkable transformation. Once marked by deep craters from years of laterite mining near the village of Bhusandhpur, the hill's foothills were a damaged but lush green landscape—ripe for revival. The turnaround began when a local PRI member recognized the area's untapped potential. Situated near well-known pilgrimage spots like the Mhavinayak Temple and Maa Chandi Mandir—both nestled in the folds of Barunabant and even mentioned in the Mahabharata for their natural surroundings—the site offered more than just ruins. With community backing, the PRI member spearheaded the creation of a park, adding basic infrastructure and landscaping the abandoned mines. A cluster of four to five craters was artistically reshaped into a beautiful water body, now known as Kusuma Lake. Fed by rai...