My City Links

Book excerpt: As City Life Takes A Toll, People Look To Nature To Rejuvenate That Odisha has several hidden gems when it comes to natural beauty is something that has been talked about for years. Now, thanks to the recent initiatives by the government, Eco-Tourism has become the buzzword for thousands of people as they plan their next getaway. While existing nature camps and sites are now becoming popular thanks to the publicity they are receiving, several new facilities will also come up soon across the state. In our Cover Story, we speak to travellers, government officials, and members of the hospitality industry about the destinations that are creating a buzz these days. We also bring you snapshots from the state’s first eco-tourism village in Satkosia, a popular destination in recent years. Climate Change is a reality that can no longer be wished away. A survey by Climate Central has warned that large areas of India’s coastal regions, including Odisha, will be under the sea by 2050. The effects of climate change, however, have been visible for several decades. We talk to environmentalists about the grim situation and the urgent steps needed to tackle the crisis in City Beat. Farming is a sector that one usually doesn’t expect young entrepreneurs to be interested in. There are exceptions, though. Our Cityzens for this edition are shining examples of how technology and communication can be used to benefit farmers. Three youths have taken time out from their respective full-time jobs to launch a YouTube channel that trains farmers in different types of farming. The Showcase Odisha Awards, conceptualised by Prelude Novel Ventures, has travelled to several cities in India. This time, it was its turn to go global as it headed to Toronto, Canada. The awards function was held on 16 November to coincide with the celebration of Boita Bandana with the Odia community there. We bring you all the details in City Lights. The section also showcases how cancer survivors turned showstoppers for a noble cause. In Fashion Lifestyle, you can find some useful tips on how to be a trendsetter this winter. We also catch up with 15-year-old Lavanya Das who won the Indian Icon 2019 title recently. Popular singer KK is no stranger to Odisha and has performed at several events over the years. He set the stage on fire at the latest edition of the Balijatra. In Transit Lounge, he opens up about his career and his association with Odisha.