24, Mar 2026
Indian Railways Updates Ticket Cancellation and Refund Rules
Indian Railways has revised its ticket cancellation and refund guidelines to improve transparency, reduce misuse, and make seat allocation more efficient for passengers.
Under the updated system, refund eligibility will now depend on how early a passenger cancels their ticket before the train’s departure.
Revised Refund Structure
As per the new rules:
- Tickets cancelled 72 hours or more before departure will be eligible for up to 75% refund, after deduction of applicable charges.
- Cancellations made between 72 and 24 hours before departure will allow around 25% refund.
- If a ticket is cancelled between 24 and 8 hours, passengers may receive approximately 50% refund.
- No refund will be granted if cancellation is done within 8 hours of departure.
Officials say the revised structure is designed to discourage last-minute cancellations that often lead to seat blocking and reduce availability for other passengers.
Greater Flexibility for Boarding Point Changes
Along with refund reforms, Indian Railways has also introduced a passenger-friendly update allowing changes to the boarding station.
Passengers can now modify their boarding point up to 30 minutes before departure, offering greater flexibility, especially for those travelling from cities with multiple railway stations.
Earlier, such changes were permitted only until chart preparation. The new rule extends convenience closer to departure time.
Aim: Prevent Misuse and Improve Efficiency
Railway officials have stated that the updated policy also aims to curb irregular practices by ticket agents and bulk booking operators who sometimes reserve and cancel tickets repeatedly for unfair advantage.
By tightening cancellation rules, Indian Railways hopes to ensure fair access to confirmed seats and improve overall booking system efficiency.
Significance of the New Policy
The revised rules are important because they:
- Promote fair ticket availability for genuine passengers
- Reduce last-minute cancellations and seat wastage
- Improve transparency in refund calculations
- Strengthen system efficiency and booking discipline
- Offer better flexibility for boarding adjustments
Conclusion
The new cancellation and refund framework marks a step toward a more structured and efficient railway booking system. While stricter in approach, the policy is designed to enhance fairness, reduce misuse, and improve travel convenience for millions of passengers across India.
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- By Neel Achary
24, Mar 2026
Climate Narrative Hub Launches Guide to Support Context-Rich Reporting on Human–Wildlife Interactions on International Day of Forests
New Delhi, Mar 24: Climate Narrative Hub (CNH), an initiative by Dasra and Momentum Shifts, in collaboration with the Rainmatter Foundation, has launched a new guide to support journalists and content creators in reporting on human–wildlife interactions with greater context, clarity, and on-ground understanding. Released on the International Day of Forests, the manual aims to strengthen storytelling around how communities and wildlife share landscapes across India.
Co-created with a coalition including – Network for Conserving Central India, Wildlife Conservation Society–India, Coexistence Consortium, The Corbett Foundation, Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy, and The Nature Conservancy – this handbook moves beyond episodic reporting tied only to moments of crisis and instead seeks to build a richer understanding of one of the most complex environmental and social challenges facing many regions today.
In doing so, it encourages a broader approach to reporting on human–wildlife interactions by drawing greater attention to coexistence, adaptation, and the everyday practices through which communities navigate shared environments. Across many forested and biodiversity-rich regions, people live alongside wildlife with a deep understanding of local landscapes, seasonal shifts, and ecological patterns. It aims to support narratives that more meaningfully reflect these lived realities.
Vishaka George, Communication Consultant, Dasra said,
“There are many stories to be told about our forests, their biodiversity, and the communities that live alongside them. Told more often and with care, they can deepen public connection to nature and shift conversations towards protecting both communities and wildlife. We hope this resource encourages more thoughtful, sensitive storytelling, mindful of language, data, and whose voices are centred.”
The handbook also supports more informed and well-rounded storytelling by offering practical resources, including:
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Sample questionnaire for more sensitive reporting – frameworks for engaging with affected communities and experts in an informed and sensitive manner, highlighting key pitfalls such as sensationalism of language.
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Directory of experts – a curated directory of researchers, journalists, and practitioners to ensure nuanced on-ground reporting.
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Repository of data sources – a collection of key data references to ground reporting in evidence and support well-rounded, contextualised storytelling.
Drawing from consultations with researchers and practitioners, the guide highlights a few key principles for stronger narrative: moving beyond the immediate event to ask what larger ecological or systemic factors are at play, using clear and neutral language, and ensuring balanced sourcing by including voices such as forest-dwelling communities, Adivasi elders, women, and local conservation practitioners alongside officials. It also underlines that stories can benefit from showing the full spectrum of human–wildlife relationships, including adaptation, local response, and practical solutions on the ground.
24, Mar 2026
DALKHAI Initiative: Strengthening Local Livelihoods to Curb Migration
The state government of Odisha has stepped up efforts to address the issue of labour migration by promoting the DALKHAI initiative, a programme aimed at creating more employment opportunities within local communities and improving rural livelihoods.
The initiative focuses on ensuring that people, especially in rural and tribal regions, can find work closer to home instead of being forced to migrate to other states in search of daily wages. Officials said the programme is being implemented through coordinated efforts of multiple departments to support income generation and skill-based employment.
The main objective is to build stronger village-level economies by promoting self-reliance and creating sustainable livelihood options. The government believes that when employment is available locally, families can remain together and maintain better social and economic stability.
Under the initiative, emphasis is being placed on encouraging small-scale enterprises, supporting agricultural and allied activities, and expanding rural infrastructure-related work. Skill development and capacity-building programmes are also being integrated to help youth and workers access better job opportunities within their own regions.
Officials highlighted that migration is often driven by lack of stable income opportunities in local areas. By addressing this gap, the DALKHAI initiative aims to reduce economic pressure on families and improve overall living conditions in rural communities.
The government has described the programme as part of its broader commitment to inclusive development, where growth is not limited to urban centres but extends equally to villages and remote areas.
Experts note that such initiatives can help strengthen rural economies, increase local spending power, and reduce dependency on external labour markets. Over time, this is expected to contribute to more balanced regional development and improved quality of life.
In essence, the DALKHAI initiative is being positioned as a step towards ensuring that people can earn a dignified livelihood in their own villages, reducing the need for migration and supporting long-term rural development.
24, Mar 2026
India’s Heritage Sites Attract Film Shoots and Foreign Tourists, Boosting Eco-Tourism Growth
India’s iconic heritage monuments are emerging as popular destinations for film shootings and international tourism, reflecting a growing blend of culture, cinema, and sustainable travel promotion across the country.
Among the most prominent examples is the UNESCO World Heritage Site Qutub Minar, which has recently witnessed a rise in film shoots, documentary productions, and visual storytelling projects. The monument’s architectural grandeur and historical significance continue to attract filmmakers seeking authentic backdrops for cinema and digital content.
Pic Credit: Pexel
Tourism officials report that increased media exposure and cinematic visibility of heritage sites have contributed to a steady rise in foreign tourist arrivals. International visitors are showing greater interest in India’s cultural landmarks, history, and architectural heritage, with sites like Qutub Minar becoming key attractions in travel itineraries.
Experts say this growing trend is not only boosting tourism but also strengthening India’s cultural and eco-tourism ecosystem. By promoting responsible tourism practices, authorities aim to ensure that heritage conservation goes hand in hand with visitor engagement and economic development.
The government and tourism bodies have been encouraging controlled film shootings at protected monuments under strict guidelines to ensure that heritage structures are not damaged. These initiatives are designed to balance creative use of historical sites with long-term preservation.
Tourism stakeholders believe that film shoots play a major role in global destination branding. When Indian monuments appear in films, documentaries, or digital media, they generate international curiosity and encourage more foreign travelers to explore these destinations in person.
Alongside cultural tourism, eco-tourism efforts are also being strengthened. Sustainable travel practices such as regulated visitor flow, improved cleanliness standards, and awareness campaigns are being implemented at major heritage sites to reduce environmental impact.
Officials note that this integrated approach—combining heritage conservation, film tourism, and eco-friendly travel—supports local employment, boosts small businesses, and enhances India’s global tourism profile.
With rising international interest and increasing creative use of historical sites, India’s heritage monuments are evolving into dynamic cultural spaces that connect history, cinema, and sustainable tourism.
24, Mar 2026
India’s Growth Accelerates Across Infrastructure, Economy and Global Standing: PM Narendra Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said India is witnessing rapid and broad-based growth, driven by major improvements in infrastructure, economic performance, and global influence.
Speaking at an event, he pointed to the sharp expansion of infrastructure as a key sign of progress. India now has over 160 airports, alongside growing road networks, railway modernization, and digital connectivity—developments that are improving mobility and boosting economic activity across regions.
The Prime Minister emphasized that India’s growth is no longer limited to policy announcements but is visible on the ground. He said faster execution of projects and time-bound delivery have helped shift the country from gradual progress to accelerated development.
On the economic front, he noted that India has remained resilient despite global challenges, including geopolitical tensions in regions such as West Asia. Stable growth, rising investments, and continued focus on manufacturing and exports have supported this momentum.
He also highlighted India’s increasing global standing, stating that the country is being seen as a reliable economic partner. According to him, consistent policy decisions and reforms have strengthened confidence among international investors and institutions.
Referring to governance, the Prime Minister said several key decisions taken in recent weeks reflect the government’s intent to maintain growth despite external pressures. He added that India’s ability to move forward even during global uncertainty demonstrates its economic strength.
Earlier in the day, while addressing the Lok Sabha, he also assured that India is prepared to handle global disruptions, including energy challenges, through strategic planning.
Overall, the Prime Minister presented India’s growth as a combination of faster infrastructure development, economic resilience, and rising global credibility, signaling a shift toward sustained, high-speed progress.
24, Mar 2026
Odisha’s Debt Climbs to INR 1.26 Lakh Crore; Fresh Borrowing to Push Burden Higher
Odisha’s debt burden is steadily increasing, with the state’s total outstanding liabilities reaching ₹1,25,951 crore by the end of February 2026. The rising debt translates to an average burden of about ₹26,783 per person.
The situation is expected to intensify in the coming financial year, as the state government plans to raise an additional ₹47,800 crore in 2026–27. This could take the total debt stock to nearly ₹1,73,751 crore.
At the same time, the government has outlined repayment commitments. Around ₹22,000 crore will go toward clearing existing loans, while ₹8,200 crore is expected to be spent on interest payments. After accounting for repayments, the net debt is projected to stand at approximately ₹1,51,751 crore.
The data, presented in the State Assembly by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, highlights the growing reliance on borrowings to support the state’s financial requirements.
In recent years, Odisha has sourced funds from a mix of channels, including central government loans, open market borrowings, and institutions such as NABARD. A similar strategy is planned for 2026–27, with a major share expected from market borrowings, supplemented by institutional and government funding.
The continued rise in debt indicates mounting fiscal pressure, which may further increase the per capita burden in the future, even as the state attempts to balance borrowing with repayments.
24, Mar 2026
Amid Rising Heat, Odisha Halts Outdoor Work During Peak Hours
Bhubaneswar: With temperatures expected to rise sharply in April, increasing the risk of heatstroke, the state Labor and Employees’ State Insurance Department has issued new safety guidelines to protect workers from extreme heat conditions.
According to the directive, outdoor labor activities should be suspended daily between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM from April 1 to June 15. Instructions have been sent to all Revenue Commissioners, District Collectors, and the State Labor Commissioner to ensure strict implementation.
The advisory applies to all government departments, central government offices operating within the state, private employers, industrial units, commercial establishments, shops, and contractors. Employers have been urged to reschedule working hours to avoid exposing workers to peak daytime heat.
In cases where work is unavoidable—particularly for essential services—employers must take adequate precautionary measures to safeguard workers. These include:
- Providing sufficient drinking water
- Arranging shaded rest areas
- Ensuring access to medical facilities
- Supplying ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) packets to workers
Additionally, healthcare institutions such as district hospitals, sub-divisional hospitals, primary health centers, and community health centers have been directed to remain prepared to handle heat-related illnesses.
The move aims to minimize the risk of heatstroke and ensure worker safety during the intense summer months.
24, Mar 2026
Rosatomflot provided assistance in the evacuation of the sailor
Moscow, 23rd March 2026, A search and rescue air ambulance helicopter evacuated a seriously ill sailor from the Arktika-2 motor vessel aboard the universal nuclear icebreaker Ural in the Kara Sea. On March 16, near Mys Zhelaniya, the vessel received a signal that there was a seriously ill sailor on board. Together with the Dikson Marine Rescue Coordination Center, a decision was made to transport the patient aboard the nuclear-powered vessel to the nearest helicopter landing point. The sailor is currently receiving qualified medical care in the hospital
“ The patient was placed in the medical unit on board the universal nuclear icebreaker Ural. The ship’s doctor and paramedic provided the necessary assistance to the sailor before evacuation. Captain Viktor Suryadov’s crew quickly transported the patient to the helicopter’s landing point. The nuclear-powered icebreaker covered the 215-mile journey in 15 hours at an average speed of 13.9 knots. Because all universal nuclear icebreakers of Project 22220 are equipped with a certified landing pad, the helicopter was able to quickly evacuate the patient,” said, Yakov Antonov, General Director of FSUE AtomFlot.
24, Mar 2026
CMS COP15 World’s Nations Gather in Brazil to Agree on Actions Amid New Findings that More Migratory Species of Animals Are Facing Extinction
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Campo Grande, Brazil, March 24 — The 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP15) to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) opens here on Monday March 23 as a new reports reveals that almost half (49%) of all CMS-listed species have decreasing population trends, and nearly one in four are global threatened with extinction. Launched days before the summit, the State of the World’s Migratory Species: Interim Report (2026) paints a stark picture of animals under pressure from a combination of overexploitation and habitat destruction, as well as pollution, climate change and invasive species. Over participants are expected, including delegates from among the 133 countries that are Parties to the treaty, scientists, indigenous peoples and local communities, and conservation organizations. The meeting is taking place at the gateway to the Pantanal – the Earth’s largest tropical wetland, increasingly under threat from drought, wildfire and land-use change. “It is a great honor for Brazil to host COP15. Holding this event in Campo Grande, in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, is a strategic choice. We are at the gateway to the Pantanal—the world’s largest tropical wetland. This region uniquely symbolizes the natural wealth of South America and the interdependence among countries whose fauna and flora cross borders. The Convention on Migratory Species reminds us of a simple yet powerful message: migration is natural,” said President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil. The stakes could not be higher The UN wildlife conservation meeting carries particular resonance in Brazil, home to more biodiversity than any nation on Earth. On Sunday, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil convened a High-Level Segment with President Santiago Peña Palacios of Paraguay, minister of foreign affairs of Bolivia, leadership of the United Nations Environment Programme, and the heads of the world’s major biodiversity environmental agreements — the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), CITES, and the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands among them — signaling that migratory species have moved firmly onto the political agenda as part of global efforts to tackle biodiversity loss. “Paraguay is convinced that protecting migratory species is not only an environmental task but also a development one. Ensuring the stability of natural systems guarantees the stability of our people, acknowledging the human right to a healthy and productive life in harmony with nature,” said President Santiago Peña of Paraguay. “The conservation of migratory species challenges humanity’s ability to cooperate in the face of a simple fact: life on Earth is interdependent. At this moment in history, this is not merely a scientific observation — it is an ethical and political imperative that demands responses commensurate with the multiple crises we face: climate, ecological, and global governance,” said Marina Silva, Brazil’s Minister of the Environment and Climate Change. “The theme of COP15, ‘Connecting Nature to Sustain Life,’ has never been more important. Migratory animals — from elephants, big cats, raptors, freshwater fish, sea turtles, whales, waterbirds, and even butterflies — are not just wildlife spectacles. They are the planet’s circulatory system, driving pollination, seed dispersal, carbon storage, pest control and nutrient cycling across entire continents. When their corridors break down, ecosystems follow,” said Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme. What’s on the table Across more than 100 agenda items, negotiators will grapple with threats that mirror the full breadth of the impacts of human activities on nature: illegal and unsustainable hunting or capturing of species, bycatch, habitat destruction and fragmentation, deep-sea mining, light, noise and chemical pollution, impacts from infrastructure, and the accelerating disruption of climate change. Negotiators will consider proposals to include 42 additional species under the treaty, including iconic animals such as the snowy owl, the great hammerhead shark and the striped hyena. “COP15 in Brazil – the world’s most biodiverse country – represents a significant milestone for advancing international collaboration on the conservation of migratory species and more broadly on reversing biodiversity loss. The 2024 State of the World’s Migratory Species report and the 2026 Interim Report provide invaluable information on the conservation status of migratory species, the major threats, and the actions needed to address such threats. The main drivers of declines remain unchanged – habitat loss, overexploitation, climate change, and pollution. We know what needs to be done, and Parties here in Campo Grande have the opportunity to adopt measures to ensure the long-term survival of migratory wildlife and healthy ecosystems for future generations,” said Amy Fraenkel, CMS Executive Secretary. What happens next Plenary and working group negotiations run through the week. Listing proposals, concerted actions, resolutions and decisions, which will shape conservation policy and species protections for years to come, will be considered for adoption on Sunday, 29 March 2026. Throughout the week, special events will include the unveiling of a major scientific study on migratory freshwater fish (Global Assessment of Migratory Freshwater Fishes), and the introduction of the Americas Flyways Atlas, a groundbreaking new online platform developed by CMS and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology highlighting vital corridors and stopover sites for migratory birds. A new CMS effort to address the serious threat of illegal and unsustainable taking – the Global Initiative on Taking of Migratory Species (GTI) will also be launched at COP15 to help governments, experts and local communities to ensure that any taking of migratory species is legal, sustainable and safe – and achieve their commitment under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. The Initiative focuses on domestic use, which may pose a significantly greater risk than international trade. On the evening of 23 March, the Migratory Species Champion Night will recognize CMS Parties for outstanding contributions to protecting wildlife on the move. At a glance: CMS and COP15 The Conference of the Parties (COP) is the governing body of CMS, which meets every 3 years to review progress, add new species under the Treaty, and strengthen actions to address conservation needs as well as continuing or emerging threats. Strong science underpins the COP’s agenda, ensuring that policy discussions reflect the best available evidence on threats, population trends and effective response measures.
COP15 opening press conference Monday, March 23, 2026, at the COP15 venue in Campo Grande. Scheduled for 1:45 pm AMT / 5:45 pm GMT, The event will be livestreamed via the CMS Youtube Channel COP15 Playlist and will feature the presentation of the State of the World’s Migratory Species: Interim Report 2026. Key speakers include
The press conference will provide an overview of the week’s agenda, major scientific findings, and anticipated negotiations and outcomes. |
23, Mar 2026
WCS Backs Urgent Protections for Giant Otter at Wildlife Summit in Brazil
