March 23, 2026 - IndiaVerve

Odisha bars outdoor work during peak heat hours to prevent heatstroke

March 23, 2026 by India Verve Desk

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has directed that workers should not be engaged in outdoor work between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM from April 1 to June 15 to prevent heatstroke amid rising temperatures.

The Labour and Employees’ State Insurance Department issued the directive to all Revenue Divisional Commissioners, District Collectors, and the State Labour Commissioner, citing the likelihood of extreme heat conditions during the summer.

All state government departments, central government offices in Odisha, private employers, industrial and commercial establishments, shop owners, and contractors have been asked to comply with the order and take necessary steps to protect workers. Authorities have also been advised to revise working hours wherever required.

The government said that in cases involving essential services where work cannot be halted during peak hours, employers must ensure adequate safety measures. These include the provision of safe drinking water, shaded rest areas, medical support, and mandatory distribution of ORS packets to workers.

Health officials, including Chief District Medical Officers, Sub-Divisional Medical Officers, and staff at Primary Health Centres, Community Health Centres, and hospitals under the Employees’ State Insurance scheme, have been asked to remain alert to handle heat-related illnesses and provide timely treatment.

The move comes as temperatures are expected to rise sharply in the coming weeks, increasing the risk of heat-related conditions across the state.

Russia says strengthening ties with India top foreign policy priority

March 23, 2026 by India Verve Desk

New Delhi: Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Monday said strengthening the special and privileged strategic partnership with New Delhi remains one of Russia’s top foreign policy priorities, adding that India fully shares this approach.

He was addressing the international conference “India and Russia: Towards a New Bilateral Agenda” organized by the Russian International Affairs Council and the Embassy of India in Moscow.

In his video address, Lavrov said New Delhi deserves deep respect for pursuing an independent foreign policy under its commitment to strategic autonomy and consistently placing national interests first.

He noted that India’s influence is steadily growing in the emerging multipolar world as a major political and economic centre, a distinct civilisation, and a great power of the 21st century, according to a statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry.

Lavrov said the long-standing Russia-India friendship remains a model of interstate relations based on equality, mutual trust, respect, and consideration of each other’s interests. He highlighted the importance of sustained high-level dialogue in strengthening bilateral ties.

Referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to New Delhi in December 2025, he said both sides reaffirmed alignment in strategic goals and adopted a comprehensive set of documents, including policy frameworks. He added that Russia is expecting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Moscow in 2026.

He said both countries are continuing efforts to strengthen the economic foundation of ties, noting that bilateral trade reached about USD 60 billion in 2025. He said leaders have set a target of USD 100 billion by 2030 and are working to deepen cooperation in logistics, technology, and investment.

Lavrov said both sides will continue collaboration on the International North-South Transport Corridor and the Northern Sea Route, while improving direct settlement mechanisms. He noted that around 96 per cent of bilateral trade is already conducted in national currencies.

He also highlighted close foreign policy coordination between the two countries amid current geopolitical challenges, adding that both sides support the democratisation of international relations based on international law and the principles of the UN Charter.

Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar also addressed the event virtually, saying, “India and Russia share a Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership rooted in trust and mutual respect.”

He said that decades of mutually beneficial cooperation between India and Russia have contributed to regional and global peace, stability, and progress.

The minister further said that in the current evolving geopolitical environment, bilateral engagement continues to deepen, driven by frequent high-level exchanges, according to a statement from the External Affairs Ministry.

Referring to Putin’s visit to India in December 2025, he said the visit marked new progress across a wide range of areas, including mobility of skilled professionals, health and food safety, maritime cooperation, fertilisers, customs and commerce, as well as academic and media collaboration.

He added that efforts will continue to conclude the India–EAEU Free Trade Agreement, address non-tariff barriers and regulatory challenges, and make effective use of the skilled Indian workforce.

Modi warns of prolonged impact as West Asia crisis deepens

March 23, 2026 by India Verve Desk

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday warned that the ongoing West Asia conflict could have long-term economic and strategic consequences for India, even as he assured that the country remains prepared to manage disruptions in energy and supply chains.

Addressing the Lok Sabha, Modi said the crisis has created “unexpected challenges — economic, national security-related, and humanitarian,” stressing that its impact is being felt globally.

“The situation in West Asia is deeply concerning… its adverse impact on the global economy and on people’s lives is evident,” he said, calling for a united national response to the evolving crisis.

With tensions escalating around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global energy supplies, the Prime Minister underlined India’s vulnerability, noting that a significant portion of the country’s crude oil, gas, and fertiliser imports pass through the region. He added that disruptions in shipping have made the situation “highly challenging” though the government has worked to ensure that supplies of petrol, diesel and gas remain stable.

Modi emphasised that India’s energy security measures taken over the past decade are helping cushion the impact. “Today, we have a strategic petroleum reserve of over 53 lakh metric tonnes, and work is underway to increase this to more than 65 lakh metric tonnes,” he said, highlighting efforts to prepare for crises.

He also pointed to diversification of energy imports, noting, “Earlier, we imported from 27 countries; today, we import energy from 41 countries,” reducing dependence on any single region.

The Prime Minister said the government is in constant contact with global suppliers and monitoring maritime routes to ensure safe delivery of essential goods. He added that several Indian vessels stranded in the Strait of Hormuz have recently reached the country safely.

Beyond energy, Modi highlighted broader concerns, including the safety of Indian citizens in the region. Nearly 10 million Indians live and work in Gulf countries, he noted, while over 3.75 lakh citizens have already been brought back safely since the conflict began.

He said India has set up 24/7 control rooms, emergency helplines, and advisory systems to assist citizens, adding that “the safety of Indians at home and abroad has been our highest priority.”

On the domestic front, the Prime Minister assured that essential sectors remain stable. Food grain stocks are sufficient, fertiliser availability is being secured for the upcoming Kharif season, and coal reserves at power plants are adequate to meet rising electricity demand during summer.

Modi also highlighted structural reforms aimed at reducing import dependence, including increased ethanol blending, expansion of renewable energy, and electrification of transport systems. “These efforts are proving very useful today,” he said.

At the same time, he cautioned that the crisis could persist. “This war has created difficult global conditions that may last for a long time. We must remain prepared and united,” he said, urging both governments and citizens to act with patience and vigilance.

Calling for diplomatic resolution, Modi reiterated India’s consistent position. “Dialogue and diplomacy are the only solutions… our effort is to encourage all parties towards a peaceful resolution at the earliest,” he said.

He also warned against black marketing and hoarding of essential commodities, urging state governments to maintain strict monitoring amid uncertainty.

Iran threatens power grid strikes as US delays attack

March 23, 2026 by India Verve Desk

Escalation continues with fresh strikes, Hormuz tensions and fragile talks shaping conflict trajectory

Iran on Monday threatened to target power plants across West Asia that supply electricity to US military bases, even as US President Donald Trump announced a temporary pause in planned strikes, signalling a fragile diplomatic window in the ongoing conflict.

According to Iranian state media Press TV, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warned that any attack on Iran’s energy infrastructure would trigger retaliation targeting regional power facilities and economic assets linked to the United States.

“What we have done is to announce our decision that if the power plants are attacked, Iran will retaliate by targeting the power plants of the occupying regime and the power plants of regional countries that supply electricity to US bases,” the statement said, adding, “Do not doubt that we will do this.”

The IRGC also accused the United States of initiating the conflict, claiming, “It is the aggressive and inhumane American army that started this war… and has so far targeted five water infrastructure sites.”

The escalation comes amid tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route. Iran’s Defense Council said the passage of non-hostile vessels would now require coordination with Iranian authorities, warning of a “decisive and destructive response” to any further attacks on its energy infrastructure.

It further cautioned that any aggression near Iranian coasts could lead to the laying of naval mines, potentially freezing maritime activity across the Persian Gulf.

Meanwhile, Trump said he had ordered a five-day pause on US strikes targeting Iranian energy infrastructure following what he described as “very good and productive conversations” with Tehran.

“I have instructed the department of war to postpone any and all military strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for a five day period,” Trump said in a post on Truth Social, adding that the move was “subject to the success of the ongoing meetings and discussions.”

The announcement came just days after Trump had warned that the US would “obliterate” Iran’s power plants if the Strait of Hormuz was not reopened within 48 hours.

ALSO READ: Trump warns strikes on Iran power plants as war intensifies | Modi reviews West Asia conflict, directs steps to shield economy, citizens

Despite the pause, hostilities continued on the ground. The Israeli military said it had “begun a wide-scale wave of strikes” targeting infrastructure in Tehran, while the US military confirmed strikes on a turbine engine production site in Qom province linked to Iran’s drone and aircraft programmes.

According to CENTCOM chief Admiral Brad Cooper, Iran has been launching missiles and drones from populated areas, though no evidence was provided for the claim.

Reports from Tehran indicated intense bombardment, with Al Jazeera Arabic describing the explosions as “unprecedented”, particularly in the eastern parts of the city where air defence systems were activated.

Civilian casualties have also been reported. Iran’s Fars news agency said a strike on a residential building in Khorramabad killed one child and injured several others, while at least six people were killed in attacks on homes in Tabriz.

Iran has also claimed to have struck Israel’s Dimona nuclear complex in retaliation for earlier attacks on its Natanz facility, as well as targeting US-linked assets following strikes on its energy infrastructure.

As both sides intensify military operations while leaving the door open for negotiations, the conflict continues to pose significant risks to regional stability and global energy security.

State-wide fire safety mock drill to be conducted this week

March 23, 2026 by India Verve Desk

Bhubaneswar: Director General of Fire Services Dr. Sudhansu Sarangi on Monday said a state-wide fire safety mock drill will be conducted on Saturday and sought active cooperation from all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).

He made the statement while addressing a virtual sensitisation workshop on fire safety awareness and preparedness organised by the Housing and Urban Development (H&UD) Department in collaboration with Odisha Fire Services.

The workshop aimed at strengthening emergency response systems and improving technical preparedness across ULBs in the state.

Sarangi led the technical session and highlighted preventive measures, the use of modern firefighting equipment, and the need for institutional readiness. He said the H&UD Department is the first in the state to organise such a comprehensive initiative on fire safety, setting a benchmark for inter-departmental coordination.

Under the leadership of Additional Chief Secretary Usha Padhee, the department stressed the need to integrate fire safety into urban governance rather than treating it as a compliance requirement. She directed all ULBs to include fire safety measures under the Mukhya Mantri Sahari Bikas Yojana in the coming financial year.

The virtual meeting saw participation from commissioners of municipal corporations, executive officers of municipalities, and notified area councils, along with fire officers and deputy fire officers.

The discussions focused on strengthening safety standards in view of recent fire incidents, with emphasis on preparedness, prevention, and public awareness.

The department outlined key measures, including continuous sensitisation of officials and citizens, mandatory periodic safety inspections of public and private establishments, and awareness campaigns on fire prevention and emergency response at the grassroots level.

At the outset, Director of Municipal Administration Arindam Dakua outlined the objectives of the meeting and stressed the need for a coordinated, state-wide approach to fire safety preparedness across ULBs.

The workshop concluded with a directive to all ULB heads to immediately initiate safety audits and awareness drives in their respective jurisdictions to reduce risks and prevent future incidents.

Kala Bhoomi marks 8th Foundation Day with cultural showcase

March 23, 2026 by India Verve Desk

Bhubaneswar: The 8th Foundation Day of Odisha Crafts Museum ‘Kala Bhoomi’ was celebrated with vibrant cultural performances and a renewed push to take the state’s traditional art forms to the global stage.

The event, held at Gandamunda in Bhubaneswar, drew large crowds who explored Odisha’s rich artistic heritage through curated exhibits and live performances. Sitar and tabla recitals, along with Odissi and Sambalpuri folk dances, added to the festive atmosphere

Senior officials including Director of Handicrafts Nivedita Prusty, Director of Textiles and Handlooms Somesh Kumar Upadhyay, and SIDAC Member Secretary Chinmayi Biswal attended the programme. According to an official release, discussions during the event highlighted Kala Bhoomi’s journey from its inception to becoming a prominent cultural institution, while emphasising the need for collective efforts to position Odisha’s art and craft traditions on the global map.

Chief Executive Officer Saswati Sahu delivered the vote of thanks at the conclusion of the event.

Established in 2018, Kala Bhoomi has emerged as a key centre for preserving and promoting Odisha’s handicrafts and handlooms. The museum houses dedicated galleries showcasing terracotta works, traditional paintings, stone carvings, and metal crafts, offering visitors a comprehensive view of the state’s artistic legacy.

Over the years, the museum has attracted a diverse audience, including students, researchers, curators, and cultural enthusiasts from across India and abroad. It has evolved into a hub for cultural learning and exchange, driven by the contributions of local artisans and weavers.

The release also noted that artworks created during the recent Toshali Mela, where over 1,000 terracotta artisans participated in a record-setting initiative, are currently on display at the museum, drawing significant public interest.

Kala Bhoomi continues to play a crucial role in preserving Odisha’s traditional art forms, reinforcing the idea that cultural heritage is not just a reflection of the past but a vital part of the future.

Health minister orders strict fire safety checks in government hospitals

March 23, 2026 by India Verve Desk

Bhubaneswar: Health Minister Dr. Mukesh Mahaling on Sunday directed officials to strictly enforce fire safety norms in government hospitals and ensure regular inspections.

Mahaling issued the directive while chairing a high-level review meeting of the Health Department at Lok Seva Bhavan.

He stressed the need for periodic monitoring and strict adherence to fire safety standards across all government healthcare facilities. The minister asked officials to implement the decisions taken during the meeting with urgency and ensure timely action.

Fire safety preparedness in medical colleges, district headquarters hospitals, and other health centres was reviewed during the meeting.

Mahaling emphasised that emergency response systems must remain robust and said patient safety should be treated as the top priority.

He directed that fire-fighting equipment in all hospitals must remain fully functional and undergo regular checks, along with mock drills.

He also called for coordination with the Works Department and Fire Services Department to strengthen safety measures.

The minister said the safety of patients and the public remains the government’s top priority and warned that negligence in this regard will not be tolerated. He urged officials to remain vigilant in the coming days.

Senior officials, including the Health Secretary, Special Secretary, Chief District Medical Officers, and heads of medical colleges, attended the meeting, with several participants joining virtually.

Humpy withdraws from FIDE Women’s Candidates over safety concerns

March 23, 2026 by India Verve Desk

New Delhi: Indian chess Grandmaster Koneru Humpy on Sunday announced that she will not take part in the upcoming FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament.

She said the ongoing conflict in West Asia had forced her to make the decision.

The tournament is scheduled to take place in Cyprus from March 28 to April 16.

In a post on X, Humpy said: “After deep reflection, I have taken the difficult decision to withdraw from the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament. No event, no matter how important, can come before personal safety and well-being. Despite the assurances provided, I do not feel fully secure under the current circumstances. This is a painful but necessary decision, and I stand by it.”

In line with Article 2.2 of the Tournament Regulations, the Indian grandmaster’s spot has been offered to the next highest finisher in the Women’s Events Series 2024–25 who had not already qualified. Accordingly, Anna Muzychuk will take her place in the tournament, the International Chess Federation said.

PM reviews West Asia conflict, directs steps to shield economy, citizens

March 23, 2026March 23, 2026 by India Verve Desk

New Delhi: With the ongoing West Asia conflict raising concerns over global supply chains and inflation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level security meeting late last evening to review its impact on India, with a focus on ensuring uninterrupted supply of essential commodities.

The Prime Minister directed all departments to work in close coordination to minimise disruption for citizens and prevent any shortages. According to an official statement, he also emphasised strict monitoring to curb black marketing and hoarding of essential goods.

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) reviewed potential risks across key sectors, including food, fuel, fertilisers, power, and trade, amid growing global uncertainty triggered by the conflict. The availability of essential resources such as food grains, energy supplies, and fuel was assessed in detail, with the government indicating preparedness to maintain stable supply in the short and medium term.

Special attention was given to the agriculture sector, particularly fertiliser availability ahead of the upcoming Kharif season. The government noted that existing stock levels remain adequate, supported by measures taken in recent years, while also exploring alternative sourcing options to avoid disruptions.

The review also found that coal reserves at power plants are sufficient to meet current electricity demand, with no immediate concerns of shortages.

The Cabinet Secretary presented a comprehensive overview of the evolving global situation and outlined steps already undertaken by various ministries. The government is also examining diversification of import sources for critical sectors such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and petrochemicals, while identifying new export markets to cushion potential trade disruptions.

The broader economic outlook — including short-, medium-, and long-term implications of the conflict — was discussed, along with mitigation strategies to safeguard India’s economy.

To ensure a coordinated response, the Prime Minister directed the formation of a group of ministers and senior officials to adopt a whole-of-government approach. Sector-specific teams will also engage with stakeholders to monitor developments and implement timely measures.

Describing the situation as evolving, Modi noted that the impact of the West Asia conflict is being felt globally and stressed the need for continued vigilance and proactive planning.