Category: Human Interest

Human Interest

IndiGo Pilot’s Heartfelt In-Flight Announcement Amid Travel Chaos

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In the midst of ongoing flight disruptions, an IndiGo pilot’s compassionate in-flight message has captured widespread attention online. The video, shared by Pradeep Krishnan, shows the pilot addressing passengers directly, expressing empathy for the inconvenience caused by flight delays.

The pilot said, “I am sorry! I completely get how tough it is when a flight causes you to miss something important. I promise you, we’re not on strike. As pilots, we’re trying our best, and we want to go home too.”

He acknowledged the stress passengers were experiencing and highlighted the challenges faced by airline staff. “A lot has been happening in the last few days, and my heart goes out to everyone who’s stuck or stranded. Our flight into Coimbatore was delayed too, and I’ve seen all the videos of people getting upset and angry. But I just want to appreciate my passengers flying into Coimbatore. They were so patient and supportive,” the pilot added.

In his Instagram post, the pilot also urged travelers to show patience and understanding towards ground staff, who are working tirelessly to manage the situation. “Please be kind to our ground staff. They are trying their best to get you home,” he wrote, ending with a message of hope that the airline team will bounce back soon.

This moment of honesty and empathy has resonated with travelers and social media users alike, highlighting the human side of aviation and the challenges faced by airline crews during operational disruptions.

Human Interest

Right to Disconnect Bill Introduced in Lok Sabha Signals Major Relief for Employees

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Delhi, December 8, 2025: In a major move towards strengthening employee welfare in India’s increasingly connected digital environment, the Right to Disconnect Bill, 2025, was introduced in the Lok Sabha during the fifth day of Parliament’s winter session. The session commenced on December 1.

The private member’s bill was introduced by Supriya Sule, Lok Sabha MP from the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar). Highlighting the urgent need to curb digital burnout, Sule stated that the Bill aims to “foster a better quality of life and a healthier work–life balance” by protecting employees from the pressure of after-hours work communication. She also posted a video of her speech on X, emphasising the growing stress caused by always-on work culture.

Key Provisions of the Right to Disconnect Bill

If enacted, the Bill will:

  • Prohibit employers from mandating employees to answer calls, emails, or messages after working hours.
  • Allow workers complete freedom to disconnect during weekends, public holidays, and approved leave.
  • Require organisations to clearly define official working hours and set expectations regarding communication.
  • Impose financial penalties on employers who violate these rights.
  • Establish an employee welfare authority to resolve work–life balance–related grievances.

Advocates believe this reform could bring India closer to global labour standards, where countries like France and Portugal have similar protections for employees’ personal time.

Additional Employee-Focused Bills Introduced

Supriya Sule presented two more private member’s bills focused on worker welfare:

  • The Paternity and Paternal Benefits Bill, 2025, which seeks to provide paid paternal leave to enable fathers to participate actively in early child development.
  • The Code on Social Security (Amendment) Bill, 2025, proposing formal recognition of gig workers as a separate category eligible for minimum wages, regulated hours, social security, and improved working conditions.

On the same day, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor introduced a bill seeking to amend the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020, to cap working hours. Citing alarming data — including that 51% of India’s workforce works more than 49 hours a week and 78% experiences burnout — Tharoor noted the urgent need to safeguard workers’ physical and mental wellbeing.

With these multiple proposals, Parliament has seen a renewed focus on employee rights, mental health, and labour reforms.

Human Interest

IMD Issues Cold Wave Warning Across Several Regions From 9–12 December

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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a significant Cold Wave Warning, forecasting a sharp drop in temperatures across multiple regions of India between 9–12 December 2025.

According to the advisory, Central India, East India, and Northern Peninsular India will experience cold wave conditions from 9–12 December, while Northwest and West India are expected to be impacted from 10–12 December.

This seasonal cold surge is likely due to persistent dry winds, clear skies, and a northwesterly flow bringing chilly air deep into the subcontinent.

Regions Likely to Be Affected

  • Central India
  • East India
  • Northern Peninsular India
  • Northwest India
  • West India

Precautions for Citizens

Authorities have advised:

  • Wearing adequate warm clothing
  • Avoiding early morning and late-night exposure
  • Checking weather updates regularly
  • Taking special care of children, the elderly, and those with health vulnerabilities

Official agencies continue to monitor the situation closely. Citizens are encouraged to stay updated through verified bulletins issued by the IMD and national disaster management authorities.

Stay safe, stay warm, and stay informed.

Human Interest

Anjuna Police Officers Recover Lost Samsung S24 Ultra of South African Tourist at Vagator Beach

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In yet another commendable display of dedication and professionalism, PC Abhishek Kasar and PC Shamba of the Anjuna Police Station successfully recovered a missing mobile phone belonging to a foreign national from South Africa.

The tourist had reported his Samsung S24 Ultra missing while visiting Vagator Beach. Responding promptly, the two officers initiated focused efforts to trace the device. Their swift coordination, persistent follow-up, and effective teamwork led to the successful recovery of the phone.

The missing device was later handed over to the rightful owner at the Anjuna Police Station. Grateful for the timely assistance, the tourist expressed deep appreciation for the sincerity, commitment, and supportive approach of the officers, praising Goa Police for their efficient handling of the situation.

This incident once again highlights the ongoing efforts of the Anjuna Police Station in ensuring the safety and security of visitors and locals. Their proactive approach reinforces the trust that tourists continue to place in Goa as a safe and welcoming destination.

Human Interest

Drishti Marine’s ‘Sagar Safar’ Relaunched to Boost Ocean Confidence and Strengthen Public Safety

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Panaji, 2025 : Drishti Marine, Goa’s state-appointed lifesaving and rescue agency, has relaunched its community-oriented guided sea-swimming initiative, Sagar Safar, with the aim of familiarising beachgoers with the ocean, helping them overcome fear of open water, and significantly reducing drowning incidents along the state’s coastline.

The programme—conducted daily at 11 am and 4 pm—is currently offered at six major beaches: Baga, Calangute, Sinquerim and Candolim in North Goa, and Benaulim and Colva in South Goa.

Each session, lasting approximately one hour, is supervised by trained lifesavers who guide participants through controlled sea-swimming experiences using buoyancy aids and life jackets. The sessions also include a safety briefing, live demonstrations on recognising rip currents, and an explanation of beach flag systems, ensuring every participant gains practical understanding of essential sea-safety protocols.

Accessible Guidance Through Multiple Touchpoints

Participants can register directly with lifesavers stationed at each beach.
To increase awareness, Drishti Marine has integrated technology-driven communication:

  • Real-time announcements via the Aurus AI mobile bot
  • QR codes at lifeguard towers and rescue vehicles linking to the Sagar Safar website
    These tools help ensure that visitors receive timely updates on session timings and safety advice.

Expanded After Success of ‘Swim With Lifesavers’

Originally launched in 2021 as Swim With Lifesavers, the initiative returns in a more comprehensive format following strong public demand. Past participants—especially first-time swimmers and travellers from inland regions—reported feeling safer, more confident and more informed about sea behaviour after attending the programme.

A Mission to Build Respect, Awareness and Safety

Navin Awasthi, CEO of Drishti Marine, emphasised that Sagar Safar is more than just a guided swimming experience—it’s a life-saving educational effort.

“The idea is to help people appreciate the ocean while respecting its power. Our lifesavers guide participants through safe techniques, explain flag colours and demonstrate how to identify rip currents. The goal is simple — awareness and confidence,” said Awasthi.

The programme also fosters deeper respect for the lifesavers who protect Goa’s coastline daily and enhances ocean literacy among both residents and tourists.

Year-Round Programme (Except Monsoon)

Sagar Safar sessions will continue all year round, pausing only during the monsoon months when swimming is restricted due to rough seas.

With the relaunch, Drishti Marine aims to encourage safer beach culture and empower swimmers with the skills and confidence needed to enjoy Goa’s waters responsibly.