As the world observes the 33rd World Water Day on March 22, 2025, the United Nations has highlighted Glacier Preservation as this year’s theme, emphasizing the critical role glaciers play in sustaining freshwater resources. Held annually since 1993, World Water Day aims to bolster awareness around water conservation and support Sustainable Development Goal 6: clean water and sanitation for all by 2030.

This year’s theme arrives at a crucial moment, as global glacier loss reaches at an alarming levels. Data from the UN World Water Day Report, released on March 21, underscores the urgency: nearly 2 billion people rely on freshwater sourced from melting glaciers, yet glacier mass loss from 2022 to 2024 has been the highest ever recorded, according to the World Meteorological Organization.

Glaciers: vital yet vanishing freshwater reservoirs

Glaciers, formed from compacted snow that accumulates and transforms into ice over time, store about 70% of the Earth’s freshwater. However, of all water on Earth, only 2.5% is freshwater, and less than 0.3% of that is usable. Despite their crucial role, glaciers are retreating at an accelerated pace due to global warming, seasonal imbalances, and pollution-driven black carbon deposits that reduce their ability to reflect heat. However ,  the rising sea levels, threatened biodiversity, and disrupted freshwater supply are just a few of the consequences of glacier retreat. Initial surges in river flow due to melting can eventually reverse, resulting in water scarcity that affects billions.

Glacier loss in China highlights broader trend

China’s glacier landscape mirrors the global trend. As per the Third Chinese Glacier Inventory, released recently, China had about 69,000 glaciers covering 46,000 square kilometers as of 2020. But since the 1960s, the glacier area has declined by 26%, with an alarming 7,000 small glaciers disappearing entirely.

To address these challenges, China is hosting its 38th “China Water Week” from March 22 to 28, featuring various public awareness campaigns nationwide. These efforts align with the UN’s global call for sharp reductions in carbon emissions and reinforced climate action.

With nearly 2.7 billion people facing severe water scarcity globally, World Water Day 2025 underscores the urgent need for glacier protection as a cornerstone of freshwater conservation strategies.

As Kolkata Knight Riders prepare to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL 2025 opener at Eden Gardens, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a series of significant rule changes that will come into effect from this season.

Second ball rule to tackle dew

In a bid to address the impact of dew in night matches, the BCCI has introduced a new provision allowing the bowling side in the second innings to request a change of ball once after the 10th over. The decision, approved unanimously by all franchise captains in a recent meeting, aims to aid bowlers—particularly spinners—who often struggle to grip the wet ball.

According to the new rule, the bowling captain can request a ball change, even if dew is not visibly present. Umpires will be required to replace the ball with one that is similarly worn, although teams will not have the option to choose the replacement ball.

KKR spinner Varun Chakravarthy welcomed the move, saying it may help spinners regain control in crucial middle overs. RCB coach Andy Flower also backed the change, highlighting the strategic flexibility it provides to captains.

Saliva ban officially lifted

Another key update for IPL 2025 is the removal of the ban on using saliva to shine the ball. The ban, originally imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic and later made permanent by the ICC, has now been reversed by the IPL following discussions with all 10 teams. Bowlers can now return to traditional ball-shining methods starting this season. However, both Varun Chakravarthy and Andy Flower downplayed its significance in the T20 format during pre-match press interactions.

New Code of Conduct with demerit points

The BCCI has also rolled out a new Code of Conduct that introduces a demerit points system and suspension points valid for a span of 36 months. This replaces the earlier rule where captains could be banned for one match after three over-rate violations.

DRS expanded to include wide and no-ball reviews

The Decision Review System (DRS) has been upgraded as well. Teams will now be able to challenge height-based no-ball calls and off-stump wide deliveries. Advanced technology like Hawk-Eye and ball-tracking will be used to assist the third umpire in reviewing these decisions.

Golden Badge for champions

In a symbolic move, the BCCI has introduced a ‘Golden Badge’ for defending champions. This year, KKR will be the first team to don the golden emblem on their shirts throughout the season, recognising their 2024 title win.

As cricket fever returns with the 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League, fans can look forward to a grand start with a star-studded opening ceremony scheduled for Saturday, March 22, at the historic Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

Before the season opener between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the stadium will light up with performances from renowned singer Shreya Ghosal, Punjabi artist Karan Aujla, and Bollywood actress Disha Patani.

Grand performances ahead of KKR vs RCB clash

The IPL’s traditional curtain-raiser will kick off at 6 PM IST, with musical and dance performances meant to set the festive tone of the season. Shreya Ghosal’s soulful vocals, Karan Aujla’s energetic Punjabi beats, and Disha Patani’s glam act are expected to be the highlight of the evening.

Rain may dampen ceremony, match in doubt

However, the celebration faces an uncertain forecast. As per latest weather predictions, drizzles are likely between 5 PM and 11 PM IST, raising concerns over potential delays or even cancellation of the opening ceremony and the first match.

How to watch IPL 2025 opening ceremony live

Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata

Date: Saturday, March 22

Time: 6 PM IST

Live telecast: Star Sports Network

Live streaming: JioHotstar app and website

Fans are advised to keep an eye on weather updates and tune in early to not miss the live performances and the toss updates for the KKR vs RCB clash.