December 3, 2024 Introduction: The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is currently hearing a very important case regarding nations’ obligations to combat climate change. This case could set a precedent for future lawsuits worldwide. Vanuatu, a small island nation, spearheads the initiative for an advisory opinion on this critical issue. The hearings began on Monday and will […]

December 3, 2024 Introduction: The African openbill stork has been spotted in Kerala, its first sighting in the state. The observation was made by Subin K.S., a birdwatcher from Thrissur. He saw the bird during a survey in the Kanjani Kole fields. Previously, this species was only recorded in Goa but not officially recognized in […]

November 29, 2024 Introduction: India’s Ministry of External Affairs has signed an agreement with the International Solar Alliance. This agreement, made on November 26, 2024, focuses on solar energy projects in Fiji, Comoros, Madagascar, and Seychelles, which aims to enhance energy access in these regions. Context of the Agreement The agreement follows the Quad Leaders’ Summit […]

November 29, 2024 Introduction: Indian Railways is advancing rapidly in electrifying its Broad Gauge railway lines. In 2024, approximately 97% of the network is electrified, which was shared by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in a Lok Sabha response. Electrification Milestones Since the fiscal year 2014-15, around 45,200 kilometres of Broad Gauge tracks have been electrified. The pace […]

November 28, 2024 Introduction: The recent Kochi edition of the Kerala Bird Race showcased 192 bird species and among them was the Dunlin, a small shorebird now classified as “Near Threatened”. This change reflects an increase in risk from “Least Concern” in 2023, which is often found in large flocks on mudflats and beaches. Birdwatchers […]

November 28, 2024 Introduction: The Global Matchmaking Platform (GMP) was launched during Energy Day at COP29, which is a collaboration between the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Climate Club. It aims to address emissions from high-polluting industries. An important funding gap of $125 billion annually was brought into light as necessary for achieving net-zero […]

November 28, 2024 Introduction: The Union Home Minister Amit Shah has recently led a high-level committee that approved important funding for disaster mitigation. This initiative aims to enhance capacity-building projects across 15 states in India. A total of ₹1,000 crore has been allocated for these efforts. Additionally, ₹115.67 crore will support the training of civil […]

November 27, 2024 Introduction: India has recently inaugurated its first green hydrogen fuelling station in Leh, Ladakh, which is milestone in the green mobility sector. The project was completed by Amara Raja Infra for NTPC Ltd, which aims to promote emission-free transport in the region. Project Overview The green hydrogen fuelling station is part of […]

November 27, 2024 Introduction: Researchers identified Palpares contrarius on the Madras Christian College (MCC) campus, a new species of antlion in Tamil Nadu, which marks addition to the region’s biodiversity. Identification Features Palpares contrarius resembles a dragonfly, which has distinct antennae and a unique fluttering flight. Antennal structure helps differentiate it from similar insects. Adults […]

November 27, 2024 Introduction: A rare imperial eagle, known scientifically as Aquila heliaca, was identified by wildlife photographer Jijoy Immatty, in the Pulluzhi Kole wetlands. This sighting is important as the last recorded observation in Kannur dates back to 2003. Habitat and Distribution The imperial eagle primarily breeds in southeastern Europe, which also inhabits western […]