February 25, 2026  Introduction: Food safety authorities in Thiruvananthapuram are investigating a suspected case of marine neurotoxin poisoning after multiple people fell critically ill following consumption of seafood at a restaurant in Vizhinjam. Three members of a six-member family developed severe symptoms on the night of February 16, and two died within hours. Subsequently, six […]

 February 25, 2026  Introduction: In a major entomological breakthrough, scientists from the ICAR-Directorate of Floricultural Research (ICAR-DFR), Pune, have identified a new species of blossom midge infesting jasmine flower buds in India. The species, named “Contarinia icardiflores” sp. nov., has been discovered attacking “Jasminum sambac”, a commercially important ornamental crop. The discovery highlights emerging pest […]

 February 24, 2026  Introduction: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Uttar Pradesh government to restore the Suav’s classification from a “nullah” (drain) to a “river” in official revenue records and gazette notifications. The order came in response to a petition challenging the downgrading of the Suav, a key tributary of the Rapti river in Balrampur district. The […]

February 23, 2026 Introduction: The Palamu Tiger Reserve (PTR) in Jharkhand has launched the ‘Vanjeevi Didi’ initiative, a community-driven conservation programme aimed at empowering women to protect forests and wildlife. Rolled out by the south division of PTR, the project seeks to build grassroots awareness and strengthen local participation in safeguarding biodiversity. Women as Forest Ambassadors Under the initiative, 18 […]