SATAT Initiative:GOI signs MoUs to set 900 Compressed Bio Gas Plants.
21 November 2020. Introduction: A MoU was signed on 20 November 2020 between MoPNG and leading oil & gas marketing companies & technology providers to establish Compressed Bio-Gas CBG) plants across India under the Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT) initiative, in the presence of Union Minister of petroleum and Natural Gas & Steel to boost…
Read MoreWorld’s last White Giraffe to be fitted with GPS tracking device.
19 November 2020. Introduction: The only known white giraffe in the world has been fitted with a GPS tracking device to help protect it from poachers in Kenya. The tracking device will provide hourly update about the whereabouts of the Giraffe. This will help to keep the animal safe from poachers. About the white giraffe: The…
Read MoreFirst Convergence Project of India to generate green energy.
17 November 2020. Introduction: Energy Efficiency Services Ltd, a joint venture of PSUs under the ministry of power has signed a memorandum of understanding with Government of Goa to set upIndia’s first convergence project to generate green energy for rural and agriculture consumption in the state. About the Project; The project is to focus on energy solutions that…
Read MoreNational Action Plan for Vulture Conservation,2020-2025.
18 November 2020. Introduction: The National Action Plan for Vulture Conservation, 2020-25 was recently approved by National Board for Wild life. The plan suggests that new veterinary Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAID) should be tested on vultures before they are commercially released. Highlights: The new plan automatically removes veterinary use of a drug if it is…
Read MoreTristan da Cunha becomes the largest Marine Protection Zone of Atlantic Ocean.
16 November 2020. Introduction: The isolated UK Overseas Territory of Tristan da Cunha, has been declared the largest fully protected marine reserves in the Atlantic Ocean at 687,000 square kilometres. It will be a marine protection zone to safeguard endangered rockhopper penguins, yellow-nosed albatross and other wildlife . This will close over 90 percent of…
Read MoreLonar Lake and Sur Sarovar Lake added to Ramsar Site.
16 November 2020. Introduction: The Lonar lake in Maharashtra and Sur Sarovar, also known as Keetham lake, in Agra, have been added to the list of recognised Ramsar sites.: announced by the Ministry Of Environment and Climate Change. About Ramsar Convention: The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance Especially as Waterfowl Habitat is a…
Read MoreManipur : Orders issued to protect Amur Falcons.
11 November 2020. Introduction: The Manipur government has stepped up vigil and launched an awareness campaign to protect Amur falcons, birds which migrate to the hilly districts of Manipur for two months. District Magistrates of Senapati and Churachandpur districts issued official orders banning hunting, rearing and sale of Amur falcons. Manipur Government Order The State…
Read MoreReport on ongoing decline of U.S. coral Reefs.
11 November 2020. Introduction: A first of its kind assessment of coral reefs in U.S. waters reports continued decline of this sensitive underwater ecosystems. According to scientists health of the coral reefs is essential to the health of the world’s oceans. Highlights: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration along with the University of Maryland…
Read MoreSecond National Water Awards: Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Rajasthan secure top position.
10 November 2020. Introduction: Tamil Nadu has bagged the first place under the ‘Best State’ category under the National Water Awards (NWAs) 2019, presented by the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti, Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation.Maharashtra came up second and Rajasthan came in third. About National Water Award 2019: The National…
Read MoreAustralia –India Water Centre inaugurated.
10 November 2020. Introduction: Australia-India Water Centre was inaugurated virtually through a Webinar.The Water Centre is led by University of Western Sydney from Australia and IIT Guwahati from India along with 21 other partners from India and Australia. Australia India Water Centre (AIWC) Dan Tehan, Education Minister, Australia and Jal Shakti Minister of India, Gajendra…
Read MoreNASA :Earth Surface Mass has deviated.
10 November 2020. Introduction: NASA recently announced that the Earth Mass has deviated in August 2020 as compared to that of 2004-09.The increase in sea level may be due to the change in earth mass. Highlights: The change in earth mass is mainly caused due to land movement relative to sea. The changes in land…
Read More49% of Ganga Has High Biodiversity:study by Wildlife Institute of India.
9 November 2020. Introduction: ,At the end of the Ganga Utsav celebrations which mark the 12th anniversary of declaring the Ganga as a national river, the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) in the second phase of its survey of the entire main stem of the Ganga river has found that 49 per cent of the…
Read MoreWhat are Tarballs fastening Himalayan Glacial melting?
8 November 2020. Introduction: A team of researchers from the Zhejiang University have reported an increase in the percentage of tarballs in the Himalayan region. What are tarballs? Tarballs are small light-absorbing, carbonaceous particles formed due to burning of biomass or fossil fuels that deposit on snow and ice. This increases their light absorbing capability…
Read MoreIndian Meterological Deapartment to provide predictions for Malaria from next monsoon.
7 November 2020. Introduction. Ministry of Earth Sciences has announced that The India Meteorological Department (IMD) will start issuing forecast for outbreaks of malaria from next monsoon. Highlights: India also plans to ramp up its high-performance computing (HPC) facility from the existing capacity of 10 petaflops to 40 petaflops This will significantly help in improving weather…
Read MoreWhy did India skip Cyclones in October,2020? How is it related to Madden Julian Osccillation.?
7 November 2020. Introduction: The East and West Coasts of India are prone to cyclones with maximum hazards such as winds, storm surge and heavy winds. However, this October 2020 missed such events during this monsoon. Highlights Around 80 cyclones are formed around the world every year. Out of these, five are formed in Arabian…
Read More500 meter tall Coral Reef discovered in Australia Great Barrier Reef.
6 November 2020. Introduction: The scientists have discovered a massive detached coral reef in the Great Barrier Reef of Australia. It is the first to be discovered in 120 years. The reef is taller than the Empire State Building of the United States. Highlights The reef was discovered by the Australian Scientists from the Schmidt…
Read MoreTamil Nadu: 100% Motor Vehicle Tax Exemption to EVs.
3 November 2020. Introduction: Government of Tamilnadu has notified that it will grant 100 per cent exemption of vehicle tax for battery-operated vehicles (Electric Vehicles). Highlights: The State Government has exempted taxes to both transport and non-transport vehicles. The State Government is already providing incentives to attract investments. The Tamil Nadu Government provides 100% GST reimbursement…
Read MoreGOI releases first insatalment of Rs.2,200 crores to 15 states to improve Air Quality measures.
3 November 2020. Introduction: The central government has released Rs 2,200 crore as the first instalment to 15 states for undertaking measures towards improvement of air quality. Highlights The amount was released based on the recommendations of the Fifteenth Finance Commission. The fund will help states undertake air quality measures and capacity building in local…
Read MoreMansar Lake Development Project of J&K: Key Facts.
2 November 2020. Introduction: On November 1, 2020, the Union Minister of Development of the North Eastern Region Shri Jitendra Singh inaugurated the Mansar Lake Development Plan in Jammu and Kashmir. Highlights It is planned to attract more than 20 lakh tourists every year. It is expected to generate employment of 1.15 crores of man-days.…
Read MoreUNESCO lists Panna under Biosphere Reserves.
2 November 2020. Introduction: Madhya Pradesh’s Panna National Park has been declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.. This addition to the UNESCO list will help in exploring new measures towards the conservation of wildlife. Highlights The UNESCO, under its Man and Biosphere programme has included Panna Biosphere region as one of its Biosphere Reserve. Panna National…
Read MoreIndian Oil and IISC join hands for Hydrogen Generation Technology.
2 November 2020. Introduction: The IISc and the Indian Oil Corporation Research and Development Centre signed a Memorandum of Understanding to develop biomass gasification-based Hydrogen Generation Technology to produce Fuel Cell Grade Hydrogen at an affordable price. Highlights The technology being envisaged under the programme will provide clean energy option to address the challenge of…
Read MorePresident promulgates Ordinance to constitute Air Quality Management Commission in NCR.
29 October 2020. Introduction; President Ram Nath Kovind has promulgated an ordinance to constitute a Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and adjoining areas. Aim of the Commission: The commission will work towards better coordination, research, identification and resolution of problems surrounding the Air Quality Index in the NCR and adjoining areas.…
Read MoreTwo New Ramsar Sites designated in India.
27 October 2020. Introduction: The Kabartal Wetland in Bihar and Asan Conservation Reserve in Uttrakhand have been designated as Ramsar sites, building them ‘Wetlands of International Importance’. About Kabartal Wetland? Kabartal Wetland also called as Kanwar Jheel. It protects the 2,620 hectares of the Indo-Gangetic plains in the Begusarai district of Bihar. It acts as…
Read MoreVulture Conservation Centres to be established in 5 states of India.
27 October 2020. Introduction: The National Board for Wildlife recently approved an action plan for vulture conservation, 2020-20-25. Under the new National Action Plan for Vulture Conservation, five new conservation centres are to be established in five different states. National Action Plan for Vulture Conservation The plan was approved by the National Board for Wildlife on…
Read MoreGovt. of India to create a permanent body to control air pollution in Delhi.
27 October 2020 Introduction: The Government of India on 26 October 2020 informed the Supreme Court that it will soon legislate a permanent body to handle the air pollution problems in Delhi. The body is likely to mainly focus on pollution caused due to stubble burning. Highlights On October 16, 2020, the Supreme Court of…
Read MoreSuture Zone in Himalayas has become tectonically active.
26 October 2020 Introduction: The suture zone of the Himalayas or the Indus Suture Zone (ISZ) in the Ladakh region where Indian and Asian Plates are joined, has been found to be tectonically active. Highlights of the study: A group of Scientists from Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG), Dehradun, an autonomous institute under the…
Read MoreStudy on Himalayan Brown Bear: Declining Habitats.
24 October 2020. Introduction: A study carried out in the western Himalayas by scientists of Zoological Survey of India have predicted a massive habitat decline of about 73.38% to 72.87% of the Himalayan brown bear by the year 2050 in the climate change scenario. Highlights of the study: Lalit Sharma, head of wildlife section…
Read MoreInternational Snow Leopard Day is observed on October 23.
23 October 2020. Introduction: October 23 is celebrated as World’s Snow Leopard Day every year to protect and conserve snow leopards and other wildlife of the Himalayas. It is also celebrated as International Snow Leopard Day. Highlights: This day came into being on October 23, 2013, when 12 countries came together to endorse the ‘Bishkek…
Read MoreIMD commissions Flash Floods Guidance Services in South Asia.
23 October 2020. Introduction: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) launched the South Asian Flash Flood Guidance System (FFGS) on 23 October 2020. It is aimed at helping disaster management teams and governments to take timely action by making evacuation plans ahead of the actual event of flooding. Highlights: The service is first of its kind…
Read MoreKaleshwaram irrigation project got environmental clearance ‘ex post facto’ in violation of law: NGT.
20 October 2020. Introduction: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on 20th October 2020 held that environmental clearance was granted to the Kaleshwaram lift irrigation project in Telangana “ex post facto” in violation of legal requirement, and formed a committee to assess the extent of damage caused and identify the restoration measures. Highlights: MoEF has been…
Read MoreWorld’s biggest Zinc Smelter Project in Gujrat: Some Facts.
17 October 2020. Introduction: Gujrat government has signed a pact with Vedanta Group Firm- Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL)V to set up a greenfield zinc smelter in the state on 14th October 2020. Highlights: The project will entail an investment of up to Rs 10,000 crore. The facility spread over 415 acres will entail an investment…
Read MoreState of Climate Services Report of WMO: Key Facts.
15 October 2020. Introduction: The State of Climate Report 2020, prepared by WMO and 17 partners organizations and initiatives, highlights progress made in EWS implementation globally and identifies where and how governments can invest in effective EWS to strengthen countries’ resilience to multiple weather, climate and water-related hazards. Highlights: Frequency, severity and intensity of extreme climate events…
Read MoreIMD launches improved SILAM and ENFUSER models to monitor Air Quality in the country.
14 October 2020. Introduction: According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences,The India Meteorological Department has operationalised an advanced high-resolution air quality early warning system for the national capital as well as a separate one for the country. Highlights: A very high-resolution city scale modelENFUSER (ENvironmental information FUsion SERvice) for Delhi has been operationalised to identify…
Read MoreZoological Survey of India: Climate Change has driven butterflies and moths to higher Himalayas.
12 October 2020. Introduction: A new study commissioned by the government has found that Rising average temperatures in the Himalayan region have driven several dozen species of butterfly and moth to habitats higher up the mountains. Highlights: The findings of the study will be used as a baseline indicator to track the impact of climate…
Read MoreEight Indian Beaches to get Blue Flag International Eco- Label.
12 October 2020. Introduction: Eight beaches in India have been awarded the prestigious ‘Blue Flag’ certification, the Union Environment Ministry said on Sunday. The beaches which have been awarded the certification are spread across five states and two Union Territories. Terming it a “proud moment” for the country, Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar said the certification is a…
Read MoreWhat is National Action Plan for Conservation of Migratory Birds?
12 October 2020. Introduction: On the occasion of World Migratory Day on 10th October 2020, Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Prakash Javadekar announced that India has launched a national action plan for the conservation of migratory birds along with the Central Asian Flyway. Highlights: Saving migratory bird is saving the wetlands and terrestrial habitats and saving…
Read MoreWhat is Graded Response Action Plan?
11 October 2020. Introduction: Some stricter measures to fight air pollution will come into force in Delhi and its neighbouring National Capital Region (NCR) towns, as part of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) from 15th October.The action plan has been in effect for three years in Delhi and NCR. What is GRAP? The GRAP…
Read MoreDelhi Cabinet gives nod for ‘Tree Transplantation Policy’.
10 October 2020. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Delhi Cabinet at a meeting approved the ‘Tree Transplantation Policy’ for the preservation of trees in the Capital. They also gave nod for the installation of the second smog tower in the world at Connaught Place within ten months.A minimum of 80% of trees affected by a…
Read MoreOctober 10 World Migratory Bird Day.
10 October 2020. Introduction: World Migratory Day is celebrated bi-annually on the second Saturday in May and in October. World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) is an awareness-raising campaign highlighting the need for the conservation of migratory birds and their habitats. It aims to draw attention to the threats faced by migratory birds, their ecological importance, and the need…
Read MoreIonic Acid drives Arctic Amplification.
9 October 2020. Introduction: A team of scientists have identified iodic acid (HIO3) as a novel driver of Arctic Amplification or Arctic Warming. Presence of Iodic acid in the region had not been observed previously. Highlights: These aerosol particles influence the formation of clouds. As these clouds reflect solar radiation but also retain heat on the Earth’s surface, they…
Read MoreIMD to launch Impact- based Cyclone Warning System.
9 October 2020. Introduction: According to Director General Mrutunjay Mohapatra India Meteorology Department will release dynamic and impact-based cyclone warnings for districts this season to minimize economic losses and damage to property due to the intense weather system. Highlights: The new system will give specific warnings about the kind of infrastructure that is likely to…
Read MoreUS stops funding relocation projects from Protected Areas:Effects on India.
8 October 2020. Introduction: The US government has halted more than $12 million of funding to WWF, the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and other conservation NGOs in a major blow to the conservation industry. The move follows details how conservation organisations such as WWF failed to inform the US government that programs it was funding were responsible for…
Read MoreEuropean Union Parliament voted for 60% Emission cut by 2030.
6 October 2020. Introduction: The European Union Parliament voted updating its climate target to reduce emissions by 60% by 2030 as compared to 1990 levels. Earlier EU had set a goal of reducing 40% emission by 2030. Highlights: The World Wildlife Fund and other Non-Governmental Organizations were insisting on at least 65% emission reduction by…
Read MoreCabinet approves Ratification of seven Persistent Organic Pollutants listed under Stockholm Convention.
7 October 2020. Introduction: Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has approved the Ratification of seven (7) chemicals listed under Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). The Cabinet further delegated its powers to ratify chemicals under the Stockholm Convention to Union Ministers of External Affairs (MEA) and Environment, Forest and…
Read MoreCSIRO: 14 million tonnes of microplastic on sea-floor.
7 October 2020. Introduction: The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) analysed the deep ocean 380km (236 miles) from the coast of South Australia and found that the amount of very small plastic particles on the seafloor was more than double the amount of plastic pollution on the surface of the sea globally.According to…
Read MoreEco disaster unfolding on Kamchatka beach: Reasons.
7 October 2020. Introduction: An ‘ecological disaster’ of sorts is unfolding on a black volcanic beach of the Kamchatka Peninsula in the Russian Far East. Highlights: A special envoy under Russian President Vadimir Putin was deployed for an immediate inquiry. The team found that the levels of phenols and oil compounds in the sea had increased that…
Read MoreGanga River Dolphin Day.
5 October 2020. Introduction: India celebrates Ganga River Dolphin Day on October 5 every year. The day is celebrated since 2010. This is because, it was on October 5, the dolphins were declared as National Aquatic Animal. Highlights: This year, the National Mission for Clean Ganga launched the following programmes to celebrate Ganga River Dolphin…
Read MoreCentre extends deadline for new emission norms for tractors to Oct 2021
6 October 2020. Introduction: The government has extended deadlines for applicability of new emission norms for construction equipment vehicles and tractors to next year. These were supposed to be applicable from 2020. Highlights: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is bringing in the extension of date through the amendment to CMVR. CMVR is Control Motor Vehicle Rules. Under…
Read MoreAmazon Risks Changing From Forest To Savanna: Study
6 October 2020 Introduction: A team of Europe-based scientists used the latest available atmospheric data to conclude that the tropical forests especially the Amazon are slowly changing into Savannah like environment. Highlights: Due to low rainfall in the Amazon up to 40% of it risks tipping over into a savanna-like environment, with far fewer trees…
Read MoreBio –Decomposer spraying to counter Stubble burning in Delhi.
6 October 2020. Introduction: The Kejriwal government of Delhi has built a center in the garden of Kharkhadi Nahar in Najafgarh, where a large scale bio-decomposer solution prepared by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, is being prepared for smelting the straw. Spraying of this ‘Bio Decomposer’ solution is going to start in the fields from…
Read MoreIndia’s First Five animal bridges.
4 October 2020. Introduction: India is set to see its first-ever animal overpasses, aimed to facilitate safe passage of wildlife., These passes will be built to ensure smooth movement of animals and to ensure that the Ranthambore Wildlife Corridor, connecting Ranthambore and Mukundra (Darrah) wildlife sanctuaries, are not disturbed Highlights: The plan of the animal bridges have been approved…
Read MoreNational Wildlife Week,2020.
4 October 2020. Introduction: Wildlife Week is celebrated every year in India between October 2 and 8. The annual theme of the campaign is to promote the preservation of fauna – i.e. animal life.It has been celebrated since 1954. Wildlife Week 2020 marks the 66th Wildlife Weekwhich is celebrated under the theme RoaR (Roar and Revive) – Exploring…
Read MoreHydrocracies,Hubris and Hazardscapes,the man-made factors that lead to floods in Brahamputra.
4 October 2020. Introduction: Assam is a flood-prone state with its vast network of rivers. A comibination of natural and mad made factors have contributed to the flood-related devastation in the state. Natural Reasons: The Brahmaputra and Barak River with more than 50 numbers of tributaries feeding them, causes the flood devastation in the monsoon…
Read MoreAerial Seeding by Indian Navy Helicopters in Vishakhapatnam.
3 October 2020. Introduction: Indian Navy is partnering with Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) in undertaking Aerial Seeding at Visakhapatnam. Highlights: The initiative of GVMC is aimed to enhance the green cover in and around Visakhapatnam. It was flagged off by Rajya Sabha MPs and Officer Commanding-in-Chief ENC at INS Dega on 02 October 2020. …
Read MoreWhat are “Zombie Fires” that are burning the Arctic?
1 October 2020. Introduction: According to a new study the once frozen tundra region of the Arctic is witnessing ‘Zombie fires’. Frequent Zombie fires in the Arctic region have changed the fire regimes in the Arctic. What is a Zombie fire? A ‘zombie fire’ is a fire from a previous growing season that can smoulder under…
Read MoreArsenic effected habitations in India increase by 145% in the last five years.
22 September 2020. Introduction: Arsenic contamination in groundwater is one of the most crippling issues in the drinking water scenario of India. As per data submitted by the Jal Shakti Ministry, the arsenic-affected habitations have surged by 145% in the last five years.This was provided as written reply to the Lok Sabha by the…
Read MoreSucker Mouth Catfish found in Ganges: a threat to Ganga Ecosystem.
27 September 2020. Introduction: A species of catfish native to the Amazon River in South America has now been found in the River Ganges in Varanasi. This fish was located in Ganges river passing through Ramna in Ramnagar. Highlights: According to the scientists in BHU,this fish is found in Amazon River in South America. The…
Read MoreWorld Rhino Day: September 22.
22 September 2020. Introduction: Every year on September 22, World Rhinoceros Day is celebrated across the world. The World Rhinoceros Day was announced by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in 2010. The day celebrates the animal and encourages people to take steps for its conservation.This is especially true for 5 species of Rhinos living in Asia…
Read MoreAirbus to launch World’s first Commercial Hydrogen aircraft by 2035.
22 September 2020. Introduction: Aviation giant Airbus is set to launch world’s first zero-emission commercial aircraft which could enter into service by 2035. This will be powered by hydrogen – an option that is believed to hold promise as a clean aviation fuel and is likely to be a solution for aerospace and many other…
Read MoreO-Smart Scheme: Tsunami Early Warning Centre providing services to 25 Indian Ocean Countries. universities
22 September 2020. Introduction: Union Minister Harsh Vardhan in a written reply told Rajya Sabha that Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre is leading the way in responding to a Tsunami and providing Tsunami Services to 25 Indian Ocean countries through O- Smart Schmeme. Highlights of the O- Smart Scheme: India has better Tsunami prediction models…
Read MoreGOI sets up Hydrogen Energy Development Targets.
22 September 2020. Introduction: The government plans to set targets for hydrogen energy development. Highlights Currently the Government of India has set a target to generate 175 gigawatts of renewable energy by 2022 . Hydrogen has not been included in the target. This includes, 100 Watts of solar power, 60 gigawatts of wind, 10 GW…
Read MoreEight Indian Beaches recommended for Blue Flag International Eco-Label.
19 September 2020. Introduction: On the occasion of the International Coastal Clean –up day, eight beaches of India have been recommended for the prestigious international eco-label, Blue Flag for the first time.It is one of the world’s most recognised voluntary eco-labels awarded to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators. Highlights: The announcement was made…
Read MoreMinistry of Ayush sign agreement to boost Medicinal Plant Cultivation.
24 September 2020. Introduction: In a historic event today, the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB), Ministry of AYUSH signed an MoU through virtual meeting with the major AYUSH and Herbal industry bodies covering a set of measures to promote medicinal plant cultivation. Highlights: The industry bodies which signed the MoU include : ADMA (Ayurvedic Drug…
Read MoreIndia attends Ministerial Roundtable Dialogue on Biodiversity.
24 September 2020 Introduction: Union Environment and Forest Minister Prakash Javdekar attended Ministerial Roundtable Dialogue on biodiversity hosted by China on 24 September via video conferencing.He emphasised that India has enhanced the Forest cover with 25% of total geographical area of the country. India now has largest population of wild tiger with tiger population doubling…
Read MoreStandards for Safety Evaluation of vehicles propelled by Hydrogen Fuel Cells.
24 September 2020. Introduction: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has notified the Standards for Safety Evaluation of vehicles being propelled by Hydrogen Fuel cells through an amendment to Central Motor Vehicles Rules 1989 dated 23rd September, 2020. Related New Rules: According to the new rules, the vehicles under Category M and N that…
Read MoreCyanobacteria: Cause of death in 330 Botswana Elephnats.
23 September 2020. Introduction: According to the wildlife department,330 elephants died in Botswana’s famed Okavango Delta .The first mass death occurred in May 2020 when 169 elephants were found dead.Later in July 281 were found dead. The cause of death is the water poisoned by cyanobacteria. About Cyanobacteria: Cyanobacteria are microscopic organisms common in water…
Read MoreMedicane hits Greece: World Meteorological Organisation.
20 September 2020. Introduction: On September 18 2020, Greece was impacted by a so-called Medicane (MEDIterranean hurriCANE), by the name of Ianos bringing high winds and waves and torrential rain and the risk of flooding. What are Medicanes and how they differ from tropical cyclones? Simply put hurricanes occurring in the Mediterranean are called Medicanes.…
Read MoreWorld Environmental Health Day: Celebrated on 26 September.
26 September 2020. Introduction: The World Environment Health Day is globally observed on 26 September every year. Aim is to highlight the work being done on environment health around the world. Theme for year 2020: Environmental health, a key public intervention in disease pandemic prevention. It is being targeted towards preventing the disease and creating…
Read MoreProject Dolphin.
5 September 2020. Introduction: In his Independence Day Speech this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the government’s plan to launch a Project Dolphin. The proposed project is aimed at saving both river and marine dolphins. What will Project Dolphin do? Project Dolphin will be on the lines of Project Tiger. This initiative got in-principle approval in December last…
Read MoreUNEP launches” Green Nudges’’ programme for universities.
5 September 2020. Introduction: The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) has launched a new publication, “The Little Book of Green Nudges”. It aims to inspire up to 200 million students to adopt environmentally friendly habits and life styles. Highlights: The book is UNEP’s first on behavioural science and nudge theory. It focuses on human actions and…
Read MoreKaziranga set to be expanded by 3,053 hectares.
4 September 2020. Introduction: The Assam government has recently approved the addition of 30.53 sq. km ( 3,053 hectares) to the 884 sq. km Kaziranga National Park. Highlights: Area is being added after 35 years. The government issued a notification approving the seventh, eighth, and ninth additions to the World Heritage Site. With these additions…
Read MoreGOI: Currently working on rejuvenation of 13 rivers.
3 September 2020. Introduction: The Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on 3rd September announced that the centre is working on rejuvenation of 13 rivers. The minister announced this on the occasion of celebration of “Cauvery Calling” movement. Highlights The 13 rivers that are under rejuvenation are Beas, Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Sutlej, Yamuna, Luni, Narmada, Godavari, Cauvery,…
Read MoreFood policy changes could reduce global emissions, says UNEP Report.
4 September 2020. Introduction: The United Nations Environment Programme recently released a report, “Enhancing Nationally Determined Contributions for Food Systems”. According to the report, adding diet and food loss to climate change shall improve mitigation and adaptation contributions towards food systems by 25%.. Highlights The report suggests ways to address the issues in food system…
Read MoreBiodiversity Council to be set up in Jammu and Kashmir.
2 September 2020. Introduction: The Jammu and Kashmir government has set up a 10-member council for conservation of biological diversity and sustainable use of its components in the Union territory. General Administrative Department (GAD), has sanctioned the constitution of the Jammu and Kashmir Biodiversity Council. Highlights: The Principal Chief Conservator of Forests will be the…
Read MoreLandslide Susceptibity mapping of Himalayas.
1 September 2020. Introduction: Several landslides occurring in Mussorie has led scientists to map the landslide susceptibility of Mussoorie and surrounding areas, showing that the region is highly susceptible to landslides. Highlights: Scientists from Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG), an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology, Govt. of India, carried out the…
Read MoreIndia Develops World’s Largest Solar Tree.
1 September 2020 Introduction: Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CMERI) working under CSIR have installed a ‘solar tree’ that is likely to be the largest of its kind in the world in Durgapur Residential Complex in West Bengal. Highlights: Availablity of land is the major hurdle in setting up the solar panels on large scale.…
Read MoreNITI Aayog launches NDC-TIA.
28 August 2020 Introduction: NITI Aayog has virtually launched the India Component of the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC)-Transport Initiative for Asia (TIA) on 26 August 2020. Highlights: The transport, energy, and climate stakeholders in India will be informed about planned project activities for the upcoming year. It will also offer the opportunity to provide input…
Read MoreIndia recycles only 1% of its demolition waste: Centre for Science and Environment.
28 August 2020. Introduction: According to a report released by Delhi –based non-profit organisation, Centre For Science and Environment ( CSE) , India uses only 1% of its construction and demolition waste. Highlights of the report: According to the Building Material Promotion Council, India generates 150million of C&D waste every year. However, the official recycling…
Read MoreRs. 1,200 Crore plan to hook Ladakh with National Power Grid.
27 August 2020 Introduction: The Govt of India is all set to implement a Rs. 1200 crore project to connect Nubra valley and Zanskar with the National Power Grid. Highlights: Srinagar- Leh transmission line will power Nubra and Zanskar. The Rural Electrification Corporation is to implement the project. Two 220 KV lines will be laid…
Read MoreRare Fish ‘’Masheer” sighted in Sileru river.
25 August 202 Introduction: A team of researchers from the Department of Zoology, Andhra Pradesh have sighted a rare fish called Masheer in the upper part of the Sileru river. Highlights: Scientific name is Tor putitora. IUCN Status- Endangered. Mahseer, is normally found in the Himalayan region in the rivers running through the cooler climes…
Read MoreInternational Conference on Climate Change and its Impact on Himalayan Region to be held in India.
25 August 2020. Introduction: A three-day online international conference on aerosol air quality, climate change and its impact on water resources and livelihoods in the Greater Himalayas will be held from September 14 to 16. Highlights: The Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES), Nainital and Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University will jointly organise the…
Read MoreDragonfly Festival.
23 August 2020. Introduction: WWF-India State unit and the Society for Odonate Studies (SOS) and Thumbipuranam have joined hands for the first-ever State Dragonfly Festival in Kerala, named as Thumbimahotsavam 2020. Highlights: This the first ever State Dragonfly festival to be held in India. It is being organised by WWF India,Bombay Natural History Society and…
Read MoreCAMPA Funds to be used plantation drives and afforestation alone.
18 August 2020. Introduction: Mr. Prakash Javadekar , the Union Minister for Environment, chaired a virtual meeting attended by chief ministers of Arunachal Pradesh and Goa ,the deputy chief ministers and 24 forests ministers from throughout the country. He announced that 80% of the CAMPA Funds will be used for plantation and afforestation while the…
Read MoreIndia sends technical equipment, 10-member team to Mauritius to help contain oil spill.
17 August 2020. Introduction: India has sent 30 tonnes of technical equipment and material on board an IAF aircraft to Mauritius to help the country contain an oil spill on its pristine south-east coast. This is in line with Prime Minister’s vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region), to deal with…
Read MoreCovid-19 becomes deadlier than ever before: New COVID -19 strain detected in Malaysia
17 August 2020. Introduction: Malaysia has recently detected a new COVID-19 strain that is 10 times more infectious . It is called D614G. Highlights: It started from a restaurant owner who returned from India. He breached the 14 day Home Quarantine. Malaysian Government states that the mutation has been found in atleast 3 of 45…
Read MoreNTPC develops infrastructure for increased use of Fly Ash.
17 August 2020. Introduction: National Thermal Power Corporation, NTPC has developed an infrastructure at Rihand project in Uttar Pradesh to transport fly ash in bulk to cement plants at a cheaper cost. Highlights: The initiative is in line with NTPC’s commitment to achieve 100 percent productive utilization of fly ash from power plants. The innovation…
Read MorePM launches Project Lion, Project Dolphin on I-Day.
15 August 2020 Introduction: Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his 74th Independence Day speech, announced the launch of Project Lion and Project Dolphin.He stated that this is coming after the resounding success of Project Tiger and Project Elephant. Highlights: Project Lion: Project Lion would involve conservation of the Asiatic Lion, and its landscape. The project will…
Read MoreHuge amount of Carbon Dioxide released by Himalayan Geothermal Springs.
11 August 2020. Introduction: According to a study by the scientists of the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG), The Himalayas host hundreds of geothermal springs and they release a huge amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. WIGH,(Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology) is a Dehradun-based institute under the Department of Science and Technology. Highlights: Carbon dioxide…
Read MoreSurakshya: National Portal of “Project Elephant” launched.
12 August 2020. Introduction: National Portal on Human Elephant conflict called “Surakshya” has been launched by the Union Minister for Environment Prakash Javdekar. The portal was launched on the ocassion of World Elephant Day, which is observed on 12th August. Highlights: SURAKHSYA will manage the conflicts on a real-time basis. It will help to set…
Read More77 New species of butterflies found in Maharashtra.
10 August 2020. Introduction: 77 new species of butterflies have been found in the ecological sensitive forest of Matheran hill station in Mumbai.This study was conducted by the Bombay Natural History Society. Now the total number of butterfly species has gone up to 140. Highlights: The maximum diversity of butterflies was recorded in winter and…
Read MoreEnvistats India 2020 report.
9 August 2020. Introduction: National Statistical Office (NSO) operated under Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation released the Envistas India 2020 report. According to the report the number of heat wave days has increased over 80% in 2019. Highlights of the report: Heat Waves: The average number of heat wave days has increased by 82.6% year-on-year…
Read MoreIndia’s first snow leopard conservation centre to come up in Uttarakhand.
6 August 2020. Introduction: Uttarakhand State Forest Department and UNDP is set to open India’s first conversation centre for snow leopards in Uttarakashi district soon. Aim of the Project: The goal of setting up the centre is conservation, restoration of Himalayan ecosystems, and creating livelihoods for local people. The project also aims at the conservation…
Read MoreSwach Bharat Kranti: Highlights.
5 August 2020. Introduction: The book Swach Bharat Kranti was launched by the Union Jal Shakti Minister ,Shri Gajender Singh Shekahwat and Smt Smriti Irani the Minister of Union Textiles and Women and Child Development. Highlights: Swach Bharat Kranti is Hindi translation of the book “The Swach Bharat Revolution”. It is edited by Shri Parmeswaran…
Read MoreIndia’s tourism ministry inaugurates Thenzawl Golf Resort project in Mizoram.
4 August 2020. Introduction: The Union Minister of State For Culture and Tourism Shri Prahlad Singh Patel inaugurated the “Thenzawl Golf Resort”project. This was a virtual inauguration and will be implemented under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme. Highlights: The Golf Course at Thenzawl is 105 acres.75 acres of the play area is designed by Graham Cooke…
Read MoreEIA Notification 2020.
4August 2020. Introduction: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has published the draft Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification 2020, with the intention of replacing the existing EIA Notification, 2006 under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. What is an EIA? An EIA makes a scientific estimate of the likely impacts of a project, such as a mine,…
Read MoreOne in every Three Child are Poisoned by Lead: UNICEF Report.
1 August 2020. Introduction: Lead poisoning is affecting children on a massive and previously unknown scale, according to a new report launched by UNICEF and Pure Earth. Highlights: World’s one –third population which is about 800 million are affected by lead poisoning. Half of the affected are from South-Asia. India accounts for 275,561,163 of these…
Read More6th BRICS Environment meeting held in Russia.
31 July 2020. Introduction: The 6th BRICS Environment meeting was held online via video conferencing under the presidency of Russia on 30th July 2020.The environment ministers of all the 6 countries participated in the meeting. Highlights: Union Environment Minister Prakash Javdekar represented India in the meeting and emphasised India’s concern towards attaining SDG( Sustainable Development…
Read MorePolar bears on the verge of extinction by 2100.
31 July 2020. Introduction: The Polar bears will go extinct due to starvation by the end of the century if the Arctic ice continues to melt at its projected rate. About the report: According to the report published in July 2020 issue of “Nature Climate Change”,most of the polar bears will become extinct by the…
Read MoreAerial seeding in Aravali Region.
31July 2020. Introduction: Haryana forest department has used drone technology to shower seeds in the hard to access region to improve green cover in the Aravalli area of Faridabad. Seeding drone has been designed by an IIT-Kanpur backed startup. Highlights: These special drones help to shower seeds in areas of Aravallis that are hard to…
Read MoreTiger Population in India increased 6% per annum: Tiger Reports 2018.
30 July 2020. Introduction: According to a survey done by the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, tiger population is on rise at the rate of 6 per cent every year from 2006 and 2018. Highlights: Union Minister for Environment Prakash Javadekar released the Tiger Report 2018 a day before Global Tiger Day( 29th…
Read MoreNational Green Tribunal brings in stricter rules for commercial use of ground water.
28 July 2020. Introduction: National Green Tribunal has specifically banned the general permission for the withdrawal of groundwater, especially to the commercial entities without an environment impact assessment. Highlights: National Green Tribunal has made guidelines for the commercial use of ground water more stringent. The permit should be for a specified quantity of water and…
Read MoreUnited Nations: Nitrogen Dioxide levels fell by 70% in Delhi.
28 July 2020. Introduction: According to a report by United Nations, levels of nitrogen dioxide fell by more than 70 per cent during the lockdown in New Delhi. However, it stated that the environmental gains could be temporary if the cities re-open without policies to prevent air pollution and promote de-carbonisation. Highlights: Nitrogen Dioxide levels…
Read MoreGlobal Forest Resources Assessment of FAO: India ranks third in forest cover.
26 July 2020. Introduction: Global Forest Resources Assessment report 2020 has been released by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). India has ranked third among the 10 countries where forest cover has increased in the last 10 years. Highlights: The report by FAO is brought out once in every five years. The report assesses…
Read MoreFrench Refinery spills toxic chemicals into Mediterranean Sea.
25 July 2020. Introduction: An orange-brown chemical sheet spread over 15 acres (6 hectares) of a nationally recognized marine life area in the French Mediterranean following a leak at a petrochemical plant in southern France on 24 July 2020. Highlights: The leak at the Lavera refinery of the American owned chemical company Kem – One…
Read MoreAssam Floods: 108 animals die in Kaziranga National Park.
20 July 2020. Introduction: According to announcement made by the State Govt. of Assam, as many as 108 animals have died in the Kaziranga National Park in the recent floods. Highlights: According to a bulletin issued by park authorities nearly 85% area of the park, spread over 430 sq km is under water at present.…
Read MoreScientists find Giant Sea Cockroaches in the Eastern Indian Ocean.
19 July 2020. Introduction: Researchers from Singapore have discovered a “Super Giant Isopod” species, a cockroach. This happened when they explored waters of the Indian Ocean in Bantan, southern coast of West Java in Indonesia. The new species has been named “Bathynomus raksasa.” About Bathynomus raksasa: Bathynomus raksasa is a giant isopod in the genus Bathynomus. In general,…
Read MoreGOI hails KURMA mobile app to conserve Indian Turtles.
19 July 2020. Introduction: A mobile based application called KURMA was launched on 23 May 2020- the World Turtle Day. Union Minister for Environment hailed the KURMA application to track and report turtles. Highlights of the app: The application, is developed by the Indian Turtle Conservation Action Network (ITCAN) in collaboration with the Turtle Survival…
Read MoreZonal Master Plan of Bhagirthi Eco- Sensitive Zone approved.
16 July 2020. Introduction: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change(MoEF&CC) on 16th July,2020 approved the Zonal Master Plan (ZMP) prepared by the Government of Uttarakhand and Ministry of Jal Shakti.This was announced by Shri Prakash Javdekar in a video conference review meeting of the Char Dham Road Project. Highlights; The Bhagirathi Eco-Sensitive Zone notification…
Read MoreNationwide Tree Plantation Drive of CAPFs launched by the Home Minister.
13 July 2020. Introduction: Union Home Minister, Shri Amit Shah planted a sapling of the ‘peepal’ tree at the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Campus in Gurugram today to mark the launch of the CAPFs nationwide tree plantation drive undertaken by the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs). Highlights: The tree plantation drive was inaugurated on…
Read MoreFourth Cycle of Al India Tiger Estimation 2018 enters Guinness Book of World Records.
July 11,2020. Introduction: The fourth cycle of the All India Tiger Estimation 2018, has entered the Guiness World Record for being the world’s largest camera trap wildlife survey.The results of this survey were declared to the nation on Global Tiger Day last year by Prime Minister,Shri Narendra Modi. This is a shining example of Atma…
Read MoreSouthern Birdwing’s 88 year old record broken by Golden Birdwing to become the largest butterfly in India.
6 July 2020. Introduction: Himalayan butterfly named Golden Birdwing is India’s largest butterfly in India now.It replaces Souther Birdwing which held the record for last 88 years.In 1932 British Army Officer Brigadier William Harry Evans a Lepidopterist had recorded Southern Birdwing butterfly with wingspan of 190mm to be the largest butterfly.Evans measured the butterfly from…
Read MoreAssam Govt decides to upgrade Dehing Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary into National Park.
6 July 2020. Introduction: The Assam government has decided to upgrade Dehing Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary into a national park. This was announced by the Chief Minister of Assam Sarbananda Sonowal. About Dehing Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary: Dehing Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam, is home to a vast variety of flora and fauna. The 111.942 sq km…
Read More“Mission Vriksharopan-2020” inaugurated by U.P Chief Minister on Guru Poornima
6 July 2020. Introduction: A campaign “Mission Vriksharopan-2020” has been launched by the Uttar Pradesh government. Highlights: Under this campaign, more than 25 crore saplings were planted on 5th July in Uttar Pradesh. The tree plantation drive was launched on the occasion of Guru Poornima and hence several people planted saplings to pay respect to their mentors. Chief Minister of U.P planted three…
Read MoreDelhi Govt launches 17 days of “Paudhe lagao,parayavaran bachao”!
2 July 2020. Introduction Delhi Government has planned to organise a mega tree plantation drive to plant 31 lakh saplings in 17 days under the campaign “Paudhe lagao,paryavaran bachao’’. Highlights: The campaign will be held from 10-26 July 2020. The information was passed by Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai on 2 July 2020. The campaign…
Read MoreMinistry of Culture celebrates “Sankalp Parav”on call of the Prime Minister.
27 June 2020. Introduction: Union Minister of State for Culture and Tourism (Independent charge)Shri Prahlad Singh Patel has called for organizing of “Sankalp Parva” and plant trees as desired by our Prime Minister. The Prime Minister has called for planting at least five trees wherever possible to ensure clean and healthy environment in the country.…
Read MoreSuccessful completion of trials of Indigenously Developed ULV Sprayer for Locust Control
24 June 2020 Introduction: Department of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers’ Welfare (DAC&FW), under Make in India initiative indigenously develop a vehicle-mounted ULV sprayer for locust control to overcome the limitation of importing equipment. Highlights: Mechanization and Technology Division of DAC&FW developed a prototype of the sprayer, through an Indian manufacturer. The trials of the sprayer were…
Read MoreProject ‘Decarbonising Transport in India’ to be launched on June 24 2020.
22 June 2020. Introduction: NITI Aayog in collaboration with International Transport Forum will launch the ‘Decarbonising Transport in India’ project on 24th June 2020. Aim of the project: The main aim of the project will be to develop a pathway towards a low-carbon transport system for India. Highlights: The Decarbonising Transport international project will be…
Read MoreBombay High Court seeks report from NEERI, GSI on Lonar lake colour change.
17 June 2020. Introduction: As the colour of the Lonar Lake in Mahahrashtra turns pink,the Nagpur bench of Bombay High Court has sought reports from the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) and the Geological Survey of India on the environmental impact assessment of the Lonar lake. Highlights: The expert team from NEERI and also…
Read MoreIndian Gaur faces mutation.
15June 2020. Introduction: Recently with the help of World Wide Fund India has carried out an estimation exercise of Indian Gaur in the Nilgris forest division of Tamil Nadu. This is the first estimation exercise being held in region. According to the exercise, there are around 2,000 Gaurs across the division. Highlights Accroding to the…
Read MoreAmazon deforestation hits highest level in 5 years.
13 June ,2020 Introduction: According to the National Institute of Space Research (INPE) the increase in deforestation of Amazon forests has been the highest in 2019 as compared to last 5 years. Highlights: It is estimated that the Amazon is vanishing at the rate of 20,000sq miles per year. At this rate the entire forest…
Read MoreUttarakhand opens Biodiversity Park in Haldwani .
11 June 2020. Introduction: Uttarakhand opens its first biodiversity park in Haldwani to encourage conservation especially of the medicinal plants as the state’s rich botanical heritage is facing threats from climate change, degrading landscapes, habitat loss and development activities. This was opened on World Environment Day in keeping with the theme of ‘’Celebrate Biodiversity” Highlights:…
Read MorePopulation of Asiatic lions in India up 29% in 5 years.
11 June,2020. Introducton: .According to a recent roport the population of the Asiatic lion living in the Gir Forest in Gujarat is up by almost 29% and, geographically, the distribution area is up by 36%. The good news was shared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Twitter and Instagram on June 10,2020. Highlights: Asiatic lion population…
Read MoreGuidelines for the Import of Exotic Species.
11 June,2020. Introduction: For the first time the Union ministry of environment, forest and climate change has issued an advisory to streamline the process of importing and possesing exotic species. • Many exotic species of birds, reptiles and amphibians are imported into India for commercial purposes. Highlights regarding the advisory: Exotic Animals: • The word…
Read MoreAssam Baghjan Oil Well Fire.
8 June ,2020 A massive fire broke out and engulfed the Baghjan oil field on June 9 2020. This well ( no 5) of Oil Indian Limited had blown out on 27th May and had been leaking gas for the past 14 days. How the blowout happened A blowout occurs as a result of increased…
Read MoreState of India’s Environment Report .
June 8 2020. The State of India’s Environment 2020 is published by the Centre for Science and Environment it covers forests, wildlife, agriculture, rural development, water and sanitation and climate change related aspects. Highlights of the report: More than 50 lakh internal displacements took place in India in 2019 and this is the highest in the…
Read MoreIndia ranks 168th on Environmental Performance Index .
June 8,2020 According to the researchers at Yale and Columbia universities, India ranked 168th out of 180 countries in 2020 EPI. What is Environmental Performance Index? EPI is a biennial scorecard of national results on a range of sustainability issues – prepared by Yale University and Columbia University in collaboration with the World Economic Forum.…
Read MoreNagar Van Scheme: World Environment Day.
5 June 2020. On the occasion of World Environment Day, the gohvernment today announced implementation of the Nagar van scheme to develop 200 Urban Forests across the country in next five years. This was announced during virtual celebrations held to celebrate World Environment Day. Introduction: .World Environment Day (WED) is celebrated on 5th June every year. …
Read MoreIncrease of Amery Ice Shelf by 24% by 2021.
5 June 2020. Introduction: The National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) in Goa has predicted that there would be a 24 per cent increase in the expansion of the Ameri Ice Shelf (AIS) boundaries in Antarctica by 2021. By the year 2026 there would be another increase of 24 % from its 2016…
Read MoreRare band-tail scorpion fish found live for first time in Indian waters.
1 June 2020. Introduction: The researchers at the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) have found a rare fish from Sethukarai coast of Tamil Nadu in the Gulf of Mannar. It was found during an underwater exploratory survey of seagrass ecosystem in the region.This is the first time that this species is found live in…
Read MoreA new “ silver fish “found in Velankanni.
28 May 2020. Introduction: A silver-hued freshwater fish has been found in Velankanni in a small water body in Tamil Nadu. It is a new species of small freshwater fish belonging to family Cyprinidae. Highlights: Fish has been named as Puntius sanctus,–“sanctus” in Latin means holy— after the popular pilgrim town. The fish was identified…
Read MoreSaharan Cheetah spotted for the first time in a decade in Algeria.
20, May 2020. Introduction: Saharan cheetah, has been filmed by naturalists in Algeria for the first time in a decade. The animal was spotted in the Hoggar Mountains national park . Highlights: A documentary has been shot on the work of the park’s scientists, which includes images of the cheetah taken in the Atakor volcanic…
Read MoreGovt launches five initiatives on International Day of Biodiversity in a first ever virtual meet on IDB.
22 May,2020. Introduction: In a virtual celebration of the International Day for Biological Diversity, Union Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday launched five key initiatives towards conservation of biodiversity. Highlights: “The Biodiversity Samrakshan Internship ‘’was launched. It aims to engage 20 students with postgraduate degrees for a period of one year …
Read MoreStates want early notification on eco-sensitive area of Western Ghats.
21 May 2020. Introduction: On May 21 Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Prakash Javadekar interacted with Chief Ministers, Cabinet ministers and government officers of six states on issues relating to a notification on Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA) of Western Ghats. Highlights: Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu were represented…
Read MoreMinistry of Enviornment gives OIL clearance for drilling in Assam’s Dibru Saikhowa Park.
20 May 2020 Introduction: On 20 May 2020 OIL announced that it has received environmental clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF) for its drilling project under Assam’s Dibru- Saikhowa National Park .It has laid to rest the concern regarding the affect drilling may have on the flora and fauna of…
Read MoreCo2 Emissions of India falls in 4 decades.
17 May 2020 Introduction: According to the latest analysis of CREA (Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air), the emissions of toxic carbon dioxide have declined in the country. Reason for the decline: An economic slowdown, renewable energy growth and the impact of Covid-19 have led to the first year-on-year reduction in India’s CO2…
Read MoreDrowning of barges in the Hooghly,threatens ecology of Sunderbans.
12 May 2020 Introduction: In early April, two barges carrying flyash from thermal power plants in West Bengal to Bangladesh capsized on the Hoogly river in West Bengal .The increasing incident of accidents involving barges carrying flyash is a cause of concern specially because the transport takes place through the Sundarbans . The areas involve…
Read MoreRoyal Bengal Tigers in Sunderbans increase to from 88 to 96.
7 May2020. Introduction: The number of tigers in the Sunderbans reserve forest in West Bengal has increased to 96 from the previous estimate of 88, according to an official report dated the 6th May 2020. The latest census, shows the number of tigers in the Sunderbans reserve forest in West Bengal has increased to 96.The…
Read MoreAfter The Ganga flows clean, flamingos are painting the city of Mumbai pink now.
2 May 2020. Introduction: The magic and beauty of the congregation of flamingos in and around the financial capital of the country is painting the city pink during the lockdown. Observations of BNHS: The Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), estimated that the numbers of flamingos in MMR are 25% more than last year. During January,…
Read MoreLockdown improves water quality of Ganga, Yamuna.
30 April 2020. Introduction: The nationwide lockdown imposed to curb the spread of Covid-19 has improved the quality of water in the rivers, noticeably in Ganga and Yamuna. A comparative assessment of pollution levels during pre-lockdown and lockdown periods was made through the analysis of data generated from 36 real-time water quality motoring systems.…
Read MoreIMD releases new list of 169 names of tropical cyclones over north Indian Ocean
30 April 2020. Introduction: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on 28th April 2020 released a new list with the names of 169 tropical cyclones that are likely to emerge over the north Indian Ocean, including the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean. About IMD: The IMD is one of the six Regional Specialised Meteorological…
Read MoreIndia attends the first virtual Petersburg Climate Dialogue.
28 April 2020 Introduction: India attended the first ever virtual dialogue at the eleventh session of Petersburg Climate Dialogue deliberating on issues of Climate Change. Highlights: India was represented by Shri Prakash Javdekar-the Union Minister for Environmnet,Forest and Climate Change. 30 other countries attended the dialogue. Hosted by Germany and co-hosted by UK. This eleventh…
Read MoreOzone Layer is healing- Montreal Protocol is working.
27 April 2020 Introduction: A rare hole in the ozone layer spreading over 1 million square kilometre in area, was discovered by scientists earlier this month. The hole was understood to be a result of low temperatures at the North Pole. Had the record-breaking hole managed to move south with the air currents, it would…
Read MoreCoronavirus lockdown: Air pollution in India lowest in 20 years, says NASA
22 April 2020 Introduction: At present Air pollution in India is at its lowest in two decades, says a study published by US space agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Highlights of the Study: Study was conducted by Pawan Gupta of Universities Space Research Association’s(USRA’s) along with NASA team at Marshall Space Flight Centre. The…
Read More50th Anniversary of Earth Day celebrated digitally
22 April 2020 Introduction: Every year April 22 is celebrated as Earth Day. This year April 22, 2020 celebrates 50th anniversary of the Earth Day. Due to the Covid -19 pandemic the events are being held digitally. On Wednesday, the 50th anniversary of Earth Day will be celebrated by different types of digital events—global conferences,…
Read MoreLarge number of leather back rare turtle nests spotted after two decades
20 April 2020 Introduction: Large number of nests of rare leatherback sea turtles were spotted in the now-empty beaches of Thailand amid the novel coronavirus pandemic. Highlights: Rare turtles have made a comeback after two decades. 11 turtles nested first time in twenty years. Leatherback is the largest sea turtles, endangered in Thailand. Listed as…
Read MoreNew species of green pit viper discovered in Arunachal Pradesh, named after fictional character of Harry Potter
16 April 2020 Introduction: A team of researchers has discovered a new species of the venomous green pit viper in Arunachal Pradesh. Two specimens of these spp have been found. The new species has been discovered in the thick ,evergreen forests of Pakke Tiger Reserve in Pakke –Kessang district in Arunachal Pradesh during a field…
Read MoreKey amendment to Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification 2006-To ramp up availability/production of bulk drugs within short span of time
15 April 2020 Introduction: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change on 27th March 2020, has made an amendment to EIA Notification 2006. All projects or activities in respect of bulk drugs manufactured for addressing various ailments, have been re-categorized from the existing Category ‘A’ to ‘B2’ category. Highlights: The states have also been issued advisories…
Read MoreFeluda- India’s first paper-strip test for Covid-19, CSIR lab makes a breakthrough
13 April 2020 Introduction: In a major breakthrough, a team of Indian scientists have successfully developed a low-cost, paper-strip test which can detect the new coronavirus within an hour and address India’s urgent need for rapid-testing. This is the first of its kind in the world. Salient Features of the test: The test uses the…
Read MoreKerala gets a go ahead to explore Plasma Therapy for COVID-19- ICMR
10 April 2020 IntroductionKerala has won Indian Council of Medical Research’s (ICMR) approval for the clinical protocol exploring the feasibility of an experimental therapy, convalescent plasma transfusion, which may be administered to severe COVID-19 patients. At present there are no specific antiviral agents which have been found to be effective in the treatment of COVID-19.…
Read MoreCOVID -19 brings the world to a standstill
8 April 2020 Introduction:The Covid-19 virus is humanity’s newest foe, with the potential to prematurely end millions of lives. Its fast and wide spreading nature has qualified it to be assigned the term of a pandemic. Facts: COVID-19 is a disease caused by the “novel corona virus”. Common symptoms are: Fever Dry cough Breathing difficulty…
Read MoreCOP 26 postponed due to the COVID- 19 pandemic
2 April 2020 Facts: The 2020 United Nations Climate Change Conference, also known as COP26, is the 26th United Nations Climate Change conference. It was scheduled to be held in Glasgow, Scotland from 9 to 20 November 2020 under the presidency of the UK government. The conference is set to incorporate the 26th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention…
Read MoreCOVID-19 flattens peak-hour pollution
31 March 2020 Introduction:As vehicles go off the road after the country-wide lockdown in the wake of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, the typical two humps of daily pollution coinciding with morning and evening traffic peak-hours have nearly flattened out in India’s big cities. Facts: A new analysis by Centre for Science and Environment…
Read MoreBaltic Sea: Seal pups face tough winter due to reduced ice levels
March 30 2020 Introduction:Hundreds of grey seal pups are dying on the shores of the Baltic Sea in Estonia and Latvia as the Nordic coastline faced the first winter without ice in decades. Facts: Grey seals need ice – which helps them keep a distance from predators like wolves or foxes – in order to…
Read MoreEarth Hour: A symbolic movement of ‘’Lights Off” to save environment
30 March 2020 Introduction: Millions of people around the world will turn off their lights on 28th March(which is the last Saturday of the month) for Earth Hour, an international event which encourages everyone to protect the planet. About Earth Hour: Earth Hour, organized by WWF, is a global grassroots movement uniting people to take action…
Read MoreSikkim Glaciers are being lost at faster rate than other parts of Himalayas
March 25 2020 Introduction: Scientists from Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG), Dehradun an autonomous research institute for the study of Geology of the Himalaya under the Department of Science and Technology, have found that glaciers in Sikkim are melting at a higher magnitude as compared to other Himalayan regions. Salient Features of the study:…
Read MoreGlobal Recycling Day 2020
22 March 2020 Introduction: Global Recycling Day is celebrated on 18th March every year. Global Recycling Day was created in 2018 to help recognize, and celebrate, the importance recycling plays in preserving our precious primary resources and securing the future of our planet. It is a Day for the world to come together, and put…
Read More4.4 billion people to live with limited water, warns United Nations
23 March 2020 Introduction: United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in his message on World Water Day, 22 March 2020, announced that by 2050, between 3.5 and 4.4 billion people will live with limited access to water, with more than 1 billion of them living in cities. Highlights: Around 2.2 billion people in the world lack…
Read MoreWorld Water Day: March 22
21 March 2020 Introduction: World Water Day is being celebrated on 22 March since 1993.The day is celebrated by United Nations along with many other organisations around the world. The main aim is to spread awareness about the importance of fresh water. Theme of World Water Day for year 2020:- Water and Climate Change- The…
Read MoreProtecting peatlands can help attain climate goals: A UN Report
22 March 2020 Introduction: According to a report from Food and Agricultural Organisation of UN(FAO), Peatlands, which play a crucial role in regulating global climate by acting as carbon sinks, are facing degradation and need to be urgently monitored. Highlights: Peatlands cover only three per cent of Earth’s surface. Peatlands contain 30 per cent of the world’s soil…
Read MoreWhat is Greenco Rating System followed in India?
19 March 2020 Introduction: The Union Ministry of Railways has informed about the applications of Greenco Ratings on Workshops and Production Units of Indian Railways. About GreenCo Ratings GreenCo Rating is the “first of its kind in the World” holistic framework that evaluates companies on the environmental friendliness of their activities using life cycle approach.…
Read MoreEuropean Project linking Black Sea, North Sea and Baltic Sea criticised by Environmental Organisation
17 March 2020 Introduction:Environmental organisations from across central and Eastern Europe have criticised a major project intending to link three rivers and provide seamless navigation between three of Europe’s peripheral seas. Proposed Project: The Danube-Oder-Elbe Canal intends to connect the Danube, Oder and Elbe rivers and thus provide another navigable link from the Black Sea…
Read MoreGround Water in India is contaminated above 30 micro-gram per litre with Uranium
16 March 2020 Highlights of the WHO Report: There is prevalence of Uranium concentration above 30 micro-gram per litre (World Health Organization (WHO) provisional guidelines) in some of the localized pockets of few States/UTs in India. As per the report brought out by Duke University, USA, in association with Central Ground Water Board and State…
Read MoreCAG Report: 40% Environment related crimes in India are from Rajasthan
7 March 2020 Introduction: A total of 40.59 per cent of the crimes related to environment in the country were committed in Rajasthan during 2014-16, according to a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) . The CAG report, for the year ended March 31, 2018, was tabled in the assembly on 6th March 2020. Highlight…
Read MoreBlack Carbon Levels in Himalayas Glaciers and Biomethation
5 March 2020 Facts: A study conducted by the scientists at the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG) confirms that black carbon concentrations have risen 400 times near Gangotri Glacier in summer.This is due to the forest fires and stubble burning from agricultural waste.This has also caused melting of the glaciers. Glaciers being a pristine…
Read MoreTribal affairs ministry constitutes committee on CFR guidelines under FRA
4 March 2020 Introduction: The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has constituted a committee to examine and recommend Community Forest Resources (CFR Guideline) under the Forest Rights Act, 2006 (FRA) Facts: Committee works under N C Saxena,former member of the Planning Commission of India. The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights)…
Read MoreGlobal Coalition for Biodiversity launched on World Wildlife Day 2020
3 March 2020 Introduction Global Coalition for Biodiversity was launched during the celebrations of the World Wildlife Day 2020 on 3rd March 2020. Salient Features of the Coalition: It has been launched by European Commission. European Commission encourages national, regional, and local authorities, non-governmental organisations, business, scientists and individual citizens to play their part in…
Read MoreFinancial Assistance to Kaziranga National Park under CAMPA
March 3 2020 Introduction: Financial assistance to the tune of Rs 1.51 crore has been sanctioned to Kaziranga National Park during the financial years 2018-19 and 2019-2020 under Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA). Highlights: Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Babul Supriyo stated that Rs 94,46,585 and Rs 51,24,670…
Read MoreCentre declares National Chambal Sanctuary in MP as eco-sensitive zone
2 March, 2020 The Centre on 2nd March 2020 declared the National Chambal Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh, as eco-sensitive zone. Highlights: Madhya Pradesh government has been directed to prepare a Zonal Master Plan. This plan shall provide for restoration of denuded areas, conservation of existing water bodies, management of catchment areas, watershed management, groundwater management,…
Read MoreIMD: Temperatures are to be above normal during MAM in India
2 March 2020 According to the India Meteorological Department summer months (MAM) from March to May are predicted to be hotter than normal this year. Highlights: Season’s averaged temparatures are likely to be half a degree hotter. These above normal heat wave conditions are likely in the core heat wave (HW) zone of India. The…
Read MoreRed pandas are actually two separate species- a study
March 1,2020 Scientists have found that Chinese red pandas and Himalayan red pandas are two different spp. The study is based on genetic study using three genetic markers. Study: Conservation biologists of Chinese Academy led the most comprehensive genetic research to study the endangered red panda. Their study has been published in the journal Science…
Read MoreDolphins Population Dwindles in Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary in Odisha
Feb 25,2020 Dolphin population is fast dwindling in the water bodies of Gahiramatha Marine Sanctuary and its nearby areas within Bhitarkanika National Park here. Pivotal Points: Odisha’s recent annual census of dolphins shows their population declining from 469 in 2018 to 259 this year. The census was carried out by the state’s forest and environment…
Read MoreOne Million Dollar Worth Prizes created by Sweden for sustainable Food Solutions
Feb 21,2020 A Swedish foundation has announced the launch of two awards of a million dollars each to reward sustainable food solutions. This is to revolutionise the food system to preserve the planet. Key Points: Sweden has created two new prizes named ‘Food Planet Prizes’, to be awarded for solutions to feed billions of people,…
Read MoreRe-introduction of Cheetah Project
Feb 21, 2020 70 years after the Cheetah became extinct a proposal has come up at the 13th Conference of Parties (CoP) to United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP) Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) in Gandhinagar on February 18, 2020 Some Facts: On January 28, the Supreme Court cleared the way…
Read MoreAnimal Culture linked to its Conservation at CMS COP 13 for the first time
Feb 20,2020 Animal culture, the learning of non-human species through socially transmitted behaviours, is being linked to conservation action for the first time at CMS COP13.There have been spearheading efforts to use the knowledge to better protect the endangered wildlife. Highlights: Two proposals one each for the Eastern Tropical Pacific Sperm Whale and the nut-cracking…
Read MoreAsian Elephant, Great Indian Bustard and Bengal Florican classified as “Endangered” Migratory Species at CMS COP 13
Feb 21,2020 India’s proposal to include great Indian bustard, Asian elephant and Bengal florican in Appendix I of UN Convention on Migratory Species was unanimously accepted on 20,Feb 2020 at the ongoing 13th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS COP 13) in Gandhinagar. Highlights Great Indian Bustard, Asian Elephant and Bengal Florican…
Read MoreIndian Bird Species have declined by 79% says State of India’s Bird Report at CMS COP-13
Feb 19,2020 The State of India’s Birds Report 2020 which was released on Feb 18,20220 has revealed that there has been an astounding decline of 79% of the Indian species of birds. This report was released during the 13th Conference of Parties to the Convention on Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS COP…
Read MoreDelhi Airport: The first Single use plastic free airport
Feb 19,2020 It is the need of the hour to curb consumption and production of plastic. Throughout the world countries, organisations and authorities are taking requisite steps to ensure this. In India Delhi’s IGI airport becomes the first single use plastic free airport. Highlights: GMR, the company which operates the Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) recently…
Read MoreMajor UN meeting on wildlife to address critical threats to migratory species due to infrastructural development
Feb 17,2020 The Thirteenth Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS COP13) opened in Gandhinagar, India today. CMS is the only United Nations treaty that addresses migratory species and their habitats. The concept of ‘ecological connectivity’ is the top CMS priority…
Read MoreCMS COP13: UN Summit to Discuss Insect Decline & Its Effects For the First Time
Feb 17,2020 Insect decline and its cascading effects on migratory species feeding on them will be on the agenda for the first time at a UN summit on migratory species beginning in Gujarat. Significance of CMS COP 13. The 13th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the .Convention on Migratory Species (CMS COP13)…
Read MoreIndia kicks off “Super Year of Biodiversity” with CMS COP -13
Feb 17,2020 Despite the climate and biodiversity crises continuing to escalate, environmentalists are calling 2020 a ‘super-year’ for nature because of several upcoming international policy meetings that have the potential to set nature on a path to recovery. Its primary goal being highlighting of 21 Sustaianble Development Goals(SDG) and their targets. India marks the ‘’Super Year of…
Read MoreIndia and Norway to work jointly towards mitigating marine plastic litter and microplastics; Issue Joint statement.
Feb 17 ,2020 Union Environment Minister Shri Prakash Javadekar met a delegation led by Norwegian Minister of Climate and Environment, H.E. Mr. Sveinung Rotevan on the side-lines of the 13th Conference of Parties of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS). Highlights: Meeting of India and Norway marks the beginning of the ‘2020…
Read MoreGovt of India radio tagged Pangolins first time to study their Ecology. World Pangolin Day- Feb 15.
Feb 15,2020 Introduction: India takes action: Madhya Pradesh forest department radio-tagged an Indian Pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) for the first time to know its ecology and develop an effective conservation plan for it. The team successfully rehabilitated two Indian Pangolins in the wild. This is the first-ever case of successful rehabilitation effort of the species where the released individuals…
Read MoreAntartica recorded the hottest temperature of 20.75 degree celsisus.
Feb 14,2020 According to the UN’s World Meteorological Organization (WMO), temperatures on the Antarctic Peninsula have risen by almost 3C over the past 50 years, and that about 87% of the glaciers along its west coast have “retreated” in that time. Over the past 12 years, the glaciers have shown an “accelerated retreat”. January 2020…
Read MoreIndian Govt released Draft Visionary Perspective Plan( 2020-2030) to Conserve Avian Ecosystem ahead of CMS COP 13.
Feb 12,2020 Amid growing threats to a number of bird species in the country, the Union Environment Ministry has come out with a 10-year comprehensive plan for conservation of birds and their habitats in India through multiple measures including curbing illegal trade of birds and constant surveillance of avian disease. Visionary Perspective Plan (2020-2030): Draft…
Read MoreIndia hosts 13th COP on Conservation of Migratory Species of wild animals .
Feb 10,2020 Introduction: The 13th Conference of Parties (COP) of the Convention on the conservation of migratory species of wild animals (CMS),is an environmental treaty under the aegis of the United Nations Environment Programme. It is going to be hosted by India from 17th to 22nd February 2020 at Gandhinagar in Gujarat. Theme: The theme…
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