In News:

A rare sighting of the Indian Giant Flying Squirrel (Petauristaphilippensis) has been reported in Ranikhet, a hill station in Uttarakhand, highlighting the ecological richness of the region.

About Indian Giant Flying Squirrel

Feature                                         Description

Scientific Name                      Petauristaphilippensis

Size                                                   Body length: 30–45 cm; Tail length: up to 60 cm

Appearance                               Rufous coat, grey underparts, large eyes, and a gliding membrane from wrist

                                                to ankle

Locomotion                                Glides up to 60 meters between trees using patagium (gliding membrane)

Habitat and Distribution

• Found in tropical and subtropical forests across central and southern India
• Inhabits evergreen, semi-evergreen, and deciduous forests, especially near forest edges
• Recent sighting in Uttarakhand indicates possible range expansion or overlooked presence

Ecological Role

• Diet: Fruits, nuts, leaves, and bark
• Acts as a seed disperser, supporting forest regeneration
• Considered a keystone species due to its ecological significance

Behavioural Traits

• Nocturnal and arboreal
• Emits alarm calls upon detecting predators like owls
• Active at night, gliding from tree to tree in search of food

Conservation Status

Category                                                   Status

IUCN Red List (Global)                     Least Concern

IUCN Status (India)                           Near Threatened (due to habitat loss)

Wildlife Protection Act, 1972       Schedule II

Threats

• Habitat loss and fragmentation
• Deforestation and degradation of forest corridors
• Increasing human encroachment in forested landscapes

In News:

A team of young researchers from Kerala has won the prestigious Future Conservationist Award by the Conservation Leadership Programme (CLP) for their community-driven project on conserving the Malabar Grey Hornbill in Wayanad.

About Malabar Grey Hornbill (Ocyceros griseus)

• Status: Vulnerable (IUCN Red List)
• Legal Protection: Schedule IV of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
• Endemic to: Western Ghatsand parts of the Nilgiris, Wayanad, and Anamalai Hills in Southern India.
• Habitat: Evergreen forests, plantations, and agricultural landscapes
• Ecological Importance: Cavity-nesting frugivore, plays a key role in seed dispersal
• Nesting Behavior:
  • Nests in secondary cavities (e.g., old woodpecker hollows)
  • Reuses the same nesting cavity for years
  • Dependent on cavity-bearing trees, often outside protected areas

About the Future Conservationist Award (CLP)

• Awarded By:
  • Fauna & Flora International
  • BirdLife International
  • Wildlife Conservation Society
• Purpose: Supports early-career conservationists with funding and mentorship
• Focus Areas: Field conservation, community engagement, biodiversity monitoring

In News:

In a significant conservation achievement under the Turtle Rehabilitation Project (TRP), 340 Indian Star Tortoises were successfully released into the wild at Jogapur Reserve Forest, located in Chandrapur district, Maharashtra.

Indian Star Tortoise (Geochelone elegans)

• IUCN Status:Vulnerable
• CITES Listing:Appendix I
• Protection under Indian Law:Schedule I, Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972

Habitat & Range:

• Native to Northwest India, Southern India, and Sri Lanka
• Prefers arid and semi-arid ecosystems including scrublands, dry forests, grasslands, and semi-deserts

Key Characteristics:

• Recognizable by the radiating star-like patterns on its domed shell
• Faces high poaching pressure due to demand in the illegal exotic pet trade
• Exhibits crepuscular behavior (most active during dawn and dusk)
• Primarily herbivorous, consuming grasses, flowers, and leafy vegetation

Turtle Rehabilitation Project (TRP): A Conservation Initiative

• Launched: Late 2024; witnessed a major release event in April 2025
• Implemented By: Maharashtra Forest Department in collaboration with RESQ Charitable Trust

Objectives:

• Rescue and rehabilitate illegally trafficked tortoises and turtles
• Facilitate safe reintroduction into natural habitats through:
  • Medical treatment
  • Acclimatization to wild conditions
  • Biometric tracking for post-release monitoring
• Raise public awareness via community engagement and school outreach

In News:

• The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has recently introduced a new ‘Blue Category’ for industries under its Essential Environmental Services (EES) framework.
• Notably, Waste-to-Energy (WTE) incineration plants, previously classified as highly polluting ‘Red Category’ industries, have now been controversially reclassified under this new category.

Background: Pollution Index (PI) and Industry Categorisation

• The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) classifies industries into categories — White, Green, Orange, and Red — based on a Pollution Index (PI) (0–100 scale).
  • White (0–20): Least polluting
  • Green (21–40)
  • Orange (41–59)
  • Red (60–100): Most polluting
• WTE plants, with a PI of 97.6, were originally in the Red Category.

What is the new Blue Category?

• Created under Essential Environmental Services (EES) classification.
• Grants 2 additional years of “Consent to Operate” (essentially, consent to pollute).
• Aims to support infrastructure like composting units, biogas plants, material recovery facilities, etc

Controversy: WTE Incineration in the Blue Category

• WTE plants burn unsegregated municipal solid waste (MSW) to generate electricity by producing steam to drive turbines.
• Unlike claimed benefits, WTE plants emit more CO? per unit of electricity than coal-fired plants, contributing to climate change.
• CPCB’s inspection reports found that Delhi’s WTE plants exceeded emission norms, releasing carcinogens and other pollutants such as:
  • SOx, NOx, HCL, PM, Dioxins, and Furans
• In FY 2022–23, Delhi’s WTE plants incinerated ~735,840 tons of plastic, contributing significantly to Delhi’s poor air quality.
• These plants also generate hazardous ash, requiring secure landfill disposal.

Issues with Reclassification

• The CPCB’s own guidelines state that:
  • Only projects that do not emit hazardous waste or
  • Projects that promote the circular economy can be blue-listed.
• However, leading government institute CSIR-NEERI has observed that WTE plants violate the principles of the circular economy and contravene Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016.
• Reclassification undermines environmental safeguards, harms waste pickers’ livelihoods, and imposes financial burdens on Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).

Context:

• The Arctic biome, primarily a treeless tundra, spans approximately 11.5 million km² and includes regions in Canada, Greenland, Iceland, and Eurasia.
• It is characterized by permafrost (permanently frozen ground) close to the surface, limiting plant root growth.
• Vegetation consists of grasses, lichens, mosses, and low shrubs, while fauna includes polar bears, arctic foxes, caribou, musk ox, and migratory birds like snow geese.
• Climatic conditions are harsh, with temperatures ranging from -60°C in winter to 15.5°C in summer, and annual precipitation between 150–250 mm, mostly as snow.
• Despite nutrient-poor soils, the biome has functioned as a major carbon sink by storing carbon in peat and humus.

The Arctic Boreal Zone (ABZ) and Carbon Dynamics

The Arctic Boreal Zone (ABZ), which includes tundra, coniferous forests, and wetlands, has historically played a crucial role in global carbon sequestration. Its coniferous forests form the largest land-based biome on Earth.

However, recent studies, including one in Nature Climate Change (2025), indicate that over 30% of the ABZ has shifted from being a carbon sink to a carbon source. This reversal is primarily driven by:

• Permafrost thawing: Warmer topsoil temperatures lead to decomposition of organic matter, releasing CO? and methane.
• Frequent and intense wildfires: These burn organic-rich soils, releasing large volumes of carbon.

This transition creates a positive feedback loop: Wildfires release carbon → global temperatures rise → permafrost thaws → more emissions → more fires.

Fire Trends and Global Impact

Data from the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS) reveal that wildfires released 800,000 tonnes of carbon in January 2025 alone, nearly 4 times more than in the same period a decade ago.

Key wildfire incidents include:

• Texas and Oklahoma (USA): Destroyed 14,000+ structures, burned 16,000 hectares, and displaced thousands.
• Ofunato City (Japan): One of the country’s largest fires in 50 years, affecting nearly 2,900 hectares.

According to the India State of Forest Report (Dec 2024):

• Uttarakhand recorded the highest number of forest fires (5,315 fires) between Nov 2022–June 2023.
• However, fire hotspots are declining: 2.23 lakh (2021–22) → 2.12 lakh (2022–23) → 2.03 lakh (2023–24).

India’s Changing Fire and Climate Profile

Research by IIT Kharagpur and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology shows that land temperatures in northwest, northeast, and central India are rising by:

• 0.1–0.3°C/decade (pre-monsoon)
• 0.2–0.4°C/decade (post-monsoon)

This trend has led to earlier, longer, and slower-moving heatwaves, increasing wildfire vulnerability. India emits an estimated 69 million tonnes of CO? annually from forest fires.

Key Findings from the 2024 Arctic Report Card (NOAA)

The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) confirms that the Arctic tundra is becoming a carbon source, exacerbated by fossil fuel pollution and recurrent wildfires. According to NOAA, this shift reflects persistent, long-term climate trends, not mere variability.

A global study of 200 monitoring sites (1990–2020) found:

• Alaska contributed 44% of the ABZ’s new carbon emissions.
• Northern Europe and Siberia added 25% and 13%, respectively.
• Non-summer months now emit more carbon than the entire summer absorption.

Historical fire events like the 2003 Siberian fires and the 2012 Timmins fire (Canada) significantly accelerated this trend.

In News:

On the occasion of World Environment Day 2025, the Tamil Nadu government officially declared the Greater Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi, Ramanathapuram district, aiming to protect a vital stopover site for migratory birds along the Central Asian Flyway.

Key Highlights

What is it?

A newly notified wildlife sanctuary dedicated to safeguarding migratory wetland birds, especially the greater flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus), in their natural resting and breeding habitat.

Location and Area:

• Located in Rameshwaram taluk, Ramanathapuram district, Tamil Nadu.
• Covers approximately 524.7 hectares of revenue and forest land.
• Lies within the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, a globally recognized marine ecosystem.

Ecological Significance

• Functions as a critical site along the Central Asian Flyway, one of the key migratory bird routes.
• As per the 2023–24 Wetland Bird Survey, the region hosts 10,700+ wetland birds representing 128 species, including:
  • Flamingos (greater and lesser)
  • Herons, egrets, sandpipers, etc.
• The sanctuary harbours diverse ecosystems, such as:
  • Mangroves (Avicennia, Rhizophora)
  • Mudflats, marshes, sand dunes, and lagoons
  • Nesting grounds for sea turtles and marine biodiversity

Conservation and Socioeconomic Benefits

• Strengthens coastal resilience by preventing erosion through natural mangrove buffers.
• Promotes responsible ecotourism, raising awareness of wetland and avian conservation.
• Supports local livelihoods via employment in conservation and tourism activities.

About the Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus)

Attribute                                Details

Size                                       90–150 cm tall, long necks and legs

Coloration                            Pink hue from carotenoid-rich diet

Feeding                                 Uses specialized downward-curved bill for filter feeding in shallow waters

Reproduction                        Builds cone-shaped mud nests, lays 1–2 eggs, both parents incubate

Chick Rearing                      Chicks are white and fed through regurgitation

Social Traits                          Highly gregarious, breeds in large colonies and flies in V-formations

Behavioral Note                   Often seen standing on one leg, possibly to conserve body heat

In News:

India's annual mean temperature rise up from 25.05°C in 2001 to 25.74°C in 2024, Electricity generation from renewable sources increased more than three times in 10 years.

• Released by: Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) on June 5, 2025, on the occasion of World Environment Day
• Framework Used: UN's Framework for the Development of Environment Statistics (FDES 2013)

Key Highlights:

Climate Trends

• Annual Mean Temperature rose from 25.05°C (2001) to 25.74°C (2024).
• 2024 recorded as India’s hottest year since 1901; also, globally the hottest year in 175 years.
• Annual Minimum and Maximum Temperatures (2021–24):
  • Minimum: 19.32°C → 20.24°C
  • Maximum: 30.78°C → 31.25°C

Rainfall Patterns

• Rainfall shows seasonal concentration between June–September, with signs of shifting patterns such as late onset or extended rains into October.
• No clear long-term trend, reflecting erratic monsoonal behaviour.

Energy Generation

Thermal & Renewable Power (2013–14 to 2023–24)

• Thermal: 7.92 lakh GWh → 13.26 lakh GWh
• Renewable: 65,520 GWh → 2.25 lakh GWh, over 3x increase in renewable energy output in a decade.

Biodiversity and Faunal Statistics

Faunal Diversity

• Global Faunal Species: 16,73,627
  • India's Share: 1,04,561 species
• Habitat-specific Species in India:
  • Soil Ecosystem: 22,404
  • Freshwater Ecosystem: 9,436
  • Mangrove System: 5,023
  • Estuarine Ecosystem: 3,383
  • Marine Fauna (India): 20,613 out of global 2,47,605

Fisheries Production

Inland vs. Marine Fish (2013–14 to 2023–24)

• Inland Fish Production: 61 lakh tonnes → 139 lakh tonnes
• Marine Fish Production: 34 lakh tonnes → 45 lakh tonnes

Public Expenditure (2021–22)

• Environment Sustainability Sector: ?2,433 crore (highest among sectors)
• Conservation of Natural Resources: Increasing trend
• Agro-Forestry: Lowest allocation

New Data indicators introduced

• Ramsar sites
• Access to sanitation
• Transport infrastructure
• Electricity access

In News:

Recently, the Union Ministry of Environment announced that Kichan (Phalodi) and Menar (Udaipur) wetlands in Rajasthan have been recognized as Ramsar Sites, bringing India’s total to 91 Ramsar-designated wetlands—the highest in Asia.

About Menar Wetland:

• A freshwater monsoon wetland complex in Udaipur district, Rajasthan.
• Formed by three primary ponds: Braham Talab, Dhand Talab, and Kheroda Talab; the latter two are connected by flooded agricultural land during the monsoon.
• Habitat for endangered and migratory birds such as:
  • Critically Endangered: White-rumped vulture (Gyps bengalensis), Long-billed vulture (Gyps indicus)
  • Other species: Himalayan griffon, Egyptian vulture, Dalmatian pelican, Ferruginous pochard, Black-tailed godwit
• Home to over 70 plant species, including mango trees (Mangifera indica) that host colonies of Indian flying foxes (Pteropus giganteus).
• Community-led conservation: Menar village residents prevent poaching and fishing, earning it the title "Bird Village".

About Kichan Wetland:

• Located in Phalodi, Jodhpur, in the northern Thar Desert of Rajasthan.
• Comprises:
  • Ratri Nadi (river)
  • Vijaysagar Talab (pond)
  • Riparian and scrub habitats
• Notable for supporting drought-resistant flora and over 150 bird species.
• Globally known for hosting over 22,000 migratory demoiselle cranes (Anthropoides virgo) each winter.
• A hub for birdwatchers, tourists, scientists, and students.

Ramsar Convention Overview:

• An intergovernmental treaty for the conservation of wetlands, signed in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran.
• Headquartered in Gland, Switzerland.
• Wetlands listed under the convention are known as Ramsar Sites—of international importance.
• Member countries (Contracting Parties) commit to identifying and protecting these wetlands.

In News:

Every year on June 5, people across the globe unite to celebrate World Environment Day, an initiative led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

Key Highlights:

• Observed on: June 5 annually
• Initiated by: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
• First celebrated: 1973 (following the 1972 Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment)
• Objective: Promote global awareness and action for environmental protection

Theme for 2025: "Beat Plastic Pollution"

• Focuses on the escalating crisis of plastic pollution and its adverse impact on ecosystems, wildlife, and human health.
• Highlights the need to transition away from single-use plastics, promote sustainable consumption, and adopt eco-friendly alternatives.

Key Statistics:

• Plastic production: Increased from 2 million tonnes (1950) to 430 million tonnes (2025)
• Marine pollution:19–23 million tonnes of plastic enter aquatic ecosystems annually
• Microplastics detected in oceans, mountains, and the human body

Host Country for 2025: Republic of Korea

• Chosen for its leadership in green innovation and sustainable practices.
• Initiatives include:
  • Advanced waste segregation and recycling systems
  • Bans on single-use plastics in major outlets
  • Promotion of tech-driven eco-solutions

By hosting, South Korea aims to showcase scalable models for combating plastic pollution globally.

Historical Background

• Stockholm Conference 1972 laid the foundation for modern environmental governance.
• UNEP assigns a theme and host country annually to align global action.
• Over 150 countries now participate through:
  • Clean-up drives
  • Tree plantation campaigns
  • Policy forums
  • Environmental education programs

Significance

World Environment Day plays a vital role in:

• Raising awareness on climate change, pollution, deforestation, and sustainability
• Encouraging individual and community-level action
• Facilitating policy dialogue and regulatory reform
• Mobilizing youth leadership in environmental movements

In News:

In a significant ornithological development, the Caspian Gull, one of the rarest gull species to be recorded in India, was positively identified five years after being sighted at Kappad Beach, Kozhikode, Kerala. This marks the first confirmed sighting of the species in Kerala, and only the second in southern India.

Discovery and Identification:

• Ornithologist Abdulla Paleri first spotted the bird in February 2020 but took five years to confirm its identity due to its close resemblance to the more commonly seen Steppe Gull.
• The Caspian Gull differs subtly in features such as head and beak shape, posture, wing pattern, and leg morphology.
• Images were shared with international experts and on the eBird platform, where ornithologists Oscar Campbell and Hans Larsson confirmed the identification. The sighting has remained unchallenged since.

About Caspian Gull (Laruscachinnans):

• A monotypic, large, white-headed gull species, considered rare in India.
• Regularly breeds in Central Asia, particularly in steppe and semi-desert habitats with lakes, rivers, and reservoirs.
• Nesting usually occurs on flat, low-lying areas near water bodies, often surrounded by reedbeds.
• The species feeds on fish, insects, molluscs, and other invertebrates.

Migration Pattern:

• It migrates from the Black Sea and Caspian Sea region to southern and eastern Kazakhstan, western China, and parts of South Asia during winter.
• Traditionally winters in the eastern Mediterranean, Persian Gulf, and western India (like Gujarat).
• Increasingly, small populations are dispersing into Europe, including Sweden, Norway, and Denmark.
• The Kozhikode gull is believed to be a straggler—a bird that deviates from its usual migratory route.

Conservation Status:

• IUCN Red List:Least Concern, Despite its rarity in India, the species is not globally threatened.

In News:

The Jharkhand government has proposed setting up its first-ever tiger safari in the fringe area of the Palamau Tiger Reserve (PTR), located in Latehar district. This initiative aims to promote wildlife education, conservation awareness, and eco-tourism, while also creating employment opportunities.

What is a Tiger Safari?

A tiger safari refers to a tourism model where rescued, conflict-prone, or orphaned tigers are housed in naturalistic enclosures, ensuring sightings for visitors. It differs from traditional wild safaris, where sightings are not guaranteed. The concept was first proposed in the NTCA's 2012 tourism guidelines, refined in 2016, and later aligned with the Supreme Court’s 2024 directive, which mandates that such safaris be located outside core and buffer zones of tiger reserves.

Legal and Regulatory Framework

• Governed by:
  • Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
  • National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) Guidelines (2012, 2016)
  • Central Zoo Authority (CZA) for animal welfare, enclosure design, and project compliance
• Supreme Court Ruling (March 2024):
  • Tiger safaris must not be located inside core or buffer zones.
  • Intended to protect natural habitats and uphold conservation goals.

About Palamau Tiger Reserve (PTR)

• Established: 1974 under Project Tiger
• Location: Chhotanagpur Plateau, Jharkhand
• Rivers: North Koel, Burha (perennial), Auranga
• Vegetation: Northern Tropical Dry Deciduous forest (Sal-dominated)
• Key Fauna: Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Elephant, Sloth Bear, Leopard, Indian Pangolin, Otter
• Historical Note: Site of the world’s first pugmark-based tiger census (1932)

Project Details

• Location: Barwadih Western Forest Range (fringe of PTR, outside core/buffer zones)
• Size: Approx. 150 hectares
• Animals Housed: Only rescued, conflict-prone, or orphaned tigers from reserves/zoos (not wild or zoo-bred tigers unless approved)
• Objectives:
  • Promote tourism and conservation education
  • Create an experiential learning space for visitors
  • Generate employment (~200 local jobs)

The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) will assess the site and species selection. Post Forest Department clearance, the Detailed Project Report (DPR) will be submitted to NTCA and CZA. Approvals may take 5–6 months, followed by a construction period of ~18 months.

Concerns and Challenges

• Tribal and Community Rights:Activists caution that such projects may marginalize forest-dwelling communities and restrict access to traditional forest-based livelihoods (grazing, NTFP collection).
• Consent of Local Communities:As per the Forest Rights Act, projects on forest land must involve Gram Sabha consultation. Activists argue this has yet to be fully addressed.
• State's Clarification:Officials maintain that the site lies on forest land under state management, with no expected displacement.

In News:

In a remarkable ornithological event, the Sabine’s Gull — a rare Arctic seabird — has been observed at Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary in Gujarat. This marks the species’ first recorded appearance in India since 2013, when it was last sighted in Kerala, underlining the dynamic migratory patterns affecting India’s wetland ecosystems.

About Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary

• Located nearly 64 km west of Ahmedabad, Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is one of Gujarat’s most prominent wetland ecosystems. Encompassing an area of 120.82 sq km, it comprises a shallow, seasonal lake interspersed with around 360 islets, creating a rich mosaic of aquatic habitats.
• This natural lake traces its origin to the 15th century, following the construction of a check dam on the Sabarmati River. Initially designed to serve irrigation and drinking water needs of nearby villages, the lake gradually evolved into a crucial habitat for avifauna. Recognition of its ecological significance grew over time, prompting colonial authorities in the early 20th century to take protective measures.
• Eventually, in 1969, the Government of Gujarat declared Nalsarovar a bird sanctuary, and it was further accorded the status of a Ramsar wetland site in 2012, signifying its global importance under the Ramsar Convention.
• Flora: The sanctuary supports a wide variety of aquatic and wetland plant life, with 48 algae species and 72 flowering plant species recorded. Common plant species include Cyperus, Scirpus, Typha ungustata, Eleocharis palustris, Ruppia, Potamogeton, Vallisneria, Naias, and Chara.
• Fauna:Nalsarovar is home to nearly 250 bird species, making it a haven for bird watchers. Regular sightings include both greater and lesser flamingos, pelicans, ducks, geese, coots, rails, cranes, and a variety of wading and aquatic birds like herons, egrets, storks, spoonbills, and sarus cranes.
  • Beyond birds, the sanctuary also supports mammalian fauna. On its southern and southwestern peripheries, species such as the Indian wild ass, mongoose, jungle cat, Indian fox, jackal, wolf, and striped hyena are found.

Sabine’s Gull: Profile

• The Sabine’s Gull (Xemasabini), also known as the fork-tailed gull or xeme, is a small gull species notable for its elegant flight and distinctive wing markings. Adults can be recognized by their pale grey backs, black wingtips, white secondary feathers, and forked white tails.
• This gull breeds in high Arctic and subarctic zones across North America, Russia, Greenland, and Svalbard, and is a rare migrant in South Asia.
• According to the IUCN Red List, it is currently categorized as a species of Least Concern, although sightings in India are extremely uncommon.

In News:

In a recent development, the Telangana government has designated the tiger corridor connecting the Kawal Tiger Reserve (Telangana) with the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra) as the KumramBheem Conservation Reserve, under Section 36(A) of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. This move is aimed at preserving critical wildlife corridors in the Central Indian Landscape.

Kawal Tiger Reserve:

• Location: Situated in Telangana, along the Godavari River, forming part of the Deccan Peninsula – Central Highlands.
• Biogeographic Zone: Lies at the southern tip of the Central Indian Tiger Landscape.
• Connectivity: Links with Tadoba-Andhari (Maharashtra), Indravati (Chhattisgarh), and other reserves like Tipeshwar, Chaprala, and Kanhargaon.
• Vegetation Type: Southern Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests.
• Flora: Dominated by teak, bamboo, and species like Anogeissuslatifolia, Terminalia arjuna, Boswellia serrata, etc.
• Fauna: Hosts tiger, leopard, nilgai, chinkara, sambar, blackbuck, wild dog, wolf, and jungle cat.

KumramBheem Conservation Reserve: Newly Notified Area

• Legal Basis: Declared under Section 36(A), Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, which allows states to notify government-owned land adjacent to or connecting protected areas as conservation reserves.
• Total Area: 1,492.88 sq km (149,288.48 hectares)
• District &Mandals Covered: Spread across KumramBheemAsifabad district, covering parts of Kerameri, Wankidi, Asifabad, Sirpur, Koutala, Bejjur, Kagaznagar, Rebbana, Dahegaon, and Tiryanimandals.
• Forest Blocks Included: 78 blocks including Garlapet, Ada, Manikgarh East & West, Danora, Gudem, Bejjur, Kadamba, and Girali.

Ecological Significance

• Tiger Movement: Over the last decade, more than 45 unique tigers (mostly transient) have been documented in this corridor through camera trapping and surveys.
• Breeding Evidence: Since 2015, 17 tiger cubs born from 3 tigresses have been recorded. The 2022 Tiger Census confirmed 4 adult tigers and 3 cubs in the area.
• Leopard Presence: 8 leopards were recorded during the All India Leopard Estimation, 2022.
• Other Carnivores: Includes sloth bear, hyena, wild dog, wolf, honey badger, and jungle cat.
• Herbivore Diversity: Rich prey base such as gaur, sambar, nilgai, chital, muntjac, four-horned antelope, and Indian gazelle.
• Avifauna: Home to 240+ bird species, including rare species like the Malabar Pied Hornbill and Long-billed Vulture, the latter using the reserve as a nesting site.
• Elephant Movement: Occasional elephant presence has also been reported.

Governance

A Conservation Reserve Management Committee has been established. Members include:

• District Forest Officer (DFO) of KumramBheemAsifabad (Convenor)
• Sarpanches of local panchayats (e.g., Karji, Motlaguda, Murliguda)
• Representatives from NGOs like Hyderabad Tiger Conservation Society, WWF-India, and Wildlife Conservation Trust
• Officials from Veterinary, Agriculture, and Forest Divisions

In News:

• The Perito Moreno Glacier, often referred to as the ‘White Giant’, is Argentina’s most iconic glacier, located in the Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Situated in the Andes Mountains, near El Calafate in Santa Cruz province, this glacier spans approximately 250 sq km—about the size of Patna, Bihar—and stretches 30 km in length, with ice walls rising 60 meters above water.
• Formed during the last Ice Age (~18,000 years ago), Perito Moreno has historically remained unusually stable, defying the global trend of rapid glacier retreat. However, this stability changed around 2020, raising alarms among scientists.

Recent Developments and Ice Calving Events

• Perito Moreno is globally renowned for its ice calving events, where massive blocks of ice break off into the lake with thunderous crashes. These events, though natural due to the glacier’s forward motion, have recently become more intense.
• On April 21, 2025, a colossal ice chunk the size of a 20-story building plunged 70 meters into the water—an increasingly frequent occurrence in the past 4–6 years.
• According to local experts and a 2024 government-backed report, the glacier has been retreating steadily since 2015, with an average mass loss of 0.85 meters annually—the fastest in nearly five decades.
• Between 2020 and 2023, the glacier lost over 700 meters of mass, equivalent to around seven large ice blocks.

Causes: Global Warming & Climate Impact

• The primary cause behind this dramatic retreat is climate change. Scientists from IANIGLA (Argentine Institute of Glaciology and Environmental Sciences) and CONICET state that the region has experienced an air temperature rise of 0.06°C per decade and reduced precipitation, leading to less snow accumulation and thinning of the glacier.

Global Perspective on Glacier Retreat

Perito Moreno is now part of a larger, alarming global trend.

• A 2024 study in Nature estimates that glaciers worldwide are losing 273 billion tonnes of ice annually, contributing to a 2 cm rise in global sea levels this century alone.
• A UNESCO report (March 2025) highlighted that glaciers (excluding Greenland and Antarctica) have shed over 9,000 billion tonnes of ice since 1975—comparable to an ice block the size of Germany with 25 meters thickness.

Environmental Significance

• Freshwater Source: Perito Moreno is a major reservoir of freshwater in Argentina.
• Tourism: The glacier attracts global tourists, boosting the local economy.
• Climate Indicator: Its recent retreat reflects the delayed but accelerating impact of global warming, making it a critical environmental bellwether.

In News:

A new species of land snail, Theobaldius konkanensis, has been discovered by a collaborative team of Indian and UK researchers from the Konkan region of Maharashtra. This species adds to the growing biodiversity records of the northern Western Ghats, a globally recognized but under-explored biodiversity hotspot.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Scientific Name: Theobaldius konkanensis
• Discovered in: Ratnagiri and Raigad districts, Maharashtra (Dev Gireshwar Temple, Uttamrao Patil Biodiversity Garden, Kesharnath Vishnu Temple, and Phansad Sanctuary)
• Elevation: 80–240 metres above sea level
• Habitat: Tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forests
• Active Months: June to September (monsoon); only shells visible in other months
• Habits: Active both day and night, often under forest canopy in shaded, moist leaf litter

Morphological Features

• Shell Characteristics:
  • Slightly flattened with a raised centre and deep triangular notch near the aperture
  • Operculum (protective cover) has raised whorl edges and short spines
  • Corneous yellow with brown striations
  • Thick, conoidally depressed, and widely umbilicated
• Body: Stout and rounded

Taxonomic Context

• Family: Cyclophoridae (Caenogastropoda)
• Genus: Theobaldius
  • Now includes 20 species: 9 in India, 11 in Sri Lanka, and 1 in Sumatra (Indonesia)
  • In India, 6 species are endemic to the Western Ghats
  • Only T. annulatus is found in both Sri Lanka and the Western Ghats

Ecological and Conservation Significance

• Bioindicators: Land snails are sensitive to climatic changes and environmental disturbances
• Endemism: T. konkanensis is restricted to specific forest patches in the Konkan, highlighting the ecological uniqueness of the region
• Threats: Increasing anthropogenic pressures and habitat degradation threaten snail species with restricted distribution

Reproductive Biology (General Traits of Land Snails)

• Breeding mainly in monsoon
• Reproduce through both cross- and self-fertilisation
• Courtship includes dart-shooting behavior; mating may last hours
• Eggs laid in moist soil or leaf litter; hatch in 2–4 weeks
• Lifespan: 2 to 7 years

In News:

The Wildlife Wing of the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department (HPFD) has recently documented the first-ever photographic evidence of the Woolly Flying Squirrel in Miyar Valley, located in the Lahaul and Spiti district. This marks a significant discovery, as the species is extremely elusive and rarely sighted.

About Woolly Flying Squirrel

• Common Name: Woolly Flying Squirrel / Western Woolly Flying Squirrel
• Scientific Name: Eupetaurus cinereus
• Taxonomy: The only known species under the genus Eupetaurus
• Conservation Status: Listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List

Habitat and Distribution

• Endemism: Confined to the northwestern Himalayas
• Countries Found: Northern Pakistan and northwestern India
• Habitat Type: Inhabits a narrow elevational range within dry coniferous forests, typically in fragmented habitats
• Historical Records:
  • Rediscovered in 1994, nearly 70 years after it was presumed extinct
  • Since then, reported from Sai Valley, Gorabad, and Balti Gali in northern Pakistan

Key Characteristics

• Equipped with patagium (elastic skin membrane) that connects the forelimbs and hind limbs, enabling gliding—typical of flying squirrels
• Fur: Dense, straight, and silky
  • Dorsal side: Blue-gray
  • Ventral side: Pale gray
  • Throat and ears: Covered in creamy white hairs
  • Feet soles: Dense black fur, except for bare pinkish-brown toe pads

In News:

The rare lizard species Calotes zolaiking has been recorded for the first time in Meghalaya, marking a significant extension of its known habitat and triggering grassroots conservation efforts.

About Calotes zolaiking

• Scientific Classification: Belongs to the Calotes genus under the Agamidae family.
• First Described: In 2019 from Aizawl district, Mizoram.
• Appearance: About 5 inches in length; green body with dark patches and strongly keeled scales (scales with a raised ridge).
• Behaviour: Arboreal (tree-dwelling), diurnal, fast runners, and capable swimmers.
• Diet: Insectivorous—feeds on insects and small invertebrates.

Distribution and Habitat

• New Sighting: Mawmluh village, East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, April 2024.
• Range Extension: Approx. 172 km aerially from the original Mizoram locality.
• Genus Distribution: Found across India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and parts of Oceania.
• India's Richness: 14 known Calotes species in India; 9 recorded in the Northeast region.

Conservation Significance

• Community Role: Local residents Goldenstar Thongni and Banyllashisha Wankhar played a key role in identifying and collecting specimens.
• Catalyst for Conservation: The species' discovery has motivated the local community in Mawmluh and Sohra (Cherrapunji) to strengthen forest protection amidst threats from limestone mining and industrial activities.
• Sacred Groves: Traditional conservation spaces like sacred groves are being revitalized in light of the new biodiversity significance.
• Scientific Impact: The find was featured in Zootaxa, a peer-reviewed taxonomy journal, adding global recognition.

Broader Ecological Relevance

• Biodiversity Surveys: The discovery underscores the need for continuous herpetofaunal surveys in the Khasi Hills due to forest degradation.
• Historical Context: Cited alongside Stoliczkia khasiensis, a snake species last seen in 1870, highlighting the risk of species being lost without systematic documentation.

In News:

Researchers from the Botanical Survey of India (BSI), under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), have discovered a new plant species — Pedicularis rajeshiana — in the high-altitude regions of Rohtang Pass, Himachal Pradesh.

Key Facts:

Taxonomy and Classification

• Scientific Name: Pedicularis rajeshiana
• Family: Orobanchaceae
• Common Group: Louseworts (Hemiparasitic plants – partially dependent on host plants for nutrients, but also photosynthetic)
• Named by: Botanist Dr. Arti Garg, formerly of BSI Prayagraj, now with BSI Dehradun
• Publication: Officially recorded in the international journal Phytotaxa (Mongolia)

Habitat and Discovery

• Location: Rohtang Pass, Pir Panjal range, Western Himalayas
• Altitude: ~4,390 metres (14,400 feet)
• Habitat: Shaded rocky slopes in scattered patches
• Discovery Project: "Flora of India" initiative by MoEF&CC and BSI

Unique Botanical Characteristics

• Size: Smaller than related species like P. porrecta and P. heydei
• Floral Features:
  • Deeply cut lower labium (lip)
  • Stamens positioned at three distinct levels inside the flower
  • Rare pollen morphology with croton-like surface texture
  • Two flowers observed with twin galea (hood-like structures) — a first in the genus, possibly an evolutionary trait to enhance pollination

Ecological Significance

• Endemicity: Many Pedicularis species are habitat-specific and endemic to certain Himalayan regions
• India's Diversity: Home to 83 known species of Pedicularis, with 36 in the western Himalayas
• Conservation Value: The specificity of habitat and rarity suggest potential threat status; conservation is crucial.

In News:

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has released its latest decadal climate forecast (2025–2029), warning of a continued trend of record-breaking global temperatures. This projection raises serious concerns about climate risks, sustainable development, and international climate commitments under the Paris Agreement.

Key Projections:

• Annual Global Temperature Rise: Each year from 2025–2029 is projected to be 1.2°C to 1.9°C above pre-industrial levels (1850–1900).
• Record Heat Likelihood:
  • 80% chance that at least one year will surpass 2024, currently the warmest year on record.
  • 86% probability that one year will exceed the 1.5°C threshold.
• Five-Year Mean Warming: 70% chance that the 2025–2029 average will be above 1.5°C, a sharp rise from 47% (2024–2028) and 32% (2023–2027).

Note: The Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C limit refers to long-term (20-year) averages, but short-term overshoots are now increasingly probable.

Regional and Thematic Insights:

1. Arctic Amplification: Arctic winters (Nov–Mar) are projected to be 2.4°C warmer than the 1991–2020 average—3.5× faster than the global rate.

2. Sea Ice Decline: Continued sea ice reduction is expected in the Barents Sea, Bering Sea, and Sea of Okhotsk, impacting marine biodiversity and indigenous livelihoods.

3. Precipitation Variability:

• Wetter-than-average conditions likely in:
  • Sahel region
  • Northern Europe
  • Alaska and Northern Siberia
• Drier conditions expected over:
  • Amazon Basin
  • Parts of South Asia

South Asia may witness generally wet years, though seasonal variability will persist.

Impact and Implications:

• Extreme Weather Events: Increased warming will fuel more intense heatwaves, extreme rainfall, droughts, and floods, stressing both urban systems and agriculture.
• Cryosphere and Ocean Changes:
  • Accelerated glacier and sea ice melt will raise sea levels.
  • Ocean heating contributes to acidification and marine biodiversity loss.
• Threat to Sustainable Development: Progress on SDGs, particularly food security, water availability, and health, is at risk in vulnerable regions.

Way Forward:

• Revise NDCs at COP30: Strengthen and align Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) with the 1.5°C goal.
• Accelerate Clean Energy Transition: Promote renewables, energy efficiency, and net-zero strategies to reduce GHG emissions.
• Adaptation and Resilience: Invest in climate-resilient infrastructure and early warning systems.
• Climate Monitoring & Forecasting: Enhance WMO-led regional forecasts and risk assessment tools.
• Preserve Natural Carbon Sinks: Protect forests, wetlands, and oceans to mitigate atmospheric CO?.

In News:

Rare giant shrimp is more widespread than previously believed; new findings reveal.

About the Species:

• Alicella gigantea is a giant deep-sea amphipod crustacean, growing up to 34 cm in length, making it one of the largest known amphipods.
• Amphipods are shrimp-like organisms; over 10,000 species are known globally, inhabiting a wide range of aquatic environments.

Habitat and Depth Range:

• Inhabits the abyssal (3,000–6,000 m) and hadal zones (>6,000 m) of the ocean.
• Notable sightings include:
  • A 28 cm specimen observed at 5,304 m in the North Pacific.
  • Captures from 6,746 m depth in the Murray Fracture Zone (North Pacific).

Global Distribution:

• Contrary to earlier beliefs, A. gigantea is not rare but is among the most widely distributed deep-sea species.
• Recent analysis compiled 195 records from 75 locations across the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans, covering 15 different seafloor features.
• Found in 59% of the world’s oceans.
• The Pacific Ocean is its most significant habitat, with 75% of the seafloor in its suitable depth range.

Genetic Insights:

• Genetic analyses (16S, COI, 28S genes) show low genetic divergence across populations.
• This suggests A. gigantea represents a single, globally distributed species with strong genetic conservation.
• A shared haplotype network across regions indicates minimal genetic differentiation, supporting global connectivity among populations.

Conservation and Research Significance:

• Despite its wide range, A. gigantea remains poorly understood, particularly in terms of population size, ecology, and evolutionary history.
• Only seven studies have sequenced its DNA to date.
• The findings are a significant step toward understanding deep-sea biodiversity, biogeography, and conservation priorities in abyssal ecosystems.

In News:

Union Environment Minister Shri Bhupender Yadav represented India at the 1st Sagarmatha Sambaad in Kathmandu, Nepal, a high-level biennial global dialogue convened under the theme “Climate Change, Mountains, and the Future of Humanity.”

The forum, held during the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation 2025, focused on mountain ecosystems, climate resilience, and transboundary conservation.

India’s Key Proposals and Commitments

Reaffirmed India’s climate leadership and proposed a five-point call for global action to protect mountain ecosystems:

• Enhanced Scientific Cooperation: Promote joint research on cryospheric changes, biodiversity, and hydrological cycles.
• Building Climate Resilience: Develop early warning systems for Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) and invest in climate-resilient infrastructure in mountainous areas.
• Empowering Mountain Communities: Center policies on local welfare, integrate traditional ecological knowledge, and promote green livelihoods such as eco-tourism.
• Providing Green Finance: Ensure adequate and predictable climate finance for adaptation and mitigation in mountain nations, in line with the Paris Agreement.
• Recognizing Mountain Perspectives: Integrate mountain-specific issues into global climate negotiations and sustainable development agendas.

India’s Initiatives and Regional Cooperation

India highlighted the ecological value of the Himalayas and called for enhanced transboundary conservation among Himalayan nations under the International Big Cats Alliance. This alliance promotes joint protection of species like snow leopards, tigers, and leopards.

• Under Project Snow Leopard, India conducted its first comprehensive snow leopard assessment (2019–2023), recording 718 snow leopards, comprising 10–15% of the global population.

Significance of the Himalayan Ecosystem

• Hydrological Role: The Himalayas are the "Water Towers of Asia", feeding rivers like the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus, and supplying around 1.2 trillion cubic meters of freshwater annually.
• Ecological Richness: A biodiversity hotspot, home to over 10,000 vascular plant species, 979 bird species, and 300 mammals such as the red panda and Himalayan tahr.
• Cultural Importance: Sacred in Hinduism and Buddhism, the Himalayas house pilgrimage sites like Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Mount Kailash.
• Economic Value: Support tourism, agriculture, forestry, and renewable energy. States like Uttarakhand, Assam, and West Bengal derive over 10% of state GDP from tourism.
  The Lohit Basin project in Arunachal Pradesh (13,000 MW) exemplifies hydropower potential.
• Climate Regulation: The range blocks cold Central Asian winds and influences monsoon patterns, ensuring rainfall for agriculture. Himalayan forests are major carbon sinks, mitigating global warming.

Key Challenges in the Himalayan Region

• Climate Disasters: Rising temperatures and glacier melt cause avalanches, landslides, and cloudbursts. E.g., 2025 Uttarakhand avalanche; 2023 Sikkim GLOF.
• Unsustainable Development: Slope cutting, deforestation, and seismic vulnerability threaten settlements (e.g., Joshimath subsidence linked to infrastructure projects).
• Glacier Retreat:
  • Gangotri glacier has retreated over 850 meters in 25 years.
  • Hindu Kush glaciers may lose 75% of volume by 2100.
• Biodiversity Loss: Invasive species and habitat loss displace native flora and fauna; 90% of endemic species in Sikkim Himalayas displaced.
• Unregulated Tourism: Littering and plastic waste—92.7% of Himalayan waste is plastic, 72% non-recyclable (2022 audit).

Recommendations for Sustainable Development

• Eco-sensitive Infrastructure: Mandatory Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), bioengineering, and electric mobility in high-altitude towns.
• Regulated Tourism: Introduce carrying capacity limits, permit-based entry, and promote low-impact tourism models.
• Glacier Monitoring & Water Management: Use remote sensing and GIS for glacier health; adopt ice stupas, rainwater harvesting, and efficient irrigation.
• Afforestation & Forest Conservation: Launch community-driven forestry projects (e.g., Van Andolan in Uttarakhand) to restore degraded ecosystems.
• Climate Adaptation Strategies: Expand early warning systems for GLOFs; promote climate-resilient crops and agricultural practices.
• Sustainable Livelihoods: Encourage organic farming, herbal industries, and eco-handicrafts to diversify mountain economies.

In News:

On World Turtle Day (May 23, 2025), Assam’s Nagshankar Temple was officially declared a model temple for turtle conservation, highlighting the ecological role of temple ponds in preserving India’s turtle biodiversity.

Key Highlights

Nagshankar Temple – A Model for Turtle Conservation

• Location: Sootea town, Biswanath district, ~70 km from Tezpur, Assam.
• Established: Believed to be built in the 4th century AD by King Nagashankar of the Nagakha dynasty.
• Religious Importance: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, but turtles are revered as incarnations of Lord Vishnu.
• Ecological Value: Functions as a micro-wildlife sanctuary — home to 250–300 turtles, along with peacocks, pythons, and deer.

Turtle Conservation Initiatives

Species Conserved:

• Black Softshell Turtle (Nilssonia nigricans) – Critically Endangered
• Indian Softshell Turtle (Nilssonia gangetica)
• Malayan Softshell Turtle

These species thrive in the temple pond, which is fed by the Brahmaputra River basin, offering a suitable natural habitat.

Community & Scientific Collaboration:

• Key Stakeholders:
  • Nagshankar Temple Committee
  • Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA) India
  • Help Earth (NGO)
  • Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve
  • Assam Forest Department
• Conservation Methods:
  • Artificial egg incubation and wild release of hatchlings.
  • Dried-fish diet introduced for temple turtles, replacing harmful offerings (e.g., biscuits, puffed rice).
  • Capacity-building workshops for forest staff and students to aid in turtle surveys.

Result: 486 hatchlings of the black softshell turtle have been released into the wild from the Nagshankar Temple pond.

Statewide Turtle Conservation Model

• Assam houses ~25 temple ponds actively involved in turtle conservation.
• Notable site: Hayagriva Madhav Temple in Hajo (Kamrup district).
• State Zoo in Guwahati has a dedicated breeding facility (established 2010) for the Assam Roofed Turtle (Pangshura sylhetensis, "Asomi Dura").

In News:

A newly discovered species of cave-dwelling loach, Schistura densiclava, has been recorded from the Krem Mawjymbuin cave in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, India. This species becomes the sixth known cave-dwelling fish from the state, emphasizing Meghalaya’s rich subterranean biodiversity.

Taxonomy and Classification

• Family: Nemacheilidae (bottom-dwelling freshwater fishes)
• Type: Troglophile — adapted to live in caves but can survive and reproduce in surface (epigean) waters.
• Distinct Feature: Unlike typical cave fishes, S. densiclava retains pigmentation and functional eyes, indicating adaptability to both subterranean and overground aquatic environments.

Habitat and Environment

• Found 60 meters inside the Krem Mawjymbuin, a limestone cave with a surveyed length of 1.6 km and an altitude of 206 meters.
• The species inhabits a cool, fast-flowing stream with a temperature of 18°C and low oxygen levels.
• The cave is ecologically sensitive and was previously in the news due to a local ban on worship at a Shivalinga-like formation within it.

Morphological Characteristics

• Coloration: Pale yellow-green body with 14–20 greyish to faint black vertical bars.
• Named densiclava due to the thick dark stripe near the dorsal fin ("densiclava" = Latin for "thick stripe").
• Sexual Dimorphism:
  • Males: Slimmer with irregular patterns and puffier cheeks.
  • Females: Sturdier with more consistent markings.

Scientific Significance

• Genetic testing confirmed Schistura densiclava as a distinct and previously unrecorded species.
• Its endemic distribution, limited to a single cave system, marks it as a species of high conservation concern.
• The discovery was published in the Journal of Fish Biology by a team led by Kangkan Sarma from Gauhati University, along with other Indian ichthyologists.

In News:

With the national capital grappling with chronic air pollution every winter, the Delhi Government is exploring artificial rain (cloud seeding) as a potential mitigation strategy. In a recent high-level meeting chaired by Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa, experts and representatives from key institutions brainstormed the feasibility and logistics of implementing cloud seeding in Delhi's airspace.

What is Artificial Rain (Cloud Seeding)?

• Cloud seeding is a form of weather modification aimed at inducing rainfall.
• It involves spraying chemical agents such as silver iodide or salt particles into clouds to stimulate condensation and precipitation.
• Requires favourable meteorological conditions, especially adequate moisture and cloud density.
• Usually conducted using aircraft or ground-based dispersal systems.

Significance for Delhi:

• Rainfall helps settle airborne particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), thereby reducing pollution levels.
• Delhi’s air quality worsens in winter due to a combination of low wind speeds, crop residue burning, vehicular and industrial emissions, and construction dust.
• Artificial rain could serve as an emergency intervention to improve air quality during severe pollution episodes.

Key Highlights of the Meeting:

• Convened by Delhi Environment Department with participation from:
  • CPCB, DPCC
  • Ministry of Defence, MoEFCC
  • IIT-Kanpur, India Meteorological Department (IMD)
  • Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), AAI
• IIT-Kanpur scientists shared results from previous successful cloud seeding trials in Kanpur (2023), demonstrating its potential under ideal conditions.
• Past trials in 2018 also showed partial success, with rainfall occurring in 5 out of 6 attempts during pre-monsoon months.

Challenges Identified:

• Weather-dependence: Effectiveness relies heavily on cloud presence and moisture levels, which are limited in Delhi during winters.
• Airspace clearance and coordination among multiple agencies (civil aviation, defence).
• High costs and uncertain outcomes make it a supplementary, not primary, solution.

Complementary Measures Underway:

• Delhi’s 14-point action plan to curb dust pollution includes:
  • Anti-smog guns, covering construction sites, cleaning of construction vehicles, andregulated debris disposal.
• Exploring static ionisation systems as an alternative to cloud seeding for artificial precipitation.

In News:

A new species of damselfly, Euphaeawayanadensis, has been discovered in the Wayanad region of Kerala, marking a significant addition to India’s odonate diversity.

Key Details:

• Taxonomy:
  • Belongs to the family Euphaeidae.
  • Officially recognized as Kerala’s 191stodonate species (including damselflies and dragonflies).
  • 223rd species recorded from the Western Ghats.
• Discovery and Research:
  • First observed in 2013 at Kalindi River, Thirunelli, Wayanad.
  • Confirmed after field studies conducted until 2023 across Wayanad, Aralam (Kannur), and western Coorg slopes (Karnataka).
  • Discovery published in the peer-reviewed journal ENTOMON.
• Research Contributors:Collaborative effort involving scientists from Kerala Agricultural University, Alphonsa College, and conservation groups like Warblers and Waders, Travancore Nature History Society.
• Identification Process:
  • Initially mistaken for Euphaeapseudodispar (from Maharashtra).
  • Declared a distinct species based on morphological traits and genetic analysis.

Distinct Morphological Features

• Hind wing: Longer black patch compared to similar species.
• Stripes: Broader, uninterrupted humeral and antehumeral stripes in males.
• Male genital vesicle: Structurally unique from related species.

Habitat & Distribution

• Inhabits fast-flowing rocky streams with aquatic vegetation.
• Found in evergreen and semi-evergreen forests along stream banks.
• Active throughout the year except March–April (dry season).
• Shows restricted distribution, making it ecologically vulnerable.

Conservation Importance

• The discovery underlines the biodiversity richness of the Western Ghats.
• Highlights the need for targeted conservation of aquatic invertebrates in fragile ecosystems like Wayanad.
• Emphasised by experts from the IUCN Dragonfly Specialist Group.

In News:

Infectious animal diseases are spreading to previously unaffected regions and species, with nearly half (47 per cent) capable of zoonotic transmission or spreading between animals, according to the inaugural State of the World’s Animal Health report released by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).

Key Details:

Published by:

• World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), formerly OIE (Office International des Epizooties), founded in 1924, headquartered in Paris.
• Recognized by the WTO for setting global standards on animal health and zoonotic disease control.

Objective of the Report:

• To provide a comprehensive global assessment of animal health trends, risks, and disease outbreaks.
• To promote a One Health approach, linking animal health with human health and environmental sustainability.

Major Findings:

1. Rising Zoonotic Threats:

• 47% of animal diseases reported between 2005–2023 have zoonotic potential (can spread from animals to humans).
• These include avian influenza, African swine fever (ASF), foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), and Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR).

2. Geographic Expansion of Diseases:

• Diseases are emerging in new regions and species due to climate change, global trade, and ecosystem disruptions.
• Example: ASF jumped over 1,800 km to reach Sri Lanka in 2024, marking the year's most significant disease leap.
• PPR re-emerged in Europe, traditionally limited to developing regions.

3. Avian Influenza Evolution:

• Over 630 million birds culled or lost in 20 years.
• In 2024, more outbreaks were reported in non-poultry species (55 countries) than poultry (42 countries).
• Mammal infections doubled, raising concerns of cross-species transmission.

4. Other Notable Disease Events:

• Germany faced its first FMD outbreak since 1988.
• New World Screwworm, a parasitic fly, re-emerged in Mexico and Nicaragua.
• Bluetongue virus reported in 23 countries with over 3,500 cases in 2024.

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): A Global Threat

Key Data:

• By 2050, AMR may cause:
  • Loss of livestock threatening food security for 2 billion people.
  • $100 trillion global economic loss.

Drivers:

• Indiscriminate use of antibiotics in livestock, aquaculture, and agriculture.
• Around 20% of countries still use antimicrobials as growth promoters, including high-priority drugs like colistin and enrofloxacin.

Trends:

• Global antibiotic use in animals fell by 5% (2020–2022).
  • Europe: 23% decline.
  • Africa: 20% decline.

Recommendations by WOAH:

• Enhance vaccine access and distribution, especially in low-income countries.
• Strengthen Veterinary Services, surveillance, and biosecurity.
• Improve hygiene and disease prevention to reduce antibiotic dependence.
• Promote international cooperation under the One Health framework.
• Ban or regulate the use of antibiotics as growth promoters.

About WOAH:

• Intergovernmental organization with 183 member countries, including India.
• Monitors, controls, and reports on animal diseases to ensure safe trade, public health, and food security.
• Partner in Global Action Plan on AMR with WHO and FAO.

Indian Initiatives on AMR & Animal Health:

• National Action Plan on AMR (2017–2021) – Focus on awareness, surveillance, infection control, and R&D.
• FSSAI guidelines to regulate antibiotic residues in food of animal origin.
• National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP) – Focus on vaccination against FMD and Brucellosis.

In News:

Amid rising climate-induced disasters—floods, heatwaves, droughts—the Union Home Minister recently called for proactive climate risk assessments. India, however, lacks a comprehensive and standardised system to assess Climate Physical Risks (CPR), exposing critical gaps in preparedness.

What is Climate Physical Risk (CPR)?

Definition: CPR refers to the potential damage from:

• Acute events: Floods, cyclones, heatwaves.
• Chronic stresses: Changing monsoon patterns, droughts.

IPCC Formula:

CPR = Hazard × Exposure × Vulnerability

• Hazard: Climate threats like floods or wildfires.
• Exposure: Presence of people/assets in risk-prone areas.
• Vulnerability: System's capacity to withstand and recover.

Why CPR Assessment Matters for India

• High Risk: Over 80% of Indians reside in districts exposed to climate disasters (World Bank).
• Systemic Threat: Affects not just the environment, but public health, agriculture, economy, and national security.
• Future-proofing Development: Long-term planning must consider CPR for sustainable infrastructure and financial stability.

Challenges in India’s CPR Management

• Fragmented Efforts: Multiple agencies (IMD, IITs, NIDM) conduct isolated studies with no integration.
• Lack of Standardised Data: No central repository for CPR metrics at the district or panchayat level.
• Modelling Limitations: Global models like RCPs and SSPs fail to capture India's hyper-local climate variations.
• Private Sector Constraints: Businesses lack tools to evaluate climate risks across supply chains.

Global Best Practices

• Mandatory Climate Disclosures: Global frameworks like ISSB S2 and EU Taxonomy require companies to report CPRs.
• Adaptation as Priority: Nations, including the Global North, are investing in adaptation infrastructure, recognizing its economic returns.
  • UNEP estimates: $1 in adaptation = $4 saved in disaster recovery.