environment

India’s First Biannual Transparency Report

Context: India is in the final stages of preparing its first-ever Biannual Transparency Report (BTR). This is part of India’s commitment under the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change. About Biannual Transparency Report BTR is an official document that provides...

Humpback Whale Accidentally Engulfs Kayaker in Chile

Context: Recently a 23-year-old Venezuelan kayaker was briefly engulfed by a humpback whale while kayaking through the Strait of Magellan, (off Chile’s Patagonian coast). Types of Whales Baleen Whales (Mysticeti) – 14 species Eg: Blue whales, humpback whales, grey whales....

Bacteria-made Band-Aid for Plants

Context: A recent study published in Science Advances has highlighted the use of bacterial cellulose as a bandage for plants. Key Findings of the Study Faster Wound Healing in Plants Small cuts were made on the leaves of two lab...

Lighten the Pollution Burden of Thermal Power States

Context: Despite the commitments to update Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement to the UNFCCC in August 2022, thermal power plants remain a significant source of electricity in India. Key Commitments in India's Updated NDC Adopting a climate-friendly...

Aravali Safari Park Project and Related Concerns

Context: The Haryana government has proposed a 3,858-hectare Aravali Safari Park across Gurugram and Nuh districts. About Aravali Safari Park Project It is a proposed wildlife park spanning 10,000 acres in the Aravalli hills of Haryana. The project would include...

Stubble Burning Contributes only 14% PM2.5 in Delhi-NCR

Context: According to a latest study stubble burning contributes only about 14% of PM2.5 in Delhi-NCR and is not the primary source of particulate matter in the region. Key Highlights of the Study on Stubble Burning The study utilized field...

High Levels of Microbes Found in River Water at Kumbh

Context: A recent report by the Central Pollution Control Board submitted to the National Green Tribunal has revealed high levels of faecal coliform in the Ganga and Yamuna rivers at Prayagraj during the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela. Key Findings of...

Development Vs Environment Debate

Context: Over 2,500 citizens gathered in Baner, Pune, for a ‘Chipko’ agitation, protesting against Riverfront Development (RFD) project. What are the Key Issues? Ecological damage. Concerns over tree cutting (11,000 trees to be felled). Fears that concretization of riverbanks may...

Climate Risk Index (CRI) 2025, Key Highlights and India’s Rank

India has been ranked 6th in the Climate Risk Index (CRI) 2025, which evaluates the impact of extreme weather events over the past three decades (1993-2022). The index highlights that India has faced over 400 extreme weather events, resulting in...

Climate Change, Causes, Effects and Government Initiatives

Context: January 2025 was officially the hottest January ever recorded globally, according to new data released this week by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). What is Meant by Climate Change? Climate Change refers to long-term shifts in global...