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Current Affairs Environment

2013

Current Affairs Environment


NGT bans digging of earth across the country
October 2nd, 2013

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has banned digging of earth acrossIndia for making bricks and roads without prior environment clearance. It directed the Chief Secretaries of all states and union territories to ensure that its interim order is implemented. The tribunal issued notice to Uttar Pradesh seeking its response on a plea to direct the state government to stop extraction of earth for making bricks and roads, allegedly going on in violation of a Supreme Court decision and directions of the Environment Ministry to all states. Around a month back, the National Green Tribunal banned sand mining from river beds, without environment clearance, across the country.
About National Green Tribunal (NGT)

Established: October 18, 2010 under the National Green Tribunal Act 2010. Aim: Effective and speedy disposal of cases relating to environmental protection and conservation of forests and other natural resources including enforcement of any legal right relating to environment and giving relief and compensation for damages to persons and property and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. The NGT is: Specialized body equipped with the necessary expertise to handle environmental disputes involving multi-disciplinary issues. Not bound by the procedure laid down under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908, but shall be guided by principles of natural justice. Mandated to make and endeavor for disposal of applications or appeals finally within 6 months of filing of the same.

Rock Wrens a species makes comeback from extinction through Conservation Project
September 29th, 2013

New Zealands Department of Conservation (DOC) project yielded positive result as Rock Wrens, one of the oldest as well as the most distinct songbird species retuned from extinction. The relocation project of DOC involved relocation of 41 tiny alpine Rock Wrens from around Fiordland in the far southwest of New Zealands South Island to Secretary Island from 2008 to 2011. Now, the number of Rock Wrens has increased to 66. It is the only true alpine bird in New Zealand and one of the most ancient bird species in the world which evolved from a species present more than 80 million years ago. The Rock Wren and the Rifleman are the only two wren species surviving today.

Govt to set up worlds largest solar power plant in Rajasthan


September 22nd, 2013

The government has begun the process of building 4,000 MW ultra mega green solar power project near Sambhar lake in Rajasthan. The project which has been named as Sambhar Ultra Mega Green Solar Power Project is being set under the Department of Heavy Industry (DHI) in the 23,000 acre area of Sambhar Salts Limited (SSL), subsidiary of Hindustan Salts Limited (HSL) located in Rajasthan. It will be the worlds largest solar based power project

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First Phase Sambhar Ultra Mega Green Solar Power Project:

In the first phase the project will generate 1,000 MW which will be commissioned in 3 years i.e. by the end of 2016. Partners in the development of the first phase are BHEL, Solar Energy Corporation of India, Power Grid Corporation, Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam and Rajasthan Electronics and Instruments Ltd. The development of the later phases will be based on the experience gained during implementation of the first phase of project.

Indian scientists undertake earthquake prediction research, measure the Deccan Trap
September 6th, 2013

Researchers from the Hyderabad-based National Geophysical Research Institute are conducting deep-earth study in the Koyna-Warna region of Maharashtra with the aim to enhance understanding of seismic activities and improve earthquake prediction.
What is special about this study?

The study is first of its kind in India which involves drilling deep holes of up to 8 km into the earth to directly visualize and measure rock changes during earthquakes. NGRI recently concluded airborne gravity gradeometery studies to get a closer look at Earths interior, again a fir st of its kind in the country. Recently, when scientists drilled 1.5 km into the earth during a test of drilling technology they accurately measured the Deccan Trap in the study region.
What are Deccan Traps?

The Deccan Traps are large volcanic deposits located on the Deccan Plateau of west-central India and one of the largest volcanic features on Earth formed due to eruptions about 65 million years ago at the end of the Cretaceous period.
How would this study help?

As per scientists, the project would take 5 to 10 years during which they expect to have a better understanding of below-the-surface phenomena during and after an earthquake. The Koyna-Warna region is known for frequent seismic activity, linked to changes in water levels in water reservoirs present in the region. Researchers will try to determine how the changes in water-reservoirs exactly triggers earthquake. In addition to that, drilling will also allow them to plant underground earthquake detection devices which will lead to creation of highly efficient warning systems.

Montreal Protocol helps reduce the size of hole in Ozone


September 6th, 2013

According to experts at University of Canterbury, the hole in the earths stratospheric ozone layer over Antarctica is recovering slowly and should close completely in the latter half of this century. However, its effect on global climate change is still uncertain. As per researchers, the Montreal Protocol, which effectively banned chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), had aided in reducing the size of the hole in the ozone layer. The protocol, which came into existence in 1989, is aninternational treaty to phase out substances believed to be responsible for ozone depletion. The scientists are of the view that if the protocol is adhered to, the ozone layer is expected to recover by 2050.

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MoE slaps Rs 200 crore penalty on Adani group


September 5th, 2013

A committee, established by the Ministry of Environment and Forests, under the chairmanship of Sunita Narain, director general of Centre for Science and Environment, has slapped a penalty of Rs 200 crore on the Adani Groups Mundra Port and Special Economic Zone for inflicting harm to mangroves, creeks and the local environment at the project site. In addition to the fine, a part of the project could face suspension after a more detailed probe into the alleged violation of environmental clearance norms. The money from the fine will go into an environment restoration fund for the area.
Why did the environment ministry impose fine on Adani Group?

As per the report submitted by Sunita Narain panel, it was found the Adani Group infringed environmental norms in the countrys largest private port in Mundra and special trade zone that it operates in the Kutch district in Gujarat. The penalty has been slapped fordamaging mangroves, creeks and the local environment at the project site. During its investigation the panel found widespread destruction of mangroves-75 hectares of mangroves have been lost in Bocha Island, which was declared as a conservation zone under the environmental clearance conditions. The panel stated in its report that the company has not taken precautions to guard against blocking of creeks because of construction activities; satellite imagery shows signs of deterioration and loss of creeks close to the proposed North Port.

Sikkim is Indias greenest state


August 23rd, 2013

As per an official data, Sikkim is Indias Greenest State with a forest cover 47.3% of its total geographical area and is more than double the national average of 21 %. The state government has fixed a target of bringing an additional 1,000 hectares of land under forest cover during the 12th Five Year Plan period (201217).
A Comparison of Sikkim in Green terms:

The state has 500 sq km area under very dense forests which is 7.05 %. It has 2,161 sq km area under moderately dense which is30.45% 698 sq km of its area is under open forests which is 9.84% The above figures are significantly higher than the national average of 2.54 % very dense forests, 9.76% moderately dense and 8.73 %open forests.
Who owns the credit of keeping Sikkim green?

Sikkim has achieved the distinction of being the greenest state in the country mainly due to various protection and conservation measures like Sikkim Green Mission, Ten Minutes to Earth and Smriti Vans.

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Extinction of large animals Megafauna damaged nutrient distribution system
August 20th, 2013

As per a latest studies, large animals acted as carriers of key nutrients to plants and animals over thousands of years. According to the findings, large animals which scientists call Megafaunaworked as key nutrient distributing arteries which spread vital nutrient substances like phosphorous which are essential for the growth of plants. The studies show that the extinction of the megafauna 12,000 years back wiped out one of the main means of transporting nutrients far from the rivers creating a nutrient deficiency which continues to affect plant and animal life in parts of the region today.
What is Megafauna?

As per researchers, South America was crowded with large animals which are named as megafauna a term for animals with a body mass of more than 44kg (the size of a large dog).
How did Megafauna play role in distributing nutrients?

Due to the large size of the megafauna, they eat and move more than small animals, they have a particularly important role in transporting nutrients into areas where the soil is infertile otherwise. For example: In South America, most nutrients originate in the Andes mountain range and are washed into the forests through the river system. On dry land these nutrients are in short supply unless they are transported through animal dung and bodies. While small animals distribute nutrients over small distances large animals have a much greater range. These megafauna which ate in high quantity and absorbing more phosphorous acted as a key reserve of phosphorous which they transported dry areas through their excretory products or through their bodies after death, thus, playing a significant role in nutrient distribution.

Environment Ministrys panel finds illegal sand mining in Gautam Buddh Nagar
August 18th, 2013

The environment ministry team found facts of the widespread illegal sand mining in Gautam Buddh Nagar district of Uttar Pradesh. The team was set up by the ministry in the backdrop of the suspension of the districts sub divisional magistrate Durga Shakti Nagpal who took on the illegal mining in the area.

Wildlife Protection Amendment Bill 2013 introduced in Rajya Sabha


August 14th, 2013

The Environment and Forests Ministry introduced in the Rajya Sabhamajor amendments to the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 that seek heavier penalties to check wildlife-related crimes and aim to make Indian laws consistent with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of wild flora and fauna (CITES).
Salient features of the Wildlife Protection Amendment Bill 2013:

The amended legislation aims to ban the use of animal traps except under certain conditions. It also looks forward to engage gram sabhas and gram panchayats in management of protected areas, and to grant hunting rights to hunter-gatherer Scheduled Tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

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Hunting in national parks and sanctuaries or the alteration of their boundaries should be punished with 5 to 7 years in jail and fine of Rs 5 to 25 lakh as compared to the previous 3 to 7 years in jail and Rs 10,000 fine. The punishment would be 7 years in prison and Rs 30 lakh fine for repeat offenders compared to the previous 3 to 7 years of imprisonment and Rs 25,000 fine now. The amendments are strict against crimes related to sale, purchase and transfer of animals, their parts or products listed in various schedules.

Environmental activists oppose Mithi Virdi Nuclear Plant


August 14th, 2013

Environmental activists in Gujarat are against the proposed Rs. 6,000 crore Mithi Virdi nuclear power plant in Saurashtra regions Bhavnagar district to be set up by NPCIL (Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited). They have written to the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) that alleging the Coastal Regulatory Zone (CRZ) clearance by the State government was given without any site visits and documentation of ground realities.
Why Environmental activists opposing the Mithi Virdi nuclear power plant?

As per the activists, clearance for the project has been given by overlooking safety aspects, site clearance report, and without undertaking any site visits. They argue that the basics like population increase in the immediate vicinity of the proposed plant have not been taken into account. According to the activists CRZ clearance is an act of endorsing the illegal and unconstitutional act of NPCIL and Engineers India Limited (EIL). Activists earlier alleged that the EIL were not authorized to conduct an environment impact assessment for a nuclear power plant.

China unveils first Giant Panda channel


August 8th, 2013

China Network Television has launched an internet channel ipanda.comdedicated to the conservation of Giant Panda. The website will show live 24-hour high-definition (HD) Internet broadcasts of the daily activities of the 80 endangered Pandas at the Chengdu Research Base of the Giant Panda Breeding in the southwest Sichuan Province which is Chinas premier panda breeding facility. Documentaries and a 30-minute panda-themed programme will also be broadcast everyday on the siteipanda.com.
What is the status of Giant Pandas?

Giant Pandas are one of the worlds most endangered species. About 1,600 pandas live in the wild, mostly in the mountains of Sichuan, while more than 300 live in captivity.

Research links Climate Change to Human Conflict


August 6th, 2013

As per a latest study from University of California, Berkeley which analysed 60 studies on climate change, by 2050, human conflict could rise by 50% due to the rising temperatures. The study covered all major types of violence and revealed large and clear changes in human behavior in response to climate.

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The research examined human behavior in relation to climate over the past 12,000 years in order to find a link between hot weather and aggression. It was found that intergroup conflict soared by 14% and interpersonal violence rose 4% for each temperature rise. As per the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), over the past century, the Earths average temperature has risen by 1.4F. Although this appears minute, small average temperature changes translate to large and potentially dangerous shifts in climate, which researchers have now revealed also creates hostile environments.

Pacific Marshall Islands under threat of climate catastrophe


August 3rd, 2013

The Marshall Islands has sought support to ward-off a future Pacific climate catastrophe that, it says, will expunge it from the map without critical action on global warming. The government of the Marshall Island has called for decisive action on climate change and has insisted US Secretary of State John Kerry to attend the 16-member Pacific Islands Forum to be hosted by Australia in September 2013 where a major climate declaration is likely to be made. Marshall Island seeks to present Majuro Declaration to the United Nations General Assembly to help renew global efforts on emissions reduction as the Pacific region battles rising seas and growing numbers of so-called climate refugees. The tiny Pacific atoll of 55,000 people, which is located at an average of just two metres above sea level, was already feeling the heat of global warming with an unprecedented seven-month drought in the north and a devastating king tide earlier this year triggering disaster declarations. The Marshalls government was already ferrying food and drinking water to 13 outer island communities due to drought-linked shortages that were threatening the export of copra, the dried-out flesh of coconuts from which oil is extracted, which underpinned its economy. The island is also facing immigration as climate refugees from neighbouring Kiribati and Tuvalu are taking refuge in the island. The government fears a two-metre sea level rise predicted by the World Bankbefore the end of the century.
Where are the Marshall Islands?

The Marshall Islands, officially the Republic of the Marshall Islands, is an island country located in the northern Pacific Ocean. Geographically, the country is part of the larger island group of Micronesia, with the population of 68,480 people spread out over 34 low-lying coral atolls, comprising 1,156 individual islands and islets. The islands share maritime boundaries with the Federated States of Micronesia to the west, Wake Island to the north, Kiribati to the south-east, and Nauru to the south. The most populous atoll is Majuro, which also acts as the capital.

E-surveillance to monitor various tiger habitats


July 31st, 2013

India plans to start electronic surveillance of some of the tiger habitats using high definition cameras as the tiger deaths each year are increasing mainly due to poaching and poisoning. With the E-surveillance the pilot study in the Kalagarh range of the Corbett National Park was quite satisfactory so the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has decided to expand E-

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surveillance to Assams Kaziranga Natonal Park, Madhya Sanctuary and the Ramnagar division surrounding Corbett .
How will tiger E-surveillance help?

Pradeshs

Ratapani

Wildlife

The surveillance involves putting into use high resolution thermal and infrared cameras mounted on towers to capture image of objects weighing more than 20 kg in a range of 3-5 km and generate alerts if the boundary is crossed. It will also keep an eye on unauthorized people entering into the tiger habitat areas and tigers straying into human habitat. It is a fool-proof anti-poaching system that gathers information, does processing, filtering and then sends alerts.

Ford becomes the first automaker to join India Greenhouse Gas Reporting (GHG) Program
July 30th, 2013

Detroit giant Ford has became the first automaker to join a voluntary greenhouse gas reporting program (a carbon reporting programme) newly established in India. The company already participates in similar programs in the United States, China, Canada, Mexico, Brazil and Argentina. Voluntary reporting provides overall transparency regarding the companys CO2 emissions and the company hold importance to reduce CO2 emissions at its global facilities, including two in Chennai, by 30% per vehicle by 2025. Fords role in this programme will be to assist in the establishment of credi ble and verifiable greenhouse gas inventories.
What is India Greenhouse Gas Program (India GHG Program):

It is the joint effort between the World Resources Institute(WRI), The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). A voluntary initiative to standardize measurement and management of GHG emissions in India.
Program Partners for India Greenhouse Gas Program (India GHG Program)

1. CII Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) 2. TERI The Energy and Resources Institute 3. WRI World Resources Institute
Founding Members for India Greenhouse Gas Program (India GHG Program)

1. Godrej & Boyce Mfg. Co. Ltd. 2. Hindustan Construction Co. Limited (HCC Limited) 3. ACC Cement 4. Ford Motor Company (Ford India) 5. Jet Airways (India) Limited 6. Mahindra Sanyo Steel 7. Tata Teleservices Limited 8. Bayer Group of Companies India 9. Akzo Nobel 10. Shree Cements 11. United Technologies 12. Tata Chemicals 13. National Thermal Power Company (NTPC) Limited 14. Infosys Technologies 15. Ambuja Cement

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16. ITC Limited 17. Cummins India 18. Yes Bank 19. National Peroxide Limited 20. Forbes Marshall 21. JK Tyres 22. Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) 23. Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL)
Key Objectives of India Greenhouse Gas Reporting Programme :

To help companies in the country monitor their progress towards voluntary reduction goals consistently and credibly. Aimed at promoting profitable, sustainable, and competitivebusiness. Under this programme, companies will be provided with tools and technical assistance to build inventories, identify reduction opportunities, establish annual and long-term reduction goals, and track their progress based on the most widely used emissions accounting and reporting standard in the world, the GHG (Green House Gases) Protocol. The India GHG Program will also facilitate engagement of the business sector with policy makers, supporting progress and advancement towards national goals on carbon intensity and GHG emissions mitigation. The program will build a pool of trained and certified GHG practitioners and GHG measurement and management professionals.
What is : The Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG Protocol)?

The Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG Protocol) is a global collaboration led by WBCSD and WRI. It is the most widely used international accounting tool for government and business leaders to understand, quantify, and manage greenhouse gas emissions. GHG Protocol provides the foundation for sustainable climate strategies and more efficient, resilient and profitable organizations. GHG Protocol standards are the most widely used accounting tools to measure, manage and report on greenhouse gas emissions. It serves as the foundation for nearly every GHG standard and program in the world from the International Standards Organization to The Climate Registry as well as hundreds of GHG inventories prepared by individual companies. Offers developing countries an internationally accepted management tool to help their businesses to compete in the global marketplace and their governments to make informed decisions about climate change.
Who Uses The GHG Protocol?

Since the publication of the first edition of The Greenhouse Gas Protocol: A Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard (Corporate Standard) in 2001, more than 1,000 businesses and organizations worldwide have developed their GHG inventories using the GHG Protocol. o o Some of the worlds largest companies are using the GHG Protocols Corporate Standard. The 2007 Corporate Climate Communications Report of the Fortune 500 companies by corporateregister.com reported 63 percent of companies use the GHG Protocol.

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o GHG Protocol is considered the second most important climate program after Kyoto Protocol in the successful measurement and management of climate change.

Campaign Clean India adopts Taj Mahal


July 28th, 2013

The World Heritage Site, Taj Mahal has been adopted by ONGC as part of its corporate social responsibilities through the Campaign CleanIndia being run under Ministry of Tourism. Taj Mahal a world heritage site and is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It is the Crown Jewel among the tourist destinations in India and naturally is a priority destination under the Campaign Clean India programme.
Background of Campaign Clean India:

At the initiative of Ministry of Tourism, the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) has agreed to the initiative for permitting ONGC for adopting six monuments under Campaign Clean India. The six monuments/tourist destinations are: Taj Mahal at Agra, Ellora Caves in Maharashtra, Elephanta Caves in Maharashtra, Red Fort in Delhi, Golkonda Fort Hyderabad and Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu. ONGC is adopting these monuments as part of their corporate social responsibilities and it is the endeavor of Ministry of Tourism that Campaign Clean India is carried out for maximum number of monuments/tourist destinations so that tourists instill the feelings and spirit of cleanliness and respect for such monuments.
What is Campaign Clean India?

The Campaign Clean India is a programme being run by the Ministry of Tourism aimed at undertaking both sensitization and action at field level on bringing our tourism destinations and their surroundings to an acceptable level of cleanliness and hygiene. The Campaign will ensure that these levels are sustained through ownership and involvement of private and public sector stakeholders. The campaign will be part of Governments strategy of the 12 th five year plan for improving the quality of services and environs in and around tourist destinations across India.

Two US Jets drops bombs on Great Barrier Reef Marine Park


July 25th, 2013

The two AV-8B Harrier jets launched from aircraft carrier USS Bonhomme Richard dropped four unarmed bomb in the World Heritage listed Marine Park off the coast of Queensland state when the training exercise went wrong. The four bombs were dropped in more than 50 meters of water away from coral to diminish possible damage to the reef. Originally, the jets were to drop the ordnances on the Townshend Island bombing range but they cut off the mission as controllers stated that the area was not clear of hazards. The pilots did the emergency jettison as they were low on fuel and could not land with their bomb loaded. About The Great Barrier Reef: The Great Barrier Reef (GBR) is the worlds largest coral reef system composed of over 2,900 individual reef sand 900 islands spanned over 2,600 kilometers over an area of approximately 344,400 square kilometers. The reef is located in the Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland, Australia.

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Importance of GBR: It has the worlds biggest single structure made by billions of tiny living organisms known as coral polyps. It is a rich ecosystem bearing a great diversity of life. A major part of the reef is protected by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, which helps to limit the impact of human use, such as fishing and tourism. The reef ecosystem faces threat from other environmental pressures which include runoff, climate change accompanied by mass coral bleaching, and cyclic population outbreaks of the crown of thorns starfish. It is a very popular destination for tourists, especially in the Whitsunday Islands and Cairns regions. Tourism is an important economic activity for the region generating over $3 billion annually and is a significant part of local groups cultures and spirituality. It was selected as a World Heritage Site in 1981.

India and ADB Sign an Agreement for Gujarat Solar Power Transmission System
July 24th, 2013

With the rapid growing electricity demand, and increasing reliance on imported sources of fossil fuel the Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed an agreement for a $100 million ADB loan (A LIBOR based loan from ADBs Ordinary Capital Resources which has a term of 25 years including 5 years of grace period ) to develop a transmission system that will distribute 500 megawatts of solar power from the Charanka Solar Park in Gujarat. ADB is committed to generating 3,000 MW of solar power by 2013 under its Asia Solar Energy Initiative. Key Objectives of the Project: Using an inventive Public Private Partnership (PPP) model, the project will create job opportunities, improve social services and contribute to poverty reduction locally. It will also support power distribution companies in Gujarat and other Indian power utilities to meet part of their energy needs through solar energy. It will not only benefit Gujarat, but will also help develop the PPP solar park model under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission. An associated Technical Assistance (TA) funded by theDepartment for International Development of the United Kingdom and administered by ADB will provide professional training in energy-related skills and livelihood opportunities to local people. At least half of the participants will be women. Note: The Indian Government is aiming to generate 20,000 MW of solar power by 2022 . It has launched the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM) in 2010, which is expected to generate 1,000 MW by 2013 by expanding grid-connected solar power generation.

Great Barrier Reef in poor health, admits Australia


July 12th, 2013

As per the report released by the Environment Ministry of Australia, the conditions at the Great Barrier Reef were poor as it faces UNESCOthreats to downgrade its heritage status over concerns about pollution and development.

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What has been the major cause of decline in Great Barrier Reefs health?

The report shows that the reefs health has declined since 2009 due to cyclones and floods, despite progress on reducing agricultural runoff. Despite decrease in nitrogen (by 7%); pesticides (by 15%); sediment (by 6%); and pollutants key to outbreaks of devastating crown-of-thorns starfish that prey on corals (by 13%), the reef is in trouble. As per the report, intense flooding in 2010-2011 followed by powerful cyclone Yasi had badly damaged the worlds largest coral reef, degrading water quality and depleting overall cover by 15% and full recovery of the reef will take decades. A study published in 2012 had revealed that coral cover had more than halved due to storms, predatory starfish outbreaks and bleaching linked to climate change over the past 27 years. Intense tropical cyclones were responsible for much of the damage, accounting for 48%, with the coral-feeding starfish linked to 42%. It is noticeable that UNESCO has warned to downgrade the reefs world heritage status to declare it at risk in 2014 if there is no significant action on rampant coastal and resources development seen as a danger to its survival.

Experts highlight potential of cassava as biofuel crop


July 12th, 2013

Experts participating in the International Conference on Tropical Roots and Tubers organized by the Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (CTCRI) and the Indian Society for Root Crops (ISRC) have highlighted the evolving potential of cassava as feedstock for the production of bioethanol as fuel.
What is Cassava?

Cassava is a crop cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions for its edible starchy, tuberous root, a major source of carbohydrates. It is the third-largest source of food carbohydrates in the tropics, after rice and maize. Cassava is a major staple food in the developing world, providing a basic diet for over half a billion people. It is one of the most drought-tolerant crops, capable of growing on marginal soils. Nigeria is the worlds largest producer of cassava.
How Cassava can be used as a bio-fuel?

Cassava has a high energy content, low maintenance and ability to grow under a wide range of climatic conditions, cassava. All these qualities render it a potential for production of bio-ethanol. The technology for cassava alcohol, patented by the CTCRI in the 1980s, requires refinement for commercial scale production. Bioethanol based on the lignocellulosic residue of cassava and sweet potato could be combined with starch-based options to make biofuel production cost effective. The high productivity of cassava crop in Indiawould make production of bioethanol cost- competitive. The step to bring comparatively less fertile land in the semi-arid areas ofMaharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and high rainfall regions in the northeastern region under cassava cultivation would ensure supply of raw material for ethanol production.

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Himachal Pradesh becomes countrys first smoke-free State


July 6th, 2013

Himachal Pradesh has been declared the first smoke-free State in the country in compliance with Section 4 of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003. The State has achieved 85.45% compliance with the relevant parameters. The State government intends to eliminate tobacco products and has hiked taxes on bidis and cigarettes from 11 and 18% to 22 and 36%, respectively in the 2013-14 Budget. What is the scope COTPA 2003? The Act is applicable to all products containing tobacco in any form i.e. cigarettes, cigars, cheroots, bidis, gutka, pan masala (containing tobacco) khaini, mawa, mishri, snuff etc. as detailed in the Schedule to the Act. The Act extends to the whole of India including the state ofJammu and Kashmir. What does Section 4 of COTPA provide for? Section 4: Prohibition Of Smoking In Public Places The Government of India passed new rules on May 30, 2008 for effective realization of the objectives of smoke free environments as stipulated under the Indian law. No person shall smoke in any public place Public Place means any place to which the public have access, whether as of right or not, and includes auditorium, hospital buildings, railway waiting room, amusement centres, restaurants, public offices, court buildings, work places, shopping malls, cinema halls, educational institutions, libraries, public conveyances and the like which are visited by general public but does not include any open space. Mandates display of board containing the warning No Smoking Area- Smoking Here is an Offence Hotels & Restaurants should ensure physical segregation of smoking and non-smoking area. Hotels having thirty rooms or a restaurant having seating capacity of thirty persons or more and in the airports, a separate provision for smoking area or space may be made.

Ghaziabad, Allahabad most polluted in Uttar Pradesh: Survey


July 6th, 2013

In a recent survey conducted by Delhi-based Centre for Science andEnvironment (CSE) it was found that Ghaziabad and Allahabad are the two most air polluted cities in Uttar Pradesh. As per the survey: Pollutants of the size of 10 micron was found in Ghaziabad, Allahabad, Kanpur and Bareilly, which was four times the acceptable size of particulates in urban areas. Air pollution levels were thrice as high as the prescribed limits in Lucknow, Firozabad, Agra, Mathura, Khurja, Saharanpur, Moradabad and Gajraula. Unnao has come out as the cleanest air quality despite a heavy presence of tanneries in the town. Nitrogen-di-oxide pollutant is found to be increasing dangerously in Meerut, Gorakhpur, Ghaziabad and Kanpur. It is the highest in Meerut and lowest in Rae Bareilly. Khurja and Ghaziabad have dangerous levels of sulphur-di-oxide mixed in the air.

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The presence of multi-pollutants was found in cities like Mathura, Khurja and Ghaziabad. The leading cause of pollution was found to be the manifold increase in the number of vehicles. The growing use of diesel was a major contributor to the growing air pollution levels. The emissions were leading to serious ailments and diseases like cancer.

Man-made factors to blame Uttarakhand Floods: Environmentalists


July 6th, 2013

The devastating floods of Uttarakhand which ravaged the region by killing thousands and leaving hundreds of other stranded has more man-made factors and less natural cause behind it. As per Environmentalists the uncontrolled development and poor disaster planning has aggravated flood damage. How is it a man-made disaster? As per experts indiscriminate development in hill towns and along rivers has blocked the natural flow of water and exacerbated flood damage. They place the blame on successive governments who have prioritized large scale infrastructure construction and neglected disaster prevention. The unbridled growth of tourism accompanied with proliferation of roads, hotels, shops and multistory housing in ecologically fragile areas and above all mushrooming hydroelectricity dams that disrupt water balances are the underlying causes of this catastrophe. It was not unprecedented that Uttarakhand region witnessed such heavy rainfalls as the records show that Uttarakhand has recorded single-day rainfall in excess of 400mm several times, including 450mm in 1995 and 900mm in 1965. Cloudbursts, floods and rapid swelling of fast-flowing rivers arent uncommon. But this time the floodwaters, loaded with tens of thousands of tonnes of silt, boulders and debris from dam construction, found no outlet. The routes they took in the past, including ravines and streams, were blocked with sand and rocks. The waters deluged towns and villages, submerging some buildings under several feet of mud, asphyxiating life. It is highly probable that the floods were exacerbated by Glacier Lake Outbursts Floods (GLOFs) which inundated the Kedarnath temple. GLOFs, or the explosive bursting of glacier lakes, are thought to be a result of human-induced climate change, which is causing rapid melting of glaciers in the Himalayas, themselves warming at twice the global rate. Lack of an early warning system, effective evacuation plans and a responsive disaster management system added to the calamity. Modestly priced radar-based technology to forecast cloudbursts would have saved lives. But it wasnt installed. There was failure on the level of local governance too. Sloppy, unregulated construction of roads and bridges was permitted on crumbling, landslide-prone ridges and steep slopes, overlooking the regions delicate geology and high earthquake vulnerability. Large scale deforestation and construction of hundreds of buildings in the flood plains of rivers have taken place. Riverbeds were recklessly mined for sand. As construction debris accumulated, land contours and flows of streams and rivers changed. Indiscriminate construction of hydroelectric dams was the biggest mistake. These involve drilling huge tunnels in the hills by blasting rocks, placing enormous turbines in the tunnels, destroying soil-binding vegetation to build water channels and other infrastructure, laying transmission lines and carelessly dumping excavated muck. Many dams have been built on the same river so close to one another that they leave no scope for its regeneration.

Curb sale of adulterated milk: Supreme Court to State govts


July 5th, 2013

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Expressing concern over the sale of adulterated milk in the country, theSupreme Court has directed the governments of Haryana, Rajasthan,Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Delhi to file their response stating what action they are taking to curb the menace of milk adulteration, after the Centre submitted that it is for the state governments to take action on the issue. The direction from the court came during a hearing on a PIL filed by a group of citizens led by Swami Achyutanand Tirth of Uttarakhand, who have alleged that synthetic and adulterated milk and milk products are prepared using urea, detergent, refined oil, caustic soda and white paint, which, according to studies, are very hazardous to human life and can cause diseases like cancer. The court would later on expand the ambit of the PIL to include all the states in the country on the issue. According to a survey conducted by Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI): Over 68% of milk in the country does not conform to the standards set by the FSSAI. Over 68% of the non-conforming milk was found in urban areas, 66% of which was loose milk. Most common ways of adulteration was found to be the addition of water, and the main reason for deviation from the standards was addition of glucose and skimmed milk powder. It had also found that some samples contained detergent. Over 83% of the non-conforming milk in rural areas was found to be loose milk.

India imposes ban on testing of cosmetics on animals


July 2nd, 2013

In a remarkable decision intended to prevent cruelty to animals, India has decided to ban the testing of cosmetics and its ingredients on animals. This has made India the first country in South Asia to impose such a ban. The decision was taken at a meeting of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Cosmetics Sectional Committee, chaired by the Drugs Controller General of India and is in line with the European Unions stand. The step follows appeals from various quarters, including that from the National Advisory Council Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and campaigner for animal rights Maneka Gandhi and the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), to prevent cruelty to animals. What is the ban? Any cosmetic product which performs animal testing will face action as per provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and the Animal Cruelty Act. Infringement of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act by any person or corporate manager or owner is liable for punishment for a term which may extend from 3-10 years and shall also be liable to fine which could be Rs.500 to Rs.10,000, or with both. The law also makes it mandatory to use modern non-animal alternative tests, replacing invasive tests on animals. It implies that any manufacturer interested in testing new cosmetic ingredients or finished products must first get the approval from Indias regulator Central Drug Standards Control Organization. A manufacturer will be given approval to test only after complying with the BIS nonanimal standards.

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Animal Testing Status: Companies around the world are switching to effective, modern non-animal tests and more than 1,200 companies have already given up animal-testing methods. But many still are carrying out with the same old procedures of subjecting animals to painful tests.

Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS): NASA launches satellite to study Suns atmosphere
July 2nd, 2013

The U.S. space agency NASA launched a satellite to uncover the s ecrets of the Suns lower atmosphere. NASAs Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS) was launched aboard an Orbital Sciences Pegasus XL rocket off the California coast. About IRIS mission: Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS) is a $182 million mission which will continue for two years. It aims to observe the movement of solar material. It will try to know how it gathers energy and heats up as it makes its way through a mysterious region in the suns lower atmosphere. IRIS will help in knowing not only the causes the ejection of solar material, including solar wind, but also solar eruptions that can disrupt human technology. What is this mysterious region? This is a region b/w the suns photosphere and corona where most of the suns ultraviolet e mission is generated, which impact the near-Earth space environment and Earths climate.

V K Duggal appointed as nodal officer for relief & rescue operations in Uttarakhand
June 24th, 2013

The government appointed former top Union home secretary V K Duggal as the nodal officer for relief and rescue operations in flood hit Uttarakhand, saying lack of proper coordination was hindering its mitigation efforts. The relief and rescue operations are going on in the flood-ravaged areas of Uttarakhand with the combined efforts of the Army units along withAirforce and ITBP. There was an impression that lack of coordination among different agencies involved in the relief and rescue operations was hampering the governments mitigation efforts.

Cabinet approves IWMP as a flagship programme


June 23rd, 2013

In order to make Centrally-sponsored programmes condensed, the Cabinet has approved Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) as a flagship programme of the government. Why IWMP? Around 60% of cultivated area across India is rain-fed. Besides, these areas are also blighted by poverty, water scarcity, low productivity, malnutrition and prone to severe land degradation. The watershed development programme has been adopted as a tool to address problems of the rain-fed or degraded areas in the country.

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Key Points of IWMP: Launched in 2009-10 by the integration of various area development programmes of the Department of Land Resources, including the Drought Prone Areas Programme (DPAP), the Desert Development Programme (DDP) and the Integrated Wastelands Development Programme (IWDP). The 12th Plan allocates the programme an additional Rs. 29,296 crore. Cost sharing ratio of Central Government : State Government = 90 : 10 9% of the project cost is earmarked for development of livelihoods for asset-less people 10% of the project cost is for productivity enhancement and development of micro-enterprises for small & marginal farmers. An average size of project under the IWMP is about 5,000 ha which is cluster of micro-watersheds. A portion of institution &capacity building (5% of the total project cost) has been provided to set up institutional mechanism at State, District, Project and Village levels and to build capacities of stakeholders. It also entails involvement of primary stakeholders in the form of grassroots community organisations. Expected Benefits of IWMP: The benefits include increase in availability of surface water & groundwater, changes in cropping pattern from one to two crops annually, increase in fodder availability and increase in milk yield, increase in agriculture What are Flagship Programmes? Flagship programmes derive their origin from the term flagship which is the main or most important ship of a countrys navy and is symbolic of the main thrust of the nations developmental policy. Major Flagship programmes of the Government of India are: Bharat Nirman: The objective of the Bharat Nirman Programme is to give top priority to rural infrastructure by setting time-bound goals under various schemes to develop rural housing, rural roads, irrigation, rural drinking water and rural electrification. The Programme imposes a responsibility on sub-national governments to create these facilities in a transparent and accountable manner. National Rural Health Mission: The main aim of NRHM is to provide accessible, affordable, accountable, effective, and reliable primary health care, especially to poor and vulnerable sections of the population. The programme sets standards for rural health care and provides financial resources from the Union Government to meet these standards. Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Programme: The Act was notified on 7 September 2005 and is aimed at providing livelihood security through employment for the rural poor. Sarva Siksha Abhigyan: This programme was started with the objective of providing elementary education for all children in the age group of 614 years by 2010. Mid-day meal Scheme: The MDM Scheme launched in 1995 aims to give a boost to universalization of primary education by increasing enrolment, retention, and attendance and simultaneously impacting upon nutritional status of students in primary classes. Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP)

Renewable energy transmission corridors to be set up in Tamil Nadu


June 15th, 2013

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Two major high-capacity transmission corridors, exclusively meant for renewable energy, are being set up in Tamil Nadu. The projects which is being executed by the Tamil Nadu Transmission Corporation (Tantransco) is estimated to a cost Rs. 4,400 crore and are capable of evacuating at least 2,000 megawatt (MW) each. Where are these projects being executed? One corridor covering about 700-km is from Kayathar of Tuticorin district to Sholinganallur and the other with a length of about 400-km, b/w Thappagundu of Theni district to Salem. The first corridor is likely to be commissioned by March next while the other line, with a length of about 400 km, is expected to be ready by 2014 end. Why these projects? These projects are aimed at addressing concerns of investors in the wind energy sector regarding inadequate evacuation facilities in the State and to cater to its future needs. Two more factors have compelled the authorities to take up these transmission projects. Firstly, the centres of electricity consumption are located at a considerable distance from the centres of wind energy. Secondly, to some extent, the transmission line meant for evacuating power from the proposed Kudankulam Nuclear Power Station is being used to transmit from windmills. Once the Kudankulam Station is commissioned shortly, that line can no longer be relied upon. Who is funding the projects? The transmission projects are being funded by the Rural Electrification Corporation and Power Finance Corporation, both agencies of the Central government.

Number of Royal Bengal Tiger in Sudarbans exceeds 2011 census estimates


June 13th, 2013

As per a new study conducted in collaboration with World Wildlife Fund For Nature (WWF) and Wildlife Institute of India, the number of Royal Bengal tigers in the four ranges of the Sundarban Tiger Reserve (STR) and the adjoining South 24 Parganas districts is 103 which is more than the estimates of the 2011 census. As per Study: Of the 3,500 sq km of the Indian side of Sundarbans, about 40-45 per cent is water. This leaves about 2,000 sq km for the tigers. There was presence of a tiger in every 20 sq km of the delta. The density of tiger population varied for a tiger from 14 sq km to 18 sq km in a mainland forest. Sundarbans is still a healthy habitat despite shortage of the prey base for the animal. Factbox : Sunderbans Largest single block of tidal halophytic mangrove forest in the world. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site spanning across parts ofBangladesh and the Indian state of West Bengal. Bangladesh controls 2/3rd of the Sundarbans India manages 1/3rd which is in West Bengal Sundarbans National Park is a National Park, Tiger Reserve, and a Biosphere Reserve located in the Sundarbans delta in the Indian state of West Bengal. Sundarbans South, East and West are three protected forests in Bangladesh.

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It is densely covered by mangrove forests, and is one of the largest reserves for the Bengal tiger.

World Oceans Day observed on June 8, 2013


June 8th, 2013

World Ocean Day was observed across the globe on 8 June 2013. The theme for this year is: Together, we have the Power to Protect the Oceans. Although World Ocean Day was introduced in 1992 at Rio de Janeiro, it was in 2008 when United Nations General Assembly decided to designate June 8 as the World Oceans Day from 2009 onwards with its resolution number 63/111, Paragraph 171. Importance: The day focuses on raising global awareness of the current challenges faced by the international community in connection with the oceans.

World Environment Day Observed globally with the theme: Think. Eat. Save- Reduce Your Foodprint
June 7th, 2013

World Environment Day was observed in India and across the globe on June 5. The day was dedicated by the UN Conference on Human Environment in 1972 for the cause of spreading awareness about environment protection. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) disseminates environmental awareness through the celebration of World Environment Day to get citizens support for environment protection across the globe. This years World Environment Day theme: Think. Eat. Save- Reduce Your Foodprint The campaign bespeaks minimizing waste of food at all stages of the food chain, from farm to fork. This is to increase awareness about the environmental consequences of our food choices and find solutions to reduce our environmental foodprint, as food production has heavy impact on environmental resources.

ONGC adopts six monuments under Campaign Clean India


June 7th, 2013

The Archeological Survey of India (ASI) has agreed to the initiative ofMinistry of Tourism for permitting ONGC for adopting six monuments under Campaign Clean India. The six monuments/tourist destinations are: Taj Mahal at Agra, Ellora Caves in Maharashtra, Elephanta Caves in Maharashtra, Red Fort in Delhi, Golkonda Fort Hyderabad and Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu. ONGC is adopting these monuments as part of their corporate social responsibilities and it is the endeavor of Ministry of Tourism that Campaign Clean India is carried out for maximum number of monuments/tourist destinations so that tourists instill the feelings and spirit of cleanliness and respect for such monuments. What is Campaign Clean India? The Campaign Clean India is a programme being run by the Ministry of Tourism aimed at undertaking both sensitization and action at field level on bringing our tourism destinations and their surroundings to an acceptable level of cleanliness and hygiene. The Campaign will ensure that these levels are sustained through ownership and involvement of private and public sector stakeholders. The campaign

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will be part of Governments strategy of the 12 th five year plan for improving the quality of services and environs in and around tourist destinations across India.

Uttarakhand CM opposes declaring Gomukh-Gangotri as eco-sensitive zone


June 7th, 2013

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Vijay Bahuguna has urged the Centre to review the recent notification declaring the 100 km stretch from Gomukh to Uttarkashi as an eco-sensitive zone. The declaration is being opposed by the locals in that area who are saying that if the notification is implemented it would adversely affect the infrastructuredevelopment in the border district. As per the Chief Minister, the locals are hopeful that the power projects under construction or planned there would help in developing the backward economy of the region. Besides, he is also of the view that if the notification is implemented then it will impede Border road projects which is also needed to be constructed at the earliest keeping in mind the infrastructure development being carried out by China close to the Indian border.

Union Government approves National Oil Spill Contingency Plan


June 4th, 2013

In order to mitigate the impact of oil spills on the marine environment the Union Government has approved the National Oil Spill Contingency Plan (NOSDCP). The central objective behind this plan is to reduce the impact of all oil spills on the environment by setting specific standards for oil spill equipment stockpiles, establishing time frames for oil spill response and enhancing collaboration among partner agencies. Massive efforts were put in by the various resource agencies and stakeholders for cleaning of oiled mangroves at Sikka and Sarmat in the Gulf of Kutchchh, capping of gas leak from the ONGC well off Kakinada, and response to the fire onboard M.V Amsterdam Bridge off the Mumbai harbour. The government feels the need for periodical review of contingency plans in order to ensure speedy and efficient mobilisation of critical resources in the event of any oil spill exigency.

Madhya Pradesh govt to listen to oustees of the Omkareshwar dam project


June 2nd, 2013

The MP government has decided to hear out the issues of the oustees of the Omkareshwar dam project who have been protesting standing in waist to neck-deep water, for the last two weeks as part of their jal satyagraha. Why this protest? The jal satyagraha was started by the oustees in May 2013 to at Ghogalgaon village in M.P.s East Nimaar region to protest against the state governments decision to raise the water level in the dam to 193 metres from 189 without ensuring prior relief and rehabilitation, including land for land, to the oustees. The Omkareshwar Project: The 520 MW Omkareshwar project is one of the several big dams in the Narmada Valley, built by the Narmada Hydroelectric Development Corporation, a joint venture between NHPC Ltd and the government ofMadhya Pradesh.

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IFC provides $5 million funds to NSL Renewable Power
June 2nd, 2013

NSL Renewable Power which develops and operates renewable energy projects across India, will be provided funding of of $5 million by theInternational Finance Corporation (IFC) a member of the World BankGroup (not to be confused with World Bank). This financing will support the company to double its power generation capacity over the next 18 months. This is for the second time the company is receiving funds from the IFC after getting a $20-million equity investment that IFC had made in the company in 2011. About NSL Renewable Power: NSL Renewable Power develops and operates renewable energy projects using biomass, wind, hydro, and solar technologies. It has an operational capacity of 185 MW across India. What is the difference b/w World Bank and World Bank Group? The World Bank was created at the 1944 Bretton Woods Conference, along with three other institutions, including the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The World Bank and the IMF are both based in Washington DC, and work closely with each other. Difference: World Bank Group is a large group which comprises of five institutions collectively: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) International Development Association (IDA) International Finance Corporation (IFC) Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) Whereas, World Bank is comprised of only two institutions: 1. International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) 2. International Development Association (IDA)

Archaeopteryx regains Bird status


June 1st, 2013

Fossil creature Archaeopteryx that lived about 150 million years ago is back on its perch. It has again been brought in the class of Birds. Background: Archaeopteryx fossil was discovered in 1861 in Germany. It possessed part-bird, part-reptile traits with broad wings and feathers like a bird, but it also had three-fingered claws, sharp teeth and a long bony tail similar to a dinosaur. Classified as most primitive bird and as a transition b/w feathered dinosaurs and modern birds. Some fossil discoveries of feathered dinosaurs in northeasternChina over the past two decades have challenged Archaeopteryxs place in bird evolution.

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In July 2012, Chinese scientists excavated Xiaotingia zhengi, a previously unknown chicken-sized dinosaur. They carried out a statistical analysis of its anatomical traits that placed it in a group of bird-like dinosaurs called deinonychosaurs. Recently an international team led by the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences used more sophisticated statistical method to confirm the creature as Bird.

India, US & Australia will collaborate to develop climate-resilient crops


May 31st, 2013

Three nations- India, the United States and Australia have come together to collaborate on developing new climate-resilient varieties of rice and wheat, two of the big three primary crops essential to feed the world. The key agencies/organizations which are part of this effort are the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is backing a new public-private research partnership b/w the Australian Centre for Plant Functional Genomics (ACPFG) and Indias Vibha Agrotech. How it will be done?

The effort will put to use the unique specialties of ACPFG (gene technologies and expertise in cereal stress tolerance) and Vibha Agrotechs field evaluation and rice transformation capabilities to develop new rice and wheat varieties with greater tolerance to drought and salinity, allowing farmers more stable production in the event of sudden drought and evolving salt water intrusion. The new lines will be evaluated under representative field conditions and the most successful will be transferred into the varieties that farmers grow. Initially, the work will begin in Australia and India, but the technologies will be made available to developing countries in South Asia and globally where climate stresses impact cereal yields, so that farmers can be more confident that they will have a good harvest, even as climate change creates more unpredictable growing environments. What are Big Three Crops? Big Three crops are: 1. 2. 3. Rice Wheat Maize

Why this endeavor? As the climate is changing it has become imperative to develop varieties of key crops which can sustain this change as well as provide high yield in the event of adverse climatic conditions like drought and salinity. With expanding population and reduction in the availability of land for agricultural purpose there will be the necessity to introduce such crops to mitigate global hunger and address food security.

Frozen plants from Little Ice Age revived


May 31st, 2013

Scientists were amazed to find that the 400-year-old plants known as bryophytes showed new growth under laboratory conditions.

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The researchers are studying Teardrop Glacier region high in the Canadian Arctic which is receding at rates that have sharply accelerated since 2004, at about 3-4m per year. The area had been under ice cover since the Little Ice Age- a widespread climatic cooling that ran roughly from AD 1550 to AD 1850. But changes in the environment have led to melting of glaciers which has given researchers an opportunity to explore the hitherto unknown forms of organisms. The current revival of life in bryophytes would help us understand how ecosystems recover from the planets cyclic long periods of ice coverage. What are Bryophytes? Bryophyte is a traditional name used to refer to all embryophytes (land plants) that do not have true vascular tissue and are therefore called non-vascular plants.Some bryophytes do have specialized tissues for the transport of water; however since these do not contain lignin, they are not considered to be true vascular tissue.

Fact Box: Green Energy Corridor Project; Government plans to invest Rs 43,000 Crore in the project
May 28th, 2013

Rs 43,000-cr green energy corridor plan for renewable energy The Government plans to launch a Rs 43,000-crore Green Energy Corridor project to facilitate the flow of renewable energy into the national grid. The project will be implemented with the assistance of Germany who has promised provide developmental and technical assistance of 1 billion for the project. The government has taken lessons from the massive power grid failure that hit the North, East and North-East regions of the country on July 30-31 in 2012 which called for attention to strengthen the electricity distribution network in the country. What is Green Energy Corridor Project? The Green Energy Corridor Project is an upcoming project which aims at synchronising electricity produced from renewable sources, such as solar and wind, with conventional power stations in the grid. The Project: Objective: Synchronising electricity produced from renewable sources, such as solar and wind, with conventional power stations in the grid. Cost: Rs 43,000-crore The whole project has been divided into two parts:

1. Inter State: To be developed by State utilities 2. Intra State: To be developed by Power Grid Corporation of India(PGCIL)

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Germany, who has expertise in making smart grids that integrate renewable energy into national grid will be assisting India in this project. Germany has promised provide developmental and technical assistance of 1 billion for the project What is the problem in integrating electricity generated from renewable energy to conventional power grids? The problem is Voltage Fluctuations. The conventional grids face difficulty in absorbing renewable electricity because of its varying voltage and supply. The planned transmission system would be made dynamic to handle the variations leading to an integrated grid across the nation. What is the current status of electricity generation in India? At present, India has 27,541.71 MW of installed renewable capacity excluding hydro power stations. The country has a total installed capacity is of 2,23,625.60 MW.

Gold nanoparticles to aid efficient drug delivery and diagnostics


May 27th, 2013

Scientists from Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT),Hyderabad, have synthesized ecofriendly gold nanoparticles using bio-resources which could be used as carriers for delivering anticancer drugs and also for diagnosing the disease. How it was done? Scientists used leaves of some herbal plants like Bhringaraj ( Eclipta alba ) to extract the biocompatible nanoparticles. This plant extract contains some anti-cancer bio-molecules which are conjugated with gold nanoparticles during synthesis. How it can help? The gold nanoparticle is bio-compatible, easy to synthesise and multiple cancer drugs could be loaded. It could reduce the toxicity of the anti-cancer drug, increase its efficacy and ensure better retention of the drug in the blood system. When conjugated with gold nanoparticle, the anti-cancer drug could stay for more time in the tumour and enhance the therapeutic efficacy.

Kerala against creation of buffer zone in any populated area suggested in Western Ghats Report
May 13th, 2013

Kerala Cabinet will oppose declaration of any populated area on the Western Ghats in the State as ecologically sensitive area. The Kerala government clarified that it was not opposed to protection ofenvironment or buffer zones. However, it wanted the buffer zone to be brought down to zero kilometers, if the area is populated. Depending on the presence of population, the buffer zone should be zero to 12 kmfrom the sensitive area. Western Ghats Report: Background:

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The Western Ghats was declared as an ecological hotspot in 1988. A large number of plants, amphibians, birds, reptiles, mammals are endemic to this region. This area has a number of protected areas including 2 biosphere reserves, 14 national parks and several wild life sanctuaries. Besides, many regions are declared as reserve forests. In recent times, due to anthropogenic pressures the intactness of the Western Ghats is getting fragmented day-by-day. Most of the ecosystem, which is outside protected area is now in danger. The habitat of plants and animals is also threatened due to large-scale deforestation and destruction of forests. Initially, the report on Western Ghats was prepared by the committee led by ecologist Madhav Gadgil that had called for declaring the entire Western Ghats as an Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA). Following this, a high-level working group headed by Planning Commissionmember K Kasturirangan was set up to analyze the suggestions made by the Gadgil panel. It stipulated the following key recommendations: Only 37% of the biodiversity-rich Western Ghats about 60,000 sq km of the total 1,64,000 sq km spread over the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadube notified as Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA). Blanket ban on mining, quarrying, sand mining, setting up thermal power projects, townships and area development projects in the 60,000 sq km area, along with a cautious approach to setting up hydropower units. It identified close to 60 % of the Western Ghats region as cultural landscape, dominated by human settlements,agriculture and plantations. It has not recommended any regulatory mechanism for this area. The remaining 41% of the area has been classified as natural landscape, of which 37% is biologically rich, containing protected areas, world heritage sites, tiger and elephant corridors. Declare 22 ESAs in Kerala with buffer zone of 12 km. Mining moratorium in Sindhudurg and Ratnagiri districts of Maharashtra as they are ESAs. Athirappilly hydropower project in Kerala: The proposed project must be revaluated in terms of generation of energy and whether the plant load factor makes it viable against the loss of local populations of some species. The Gadgil report had opposed the project. 200 MW Gundya hydropower project in Karnataka: With the project being located in the ESA, the working group advised extreme caution, including re-assessment of the ecological flow in the downstream areas, local damage to all forests and how it can be mitigated. The Gadgil report had opposed the project. What is a buffer zone in the context of environment protection? A buffer zone is created to enhance the protection of areas under management for their biodiversity importance. The buffer zone of a protected area may be situated around the periphery of the region or may be a connecting zone within it which links two or more protected areas, therefore increasing their dynamics and conservation productivity. A buffer zone is intended to avert the effect of negative environmental or human influences, whether or not it embodies great natural or cultural value itself. What is ESA?

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Ecologically Sensitivity is the ability of a landscape to cope with environmental stresses stresses like various human induced developments and their impacts; future impacts due to climate change; essentially the ecological resilience and how it might vary from landscape to landscape. ESA for Western Ghats: An ecological sensitive area (ESA) is a bio-climatic unit (as demarcated by entire landscapes) in the Western Ghats wherein human impacts have locally caused irreversible changes in the structure of biological communities (as evident in number/ composition of species and their relative abundances) and their natural habitats What is the difference b/w ESAs and Protected Areas? Protected areas in contrast to ESAs: Extensive, standard, heavy and rigid restrictions, no scope for adaptive management, largely focused on flagship species and their habitats, leaves out small, unique habitats. ESAs may have protected areas embedded in them, of various extents, could focus on small special habitats, flexible, adaptive regime of regulation for eg: example whole Himachal Pradesh and Sikkim.

Acidification on the rise in Arctic Ocean


May 12th, 2013

As per a new scientific report, the concentration of carbon dioxide in the Arctic Ocean is rapidly escalating which is making its water more acidic. It was assessed by the Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme (AMAP) that the ocean chemistry of the region is undergoing widespread changes. What is Ocean Acidification? Ocean acidification is the name given to the ongoing decrease in the pH of the Earths oceans, caused by the uptake of anthropogenic carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. About 3040% of the carbon dioxide released by humans into the atmosphere dissolves into the oceans, rivers and lakes. To maintain chemical equilibrium, some of it reacts with the water to form carbonic acid. Some of these extra carbonic acid molecules react with a water molecule to give a bicarbonate ion and a hydronium ion, thus increasing the oceans acidity (H+ ion concentration). Absorbed CO2 in seawater (H2O) forms carbonic acid (H2CO3), lowering the waters pH level and making it mo re acidic

Government mulls to ban trade of peacock feathers


May 9th, 2013

The government is considering banning the trade of peacock feathers to protect the national bird. The population of peacock is said to be declining because of its poaching for feathers, which fetch a good price in national and international markets. In 1991, World Wide Fund for nature had revealed that India was left with only 50% of the total peacock population that existed at the time of Independence. As per experts, the number has come down further since 1991 because of habitat loss and poaching.

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Vice-President inaugurates iCED in Jaipur
May 9th, 2013

Vice-President of India Hamid Ansari inaugurated the InternationalCentre for Environment Audit and Sustainable Development (iCED)in Kant Kalwar on the outskirts of Jaipur, Rajastahan. About iCED It is Rs 250 crore mega project commissioned by the CAG of India, after the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI) chose India as the centre for imparting environmental and sustainable development audit. It is amongst the first government buildings in India to have a 5 star green rating as per Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment norms. The project, spread over 16.5 acres, has been developed on the GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment)principles and is based on the sustainable design concept. The Institute aims to harness Indias expertise in conducting over a 100 environment audits in the last 20 years to provide extensive training and an international forum for experience sharing in this field. iCED is also the Global Training Facility for The International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions which is an organization of Supreme Audit Institutions worldwide.

Supreme Court allows the functioning of Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant


May 9th, 2013

The apex court has allowed the functioning of Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNP) with a view of safe and secure plant by issuing 15 guidelines on commissioning, safety, security and environmental issues. Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant is a nuclear power station in Koodankulam in Tamil Nadu with a capacity of generating 2000 MW with 2 reactors but this was agitated by Anti- Nuclear activists due to fear of radiation and Fukushima nuclear disaster occurred in Japan in 2011. Advantages of KNPP Its a technologically proven design, Inbuilt safety features to minimize the risk of any radiation leaks, The location is least earthquake prone area, Its height ensures safety from potential tsunamis. Issues raised in protests The coolant water and low-grade waste from the KKNPP are going to be dumped in to the sea which will have a severe impact on fish production and affect the food security of southern Tamil Nadu and southern Kerala. Functioning of KKNP will remit Iodine 131, 132, 133, Cesium 134, 136, 137 isotopes, strontium, tritium, tellurium and other such radioactive particles into air, land, crops, cattle, sea, seafood and ground water which in turn lead to risk of diseases and defective births.

Fact Box: Top 15 countries with gigantic Oil Reserves


May 6th, 2013

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Following sanctions over Iran on its oil-trade, oil prices have experienced volatility. Many fear that it would lead to high oil prices. However, Saudi Arabia has said that it would raise oil supply to keep the oil prices low but many doubt that the kingdom has as much oil as it claims. As per a report by UBS, global oil reserves stand at 1.38 trillion barrels and are expected to last another 46.2 years. Below are the summary of key data from the report which ranked 15 countries with the highest oil reserves along with their oil supply and the years of remaining reserves. Note: The data in parenthesis represents the percent of global reserves and global supply.

Rank

Country

Oil Reserves

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15.

Saudi Arabia Venezuela Iran Iraq Kuwait UAE RussiaFederation Libya Kazakhstan Nigeria Canada USA Qatar China Brazil

265 billion barrels (19.1%) 211 billion barrels (15.3%) 137 billion barrels (9.9%) 115 billion barrels (8.3%) 102 billion barrels (7.3%) 98 billion barrels (7.1%) 77 billion barrels (5.6%) 46 billion barrels (3.4%) 40 billion barrels (2.9%) 37 billion barrels (2.7%) 32 billion barrels (2.3%) 31 billion barrels (2.2%) 26 billion barrels (1.9%) 15 billion barrels (1.1%) 14 billion barrels (1%)

Years of remaining reserves 11.75 million Barrels 72.4 years daily (13.2%) 2.47 million Barrels 234.1 years daily (2.8%) 4.13 million Barrels 88.4 years (4.7%) 2.7 million Barrels 128.1 years daily (3.1%) 2.75 million Barrels 110.9 years daily (3.1%) 3.23 million Barrels 94.1 years daily (3.6%) 10.33 million Barrels 20.6 years daily (11.6%) 834,000 barrels 76.7 years (0.9%) 1.61 million Barrels 62.1 years daily (1.8%) 2.4 million Barrels 42.4 years daily (2.7%) 3.92 million Barrels 26.3 years daily (4.4%) 10.59 million Barrels 11.3 years daily (11.9%) 1.64 million Barrels 45.2 years daily (1.9%) 4.19 million Barrels a 9.9 years day (4.7%) 2.8 million Barrels a 18.3 years day (3.2%)

Oil Supply

Bombay HC directs Maharashtra govt to release water into Jayakwadi dam


May 2nd, 2013

Bombay High Court has ordered the Maharashtra government to release water from upstream reservoirs into the Jayakwadi dam in the region.

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Jayakwadi dam The Jaikawadi project is a large irrigation and multipurpose project. Its water is used primarily to irrigate agricultural land in the drought-prone Marathwada region of the state. Provides water for drinking and industrial usage to nearby towns and villages and to the municipalities and industrial areas of Aurangabad and Jalna district. Jayakwadi dam is located on Godavari river at the site of Jayakawadi village in Paithan taluka of Aurangabad district in Maharashtra state of India. What is the issue? The dam was not getting sufficient water to meet the needs of surrounding regions. According the state government it was facing practical difficulties in conveying the water to the Jayakwadi dam and there was also low reserves in the upstream reservoirs. After the HC order the water would be released from the Karanjwan, Gangapur, Bhandardara and Mula dams in the Nashik and Ahmednagar districts.

EU to Restrict Bee-Harming Pesticides


May 2nd, 2013

The European Commission will restrict the use of Neonicotinoid chemicals in pesticides which is linked to reduce bee population by researchers. Neonicotinoid chemicals in pesticides are believed to harm bees and as per the European Commission they should be restricted to crops not attractive to bees and other pollinators What is a Neonicotinoid chemical? Neonicotinoid pesticides are new nicotine-like chemicals and act on the nervous systems of insects, with a lower threat to mammals and the environment. They are water soluble and hence are absorbed by soil which in turn make a plant toxic. Restricted Pesticides: Clothianidin Imidacloprid Thiamethoxam Objective this restriction: To control decline in bee population as it is believed that bees are responsible for pollinating around one-third of the worlds crop production. To protect bees which contribute over 22 Billion Euros annually to European agriculture.

Indias over one-fourth land hit by desertification: Report


April 30th, 2013

As per a recent report by the Environment Ministry submitted to theUnited Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, more than one-fourth of Indias geographical area is undergoing the process of desertification despite ongoing efforts to tackle the problem.

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Key findings of the Report: India which has a total geographic area of 328 million hectares is grappling with Desertification, Land Degradation and Drought (DLDD) on 7,91,475 sq km of the territory covering almost all states and union territories of the country. The total area undergoing the process of land degradation in the country is estimated at 105.48 million hectares, which forms 32.07% of Indias total land. Major challenges remain in the area of land use planning, management of waste and degraded land, and efficient use of water resources. India has drylands area of 228.3 million hectares (about 69.6% of total area). A number of measures have been taken through different channels like Integrated Watershed Management Programme, National Rural Drinking Water Programme, MNREGA, National Rural Livelihood Mission, Green India Mission to address the problem. What is Desertification? Desertification is a type of land degradation in which a relatively dry land region becomes increasingly arid, typically losing its bodies of water as well as vegetation and wildlife. What are the causes of desertification? There are a number of factors which work individually or in combination causing desertification. The immediate cause is the removal of most vegetation. This is driven by a number of factors such as: Drought Climatic shifts Tillage for agriculture Overgrazing Deforestation for fuel or construction materials

Expert committee: exact co-relation between radiation of communication towers and health of wildlife is so far not established
April 26th, 2013

In August 2010 an expert committee under the chairmanship of Dr. Asad Rahmani (Director Bombay Natural Society) was constituted by Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) to study the probable effects of communication towers on wildlife including Birds and Bees. The Expert committee submitted it report to the MoEF. The key findings of the report were as follows: The report confirmed that the EMRs (Electro-Magnetic Radiations) from the mobile phone and communication towers have an adverse effect on the health of human beings. The precise co-relation between EMR and health of wildlife is so far not established. Albeit existent literature describes undesirable effects of EMR on the biological systems of living beings, more research is called for to evaluate the proper affects of EMR on free-living floral and faunal species, including birds and bees in India.

Supreme Court cancels Karnatakas all 49 mining leases


April 25th, 2013

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All 49 leases for iron ore extraction in category C mines in Bellary, Tumkur and Chitradurga districts of Karnataka have been cancelled by the Supreme Court. However, the Supreme Court has permitted resumption of activity in mines with lesser illegalities as recommendations made by Central Empowered Committee (CEC) since July 2011 on the mining issues in Karnataka. The CEC had categorized the mines in the area in three categories A, B and C. Category A: Mines in these areas have least or no irregularities. Category C: Mines in these areas have maximum irregularities. The Supreme Court, whilst admitting most of the recommendations made by CEC, held that unlawful iron ore mining on the Andhra-Karnataka border would continue suspended till the separation of boundary between the two states is finished. The unlawfulnesses referred to included unlawful mining activities, allotment of enormous quantities of iron ore at throw-away prices to private companies and an boost in rates at which iron ore was rendered to some other companies.

Fact Box: K. Kasturirangan High-Level Working Group


April 18th, 2013

K. Kasturirangan-led 10-member panel High-Level Working Group (HLWG) Presented its report on Western Ghats to MoEF (Ministry ofEnvironment and Forests) K. Kasturirangan-led 10-member panel High-Level Working Group (HLWG) has prepared a report on Western Ghats which suggests for ban on development activities in 60,000 sq km ecologically sensitive area spread over Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Goa, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Objective: K.Kasturirangan panel was formed to study and advise Govt on the earlier report of ecologist Madhav Gadgil-led Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP). Some Facts: Around 37% of the total area defined as the boundary of the Western Ghats is ecologically sensitive. This area is of about 60,000 sq km and it spreads over the states of Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. What were the key suggestions made by the K. Kasturirangan led HLWG? K.Kasturirangan panel has moved away from the suggestions of the Gadgil panel. The HLWG has suggested a prohibitive regimen on those activities which have the most interference and harmful impact on the environment. The report notes, environmentally sound development cannot preclude livelihood and economic options for this region the answer (to the question of how to manage and conserve the Ghats) will not lie in removing these economic options, but in providing better incentives to move them towards greener and more sustainable practices. Promotion of Ecotourism along the ecologically-volatile Western Ghats to preserve the depleting natural wealth of the area Economically empower the local population Incentivize green growth in the Western Ghats i.e. supervising forests and bettering their productivity to ascertaininclusive growth and economical gains for local communities ; integrating forest accounts into state and national economic assessments; initiating an ecosystem service fund to help villages around the forests; promotingsustainable agriculture and; encouraging ecotourism for local benefits.

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Establish a Decision Support and Monitoring Centre forGeospatial Analysis and Policy Support in the Western Ghats, which will supervise changes and propose state government on policy reform and all such reports must be in the public domain. High-resolution map, delimiting ecologically sensitive areas, down to each village settlement, must be put in the public domain so that people can be involved in taking decisions about environment. The HLWG report draws upon the basic framework suggested by WGEEP to use remote sensing technologies to demarcate the ecologically sensitive areas of the Western Ghats but with two key differences:First: it used satellite data, down to 24 m resolution, as against 9 km used by WGEEP. This finer resolution was possible because of the collaboration with NRSC/ISRO, which used datasets to distinguish vegetation types over the landscape of the entire Western Ghats. Second: it distinguishes between the cultural and the natural landscape of the region. Using remote sensing technology, it has found that the cultural landscape which includes human settlements, agricultural fields and plantations covers 58.44% of the region. The natural landscape ranges over the remaining 41.56 %. Thus, HLWG has moved away from the suggestions of the Expert Panel, which had recommended a blanket approach consisting of guidelines for sector-wise activities, which would be permitted in the ecologically sensitive zones. What were the key suggestions made by the Madhav Gadgil led WGEEP earlier? Earlier, the WGEEP had suggested that: Entire Western Ghats be declared as an ecologically sensitive area. 3 levels of categorization for the regulatory measures for protection would be imposed. Establishment of the Western Ghats Ecology Authority for management of the Ghats. A blanket approach comprising of road map for sector-wise activities, which could be permitted in the ecologically sensitive zones.

Supreme Court orders transfer of some Asiatic Lions from Gujarats Gir to MPs Kuno
April 17th, 2013

The Supreme Court directed concerned organizations to forest to in Madhya Pradeshs Kuno wildlife sanctuary.

shift Asiatic

lions from Gujarats

Gir

The Supreme Court rejected Gujarat governments plea against trans -location of lions as Gujarat held that these animals were pride of Gujarat. Whilst, Madhya Pradesh in 2012 had sought translocation of lions to Kuno Palpur sanctuary, laying claim it has the entire means to ensure pleasantsounding environment to the endangered species. The number of lions to be transferred would be decided by a group of wildlife experts. At present there are approx. 400 Asiatic lions in Gujarats Gir sanctuary.

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Under its Rs 300 crore Cheetah Reintroduction Programme, the MoEF (Ministry of Environment and Forests) had proposed the introduction of the African Cheetahs in India. Why a re-allocation of lions from Gujarat to Madhya Pradesh? 92 Asiatic lions have died, including 83 of natural death, in the past two years in Gujarats Saurashtra region while there has been no case of poaching. Thus, Conservationists had also advocated the establishing of a second sanctuary outside Gujarat to ascertain genetic variegation. Wildlife experts had also warned that the Gir sanctuary is getting crowded now, making the lions more susceptible to disease. Due to crowding in Gir sanctuary in Gujarat, there is small fresh territory for young males to claim, enhancing probabilities for inbreeding, territorial conflict or males killing the young ones. The Supreme Court also held that this was done in order to ensure that the entire endangered species is not wiped out in an epidemic or a fire.

Biogas plant commissioned on the Kerala Government Secretariat campus


March 31st, 2013

Bio Flame-Biogas and Energy Pvt. Ltd. installed a biogas plant on the Government Secretariat campus in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. The plant can process up to 100 kg of biowaste an hour and produce eight to 10 kg equivalent of fuel. The fuel generated from the plant will be used for cooking and the slurry directed into the garden as manure.

Great Indian one-horned Rhinoceros population rises in Kaziranga: Census


March 29th, 2013

As per the latest census, the Great Indian one-horned Rhinoceros population in the Kaziranga National Park (KNP) - world heritage site has seen a rise. There number rose by 39 from previous 2,290 to 2329 at present. In 1999, the figure was 1,672, which increased to 2,048 in 2009.

2013 designated as the UN International Year of Water Cooperation by UNGA


March 29th, 2013

Subsequent to a proposal initiated by Tajikistan, in 2010 UN General Assembly (UNGA) declared 2013 as the UNInternational Year of Water Cooperation via its resolution : A/RES/65/154. UN-Water has asked UNESCO to lead the initiative keeping in view of the UNESCOs multi-dimensional potency in the region of natural and social sciences, culture, educationand communication, and its substantial and long-standing contribution to the management of the worlds freshwater resources. What is the objective of designating 2013 as International Year of Water Co-operation ? In assigning 2013 as the UN International Year of Water Cooperation, the UNGA has actually made out that cooperation is necessary to attain a balance between the various needs and priorities and share this valued resource equitably, using water as an instrument of peace. Encouraging water cooperation means an interdisciplinary approach bringing in cultural, educational and scientific factors, as well as religious, ethical, social, political, legal, institutional and economic dimensions. The UNGA designating March 22, 1993 as the first World Water Day.

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Each year, World Water Day highlights a specific aspect of freshwater.

Green Tribunal prohibits roads construction, cutting of trees in Aravallis


March 28th, 2013

The National Green Tribunal has ordered ban on construction of roads and cutting of trees in the Aravallis directing the parties concerned to restore the area to its original condition. The Tribunal also set up a three-member panel comprising Haryana Pollution Control Board environmental engineer, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate concerned and a senior forest officer to ensure execution of the order. What was the case? An applicant had filed a plea on violation of provisions of the notification issued by the Ministry of Environment and Forests on May 7, 1992 that prohibited certain activities in the Aravalli Hills in Gurgaon. As per the plea, illegal activities were being carried by marble traders and others on a particular khasra of Sikandarpur Ghosi village. The encroachers were felling trees, adversely affecting the environment. The Bench lambasted the Haryana administrative bodies for erring on their part in proper implementation of the provisions of the notification. It further ordered that each of the non-applicants would plant at least 50 trees and take care of them. It also directed demolition of all sheds of temporary or permanent nature within two weeks from the pronouncement of the order and restricted people from throwing debris at the site.

Fish with high cesium level found near Fukushima plant


March 19th, 2013

The Japanese utility that owns the tsunami-damaged nuclear power plant has found a record 740,000 becquerels per kilogram of radioactive cesium in a fish caught close to the plant. This level is 7,400 times higher than the Government limit for safe human consumption. Radiation was spread into the surroundings of the Fukushima nuclear plant after it was damaged in the March 11, 2011, earthquake and tsunami. Most fish along the Fukushima coast are barred from market.

Fact Box: CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species)


March 17th, 2013

CITES concludes, eight nations escape sanctions The 16th meeting of the Conference of Parties to CITES (Convention onInternational Trade in Endangered Species), concluded in Bangkok,Thailand, after granting better protection to hundreds of threatened animal and plant species. The eight countries accused of failing to do enough to tackle the illegal trade in elephant ivory escaped sanctions. The conference found thatKenya, Tanzania and Uganda, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam, and top markets China and Thailand are making insufficient efforts to curb the trade. However, the nations avoided sanctions after 6 of them submitted draft action plans in response and China and Tanzania committed to do so by a specific date. Possible punishment option: Under the convention, member states can halt trading with offender countries in the 35,000 species covered by the convention.

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CITES CITES is (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) is also known as the Washington Convention. It is an international agreement b/w governments to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. Currently 178 nations are members of CITES, Headquarter in Geneva, Switzerland. CITES was drafted as a result of a resolution adopted in 1963 at a meeting of members of IUCN. It is an effort towards regulation of cross-border trade in wild animals and plants b/w countries to safeguard certain species from over-exploitation. It provides protection to more than 35,000 species of animals and plants. Although it is legally binding on all Parties to the agreement to implement the Convention, it does not take the place of national laws. Rather it provides a framework to be respected by each Party, which has to adopt its own domestic legislation to ensure that CITES is implemented at the national level.

North Island of New Zealand hit by worst drought in 30 years


March 15th, 2013

A drought has been announced in the entire North Island of New Zealand. The government has described it as the worst drought in 30 years spell. The capital Wellington is assumed to have just 18 days of water left, and parts of the South Island could expected to be hit.

Central assistance of Rs. 41 Crore to protect Pashmina Goats


March 15th, 2013

The Union Government will provide a financial assistance of Rs 41.21 crore to protect Pashmina goat which produces world-famous fine luxury fibre. The government is concerned over the recent deaths of thousands of Pashmina goats in the Ladakh region. As per the assistance, there is plan which envisages a new Pashmina Wool Development Scheme with a special package and a financial allocation of Rs 41.21 crore.

Compost Plant in New Delhi is first composting plant in India to get carbon credits from UNFCCC
March 6th, 2013

The composting plant in Okhla, New Delhi has become the first inIndia to receive the carbon credits from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The plant has received Rs 25 lakh as an advance against the Carbon Emission Reduction (CER) earnings from this plant. What are carbon credits? Carbon credit is a generic term for any tradable certificate or permit representing the right to emit One Tonne of Carbon dioxide or the mass of another greenhouse gas with a carbon dioxide equivalent equivalent to one tonne of carbon dioxide. The concept of carbon credits came into existence as a result of increasing awareness of the need for controlling emissions. The mechanism was formalized in the Kyoto Protocol, aninternational agreement between more than 170 countries, and the market mechanisms were agreed through the subsequent Marrakesh Accords. Carbon credit facility has been introduced with an aim to allow market mechanisms to drive industrial and commercial processes in the direction of low emissions or less carbon intensive approaches than

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those used when there is no cost to emitting carbon dioxide and other Green House Gases (GHGs) into the atmosphere. Since GHG mitigation projects generate credits, this approach can be used to finance carbon reduction schemes between trading partners and around the world. The carbon credits can also be traded on exchanges like Carbon Trade Exchange, which is like a stock exchange for carbon credits. If it is traded internationally then each transfer is validated by the UNFCCC. Exchanges trading Carbon Credits: Currently there are 5 exchanges trading in carbon allowances: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. The European Climate Exchange NASDAQ OMX Commodities Europe PowerNext Commodity Exchange Bratislava The European Energy Exchange

India, UK sign pact on boosting co-operation in Earth Sciences


March 3rd, 2013

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed b/w India and UK to strengthen their cooperation inEarth Sciences and environmental research by sharing information on meteorology, hydrology and climate variability. The MoU was inked b/w the Earth System Science Organisation (ESSO) of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) Govt. of India andUKs Natural Environment Research Council (NERC). How would it help? It will help in improving the forecasting capability of various weather and climate related phenomena and natural hazards through sharing of knowledge, expertise and experience. About Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), Earth System Science Organization (ESSO) and Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) Continue reading

Fact Box: Environmental Performance Index (EPI)


March 1st, 2013

Delhi placed lowest in pollution survey Indias national capital Delhi has been ranked last in the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) evolved by the Planning Commissionwhich makes it worst performer in the country when it comes to all key environmental parameters. The city-state has slipped to 32nd in 2012 from 26th position in 2011. Delhi scored 0.4246 compared to 0.7696 achieved by top ranker, Andhra Pradesh. Environmental Performance Index Started by Planning Commission

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Objective: To measure of environmental well-being Analysis of data supplied by 35 states and union territories. Reflects states performance on 16 Green Indicators under 5 categories 5 Categories: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Air Pollution (nitrogen and sulfur oxides, respiratory SPM) Forest (total forest area, increase/decrease in forest cover, afforestation efforts) Water Quality (domestic waste water, surface water quality, ground water extraction) Waste management (municipal solid waste, biomedical and hazardous waste handling capacity) Climate change preparation (use of renewable sources of energy, mini hydro, electricity intensity of state GDP, disaster preparedness, energy efficiency) Who are the Best Performers? Andhra Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh andMaharashtra in the same order of ranking. How to look at scores? A score of one means the state is characterized by cleanerenvironment, sticks to environmental standards, implements all necessary legislations, has institutional mechanisms and is making efforts for conservation of natural resources. How would these results help? The results of the analysis are yet to be adopted formally by the Planning Commission and will be shared with National Development Council. If approved, additional weightage may be given to states based on EPI, while allocating resources to states. This may call for amendment to the Gagdil formula for allocation of central funds. The states not doing better on green issues could thus be motivated to improve. What is Gagdil Formula? The Gadgil formula was given by D.R. Gadgil, the social scientist and the first critic of Indian Planning. It was evolved in 1969 for determining the allocation of central assistance for state plans in India. Gadgil formula was adopted for distribution of plan assistance during Fourth and Fifth Five Year Plans. of states.

Fact Box: Dongria Kondh tribe


February 21st, 2013

MoEF justifies cancellation of environmental clearance to Vedanta The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) has held that its decision of cancellation of the environmental clearance granted toVedanta for the Lanjigarh Bauxite mining project in Odisha was right and that forest land cannot be diverted under the provisions of theScheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006. As per MoEF, the diversion of forest land on the proposed mining site of the Lanjigarh bauxite mining lease is violative of the fundamental rights of the Dongria Kondh tribals as well as the spirit of Forest

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Rights Act especially for the vulnerable tribal groups such as the Dongria Kondh and thus cannot be allowed for this reason alone. As per Govt. the Lanjigarh bauxite mining lease is located in Scheduled Areas as referred to in Clause (1) of Article 244 of the Constitution.Circumscribing or extinguishing of forest rights in such areas shall not be in conformity with the provisions of the clause-5 of the Fifth Schedule to the Constitution. About Dongria Kondh tribe: The Dongria Kondh, a primitive tribal group [now termed as particularly vulnerable tribe], has been protecting more than 7 sq. km. of the sacred undisturbed forests on top of the mountain, where the proposed mining lease area of the Lanjigarh bauxite mining lease is located. They consider the land and forests sacred to their deity. Diversion of these sacred areas for mining will undermine the customary rights of the Dongria Kondhs to protect their sacred places of worship and thereby amount to a violation of their fundamental right to manage their own affairs in the matter of religion and fundamental right to conserve theculture of their own. It was also in direct violation further of the specific provisions of the Forest Rights Act.

MoEF sets up committee to study legal cover for elephant habitats


February 15th, 2013

A panel has been set up by the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) with the objective to review how elephant reserves and corridors across the country can get a higher level of legal protection under existing green laws. Objective: The step has been taken comes after the National Board for Wildlife raised concerns about lack of legal cover for elephant reserves and corridors against changes in the vast landscapes that pachyderms occupy in the country. What are the problems faced by environment ministry to bring legal safeguards for Elephant habitats? What is the job assigned to the committee?

Thinning of Ozone has altered ocean circulation: Study


February 7th, 2013

As per a latest study, a hole in the Antarctic ozone layer has changed the way waters in the southern oceans mix, which researchers say could impact global climate change. As per scientists this phenomenon has the potential to alter the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere. It has been found that subtropical intermediate waters in the southern oceans have become "younger" as the upwelling, circumpolar waters have gotten "older" changes that are consistent with the fact that surface winds have strengthened as the ozone layer has thinned. How is it important? How did the researchers found this?

Rare Whooper Swan spotted after 113 years in Himachal


February 7th, 2013

Rare migratory bird Whooper Swan was spotted inPong Dam lake of Kangra valley in Himachal Pradesh after 113 years. Whooper Swans, which migrate from Central Asia and Europe and are rare migrants to India, were last seen in the country in 1900 near river Beas.

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PMO forms executive panel on implementing the 8 missions of the NAPCC
February 6th, 2013

A secretary level committee has been constituted by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to assist the PMs council on climate change in implementing the 8 missions of the National Action Plan of Climate Change (NAPCC). The absence of Inter-ministerial coordination has crippled the implementation of the missions resulting in the setting up of the executive panel on climate change to be headed by principal secretary to Prime Minister Pulok Chatterji. What is the job of the panel? The committee will regularly monitor the implementation of the eight missions, other climate change initiatives and advise the Prime Ministers council on modifications in the objectives, strategies and structure of the missions. The Prime Ministers council on climate change was formed in 2007, in order to co-ordinate national action for assessment, adaptation and mitigation of climate change. What is NAPCC and what are its 8 missions?

Green Kumbh Mela


February 1st, 2013

A new campaign called Green Kumbh is going hand in hand with the onging Maha Kumbh Mela in Allahabad. The green initiative which is being lead by Swami Chidanand Saraswati of Parmarth Niketan, Rishikesh who is also the force behind the Clean Ganga campaign, is being volunteered by hundreds of participants from around 45 countries. Objective: The initiative is designed to beautify the grounds of Kumbh and its environs, while protecting the health and well-being of festival attendees. Besides, this program will spread awareness and educationabout the importance of being green, thus informing and motivating festivals -goers from all over the world to become stewards of theenvironment around them. Under this campaign various programs like tree plantation, providing free eco friendly toilets, and solid waste management are being organized at Kumbh Mela and its surroundings.

Panna Tiger Reserve of MP undergoes vulture population estimation


January 30th, 2013

The Vulture Population Estimation-2013 has been concluded in thePanna Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh.Counting found 867 vultures including 160 migratory and 48 of unidentified origins. The number of vultures found this year is less compared to last year. The reason could be the sudden increase in temperature in the area during the estimation week. Seven out of nine vulture species in the Indian sub-continent were found in Panna. Another survey will be conducted in April-May 2013 to assess success rate of vulture breeding in Panna Tiger Reserve. Vulture Population Estimation Vulture Population Estimation is being conducted in Panna Tiger Reserve annually in January since 2010. It is carried out with public private participation with the co-operation of bird watchers from

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across the country. Various species of vultures include Long Billed Vultures, White Backed Vultures, Egyptian Vultures and Red-headed Vultures. The migratory vultures found during the estimation were European Griffon, Himalayan Griffon and vultures of cinereous species. It is being considered to include Paragrin spies of vulture also in the Vulture Population Estimation next year.

National Green Tribunal orders halt to all constructions going in Noida and Greater Noida
January 20th, 2013

The National Green Tribunal has ordered an interim injunction on all the construction activities running in Noida and Greater Noida. Why this ban? The Tribunal noticed that construction activities have violated environmental standards as it will require huge underground water drawing for construction which will further deplete and pollute water table in this area which has already gone down tremendously. The Tribunal also noted that the underground water used by builders for construction hardly re-percolates into earth for the fact that it is a tree-free zone, has a concrete base, and water largely is wasted as it flows into the drains. The constructions have also violated the guidelines by the Central Ground Water Authority and builders had no proof of receiving environmental clearance from the state government as it is necessary for builders who are raising the construction of 20,000 square metres and above to take environmental clearance under the relevant rules from the State Government.

Air pollution in Beijing reaches to dangerous levels


January 20th, 2013

A yellow alert was issued by Chinese meteorological authority indicating dangerous levels of smog in Chinas northern and western regions, including major cities like Beijing and Chengdu. The density of PM2.5 particulates had surpassed 700 micrograms per cubic meter in many parts of the city, much above than the daily safety level of 25 micrograms per cubic meter as considered by the World HealthOrganization. What is PM2.5? PM is the short of Particulate Matter which describes condensed phase (solid or liquid) particles suspended in the atmosphere. Their potential for causing health problems is directly associated with the size of the particles. As per WHO standards, PM less than 2.5 m in diameter (PM2.5), are more closely linked to adverse health effects than other metrics such as PM10 (particles with a diameter less than 10 m).

Source of Iodine oxide gas responsible for destruction of ozone over oceans identified
January 17th, 2013

Scientists at the University of York and Leeds in Britain have established that the majority of ozonedepleting gas iodine oxide observed over the remote ocean comes from a previously unknown marine source. As per researchers, the main source of iodine oxide can be explained by emissions of hypoiodous acid (HOI) a gas not yet considered as being released from the ocean along with a contribution from molecular iodine.

MoEF asks all states to declare eco sensitive zones around national parks, sanctuaries by Feb 15, 2013
January 15th, 2013

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The Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) has set the February 15, 2013 as deadline for all states to submit site-specific proposals declaring eco sensitive zones around national parks and sanctuaries. A decade back, the National Board for Wildlife had envisaged declaring areas within 10 km of the boundary of national parks and sanctuaries as eco-sensitive zones.

MP identifies 17 eco-sensitive zones around sanctuaries


January 10th, 2013

The state forest department of Madhya Pradesh has identified 17 eco-sensitive zones around its wild life sanctuaries and parks, where illegal commercial activities including mining will be prohibited. The department has approved a site specific proposal of identifying eco sensitive zones around Kanha National Park (Mandla), Pench National Park (Seoni), Bandhavgarh National Park (Umaria), Panna National Park (Panna) and Kuno Palpur sanctury (Seopur) among others. Madhya Pradesh has 8 national parks and 25 wildlife sanctuaries. Why this move? The decision by the MP govt has come after the Ministry of Environmentand Forests to send a site specific proposal to identify eco sensitive zone. After it is approved by the cabinet, the state government would send the proposal to the Environment Ministry which would declare the eco sensitive zones. What is an eco-sensitive zone and what are the norms under it? Eco-sensitive zone is land falling within 10 km of a park or sanctuary. As per norms, commercial activities and other activities harmful to environment like setting up of industries, hotels and resorts, mining activities among others will be prohibited.

ICT industry produces 830 million tonnes of CO2


January 10th, 2013

As per a latest report published in journal Environmental Science & Technology, Internet and other components of information communication and technology (ICT) industry annually produces more than 830 million tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2), the main greenhouse gas, and is likely to double by 2020. How does ICT industry produce CO2? that the information communications and technology (ICT) industry, which delivers Internet, video, voice and other cloud services accounts for around 2% of global CO2 emissions which is equivalent to what emitted by the aviation industry. The calculation for CO2 emission was done by taking into account the data traffic, energy use and CO2 production in networks and other elements of the ICT industry. How it can be controlled? Introduction and use of more efficient power usage of facilities, more efficient use of energy-efficient equipment and renewable energy sources are three major ways to slash ICT emissions of CO2.

West Antarctic Ice Sheet warming rapidly


January 1st, 2013

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As per a new study, the western part of Antarctica is experiencing nearly twice as much warming as previously thought. The temperature record from Byrd Station, a scientific outpost in the center of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS), recorded a marked increase of 4.3 degrees Fahrenheit (2.4 degrees Celsius) in average annual temperature since 1958 that is, three times faster than the average temperature rise around the globe. This finding places West Antarctica among the fastestwarming regions on Earth. Its melting currently contributes 0.3 mm to sea level rise each year second to Greenland, whose contribution to sea level rise has been estimated as high as 0.7 mm per year. What is Byrd Station? It is an important scientific outpost in the center of the WAIS which is the indicator of climate change throughout the region. It is located some 700 miles from the South Pole and near the center of the WAIS.

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