INSTA PT 2024 Exclusive Environment

INSTA PT 2024
EXCLUSIVE
ENVIRONMENT
MAY 2023 – JANUARY 2024
INSTA PT 2024 EXCLUSIVE (ENVIRONMENT)
NOTES
Table of Contents
Government Programmes / Initiatives .......................................................................... 5
1. NATIONAL CLEAN AIR PROGRAMME (NCAP) ........................................................................... 5
2. INDIAN FOREST & WOOD CERTIFICATION SCHEME (IFWCS) .................................................... 5
3. 'CLEAN & GREEN VILLAGES' PROGRAMME .............................................................................. 6
4. ATAL BHUJAL YOJANA............................................................................................................. 7
5. GREEN WAR ROOM ................................................................................................................ 7
6. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) ........................................................................ 8
7. OPERATION “KACHCHHAP”..................................................................................................... 9
8. ECO MARK SCHEME................................................................................................................ 9
9. WILDLIFE PROTECTION ACT, 1972 .......................................................................................... 9
10. PEOPLE’S BIODIVERSITY REGISTER .................................................................................... 10
Animal / Wildlife Protection ....................................................................................... 11

1. HIMALAYAN WOLF ............................................................................................................... 11
2. PUNGANUR COWS ............................................................................................................... 11
3. ELUSIVE BINTURONG AND THE SMALL-CLAWED OTTER ........................................................ 11
4. VULTURE RESTAURANT IN JHARKHAND ................................................................................ 12
5. MALABAR PIED HORNBILL .................................................................................................... 12
6. PAKKE PAGA HORNBILL FESTIVAL.......................................................................................... 13
7. KUMKI ELEPHANTS ............................................................................................................... 13
8. ALPINE IBEXES ...................................................................................................................... 14
9. PROJECT NILGIRI TAHR ......................................................................................................... 14
10. BUDGETT’S FROG ............................................................................................................. 15
11. DE-EXTINCTION OF DODO................................................................................................. 16
12. MELANISTIC TIGERS .......................................................................................................... 16
13. GHOL AS THE GUJRAT’S STATE FISH .................................................................................. 17
14. OLIVE RIDLEY .................................................................................................................... 17
15. LEATHERBACK TURTLES .................................................................................................... 18
16. ASIATIC WILD DOG-TIGER COEXISTENCE ........................................................................... 18
17. AMAZON RIVER DOLPHINS................................................................................................ 18
18. GLOBAL DECLARATION FOR RIVER DOLPHINS.................................................................... 18
19. GHARIALS ......................................................................................................................... 19
20. GIR COW BREED ............................................................................................................... 20
21. CHEETAH .......................................................................................................................... 21
22. ALL-INDIA TIGER ESTIMATION 2022 .................................................................................. 22
23. SEA LIONS AND ALGAE BLOOM ......................................................................................... 22
24. PENCH TIGER RESERVE (PTR) ............................................................................................ 23
25. DARJEELING ZOO .............................................................................................................. 23
26. CHINNAR WILDLIFE SANCTUARY ....................................................................................... 25
27. ANAMALAI TIGER RESERVE ............................................................................................... 25
28. PANGOLAKHA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY ................................................................................ 26
29. VALMIKI TIGER RESERVE (VTR) .......................................................................................... 27
30. PONG DAM WILDLIFE SANCTUARY .................................................................................... 27
31. NEORA VALLEY NATIONAL PARK ....................................................................................... 27
32. KAMBALAKONDA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY ........................................................................... 27
33. NANDANKANAN ZOOLOGICAL PARK (NZP) ........................................................................ 28
34. WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES IN NEWS ..................................................................................... 29
35. NUGU WILDLIFE SANCTUARY ............................................................................................ 29
36. DANDELI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY ........................................................................................ 30
37. AMANGARH TIGER RESERVE ............................................................................................. 30
38. PERIYAR TIGER RESERVE (PTR) .......................................................................................... 31
www.insightsonindia.com 1 InsightsIAS
NOTES
39. KERALA'S ARALAM WILDLIFE SANCTUARY ......................................................................... 31
40. LEMRU ELEPHANT CORRIDOR ........................................................................................... 31
41. RANTHAMBORE TIGER RESERVE (RTR) .............................................................................. 32
42. POBITORA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY...................................................................................... 32
43. MEASURES FOR THE PROTECTION OF MARINE SPECIES ..................................................... 33
44. DIEL VERTICAL MIGRATION (DVM) .................................................................................... 34
45. ESTIVATION ...................................................................................................................... 34
46. REGULATING CAPTIVE BREEDING OF EXOTIC ANIMALS ..................................................... 34
47. CENTRAL ASIAN FLYWAY (CAF).......................................................................................... 35
Environment Protection .............................................................................................. 36

1. BIOSPHERE RESERVES ........................................................................................................... 36
2. HUMBOLDT’S ENIGMA ......................................................................................................... 38
3. THE OLDEST EVIDENCE OF PHOTOSYNTHESIS ....................................................................... 38
4. ARTIFICIAL REEFS IN KERALA ................................................................................................. 39
5. CORAL REEF ......................................................................................................................... 40
6. CORAL REEF BREAKTHROUGH............................................................................................... 40
7. MARINE CLOUD BRIGHTENING ............................................................................................. 41
8. NATURE-BASED SOLUTIONS ................................................................................................. 41
9. SELF-POLLINATION ............................................................................................................... 41
10. GREEN LEAF VOLATILE ...................................................................................................... 42
11. WATERMEAL .................................................................................................................... 42
12. CLOUD SEEDING ............................................................................................................... 43
13. MICROALGAE ................................................................................................................... 43
14. AMAZON RAINFOREST ...................................................................................................... 44
15. KELP FORESTS................................................................................................................... 44
16. TIPPING POINTS................................................................................................................ 45
17. ECOLOGICAL NICHE .......................................................................................................... 46
18. LAKES ............................................................................................................................... 47
19. FOREST FIRES IN UTTARAKHAND....................................................................................... 47
20. BABOOL ........................................................................................................................... 48
21. WILD ORCHIDS OF NORTH BENGAL ................................................................................... 48
22. BAOBAB TREES ................................................................................................................. 49
Renewable Energy ...................................................................................................... 50

1. BIOHYDROGEN AND INDIA’S GREEN HYDROGEN PATHWAY .................................................. 50
2. BIOFUELS ............................................................................................................................. 50
3. SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUEL (SAF) BLEND ........................................................................... 51
Species Discovery / Species Sighted / Species Extinct .................................................. 52

1. BLUE DRAGON ..................................................................................................................... 52
2. NAMDAPHA FLYING SQUIRREL.............................................................................................. 52
3. MUSIC FROG ........................................................................................................................ 52
4. ATTENBOROUGH ECHIDNA ................................................................................................... 53
5. FISH THAT CAN CHANGE COLOUR - BADIS LIMAAKUMI ......................................................... 53
6. LAUGHING GULL................................................................................................................... 54
7. LESSER FLAMINGOS .............................................................................................................. 54
Pollution..................................................................................................................... 55
1. ACID RAIN ............................................................................................................................ 55
2. GREENHOUSE GASES (GHGS) ................................................................................................ 55
3. NOISE POLLUTION ................................................................................................................ 56
NOTES
4. MICRO PLASTICS................................................................................................................... 57
5. MERCURY CONTAMINATION ................................................................................................ 59
6. GREENWASHING .................................................................................................................. 59
7. HIRAKUND WETLAND ........................................................................................................... 60
8. PERSISTENT ORGANIC POLLUTANTS (POPS) .......................................................................... 60
9. LIGHT POLLUTION ................................................................................................................ 60
10. METHANE......................................................................................................................... 61
Climate Change........................................................................................................... 62
1. TROPICALISATION................................................................................................................. 62
2. CLIMATE CHANGE AND MIGRATORY SPECIES ........................................................................ 62
Events / Celebrations .................................................................................................. 63

1. WORLD SOIL DAY (WSD) ....................................................................................................... 63
2. EARTH OVERSHOOT DAY ...................................................................................................... 63
3. WORLD BIODIVERSITY DAY 2023 ........................................................................................... 63
4. INTERNATIONAL LEOPARD DAY 2023 .................................................................................... 64
Reports / Release ....................................................................................................... 65

1. GLOBAL COOLING WATCH 2023 ........................................................................................... 65
2. 2023 ADAPTATION GAP REPORT ........................................................................................... 65
International Efforts / Organisations ........................................................................... 66

1. BIO CREDITS ......................................................................................................................... 66
2. WETLAND CITY ACCREDITATION (WCA) ................................................................................ 66
3. GREEN FUELS ALLIANCE INDIA (GFAI).................................................................................... 67
4. ARCTIC REPORT CARD FOR 2023 ........................................................................................... 67
5. IUCN RED LIST UPDATION 2023 ............................................................................................ 68
6. 2024 IS THE INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF CAMELIDS ................................................................. 69
7. UNITED NATIONS FORUM ON FORESTS (UNFF) ..................................................................... 69
8. ALLIANCE FOR TRANSFORMATIVE ACTION ON CLIMATE AND HEALTH (ATACH) ..................... 70
9. SELF-DECLARATION OF FREEDOM FROM AVIAN INFLUENZA ................................................. 70
10. GLOBAL GREENHOUSE GAS WATCH .................................................................................. 71
11. INTERNATIONAL CLIMATE ACTION IN CIVIL AVIATION ....................................................... 71
12. INNOVATIVE FINANCE FACILITY FOR CLIMATE IN ASIA AND THE PACIFIC (IF-CAP) PROGRAM
71
Protocols / Conventions.............................................................................................. 73
1. IMPORTANT OUTCOMES OF COP28 ...................................................................................... 73
2. INDIA EXEMPTED FROM CITES RST ....................................................................................... 76
3. CONVENTION ON BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY (CBD) .................................................................... 77
4. UN BONN SUMMIT ............................................................................................................... 79
Miscellaneous............................................................................................................. 80
1. E-FUELS ................................................................................................................................ 80
2. SOIL-POWERED FUEL CELL .................................................................................................... 80
3. THYLAKOID MEMBRANES ..................................................................................................... 80
4. PLANTS "TALKING" TO EACH OTHER ..................................................................................... 81
5. SODA LAKE AND THE ORIGIN OF LIFE .................................................................................... 81
6. HEAVY FUEL OIL (HFO) .......................................................................................................... 81
7. EARLY WARNINGS FOR ALL ................................................................................................... 82
8. PRESSMUD ........................................................................................................................... 82
NOTES
9. ENVIRONMENTAL DNA ......................................................................................................... 83
10. KADALUNDI MUDFLAT ...................................................................................................... 83
11. GREEN ALGA PICOCYSTIS SALINARUM............................................................................... 83
12. COAL IN INDIA .................................................................................................................. 84
NOTES
Government Programmes / Initiatives
1. National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)
The Launch: In January 2019, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)
launched the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) to prepare clean air action plans.
The mandate of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP); –

1. Aim: It aims to improve air quality in 131 cities (non-attainment cities (NAC) and Million Plus
Cities) in 24 States by engaging all stakeholders.
2. The cities which are exceeding the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for 5
consecutive years are identified as NAC by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
3. Objective: To achieve reductions up to 40% of Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5)
concentrations by 2025-26, base year 2017.
4. Under NCAP, 132 non-attainment cities have been identified across the country based on
the Air Quality data from 2014-2018.
5. Preparation of the city-specific action plans including measures to strengthen the monitoring
network, reduce vehicular/industrial emissions, and increase public awareness.
6. Implementation of the city-specific action plans to be regularly monitored by Committees at
the Central and State level namely Steering Committee, Monitoring Committee and
Implementation Committee.
Objectives of NCAP
1. To augment and evolve effective and proficient ambient air quality monitoring networks
across the country to ensure a comprehensive and reliable database
2. To have efficient data dissemination and public outreach mechanisms for timely measures
for the prevention and mitigation of air pollution
3. To have a feasible management plan for the prevention, control and abatement of air
pollution.
2. Indian Forest & Wood Certification Scheme (IFWCS)

The Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change has introduced the Indian Forest &
Wood Certification Scheme to encourage sustainable forest management and agroforestry
practices in India.
What is sustainable forest management and agroforestry?

Sustainable Forest management involves the responsible and balanced use of forest resources
to meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own
needs.
Agroforestry is a land-use system that integrates trees or shrubs with crops or livestock on the
same piece of land. It combines agricultural and forestry practices to achieve environmental,
economic, and social benefits.
What is the Scheme about?

This national certification scheme comprises three types of certifications:
1. Forest management certification
2. Tree Outside Forest Management Certification
3. Chain of custody certification (to trace forest products)
Aim: It aims to provide market incentives for entities, including state forest departments,
farmers, and wood-based industries, adhering to responsible forest and agroforestry practices.
NOTES
The Forest Management certification is based on the Indian Forest Management Standard, and
a new Trees Outside Forests Standard has been introduced.
Applicability: IFWCS is applicable across the country, both in forest areas and TOF plantations on
government, private, agroforestry and other lands. Certification is applicable for both timber and
non-timber forest produce.
Nodal Agency: The scheme will be overseen by the Indian Forest and Wood Certification Council
(advisory), involving various stakeholders, and managed by the Indian Institute of Forest
Management (overall management of the scheme)
Working: Independent audits will be conducted by the National Accreditation Board for
Certification Bodies under the Quality Council of India to assess compliance with the scheme's
standards. Complying agencies will be given a third-party certification of compliance. Complying
individuals/agencies can then avail of available incentives based on their certification.
3. 'Clean & Green Villages' Programme

The Panchayati Raj Ministry is prioritizing 'Clean & Green Villages' for the expansion of solar
power capacities on a commercial basis.
What is the Clean and Green Villages programme?
NOTES
4. Atal Bhujal Yojana
5. Green war room

The Delhi government has launched a 'green war room' to combat air pollution in the city by
implementing the Winter Action Plan and monitoring pollution 24x7.
• Delhi faces severe air pollution, particularly during the winter months, due to various sources
such as vehicles, industry, construction activities, and stubble burning in neighbouring
states like Punjab and Haryana.
Features:
• The war room will be connected to a mobile application called the Green Delhi app,
emphasizing the importance of public participation in addressing the issue.
• The Delhi government will also launch an anti-dust campaign, to address sources of pollution
within the city.
• The Green Delhi app allows citizens to report pollution-related complaints, which will be
monitored by the green war room.
NOTES
6. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
The Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006, is the governing legal instrument
to grant green clearance for the establishment or expansion of an industry on the basis of the
expected environmental impact of the project.
Features of EIA Notification, 2006:

• The EIA Notification 2006 essentially attempted to decentralise power to the State
Government.
• Categorisation of projects
o The rules categorize the projects into two categories- A and B on the basis of the
magnitude of their scale and impact on the natural and artificial resources.
o The projects belonging to Category A require approval from the Ministry of
Environment and Forests on behalf of the Central Government, on the advice of an
Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC), constituted by the Central Government for this
specific purpose; eg. Construction or Expansion of Ports, harbours, airports, nuclear
power, and related projects, Primary metallurgical industries (iron, steel, copper, etc),
individual projects, etc.
o Projects and Activities falling under Category B require the approval of a State
Environmental Impact Assessment Authority (EIAA), based on the advice of a State
Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC), constituted under the said notification.
• Under this Notification, the environmental clearance process undergoes four stages, namely,
screening, scoping, public consultation, and appraisal stages.
• With further amendments, including in 2020, the EIA Notification underwent several changes
with some features meeting the objectives and some diluting the purpose.
NOTES
7. Operation “Kachchhap”
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) conducted a successful operation called
"Kachchhap,".
• This operation resulted in the recovery of the 955 live baby turtles, including species like the
Indian Tent Turtle, Indian Flapshell Turtle, Crown River Turtle, Black Spotted/Pond Turtle,
and Brown Roofed Turtle.
• The DRI had received intelligence about a syndicate engaged in the illegal trafficking and
trading of these turtles, some of which are considered vulnerable or near-threatened
species according to the IUCN Red List and are protected under the Wildlife (Protection)
Act, 1972.
This operation is part of the DRI's ongoing efforts to protect the environment and combat illegal
wildlife trafficking.
8. ECO Mark Scheme

ECO Mark Scheme was instituted by the Government of India for labeling of environment friendly
products. The Scheme is being administered by the Bureau of Indian Standards.
The Scheme covers various product categories like Soaps and Detergents, Paints, Food Items,
Lubricating Oils, Packing/Packaging Materials, Architectural Paints and Powder Coatings,
Batteries, Electrical and Electronic Goods, Food Additives, Wood Substitutes, Cosmetics, Aerosols
and Propellants, Plastic Products, Textiles, Fire-extinguisher, Leather and Coir & Coir Products.
The presence of ECO Logo along with ISI Mark on a product indicates that the product meets
certain Environmental criteria along with the Quality requirements as specified in the relevant
Indian Standard.
For implementation of the Scheme, BIS is responsible for the following functions:
• Renewal, Suspension and Cancellation of the Licence
• Undertaking Inspections and taking Samples for analysis of any material or sub¬stance in
relation to which the ECO Mark has been used.
To operate the Scheme, BIS has included additional requirements for ECO Mark in the concerned
Indian Standards. The terms and conditions governing operation of the Licence shall be as per the
Bureau of Indian Standards Act, Rules and the Regulations framed thereunder.
9. Wildlife Protection Act, 1972

• This Act provides for the protection of the Constitutional Provisions for Wildlife:
country’s wild animals, birds, and plant species, • The 42nd Amendment Act,
in order to ensure environmental and ecological 1976, Forests and Protection of
security. Among other things, the Act lays down Wild Animals and Birds was
restrictions on hunting many animal species. transferred from State to
• Its provisions paved the way for the formation Concurrent List.
of the Central Zoo Authority. This is the central • Article 51 A (g) of the
body responsible for the oversight of zoos in Constitution states that it shall
India. It was established in 1992. be the fundamental duty of
• The National Board for Wildlife was constituted every citizen to protect and
as a statutory organization under the improve the natural environment
provisions of this Act. This is an advisory board including forests and Wildlife.
that offers advice to the central government on
issues of wildlife conservation in India.
NOTES
• The Act provided for the establishment of the National Tiger Conservation Authority. It is a
statutory body of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change with an overall
supervisory and coordination part, performing capacities as given in the Act.
In India, entry into forests is governed by two laws — The Indian Forest Act, 1927, and The
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
The Wildlife Protection Act empowers the Chief Wildlife Warden of a state to frame laws for
tourists entering Protected Areas — sanctuaries and national parks.
10. People’s Biodiversity Register

The National Campaign for Updation and Verification of People's Biodiversity Register (PBR) was
launched in Goa, by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
Aim: It is aimed to document and preserve India's rich biological diversity.
About PBR:
The People's Biodiversity Register serves as a comprehensive record of locally available Bio-
resources including the landscape and demography of a particular area or village. It is prepared
by Biodiversity Management Committees (under Biodiversity Act 2002) in consultation with local
communities.
About Biodiversity Management Committees

BMCs are local bodies created under the Biological Diversity Act 2002, with the mandate
to ensure the conservation, sustainable utilization and equitable sharing of benefits from
biodiversity.
The act has made it mandatory for every local self-governing institution in rural and urban areas
to constitute Biodiversity Management Committees within their area of jurisdiction. BMC must
prepare a PBR in consultation with local people.
Kolkata was the first major metropolitan city in India to make a detailed People's Biodiversity
Register (PBR). Previously, the Forest Survey of India’s report had flagged the West Bengal
Capital for the least greenery among all metro cities.
NOTES
Animal / Wildlife Protection
1. Himalayan Wolf
The Himalayan Wolf (Canis lupus chanco) has been assessed for the first time on the
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.
• The assessment estimates a population size of 2,275-3,792 mature
individuals across the Himalayan range of Nepal, India, and the
Tibetan Plateau.
Conservation Status
• IUCN’s Red List: Vulnerable
• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I
• CITES: Appendix I
Threats:
• Depredation conflicts, habitat modification, encroachment, depletion of prey populations,
hybridization with dogs, and illegal hunting for trade.
2. Punganur cows
The Punganur cow is native to Punganur village in
Andhra Pradesh's Chittoor district.
It is known for its small size, standing at 70-90 cm
tall and weighing approximately 115-200 kg.
The breed is adapted to hot and dry climates.
Recognizing the importance of preserving this
indigenous breed, the Andhra Pradesh government
has initiated "Mission Punganur" to revive and
conserve the Punganur cow.
Punganur cows are now found not only in Andhra Pradesh but also in Telangana, Karnataka,
Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu.
3. Elusive binturong and the small-clawed otter

Two new mammalian species, the elusive
binturong (bearcat) and the small-clawed
otter, have been added to Assam's Kaziranga
National Park and Tiger Reserve.
• The binturong, the largest civet in India,
was photographed during a migratory bird
count, while the small-clawed otter was
spotted after a training program.
• Both species are listed under Schedule I of
the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.
Species Binturong (Bearcat) Small-clawed Otter (Asian Small-clawed Otter)
Description Largest civet in India. Primarily found in freshwater habitats.

Native South-East Asia. India (West Bengal, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh,
Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala), Southeast Asia,
and Southern China.
NOTES
Distribution India (Meghalaya,
Sikkim), Indonesia,
Thailand, Malaysia,
etc.
Conservation Vulnerable (IUCN); Vulnerable (IUCN); Appendix I (CITES).
Appendix III (CITES).
4. Vulture restaurant in Jharkhand

In Jharkhand, a 'Vulture Restaurant' has been
established in Koderma district as part of a
conservation effort to address the declining
vulture population.
• The initiative aims to combat the impact of
livestock drugs, particularly diclofenac, on
vultures.
• The restaurant serves as a designated
feeding site for vultures, awaiting the
completion of protocols for diclofenac-
free carcasses.
About Vultures:
• It is one of the 22 species of large carrion-
eating birds that live predominantly in the
tropics and subtropics.
• They act an important function as nature’s
garbage collectors and help to keep the
environment clean of waste.
• India is home to 9 species of
Vulture namely the Oriental white-backed,
Long-billed, Slender-billed, Himalayan,
Red-headed, Egyptian, Bearded, Cinereous and the Eurasian Griffon.
• Bearded, Long-billed, Slender-billed, Oriental white-backed are protected in the Schedule-1
of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972. Rest is protected under ‘Schedule IV’.
5. Malabar Pied Hornbill

A two-decade-long community-based conservation initiative in the Vazhachal Forest division of
the Western Ghats (Kerala) has successfully restored the dwindling hornbill population,
specifically the Malabar Pied Hornbill, to a viable level.
About the programme:

• Communities involved: Kadar tribal community
• Agencies involved: Western Ghats Hornbill Foundation and the Kerala Forest Department
• The method used: Monitoring hornbill nesting trees, addressing poaching issues, raising
awareness about hornbills and protecting their habitat.
• Impact: The efforts resulted in the re-establishment of abandoned nests and the formation of
new nesting hollows. The Malabar Pied hornbill population in the area grew to around 100
individuals with 12 nesting sites.
About Hornbills: Hornbills are birds found in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia.
In India, there are nine species of hornbills, with the northeastern region being home to the
highest diversity of these birds. The hornbill holds cultural significance for certain ethnic
communities in the northeast, particularly the Nyishi of Arunachal Pradesh. The Nagas celebrate
NOTES
the Hornbill festival, named after this revered and admired bird. Hornbills are also called
“gardeners or farmers of the forest”.
6. Pakke Paga Hornbill Festival

The Pakke Paga Hornbill Festival (PPHF) in Arunachal Pradesh, emphasizes the conservation of
hornbills.
• The festival highlights the decline in hornbill numbers and urges collective efforts to protect
these critically endangered birds.
• The festival declared a ‘state festival’ in 2019, is held near the Pakke Tiger Reserve, home to
four hornbill species.
The Great Indian Hornbill is a bird family found in tropical and subtropical Africa, Asia, and
Melanesia. It is the state bird of Kerala and Arunachal Pradesh in India.
The Great Indian Hornbill is now considered "Vulnerable" due to high hunting pressure, habitat
loss, and deforestation.
7. Kumki Elephants
Kumki elephants are trained captive elephants used for operations such as trapping, rescuing,
and tranquillizing wild elephants.
NOTES
8. Alpine ibexes
Climate change is impacting Alpine ibexes (IUCN:
Least Concern), a species of mountain goats in the
European Alps.
Warmer temperatures are forcing these goats to
shift from diurnal to nocturnal (from daytime to
nighttime) habits to escape excess heat, making
them vulnerable to predators like wolves.
This shift may have negative consequences on

foraging efficiency, antipredator behaviours, and
overall reproduction and survival rates.
About Ibexes:
An ibex is any of several species of wild goat, distinguished by the male's large recurved horns,
which are transversely ridged in front. Ibex are found in Europe (Alpine Ibexes), Russia (Siberian
Ibexes), India (Himalayan Ibexes), North Africa and East Africa.
Across Asia, Ibex inhabits elevations from 500 m to 6,700 m in countries like India, Kazakhstan,
Tajikistan, Mongolia, Pakistan, Southern Siberia, and China, with the least concern about IUCN
status.
The Himalayan Ibex (a distinct species and NOT part of Siberian Ibex) is primarily found in the
trans-Himalayan ranges of the Union Territories of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir, as well as
Himachal Pradesh.
9. Project Nilgiri Tahr

Tamil Nadu has launched 'Project Nilgiri Tahr,' a wildlife conservation initiative.
• The project aims to protect the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a species native to the Western
Ghats.
• It focuses on understanding the population, distribution, and ecology of Nilgiri Tahr,
reintroducing them to their historical habitats, addressing immediate threats to their
survival, raising public awareness, and developing eco-tourism activities.
NOTES
10. Budgett’s frog

Researchers from the Indian Institute of Science's molecular biophysics unit have conducted a
study revealing that peptides derived from the skin of Budgett’s frog possess the ability to
combat enzymes produced by disease-causing pathogens.
• The frog's skin secretions contain LL-TIL, a specific peptide studied by the researchers.
• LL-TIL was found to inhibit two key enzymes, subtilisin carlsberg and proteinase K, which are
produced by pathogens and play a crucial role in promoting infections by breaking down
specific protective proteins in the host.
About Budgett’s frog:

• Budgett's frog (Lepidobatrachus laevis) is a species of frog in the
horned frog family, Ceratophryidae.
• Size: They can grow to be 4–5 in (10–13 cm) in size, with females
being larger than males.
• Habitat: Their natural habitat is the semiarid Gran Chaco region of
South America.
NOTES
11. De-extinction of Dodo
12. Melanistic tigers

Melanistic tigers are found exclusively in the Similipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha. STR harbours the
only population of melanistic tigers in the world (10 out of 16 tigers in the park are melanistic)
The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) issued a Standard Operating Procedure to
safeguard these tigers, with Similipal identified as a distinct genetic cluster for conservation.
Funding under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats
supports various conservation efforts in Similipal, including awareness programs, habitat
management, protection, and infrastructure development.
About Melanistic tigers (black tigers)

• They are a rare colour variant of the Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris).
• Unlike the typical orange coat with dark stripes, melanistic tigers have a dark black or nearly
black coat with faint or almost invisible stripes.
• This dark colouration is due to a genetic condition known as melanism, where there is an
excessive development of dark pigmentation (melanin) in the skin and fur.
• Melanistic tigers are not a separate subspecies but rather a colour morph within the Bengal
tiger population.
NOTES
• A single mutation in the gene Transmembrane Aminopeptidase Q (Taqpep) causes the black
tigers to develop broadened stripes.
About STR:
Simlipal Tiger Reserve, situated in the Eastern Ghats, is a UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserve,
National Park, and Tiger Reserve.
Positioned within the Mahanadian coastal region and the Chhotanagpur biotic province, it spans
diverse biogeographical realms. Comprising the Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve, which includes
Similipal Tiger Reserve, Hadgarh, and Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary, Simlipal boasts varied
vegetation, encompassing moist and dry deciduous forests and grasslands.
13. Ghol as the Gujrat’s state Fish

The Gujarat government recently declared the ghol as the state fish, citing its economic value and
uniqueness.
Ghol Fish Details

About Ghol The Ghol fish is a rare and expensive marine species found in the Indo-
Fish Pacific region (from the Persian Gulf to the Pacific Ocean), primarily in the
marine areas of Gujarat and Maharashtra in India
Nutrients It is loaded with rich nutrients such as
iodine, omega-3, DHA, EPA, iron, taurine,
magnesium, fluoride, and selenium.
Length Around one-and-a-half meters. Price increases with length, reaching up to

Rs 5 lakh per unit length.
In India One of the largest fish found in India, primarily in marine areas of Gujarat
and Maharashtra. Often referred to as 'Sea Gold.' (or known as the
"fisherman's lottery") recognized for a pouch in its stomach with potent
medicinal properties.
Benefits Good for eye health, and contains vitamins and minerals. Prevents ageing
and wrinkles due to collagen content. Improves infant IQ with Omega-3,
stimulating brain cell growth.
Economic Demand for both meat and air bladder. Used in beer and winemaking. Air
Value bladder has pharmaceutical applications. Highly valued in overseas
markets, especially China.
14. Olive Ridley

Two Olive Ridley turtles, fitted with satellite transmitters, have
embarked on remarkable journeys in search of food after laying
eggs on Sindhudurg district beaches in Maharashtra.
• One has covered an impressive 5,000 kilometres from the
Arabian Sea to the Bay of Bengal. And the fellow turtle with
a transmitter, is currently north of the Malabar coast.
Olive ridley turtles are one of the smallest sea turtle species. They are named for the olive green
colour of their heart-shaped shells. They are found primarily in the tropical regions of the Pacific,
Indian, and Atlantic oceans.
• Protection Status:
• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule 1
• IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
• CITES: Appendix I
NOTES
15. Leatherback Turtles
16. Asiatic wild dog-tiger coexistence

A recent study conducted in Assam's Manas National Park
has revealed that the coexistence and potential cooperation
between Asiatic wild dogs (dholes) and tigers are influenced
by factors such as prey availability and habitat suitability.
• Dholes are an endangered species and the only pack-
living canid in India's tropical forests.
• The study revealed a positive relationship between the
two species in terms of habitat use. This unexpected
finding suggests that factors like overlapping prey availability and habitat suitability could
facilitate coexistence or even cooperative behaviours between dholes and tigers.
Dholes are wild dogs native to Asia.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists dholes as endangered. There are
only 1000–2000 adults.
17. Amazon River dolphins

The deaths of 120 river dolphins in a tributary of the
Amazon River are believed to be linked to a severe
drought and high temperatures.
• Low river levels during the drought have led to
water temperatures that are harmful to the
dolphins.
The Amazon River dolphin (Inia geoffrensis) is a species of toothed whale that lives in the
rainforest rivers of South America.
They are also known as the boto, bufeo, or pink river dolphin.
Known for their striking pink colour, are a unique freshwater species in South America and face
vulnerability due to slow reproductive cycles.
18. Global Declaration for River Dolphins

In a significant move to protect the world's six surviving species of river dolphins, 11 Asian and
South American countries have signed a groundbreaking Global Declaration for River Dolphins.
River Dolphins are top predators in some of the world’s greatest river systems and important
indicators of the river’s health.
Aim of the declaration:

The declaration's aim is to halt the decline and bolster the most vulnerable river dolphin
populations through collaborative efforts.
NOTES
Surviving species of river dolphins:
Species Habitat IUCN
Amazon River Freshwater rivers in South America Endangered
Dolphin
Ganges River Ganges and Brahmaputra River systems in India and Endangered
Dolphin Bangladesh
Indus River Pakistan and River Beas (a tributary of the Indus River in Endangered
Dolphin Punjab)
Irrawaddy Coastal areas in South and Southeast Asia, rivers including Endangered
Dolphin Ayeyarwady (Myanmar), Mahakam (Indonesian Borneo),
Mekong, and Chilka Lake (India)
Tucuxi Dolphin Amazon River system in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Endangered
Peru
Yangtze Yangtze River (the longest river in Asia) Critically
Finless Endangered
Porpoise
About Gangetic River dolphin:
19. Gharials
World Wildlife Fund has confirmed the presence of gharials (Gavialis gangeticus) in Punjab.
About the News:

Gharials is a critically endangered crocodilian unique to the Indian subcontinent, that was once
extirpated from the region. Experts have suggested that the gharial may have come into Pakistan
NOTES
from India's Punjab, where several gharials were released into the Beas River between 2017 and
2021, primarily from the Chambal basin in Madhya Pradesh.
About WWF: The World-Wide Fund for Nature (est. 1961; HQ: Gland, Switzerland) is a Swiss-
based international non-governmental organization that works in the field of wilderness
preservation and the reduction of human impact on the environment.
20. Gir cow breed

The Rashtriya Gokul Mission, India's initiative to enhance indigenous cattle breeds, has primarily
promoted the Gir cow breed due to its high milk yield and adaptability.
What is Gir Cow Breed?

The Gir cow is an indigenous breed of cattle in India known for its high milk yield, adaptability to
various regions, and calm temperament. It is characterized by its distinctive hump over the
shoulders and a reddish-brown coat. Gir cows are prized for their milk production, with purebred
Gir cows yielding 18-20 liters of milk per day. Gir is originated in Gir forests in Gujarat and also
found in Maharashtra and adjacent Rajasthan
Other indigenous cattle breeds: Red Sindhi, Sahiwal, Hallikar etc
About the Rashtriya Gokul Mission:

Keywords Explanation
NOTES
Rashtriya Gokul A program for indigenous bovine breed development and conservation
Mission
Implementation Started in December 2014
Since
Continued Under Part of Rashtriya Pashudhan Vikas Yojna from 2021 to 2026
Nodal Ministry Managed by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying
Objectives Aims to enhance bovine productivity, promote high genetic merit
bulls, expand artificial insemination coverage (increase artificial
insemination to 70%), and conserve indigenous cattle and buffalo
21. Cheetah
In India, the native cheetah species was the Asiatic cheetah, which went extinct in 1952.
Currently, only Iran has Asiatic cheetahs in the wild, numbering around 12, and the majority of
the remaining 7,000-strong population of the big cats around the world is of African cheetahs –
the ones that had come to India.
● 'Cheetah' (Acinonyx Jubatus Venaticus) originates from Sanskrit and means 'the spotted
one'.
● The Cheetah is the fastest land animal in the world.
● Its historical range includes the majority of Sub-Saharan Africa and extends eastward to
India.
● It is the only large carnivore that went ‘Extinct’ in India due to overhunting and habitat loss.
● The last cheetah died in the Koriya district of present-day Chhattisgarh in 1947 and the
species was declared extinct in 1952.
NOTES
22. All-India Tiger Estimation 2022
● According to the Wildlife Institute of India's (WII) 5th
quadrennial tiger census, India’s tiger population
increased to 3,682 in 2022.
● The numbers in the report, revised from 3167 earlier,
reflect a commendable annual growth rate of 6.1% per
annum.
● The largest tiger population of 785 is in MP, followed by
Karnataka (563) and Uttarakhand (560), and
Maharashtra (444).
● The tiger abundance within the Tiger Reserve is highest in Corbett (260), followed by
Bandipur (150), Nagarhole (141), Bandhavgarh (135), Dudhwa (135), etc.
● Central India and the Shivalik Hills and Gangetic Plains witnessed a notable increase in tiger
population, while the Western Ghats experienced localised declines, necessitating targeted
monitoring and conservation efforts.
● Some states, including Mizoram, Nagaland, Jharkhand, Goa, Chhattisgarh and Arunachal
Pradesh, have reported disturbing trends with small tiger populations.
Efforts to conserve the species:

● Global Tiger Day (July 29): It was instituted in 2010 at the Tiger Summit in St Petersburg, Russia
when the 13 tiger range countries came together to create Tx2 - the global goal to double the
number of wild tigers by the year 2022.
● Project Tiger of India:
○ It was launched by the Central government on April 1, 1973, at the Jim Corbett National
Park of Uttarakhand to promote the conservation of the tiger.
○ It didn’t just focus on the conservation of the big cats but also ensured the preservation
of their natural habitat as tigers are at the top of the food chain.
● National Tiger Conservation Authority
(NTCA) of India: It was established in
2005, following a recommendation of the
Tiger Task Force, to reorganise the
management of Project Tiger and India's
many Tiger Reserves in India.
● Management Effectiveness Evaluation
(MEE):
○ It was adopted from the
framework of the IUCN World
Commission on Protected Areas.
○ Since its inception in 2006, MEE
has been jointly conducted by the
NTCA and the WII and has paved the path for a successful evaluation of national tiger
conservation efforts in India.
23. Sea lions and algae bloom

A recent outbreak of algae bloom - commonly known as red
tide - has sickened and killed an unknown number of sea
lions and dolphins off the coast of California, US.
Sea lions (IUCN Status - Endangered):

● They are pinnipeds characterised by external ear flaps,
long fore flippers, the ability to walk on all fours, short
and thick hair and a big chest and belly.
NOTES
● Their range extends from the subarctic to tropical waters of the global ocean in both the
Northern and Southern Hemispheres, except the northern Atlantic Ocean.
Algal bloom/red tides:

● An algal bloom is a term used for the excessive growth of algae over a water body causing
discolouration of the water body.
○ Blooms can proliferate because of human causes such as climate change and an
excess of nitrates washed out to sea.
● Red tide is the red colouration of seawater due to the presence of dinoflagellate Gonyaulax.
Impact:
● Algal blooms cause the production of a neurotoxin called domoic acid and result in the death
of fish and other aquatic organisms.
● Small fish consume the toxin and pass it up the food chain. Humans are unaffected unless
they eat infected shellfish.
24. Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR)

Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR) in Maharashtra has been designated as India's first Dark Sky Park, the
fifth in Asia, aimed at preserving the night sky and combating light pollution.
Recognized by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), this status emphasizes
the importance of natural darkness for ecological integrity and community well-being. The Dark
Sky Place certification involves lighting policy, retrofits, education, and night sky monitoring.
About the Pench Tiger Reserve:

Key Points Details
About Located in Nagpur District, Maharashtra, named after Pench River. The river
divides the park into equal eastern and western parts.
Declared National Park in 1975, became a tiger reserve in 1998-1999. Major
Protected Area in Satpura-Maikal ranges. Designated Important Bird Area
(IBA) by Birdlife International.
The reserve, spanning Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, is known for its
tiger conservation efforts and inspired Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book.
Flora Dense green cover with Southern dry broadleaf teak forests and tropical
mixed deciduous forests. Presence of shrubs, climbers, and unique medicinal
plants. Bamboo plantations near water banks.
Fauna Sloth bear, jackal, nilgai, wild dog, among others.
Mammals
Fauna Birds Peafowl, magpie robin, pintail, drongo, unia, myna, and various other bird
species.
25. Darjeeling Zoo

Darjeeling Zoo, home to the world's largest number of snow leopards in captivity, marking a
success story for India's lone Conservation Breeding Programme.
What is the Conservation Breeding Programme?

The Conservation Breeding Programme is the science of conserving a species by preventing
imminent population collapse in the wild due to a large number of eliminative pressures (i.e.
habitat loss, habitat fragmentation, industrialization, poaching, illegal trade climate change etc.)
The snow leopard conservation breeding program at Darjeeling Zoo, established in 1985, is the
first and only of its kind in India. A key feature of the program is the careful use of a diverse
genetic pool for breeding snow leopards.
NOTES
About Snow Leopard:
More on Snow Leopard:

Recently, Kyrgyzstan has officially chosen the Snow Leopard as its national symbol
Topic Details
Range Countries Afghanistan, Bhutan, China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan,
Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan
Global Snow Leopard Estimated between 4k and 6.5k worldwide; China has the highest
Population population; India has around 700-800 individuals
Hemis National Park, Ladakh: Snow Leopard Capital of the world;
State Animal of Ladakh & Himachal Pradesh
Conservation Efforts Project Snow Leopard (Government of India, 2009): Focus on
in India conservation in high-altitude ecosystems
Community Involvement: Initiatives like Himal Sanrakshak
recognize local communities' role in protection and conflict
reduction
Snow Leopard Population Count: Introduced First National Protocol
for population monitoring in 2019
Ministry's Recovery Programme: Snow Leopard is on the list of 21
critically endangered species for recovery
Snow Leopard Conservation Breeding Programme: Conducted at
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, West Bengal
NOTES
26. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
A team of researchers in Kerala has
identified the presence of the Eurasian
Otter (Lutra lutra) in the state for the first
time, specifically at Chinnar Wildlife
Sanctuary in Idukki.
About Otters:
Otters, belonging to the Mustelidae
family with 13 species, inhabit every
continent except Australia and Antarctica.
The Eurasian otter is categorized as 'near
threatened' on the IUCN Red List.
Recognized as a flagship species, it serves
as an indicator of high-quality aquatic
habitats.
The Eurasian otter holds the broadest

range in the world, but it faces
persecution in countries like India, China,
and Nepal, leading to a decline in
populations due to hunting, habitat loss,
pollution, and climate change.
This discovery adds a new member to Kerala's mammal list, making it the third species of otter
found in the state, alongside the Smooth-coated Otter and Small-clawed Otter.
About Chinar WLS:

Aspect Details
Location Situated in the Idukki district of Kerala. Major rivers include Chinnar and
Pambar.
Climate Rainshadow region of Western Ghats with a 6-7 month dry season in lower
areas. The average rainfall is 500mm, mostly during the NE monsoon.
Biodiversity Home to 965 floral species, 29 mammal species including the endangered
Grizzled Giant Squirrel, 225 bird species, 52 reptile species, and endemic
fish like Deccan Mahseer.
Cultural Inhabited by the Muthuvan and Hill Pulaya tribes. Contains the largest
Significance megalithic sites in Kerala.
27. Anamalai Tiger Reserve

The Forest Department is removing invasive species A committee assessed the progress of
in the Anamalai Tiger Reserve's core areas, focusing Tamil Nadu's first tiger rewilding
on the Ulandy range. program in the Anamalai Tiger Reserve.
The tiger is cared for by dedicated
Native tree saplings are being planted on 90 hectares, Forest Department staff who minimize
part of the Restoration of Degraded Forests contact and monitor the animal
Landscape Project supported by NABARD. Tribal through cameras.
communities from ATR are involved in removing
invasive plants and planting native trees, including Aegle marmelos, Syzygium cumini, and
Pterocarpus marsupium.
About Anamalai Tiger Reserve:

About ATR Details
NOTES
About Carved out of the Tamil Nadu portion of the Anamalais and lies
South of the Palakkad gap in the Western Ghats
Surrounded by various wildlife reserves and forests: Parambikulum
Tiger Reserve on the East, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and Eravikulum
National Park on the South Western side
Ranges within the reserve include Amaravathi, Udumalpet, Pollachi,
Ulandy, Valparai, and Manamboli
Anthropological Home to over 4600 Adivasi people from six indigenous tribes living
Diversity in 34 settlements, including Kadars, Malasars, Malaimalasar,
Pulaiyars, Muduvars, and Eravallan (Eravalar)
Flora Encompasses a variety of ecosystems, including wet evergreen
forests, semi-evergreen forests, montane shola-grassland, moist
deciduous, dry deciduous, thorn forests, and marshes.
The Kariyan shola, Grass Hills and Manjampatti of ATR are part of
the UNESCO World Heritage site
Fauna Notable mammal species include the Asiatic elephant, Sambar,
spotted deer, Barking deer, Mouse deer, Gaur, Nilgiri tahr, and Tigers.
Other Protected Mudumalai Tiger Reserve – Kalakkad – Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve –
Areas in Tamil Nadu Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve – Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve –
Mukurthi National Park – Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park –
Guindy National Park
28. Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary

A tiger has been spotted at a record-high elevation of 3,640 meters in the Pangolakha Wildlife
Sanctuary in Sikkim. This marks the highest elevation in India where tigers have been observed,
surpassing the previous record of 3,630 meters in Arunachal Pradesh.
About Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary

Topic Details
Location The Pangalokha
Wildlife Sanctuary is
situated at the tri-
junction of Sikkim,
Bengal, and Bhutan.
The Pangolakha
range in the east
separates Sikkim
from Bhutan
Size It is the largest
wildlife sanctuary in
Sikkim.
Connectivity Linked to Neora
Valley National
Park of West
Bengal, forests of
Samtse and Haa
district in Bhutan.
NOTES
Biodiversity Home to various species, including red pandas, snow leopards, Himalayan
musk deer, goral, and black bears.
Lakes Features high-altitude lakes, including Lake Tsongmo, a biodiversity hotspot
for migratory birds.
Rivers Major rivers like Rangpo and Jaldhaka originate from nearby lakes within
the sanctuary.
Biogeographic Falls at the junction of the Palearctic realm and the Indomalayan realm,
Realm supporting diverse species.
Ecoregions & Encompasses various ecoregions, including the Terai-Duar savanna, Eastern
Biomes Himalayan broadleaf forests, Himalayan subtropical pine forests, Eastern
Himalayan subalpine conifer forests, and Eastern Himalayan alpine shrub
and meadows.
29. Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR)

The rise in tiger numbers at Bihar's Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR) is attributed to a reduction in
human activities, particularly restrictions on illegal mining in the eco-sensitive zone.
• The ban on sand and stone mining inside VTR, along with strict limits in its eco-sensitive
zone, led to increased grassland cover.
Bihar is also pursuing the establishment of a second tiger reserve in Kaimur district.
30. Pong Dam Wildlife Sanctuary

• It is located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India, is a significant protected area
known for its diverse flora and fauna.
• Pong Dam Lake (Maharana Pratap Sagar) is a manmade reservoir created in 1975 with
construction of Pong Dam on Beas River. It is also known as Pong reservoir or Pong Dam.
• In 1983, reservoir was declared as Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Pong Dam Lake was designated a Ramsar site in 2002. There is a Vulture café in Pong
wherein cattle carcass is dumped for Vultures.
31. Neora Valley National Park

A recent image captured by trap cameras in the Neora Valley National Park in the hills of West
Bengal has confirmed the presence of Royal Bengal Tigers at an altitude of 10,509 feet above sea
level.
• The survey indicates the presence of more than 10 tigers in the area, with recent camera trap
images consistently featuring at least one Royal Bengal Tiger.
Neora Valley National Park in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal was established in 1986, it's
a rich biological zone with diverse flora and fauna.
The park is home to the red panda and is known for its rugged, inaccessible terrain.
32. Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary

Location Near Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
Name Refers to the local hill, Kambalakonda
Terrain Hilly with steep slopes
Forest Dry evergreen forest mixed with scrub and meadows
Type
Flora Notable flowers include the Indian screw tree, flowers of the Bush plum tree,
Jungle berry bunches
NOTES
Fauna Rare animals: Indian leopard, Indian pangolin, Madras treeshrew, Barking Deer,
Jackal; Rare snake: Russel’s viper or Daboia russelii; Uncommon birds: Indian
Golden oriole, Indian peafowl, Banded Bay Cuckoo
33. Nandankanan Zoological Park (NZP)

The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) has approved the transfer of a cheetah, African lion, and
Chimpanzee from Dubai Safari Park to Nandankanan Zoological Park (NZP) in Odisha.
The NZP, in exchange, will provide various animals including Hippopotamus, blackbuck, hog deer,
gaur, red junglefowl, and gharial.
About Nandankanan Zoological

Park
• It is located 15 km from
Bhubaneswar, Odisha, and
was inaugurated in 1960.
• It holds the distinction of
being the first zoo in India to
join the World Association of
Zoos & Aquariums (WAZA), a
global alliance dedicated to
animal care and conservation.
Recognized for breeding
Indian pangolins and white
tigers, it is also a breeding
ground for leopards, mouse
deer, lions, ratel, and
vultures.
• Nandankanan was the world's
first captive crocodile breeding centre, successfully breeding gharials in captivity in 1980.
NOTES
34. Wildlife Sanctuaries in News
35. Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary

The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) recommends declaring the Nugu Wildlife
Sanctuary, adjoining Bandipur Tiger Reserve, as a core critical tiger habitat.
The recommendation is based on the ecological significance of Nugu, supporting diverse flora
and fauna, including a high-density elephant population, tigers, leopards, and other wildlife
species.
About Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary:

Description
Location North of Bandipur National Park, Mysore District, Karnataka
Nugu Reservoir Occupies the northern part of the sanctuary, built across the Nugu
River (a tributary of the Cauvery)
Declaration Declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1974; Added to Nilgiri Biosphere
Reserve in 2003-2004
About Bandipur Tiger Reserve:

Description
NOTES
Establishment Established in 1973 under Project Tiger; Enlarged in 1985 and named
Bandipur National Park
Location Contiguous districts of Mysore and Chamarajanagar, Karnataka; Tri-
junction of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala
Bandipur Tiger Reserve is surrounded by Mudumalai Tiger Reserve
(Tamil Nadu) in the South, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala) in the
Southwest, and Kabini Reservoir in the North West, separating it from
Nagarahole Tiger Reserve
Biosphere Reserve Part of Mysore Elephant Reserve; Component of Nilgiri Biosphere
Reserve
Biodiversity Recognized as one of the Mega Biodiversity Areas; Rich floral and
faunal diversity
Rivers and Highest Between Kabini River (north) and Moyar River (south); Nugu river runs
Point through; Highest point: Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta
36. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary

It lies within the Kali Tiger Reserve (KTR) (Uttara Kannada District of Karnataka) along with Anshi
National Park.
KTR is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and global biodiversity hotspot. The reserve derives its
name from the Kali River, which flows through the region. The ecoregions found here, namely the
North Western Ghats montane rainforests and North Western Ghats moist deciduous forests.
37. Amangarh Tiger Reserve

The Amangarh Tiger Reserve, an extension of the Jim Corbett National Park, has seen a marginal
increase in its tiger population. However, this growth in the tiger population has had unintended
consequences for the leopards in the area.
About Amangarh Tiger Reserve:

Aspect Information
Location Located in Amangarh, Bijnor district, Uttar Pradesh.
Situated in the Terai region, covering approximately 578 sq km.
Shares boundaries with Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand.
Originally part of Jim Corbett National Park, remained in Uttar Pradesh
after the creation of Uttarakhand.
Establishment Declared a tiger reserve in 2012.
Flora Vegetation includes grasslands, wetlands, and dense forests.
Fauna Mammals: Tigers, Elephants, Swamp Deer, Hog Deer, Sloth Bear, Porcupine
Birds: Hornbill, Red Jungle Fowl, Pea Fowl, Bengal Florican,
Reptiles: Monitor Lizard, Turtles, Gangetic Dolphin, Mugger, Gharia, etc.
NOTES
38. Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR)
Location Falls in the districts of Idukki and Pathanamthitta in Kerala (Western Ghats)
Formation Declared a Sanctuary in 1950 and declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978.
Name It gets its name from the River Periyar which has its origin inside the reserve
Drainage The major rivers through the reserve are Mullayar and Periyar
Flora The sanctuary comprises tropical evergreen, semi-evergreen, moist deciduous
forests and grasslands.
Fauna Mammals: Tiger, Elephant, Lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri Tahr etc. Birds: Darters,
Cormorants, Kingfishers, the great Malabar Hornbill and racket-tailed Drongos.
Reptiles: Monitor Lizards, Python, King Cobra etc.
Tribals There are six tribal communities nestled inside the reserve such as Mannans,
Paliyans, Malayarayans, Mala Pandarams, Uralis and Ulladans
39. Kerala's Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary

• Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is the northernmost
wildlife sanctuary of Kerala (in the Kannur
District).
• It is 55 km² in area and located on the western
slope of the Western Ghats.
• It was established in 1984 with its headquarters
near Iritty.
• The sanctuary borders Wayanad-Brahmagiri,
Wayanad's north slopes, Karnataka's
Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, and Coorg's
forests, with Katti Betta as its highest peak.
40. Lemru Elephant Corridor

• The Lemru Elephant Reserve (Hasdeo Aranya forests) in the Korba district of Chhattisgarh,
aims to reduce human-elephant conflicts as elephants migrate from Odisha and Jharkhand.
This biodiverse area, often called the lungs of Chhattisgarh, also contains significant coal
deposits.
• The state government notified the reserve (Conservation Reserve) in October 2020
under Section 36A of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972(WLPA).
• In India, elephant reserves and corridors have no legal sanctity under any law, including
the Wildlife Protection Act (WLPA), 1972. The act mentions only national parks, wildlife
sanctuaries, conservation and community reserves (collectively called Protected Areas)
About Hasdeo Forest:

• The Hasdeo forest (spanning over 170 sq km) and is often called the “lungs of Chhattisgarh“,
is said to be the largest contiguous stretch of dense forestland in central India.
NOTES
41. Ranthambore Tiger Reserve (RTR)
About NTCA: National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) (formed 2005, following the
recommendations of the Tiger Task Force) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Environment,
Forests and Climate Change. It was constituted under Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, for
strengthening tiger conservation. It is responsible for management of Project Tiger and India's
many Tiger Reserves in India.
42. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary

The Supreme Court has issued notices to the Ministry of Environment and Forests and the Assam
government in response to a plea seeking the declaration of the area around Pobitora Wildlife
Sanctuary in Assam as an eco-sensitive zone.
What is an eco-sensitive zone?

Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) are designated areas surrounding national parks and wildlife
sanctuaries that are deemed ecologically fragile and important for the conservation of wildlife
and their habitats.
Areas mandated under ESZ:

MoEFCC has mandated the declaration of land within 10 km of the park or sanctuary boundaries
as ESZs under the Environmental (Protection) Act, 1986. However, the application of the 10-km
NOTES
rule can vary, and areas beyond 10 km can also be notified as ESZs if they contain significant
ecological corridors.
Categorization of Activities:
• Prohibited: Commercial mining, sawmills, polluting industries, major hydroelectric projects,
and commercial use of wood
• Regulated activities include tree felling, the establishment of hotels and resorts, commercial
use of natural water, the erection of electrical cables, and drastic changes in agricultural
practices.
• Permitted activities in ESZs include ongoing agricultural or horticultural practices, rainwater
harvesting, organic farming, the use of renewable energy sources, and the adoption of green
technology for all activities.
About Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary:

It is located in the flood plains of the Brahmaputra River in Assam, and is known for having the
highest density of one-horned rhinos (EN) in the world. It is often referred to as 'Mini Kaziranga'
due to its similar landscape and vegetation. Approximately 72% of the sanctuary is covered by
wet savannah dominated by Arundo donax and Saccharum, while the rest consists of water
bodies.
43. Measures for the Protection of Marine Species

Steps Taken Details
1) Protected Areas Designation of 130 Marine Protected Areas and identification of
106 Important Coastal and Marine Biodiversity Areas (ICMBAs)
for safeguarding marine species.
2) Scheduled Animals Listing of many threatened marine species as Scheduled animals
in the Wildlife Protection Act 1972.
3) IDWH Scheme Prioritization of threatened species like marine turtles,
humpback whales, and Dugongs for assessment and monitoring
under the Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitat (IDWH)
scheme.
4) Dugong Conservation Establishment of the Dugong Conservation Reserve in Palk Bay
Reserve for the conservation of Dugongs and seagrass-associated marine
species.
5) National Marine Release of the National Marine Turtle Action Plan with the aim
Turtle Action Plan to conserve marine turtles and their habitats in India.
6) Project Dolphin Launch of Project Dolphin in 2021 as a government initiative to
conserve both oceanic and riverine dolphin species.
7) Coastal Regulation Promulgation under the Environment (Protection) Act 1986,
Zone (CRZ) Notification, focusing on conservation and management plans of Ecologically
2019 Sensitive Areas (ESAs) like Mangroves, Seagrasses, Sand dunes,
Corals, Coral reefs, Turtle nesting grounds, etc.
8) Biological Diversity Implementation of the Biological Diversity Act 2002 and
Act 2002 associated rules to ensure the protection, conservation, and
sustainable use of marine species.
9) Financial Assistance Granting funds under centrally sponsored schemes to maritime
states for the conservation of Corals and Mangroves. CAMPA
funds provided for Dugong conservation.
10) Centre for Marine An attached office under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) is
Living Resources and mandated with the development of management strategies for
Ecology (CMLRE) marine living resources through ecosystem monitoring and
modelling activities.
NOTES
11) Marine Megafauna Release of guidelines for actions during stranding and
Stranding Management entanglement events, improving coordination between
Guidelines, 2021 stakeholders.
44. Diel Vertical Migration (DVM)

Diel Vertical Migration (DVM), a synchronized movement observed in deep-sea marine animals,
particularly zooplankton, where they swim up to the ocean's surface at night and return to
deeper waters during the day.
Significance of the DVM:

• This migration serves as a survival
strategy, allowing them to feed on
phytoplankton in the safer darkness while
avoiding daytime predators.
• DVM is a crucial player in the Earth's
carbon cycle. Animals in the mesopelagic
(middle water between 200m to 1000m )
layer actively remove carbon from the
upper ocean as they consume surface-dwelling plankton. When these organisms return to
deeper waters, they transport the carbon with them.
• DVM is the largest daily migration on the planet by biomass, occurring in all oceans.
• DVM contributes to carbon sequestration, as migratory animals become part of the food
chain in the twilight zone, passing on carbon to their predators.
• The carbon-rich waste produced by these predators eventually sinks to the ocean floor
45. Estivation
Estivation, also known as aestivation, is a biological phenomenon in which some animals enter a
prolonged state of dormancy or inactivity during hot and dry conditions.
• It serves as a survival strategy to conserve energy and water. Animals undergoing estivation
typically seek shelter in cool underground burrows, crevices, or cocoons, reducing their
metabolic activity and energy consumption.
• This behaviour helps them avoid extreme dryness and the risk of predation.
Examples of estivating animals include the West African lungfish, desert tortoises, and certain
land snails.
46. Regulating captive breeding of exotic animals

India begins regulating the captive breeding of exotic animals through a licensing system.
• Those who breed exotic species protected under (CITES) and listed in Appendix 1 of Schedule
IV of the Wildlife Protection Act 2022 can now obtain Breeders of Species Licence under the
Breeders of Species Licence Rules,2023.
• Appendix 1 of Schedule IV is endangered exotic animals (Red Panda, various species of dogs,
wolves, cats, apes, chimpanzees, gibbons) and plants, and import rules are stricter for them.
What is Captive Breeding?
Captive breeding refers to the practice of breeding and raising wild animals in controlled
environments, such as zoos, wildlife centres, or specialized facilities, with the purpose of
conserving and protecting endangered or threatened species.
• The goal of captive breeding programs is to increase the population size of rare species and, if
possible, reintroduce individuals back into their natural habitats.
Captive breeding of exotic species protected under CITES was not regulated in the Indian laws
until the recent amendment to the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act 2022.
NOTES
47. Central Asian Flyway (CAF)
NOTES
Environment Protection
1. Biosphere reserves
November 3 is celebrated as World Biosphere Reserve Day (to raise awareness of the importance
of biosphere reserves)
What are Biosphere reserves?

Biosphere reserves are areas designated by
UNESCO to promote the conservation of
biodiversity, sustainable development, and
scientific research. They consist of three zones:
• a core zone for the strict protection of
ecosystems
• a buffer zone where people live and work in
harmony with nature
• a transition zone for sustainable activities.
Aim: Biosphere Reserves try to balance economic

and social development and maintenance of associated cultural values along with the
preservation of nature.
Status of Biosphere Reserves in India:

There are 748 reserves in 134 countries, including 22 transboundary sites. India has 18
internationally recognized Biosphere reserves, with the Nilgiri reserve being the first. The latest
addition is Panna in Madhya Pradesh.
Twelve of the eighteen biosphere reserves are a part of the World Network of Biosphere
Reserves, based on the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme list.
NOTES
Difference between National Park, Wildlife Sanctuary and Biosphere Reserve
Functions of Biosphere Reserves:

Function Description
Conservation Managing genetic resources, endemic species, ecosystems, and landscapes.
Preventing conflicts like man-animal incidents.
Protecting the wildlife, culture, and customs of tribal communities.
Support a wide variety of ecosystems, from tropical rainforests to alpine
deserts
Development Promoting sustainable economic and human growth on sociocultural and
ecological levels.
Strengthening the pillars of sustainable development: social, economic, and
environmental protection.
Play a crucial role in combating climate change by acting as carbon sinks
Logistic Promoting research, environmental education, training, and monitoring in
Support the context of conservation and sustainable development.
The threats to Biosphere Reserves (BRs) include: Deforestation, Invasive species,

Land use changes like mining, Urbanization and population growth causing exploitation.
Initiatives aimed at conserving Biosphere Reserves (at the India level):

Initiative Description
South and Central UNESCO organized the SACAM in collaboration with the Indian
Asian Biosphere Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, providing a
Reserve Network platform for sharing expertise and fostering partnerships in
Meeting (SACAM) in sustainable environmental practices within South and Central Asia.
Chennai
NOTES
UNESCO's Man and the UNESCO's MAB, initiated in 1971, focuses on establishing a scientific
Biosphere Programme basis for improving the relationship between people and their
(MAB) environments by combining natural and social sciences, economics,
and education to promote innovative approaches to economic
development that are socially and culturally appropriate and
environmentally sustainable.
It grants protection not only to the flora and fauna but also to the
human communities and their ways of life within biosphere
reserves.
Local community In biosphere reserves like the Sundarbans and the Gulf of Mannar
engagement in in India, local communities are actively engaged in managing and
conservation conserving their ecosystems. This includes collaborative efforts to
protect mangrove forests, forming self-help groups, and promoting
eco-tourism.
Plastic checkpoints in the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve: The
Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve Trust has introduced the concept
of plastic checkpoints where community members inspect vehicles
and tourists for plastic waste. This waste is collected, recycled, and
used in road construction, promoting sustainable waste
management.
Global initiatives:
• World Network of Biosphere Reserves: UNESCO's World Network of Biosphere Reserves
connects and supports designated sites globally, fostering collaboration in biodiversity
conservation and sustainable development.
• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): The United Nations' SDGs, particularly Goal 15 (Life
on Land) and Goal 14 (Life Below Water), emphasize the importance of conserving
biodiversity and sustainable management of ecosystems, aligning with biosphere reserve
objectives.
2. Humboldt’s enigma
Humboldt's enigma, a concept proposed by Alexander von Humboldt in the 19th century that
suggests a relationship between temperature, altitude, humidity, and biodiversity.
• Humboldt's enigma is the idea that the Earth's tropical areas are not the only biodiverse
regions. According to this idea, many areas outside the tropics, such as mountains, are also
highly biodiverse.
• The eastern Himalayas are cited as an example where climate dissimilarity and diverse
geological composition contribute to high biodiversity.
3. The oldest evidence of photosynthesis

A study published in the journal Nature reveals the oldest evidence of photosynthetic structures
found in a collection of 1.75-billion-year-old microfossils known as Navifusa majensis.
• The microstructures identified as thylakoids, membrane-bound structures inside
chloroplasts, provide direct evidence for oxygenic photosynthesis.
• This process, unique to cyanobacteria and related organelles in eukaryotes, involves
converting water and carbon dioxide into glucose and oxygen with sunlight.
The discovery suggests that photosynthesis may have evolved before 1.75 billion years ago,
shedding light on the evolution of oxygenic photosynthesis, a process that played a crucial role in
the Great Oxidation Event around 2.4 billion years ago.
NOTES
4. Artificial reefs in Kerala

The deployment of artificial reefs off the coast of 42 fishing villages in Thiruvananthapuram
district, Kerala, commenced as part of a project aimed at enhancing fish resources and promoting
sustainable fisheries management.
A total of 6,300 artificial reef units, with 150 designated for each village, will be deployed. It
intends to boost sustainable fishing practices, improve the marine landscape, and enhance the
livelihoods of the fishing community.
The initiative is implemented under the Central Government's Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada
Yojana, with technical support from the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute.
What are Artificial reefs?

• They are man-made structures intentionally placed on the ocean floor to mimic the
characteristics of natural reefs.
NOTES
• These structures,
often made of
materials like
concrete, rocks, or
sunken ships, serve
as habitats for
marine life.
• The primary
purpose of artificial
reefs is to enhance
local marine
ecosystems,
promote
biodiversity, and
provide breeding
and feeding grounds
for fish, ultimately
supporting
sustainable fisheries
and conservation
efforts.
5. Coral reef
Scientists have mapped the largest known deep-sea coral reef off the US Atlantic coast,
stretching about 310 miles from Florida to South Carolina.
• Unlike tropical coral reefs, deep-sea coral must filter food particles from the water for
energy.
• The newly discovered reef, which provides habitat for various marine species, has been
called "breathtaking in scale" and covers nearly three times the size of Yellowstone National
Park.
A coral reef is a complex underwater ecosystem made up of colonies of coral polyps held
together by calcium carbonate. Coral reefs are often called the "rainforests of the sea" and
support about 25% of all known marine species.
About Deep Sea Corals:

Deep-sea corals are also called cold-water corals. They don't rely on photosynthesis because
they're living in the dark. Instead, they use the tentacles on their polyps to filter food out of the
surrounding waters.
6. Coral Reef Breakthrough

The International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI), in collaboration with the Global Fund for Coral
Reefs (GFCR) and the High-Level Climate Champions (HLCC), has launched the Coral Reef
Breakthrough.
• This initiative aims to safeguard at least 125,000 square kilometres of shallow-water tropical
coral reefs by 2030 through investments of at least US$12 billion.
The Coral Reef Breakthrough will focus on four action points:

• Mitigating local drivers of loss, including land-based pollution, coastal development, and
overfishing.
• Doubling the area of coral reefs under effective protection by aligning with global coastal
protection targets.
NOTES
• Accelerating restoration efforts to impact 30% of degraded reefs by 2030.
• Securing investments of at least USD 12 billion by 2030 from public and private sources to
conserve and restore coral ecosystems.
7. Marine cloud brightening

Australian researchers are exploring the concept of "marine cloud brightening" as a potential
solution to mitigate coral bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef caused by extreme heat.
• This approach involves using water cannons to spray seawater into the sky, which results in
the formation of brighter, whiter clouds.
• These clouds, known as low marine clouds, reflect sunlight away from the ocean's surface,
offering protection to the marine life beneath and potentially reducing coral bleaching.
• The idea of marine cloud brightening was initiated after the mass coral bleaching event in
2016, with initial lab development and pilot testing near the Great Barrier Reef.
• This method aims to delay coral bleaching during marine heatwaves, potentially buying more
time for the reef's recovery.
• To brighten clouds, researchers spray microscopic seawater droplets into the air, mimicking
the creation of sea salt aerosols by natural processes like wind and waves.
• Sea salt provides shade and additional reflection of light. While humanity unintentionally
brightens clouds through the release of aerosols, the research in Australia aims to harness
this process for environmentally responsible and socially acceptable conservation efforts for
the Great Barrier Reef.
8. Nature-based Solutions
Six new countries and a United Nations agency have joined the ENACT Partnership, a global
initiative aimed at coordinating efforts to address climate change, land and ecosystem
degradation, and biodiversity loss through Nature-based Solutions.
• ENACT, launched at COP27 in 2022, involves working with nature to deliver climate,
biodiversity, and land restoration action.
The partnership, led by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), aims to
enhance the protection and resilience of at least 1 billion vulnerable people, secure up to 2.4
billion hectares of healthy ecosystems, and increase global mitigation efforts.
Nature-based solutions are based on the notion that when ecosystems are healthy and well-
managed, they provide essential benefits and services to people, such as reducing greenhouse
gas emissions, securing safe water resources, making air safer to breathe, or providing increased
food security.
Examples: Protecting and restoring coral reefs, Building greener cities etc.
9. Self-Pollination
In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have observed rapid evolution in a flowering plant, Viola
arvensis (field pansy), in Paris, France. The plant is producing less nectar and smaller flowers to
attract fewer pollinators, displaying signs of self-pollination.
What are the reason for the evolution?

Changes in the environment especially due to anthropogenic activities have limited the
population of pollinators (such as Bees). In such a situation, plants evolve to self-pollinate itself.
What is Self-pollination?
NOTES
It is a reproductive process in plants where pollen from a flower's male reproductive organs
(anther) fertilizes the female reproductive organs (stigma) of the same flower or another flower
on the same plant.
• The mechanism ensures the plant's ability to reproduce without relying on external
pollinators like insects or wind.
Mechanism of the Self-Pollination:

1. Anther and Stigma Proximity: In self-pollinating plants, the
anther (producing pollen) is close to the stigma (receiving
pollen) within the same flower.
2. Pollen Transfer: Pollen grains are transferred from the
anther to the stigma, either by physical contact or through
the plant's internal mechanisms.
3. Fertilization: The pollen tube grows down the style to the
ovary, where fertilization takes place, resulting in the
formation of seeds.
4. Genetic Similarity: Since both the pollen and the ovule come from the same plant, the
offspring are genetically identical to the parent, leading to limited genetic diversity.
Self-pollination ensures reproductive success, especially in environments with limited

pollinators, but it can also reduce genetic variability in plant populations and risk to the plant-
pollinator interaction system.
10. Green Leaf Volatile

Researchers from Japan have conducted
groundbreaking research on plant-plant
communication through volatile organic
compounds (VOCs) called Green Leaf
Volatile (GLV).
Using real-time fluorescence imaging,

they visualized how plants take up VOCs
released by damaged neighbours, leading to calcium-dependent defence responses against
potential threats.
The research also revealed that guard cells, responsible for stomatal function, play a crucial role
in VOC perception.
GLVs are common constituents of herbivore-infested plant volatiles. GLVs play an important role
in plant defence.
Significance: This discovery enhances understanding of the intricate communication network

among plants for timely defence responses. The findings showcase nature's remarkable
adaptations and have broader implications beyond plant science
11. Watermeal
Scientists are conducting research on watermeal, the world's
smallest flowering plant, to explore its potential as a source of
nutrition and oxygen for astronauts.
Watermeal, known for its tiny size and floating habit on water
bodies, offers a unique subject for this research due to its
NOTES
simplicity and rapid growth rate. It lacks roots, stems, or leaves, making it an ideal candidate for
studying the effects of altered gravity on plant development.
Watermeal is not only scientifically intriguing but also has practical benefits. It is a prolific
producer of oxygen through photosynthesis and a rich source of protein. In Thailand, it has been
part of the local diet for generations.
12. Cloud Seeding
13. Microalgae
A study published in the journal Nature Microbiology has revealed that microalgae, crucial in the
ocean's food chain and carbon capture, have developed a unique strategy to adapt to global
warming and declining nutrient levels in the sea.
• As climate change reduces nutrient availability, these microalgae activate a protein called
rhodopsin, similar to the protein in the human eye responsible for vision in dim light.
• This light-responsive protein enables microalgae to thrive by using sunlight as an alternative
to traditional chlorophyll for growth.
• The study suggests that microbial rhodopsins are significant light capturers in the ocean,
potentially absorbing as much light as chlorophyll-based photosynthesis.
• As global warming leads to nutrient scarcity at the ocean's surface due to reduced mixing
between the surface and deeper waters, microalgae struggle to produce food and capture
carbon dioxide.
This mechanism may have applications in biotechnology for enhancing the activity of light-
dependent microbes for various purposes, from insulin production to biofuel.
NOTES
14. Amazon rainforest

Severe drought in the Amazon rainforest had disrupted the lives of Indigenous people, leading to
water and food shortages.
The Rio Negro, one of the world's largest rivers, has reached a record low level, causing
significant problems.
Reasons for the drought:

Two simultaneous natural events, El Nino and high sea surface temperatures, have exacerbated
the drought by reducing cloud formation and rainfall. With rising global temperatures, the
Amazon is expected to experience more frequent and severe droughts, potentially leading to
irreversible changes in the rainforest.
About Amazon Rainforests:

• The Amazon Rainforests are vast, tropical forests in South America, covering 6,000,000
square km.
• They are found within 28 degrees north or south of the equator, receiving over 200 cm of
rainfall annually.
• It plays a vital role in absorbing carbon dioxide and stabilizing the global climate and water
cycle.
• Covering about 40% of Brazil, it's bordered by the Guiana Highlands, the Andes, the Brazilian
central plateau, and the Atlantic Ocean.
• The basin is shared by eight countries and French Guiana.
15. Kelp forests

● According to a new study, Kelp forests (large brown algae seaweeds) are declining because of
climate change.
What is a Kelp Forest?
NOTES
• They are underwater ecosystems formed in shallow water.
• Kelp forests are often referred to as
"underwater rainforests" because of
their high biodiversity and productivity.
• Kelp can also persist at lower latitudes,
aided by cool water upwelling or in deep-
water refugia where they are protected by
thermocline (transition layer between the
warmer surface water and the cooler deep
water).
• Keystone Species: They provide
underwater habitats to hundreds of
species and thus have great ecological and
economic value.
• Provide Ecosystem Services: such as
coastal protection and carbon
sequestration.
• They also provide recreational and
tourism value for scuba diving, snorkelling,
and kayaking.
• Their loss will lead to a decline in the
unique biodiversity that they support.
Findings of the study:

● Kelp populations at equatorward-range edges are most vulnerable to climate change as
these locations are undergoing warming beyond thermal tolerance thresholds.
● The unique adaptive genetic diversity that the rear-edge populations (populations in warm,
low-latitudes) may contain is also under threat due to rapid warming.
What is the thermal tolerance threshold?

The ability of an organism to withstand high temperatures after prior exposure to moderate
temperatures. For example, Ecklonia radiata, the dominant and most widely distributed
Laminarian kelp in the southern hemisphere, rapidly succumb to warmer temperatures in spring
and summer when temperatures exceed 27 degrees Celsius.
16. Tipping Points

A study suggests that climate change could push up to 30% of species over tipping points as their
geographic ranges experience unforeseen temperatures.
About Tipping Points:

Description
Definition 'Tipping points' are thresholds where the earth's systems can no longer
stabilize. Crossing these points becomes more dangerous with increased
warming.
Explanation For example, the melting of Greenland's ice can reach a tipping point
where the ice loss accelerates, leading to a significant rise in sea levels.
Examples of Melting of Greenland ice; Collapse of Antarctic glaciers (resulting in sea
tipping point level rise); Destruction of Amazon forests; Melting of all permafrost, etc.
Recent Five dangerous tipping points may have already been passed due to 1.1°C
Findings of global heating caused by human activity.
NOTES
Impacts on When their geographic ranges experience unfamiliarly hot temperatures,
Animals up to 30% of species could be at risk. This can lead to habitat loss and
potential extinction. Animals may need to adapt or migrate to cooler
regions, but the short timeframe makes it challenging.
Actions Urgent action to reduce carbon emissions is crucial to mitigate harm and
Needed prevent an extinction crisis. Conservation efforts should be guided by early
warning systems to protect vulnerable species.
17. Ecological niche

An ecological niche is the right set of environmental conditions under which an animal or plant
species will thrive.
• An example of an ecological niche is that of the dung beetle. The dung beetle consumes dung
both in larval and adult forms. Dung beetles store dung balls in burrows, and females lay eggs
within them. This allows hatched
larvae immediate access to food.
Due to climate change, ecological

Niches are altering and this may have
an impact on Agriculture and
therefore we need ecological niche
modelling (using Big Data and other
computative technology).
Ecological niche modelling is a

predictive tool for identifying new
possibilities — new inhabitants for an
existing habitat, or new geographical
locations where a desirable plant may
grow well.
E.g., the modelling identified 4,200 square kilometres of new areas suitable for saffron cultivation
in places in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, North Sikkim, Imphal, Manipur and
Udagamandalam, Tamil Nadu.
Crocus sativus, the saffron plant, is propagated through underground stems called corms. It is
thought to be a native of Greece and grows best under Mediterranean climate conditions. Today,
NOTES
Iran grows nearly 90% of the world's saffron (India: 5%). The flower of the plant has three bright
crimson stigmata, which are handpicked when ready and carefully dried for commercial saffron.
18. Lakes
19. Forest fires in Uttarakhand

The chir pine belt of Uttarakhand, India, faces significant forest fire challenges.
What is Chir Pine Belt?

It refers to an area characterized by the dominance of chir pine trees (Pinus roxburghii). It is
found primarily in the state of Uttarakhand. The high presence of chir pine trees in this belt also
contributes to the susceptibility to forest fires in the area.
About the chir pine:

It is a species of pine tree that is native to the Himalayan region. It is a fast-growing evergreen
tree and forms dense forests in the sub-tropical and temperate regions of Uttarakhand.
Factors contributing to forest fire challenges in the Chir Pine Belt of Uttarakhand:
Factors Description
NOTES
High forest density Uttarakhand accounts for 1.6 per cent of India’s total geographical
area. But in terms of forest cover, the state accounts for 45 per
cent, in contrast to national forest cover of just 21.67 per cent.
High presence of Chir pine dominates the forest composition in the region. Pine trees
pine trees are rich in organic polymers, making them vulnerable to forest
fires.
Dry biomass Pine needles and other plant-based litter create fuel for fires. Dry
biomass increases the risk of fire outbreaks.
Vulnerability of The forest ecosystem in the region is dominated by narrow-leaved
narrow-leaved species like Pinus, Picea, and Abies. These species are susceptible
species to fires when exposed to low temperatures and humidity.
20. Babool
21. Wild orchids of North Bengal

The wild orchids of North Bengal, known for their beauty, fragrance, and medicinal properties,
are disappearing due to deforestation in their natural habitat.
About Orchids:
Description
NOTES
Orchids are a diverse group of flowering plants known for their vibrant
and intricate flowers. They belong to the family Orchidaceae.
Regions Orchids can be found in various habitats around the world, including
tropical rainforests, mountains, and even deserts. India has over 1200
species of Orchids (388 are endemic to India, out of which 128 are endemic
to the Western Ghats)
Three Types of Epiphytic: They are plants growing on another plant including those
Orchids growing on rock boulders and are often termed lithophytes. About 60% of
all orchids found in India are epiphytic.
Terrestrial: They are plants growing on land and climbers. These grow
directly on the soil and are found in large numbers in temperate and alpine
regions.
Mycoheterotrophic: They are plants which derive nutrients from
mycorrhizal fungi that are attached to the roots of a vascular plant.
Distribution Himalayan Zone: Richest in orchid species
Northeast India: Highest species concentration
Western Ghats: High endemism of orchids
Highest Number of Orchid Species: Arunachal Pradesh> Sikkim> West
Bengal
International Orchid family listed under Appendix II of CITES, banning global trade of wild
Protection orchids
Uses Aesthetic importance; Herbal medicine; Cultural and spiritual importance;
Vanilla is produced from Vanilla planifolia orchid
22. Baobab trees
NOTES
Renewable Energy
1. Biohydrogen and India’s green hydrogen pathway
The key difference between biohydrogen and green hydrogen is in their sources of production:
• Biohydrogen: Derived from biological sources such as biogas, and often considered a form of
renewable hydrogen due to its environmentally friendly conversion process.
o Biohydrogen is hydrogen produced from biological sources, typically through biogas
reforming. It converts biogas (CH4 and CO2) into hydrogen, often referred to as
syngas or bio-hydrogen
• Green Hydrogen: Produced through the electrolysis of water using renewable energy sources
like solar or wind power, and is considered the purest form of clean hydrogen.
Definition of Green Hydrogen:

In August 2023, the Union Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, Government of India, provided
a definition for green hydrogen, specifying it as having a well-to-gate emission (encompassing
water treatment, electrolysis, gas purification, drying and compression of hydrogen) not
exceeding 2 kg CO2 equivalent per kg H2. In contrast, grey hydrogen, on average, emits 10 kg of
CO2 per kg of H2 produced.
Nodal Agency: The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) (under the Union Ministry of Power) is the
nodal authority responsible for accrediting agencies for monitoring, verifying and certifying green
hydrogen production projects.
Government Initiatives for Bio and Green Hydrogen:

Initiative Key Points
Global Biofuel Leading efforts to establish global standards for hydrogen from biomass.
Alliance
National Targeting a production increase to 5 million metric tonnes (MMT) by 2030,
Hydrogen meeting 40% of domestic requirements.
Mission
Green Development of Green Hydrogen Production Capacity of at least 5
Hydrogen MMT (Million Metric Tonne) per annum; Renewable energy
Mission capacity addition of about 125 GW in the country by 2030
Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT): Funding
domestic electrolyser manufacturing and green hydrogen production.
Green Hydrogen Hubs: Identifying and developing states/regions for large-
scale hydrogen production/utilization.
Strategic Hydrogen Innovation Partnership (SHIP): Under this Public-
private partnership framework R&D will be facilitated under the mission.
2. Biofuels
● Biofuels are liquid or gaseous fuels primarily produced from biomass, and can be used to
replace or can be used in addition to diesel, petrol or other fossil fuels for transport and other
applications.
● Crops used to make biofuels are generally either high in sugar (such as sugarcane, sugarbeet),
starch (such as maize and tapioca) or oils (such as soybean, rapeseed, coconut, sunflower).
Categories of biofuels:
NOTES
● 1st-generation biofuels are made from sugar, starch, vegetable oil, or animal fats using
conventional technology.
● 2nd generation biofuels are produced from non-food crops, such as cellulosic biofuels and
waste biomass (stalks of wheat and corn, and wood).
● 3rd generation biofuels are produced from microorganisms like algae.
Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) is produced naturally through the process of anaerobic

decomposition (without oxygen) of biomass sources like crop residue, cattle dung, sugarcane
press mud, sewage treatment plant waste, etc.
• It has the potential to replace Compressed Natural Gas in automotive, industrial, and
commercial uses in the future.
3. Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blend

India successfully flew its first commercial passenger flight using an indigenously produced
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blend.
What is Sustainable Aviation Fuel?

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is a type of aviation fuel that is produced from renewable sources,
unlike traditional fossil-based jet fuels. It is considered sustainable because it has a significantly
lower carbon footprint and reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional jet fuel.
Source of SAF: It can be derived from various feedstocks, such as plant oils, agricultural waste,
forestry residues, and municipal solid waste.
Advantages: SAF can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional
jet fuel. Also, it is designed to be a drop-in replacement for conventional jet fuel, meaning it can
be used in existing aircraft engines without requiring modifications.
Significance for India: It is a significant milestone in India's efforts towards achieving net-zero
emissions by 2070. India has set a target of becoming energy self-reliant by 2047
NOTES
Species Discovery / Species Sighted / Species Extinct
1. Blue Dragon
Scientists have discovered a new mosasaur, named Wakayama Soryu, in Japan that lived 72
million years ago.
• Dubbed the "blue dragon," this marine predator, comparable in size to a great white shark,
was found with unique features such as long rear flippers and a shark-like dorsal fin.
• Researchers believe these traits enhanced its agility and speed in the water.
• Classified as Megapterygius wakayamaensis, the mosasaur challenges existing ideas about
marine reptile locomotion and offers insights into the diversity and evolution of mosasaurs.
• The naming as "blue dragon" reflects its cultural significance in Japanese folklore.
• Mosasaurs, apex predators of the late Cretaceous period, coexisted with dinosaurs and
became extinct due to a mass extinction event caused by an asteroid impact.
2. Namdapha flying squirrel

The Namdapha flying
squirrel, missing for 42
years, has been
rediscovered in Arunachal
Pradesh.
Last described in 1981, the

species was thought to be
extinct or confused with a
similar species.
About Namdapha Flying

Squirrel
It is classified as Critically
Endangered (CR) by the
IUCN and is listed under
Schedule II of the Wildlife
Protection Act. Located in
Namdapha National Park,
Arunachal Pradesh, it was
one of the 25 "most
wanted lost" species
targeted by the Global
Wildlife Conservation's
"Search for Lost Species" initiative.
3. Music frog
Scientists have identified a new species of 'music frog,' named
Nidirana noadihing, in Arunachal Pradesh.
• This unique discovery is marked by the distinct feature that
both male and female frogs are vocal.
• The frogs emit a distinctive call pattern consisting of two to
three notes, resembling the sounds of wild duck species.
• The male frogs, characterized by their robust bodies, were
observed calling loudly in various locations, including marshy areas, the edges of a newly
constructed pond, and along a nearby road.
• The frog is named after the Noa-Dihing River where it was found.
NOTES
The findings confirm the presence of the Nidirana genus in India for the first time, with previous
known occurrences in Japan, Taiwan, China, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand.
4. Attenborough echidna
The Zaglossus attenboroughi, a long-beaked
echidna named after David Attenborough and last
seen in 1961, has been rediscovered in a remote
region of Indonesia.
• This elusive creature, known for its nocturnal
and reclusive nature, was found in the
Cyclops Mountains of Papua, Indonesia.
• The discovery also revealed a tree-dwelling
shrimp, a kind of honeyeater bird unseen
since 2008, and several previously unknown
underground species.
Attenborough Namesake Species: Sir David Attenborough has various species named after him,
including an extinct plesiosaur, a Tasmanian snail, a gecko from Australia, and a carnivorous
pitcher plant from the Philippines.
About David Attenborough:

David Attenborough, the esteemed British naturalist and broadcaster, is known for his extensive
contributions to natural history and environmental conservation. He's been the face of several
ground-breaking wildlife documentaries and series that explore the wonders of the natural
world. Attenborough's work emphasizes the urgency of conservation and educates the global
audience on the beauty and importance of the world's ecosystems. He's received numerous
awards and honours for his work and has had various species named after him in recognition of
his dedication to the field of biology and palaeontology
5. Fish that can change colour - Badis limaakumi

Scientists have discovered a new fish species called Badis limaakumi in the Milak River in
Nagaland, India.
• This species, named after Limaakum, an assistant professor and head of the zoology
department at Fazl Ali College, Nagaland, is unique in that it can change its colour similar to
a chameleon.
About Badis limaakumi:

• Badis limaakumi belongs to the Badidae family and is a
freshwater fish commonly found in streams with slow or
moderate water flow.
• It is also found in ditches and stagnant water bodies in
various countries, including India, Bangladesh, Nepal,
Pakistan, Thailand, and Myanmar.
• The new species differs from other members of its family due to distinctive features, such as
a dark opercular blotch at the base of its opercular spine and the absence of spots on its
sides and cleithrum.
• Fish from the Badis family are known as chameleon fish because of their remarkable ability
to change colour, which helps them blend with their surroundings when under stress.
NOTES
6. Laughing gull
A Laughing Gull, a migratory bird native to North America,
has been sighted for the first time in India.
The bird is known for its unique laughter-like calls,

resembling human laughter.
Protection Status:
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern.
CITES and CMS Status: Not Evaluated
Range: They are most common on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of North America,
the Caribbean, Central America and northern South America.
7. Lesser flamingos
NOTES
Pollution
1. Acid Rain
Aspect Description
What is acid rain 1) Acid rain is rain with high levels of acidic substances like sulfuric acid
and how does it or nitric acid. 2) It forms when emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and
form? nitrogen oxides (NOx) released from burning fossil fuels, industries,
and human activities mix with water vapour and chemicals in the air. 3)
These acidic pollutants combine with water droplets in the
atmosphere and then fall to the ground as rain, snow, fog, or dry
particles. 4) The pH of acid rain is usually between 4.2 and 4.4
Effects of acid rain 1) Damage to vegetation: Acid rain leaches nutrients, weakens plants,
on the environment reduces water absorption, and stunts growth. It led to reduced crop
yields and plant fatalities. 2) Harm to aquatic ecosystems: Acid rain
lowers the pH of water bodies. It harms aquatic life by damaging gills,
reducing reproduction, and altering food availability. 3) Soil
degradation: Acid rain can disrupt soil chemistry by leaching away
essential nutrients like calcium and magnesium, which are crucial for
plant growth. It can also release toxic metals such as aluminium from
the soil, further damaging plants and aquatic life.
Efforts to minimize 1) Coal power plants have reduced the sulfur dioxide (SO2) content in
the effects their atmospheric emissions by more than 90% using flue-gas
desulfurization. 2) The Acid Deposition Monitoring Network in East
Asia (EANET) operates to address this issue.
Acid Deposition It is an intergovernmental initiative (started in 2001; Secretariat: UN
Monitoring Environment Programme Asia Pacific) among East Asian countries to
Network in East monitor and collect data on the deposition of acid substances, such as
Asia (EANET) sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, in the atmosphere and their
subsequent impact on the environment.
Other programme Monitoring programs like the National Atmospheric Deposition
Program and the Clean Air Status and Trends Network track acid rain's
environmental impact, aiding policymakers and researchers
2. Greenhouse gases (GHGs)

Greenhouse gases (GHGs) are gases in the Earth's atmosphere that trap heat. They contribute to
the greenhouse effect, which is essential for maintaining the planet's temperature within a range
suitable for life.
NOTES
However, human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, have
significantly increased the concentrations of these gases, leading to an enhanced greenhouse
effect and global warming. The major greenhouse gases include:
• Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Methane (CH4), Nitrous Oxide (N2O), Water Vapor, Ozone (O3),
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless gas, slightly less dense than air. It's produced
from incomplete combustion of hydrocarbons, like fossil fuels, wood, and vehicle exhaust. CO is
toxic as it displaces oxygen in the blood. In the atmosphere, it's short-lived and contributes to
ground-level ozone formation.
3. Noise Pollution
It is generally defined as regular exposure to elevated sound levels that may lead to adverse
effects in humans or other living organisms. According to the World Health Organization, noise
above 65 decibels (dB) is defined as noise pollution. To be precise, noise becomes harmful when
it exceeds 75 decibels (dB) and is painful above 120 dB.
Impact of Noise Pollution on Human Health:

Impact Description
Hypertension Prolonged exposure to elevated noise levels can lead to
hypertension (high blood pressure), increasing the risk of
cardiovascular diseases. More than 75 dB in offices is associated
with hypertension.
Hearing Loss Noise pollution from various sources, including loud music and
workplace noise, can directly cause hearing loss. Extended
exposure to high-decibel noise can damage delicate ear
structures.
Sleep Disturbances Constant traffic noise at night can disrupt sleep patterns, leading
to sleep disturbances. Above 50 dB at night could increase
cortisol levels ('stress hormone').
Cardiovascular Elevated blood pressure due to noise pollution, especially at
Dysfunction night, can contribute to various cardiovascular diseases, including
heart attacks and strokes.
Dementia While not a direct cause, noise pollution can exacerbate or
contribute to the onset of dementia. Chronic noise exposure
increases stress levels, associated with dementia risk.
Psychological Noise annoyance, an emotional reaction to continuous noise
Dysfunctions and Noise exposure, can lead to stress, irritability, anxiety, and other
Annoyance psychological dysfunctions.
Impact on the ecosystem:

• Impact on Wildlife: Noise pollution disrupts natural ecosystems by affecting wildlife.
o For instance, loud noises from construction sites and urban areas can interfere with
the communication and breeding habits of birds and other animals. This can lead to
population declines and ecological imbalances.
• Impact on Animal health: Research shows noise causes confined animals pain, fear and
cognitive problems. For example in fish, vibrations from extreme noise can damage the swim
bladder which in turn impacts their hearing and buoyancy
• Marine Life: Underwater noise pollution from shipping, sonar, and industrial activities can
harm marine life.
o Whales and dolphins, which rely on echolocation to communicate and find food, are
particularly vulnerable.
NOTES
• Loss of Biodiversity: Noise pollution can drive some species away from their habitats, leading
to a loss of biodiversity. This is especially concerning in India, a country known for its rich and
diverse wildlife.
What are the regulations regarding noise pollution?

• The Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules 2000 under the Environment Protection
Act 1986 mandate that firecrackers cannot be used in ‘silence zones’, and anywhere after 10
PM.
• Section 2 (a) of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 considers noise as ‘air
pollutant’.
• From 6 AM to 10 PM, firecracker noise cannot exceed 75 dB. The thresholds in commercial
and residential areas are 65 dB and 55 dB, respectively.
• The rules allow people to register a complaint if the noise overshoots by 10 dB during
daytime.
• Central Pollution Control Board has listed fines for the violation of noise pollution norms,
including the use of loudspeakers or public addresses that can result in a fine of Rs 10,000.
o Exemption: The state government can provide exemption during any cultural or
religious festive occasion of a limited duration not exceeding 15 days in all during a
calendar year.
4. Micro Plastics
These are tiny pieces of plastic that are less than 5 millimetres in length.
NOTES
Global Initiatives:
• Global Partnership on Marine Litter (GPML) to develop policies to control marine
litter and pollution
• GloLitter Partnerships Project was launched by the IMO and FAO to prevent marine plastic
litter from shipping and fisheries
• London Convention, 1972: To control all
sources of marine pollution and prevent • The India Plastics Pact is an
pollution of the sea ambitious, collaborative initiative
• Plastic Pact (2018) to transform the plastics that aims to bring together
packaging value chain for all formats and businesses, governments and NGOs
products to reduce, reuse, and recycle
• Beat plastic pollution plastics in their value chain.
• The Pact aims to transform the
India-Specific Initiatives: current linear plastics system into a
• Elimination of Single Use Plastic: Plastic Waste circular plastics economy.
Management (Amendment) Rules 2018 • The India Plastics Pact aims to
introduced Extended Producer Responsibility promote public-private
(EPR). collaborations that enable solutions
• Un-Plastic Collective (UPC) (a voluntary to eliminate the plastic waste
initiative launched by the UNEP-India, CII and problem in India and bring
WWF-India) to minimise the externalities of innovation to the way plastic is
plastics on the ecological and social health of designed, used and reused.
our planet.
NOTES
5. Mercury contamination
Tropical birds in Central and South America are exhibiting signs of mercury contamination due
to artisanal and small-scale gold mining operations, according to a new study.
• Birds living within 7 km of gold mining activity were found to have mercury concentrations
over four times higher than those in other areas.
Why mercury is used in Gold mining?

Mercury is used in gold mining because it forms an amalgam with gold, allowing for the
extraction of gold from ore. This amalgamation process is a simple and effective way to capture
fine gold particles, but it also leads to significant environmental and health concerns due to
mercury pollution.
Key Findings:
• The research suggests that mercury may be playing a role in the declining biodiversity of
tropical birds, which has been observed in recent decades.
Mercury contamination has been linked to neurological illness, immune diseases, and
reproductive failure in both humans and birds. Birds are considered sensitive indicators of
ecosystem health and are often referred to as the "canary in the gold mine" for their ability to
signal environmental issues.
6. Greenwashing
NOTES
7. Hirakund Wetland
A study has revealed high levels of cancer-causing heavy metals, including lead and chromium, in
eight wetlands in Odisha, with Hirakud being one of them.
Hirakud Reservoir (Ramsar Site)

It is the largest earthen dam in Odisha and started operating in 1957. Out of the known 54
species of fish from the reservoir, one has been classed as being endangered, six near
threatened and 21 fish species of economic importance. It also provides important hydrological
services by moderating floods in the Mahanadi Delta, the ecological and socio-economic hub of
the east coast of India.
8. Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)

POPs are chemicals that remain intact in the environment for long periods, become widely
distributed geographically, accumulate in the fatty tissue of living organisms and are toxic to
human beings and wildlife. POPs travel globally and can cause damage wherever they travel.
Exposure to POPs can lead to cancer, damage to central & peripheral nervous systems, diseases
of immune system, reproductive disorders and interference with normal infant and child
development.
Uniqueness of POPs:
• POPs are lipophilic, which means that they accumulate in the fatty tissue of living animals and
human beings.
• In fatty tissue, the concentrations can become magnified by up to 70 000 times higher than
the background levels.
• As you move up the food chain, concentrations of POPs tend to increase so that animals at
the top of the food chain such as fish, predatory birds, mammals, and humans tend to have
the greatest concentrations of these chemicals.
The Stockholm Convention, ratified by India on 13.01.2006, is a global treaty to protect human
health and environment from Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). The Convention that entered
into force of 17th May, 2004, lays down that in its implementation, Governments will take
measures to eliminate or reduce the release of POPs into the environment.
A Global Environment Facility (GEF) has been set up as an interim financial mechanism, to assist
the developing countries in implementation of the Convention.
Other similar treaties are:

• Basel Convention on the control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and
their Disposal (1989)
• Rotterdam Convention on Prior Informed Consent Procedures (PIC) that entered into force
on 24th February, 2004, is a legally binding instrument, which was adopted on 10th
September 1998 by a Conference of Plenipotentiaries in Rotterdam. India acceded to the
Convention on 24.05.2006. The Convention seeks to promote shared responsibility and
cooperative efforts among State Parties in the international trade of certain hazardous
chemicals in order to protect human health and the environment from potential harm.
9. Light pollution
● Light pollution is excessive, misdirected or obtrusive artificial (usually outdoor) light that
obstructs starlight in the night sky, interferes with astronomical research, disrupts
ecosystems, has adverse health effects and wastes energy.
NOTES
● Visible light emitted by many sources (except lasers) is divergent, so the light emitted could
find its way into the sky.
● Almost all surfaces in cities also reflect light, Components of light pollution include:
meaning a portion of entirely down-cast light • Glare – excessive brightness that
will be reflected upwards, contributing to night causes visual discomfort
time light pollution. • Skyglow – brightening of the night
sky over inhabited areas
What is the situation in India? • Light trespass – light falling where
● 19.5% of India’s population experiences a level it is not intended or needed
of skyglow that keeps the Milky Way out of sight • Clutter – bright, confusing, and
and makes it impossible for human eyes to excessive groupings of light sources
adjust to the dark.
● The effects include stimulating the cone cells (which activate in a well-lit environment/during
the day) in human eyes.
● In 2022 Ladakh administration created the
What are the consequences? Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR), the first
● Harms wildlife and disrupts ecosystems: International Dark Sky Reserve in India.
Light pollution poses a serious threat in ● The HDSR comprises six hamlets within
particular to nocturnal wildlife, having the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary.
negative impacts on plant and animal ● The reserve had a responsibility to keep
physiology. For example, the skies dark, particularly for the
○ It can confuse the migratory astronomical observatories located in the
patterns of animals. area.
○ It interferes with multiple aspects
of insect life and allows insect What is a Dark Sky Reserve?
predators to hunt for longer. • An area designated as free from light
○ Parties to the Convention on pollution.
Migratory Species have adopted • It’s a public or private land possessing an
guidelines to address this issue. exceptional or distinguished quality of
● Adverse effects on human health: It can starry nights and nocturnal environment
disturb circadian rhythms and the that is specifically protected for its
production of melatonin, leading to sleep scientific, natural, educational, cultural,
disorders and other health problems heritage and/or public enjoyment.
(increased risk of breast cancer).
10. Methane
• Methane is short-
lived, compared to
carbon dioxide.
• Methane has more
than 80 times the
warming power of
carbon dioxide over
the first 20 years of
its lifetime in the
atmosphere.
• The common sources
of methane are oil
and natural gas
systems, agricultural
activities, coal mining
and wastes.
NOTES
Climate Change
1. Tropicalisation
Climate change is causing a significant global phenomenon known as tropicalisation, where
tropical species in the ocean are moving towards the poles, while temperate species are
retreating.
• This mass movement of marine life is driven by rising sea temperatures and marine heat
waves due to climate change.
• The trend is observed in areas with strong currents away from the equator, leading to
consequences for ecosystems, biodiversity, and potential impacts on the global economy.
• The socio-economic impacts vary by region, influencing global fisheries, carbon storage, and
tourism.
2. Climate change and migratory species

The “Climate Change & Migratory Species: A Review of Impacts, Conservation Actions, indicators
and Ecosystem Services” report has been released by the Conservation of Migratory Species of
Wild Animals (CMS)
Migratory species play a crucial role in ecosystems, offering essential services that mitigate
climate change impacts and enhance resilience to climatic hazards. Examples include whales
aiding nutrient transfer and storing carbon, and antelopes reducing wildfire risks through
grazing. Climate change poses severe threats to migratory species, impacting their habitats,
migration patterns, and reproductive success
About CMS:
The Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) (enforced since 1983; HQ: Bonn (Germany), also
known as the Bonn Convention, is an environmental treaty of the United Nations (UNEP provides
support) that provides a global platform for the conservation and sustainable use of terrestrial,
aquatic and avian migratory animals and their habitats. It has 133 members including India. It
consists of two appendices: Appendix I (migratory species that are in danger of extinction) and
Appendix II (Migratory species that will benefit from conservation)
NOTES
Events / Celebrations
1. World Soil Day (WSD)
• It is observed annually on December 5, emphasising the significance of healthy soil and
advocating for sustainable soil management.
• Proposed by the International Union of Soil Sciences in 2002, it was formally established
under the Global Soil Partnership, with FAO's support.
• The UN General Assembly designated December 5, 2014, as the first official World Soil Day,
commemorating the late King of Thailand Bhumibol Adulyadej's commitment to sustainable
soil management.
• The theme for 2023 is "Soil and Water: A Source of Life."
2. Earth Overshoot Day

This is marked as the day when humanity has exhausted nature’s budget for the year. In 2023 it
fell on August 2nd.
It is calculated by Global Footprint Network (an international research organization)
Each year, Earth Overshoot Day marks the date when we have used all the biological resources
that the Earth can renew during the entire year.
How is it computed?
Earth Overshoot Day is computed by dividing the planet’s bio capacity (the amount of ecological
resources Earth is able to generate that year), by humanity’s Ecological Footprint (humanity’s
demand for that year), and multiplying by 365, the number of days in a year.
What is Ecological Footprint?

It is a metric that comprehensively compares human demand on nature against nature’s capacity
to regenerate.
3. World Biodiversity Day 2023
NOTES
4. International Leopard Day 2023
NOTES
Reports / Release
1. Global Cooling Watch 2023
The Global Cooling Watch 2023 report by UNEP highlights pathways to achieve near-zero
emissions from cooling.
About the Report

It focuses on three key measures: passive cooling, higher-energy efficiency standards, and a
faster phase-down of climate-warming refrigerants. Aligned with the Global Cooling Pledge, the
report aims to reduce cooling-related emissions and promote sustainable cooling. It recommends
incorporating these measures into building codes and utilizing financial instruments to drive
demand for higher-efficiency products.
In 2016, over 150 countries signed the Kigali Amendment (including India) to the Montreal
Protocol, agreeing to reduce HFC consumption by 80% by 2047.
India Cooling Action Plan (launched in 2019)

It seeks to Reduce cooling demand across sectors by 20% to 25% by 2037-38, and refrigerant
demand by 25% to 30% by 2037-38.
2. 2023 Adaptation Gap Report

Adaptation Gap Report 2023 released by the United Nations Environment Programme
What is an Adaptation Gap?

The Adaptation Gap is the difference between the funds needed to adapt to climate change in
countries (generally developing and least developed countries) and the actual financial support
received. For instance, developing countries require $215-387 billion annually for climate
adaptation, but they are only receiving about $21 billion.
NOTES
International Efforts / Organisations
1. Bio Credits
There is growing momentum behind the concept of biodiversity credits or bio-credits, proposed
as a financial mechanism to support the targets outlined in the Kunming-Montreal Global
Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) adopted in 2022.
What is Bio-Credits?
Bio-credits are financial instruments proposed to support the targets outlined in the Kunming-
Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Similar to carbon credits, bio-credits aim to generate
funds for biodiversity protection and restoration by selling credits, with proceeds directed
toward conservation projects.
Organizations Involved:
The Biodiversity Credit Alliance was launched (in COP15 of CBD, 2022) to promote bio credits.
Other initiatives, such as the Ocean Conservation Commitments, have emerged to encourage the
use of Bio-credits.
About KMGBF:
Event Details
Conference 15th Conference of Parties (COP15) to the UN Convention on Biological
Name Diversity (CBD), 2022 adopted Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity
Framework (GBF)
Goals of GBF Restore 30% of degraded ecosystems globally (on land and sea) by 2030
Conserve and manage 30% of areas (terrestrial, inland water, coastal, and
marine) by 2030
Prevent the extinction of known species
Reduce various environmental risks and footprints
Targets of 23 targets for achievement by 2030, including the 30x30 Deal, reduction of
GBF pesticide and nutrient risks, pollution control, sustainable consumption,
climate change mitigation, invasive species control, and wildlife trade
management
Need for Bio- The KMGBF targets private investment through innovative schemes like bio
Credit credits, with an estimated annual need of at least $200 billion for biodiversity
protection.
2. Wetland City Accreditation (WCA)

The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has nominated Indore,
Bhopal, and Udaipur for Wetland City Accreditation (WCA) under the Ramsar Convention on
Wetlands. It is the first nomination of its kind by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate
Change (MoEFCC).
• Ramsar Site in Indore: Sirpur Wetland, Yashwant Sagar (Ramsar site closer to Indore)
• Ramsar Site in Bhopal: Bhoj Wetland
• Ramsar Site in and around Udaipur: Five major wetlands — Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Rang
Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, and Doodh Talai
About WCA and Ramsar sites:

About Wetland City It is a voluntary accreditation system to recognize the importance of
Accreditation (WCA) wetlands in urban and peri-urban environments.
Origin: Outcome of Ramsar Convention during COP12 in 2015.
Objective: Promote the conservation and wise use of wetlands, as
well as sustainable socio-economic benefits for local populations
NOTES
Significance: Provides international recognition and branding for
wetland conservation efforts. It will also help in the implementation of
the Amrit Dharohar Initiative (to conserve Ramsar Sites in India)
Validity: Once granted it is valid for 6 years.
What are Wetlands? Definition: Areas of marsh, fen, peatland, or water, natural or
artificial, static or flowing, with fresh, brackish, or saltwater.
Ramsar Convention It is an Intergovernmental treaty in 1971 at Ramsar (Iran). It provides
the framework for conservation and wise use of wetlands and
resources.
172 contracting parties to the Ramsar Convention as of January 2024,
with India having declared 80 wetland sites as of January 2024.
Montreux Record: Register of Ramsar Sites needing urgent attention,
launched in 1990.
India's Largest Sundarbans in West Bengal, covering around 11,000 square
Ramsar Site: kilometres, are vital habitat for Bengal tigers.
The state with the Tamil Nadu has the highest number of Ramsar Sites in India with 16
highest number Ramsar Sites.
3. Green Fuels Alliance India (GFAI)

Denmark has introduced the Green Fuels Alliance India (GFAI) to enhance collaboration with
India in the sustainable energy sector, aligning with both nations' goals of achieving carbon
neutrality.
Aim: It aims to advance the green fuels sector, including green hydrogen, through innovation
and partnerships. GFAI's objective is to foster an ecosystem promoting sustainable energy
growth in India, involving businesses, government entities, and research institutions.
Background:
The initiative is part of the Green Strategic Partnership signed in 2020 between India and
Denmark. The announcement coincides with India's push for carbon neutrality by 2070 and
Denmark's top ranking in the 2024 Climate Performance Ranking.
Other similar partnership initiatives:

1. Global Biofuels Alliance forged by Brazil, India, and the United States
2. India U.S.-India Strategic Clean Energy Partnership
3. Green / Clean Hydrogen India and Saudi Arabia
4. India-Australia Green Hydrogen Taskforce
5. Quad’s Climate Working Group for Clean Energy
4. Arctic Report Card for 2023

The Arctic Report Card for 2023, published by NOAA, reveals the Arctic experiencing its warmest
summer on record, with temperatures rising four times faster than elsewhere.
India’s engagement in the Arctic:

• India’s engagement with the Arctic began when it signed the Svalbard Treaty in February
1920 in Paris between Norway, the US, Denmark, France, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Great
Britain, and Ireland, and the British overseas Dominions and Sweden concerning Spitsbergen.
Ever since then, India has been closely monitoring all the developments in the Arctic region.
• India initiated its Arctic research program in 2007 with a focus on climate change in the
region. The objectives included studying teleconnections between the Arctic climate and the
Indian monsoon, to characterize sea ice in the Arctic using satellite data, and to estimate the
effect on global warming.
NOTES
• India already has a research station in the Arctic, Himadri, for the research work.
India’s Year-round Presence in Arctic

India has launched its first winter expedition to Himadri, its Arctic Research Station at Ny-
Ålesund in the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard. The station, which was previously operational
for about 180 days annually, will now remain operational throughout the year. This move makes
India one of the few countries to operate its Arctic research bases during winter.
India's first Arctic Winter Expedition, led by the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research
(NCPOR), will begin year-round observations in Svalbard, the world's northernmost inhabited
place. Challenges include limited space, harsh climate, and geopolitical complications. The
expedition aims to better understand climate change, polar-tropical climate teleconnections,
and impacts on India's weather patterns.
About NOAA:
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (HQ: Washington, D.C.; Founded: 1970) is
based scientific and regulatory agency within the United States Department of Commerce, a
United States federal government department.
About Arctic Report Card:

It is issued annually since 2006, and provides timely, peer-reviewed information on the current
state of various components of the Arctic environmental system in comparison to historical
records.
5. IUCN Red List Updation 2023

The latest update to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species reveals that climate change poses
a threat to numerous species, including Atlantic salmon and green turtles.
• The report, released at the COP28 UN climate conference, also includes the first global
assessment of freshwater fish.
IUCN is a membership union uniquely composed of both government and civil society
organisations. Created in 1948 and headquartered in Switzerland, it is the global authority on the
status of the natural world and the measures needed to safeguard it.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species, also known
as the IUCN Red List or Red Data Book, founded in 1964, is the world's most comprehensive
inventory of the global conservation status of biological species.
How are species categorised?

It uses a set of quantitative
criteria to evaluate the
extinction risk of thousands of
species.
The IUCN Red List Categories:

● The IUCN Red List
Categories define the
extinction risk of species assessed. Nine categories extend from NE (Not Evaluated) to EX
(Extinct).
● Critically Endangered (CR), Endangered (EN) and Vulnerable (VU) species are considered to be
threatened with extinction.
Utility of the red list:
NOTES
● It brings into focus the ongoing decline of Earth’s biodiversity and the influence humans have
on life on the planet. It provides a globally accepted standard with which to measure the
conservation status of species over time.
● Scientists can analyze the percentage of species in a given category and how these
percentages change over time; they can also analyze the threats and conservation measures
that underpin the observed trends.
6. 2024 is the International Year Of Camelids

The United Nations has
declared 2024 as the
International Year of
Camelids to emphasize the
significant importance of
camelids, such as alpacas,
Bactrian camels,
dromedaries, guanacos,
llamas, and vicuñas, in the
lives of people worldwide.
• Camelids contribute to
food security,
nutrition, and
economic growth in
over 90 countries,
especially for
Indigenous Peoples
and local
communities.
• They play a crucial role
in meeting Sustainable
Development Goals
(SDGs) by providing
sources of milk, meat,
fibre, and
transportation.
The International Year of Camelids 2024 aims to raise awareness of their untapped potential and
encourage increased investment in the camelid sector, promoting research, capacity
development, and innovative practices and technologies.
7. United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF)

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change is hosting a Country-Led Initiative (CLI)
event as part of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF) at the Forest Research Institute in
Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
About the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF):

About: The UNFF is an intergovernmental policy forum that promotes the
management, conservation, and sustainable development of all types
of forests and aims to strengthen long-term political commitment to
this end.
Establishment: UNFF was established in 2000 by the UN Economic and Social Council.
It has universal membership and is composed of all Member States of
the United Nations.
NOTES
Major Related 1992: UN Conference on Environment and Development adopts the
Events related to "Forest Principles" and Agenda 21.
the forest: Intergovernmental Panel on Forests (1995) and Intergovernmental
Forum on Forests (1997) were established to implement the Forest
Principles from 1995 to 2000
2000: UNFF is established as a functional commission of the UN
Economic and Social Council
2006: UNFF agrees on four Global Objectives for Forests
2007: UNFF adopts the UN Non-Legally Binding Instrument on All
Types of Forests (Forest Instrument)
2009: UNFF adopts a decision on financing for sustainable forest
management, calling for the creation of a Facilitative Process to assist
countries in reversing a 20-year decline in forest financing, with an
initial focus on Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Low Forest
Cover Countries (LFCCs).
2011: The International Year of Forests, "Forests for People"
The Four Global Reverse the loss of forest cover worldwide through sustainable forest
Objectives on management (SFM)
Forests: Enhance forest-based economic, social, and environmental benefits
Increase significantly the area of sustainably managed forests
Reverse the decline in official development assistance for SFM and
mobilize increased financial resources for the implementation of SFM.
8. Alliance for Transformative Action on Climate and Health (ATACH)

The World Health Organization (WHO) has introduced an Operational Framework for
constructing climate-resilient and low-carbon health systems. Framework is important to
implement the Alliance for Transformative Action on Climate and Health (ATACH) goals.
What are climate-resilient and low-carbon health systems?

Climate-resilient and low-carbon health systems are designed to withstand the impacts of climate
change while minimizing their carbon footprint.
What is ATACH?
It is a WHO initiative, established in 2022, and is an informal voluntary network which works to
realize the ambition set at COP26 to build climate-resilient and sustainable health systems.
9. Self-Declaration of Freedom from Avian Influenza

The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has approved India's self-declaration of
freedom from Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in specific poultry compartments.
• This is a significant development for India's poultry industry and reflects the country's
commitment to maintaining high animal health and biosecurity standards.
• Compartmentalization, a strategy used to establish and maintain groups of animals with
specific health statuses, played a key role in this achievement.
• India adopted the concept of poultry compartmentalization as a crucial tool to reduce the
risk of disease outbreaks and facilitate the trade of poultry and poultry-related products.
India, one of the top producers of eggs and poultry meat globally, is poised to capitalize on this
achievement, potentially opening up new opportunities in the global market.
NOTES
10. Global Greenhouse Gas Watch
The World Meteorological Congress - the supreme decision-making body of WMO, approved (in
its 19th session) a new greenhouse gas (GHG) monitoring initiative - Global Greenhouse Gas
Watch.
Background: In 2022, the WMO Executive Council decided to develop an architecture for a global
Greenhouse Gas Monitoring Infrastructure to build on and expand WMO’s long-standing
activities in GHG monitoring.
The Global Greenhouse Gas Watch (G3W): It aims to establish internationally coordinated
monitoring of GHG fluxes (top-down) to support the provision of actionable information to the
UNFCCC Parties and other stakeholders
11. International Climate Action in Civil Aviation
12. Innovative Finance Facility for Climate in Asia and the Pacific (IF-CAP)
program
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has announced the Innovative Finance Facility for Climate in
Asia and the Pacific (IF-CAP) program to accelerate climate change financing in the region.
NOTES
Parameter Details
IF-CAP is the first-of-its-kind multi-donor financing partnership facility with the goal of
scaling-up finance for accelerated action against climate change in Asia and the Pacific.
Launch Announced on 2 May 2023
Owner Asian Development Bank (ADB)
Initial Partners Denmark, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and
the United States
Benefits 1. The multiplier effect of up to $5 in much-needed climate finance
for every $1 of guarantees (model of ‘$1 in, $5 out’)
2. Financing will help vulnerable countries in Asia and the Pacific
region meet their mitigation and adaptation goals.
3. Support ADB’s raised ambition for $100 billion in climate finance
from 2019-2030.
Financing Global Environment Facility (GEF), Green Climate Fund (GCF), Adaptation
Mechanisms Fund, and Loss and Damage Fund
Funding Bilateral and multilateral sources, the private sector, and philanthropies
Sources including the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet
About ADB The Asian Development Bank (est. 1966; HQ: Manila, Phillippines) is a
regional development bank committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive,
resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific while sustaining its efforts to
eradicate extreme poverty.
NOTES
Protocols / Conventions
1. Important outcomes of COP28
• COP28 is the 28th annual United Nations (UN) climate meeting, which took place from
November 30 to December 12, 2023 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).
• COP stands for the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change.
• The conference is where governments discuss how to prepare for and limit future climate
change.
Important outcomes of COP28:

Highlights Description
Loss and Damage COP28 countries agreed to launch the Loss and Damage (L&D) fund,
(L&D) Fund hosted by the World Bank for four years, aligning with UNFCCC and
the Paris Agreement. All developing countries are eligible, and
contributions are voluntary, with a specific percentage earmarked for
Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States.
The "Loss and Damage" (L&D) fund is meant for the irreversible
consequences of climate change that cannot be avoided or mitigated
through adaptation efforts.
Global Stocktake COP28 released the fifth iteration of the Global Stocktake (GST),
adopting eight steps to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees C.
These steps include:
1. Tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030 (to at least 11,000 GW
by 2030) and collectively double the global energy
efficiency improvements from around 2% to over 4% every year
until 2030.
2. Phase-down of unabated coal power
3. Accelerating efforts globally towards net zero by around mid-
century
4. Accelerating zero and low emissions technologies e.g., Nuclear,
CCUS, Hydrogen
5. Transitioning away from fossil fuels in energy systems, in a
just, orderly and equitable manner, so as to achieve net zero by
2050
6. Reducing non-CO2 emissions e.g., methane emissions globally by
2030
7. Emissions reductions from road transport
8. Phasing out of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies
The text maintains continuity with COP26, balancing global aspirations
while recognizing diverse energy needs
What is Global Stocktake?
Global stocktake is a process for countries to see where they’re
collectively making progress towards meeting the goals of the Paris
Agreement. As per the Paris Agreement (2015), it was decided that
countries would assess their progress for the first time in 2023 and,
then, every five years.
It noted that there is a need to cut 43% of GHG emissions by 2030,

compared to 2019 levels and countries are off-track in meeting their
climate goals.
NOTES
Global Cooling 66 national signatories committed to a 68% reduction in cooling-
Pledge related emissions by 2050
Climate Finance UNCTAD estimates that developed nations owe developing countries
$500 billion in 2025 under the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG)
for climate finance, confirmed in the Paris Agreement.
The goal, starting at $100 billion annually, allocates $250 billion for
mitigation, $100 billion for adaptation, and $150 billion for loss and
damage.
With the current $100 billion goal unmet, developing countries face
debt distress.
Global Goal on Draft text introduced to enhance climate change adaptation like
Adaptation (GGA) Climate-Induced Water Scarcity Reduction, Climate-resilient food and
framework Agriculture Production and Strengthening Resilience Against Climate-
Related Health Impacts
Triple Nuclear The text calls to triple global nuclear energy capacity by 2050
Energy
Powering Past Coal PPCA, a coalition involving governments, businesses, and
Alliance (PPCA) organizations, focuses on transitioning from unabated coal power to
clean energy. At COP28, PPCA welcomed new national and
subnational governments, advocating for cleaner energy alternatives.
India is not part of PPCA as it has not committed to phasing out of
coal.
Coal Transition Introduced for knowledge-sharing and financial support in
Accelerator transitioning from coal.
Coalition for High 65 national governments signed commitments for enhanced
Ambition Multilevel cooperation with subnational governments in climate strategies.
Partnership
(CHAMP)
Buildings The goal of the Buildings Breakthrough Initiative is to make near-zero
Breakthrough emissions and resilient buildings the new normal by 2030. The
Initiative initiative is co-led by France and the Kingdom of Morocco,
coordinated under the umbrella of UNEP, and hosted by the Global
Alliance for Buildings and Construction (Global ABC)
UAE President at the COP28 climate summit in Dubai, announced the creation of a $30 billion
climate fund named ALTÉRRA.
• The fund aims to attract $250 billion in investment by the end of the decade, with $25 billion
allocated to climate strategies and $5 billion to incentivize investment in the Global South.
• The fund seeks to steer private markets towards climate investments, especially in emerging
markets and developing economies.
The term "Alterra" typically refers to a Latin word that is often used in various contexts to signify
alteration, transformation, or variation.
The fund’s investments will be guided by four key pillars:

1) Energy Transition
2) Industrial Decarbonization
3) Sustainable Living
4) Climate Technologies Top of Form
Azerbaijan and Brazil will host COP29 (2024) and COP30 (2025), respectively
NOTES
India’s Stance:
India expressed dissatisfaction, particularly opposing methane emission mandates. India
highlights the necessity of using coal for developmental needs and emphasizes adherence to
nationally determined contributions (NDCs).
India's climate action initiatives during the COP28 summit:

1. Global River Cities Alliance (GRCA): led by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG)
under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, was launched at COP28.
2. Green Credit Initiative: The Initiative aims to create a global trade forum facilitating the
exchange of innovative environmental programmes and instruments.
a. The Green Credit Initiative, launched at COP28, aligns with Mission LiFE which aims
to minimise per capita carbon footprint by promoting mindful utilisation instead of
wasteful consumption.
b. Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) is responsible for the
implementation, management, monitoring, and operation.
c. Individuals and entities earn Green Credits by registering environmentally friendly
activities through a dedicated government app/website
3. LeadIT 2.0: launched at COP 28, focuses on co-development and transfer of low-carbon
technology and financial assistance to emerging economies.
4. Green Development Pact: it provides pathways for nations in their journey towards achieving
energy, climate, environment and disaster resilience-related objectives.
NOTES
a. Green Development Pact includes key ambitions such as tripling of global renewable
capacity by 2030.
2. India exempted from CITES RST

India has been removed from the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of
Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) Review of Significant Trade (RST) for Red Sanders.
What is CITES RST?

CITES RST (Review of Significant Trade) is a process where the CITES Standing Committee closely
examines a country's species exports to ensure compliance with CITES regulations.
• Noncompliance may result in disciplinary actions, including trade suspensions.
Why was India exempted from CITES RST?

India has been under RST for Red Sanders since 2004. It has now been exempted, allowing
farmers in India to participate in the legitimate trade of Red Sanders. The exemption is attributed
to the 2022 amendment to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, aligning with CITES provisions under the
CITES National Legislation Programme (NLP).
• This has elevated India's status from Category 2 to Category 1 by the CITES Standing
Committee.
About Red Sanders

Red sanders, classified as endangered by the IUCN, CITES (Appendix II), and Wildlife Protection
Act (Schedule IV), are native to a specific region within the Eastern Ghats and are known for
their unique flora. It is referred to as ‘the pride of Eastern Ghats’. These trees have a slow growth
rate, taking 25 to 40 years to mature, and they display remarkable resistance to droughts.
Red Sanders application:

The Red Sanders heartwood is valued for its wavy grain. Besides its use in furniture, the red dye
(called ‘santalin’) extracted from the wood serves as a colouring agent for textiles, medicine, and
food.
NOTES
All import, export and re-export of species covered under CITES must be authorised through a
permit system.
Every two years, the Conference of the Parties (CoP), the supreme decision-making body of
CITES, applies a set of biological and trade criteria to evaluate proposals from parties to decide
if a species should be in Appendix I or II.
The species covered by CITES are listed in three Appendices as per the degree of protection they
need:
• Appendix I includes species threatened with extinction
• Appendix II includes species not necessarily threatened with extinction but (where trade
must be controlled)
• Appendix III contains species that are protected in at least one country, which has asked
other CITES parties for assistance in controlling the trade
3. Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

The CBD is a multilateral treaty aimed at conserving biodiversity, its sustainable use and ensuring
“fair and equitable sharing” of the benefits obtained through bioresources.
Background:
NOTES
● The CBD got a boost when 188 of 196 member governments adopted the Kunming-Montreal
Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF).
○ Earlier, the CBD had launched the Aichi biodiversity targets for 2020 - to safeguard all
ecosystems that provide services for humanity’s survival, and the Nagoya Protocol
(2014) - to ensure sharing of biodiversity access and benefits.
● The GBF sets out four goals for 2050 and 23 targets for 2030, to save existing biodiversity and
ensure that 30% of degraded terrestrial, inland water, coastal and marine ecosystems come
under effective restoration.
● The GBF does not prohibit the use of biodiversity, but calls for sustainable use, and a sharing
of benefits from genetic resources.
● That is why, the GBF emphasises respect for the rights of indigenous communities that
traditionally protect forests and biodiversity, and their involvement in conservation efforts. It
advocates similar roles for women and local communities.
The Kunming-Montreal pact on:

● Agricultural practices:
○ Adoption of biodiversity-supporting methods such as agroecology and sustainable
intensification.
○ It is significant, as growing Genetically Modified (GM) crops are not favoured by
agroecologists as they could harm biodiversity.
● Turning cities into hosts of biodiversity:
○ By expanding the area and improving the quality and access to urban green and blue
spaces.
○ Biodiversity-inclusive urban planning enhances native biodiversity, ecological
connectivity and integrity, and improves human health and well-being.
Roadmap
Four GBF goals for 2050 Implementation Monitoring

strategy for 2030
● Maintaining ecosystem The GBF is aligned ● Member nations need to submit

integrity and health to halt with UN SDGs, three a revised and updated national
extinctions. of which directly biodiversity strategy and action
● Measuring and valuing deal with the plan in 2024.
ecosystem services environment and ● Countries would have to review
provided by biodiversity. thus with existing laws relating to not just
● Sharing monetary and non- biodiversity: Goal the environment, but areas such
monetary gains from 13 on climate as industry, agriculture and land
genetic resources and action, Goal 14 on use.
digital sequencing of life below water and ● There are specific indicators for
genetic resources. Goal 15 on life on countries to report their
● Raising resources for all land. progress, as part of a
countries to close a transparency and reporting
biodiversity finance gap of arrangement.
an estimated $700 billion.
India’s participation:
• India became a signatory to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in 1994.
• In 2002, India became one of the first countries to enact a law, the Biological Diversity Act,
to implement the treaty within its borders. This Act is decentralized for implementation.
NOTES
Signatories to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), a 1993 agreement, meet every two
years — not annually like the climate meetings — to work on a global plan to halt biodiversity
loss and restore natural ecosystems.
The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the CBD were both outcomes
of the 1992 Rio Earth Summit — as was the third member of the family, the Convention to
Combat Desertification (CCD), which deals specifically with the issue of land degradation.
What is ABS?
• Access and benefit sharing refers to the way in which genetic resources may be accessed,
and how users and providers reach an agreement on the fair and equitable sharing of the
benefits that might result from their use.
• Article 15 of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) sets out rules, which govern access
and benefit sharing. Under these rules, the governments of countries have two key
responsibilities:
1. To put in place systems that facilitate access to genetic resources for environmentally
sound purposes
2. To ensure that the benefits resulting from their use are shared fairly and equitably between
users and providers.
4. UN Bonn summit
Delegates at a UN conference in Bonn have adopted a new global framework aimed at reducing
environmental risks associated with chemicals and waste.
• This framework, known as the Global Framework on Chemicals, includes 28 targets designed
to enhance responsible management of chemicals and waste throughout their lifecycle.
The Bonn Declaration was adopted at the summit, aiming to prevent exposure to harmful
chemicals, phase out the most dangerous ones when appropriate, and enhance the safe
management of such chemicals where necessary.
The declaration also encourages countries to support the transition to circular economies and
develop substitutes for harmful chemicals to safeguard health, and the environment, reduce
waste, and promote recycling efforts.
NOTES
Miscellaneous
1. E-fuels
The International Energy Agency (IEA) report on "The Role of E-fuels in Decarbonising
Transport” anticipates that biofuels will constitute 6% of road transport energy demand by
2030.
About E-fuels:
E-fuels, also known as electrofuels, are a type of synthetic fuel that can be used to power
vehicles, ships, and aeroplanes. They are a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels and can be used
in existing infrastructure
E-fuels are made from captured carbon dioxide or carbon monoxide, and hydrogen obtained
from water split by sustainable electricity sources. The process uses hydrogen to bind with the
CO2 under high pressure using a catalyst
E-fuels are climate-neutral and can be used to reduce CO2 emissions in the transport and
heating market.
2. Soil-powered fuel cell

A team from Northwestern University has developed a soil-
powered fuel cell that harvests energy from microbes in the
soil.
• This small fuel cell, about the size of a book, could be used
to power underground sensors in applications like green
infrastructure and precision agriculture.
• The researchers tested the fuel cell by using it to power
sensors detecting touch and measuring soil moisture.
• The new fuel cell's design, with a perpendicular
configuration of anode and cathode, performs better in
dry conditions, making it more suitable for low-moisture
environments.
The researchers claim it can generate power indefinitely as

long as there are microbes and carbon in the soil.
3. Thylakoid membranes
Thylakoid membranes are small pouches located in the chloroplasts of plants, storing
chlorophyll and playing a crucial role in photosynthesis.
• Originally found in ancient cyanobacteria, these light-sensitive bacteria are believed to have
contributed to the oxygen levels in Earth's atmosphere billions of years ago.
• Recent discoveries, particularly 1.75-billion-year-old fossilized thylakoid membranes in
microfossils off the coasts of Australia, suggest that thylakoids played a key role in the "Great
Oxygenation" event around 2.4 billion years ago.
• This event involved the release of oxygen by cyanobacteria, initially filling the oceans and
eventually escaping into the atmosphere, leading to the transformation of Earth's
atmospheric composition.
The findings open avenues for further exploration of older cyanobacterial microfossils and
testing hypotheses related to the emergence of thylakoids and their impact on Earth's early
oxygenation.
NOTES
4. Plants "Talking" To Each Other
Scientists from Japan have captured real-time footage of plants communicating with each other
for the first time.
• The research revealed that plants release airborne compounds, similar to smells, to warn
nearby plants of danger.
The study observed how undamaged plants responded to volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
released by plants damaged by insects or other factors.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are organic chemicals that have a high vapour pressure at
room temperature. This high vapour pressure results from a low boiling point, which allows their
molecules to evaporate from the liquid to the gas phase.
VOCs are in thousands of daily use products, including paint, varnish, wax, and various cleaning,
degreasing, and cosmetic products. Many VOCs are human-made chemicals that are used and
produced in the manufacture of paints, pharmaceuticals, and refrigerants.
5. Soda Lake and the Origin of Life

Scientists from the University of Washington discovered a shallow "soda lake," Lake Chance, in
Canada, resembling Darwin's "warm little ponds" that might have initiated life on Earth.
These soda lakes, containing high levels of dissolved carbonates, sodium, and phosphates,
address the long-standing "phosphate problem" in the emergence of life. While conventional
bodies of water have low phosphate levels, soda lakes, like Last Chance Lake in Canada, show
concentrations up to 1 million times higher. The study suggests that such environments, prevalent
on early Earth, could also be common on other planets, aiding origin-of-life research and the
search for habitable conditions beyond our solar system.
About Darwin's "warm little ponds" hypothesis:

It proposes that life on Earth may have originated in shallow bodies of water with high
temperatures, where complex molecules could spontaneously form. These ponds, resembling
soda lakes, could provide the ideal conditions for the synthesis of key biomolecules
What is the "phosphate problem"?

It refers to a challenge in theories about the emergence of life on Earth. RNA and DNA, crucial
molecules for life, as well as the membranes of living cells, require a backbone of naturally
occurring molecules of the element phosphorus, known as phosphates. However, concentrations
of phosphates needed to form these biomolecules in laboratory experiments are up to 1 million
times higher than the levels normally found in rivers, lakes, or oceans. This disparity between
required and naturally occurring phosphate levels poses a hurdle in understanding how life's
essential building blocks could have formed under natural conditions on Earth.
About Last Chance Lake:

It is a shallow, murky soda lake in British Columbia, Canada. It's located on federal land and sits
above volcanic rock.
6. Heavy fuel oil (HFO)

Heavy fuel oil (HFO) is a residual fuel that's a byproduct of the distillation of crude oil. It's also
known as bunker fuel or residual fuel oil.
HFO is a tar-like substance that's used to generate heat and motion. It's primarily used as a
marine fuel.
NOTES
HFO is toxic and has a boiling temperature of 350–500°C. It has a higher viscosity than
diesel. The quality of HFO depends on the quality of the crude oil used in the refinery.
HFO is widely used because it's about 30% cheaper than alternatives.
7. Early Warnings for All

"Early Warnings for All" is an initiative aimed at providing life-saving early warning systems to
protect everyone on Earth from hazardous weather, water, or climate events by the end of 2027.
The initiative, led by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations
Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), calls for over $3 billion investment over five years to
strengthen
1. Disaster risk knowledge World Meteorological
2. Observation and forecasting Organization (WMO) is an
3. Warning dissemination intergovernmental organization
4. Response capabilities and a specialised agency of the
UN, dedicated to international
The initiative aligns with the UN Secretary-General's cooperation and coordination on
Acceleration Agenda, the Paris Agreement, and the the state and behaviour of Earth's
Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction. atmosphere, weather and climate,
and distribution of water
Other Initiatives for Disaster Risk Reduction: resources. It has 193 members
1. Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning (including India)
System for Africa and Asia (RIMES)
2. The first Asian Ministerial Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction was hosted by India in
2016. Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (2019)
3. Indian Tsunami Early Warning System (2007)
4. iFLOWS Mumbai
5. CFLOWS-Chennai etc.
As per the ‘Global Status of Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems 2023’ Report released by the
United Nations and the World Meteorological Organisation, only half of the world is covered by
an early warning system
8. Pressmud
India's pressmud, a byproduct in the sugar industry, can be a valuable resource for compressed
biogas (CBG) production.
What is Pressmud and

how it is produced?
• Pressmud, also known
as filter cake or press
cake, is a residual
byproduct in the
sugar industry.
• It is produced during
the sugar extraction
process from
sugarcane.
• The sugarcane is crushed to extract juice, and pressmud is the solid residue left behind after
squeezing out the juice. Other by-products are: Bagasse, molasses
Applications:
NOTES
It has the potential use in generating compressed biogas (CBG) through anaerobic digestion and
subsequent purification. With the potential to generate 460,000 tonnes of CBG valued at Rs 2,484
crore, pressmud offers advantages like a simplified supply chain, concentrated sourcing, and
cost-effectiveness.
9. Environmental DNA
Researchers at the Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species (LaCONES), a part of
the CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) have developed a novel method for
detecting all life forms in an ecosystem using environmental DNA (eDNA).
• This innovative approach involves collecting water, soil, or air samples and then
sequencing the DNA fragments found in these samples to assess the total biodiversity of
the ecosystem.
• It can identify a wide range of organisms, including viruses, bacteria, archaea, fungi,
plants, insects, birds, fish, and other animals.
• This non-invasive technique is cost-effective, fast, and scalable for monitoring and
conserving biodiversity in both freshwater and marine ecosystems.
Traditional biodiversity assessment methods are limited in their ability to account for all
organisms and are expensive, labor-intensive, and time-consuming.
10. Kadalundi mudflat

The mudflat ecosystem in Kadalundi, located on the southwest coast of India, is shrinking rapidly
due to natural and anthropogenic factors, with sand sedimentation covering the once-abundant
inter-tidal mudflats.
• In the early 2000s, Kadalundi had approximately 8 hectares of nutrient-rich mudflats, but
now it has dwindled to just about 1 hectare.
• The mudflats provide essential prey, such as polychaetes and crustaceans, attracting a diverse
range of migratory birds from places like Siberia, Ladakh, Mongolia, and Scotland
Mudflats, also known as tidal flats, are coastal wetlands that form when tides or rivers deposit
mud. They are found in sheltered areas such as bays, bayous, lagoons, and estuaries.
11. Green alga Picocystis Salinarum

A young researcher in Rajasthan has unravelled the molecular mechanisms behind the resilience
of the green alga Picocystis Salinarum in extreme conditions of saline-alkaline soda lakes.
What is Alga?
Alga is a simple, photosynthetic organism, often aquatic, ranging from microscopic to large
seaweeds.
What is Picocystis Salinarum?

Picocystis salinarum is a globally widespread extremophile (able to withstand extreme
conditions), picoplanktonic green algae that inhabits saline lakes. It's one of the smallest green
algae and has been recorded on four continents. It was spotted for the first time in India only in
the Sambhar Lake.
Significance:
This discovery positions P. salinarum as a potential candidate for biotechnological applications,
including carbon capture and biomass production. The research also helps us in our
understanding of molecular adaptations in extremophiles for sustainable biotechnological
processes.
NOTES
12. Coal in India
Keyword Explanation
Coal A type of fossil fuel found in sedimentary rocks, often referred to as 'Black
Gold.' It is a conventional energy source used for various purposes,
including domestic heating, industrial processes, and electricity
generation.
Leading Coal China is the world's largest coal producer. In 2022, China produced over
Producers 52% of the world's coal. India is the second largest producer, with a global
share of nearly 9%, however, despite high production, around 30% of
India's coal is imported.
Distribution of Different regions in India where coal is found, such as Gondwana Coal
Coal in India Fields (predominantly found in regions like Jharkhand-West Bengal,
Chhattisgarh-Odisha, and Maharashtra) and Tertiary Coal Fields (mainly in
extra-peninsular regions like Assam, Meghalaya, and others).
Reserve The top 5 States in terms of total coal reserves in India are Jharkhand >
Odisha > Chhattisgarh > West Bengal > Madhya Pradesh
Classification Various types of coal based on their carbon content and properties,
including Anthracite, Bituminous, Lignite, and Peat.

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Animal / Wildlife Protection ....................................................................................... 11

Environment Protection .............................................................................................. 36

Renewable Energy ...................................................................................................... 50

Species Discovery / Species Sighted / Species Extinct .................................................. 52

Events / Celebrations .................................................................................................. 63

Reports / Release ....................................................................................................... 65

International Efforts / Organisations ........................................................................... 66

The mandate of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP); –

2. Indian Forest & Wood Certification Scheme (IFWCS)

What is sustainable forest management and agroforestry?

What is the Scheme about?

3. 'Clean & Green Villages' Programme

What is the Clean and Green Villages programme?

5. Green war room

Features of EIA Notification, 2006:

8. ECO Mark Scheme

9. Wildlife Protection Act, 1972

10. People’s Biodiversity Register

About Biodiversity Management Committees

3. Elusive binturong and the small-clawed otter

Species Binturong (Bearcat) Small-clawed Otter (Asian Small-clawed Otter)

Description Largest civet in India. Primarily found in freshwater habitats.

4. Vulture restaurant in Jharkhand

5. Malabar Pied Hornbill

About the programme:

6. Pakke Paga Hornbill Festival

This shift may have negative consequences on

9. Project Nilgiri Tahr

10. Budgett’s frog

About Budgett’s frog:

12. Melanistic tigers

About Melanistic tigers (black tigers)

13. Ghol as the Gujrat’s state Fish

Ghol Fish Details

Length Around one-and-a-half meters. Price increases with length, reaching up to

14. Olive Ridley

16. Asiatic wild dog-tiger coexistence

Dholes are wild dogs native to Asia.

17. Amazon River dolphins

18. Global Declaration for River Dolphins

Aim of the declaration:

About Gangetic River dolphin:

About the News:

20. Gir cow breed

What is Gir Cow Breed?

Other indigenous cattle breeds: Red Sindhi, Sahiwal, Hallikar etc

About the Rashtriya Gokul Mission:

Efforts to conserve the species:

23. Sea lions and algae bloom

Sea lions (IUCN Status - Endangered):

Algal bloom/red tides:

24. Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR)

About the Pench Tiger Reserve:

25. Darjeeling Zoo

What is the Conservation Breeding Programme?

More on Snow Leopard:

The Eurasian otter holds the broadest

About Chinar WLS:

27. Anamalai Tiger Reserve

About Anamalai Tiger Reserve:

28. Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary

About Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary

29. Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR)