Category: Environment

The United Nations has encountered setbacks in its environmental initiatives during 2024. Four crucial summits held in Colombia, Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia, and South Korea failed to produce meaningful outcomes. These gatherings aimed to align goals among governments, researchers, and civil society while mobilising necessary financial resources. However, the lack of consensus and progress raises serious…

On December 28, 2023, a surprising event unfolded in Mohangarh, Rajasthan. During a tubewell drilling operation, water unexpectedly gushed from the ground, prompting speculation about the ancient Saraswati River’s resurgence. However, experts clarified that this phenomenon was likely due to the presence of an artesian well, a natural water source under pressure. About Artesian Wells…

India faces groundwater contamination issue, particularly due to excessive nitrates. The Central Groundwater Board (CGWB) reports that as of 2023, 440 districts have unsafe nitrate levels, up from 359 in 2017. This rise poses health risks, especially for children, and contributes to environmental toxicity. The data indicates that approximately 56% of India’s districts exceed safe…

India has made progress in reducing its greenhouse gas emissions. In 2020, emissions decreased by 7.93% compared to 2019 levels. This decline is part of India’s broader strategy to decouple economic growth from carbon emissions. The country aims to further reduce the emission intensity of its GDP by 45% by 2030. Additionally, India plans to…

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has intensified due to severe cold weather. In just one week, six infants have succumbed to hypothermia. The ongoing conflict has restricted access to essential winter aid and medical support. Over 45,500 lives have been lost, predominantly among children and women. The population of 2.3 million, many displaced, faces dire…

November 2024 marked climatic event for India, as it became the second warmest November in 123 years. The average maximum temperature reached 29.37ºC, exceeding the normal by 0.62ºC. This unusual warmth has raised concerns about food security and ecological stability. Causes of Elevated Temperatures The primary reason for the high temperatures in November 2024 was…

The 59th Executive Committee meeting of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) has recently taken place. Chaired by Shri Rajeev Kumar Mital, this meeting focused on approving vital projects aimed at the conservation and rejuvenation of the Ganga River. The initiatives are designed to promote cleanliness and sustainable development while preserving the river’s environmental…

The Uttarakhand Forest Department has established two gardens in Haldwani, showcasing plant species referenced in ancient Indian epics. These gardens, named Ramayana Vatika and Mahabharata Vatika, aim to highlight the ecological wisdom embedded in these texts. Mahabharata Vatika Overview Mahabharata Vatika spans one acre and features 37 plant species mentioned in the epic. Chief Conservator…

A step has been taken to remove hazardous waste from the former Union Carbide factory in Bhopal. This action follows a stern directive from the Madhya Pradesh High Court, which urged authorities to act swiftly to clear the site. The toxic gas methyl isocyanate leaked from the factory in December 1984, resulting in thousands of…

The Dynamic Ground Water Resource Assessment Report for 2024 was released by the Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Shri CR Patil. This report, prepared by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) and States/UTs, provides crucial data for stakeholders to make informed decisions regarding water resource management. Groundwater Recharge and Extraction Data The total annual groundwater…