environment

High Levels of Microbes Found in River Water at Kumbh

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

Development Vs Environment Debate

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

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

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

Climate Change, Causes, Effects and Government Initiatives

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

Dabhol Breakwater Project and LNG Terminal

Context: The Dabhol Breakwater Project, originally part of an Enron-era initiative in the Arabian Sea, is set to be completed by March 2025 after being stalled since 2001. About the Dabhol LNG Terminal Location: Dabhol, Ratnagiri district, Maharashtra. Connectivity: Close...

Environmental and Health Crisis in Kanpur Due to Tanneries

Context: Recently on orders of NGT UP Govt. conducted health checkups of people living in Kanpur & Fatehpur districts to assess the health impacts of pollution caused by tanneries. Health Impacts of Tanneries Tanneries are known for their use of...

India Likely to Miss Deadline for 2035 Climate Action Plan Submission

Context: India is expected to miss the February 10 deadline for submitting its 2035 Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. India’s Current Position India is not ready with its 2035 action plan and is in no hurry to...

Supreme Court’s Directive on Sacred Groves

Context: The Supreme Court has ordered the Rajasthan Forest Department to map and classify sacred groves as ‘forests’ and ‘community reserves’ under the Wildlife Protection Act. About SC Directives The Supreme Court (SC) of India ordered the Rajasthan Forest Department...

Ethanol Production in India, Sources and Role of Maize

Context: India is set to achieve 20% ethanol blending with petrol within the next two months—a year ahead of schedule. This requires the production of 1,100 crore litres of fuel ethanol annually. Sources of Ethanol Production The required 1,100 crore...

High Ammonia Level in Yamuna

Context: The ongoing Yamuna water crisis has escalated into a political dispute between the Delhi & Haryana governments. What is Ammonia? Ammonia (NH₃) is a colourless, water-soluble gas with a pungent smell. It is naturally present in the environment but...