environment

Deserts and Open Ecosystems, Importance and Conservation

Context: Deserts and open natural ecosystems are often wrongly viewed as wastelands, leading to misguided “greening” efforts. Importance of Deserts and Open Ecosystems Biodiversity Hotspots: Deserts are home to uniquely adapted plants and animals (e.g., Great Indian Bustard, caracal, Indian...

Locust Infestation: Causes, Impact, and Control Measures

Context: Scientists have identified a pheromone that triggers locust swarming and discovered a method to block it, offering a breakthrough in controlling locust outbreaks. About Locust Infestation What are Locusts? Locusts are grasshoppers that can transform into a swarming phase,...

Scheme for Critically Endangered Species

Context Gharial and Sloth Bear have been recommended for inclusion under the Species Recovery Programme of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme - Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (CSS-IDWH). The recommendation was made by the Standing Committee of the National Board for...

Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD), Advantages and Challenges

Context: The Ministry of Environment has relaxed the norms related to Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) systems for thermal power plants. In 2015, India's Environment Ministry mandated all 537 coal-fired plants to install FGD systems by 2018 to curb SO₂ emissions....

Kaziranga National Park, History, Species, Significance and Threats

Context: In a survey of Kaziranga National Park and Tiger reserve, researchers found a great diversity of grassland bird species (including Bengal florican, the endangered Finn’s weaver, and the swamp grass babbler). About Finn Weaver Conservation Status: Vulnerable on the...

Climate Migration in India, Challenges and Solution

Context: Climate change is triggering both droughts and floods in regions like Bundelkhand (India), forcing vulnerable communities into distress-driven migration. What is Climate Migration? Climate migration refers to the movement of people forced to relocate due to sudden or gradual...

India’s Carbon Credit Trading Scheme, Efforts, Shortfalls and Solutions

Context: India’s industrial sector is a major greenhouse gas emitter. India’s recent Carbon Credit Trading Scheme targets emission intensity, but concerns remain about ambition, sector coverage, and actual impact on India’s climate goals and net-zero trajectory. India’s Carbon Credit Trading...

Indian Rhinoceros, Conservation, Threats and Protection Status

Context: Genetic analysis of 2,573 rhino horn samples has been initiated in Assam to study DNA profiles as part of the RhoDIS India programme, aiding conservation and tracking efforts. About Indian Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) Range: The Indian Rhinoceros (Greater one-horned...

Marlin Fish: Species, Features, Appearance and Conservation

Context: A 28-year-old man went missing off the coast of Kerala after reportedly engaging in a dangerous duel with a marlin fish. What Is a Marlin Fish? Family & Species Marlins belong to the billfish group (Xiphioidea), within the family...

Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis): Habitat, Physical Features and Conservation Status

Context: Great Hornbill (Malamuzhakki Vezhambal), Kerala’s state bird, was spotted in the coastal area of Kakkampara near Ezhimala in Kannur, far from its usual forest habitats. About Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis) Distribution Great Hornbill is found in the Indian subcontinent...