India to chair 9th International Renewable Energy Agency Council MeetIndia is going to chair the ninth International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) council meeting to be held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). The 9th IRENA council is scheduled to start from 10 June 2015 and will be a two day event. In this meeting 21 member nations of IRENA council are going to take part. They will guide the agencys future programmes and activities. About International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) IRENA is an intergovernmental organization to promote adoption and sustainable use of renewable energy. It is the global hub for renewable energy cooperation and information exchange within its member nations. Founded: in2009 and its statute entered into force on 8 July 2010. Headquarters: Abu Dhabi. Two governing structure:IRENA Assembly which takes decisions at macro level and gives policy guidance. IRENA Council is main governing body and is responsible for implementing various decisions of assembly. Members: In total it has 140 Members. India is one of the 33 Permanent and founder members of IRENA.

Union Government Suspends Greenpeace Indias registration for 6 monthsUnion government has suspended the registration of Greenpeace India, a non-profit environmental organization for six months with immediate effect. Decision in this regard was taken by Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) after Greenpeace India had prejudicially acted against the public interests and economic interests of the country. As per MHA, Greenpeace India has used its funds received from foreign sources for unauthorised purposes and has violated the rules mentioned Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), 2010. If Greenpeace India fails to make a satisfactory presentation to the Union government in this regard, its licence may be cancelled permanently. Background Governments action against the Greenpeace came in the wake of the Intelligence Bureaus (IBs) report on foreign funding of NGOs. In the IB report, it had charged the Greenpeace and other lobby groups for preventing economic growth of country by campaigning against mining, power projects and genetically modified food. Security agencies also have alleged that nearly 200 foreign donors were indulged in money laundering under the garb of donating money to some of these organisations.Newly discovered spider named after telangana stateNewly discovered spiders of Thomisidae family have been named as Telangana crab spider (Thomisus telanganensis) i.e. after Indian state of Telangana. These spiders were discovered by G.B. Pravalikha and Chelmala Srinivasulu, wildlife and taxonomy researchers from the Zoology Department of Osmania University at an expedition at Nagnur in Karimnagar district of Telangana. Key facts Telangana crab spiders Morphologically they resemble crabs and are hence also called crab spiders. Have tendency to walk sideways like crabs. They lie on flowering plants and wait for prey so they are also known as flower spiders. Do not weave webs like traditional spiders. They attack immobilise their prey with venom and prey all of a sudden. Size is between 3 mm and 23 mm. Colour varies from dull to bright and colourful. Generally are bio-controlling agents and help to keep the insect population under control. Thus are important to the ecosystem.National Green Tribunal bans disel vechicles older than 10 years in DelhiThe National Green Tribunal (NGT) on 7 April 2015 held that all diesel vehicles heavy or light which are more than 10 years old will not be permitted to ply in Delhi and NCR. The judgment was given by bench headed by NGT Chairman Justice Swatanter Kumar on a petition filed by Vardhaman Kaushik who had contended that the level of particulates in Delhi is raising manifold. NGT bench held that Diesel is prime source of air pollution in Delhi. The current situation is so alarming that people have been advised to leave Delhi due to adverse effects on health. Numbers of countries like Brazil, China, and Denmark etc are in the process or have prohibited diesel vehicles. They have achieved it by imposing stringent taxes on the vehicles. Certain stringent measures need to be taken to ensure that residents of Delhi do not travel closer to ill-health with each breath they take. In this regard, tribunal bench directed the Transport department of Delhi government and other concerned authorities to prepare a comprehensive data of registration of all such vehicles which are 10 or more years old. Earlier in November 2014, NGT had banned all the petrol vehicles over 15-year old in Delhi and NCR.Prime Minister Narendra Modi launches National air Quality Index to Give pollution InformationPrime Minister Narendra Modi launched National Air Quality Index (AQI) to give pollution information on real time basis. Initially the new index will cover 10 cities. They are Ahmedabad, Chennai, Delhi, Kanpur, Lucknow, Agra, Faridabad, Varanasi, Bangalore and Hyderabad. Later it will be extended to more than 60 cities with a population exceeding one million. Facts about National Air Quality Index (AQI) AQI will be used to inform people about daily air quality in turn it will provide advisories on health consequences. It will also tell how clean or polluted the air is and what associated health effects. The AQI has been developed for six pollutants- nitrogen oxides, sulphur dioxide, ozone, Particle Pollution (PM)2.5, PM10 and carbon monoxide. The new AQI is hosted on the website of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

RINL Launches first of its kind green project to generate 120 MW powerRashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL) the corporate entity of Vizag Steel Plant (VSP) on 31 March 2015 launched novel green project that can generate 120 MW power. It is first of its kind green project launched in Indian Steel Industry that can generate pollution free captive power using 100 per cent Blast Furnace Gas and Coke Oven Gas. The plant consists of state-of-the-art Boiler Turbo Generator (BTG) Power Plant technologyin order to efficiently utilise the surplus Blast Furnace Gas (BFG). This Power Plant is designed for firing 100 per cent BFG and Coke Oven Gas for the new captive power plant of 120 MW-capacity. The plant is built at a cost of Rs 676 crore. It will help VSP to move step towards achieving self-sufficiency in power generation and to reduce dependency on the State Grid in the process of steel making. Presently, RINL is having three turbo generators each 60 MW (180 MW) capacity and two turbo generators of 67.5 each (135MW) capacity. Thus, having total captive power generation capacity of 315 MW.Rare spinders sighted in Western GhatsResearchers have discovered rare huntsman and jumping spider in the Western Ghats belong to the Sparassidae and Salticidae families. They were discovered by the research team of arachnologists led by Dr. P.A. Sebastian, Director of the Division of Arachnology in Sacred Heart College, Kochi in Kerala. Huntsman spider- It was sighted at Ponmudi, Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala. These spiders are known for their speed and unique hunting mode. Sometimes they hide in the ambush and surprise the prey. Some of these spiders make a substrate-borne sound when they detect a chemical left by a nearby female of their species. Jumping spider- It was sighted at the Malayattoor and Bhoothathankettu reserve forest. These spiders jump from one place to another like a grasshopper. The jumping spider was given the name Stenaelurillus albus due to the presence of a unique whitish area on the copulatory organ of the male spider. The discovery is considered unique as only 17 species of jumping spider having mating plugs have been reported of the approximate 5,800 jumping spiders recorded.

Earth Hour 2015 observed acroos the worldNinth edition of Earth Hour was observed on 28 March 2015 across the World. Earth Hour 2015 encouraged people to explore and adopt a cleaner and more sustainable lifestyle by embracing renewable energy solutions. In this edition of Earth Hour, millions of people around the world took part in the event for the global climate change awareness campaign. Over 170 countries participated in the event and more than 1,200 landmarks along with 40 UNESCO world heritage sites observed the Earth Hour. Pariss iconic Eiffel Tower, Berlins Brandenburg Gate and Hong Kongs famed skyline also participated in the Earth Hour by switching off their lights. The Eiffel Tower turned off lights for only five minutes due to security reasons. About Earth Hour It is an annual global event organized by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). The initiative began in 2007 in Sydney, Australia and later became global event. Earth Hours goal is to raise awareness for sustainable energy use and create a more environmentally sustainable lifestyle. This day encourages citizens, communities, businesses and organisations to switch the lights off from 8:30 pm local time for an hour to highlight the plight of the planet.Great Indian one horned Rhinoceros population rises in kaziranga 2015 CensusAs per the latest census, the Great Indian one-horned Rhinoceros population in Assams Kaziranga National Park (KNP) world heritage site has increased to over 2401. The census was conducted by Assams forest department in association with several wildlife NGOs as a regular exercise in the park for four days from 24 to 28 March 2015. Entire Park was divided into 81 blocks for the purpose of census and the whole exercise involved about 200 people. Key highlights of census The census has counted 2,401 rhinos in the park in indicating that their population has increased by 71 rhinos the past two years. About 1,651 adult rhinos were counted in the census followed by 294 sub adult rhinos. 251 juvenile rhinos in the park were estimated followed by 205 calves.

Previous census It should be noted that Rhino census is conducted every three years. The last census was carried out in 2012. It had confirmed 2,290 rhinos in the park. However, a special census of the rhinos was conducted in 2013 by Assam Government. The special census had confirmed 2,329 rhinos in the park. It was conducted after the poaching incidents had increased in the park and large numbers of rhinos were poached.Rajasthan passes bill to ban camel slaughterRajasthan Government on 27 March 2015 passed the Rajasthan Camel (Prohibition of Slaughter and Regulation of Temporary Migration or Export) Bill, 2015. It was passed in state legislative assembly by a voice vote. The bill bans the slaughter, trading and unauthorised transportation of camels in the state.It also prescribes rigorous punishment for its violation including five years of rigorous imprisonment along with monetary fine. Causing injury to camel is also punishable as per the bill. Background The bill was enacted after several cases of intentional killings of camel and its progeny had come to light in state. Large numbers of camels for the purpose of slaughter were transported to other states. The menace illegal camel slaughter and trade had increased in recent times due to the recurrent famine and scarcity conditions in the state. It had resulted in the decline of the camel population. In July 2014, state government had declared camel as the state animal of Rajasthan in order to curb its illegal trade.Union Government reconstitutes SEAC II in MaharashtraUnion Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change (MoEFCC) has reconstituted the second State Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) in Maharashtra. The reconstituted SEAC-II will assess projects falling in category 8 of the schedule of (Environment Impact Assessment) EIA notification 2006 in the Mumbai metropolitan region and Konkan division in Maharashtra. SEAC-II will have seven members and will be headed by retired IAS officer Johny Joseph as Chairman. The term of the chairman and members of the committee will be till October 2016. The state government will provide all logistic support and financial to the SEAC-II. Background In Maharashtra, there are two SEAC-I and SEAC-II committees. Both the committees appraise projects for environment clearance in the state. The SEAC-I looks at projects from across the state, while the SEAC-II assess projects from the Mumbai metropolitan region and Konkan division. Both committees recommend either approval or rejection the projects to the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA).Mithivirdi nuclear plant gets CRZ nod from Union GovernmentUnion Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change (MoEFCC) has given coastal regulatory zone (CRZ) nod to the 6,000-MW Mithivirdi Nuclear Power Plant of Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) in Bhavnagar district of Gujarat. The clearance was granted by MoEFCC for constructing an intake and outfall facility in the plant. This intake channel will be 100 metre wide and 10 metre deep and a discharge facility comprising of Condenser Cooling Water Discharge tunnels will be 8 metre diameter and 6 kms in length for each two units and a total of 18 kms each for units. MoEFCC also has proposed to construct a small barge handling marine facility having a draft of 3-4 metres. It will help for receiving and handling over dimensional consignments (ODCs) during the construction stage of the plant and will be in the form of a shore-based wharf type or an open-piled jetty system. MoEFCC also asked NPCIL to examine possibilities of deploying ultrasonic devices with the help of National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) to divert the aquatic life from entering into the sea water intake in connection. The ministry also has asked filters to be provided at intake to prevent entry of marine life along with the sea water. It should be noted that this environmental clearance for the plant is seen as a big boost for NPCIL that has been facing severe opposition from local farmers and social activists.

Rajendra singh wins prestigious 2015 Stockholm Water PrizeRenowned water conservationist and environment activist Rajendra Singh has been conferred with 2015 Stockholm Water Prize. He was awarded this prize for his innovative water restoration efforts and consistent attempts to improve the water security in villages in India. About Rajendra Singh He is popularly known as Water Man of India. He started his career in 1980 as a National Service Volunteer and later joined NGO Tarun Bharat Sangh (TBS). Rajendra Singh along with volunteered young people and TBS members had started movement purifying traditional rainwater tanks (johads). He also had played important role in rejuvenating Arvari River after johads and check dams were constructed on it. It has helped Arvari River to become perennial river and was awarded International River Prize. Since then he has pioneered in building around 8,600 johads and other structures to collect water in state of Rajasthan. This initiative has brought water back to around 1,000 villages across the state. He was also member of National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) from 2009-12. Awards- He was awarded with Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership in 2001. About Stockholm Water Prize Established- 1991. The prize is founded and financed by Stockholm Water Foundation and administered by the Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI) It recognizes persons for their outstanding achievements in conservation and protection of the worlds water resources and presented annually. The award carries US 150,000 dollars and a specially designed sculpture. Rajendra Singh is fourth Indian to win the prestigious global award. Others are1993- Madhav Chitale 2005- Sunita Narain. 2009- Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak.NGT announces Rs 5000 fine for littering on railway propertyNational Green Tribunal (NGT) has announced a fine of Rs 5,000 on individuals spotted littering or throwing waste on the railway platforms and tracks. It was announced by a NGT bench, headed by Chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar. In this regard NGT has passed a slew of directions to the Railways and other authorities for maintaining cleanliness on railway tracks. The Tribunal directed the Railways and the Delhi Municipal Corporations to place dustbins after identifying exact locations for collection of garbage. NGT also directed the Railways instead of directly releasing the garbage into sewer system they should collect, transport and treat the waste at the treatment plants. The tribunal also directed the concerned authorities to install mobile toilets near slum clusters in order to control pollution caused by plastic products and human defecation around railway tracks. NGT gave the directions on a petition filed by lawyers Saloni Singh and Arush Pathania. The petitioners were seeking a blanket ban on use and sale of plastic products on railway platforms across the country besides a ban on open defecation by people around tracks.

Union Environment Ministry revokes suspension of Goa minesUnion Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) has revoked 3 year-old suspension of environmental clearances (ECs) of mines in Goa.It was announced by Goa Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar. This decision will pave the way for resumption of iron ore extraction in the state especially in 72 out of the total 89 approved mining leases. MoEF decision to lift the ban on mining was taken as per the directives of the Supreme Court (SC). With revocation of mining suspension, state government now will decide the ore extraction limits for individual miners so that mining output does not exceed the cap of 20 million tonnes (mt) set by SC. Background In 2012, then Environment Minister Jayanthi Natarajan had suspended ECs for 93 mining leases in Goa. The ECs were suspended by her following the recommendations of report submitted by commission headed by former Supreme Court justice MB Shah. The commission in its report had highlighted rampant illegal extraction of the raw material in the state. The suspension had completely halted the iron ore mining in the state. In April 2014, SC had lifted this ban and had ruled that iron ore extraction in state will require clearances form MoEF and approval from the state government. The court also had set a cap of 20mt a year for all output in Goa.Union Government merges green India Mission merged with MGNREGA to reclaim forest coverUnion Government has merged Green India Mission (GIM) with the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) Scheme. By merging GIM with MGNREGA Scheme government seeks to increase 10 million hectares of forest cover. Key facts National Mission for a Green India aims for afforestation at 10 million hectares of land over the next decade in order to increase and improve the countrys forest cover. It also aims at improving ecosystems services, forest based livelihood income of about three million households and to enhance annual CO2 sequestration. At present under MGNREGA Scheme green works such as water harvesting, afforestation and farm forestry are undertaken which are implemented by Union Ministry of Rural Development. Government will also use modern technology like remote sensing to monitor the progress of this initiative regularly. Union Government also has set out convergence guidelines in this regard after consulting both Ministry of Environment & Forest (MoEF) and Rural Development Ministries. Convergence guidelines includes All lands including community lands, village common lands, revenue wastelands, wetlands, shifting cultivation areas, and private agricultural lands will be eligible for afforestation. Under MGNREGA for afforestation, forest works such as pre-plantation, planting, watering and pit digging will be undertaken. Fencing, plant support and protection activities, mulching, weeding and manuring the plants will be also undertaken. Technical advice related to the plant species suitable for area and to raise nurseries will be provided by State Forest Development Agencies (SFDA). SFDA will also deliver information related to plant material to each gram panchayat before July each year meeting the cost from MGNREGA funds.Mass nesting of Olive Ridley turtles begins I OdishaThe mass nesting of Olive Ridley sea turtles, an endangered species has begun at mouth of river Rushikulya in Ganjam district of Odisha.Over 10,000 female turtles have laid eggs on the first day, in the 3-km-long sandy beach from Gokharakuda to Podampeta. Along with nesting sites at river Rushikulya mouth and Gahiramatha, the mouth of Devi River in Odisha is also famous for mass nesting. The mass nesting season of Olive Ridley sea turtles is a unique phenomenon and each female turtle lays around 100-150 eggs. These eggs hatch after 45 to 50 days of the nesting. However, the mother turtles do not wait till hatching and baby turtles are left alone for their survival. For the mass nesting, around 175 persons, including forest personnel, wildlife activists and nearby local villagers are engaged in protection of the Olive Ridley turtles and the eggs round the clock. About Olive Ridley Turtles Scientific name: Lepidochelys olivacea. They are also known as the Pacific ridley sea turtle. Olive Ridley Turtles are generally found in warm and tropical waters, primarily in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. They are listed as vulnerable species inIUCN Red Data Bookbecause of their few remaining nesting sites in the world.EU formally adopts climate change targets for December 2015 UNFCCC Paris ConferenceThe European Union (EU) has formally adopted climate change targets for December 2015 UNFCCC Paris Conference. Adopted climate change target includes a 40 per cent cut in emissions by 2030. These targets were agreed by leaders of the 28 EU member-states at a summit in October 2014 but now have been officially forwarded to the United Nations. EU announcement comes prior to the deadline of March 31, 2015 as it is binding on countries to announce their commitment to cutting greenhouse gas emissions. EU countries when taken together form the worlds biggest economy and accounts for nine per cent of global emissions of greenhouse gases. EU has agreed to cut the greenhouse gas emissions by at least 40 per cent compared to 1990 levels. United States also has formally announced its intention to reduce emissions by 26-28 per cent in 2025 compared with their level in 2005. It should be noted that US accounts for 12 per cent of global greenhouse gases emissions. While, China has set a target date of 2030 for its global greenhouse gases emissions to reach peak.

Renowed ornithologist K.S. Lavakumar Khachar Passes awayRenowned ornithologist and environmentalist K.S. Lavkumar Khachar passed away in Rajkot, Gujarat. He was 84. As environmentalist he had a long association with the environmental conservation intuitions like Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) and World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) India. About K.S. Lavkumar Khachar Khachar was educated at Rajkumar College in Rajkot and belonged to the erstwhile princely family of Jasdan from Gujarat. He was among the pioneers of nature conservation in India and had worked to spread awareness about ornithology, nature and wildlife conservation in the country. He had organized and led several environmental education activities in Gujarat especially conservation work in the Gulf of Kutch islands and Gir forest, famous for Asiatic Lions. In 1984, he had served as director of the Nature Discovery Centre of the Centre for Environment Education (CEE). Book- In 1981, he had authored and produced book Sixty Indian Birdsalong with RS Dharmakumarsinhji. Awards- For his pioneering work in ornithology and on the Nanda Devi National Park, he has been conferred with prestigious Salim Ali-Loke Wan Tho Lifetime Award for Excellence in Ornithology. In 2004, he was also awarded the Venu Menon Lifetime Achievement Award.Zoological Society of London and Gujarat Forest Department inks MoU for Asiatic lion ConservationZoological Society of London (ZSL) and Gujarat Forest Department on 26 February 2015 have inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for conservationof Asiatic lion and its habitat. As part of MoU, ZSL with its expertise in managing zoo will provide Technical assistance to forest department to manage rescue and treatments centres. Technical support in veterinary support and expertise in managing the landscape and the habitat of the area and also training the staff in handling rescue operations. It will also help to manage Sakkarbaug Zoo in Junagadh. State Forest Department will use smart software jointly developed by the ZSL and the Gujarat forest department for tracking the movement of their staff and even the lions. Earlier in 2014, ZSL had launched charitys new Lions400, a fundraising campaign and had raised over 135,000 towards helping to save the Asian lions.

NGT issues the whip on vintage carsNational Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued whip on vintage cars and directed that no such car will be permitted on the roads of Delhi. This order was issued by bench of NGT headed by Chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar on the lines of its earlier order that had banned all vehicles older than 15 years. In its order NGT bench also mentioned that, no fitness certificates to the vintage cars will be issued by any authority without specific permission of the tribunal. NGTs order was issued on a plea hearing, filed by Madan Mohan, director of 21 Gun Salute International Vintage Car Rally, who had moved the tribunal seeking permission for the rally. Background In November 2014, NGT in its judgment had held that vehicles which are more than 15 years old are banned to run on the city roads. NGT also had directed the concerned authorities take appropriate steps in accordance with law including seizure of these vehicles it they are found running on road. About National Green Tribunal NGT is a special fast-track court to handle the expeditious disposal of the cases pertaining to environmental issues. It was constituted by Parliament under National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 (NGT) under Indias constitutional provision of Article 21, which assures the citizens of India the right to a healthy environment.

3rd Tortoise Festival Organised Assam3rd Tortoise Festival was organised on the banks of Hajong Lake in Dima Hasao district of Assam by Dima Hasao Environment and Forest Department. This festival aims to create awareness among the villagers surrounding villages of Hajong Lake about the safety of the endangered tortoise species available in the area. Key facts Hajong Lake is popularly known as the tortoise lake, is a natural habitat of the few unique tortoise i.e. hill terrapins. It is situated 80 kilometres north of Haflong in the remote Dima Hasao district. Hajong Lakeis the only natural tortoise habitat in Assam, where some endangered species of tide-water tortoise of north-east India are still living. It is facing a hostile condition due to ever-growing human intervention in their habitats and at present, there are around 400 to 500 tortoises dwelling in this Lake.

Environment loss in Sundarbans worth Rs 1290 crore: World Bank ReportAs per World Banks recently released report Building Resilience for Sustainable Development of the Sundarbans, environmental damage in the climate change-hit islands of Sundarbans is costing India Rs. 1,290 crore each year. This report was jointly prepared by World Bank in collaboration with the West Bengal government. Key facts of report Losses- Annually the cost of environmental damage associated with ecosystem degradation and biodiversity loss is about Rs. 670 crore. While, the cost of health effects due to poor environment is estimated at Rs. 620 crore. Factors- The losses are due to combination of factors associated with unsustainable and inefficient economic activities in Sundarbans. These factors include mangrove destruction, impact of cyclones, reduced agricultural yields and unsustainable fisheries as well as destruction of ecosystem services. Cyclones- Damage costs from cyclones are the highest and accounts for damages worth Rs. 290 crore. It also includes damages to houses, agriculture, human injuries and fatalities. Health issues- Due to environmental degradation, villagers in Sundarbans are suffering from poor health outcomes. This degradation is generally in the form of adverse natural events, such as cyclones and storms and increases in soil salinity. These risk factors contribute considerably to mortality and morbidity, particularly among women and children. Other losses- Climate change along with the sea level rise also has resulted in shrimp losses, carbon sequestration losses associated with degradation of mangrove forest, soil salinity in terms of impact on rice yields, loss of biodiversity and agricultural land losses. About Sundarbans Sundarbans is an archipelago of 54 islands and is home to about 44 lakh people.It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. In recent times it is hit hard by an increase in floods, storms, salinity and erosion caused by rising sea-levels and global warming.Union Government launches Soil Health Card Scheme in RajasthanPrime Minister Narendra Modi has launched nationwide Soil Health Card (SHC) scheme in Suratgarh town of Sriganganagar district, Rajasthan.During the launch PM gave slogan- Swasth Dharaa. Khet Haraa (Healthy Earth, Green Farm). Key facts ofSoil Health Card (SHC) scheme SHC is centrally-sponsored nationwide scheme which aims to help farmers to improve the productivity of farms by providing them basic information for use of nutrients or fertilizers. The card carries crop-wise recommendation of fertilisers that are required for farm lands. It also helps farmers identify health of soil and judiciously use soil nutrients. Under this scheme Centre plans to target over 14 crore farmers in the next three years. In financial year 2014-15, around 3 crore farmers will be covered to check the excess use of fertilisers. Soil Health Card (SHC) scheme was announced by NDA government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in its first budget presented in July 2014. In the budget, government had allotted Rs. 100 crore for issuing cards under the scheme. Government also had allotted

Muthoot Group partners with WWF for elephant projectKerala-based business conglomerate Muthoot Group has launched the Friends for Life project in partnership with World Wide Fund (WWF) for Nature-India. This project aims at effective management of human-elephant conflict (HEC) to protect the habitats of Asian elephants in six states as 4 priority landscapes and 1 priority site earmarked by WWF-India. Priority landscapes include North Bank landscape in Arunachal Pradesh, Kaziranga and Karbi-Anglong in Assam, Terai Arc landscape in Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, Western Ghats landscape in Tamil Nadu and Kerala and also some parts of northern West Bengal. This project was launched in Kochi as part of the Muthoots Haathi Mera Saathi Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. This project will address the problems and provide solutions in terms of reducing elephant and human lives lost in theearmarkedpriority landscapes. It will also secure crop and property damage in villages and build a future where humans and elephants can live in harmony with each other in selectedlandscapes.India sign $8 million loan agreement with world Bank for SLACC projectIndia signed a loan grant agreement worth US $8 million with World Bank for Sustainable Livelihoods and Adaption to Climate change (SLACC) Project. The agreement was signed by Joint Secretary in Union Ministry of Finance Tarun Bajaj and World Banks India Country Director Onno Ruhl. About Sustainable Livelihoods and Adaption to Climate change (SLACC) Project SLACC Project aims at improving the adaptive capacity of the rural poor particularly women farmers engaged in farm-based livelihoodsto cope with climate change and scale up the demonstrated best practices. SLACC project will be implemented in collaboration with government programs such as Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP) and Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS). While, National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) isthe implementing agency of SLACC. It will focus to provide assistance in Climatic hazards that affect the availability of natural resources, which adversely affect the livelihoods of the poor by impacting production, affecting incomes and preventing building up of assets.

Four new fish species discovered in KeralaFour new fish species named Puntius nelsoni, Puntius nigronotus, Systomus chryseus and Systomus rufus have been discovered in Kerala. They were discovered by Mathews Plamoottil, a zoology professor at Baby John Memorial Government College in Kollam. Facts about discovered species Puntius nelson- Body and fins of this fish is yellowish in colour. Its head is deeper, the snout shorter and the mouth wider. It was discovered at Kallumkal in Thiruvalla, at the place where Pamba and Manimala rivers merge. Puntius nigronotus- It has dorsal fin, black in colour and has more rays. Its lateral line scales are greater than its closest relatives. It was discovered at Mananthavady in the hilly Wayanad district. Systomus chryseus- It is golden in colour and its pectoral fin is greatly elongated. It was discovered from Keezhvaipur near Thiruvalla. Systomus rufus- Its fins are red in colour. It was discovered from Venpala, near Thiruvalla district. All the four new species have received a Zoo bank register number from the International Commission of Zoological Nomenclature (the worldwide scientific authority for naming new animals). The new species of the genus Systomus was discovered after one-and-a-half century. Detailed articles describing these new species have been published in international publications like Journal of Research in Biology and International Journal of Fauna and Biological Studies.Symposium: Towards Zero poaching in Asia Concludes in NepalA symposium, Towards Zero Poaching in Asiaconcluded in Kathmandu, Nepal on 6th February 2015. Symposium: Towards Zero Poaching in Asia This five-day anti-poaching symposium started on 2 February 2015, was hosted by the Ministry of Forests and Soil Conservation of Nepal. It wasco-hosted by World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Global Tiger Forum (GTF), National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) and South Asia Wildlife Enforcement Network (SAWEN) This event had brought together global anti-poaching experts and delegates from countries like Bangaladesh, Bhutan, China, Cambodia, India, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Russia, Thailand and Vietnam. In this event, experts shared best anti-poaching practices, tools and technologies with the aim of launching a coordinated Asia-wide push to stop poaching. Among the Tiger Range Countries that participated in this Zero Poaching in Asia symposium, Nepal is the only country to achieve zero poaching. Nepals achievement of Zero-poaching Nepal had celebrated two zero poaching years i.e. in 2011 and 2014. In both years no single critically endangered rhino was killed and for past three years not a single tiger was killed. Nepal was able to achieve remarkable success in wildlife conservation mainly due to its three C policies, commitment, collaboration and coordination of conservation effortsundertaken by local communities and the security forces. Nepals wildlife Nepal, which shares the Terai Arc landscape with India, has rich bio-diversity and rare flora and fauna. It is home to endangered animals like tigers, rhinos, elephants and gangetic dolphins. It has 10 national parks, three wildlife reserves and six conservation areas that cover more than 13,000 square miles in total. As per the previous animal census there are 534 endangered rhinos and 198 tigers in Nepal. Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) is Nepals nodal agency to monitor its rich biodiversity.

Two beneficial algal species discovered off the west coast of IndiaRecently, two beneficial algal species Ulva paschima Bast and Cladophora goensis Bast were discovered off the west coast of India. They were discovered by Dr. Felix Bast and two research students working with him.These findings were published in the journals PLOS One and Indian Journal of Marine Sciences. Key Characteristics of discovered algal species Carbon capture properties- These species have excellent carbon capture properties i.e. ability to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. So it can be used as bio-fuels and help reduce global warming. Endemic- Both of them are endemic species to the western coast of India. So, their cultivation is not going to cause any environmental harm and reduces the risk of bio invasion in this region. Bloom forming- Both species being bloom forming they have spontaneous growth. So there is no need for any expensive cultivation systems such as photobioreactors or extensive use of fertilizers/pesticides. They can grow sporadically at shorelines and can sequester CO. Medicinal values- Both species have similar characteristic like other algal species which have Kahalalide-F, used in in clinical trials against prostate and breast cancers. So they can be used in Pharmaceutical products. It should be noted that, this discovery was the first molecular study on Indian algae, and first algal species discoveed in past 40 years.

World Wetlands Day is being observed on 2 FebruaryEvery year World wetland day (WWD) is observed on 2 February. The theme for the world wetland day 2015 is Wetlands for our future. Significance of Day This day marks the date of the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands also called as Ramsar Convention on 2 February 1971 in the Iranian city of Ramsar. Each year on this day government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and groups of citizens at all levels of the community raise public awareness of wetland values and their benefits. They also spread awareness about Ramsar Convention in particular. Background For first time, WWD was celebrated in year 1997 and since then it is observed every year. The theme for the world wetland day 2014 was Wetlands and Agriculture. Some facts Currently there are 2,186 wetlands of international importance sites under the Ramsar Convention known as Ramsar Sites covering around 208,449,277 hectares km. The maximum Ramsar sites are located in UK i.e. 168. The largest area covered by the Ramsar sites is in Canada. The number of parties to the Ramsar Convention is 168. Ramsar Sites in India are 26 (as of September 2012).Jackal research and translocation Project launched in Uttar PradeshWildlife SOS in collaboration with Uttar Pradesh (UP) Forest Department and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is launching Jackal Research & Translocation Project in UP. Under this project, study and translocation of 30-35 wild jackals from Akbars Tomb in Sikandra, Agra to safe natural habitat will be undertaken. Jackal Translocation Project It seeks to protect Blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra) population in Akbars tomb as well as jackals. Recent surveys have shown that jackal population has increased inside the Akbars tomb premises. It had resulted in decrease in population of Blackbucks as jackals were preying on the young fawn of the black bucks. This project will help to reduce unnatural proximity between these two species by translocating jackal to other safe natural habitat and save almost 100 blackbucks.Indias 1st solar fenced elephant sanctuary to come up near BengaluruIndias 1st solar fenced elephant sanctuary will come up near Bengaluru, Karnataka. It was announced by an international animal rights and conservation group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). In this regard, PETA and the Bannerghatta Biological Park, Karnataka have joined hands. Key facts about solar fenced elephant sanctuary Its main objective is to allow elephants in this park to move around freely within the secure areato curb man- animal conflicts in this area. It will cover 49.5 hectare area within the Biological Park which is an extension of the Bannerghatta National Park. Designed by the PETA consultant and elephant expert Carol Buckley and basically includes solar electric fence and a state-of-the-art emergency corral made of steel pipes. Local caregivers will be also trained on the principles of protected contact. It will allow safe interaction between human beings and elephants by keeping them separated by a barrier. It will also replaceage-old routine of physical punishment techniques to manage the elephants, bypositive reinforcement techniques.Keralas Periyar tiger reserve wins NTCA biennial awardPeriyar Tiger Reserve located inKerala has won the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) biennial award for encouraging local public participation in managing the reserve. Public participation in managing thePeriyar Tiger Reserve India Eco-Development project (IEDP): Peoples participation started in the reserve in December 1996 by establishing India Eco-Development project (IEDP). It was a community-based eco-tourism initiative, which promoted tourism activities which helped visitors. It also promoted pepper growing in this region and marketing it. Periyar Foundation: Later in 2006, reserve set up the Periyar Foundation which was a model for other reserves in biodiversity conservation and community participation in managing natural resources. It involved 75 communities living around the reserve, including tribal people. There are around 19 different eco-tourism programmes apart from village eco-development programmes for public participation in managing the reserve.

Indias Tigers Population increases by 30% since 2011As per tiger census report 2014, the population of tigers in India has increased from 1,706 in 2011 to 2,226 in 2014.This tiger census report was released by Union environment minister Prakash Javadekar. Key facts of tiger census report 2014 It shows an increase of 30 per cent in countrys tiger population compared to 2011 tiger census report. The latest tiger census figures show that Karnataka has the highest number of tigers in the age group of 1.5 years and more. It has 408 tigers in that age group. While census figures show that 340 tigers are in Uttarakhand, 308 in Madhya Pradesh, 229 in Tamil Nadu, 190 in Maharashtra, 167 in Assam, 136 in Kerala and 117 in Uttar Pradesh. As per new census, India is estimated to be home to around 70% of the worlds tigers. For census, total of 3,78,118 sq km of forest area in 18 tiger states was surveyed with a total of 1,540 unique tiger photo captures. Tiger census In India, tiger census is carried out after a gap of every three years by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). 2008 tiger census: Tiger population estimated was 1,411. 2011 tiger census: Tiger population estimated was 1,706.

World future Energy Summit begins in Abu DhabiThe World Future Energy Summit 2015 has begun in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is eight editionof the summit and will befour day event.It will provide platform to delegates including world leaders, international policy makers, industry leaders, investors, experts, academia, intellectuals and journalists from all over the world including India. Delegates will discuss the future of renewable energy and how to overcome the challenges in tapping potential of it. Key highlights of World Future Energy Summit It will provide a platform for commercial solutions to clean and green energy. It will include exhibition of first-of-its-kind, fully integrated hybrid product that captures both solar and wind energy to provide more consistent power generation. Summit will also display a mobile solar power plant on a trailer with a 4.8 kWp capacity and battery storage of up to 20 kWh and a new turbine that converts energy from sea waves. It will also display parabolic sun-dish concentrators combined with a specialized steam generator suitable for enhanced oil recovery, power generation, water desalination operations and power generations are on display.2014 hottest year on record: US ScientistsAccording to US scientists, year 2014 was the hottest year on record, with global average temperature increasing about 0.8 degrees Celsius since 1880. It was revealed by two separate analyses carried out by NASA and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Key outcomes 10 warmest years since records began in the 19th century have all been since 1997. In 2014, record temperatures were spread around the globe. It included most of Europe stretching into northern Africa, the western United States, far eastern Russia into western Alaska, parts of interior South America, parts of eastern and western coastal Australia and elsewhere. Recent trends of warming have been dominated by human emissions of greenhouse gases. Earlier, it was thought of chaotic weather patterns. But later it was considered that year-to-year fluctuations in average global temperature are caused by phenomena such as El Nino or La Nina. El Nino or La Nina phenomena generally warm or cool the tropical Pacific oceanic region and are thought to have played a role in the flattening of the long-term warming trend over the past 15 years. However, 2014s record warmth occurred during an El Nino-neutral year.5th general assembly of IRENA begins in Abu DhabiThe 5th General Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)has began in Abu Dhabi. Government leaders from more than 150 countries including India and representatives from more than 110 international organizations are taking part in this two day meet. 5th meet of IRENA seeks to address global issues like enhancing the share of renewable energy in the overall energy mix and to tackle global challenges like climate change, energy access and energy security. About International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) It is an intergovernmental organization to promote adoption and sustainable use of renewable energy. It is the global hub for renewable energy cooperation and information exchange within its member nations. It was founded in 2009 and its statute entered into force on 8 July 2010. Headquarters: Abu Dhabi. Members: In total it has 138 Members. India is one of the 33 Permanent members of IRENA.3 day Flamingo Festival begins near Pulicat Lake in Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh3 day Flamingo Festival has begun at the famous brackish water of Lake Pulicat in Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary located at Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh. It will be hosted in Doravari Satram mandal, in Nellore district. This festival provides a unique opportunity for people, particularly ornithologists, environmentalists, bird watchers, forest and tourism officials To study the bio-diversity of Pulicat and Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary To initiate measure to conserve the bio-zones for future generations in this area. It also promotes eco-tourism in the district. In this three day festival, several cultural and entertainment programmes will take place. Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary The Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary, considered one of the biggest habitats for some hundreds of pelicans and other birds. It is located about 20 km north of the Pulicat Lake on the Andhra Pradesh-Tamil Nadu border. This sanctuary spread in an area about 459 hectares. Every year from October to March, different species of migratory birds, roosting migrants and some rare and endangered species from various parts of the world visit the habitat. This sanctuary plays important role in nesting of various birds especially migratory birds. Birds found in this sanctuary are: Flamingos, Pelicans, Siberian Storks, Open Billed Storks, Night Herons, Egrets, Little Cormorant, Golden Backed Wood Pecker, Spotted and Ring Doves, King Fishers, Painted Storks, White Necked Storks, Spoon Bills and other species of birds. The villagers in area nearby to this sanctuary treat the migratory birds with affection and provide protection to them.Second National Biodiversity Conference 2015 Will be held in KeralaThe National Biodiversity Conference (NBC)-2015 will be held in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala from 23rd to 27th February. It will be second edition of this biodiversity conference and its focal theme for 2015 is Biodiversity: Access and Benefit Sharing. NBC is being organized as the most important biodiversity mega event of India, under the auspices of MoEF and National Biodiversity Authority and all other organisations involved in conservation and promotion of biodiversity in the country. 2 edition of NBC will consists of conference, workshops and exhibitions that will help to create awareness for accounting natural capital as a national asset. All conservation leaders and natural resource managers are going to participate in this conference to promote sustainable development. Background: It is a biennial event and first NBC was organized by Kerala State Biodiversity Board (KSBB) in Thiruvananthapuram. The theme of NBC 2012 was Biodiversity for food security.For first time 19 swamp deer translocated from Kaziranga to Manas National ParkFor the first time in India, a herd of 19 swamp deer were translocated from Kaziranga National Park to Manas National Park in Assam. It was part of Eastern Swamp Deer Conservation Project to source their population to Manas National Park. This translocation initiative was initiated by a team of experts from the Assam Forest Department (AFD), Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) and Assam College of Veterinary Science. As a part of translocation, they were transported more than 400 kms away from present habitat and were released in a specially prepared enclosure or boma in Manas. This boma (enclosure) is secured by a two-line power fence installed over a barrier to deter leopards. In this enclosure, they are provided with transplanted short grass originally from their habitat to ensure well- being of the herd. As part of translocation they will kept in boma for the first few months and later will be released in the park in batches. While some of them will be kept in the boma for breeding purposes. Swamp deer (Rucervus duvaucelii ranjitsinhi) are popularly known as Barasingha. Its entire population is currently found only in Kaziranga National Park. Eastern Swamp Deer Conservation Project- It is an ecological research programme of AFD and WTI along with ONGC started in 2010. The aim of the project is to understand the ecology of the eastern swamp deer and develop management strategies for conservation of their last surviving population in India. The project generally focuses on researching diet, genetic constitution and behaviour of swap deers which will provide useful insight for scientific management of the sub-species in Kaziranga, along with creating a second home in Manas National Park. Translocation: It is awildlife conservation biology which includes capture, transport and release or introduce species from their original habitat to another habitat far away. It seeks to reduce the risk of theirextinctionby increasing, augmenting their critical population.

NGT forms panel to dispose sand on Yamuna riverbedNational Green Tribunal (NGT) has constituted a committee to weigh and dispose around 70,000 cubic metre of sand and clay lying on the riverbed of Yamuna at Wazirabad and Jagatpur bund areas in New Delhi. This decision was taken by a bench headed by NGT chairperson Justice Swantanter Kumar after Delhi Jal Board (DJB) had informed NGT regarding disposing of sand and clay lying on the river bed to contractors which was banned earlier. Guidelines set by NGT bench The committee will deposit entire earning from this sand and clay with DJB. Mining in the name of dredging will be carried out by any of the respondents till the next date of hearing on January 27, 2015. The royalty would be computed on actual content of clay and sand in the dredging material. Background Earlier, NGT had completely banned sand mining in the name of dredging on Yamuna River at the two sites. This decision was taken after a petition seeking a complete ban on illegal sand mining in New Delhi without obtaining environmental clearance. About National Green Tribunal National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 (NGT) is a federal legislation enacted by the ParliamentofIndia, under Indias constitutional provision of Article 21, which assures the citizens of India the right to a healthyenvironment. The tribunal itself is a special fast-track court to handle the expeditious disposal of the cases pertaining to environmental issues.

Bangladesh oil spill disaster threatens wildlife Sundabans forestBangladeshs oil spill disaster is considered as ecological catastrophe which may threaten rare dolphins, other wildlife species and worlds largest mangrove forests in the Sundrbans. Oil spill disaster:The tanker carrying an estimated 350,000 litres of furnace oil partly sank in the Sundarbans Shela River after it collided with another vessel. These oil slicks have spread over a 60 kilometre-long area and have entered into another river as well as a network of canals in the vast Sundarbans delta which comprises a network of rivers and canals straddling Bangladesh and India. Environmental Impact This disaster may be considered as an ecological catastrophe and can destroy the delicate ecology of the Sundarbans a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site. Sundrban has worlds largest mangrove forest which is home to wide range of fauna, including 260 bird species, the Bengal tiger and other threatened species such as the estuarine crocodile and the Indian python. It is also home to the rare Irrawaddy dolphin. The oil spills has already blackened the shoreline and started degrading the water quality, threatening trees, plankton, vast populations of small fishes. Rare Irrawaddy dolphin may be the first victim of this oil spill as the thick layer of oil on the surface of the river may cut down the dissolved oxygen, leading to suffocation of these dolphins due to lack of oxygen. It may even threaten Sunderban tigers as there feed on herbivores animals like deer and other are going to suffer from oil spill as their vegetation may be covered by a thick layer of oil and rinse into the soil once the water recedes during the tides.

Typhoon Hagupit approaches PhilippinesTyphoon Hagupit has approached Philippines and has made landfall in the town of Dolores in the eastern Philippines with terrifying winds and intense rain pounding in the eastern part. The powerful storm from the typhoon which has its origin from the Pacific Ocean crashed into the remote fishing communities of Samar Island with wind gusts of 210 km/hr. Almost 7 lakh people were evacuated before the typhoon. United Nations has mentioned it as one of the worlds biggest peacetime evacuations. Typhoo Hagupit is expected to make five landfalls as it crosses the Philippines before leaving the country by 10th December 2014.

India helps Maldives to tackle drinking water crisisIndia helped Maldives to tackle drinking water crisis after the only water desalination plant in Maldives capital Male, had caught fire and had to be shut down. Due to this emergency over 100,000 residents of Male were left without drinking water Earlier, Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen had declared a crisis situation and had appealed to India, Sri Lanka and China and the United States for help. Indias help: In the response to Maldives urgent call, India has sent over 200 tonnes of drinking water through 5 IAF heavy-lift aircraft and also pressed into service naval warships to supply potable water to Male. Indian Navys patrol vessel INS Sukanya already has reached Male and will be stationed there to produce water round the clock to meet the water crisis. It is carrying 35 tonnes of fresh water and has two reverse osmosis (RO) plants onboard which have a capacity of producing 20 tonnes of fresh water per day

Guru Ghasidas National Park in Chhattisgarh to be declared as Tiger ReserveTheNational Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has given in-principle approval for creation of Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla tiger reserve in Chhattisgarh. The NTCA in this regard has sought a final proposal from the Chhattisgarh state administration. Guru Ghasidas national park lies between two important tiger reserves- Bandhavgarh (Madhya Pradesh) and Palamau (Jharkhand) and is also contiguous with the Sanjay-Dubri tiger reserve (Madhya Pradesh). Background In June 2011, the proposal to declare Guru Ghasidas National Park as a tiger reserve was proposed by the then Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Environment and Forests Jairam Ramesh to Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh. The proposal was made after the area was surveyed by the Wildlife Institute of India in 2010. The survey had clearly mentioned that, though the prey population in the habitat is low at present, it has considerable diversity. Therefore, with good management and protection under Project Tiger, the area has a potential for supporting a viable tiger population along with the Sanjay-Dubri tiger reserve. At present, Chhattisgarh has three tiger reserves- Indravati, Udanti-Sitanadi and Achanakmar. According to an NTCA, these reserves have 26 tigers as per Tiger census of 2010.2015 to be celebrated as year of Water Conservation in India

The year 2015-16 will be observed as water conservation year in India. Recently, it was announced by the Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Minister Uma Bharti while inaugurating an international seminar on water risk and water stewardship held at New Delhi. To mark this conservation year, a public movement will be launched. The cooperation of state governments, NGOs, civil society, youth and retired personnel will be taken to meet efforts aimed at conserving water. As per minister, public movement has become a necessity for conservation of water and river in the country as it is an important element of development.

Environment Ministry approves Waiver of Mandatory green Clearances for strategic border roadsMinistry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) has given in-principle approval to Union Home Ministry and Ministry for Road Transport and Highways for waiver of mandatory forest and environment clearances for construction of strategic roads and bridges along border. This in-principle approval by MoEF was granted in order to expedite strategic border projects under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for creation of border security related infrastructure within five kilometres aerial distance from the International Border. Earlier, Union Home Ministry had requested MoEF to exempt environment clearance for infrastructure projects falling within 100 km from Line of Control (LoC), Line of Actual Control (LAC) and International Border (IB). In response to this request, MoEF has allowed diversion of land for setting up of surveillance equipment within 5 km from the International Border and 100 km from LAC. Ministry of Road Transport and Highways also had requested MoEF to give environment and forest clearances at their respective state level in order to expedite these infrastructure projects along the States having borders. The states mentioned were: Bihar, West Bengal, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Rajasthan, Punjab and Gujarat. MoEF gave approval to Ministry of Road Transport and Highways under Forest (Conservation) Act for creation of security related installations for all states having international border except to the state of Jammu & Kashmir as this Act do not extend to it. Implications of this decision on strategic border projects Paramilitary organisations like Border Security Force (BSF) and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) are the first line of defence along the IB. This approval will help them to meet their most of installations requirements such as border roads, fencing, Border Outposts, floodlights, surveillance and power infrastructure are required to be created along or near the IB. Due to the inhospitable terrain along the LAC, installations of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police deployed along the LAC as first line defence, are required to be created at far away distance from the LAC. Now they can construct strategic installations within 100kms of LAC. These strategic projects will help to tackle repeated incursions along LoC, LAC and IB.

Newton- Bhabha fund announced by UK and IndiaIndia and United Kingdom (UK) have announced a Newton-Bhabha Fund programme to scale up their bilateral research & innovation relationship to a greater level. This new initiative was announced during a meeting between Union Minister for Science and Technology Dr. Harsh Vardhan and the UK Minister for Universities, Science and Cities Greg Clark, who co-chaired the 4th UK-India Science and Innovation Council (SIC) held at new Delhi. The Newton-Bhabha Fund is a programme which aims to build up strong interdisciplinary dimension that will further strategise the science, research and innovation cooperation between the UK and India. For this programme UK will provide 50 million pounds over 5 years period and India will provide similar matched efforts. Key Features: Newton-Bhabha programme Joint PhD student mobility programme: It aims to pave the way for the next generation of researchers in the UK and India to interact with each other and build long-term R&D linkages and collaborations. This mobility programme will be administered by British Council India and the Department of Science and Technology. It will start from March 2015 to sponsor UK and Indian PhD students to spend a period of their study (3 to 6 months) in Premier Indian and UK higher education institutions. New research projects in Mental Health and Substance Abuse: These new projects will be joint initiative of Medical Research Council (MRC) of UK and Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). ICMR will fund the Indian component for this project while UK will provide up to 2 million pounds. Setting up Centres for research in Renewable Energy: These centres will be jointly co-funded by RCUK Energy programme and Department of Science and Technology (DST) of India. UK and the Department of Science & Technology of India will provide support to business-led research and development aimed at tackling societal challenges. Centre Partnerships in Cancer Biology, Translational Regenerative Medicines in Neuroscience and Antimicrobial Resistance: It will be funded jointly up to 7 million pounds by Medical Research Council (MRC) of UK and Department of Biotechnology (DBT), India.Worlds tallest hybrid wind turbine installed in KutchWind turbine manufacturer Suzlon Energy has installed the worlds first and tallest hybrid wind generator turbine in Kutch, Gujarat. This installation was part Gujarats focused approach on enhancing Renewable Energy Portfolio in order to meet the dual objective of Sustainable Development and ensuring Indias Energy Security. In 2008, the Suzlon Energy had signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Gujarat Government to set up 2000 MW of wind energy capacity in the state. Key features of Suzlons tallest hybrid wind generator turbine The turbine will generate 12-15 percent more energy. Hybrid wind turbine will be 120-metre in height. It is taller than conventional wind turbine towers by 40 metres. With this new turbine, the installed wind energy capacity at the Kutch region of Gujarat has gone up to 1100 MW. It makes it the Asias biggest wind energy park at one location. This tower is ideal for low wind areas and the potential is huge. In the next three years, this region will have 2000 MW of wind energy capacity. About Suzlon Energy Suzlon Energy is a leading wind power products and services company with a global footprint. It was established in 1995. Suzlon is credited with developing one of the worlds largest wind farms in the western Indian state of Gujarat and Rajasthan. The company has presence across six continents: North and South America, Asia, Australia, Europe, and Africa. The Suzlon Group has built its presence in over 31 countries and has achieved a milestone by crossing over 25000 MW of wind power installations globally.Canine Distemper Virus pushing tigers towards extinctionAccording to a new study from the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), canine distemper virus (CDV) has the potential to be a significant driver in pushing the tigers towards extinction. This deadly virus is adding a new threat to tiger populations along with to the existing pressures of habitat loss, poaching and depletion of prey species. Researchers have evaluated these impacts on the Amur tiger population in Russias Sikhote-Alin Biosphere Zapovednik (SABZ), where tiger numbers declined from 38 individuals to 9 in the years 2007 to 2012. How the study took place? The scientists used computer modeling to simulate the effects of CDV infection on isolated tiger populations of various sizes and through a series of transmission scenarios. These included tiger-to-tiger transmission and transmission through predation on CDV-infected domestic dogs or infected wild carnivores (such as foxes, raccoon dogs and badgers). High and low-risk scenarios for the model were created based on variation in the prevalence of CDV and the tigers contact with sources of exposure. A key finding of this study Modeling shows that smaller populations of tigers were found to be more vulnerable to extinction by CDV. Populations consisting of 25 individuals were 1.65 times more likely to decline in the next 50 years when CDV was present. The results are profoundly disturbing for global wild tigers as in most sites wild tigers are limited to populations of less than 25 adult breeding individuals. About canine distemper virus (CDV) Canine distemper is a viral disease that affects animals. The disease is highly contagious (via inhalation) and fatal 50% of the time, thus making it the leading cause of infectious disease death. The virus infects the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, the brain, and spinal cord of animals. Common symptoms can include: 1) High fever, 2) Watery discharge from the eyes and nose, 3) Vomiting and diarrhea, 4) Hardening of the footpads and nose, 5) Seizures of any part of the body 6) Paralysis. It is most commonly associated with domestic animals such as dogs and ferrets, but it can infect wild animals.Keralas Ashtamudi clam fishery to first in india to receive MSC CertificationClam fishery in the Ashtamudi estuary in Kolam district of Kerala is the first in India to receive Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification. This certification will help to boost sustainable fisheries while protecting the ecosystem in this Wetland area. It has become the third in Asia to receive this recognition. It is a joint effort of the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Kochi, the Kerala State Fisheries Department and the World Wildlife Fund, along with the local fishing community. What is Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification programme? The MSC programme is the worlds most rigorous, science-based standard criteria for sustainable seafood. MSC certification is basically ecolabel used to monitor the health of the worlds oceans by recognizing and rewarding sustainable fishing practices, influencing the choices people make when buying seafood, and working with partners to transform the seafood market to a sustainable basis. This certification implies the implementation of measures that will ensure that the resource is not overfished at the cost of the eco-system. When buyers choose to purchase MSC certified fish, fisheries are rewarded for sustainable practices. Thus MSC programme helps to harness market forces to incentivise positive environmental change. Globally, over 11 per cent of the annual global harvest of wild fisheries is engaged in the MSC programme. Globally more than 19,500 seafood products are certified and eco-lebeled by MSC. Implications It also opens up the scope for other fisheries in India to work towards MSC certification that will enhance conservation and sustainability of the resource while providing greater economic returns. This may be set an example by showcasing the world that development and environment protection go hand in hand and participatory approach at the local level in managing biodiversity is an important aspect of it. About Ashtamudi estuary Ashtamudi estuary is a Ramsar Wetland of international importance and second largest in Kerala. Clam fishery in this estuary dates back to 1981 and supports livelihood of around 3,000 fishermen involved in collection, cleaning, processing and trading of clams. In 1993, clam commercial fishery had declined due overfishing in order to meet its demand in South Asian countries. In order to stop overfishing strict guidelines were introduced which included closed season fishing, mesh restrictions for nets, minimum export size and banning mechanical clam fishing.Government reconstitutes Prime Ministers Council on Climate ChangeOn 5th November 2014, Union government reconstituted the Prime Ministers Council on Climate Change. The new Council on Climate Change will be headed by Prime Minister. It will formulate and coordinate the National Action Plan for Assessment, Adaptation and Mitigation of Climate Change. The council will have 18 members, which includes 13 government representatives and 5 non-government members. Among 13 government representatives, 8 will be ministers. The council will focus on the following tasks: The new council will coordinate the action plan and advise the government on proactive measures that can be taken to deal with the challenge of climate change. It will facilitate inter-ministerial coordination and guide policy in relevant areas. The council will evolve a coordinated response to issues relating to climate change at the national level. It will provide oversight for formulation of action plans in the area of assessment, adaptation and mitigation of climate change and periodically monitor key policy decisions. The composition of the re-constituted Prime Ministers Council on Climate Change: Prime Minister(Head of Council) Minister for External Affairs Union Finance Minister Union Minister for Environment, Forests and Climate Change: It will assist the Prime Ministers Office in facilitating the work of the council. Union Minister for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation. Union Minister for Agriculture. Union Minister for Urban Development. Union Minister for Science and Technology. Union MoS of Power, Coal and NRE . Principal Secretary to PM (Member-convener of this panel) Cabinet Secretary. Foreign Secretary. Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change. Retained members from previous council R. K. Pachauri, Chairperson ofIPCC and TERI. Nitin Desai. Chandrasekar Dasgupta Newly added members Ajay Mathur, Chairperson, BEE M. Mouskar, retired IAS officer. Previous Council The first and previous was formed in 2007. It was chaired by then Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. It included government representatives and non-government members. But this council had not met for over three years. Sunita Narain, Raj Chengappa, R.Ramachandran,Prodopto Ghosh and RatanTata were the members of this council who are dropped from this years council. The countrys National Action Plan on Climate Change was framed by this Council.

SC gives free hand to NGT to whip Ganga Polluting IndustriesThe SC has asked the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to actively involve itself in the cleaning up of the Ganges river Inactivity of other bodies The SC asked the NGT to step in and take up the task of closing down industries polluting Ganga and take action against industries failing to install adequate anti-pollution measures to treat industrial effluents by March 2015. This responsibility had been entrusted to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and state pollution control boards (SPCBs). However, these agencies have failed to even implement SC orders which have been passed over the last 30 years to reduce pollutants in the Ganga. Efficient functioning of the NGT The SC opined that the NGTs work, with its expertise in the field of environment, was impressive. The NGT would be in a better position to follow through on judgments and monitor their implementation in certain scenarios like the closure of polluting industries. Also, it can oversee the actions taken by different authorities and environmental agencies. The SC has decided to give a free rein to NGT to take control of the cleaning-up of the Ganga. It will deal with the highly polluting industries which are discharging untreated effluents into Ganga and take appropriate measures, as it deems fit. The SC will retain control of certain matter such as those relating to discharge of untreated sewage from municipalities and towns in the Ganga basin states. The Court also asked the NGT to file status reports after intervals of six months on action being taken by it against polluting industries.Government to soon put up climate Change Adaptation PlanThe Minister for Environment, Forests and Climate Changeannounced that that Government will soon put upa Climate ChangeAdaptation Plan. The Minister made this announcement after inaugurating a national workshop on Scaling up Good Practices for Climate Change Adaptation in New Delhi. Key points: The Minister said that Indians, especially the farming community, are very good at adaptation. Best practices from around the country should be shared. Every city, district and state will have to create its ownclimate change The government has already set aside Rs. 100 cr in the budget for the development of this Plan. The Minister said that the whole world was focusing on mitigation, but stress also has to be placed on adaptation, along with mitigation. The Minister stressed the importance of employment of adaptation techniques like watershed based farmer centric agro meteorology, waterbudgeting, sustainable culture and energy efficiency. He also highlighted the need for setting aside adequate finance and technology to meet the challenges of climate change.

Key Facts About Cyclone Nilofar A deep depression that has formed over the Arabian Sea is expected to turn into a tropical cyclone Nilofar. Nilofar has the potential to strengthen to the equivalent of a Category 1 hurricane before its Arabian Peninsula landfall. In India, the North Gujarat coast is expected to bear the brunt of Nilofar. It is expected to land in Gujarat on October 31 with a wind speed of over 120 kmph District authorities in the coastal areas of Gujarat have been warned to be prepared for heavy rains and storm. The authorities are also monitoring the situation and the control rooms are operational. The authorities of the Kandla Port Trust, State Maritime Board and the Forest Department, besides local leaders in villages have been put on high alert. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the coastal districts of Gujarat will isolated very heavy rainfall from October 30 which will intensify further into a severe cyclone storm within 24 hours Alerts will be issued to concerned local authorities on status of the storm every three hours Other than India, Nilofaris also expected to hit eastern Yemen or Omanwith damaging winds, flooding rain and dangerously rough seas.It is also expected to bring potentially heavy rainfall to parts of Pakistan, especially Karachi. It is to be noted that tropical cyclones are unusual in this part of the world. Generally, only one or two tropical cyclones form every year in Arabian Sea. About Naming of cyclones In the West, hurricanes and tropical cyclones have been given their own names since 1953. This was done in accordance with a convention by Miamis National Hurricane Centre and is maintained and updated by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). WMO is an agenct of the UN and based out of Geneva. However, South Asia and the Middle East did not adhere to this practice of naming storms till much later. In an effort to name the cyclones without offending any of the countries in the region, all the countries came together in 2004 to evolve a mechanism to name the tropical cyclones. According to the agreed upon system, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Maldives, Myanmar, Oman, Sri Lanka and Thailand meet every year and each country submits its list of names. Each country gets a turn to name the storm in alphabetical order. Till now, the countries have decided on 64 names. Hudhud was a suggestion of Oman, while Nilofar was Pakistans suggestion.

Former Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh to be Chair of Future Earths Engagement Committee

Jairam Ramesh, former Environment Minister, has been asked to chair the Future Earth Engagement Committee. Future Earth Engagement Committee The Committee is a global research platform panel on sustainable development. The strategic advisory group was instituted by an alliance of organisations including the UNEP (UN Environment Programme), UNESCO and the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO). However, the Committee is the flagship initiative of the Science and Technology Alliance for Global Sustainability. The committee will provide knowledge and support to hasten the introduction of sustainable technologies. The committee will consist of leaders from stakeholder groups, including business, policy and civil society and will be representative of various societal partners, who can help bring about change. The Committee will comprise of 18 members and will be fully constituted by the end of 2014. Earlier roles in international fora Jairam Ramesh was also a member of the UN Secretary Generals High-Level Global Sustainability Panel between 2011 and 2012. He also played a key role in the UN Climate Change Conferences at Copenhagen in 2009 and Cancun in 2010.

Government to create a SPV for Ken-Betwa River Linking Project

The Centre is planning to create a SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle) to implement the Ken-Betwa River Linking Project. Interlinking the rivers of India has been one of the major initiative of the NDA government at the Centre. Ken-Betwa River Linking Project The Ken-Betwa link is one of the 16 river linking proposals under the Peninsular Component of the National Perspective Plan (NPP) for water resources development. It envisages diversion of surplus water from the Ken basin to the water-deficit Betwa basin. The project will have a dam on Ken river along with a 221 km link canal. The project was conceived in two phases, with the first phase benefitting both states, and the second phase confined to Madhya Pradesh. There are plans to implement both phases at the same time. The project is expected to facilitate annual irrigation for 6.35 lakh hectares and supply drinking water to 13.42 lakh people. Also, a 78MW hydropower plant is expected to become operational after the two rivers are linked. Approvals The project will involve the two neighbouring states of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, both of which have in principle given their consent for creation of the SPV. Also the Ministry of Environment and Forests has given its approval for conducting the EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment) Study for the project.

North east monsoon gets active over South IndiaThe northeast monsoon is active over south India, according to the IMD (Indian Meteorological Department) which has forecast rain or thundershowers in the region. The northeast monsoon is expected to be vigorous over Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and southern interior of Karnataka, and active over Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Most places in Rayalaseema, Karnataka and Lakshadweep, and many places in coastal Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala and Tamil Nadu are already experiencing rainfall.

About Northeast Monsoon The period between October to December in peninsular India is referred to as the northeast monsoon season. The northeast monsoon used to be called post-monsoon season or retreating southwest monsoon season. The northeast monsoon is a major period of rainfall activity over the southern peninsula, especially coastal Andhra Pradesh, Rayalaseema and the Tamilnadu-Pondicherry region. For Tamilnadu, this is the main rainy season accounting for about 48% of the annual rainfall.

Generally, northeast monsoon rains occur in spells of about 3 to 4 days duration. Spells exceeding 4 days occur less often and there are long spells of dry weather with little or no rain. Rainfall is concentrated in the afternoon, evening or early part of the night, except when a depression is formed nearby.

Government to revive Prime Ministers Council on Climate ChangeThe Central government is planning to reconstitute and revive the PMs Council on Cilmate Change. This Council oversaw the implementation of the eight missions under the NAPCC (National Action Plan on Climate Change). This advisory body had not met in the last three years.

An Executive Committee had been set up in January 2013, comprising of officials from relevant Ministries, to assist the Council and monitor implementation of the eight missions. However, despite this, lack of funding and co-ordination lead to slow implementation of proposals under the eight missions. Most missions have been underperforming in relation to their targets.

With renewed emphasis on climate change in the international, the government has deemed it imperative to formulate a coherent domestic climate change policy. The reconstituted Council is expected to review the implementation of the eight missions and undertake a comprehensive reassessment of the countrys climate change policy. Moreover, the composition of the Council is expected to be tweaked to accommodate more members from the industrial sector.

Prime Ministers Council on Climate Change The Council was established in 2007. It was responsible for framing the NAPCC in 2008. The High Level Advisory group was given the role of co-coordinating action plans for assessment, adaptation and mitigation of climate change. It also advised the government on multiple climate change related issues and facilitated inter-ministerial cooperation and coordination in the arena of climate change.

E-rickshaws recognized as special category three-wheeled vehicles

The Ministry of Road Transport & Highway has issued a notification amending the Motor Vehicles Act, allowing e-rickshaws to ply in New Delhi. Earlier, a Delhi HC judgment had banned e-rickshaws due to safety concerns. But, the Centre has recognized e-rickshaws as a special category and has come out with guidelines for their usage. This decision has been taking by the government after taking into consideration the loss of livelihood caused to many e-rickshaw drivers because of the ban.What are e-rickshaws?

E-rickshaws or electric rickshaws are three wheeled vehicles that are operated with an electric motor. The notification defines e-rickshaws as a special purpose battery operated vehicle having three wheels and intended to provide last mile connectivity for transport of passengers.

Restrictions

An e-rickshaws cam carry a maximum of four passengers, excluding the driver, and luggage that weighs no more than 40 kg. The maximum allowed speed limit for e-rickshaws is 25 km/hr and the net power of its motor cannot be more than 2,000 W. Further, a license issued/renewed for an e-rickshaw will be valid only for three years from the date of issue.

Key Outcomes of Narendra Modis US visitA joint editorial released by India and US highlighted the following developments in the bilateral relationship of the two countries:-

Indo- US Investment Initiative

Establishment of an Indo- US Investment Initiative led by the Ministry of Finance on the Indian side and the Department of Treasury on the American side, with special focus on capital market development and financing of infrastructure. This Initiative will focus on increasing investment by institutional investors and corporate entities

Infrastructure Collaboration Platform

Establishment of an Infrastructure Collaboration Platform convened by the Ministry of Finance on the Indian side and the Department of Commerce on the American side to facilitate the participation of American companies in Indian infrastructure projects

Trade Policy Forum

The two countries committed to work through the Trade Policy Forum to promote a business environment that was conducive for companies to invest and manufacture in both in India and US. Also, an annual high-level Intellectual Property Working Group as a part of the Trade Policy Forum will be formed to look into issues related to innovation.

Others

The two leaders also committed to hold public-private discussions in the early part of 2015 under the already existing Commercial Dialogue on new areas of cooperation, including innovation in advanced manufacturing

After reiterating their commitment to working together towards the creation of a new global agreement on climate change, they agreed to hold an urgent meeting of their bilateral task force on HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons) prior to the next meeting of the Montreal Protocol

The two leaders launched a new US India Climate Fellowship Program to build each others long term capacity to address climate change related issues

A MoU between the Export-Import Bank and the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency was signed. This MoU would make up to $1 bn in financing available to India to help its transition to a low carbon and climate resilient energy economy, at the same time boosting American renewable energy exports to India

The countries also agreed to a 10 year extension of the 2005 Framework for the US India Defense Relationship The two leaders decided to intensify cooperation in maritime security, mainly by enhancing technology partnerships for Indias Navy and also upgrading the existing military exercise Malabar.

USA pledged to help India counter the threat of IEDs (improvised explosive devices) through I&T (information and technology)

The two leaders appreciated the establishment and planned first meeting of the NASA-ISRO Mars Joint Working Group under the U.S.-India Civil Space Joint Working Group and hoped for further co-operation in the area of space technology

The two countries agreed to launch a new phase of the India-U.S. Vaccine Action Program and emphasis on developing affordable vaccines for dengue, malaria, and TB

The two countries pledged to work together towards the export of nuclear technology from US to India to make India more self-reliant. In furtherance of this, the countries decided to continue working towards Indias phased entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), the Wassenaar Arrangement and the Australia Group. The American President expressed his support for Indias early application and eventual membership in all four regimes.

Indian scientist Kamal Bawa wins the Midori Prize 2014Indian scientist Kamal Bawa, an eminent professor of biology at the University of Massachusetts in Boston, won the Midori Prize (2014) in Biodiversity for his research, including in climate change in the Himalayas. Kamal Bawa, founder president of the Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE) in Bangalore, will accept the prize with a cash award of $100,000 during the Oct 16-17, 2014 Conference of Parties (COP-12) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in South Korea. India, the at present the chair of the COP-11 and India will pass the baton to Korea at the COP-12 in South Korea. The theme of this years COP-12 meeting is Biodiversity for Sustainable Development. Other Awardees For Year 2014 Alfred Oteng-Yeboah (Ghana) Chair, Ghana National Biodiversity Committee Bibiana Vila (Argentina) Director, Vicuas, Camelids and Environment (VICAM), Principal Researcher, National Research Council (CONICET) Argentina. Midori Prize for Biodiversity Established in 2010 at the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the AEON Environmental Foundation, the Midori Prize is regarded a major element at the service of the objectives of the United Nations Decade on Biodiversity 2011-2020. The Prize honors 3 individuals who have made exceptional contribution to conservation and sustainable use at local and global levels, and who have inspired several biodiversity-related works, as well as fostering consciousness about biodiversity. Each winner gets a certificate, a memorial gift and a cash prize of USD100,000. The MIDORI Prize serves as a key instrument at the service of the aims of the United Nations Decade on Biodiversity 2011-2020.Union Government to fund Swachh Vidyalaya campaignUnion Human Resource Development Ministry to fund the Swachh Vidyalaya (Clean Schools) campaign, via the Swachh Bharat Kosh. Centre will setup Swachh Bharat Kosh to fund the Swachh Bharat (Clean India) campaign. HRD Ministry will anchor the Swachh Vidyalaya (Clean Schools) drive. The campaign purposes to make sure the facility of toilets in all government schools by August 15, 2015. Swachh Vidyalaya campaign is part of mission to make India a clean country by 2019, the 150th birth anniversary year of Mahatma Gandhi. Swachh Bharat Campaign, announced by PM Narendra Modi on the eve of 68th Independence Day on August 15, 2014, is scheduled to be launched on October 2, 2014. As part of the drive, public sector units under 25 Ministries have vowed Rs. 400 crore for the drive and private and public sector companies