The 14th biennial lake conference concluded in Moodbidri, Karnataka. It focused on the theme 'Lake 2024 – wetlands for human wellbeing'. Organised by the Wetlands Research Group at the Indian Institute of Science and Alva's Education Foundation, the conference brought into light urgent ecological issues. It concluded with strong recommendations for the government to act on ecologically sensitive areas.
The conference urged the government to notify ecologically sensitive panchayats. This aligns with Section 5(1) of the Environment Protection Act 1986. The aim is to enhance ecosystem health through conservation practices tailored to specific locations.
Oct 20, 2024
India's First Self-Powered Indoor Air Quality Monitor Launched at Thiruvananthapuram Airport
Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh, inaugurated Pavana Chitra, India's first self-powered indoor air quality monitoring facility, located at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. This innovative facility is powered by indigenous indoor solar cells developed by the CSIR-NIIST, utilising locally available materials.
The air quality monitor operates off-grid, highlighting India's advancements in sustainable technology using locally sourced materials.
This initiative reflects India's commitment to utilising home-grown solutions in addressing environmental challenges.
Jitendra Singh referred to Thiruvananthapuram as the 'science capital of India,' recognising its role in scientific research and innovation.
Oct 19, 2024
NITI Aayog to Host International Methanol Seminar
NITI Aayog hosted the Second International Methanol Seminar and Expo 2024 on October 17-18, 2024, at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi. This two-day event was a significant part of India's Methanol Economy Programme, initiated in 2016 in collaboration with the Methanol Institute, USA.
The seminar brought together global experts, industry leaders, and policymakers and discussed the future of methanol as a low-carbon fuel and its role in the world energy transition. Additionally, a concurrent Methanol Expo showcased cutting-edge technologies and innovations in methanol production, storage, and utilisation.
Oct 18, 2024
Kaziranga Named India's Second Largest Butterfly Diversity Hub
Kaziranga National Park, renowned for its iconic one-horned rhinoceros, now gained recognition as India's second-largest butterfly diversity hub. Following Namdapha National Park in Arunachal Pradesh, Kaziranga is home to an impressive 446 butterfly species. This newfound distinction highlights the park's rich biodiversity.
Kaziranga's diverse butterfly population is particularly notable given its location outside the Himalayan and Patkai mountain ranges, where high species diversity is typically expected.
Oct 17, 2024
Assam to Revitalise 129 Wetlands to Alleviate Flood Risks
The Assam government launched an ambitious project aimed at revitalising 129 beels (wetlands), covering an area of 3,800 hectares, to mitigate flooding and boost fish production in the state. These wetlands serve as essential water and fishery resources, offering vital hydrological regulation services, including flood mitigation, groundwater recharge, river flow regulation, and erosion control.
Initially, 190 beels were identified for potential rejuvenation by District Fisheries Development Officers.
The Assam government, in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), selected 129 beels for the rejuvenation project.
These wetlands have been geo-mapped by the Assam State Application Centre (ASSAC).