General Awareness

ENVIRONMENT - December 2022

Dec 2022

May 29, 2026

Rusty-spotted Cat recorded in National Chambal Sanctuary, UP

The Rusty-spotted Cat, Prionailurus rubiginosus, was documented for the first time in Uttar Pradesh’s National Chambal Sanctuary in May 2026. This record marks the first confirmed presence of the species in southern Uttar Pradesh and adds a new locality to its known range in the state. Researchers from the Wildlife Institute of India photographed, measured and logged GPS locations of the individual during field surveys in the sanctuary. The National Chambal Sanctuary spans parts of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan along the Chambal River and is known for gharials, crocodiles and diverse bird life.

Species recorded: Rusty-spotted Cat (Prionailurus rubiginosus).
First confirmed sighting in southern Uttar Pradesh; May 2026.
Collected data: photographs, measurements, GPS location.
Sanctuary location: National Chambal Sanctuary along Chambal River.

May 27, 2026

Gujarat intensifies Jal-Parab wildlife support in Little Rann of Kutch

Gujarat's Forest Department has expanded the Jal-Parab campaign in the Little Rann of Kutch to counter extreme heat and water scarcity. As temperatures rise above 42–43°C, the initiative provides water through artificial troughs and tanker deliveries, along with rescue support and bird hydration arrangements to protect desert wildlife. Officials noted efforts to ensure continuous water availability for wildlife in this fragile ecosystem. The campaign aligns with broader summer climate adaptation measures and highlights the state’s focus on biodiversity conservation amid heat stress.

Campaign: Jal-Parab in Little Rann of Kutch
Heat concern: 42–43°C temperatures
Interventions: water troughs, tanker deliveries
Additional support: wildlife rescue and hydration
Objective: protect desert biodiversity amid heat

May 16, 2026

Ganges soft-shell turtle satellite-tagged release on Endangered Species Day

India released its first satellite-tagged Ganges soft-shell turtle on Endangered Species Day, 15 May 2026, at Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve in Assam. Nilssonia gangetica, an endangered freshwater species, was tagged to monitor movement and habitat use. The transmitter was fitted under veterinary supervision before release on the Brahmaputra river system. Kaziranga covers about 1,302 square kilometres and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Satellite tagging provides data on habitat connectivity, riverine corridors and threats, aiding conservation and management decisions for this vulnerable species in the Indian subcontinent.

Species: Nilssonia gangetica (Ganges soft-shell turtle), Endangered on IUCN list.
Location: Kaziranga National Park, Assam; Endangered Species Day release.
Method: Satellite tagging to track movement and habitat use.
Significance: Enhances understanding of riverine habitat connectivity.
Context: Part of ongoing wildlife monitoring efforts in India.

Jharkhand to set up country's first Human-Elephant Conflict Research Centre at Palamu Tiger Reserve

Jharkhand will set up the country’s first dedicated Human-Elephant Conflict Research Centre at the Palamu Tiger Reserve. Forest officials said about 20 acres between Palamu Fort and Kamaldah Lake have been identified for the centre, which will function as an integrated research and decision-support system. The facility aims to study elephant behaviour, conflict triggers, movement patterns and human responses through scientific analysis and AI-based monitoring. Initial work will use four domesticated elephants kept at the reserve, following restrictions on commercial uses of elephants. Jharkhand’s Wildlife Institute data show 217 elephants in the state, with around 130 in Palamu, the largest concentration. Authorities report 17 elephant corridors and more than 30 deaths in conflicts since January, with 474 lives lost between 2019 and 2024.

Centre to be located at Palamu Tiger Reserve (about 20 acres planned).
Focus on elephant behaviour, conflict triggers, and movement using AI.
Initial work with four domesticated elephants at Palamu.
Jharkhand hosts the state’s largest elephant population (≈130 of 217).
Over 30 deaths due to conflicts since January; 474 deaths 2019–2024.

May 15, 2026

Bhupender Yadav Launches Lion Species Spotlight Programme at Sasan Gir

Bhupender Yadav launched the Lion Species Spotlight Programme at Sasan Gir ahead of the International Big Cat Alliance Summit 2026. The programme underlines India's commitment to biodiversity conservation through ecological sustainability and cross-border cooperation. It featured educational presentations, conservation films, and participation from students and wildlife experts. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel praised Gir National Park as a model where economic growth and wildlife conservation can coexist. The initiative seeks to raise awareness of lion conservation, highlight global challenges, and promote collaboration among lion-range countries. The event reinforced India's role in wildlife leadership as it prepares for IBCA Summit. Experts emphasized data-driven monitoring and community involvement.

Programme launched ahead of IBCA Summit 2026 at Sasan Gir.
Aims to promote lion conservation; includes educational activities.
Highlights India’s biodiversity goals and international cooperation.
Praised by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel as a coexistence model.
Stresses data-driven monitoring and community involvement.

May 13, 2026

Two Botswana Cheetahs Released into Wild in Kuno National Park

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav released two female Botswana cheetahs into the wild at Kuno National Park on 11 May 2026 after completing quarantine. The release occurred in the Palpur East Range with confirmation from the park’s APCCF and Cheetah Project field director. The move advances India’s cheetah restoration program, which began with the introduction of eight cheetahs from Namibia in 2022 and a later arrival from Botswana in 2026. Officials say the release marks a significant milestone for wildlife restoration and ecotourism at Kuno, with ongoing monitoring to ensure ecological integration.

Two female Botswana cheetahs released on 11 May 2026
Location: Palpur East Range, Kuno National Park
Part of India’s cheetah restoration program
Previous introductions: Namibia (2022) and Botswana (2026)
Ongoing monitoring for ecological integration

PAU Launches QR Treescape Initiative on Campus

Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, launched the QR Treescape Initiative to map campus trees digitally. More than 200 QR codes have been installed on important and heritage trees across the university. Scanning codes with mobile devices provides instant access to scientific and educational information, including botanical and common names, ecological importance, medicinal uses, and flowering and fruiting patterns. The project covers ornamental and indigenous species to enhance biodiversity and campus aesthetics. Trees highlighted include Lal Gulmohar, Neeli Gulmohar, Red Plumeria, Mango, Molsari, and Amaltas. The initiative aims to make the campus a dynamic outdoor learning space.

Over 200 QR codes placed on campus trees
QR codes provide botanical names, ecology, uses, flowering patterns
Covers ornamental and indigenous trees
Aims to boost biodiversity and learning opportunities
Includes Lal Gulmohar, Neeli Gulmohar, Red Plumeria, Mango, Molsari, Amaltas

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