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).
Oct 16, 2024
Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Inaugurates India's First Biopolymer Facility ...
In a significant step towards positioning India as a global leader in biotechnology and sustainable solutions, Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, inaugurated India's first Demonstration Facility for Biopolymers at Jejuri in Pune.
This pioneering facility has been developed by Praj Industries and represents a critical milestone in India's effort to transition from fossil-based plastics to eco-friendly alternatives, focusing on Polylactic Acid (PLA) bioplastics.
The initiative highlights the country's commitment to sustainability and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a 'Net Zero' carbon economy by 2070.
Oct 14, 2024
Pakistan Secures $10 Million for Innovative Climate Solutions
Pakistan made a significant stride in its climate resilience efforts by securing USD 10 million in funding from the Adaptation Fund. This financial support, approved by the Adaptation Fund Board, will be directed towards the Sustainable Actions for Ecosystems Restoration in Pakistan (SAFER) project, a collaborative initiative led by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination in partnership with the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD).
The SAFER project aims to address critical challenges in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) sectors, particularly targeting vulnerable groups such as women, children, and youth. These communities are often disproportionately affected by climate-induced crises. By focusing on these demographics, the project seeks to enhance resilience and promote sustainable practices that can withstand the adverse impacts of climate change.
The funding aligns with Pakistan's broader national strategies, including its National Adaptation Plan and the Living Indus Initiative. These frameworks advocate for nature-based solutions and ecosystem-based adaptation approaches to safeguard and restore vital ecosystems across the Indus Basin.