NFR, IIT-Guwahati Join Hands to Replace Plastics with Biodegradable Materials
In a significant step toward promoting environmental sustainability, the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) partnered with IIT-Guwahati to develop and implement biodegradable alternatives to single-use plastics. The collaboration aims to curb plastic pollution and create eco-friendly solutions for railway operations and passenger services.
As part of the first phase of the project, NFR has introduced eco-friendly green bed-roll bags on its trains, replacing conventional plastic bags used to distribute linen to passengers.
Aug 15, 2025
India Achieves 100 GW Solar PV Manufacturing Milestone under ALMM
In a boost to India's clean energy ambitions, the country officially reached 100 GW of solar photovoltaic (PV) module manufacturing capacity under the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM). This milestone marks a massive leap from just 2.3 GW in 2014, showcasing India's progress towards self-reliance in solar manufacturing and its broader target of achieving 500 GW non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030.
Announcing the achievement, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi credited the transformation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership and flagship policies such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for High-Efficiency Solar Modules. The central government's aim is not just to ensure energy security, but to make India a key player in the global solar value chain.
Aug 14, 2025
New Freshwater Crabs Discovered in the Western Ghats in Kerala
The new genus and species, belonging to the freshwater crab family Gecarcinucidae, was spotted in the Ranipuram Hill Station, Kasaragod district. It was named Kasargodia sheebae. The other new species, also from the Gecarcinucidae family, was spotted in Gavi, Pathanamthitta district. This species belongs to the genus Pilarta and was named Pilarta vaman, the researchers said.
Aug 11, 2025
India's Lion Population Rises to 891
India's Asiatic lion population reached 891, marking a 32% increase since 2020 and more than 70% growth in the past decade, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav announced on World Lion Day (celebrated on August 10) celebrations at Barda Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat's Devbhumi Dwarka district.
Calling the rise an astounding success of conservation, Yadav credited the achievement to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, noting his long-standing commitment to Project Lion – first as Gujarat Chief Minister and later as Prime Minister.
Aug 09, 2025
Moldova Becomes 107th Member of International Solar Alliance
Moldova officially joined the International Solar Alliance (ISA) as its 107th member, further strengthening the global coalition's commitment to sustainable solar energy development. The announcement was made by India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) following a ceremonial ratification in New Delhi.
The International Solar Alliance was launched in 2015 by India and France at the COP21 Climate Summit in Paris.
During a formal meeting in New Delhi, Ambassador of Moldova to India, Ana Taban, handed over the Instrument of Ratification to P. S. Gangadhar, Joint Secretary (Economic Diplomacy) and Head of Depository at the ISA.