India's First White Tiger Breeding Centre Approved in MP
The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) approved India's first white tiger breeding centre in Madhya Pradesh's Rewa district. This initiative marks a significant step in wildlife conservation, especially since Rewa is historically linked to the last known wild white tiger. The project, initially approved in principle in 2011, will be established in Govindgarh, near the state's only white tiger safari in Mukundpur. The breeding centre is expected to enhance biodiversity conservation, promote wildlife tourism, and create job opportunities for the local population.
The centre is part of a revised master plan for the Maharaja Martand Singh Judeo White Tiger Safari and Zoo in Mukundpur.
Deputy CM Rajendra Shukla emphasized the state's commitment to biodiversity conservation.
Feb 04, 2025
Mount Taranaki Granted Legal Personhood
A historic moment unfolded in New Zealand as the country's Parliament passed a law that granted Mount Taranaki, also known as Taranaki Maunga, legal personhood. This unprecedented decision recognises the mountain as a living entity with rights similar to those of a human being. This move is deeply rooted in the Maori people's spiritual and cultural beliefs and aims to correct past injustices while promoting environmental conservation.
Mount Taranaki holds immense cultural and spiritual significance for the Māori tribes. For centuries, it has been regarded not just as a mountain but as an ancestor, a figure of cultural identity. Māori people view the mountain as a living being that is central to their heritage and traditions. The recognition of Taranaki Maunga as a legal person reflects this long-standing relationship, marking a momentous step in honoring the Māori worldview and understanding of the natural world.
Feb 02, 2025
India Adds 4 New Ramsar Wetlands, First for Jharkhand & Sikkim
India made a significant stride in wetland conservation, with four new sites added to the prestigious Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance. This brings the total number of Ramsar sites in India to 89. Among the new additions, two wetlands from the north-eastern region, one from Gujarat, and Udhwa Lake from Jharkhand were recognised. The inclusion of these sites, especially the first-ever Ramsar recognitions for Jharkhand and Sikkim, highlights India's commitment to preserving its diverse ecosystems.
Jan 31, 2025
Gujarat Declares First Biodiversity Heritage Site
The Gujarat Biodiversity Board announced the designation of the 'Inland Mangrove Guneri' in Kutch as the state's first Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS). This initiative aims to protect a unique mangrove ecosystem that thrives in a non-tidal environment. The site spans 32.78 hectares and is for its ecological diversity. The declaration represents a milestone in Gujarat's commitment to biodiversity conservation.
Jan 28, 2025
Indore, Udaipur Join Global Wetland Cities Network
Indore and Udaipur achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first two cities from India to join the global list of accredited Wetland Cities under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. This recognition marks an important step in India's commitment to sustainable urban development and ecological conservation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated both cities, highlighting the importance of balancing urban growth with environmental sustainability. The accreditation reflects the value of wetlands in providing ecological, social, and economic benefits, making them vital for the sustainable development of cities.
Both cities were nominated by the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change (MoEF&CC).
Indore: Sirpur Lake, a Ramsar site, is recognised for its significance as a water bird congregation area and is being developed as a bird sanctuary.
Udaipur: Surrounded by five major wetlands, including Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, and Doodh Talai, which contribute to the city's culture, identity, and microclimate regulation.