Ecological Restoration and Forest Governance: UPSC Current Affairs Analysis & Study Strategy
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The Big Picture
Indian forestry is undergoing a paradigm shift from 'afforestation' (mere planting) to 'ecological restoration' (rebuilding ecosystem functions). This is driven by two critical factors: (1) The discovery that 'dense forests' are experiencing a decline in photosynthetic efficiency due to climate-induced heat stress, and (2) The realization that India’s NDC target of 2.5–3 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent cannot be met without integrating 'Trees Outside Forests' (TOF) and agroforestry into the mainstream economy.
Cross-Theme Insight
The tension in forest governance has moved from 'Conservation vs. Development' to 'Centralized Market-Led vs. Decentralized Rights-Led' restoration. While the Green Credit Programme (GCP) seeks to monetize restoration through tradable credits, the Forest Rights Act (FRA) 2006 empowers Gram Sabhas to manage Community Forest Resources (CFR). The success of 2025-26 policy hinges on whether the 16th Finance Commission's incentives (rewarding 'Open Forest' growth) align with the rights of tribal communities or inadvertently favor top-down plantation models.
Textbook vs Reality Gap
Standard textbooks (e.g., Shankar IAS, Ch. 10) define the Green India Mission (GIM) as a 10-million-hectare greening mission. However, current 2025 directives focus on 'Forest Hydrology' and 'Heat Resilience' rather than just canopy cover. Similarly, while textbooks describe FRA as a 'rights recognition' tool (Laxmikanth, p. 757), it has evolved into a 'governance tool' where CFR management plans are now being integrated into state-level Working Plans, as seen in the recent administrative shifts in Chhattisgarh and Odisha.
How This Theme Is Evolving
Policy has moved from the 1988 Forest Policy's 'Crown Cover' focus to the 2023-24 emphasis on 'Carbon Quality.' We are seeing the 'Digitization of Restoration' (e.g., e-Green Watch, drone-based seed bombing) and the 'Financialization of Nature' through the Green Credit Rules (2023), which allow private entities to earn credits by restoring degraded land, potentially for compensatory afforestation obligations.
UPSC Exam Intelligence
Previous Year Question Pattern
UPSC consistently tests the 'Nodal Authority' for FRA (Ministry of Tribal Affairs - 2021, NID 6005) and the 'Authority for Rights Determination' (Gram Sabha - 2013, NID 15010). Recent GS-3 questions focus on the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) missions and carbon sinks. The pattern is shifting from 'Act provisions' to 'Implementation conflicts' and 'Nature-based solutions'.
Probable Prelims Angles
- Nodal Agency for FRA: Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA), not MoEFCC.
- Green Credit Programme (GCP): Distinguish between 'Carbon Credits' (emissions) and 'Green Credits' (multidimensional ecosystem services).
- Definition of 'Deemed Forests' under the Forest Conservation (Amendment) Act 2023.
- ISFR Classification: Difference between Very Dense Forest (VDF >70%), Moderately Dense (MDF 40-70%), and Open Forest (OF 10-40%).
- Nodal Ministry for Agroforestry: Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW).
Preparation Strategy
Key Connections
Sub-Themes and News Coverage (16 themes, 62 news items)
Environmental Knowledge Dissemination and Capacity Building
Focus: A series of institutionalized events—ranging from local community workshops and professional training programs to national summits—focused on disseminating environmental knowledge, sustainability frameworks, and climate policy.
UPSC Value: Demonstrates the multi-tiered approach to environmental governance in India, highlighting how capacity building across community, corporate, and policy levels is essential for achieving national sustainability goals.
7 news items in this theme:
- 2026-02-21 [Environment & Ecology] — Maharashtra's First Net Zero Village: Bela Gram
Bela Gram in Maharashtra was highlighted as the State's first net-zero village during Mumbai Climate Week 2026, driven by panchayat-led climate action. Bela Gram also won the 2024 Rashtriya Panchayat Puraskar. Mumbai Climate Week (MCW) is a citizen-led climate action initiative designed to accelerate climate solutions for the Global South and was held from February 17–19, 2026, at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai.More details
UPSC Angle: Bela Gram is Maharashtra's first net-zero village.
Key Facts:
- Bela Gram is Maharashtra's first net-zero village
- Won the 2024 Rashtriya Panchayat Puraskar
- Mumbai Climate Week (MCW) was held from February 17–19, 2026, at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai
- Bela Gram in Maharashtra is the State's first net-zero village.
- The Gram Panchayat planted over 90,000 trees.
- Households shifted from traditional smoky chulhas to LPG.
- Solar panels were installed in homes, anganwadis, and Panchayat offices.
- 2026-02-19 [Agriculture] — Maharashtra Governor Advocates for Natural Farming at Mumbai Climate Week
Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat emphasized the environmental damage caused by chemical fertilizers and advocated for natural farming at the Mumbai Climate Week valedictory session. He urged climate experts to consider agriculture and the rural economy in climate consultations. He noted PM Modi's encouragement of natural farming through the National Natural Farming Mission.More details
UPSC Angle: Maharashtra Governor Advocates for Natural Farming.
Key Facts:
- Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat addressed the valedictory session of the Mumbai Climate Week on February 19.
- The Governor stated that chemical farming has rendered large tracts of land barren and contributed to the contamination of food grains, water and air.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi has encouraged natural farming through the National Natural Farming Mission.
- 2026-02-14 [Environment & Ecology] — National Environment Youth Parliament 2026 in Nagpur
The fourth edition of the National Environment Youth Parliament (NEYP) 2026 will be held in Nagpur, aiming to encourage environmental awareness and policy dialogue among youth. The event will focus on water conservation, forests, land, animals and people.More details
UPSC Angle: NEYP 2026 in Nagpur promotes youth environmental policy dialogue.
Key Facts:
- National Environment Youth Parliament (NEYP) 2026
- Nagpur
- Vikasarth Vidyarthi
- Environment Conservation Activity (PSG)
- Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Speaker Rahul Narvekar
- Water, people, forests, land and animals
- Traditional ecological values
- 2025-08-12 [Environment & Ecology] — TERI Workshop Promotes Clean Air and Waste Management in Narela
The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) hosted a workshop called “Breath of Change” at the Govt. Co-ed Senior Secondary School, Singhu (Narela). The workshop brought together residents, students, Resident Welfare Associations, and environmental experts to promote cleaner air and sustainable waste practices.More details
UPSC Angle: TERI workshop promotes clean air and waste management in Narela.
Key Facts:
- TERI hosted a workshop “Breath of Change” on August 12, 2025.
- The workshop was held at the Govt. Co-ed Senior Secondary School, Singhu (Narela).
- 2025-05-31 [Environment & Ecology] — Residential Training Program on Sustainability Reporting
A residential training program on 'Understanding Sustainability Reporting in India' is scheduled for June 17-20, 2025, at the Anil Agrawal Environment Training Institute in Rajasthan, aiming to equip participants with knowledge on sustainability reporting frameworks and practices.More details
UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant
Key Facts:
- Residential training program
- Understanding Sustainability Reporting in India
- June 17-20, 2025
- Anil Agrawal Environment Training Institute, Rajasthan
- 2025-05-29 [Environment & Ecology] — India's Commitment to Net Zero Emissions Highlighted at Battery Summit 2025
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized India's advancements in clean energy technologies and commitment to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2070 at the Battery Summit 2025. This demonstrates India's progress and focus on sustainable energy solutions.More details
UPSC Angle: India committed to Net Zero emissions by 2070.
Key Facts:
- Dr. Jitendra Singh
- Battery Summit 2025
- Net Zero emissions by 2070
- 2025-03-29 [Environment & Ecology] — President Murmu Inaugurates National Conference on 'Environment – 2025'
President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the two-day National Conference on 'Environment – 2025' in New Delhi, emphasizing the continuous effort needed for environmental protection and the moral responsibility to leave a sustainable environment for future generations. She highlighted India's commitment to green initiatives and the significant role of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in environmental governance.More details
UPSC Angle: President Murmu inaugurates National Conference on 'Environment – 2025'.
Key Facts:
- President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the National Conference on 'Environment – 2025' in New Delhi on March 29, 2025.
- The conference was organized by the NGT.
- India aims for global green leadership and sustainable development by 2047.
- Union Minister Bhupender Yadav stated India has fulfilled its Paris Agreement commitments on green energy nine years ahead of the 2030 target.
- India has installed nearly 258 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity by December 2025, making it the world's fourth-largest renewable energy market.
Ecosystem Conservation and Climate Action
Focus: A cluster of environmental observances focusing on restoring degraded landscapes, protecting biodiversity, and mitigating climate change impacts.
UPSC Value: Provides a comprehensive view of the global environmental agenda for 2025, covering land restoration, biodiversity, and climate neutrality.
6 news items in this theme:
- 2025-12-11 [Environment & Ecology] — International Mountain Day 2025 Focuses on Glaciers
International Mountain Day, celebrated on December 11, 2025, highlights the importance of glaciers in sustaining life. The global community is emphasizing the role of glaciers in nourishing ecosystems, supporting communities, and embodying cultural identity, even as they face rapid and irreversible change. Fifty UNESCO World Heritage sites are home to glaciers.More details
UPSC Angle: International Mountain Day 2025 focuses on the importance of glaciers.
Key Facts:
- International Mountain Day celebrated on December 11
- Focus on the importance of glaciers
- Glaciers nourish ecosystems and support communities
- Fifty UNESCO World Heritage sites are home to glaciers
- 2025-07-28 [Environment & Ecology] — World Nature Conservation Day: Protecting Natural Resources
World Nature Conservation Day is observed annually on July 28 to raise awareness about protecting nature and conserving natural resources. The Paris Agreement underscores the vital role of diverse ecosystems in achieving climate neutrality and acknowledges the importance of healthy ecosystems in building resilience and ensuring the integrity of all ecosystems and the protection of biodiversity.More details
UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant
Key Facts:
- World Nature Conservation Day is observed on July 28 annually
- Loss and degradation of forests constitute around 12% of human-caused CO2 emissions
- Restoring 350 million hectares of degraded landscapes by 2030 could sequester 1-3 billion tonnes of CO2 per year and generate $170 billion per year in ecosystem benefits
- Marine ecosystems are under assault from pollution, impacting phytoplankton which produce 70% of atmospheric oxygen
- 2025-06-17 [Environment & Ecology] — World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2025
The World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2025, observed on June 17, focuses on the theme “Restore the Land. Unlock the Opportunities.”. It emphasizes the urgent need for land restoration, with over 1.5 billion hectares needing revival by 2030. The observance encourages nations like India to scale up sustainable land management, afforestation, and community-led resilience.More details
UPSC Angle: World Day to Combat Desertification theme: Restore the Land. Unlock Opportunities.
Key Facts:
- World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2025 theme: “Restore the Land. Unlock the Opportunities.”.
- Over 1.5 billion hectares need revival by 2030.
- 2025-05-22 [Environment & Ecology] — International Day for Biological Diversity 2025
The International Day for Biological Diversity, observed on May 22, promotes global biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. The theme for 2025 is "Harmony with nature and sustainable development," emphasizing biodiversity's role in achieving the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The day commemorates the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in 1992.More details
UPSC Angle: International Day for Biological Diversity theme: Harmony with nature and sustainable development.
Key Facts:
- Celebrated on: May 22
- Theme for 2025: Harmony with nature and sustainable development
- Commemorates: Adoption of Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in 1992
- Global participation: 196 countries, including India
- May 22 is International Day for Biological Diversity.
- Convention on Biological Diversity adopted May 22, 1992.
- National Biodiversity Authority is the nodal authority in India.
- 2025-05-17 [Environment & Ecology] — National Endangered Species Day
National Endangered Species Day is observed with the theme "celebrate saving species" to raise awareness about threats to biodiversity and conservation successes. India employs the Wildlife Protection Act (1972) and project-based conservation efforts to protect its vulnerable wildlife.More details
UPSC Angle: National Endangered Species Day theme: celebrate saving species.
Key Facts:
- Celebrated under the 2025 theme: "celebrate saving species."
- India employs the Wildlife Protection Act (1972)
- â‚ą450 crore allocation for wildlife in 2025-26
- 2025-04-22 [Environment & Ecology] — Earth Day 2025
World Earth Day 2025, observed on April 22, highlights global environmental awareness and action with the theme “Our Power, Our Planet”. Originating in 1970, it now involves over 1 billion people in 192 countries. The 2025 theme stresses collective responsibility, urging the adoption of renewable energy, sustainable living, and climate-positive policies.More details
UPSC Angle: Earth Day 2025 theme: “Our Power, Our Planet”.
Key Facts:
- Observed on: April 22
- Theme: “Our Power, Our Planet”
- First Earth Day: 1970
- Participation: over 1 billion people in 192 countries
- Earth Day
- April 22
- fossil fuel use
- rising temperatures
- climate promises
National Sustainability and Conservation Campaigns
Focus: Public awareness campaigns and citizen pledges promoting sustainable habits, fuel conservation, and cleanliness.
UPSC Value: Demonstrates the government's 'Jan Andolan' (mass movement) approach to environmental sustainability and behavioral change (Mission LiFE).
5 news items in this theme:
- 2026-02-14 [Environment & Ecology] — Akashvani News Launches 'Prakriti ki Baat' Series
Akashvani News is launching a new series called 'Prakriti ki Baat, Akashvani ke Sath' focusing on India's environmental achievements. The first episode features an interview with Minister of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav.More details
UPSC Angle: 'Prakriti ki Baat' series launch on Akashvani for environmental achievements.
Key Facts:
- Akashvani News
- Prakriti ki Baat, Akashvani ke Sath
- Environmental achievements
- Bhupender Yadav
- 2026-02-04 [Schemes & Programs] — SAKSHAM 2026 Campaign
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas flagged off SAKSHAM 2026, a fortnight-long campaign from February 2nd to 16th, to promote fuel conservation and sustainable energy practices. The initiative, led by HPCL and other oil and gas PSUs, aims to inspire energy-efficient and greener habits, with the theme “Conserve Oil and Gas, Go Green”.More details
UPSC Angle: SAKSHAM 2026 promotes fuel conservation and sustainable energy practices.
Key Facts:
- Campaign: SAKSHAM 2026
- Ministry: Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas
- Duration: February 2nd to 16th, 2026
- Objective: Fuel conservation and sustainable energy practices
- Theme: “Conserve Oil and Gas, Go Green”
- 2025-10-21 [Schemes & Programs] — Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign 2025
The Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2025 cleanliness campaign, jointly led by MoHUA and DDWS, aims to convert Cleanliness Target Units (CTUs) into model clean areas and maintain high-footfall public spaces. The campaign ran nationwide from September 17 to October 2, 2025, culminating on Gandhi Jayanti, with a nationwide Shramdaan on September 25, 2025.More details
UPSC Angle: Swachhata Hi Seva 2025 cleanliness campaign details.
Key Facts:
- Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2025
- MoHUA (urban)
- DDWS, Ministry of Jal Shakti (rural)
- Nationwide campaign
- 17 Sept–2 Oct 2025
- Gandhi Jayanti culmination
- Nationwide Shramdaan on 25 Sept 2025
- 2025-10-20 [Environment & Ecology] — WWF-India's 'Green Diwali' Campaign Promotes Sustainable Festive Practices
WWF-India's EIACP Programme Centre is inspiring citizens towards a low-waste, low-emission 'Green Diwali' under Mission LiFE, supported by the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC) with a public 'Breathable Art' installation in Rohini, Delhi, symbolizing community action for clean air. It builds on the 'Breath of Change – Clean Air, Blue Skies' campaign.More details
UPSC Angle: WWF-India's 'Green Diwali' campaign promotes sustainable festive practices.
Key Facts:
- WWF-India EIACP Programme Centre
- Campaign: 'Green Diwali'
- Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment)
- Nodal Ministry: MoEFCC
- 'Breathable Art' installation in Rohini (Delhi)
- Builds on 'Breath of Change – Clean Air, Blue Skies' campaign
- Engaged 2,00,000+ citizens across Delhi through 25 awareness programmes
- Clean air initiative
- Swarn Jayanti Park, Rohini
- MoEFCC-sponsored
- Support from CAQM and DDA
- 2025-04-22 [Environment & Ecology] — Government Launches "Green India Pledge" Campaign
On Earth Day, the government initiated the “Green India Pledge” campaign to encourage citizens to embrace sustainable practices like planting trees, conserving water, and reducing plastic consumption. NITI Aayog also released a report indicating that renewable energy sources now constitute over 45% of India's total installed power capacity, showcasing advancements in clean energy initiatives.More details
UPSC Angle: Government launches “Green India Pledge” campaign.
Key Facts:
- Campaign: “Green India Pledge”
- Launch date: April 22, 2025
- Renewable energy share: over 45% of India's total installed power capacity
- Green India Pledge
- Earth Day
- sustainable habits
- tree planting
- water conservation
- reducing plastic use
- NITI Aayog
- renewable energy
- 45% of India's total installed power capacity
Participatory and Community-Led Environmental Stewardship
Focus: These items focus on the transition toward decentralized, community-driven models of environmental management, emphasizing participatory decision-making, indigenous practices, and local ownership in forest, water, and mining sectors.
UPSC Value: Understanding these models is crucial for GS Paper II (Governance) and GS Paper III (Environment and Disaster Management), specifically regarding sustainable resource management and the role of local communities.
4 news items in this theme:
- 2025-12-28 [Polity & Governance] — EPW: Community Stewardship in Forest Governance
Economic and Political Weekly highlights a model of forest governance grounded in community stewardship. It draws on ethnographic evidence of Uju and Rangkang practices among the Anal Naga tribe, arguing that indigenous tribal communities, often marginalised, in fact, practise forms of environmental care that challenge colonial and neo-liberal paradigms.More details
UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant
Key Facts:
- EPW
- Uju and Rangkang practices
- Anal Naga tribe
- 2025-11-05 [Environment & Ecology] — India's Forests as Ecological and Economic Capital
Forests are recognized as India's ecological and economic capital for Viksit Bharat 2047. Effective restoration, rooted in community ownership, ecological science, and fiscal accountability, can transform the Green India Mission into a people-driven movement. This positions India as a global model for climate-resilient restoration.More details
UPSC Angle: Forests recognized as India's ecological and economic capital.
Key Facts:
- Viksit Bharat 2047: Forests as ecological and economic capital
- 2025-07-03 [Environment & Ecology] — RECLAIM Framework for Mine Closures
The Coal Controller Organisation, under the Ministry of Coal, in partnership with the Heartfulness Institute, has developed the RECLAIM Framework, a community engagement and development framework designed specifically for mine closures. The framework recognizes that mine closures significantly impact both landscapes and local livelihoods, ensuring a just and sustainable transition for communities developed alongside mining operations.More details
UPSC Angle: RECLAIM Framework: Community engagement for mine closures by Coal Controller Organisation.
Key Facts:
- RECLAIM Framework developed by Coal Controller Organisation and Heartfulness Institute
- Designed for community engagement and development during mine closures
- Under the Ministry of Coal
- Ensures a just and sustainable transition for communities
- 2025-04-20 [Environment & Ecology] — EPW Analysis: Water Conservation Challenges
According to the Economic and Political Weekly (EPW), effective water conservation requires participatory decision-making and awareness campaigns, but faces challenges. These challenges include the impact of climate change leading to irregular rainfall patterns, increased drought frequency, and rising sea levels.More details
UPSC Angle: EPW: Water conservation needs participatory decision-making and awareness.
Key Facts:
- Participatory decision-making and awareness are needed for water conservation.
- Climate change causes irregular rainfall.
- Increased drought frequency is a challenge.
- Rising sea levels pose a threat.
Implementation and Contestation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA)
Focus: Administrative reviews, conflicts, and workshops focused specifically on the implementation status and challenges of the Forest Rights Act, 2006.
UPSC Value: Highlights the ongoing friction between conservation goals and tribal rights, a critical topic in Indian governance and social justice.
4 news items in this theme:
- 2025-12-19 [Polity & Governance] — National Consultative Workshop on the Forest Rights Act
A National Consultative Workshop on the Forest Rights Act (FRA) was conducted on December 19, 2025, to facilitate dialogue for effective implementation of the FRA. Representatives of Government departments, civil society organizations, and academicians were invited.More details
UPSC Angle: National workshop held to discuss effective implementation of Forest Rights Act.
Key Facts:
- A National Consultative Workshop on the Forest Rights Act (FRA) was conducted on 19th December 2025.
- The workshop aimed to facilitate dialogue for effective implementation of the FRA.
- Representatives of Government departments, civil society organizations, and academicians were invited.
- 2025-08-30 [Polity & Governance] — Forest Rights Act (FRA) Implementation
A UNDP report reviewed nearly 20 years of Forest Rights Act (FRA) implementation, which recognizes and vests rights over forest land and resources for forest-dwelling Scheduled Tribes (STs) and other traditional forest dwellers (OTFDs). The Act grants rights to manage, access, and use forest land and produce, including intellectual property and traditional knowledge.More details
UPSC Angle: UNDP report reviews 20 years of Forest Rights Act (FRA) implementation.
Key Facts:
- Forest Rights Act, 2006 (Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act)
- Rights granted: Manage, access, and use forest land and produce, including intellectual property and traditional knowledge
- Gram Sabha: Initiates, verifies, and decides claims for rights
- 2025-07-06 [Environment & Ecology] — Controversy Over ISFR 2023 and Forest Rights Act
The India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023 has sparked controversy by attributing forest cover loss partly to the implementation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has questioned the scientific validity of this claim, expressing concerns about its implications for the FRA. Civil society organizations have condemned the claim, while the Environment Ministry maintains that the ISFR 2023 shows a substantial increase in forest cover, indicating community-led conservation.More details
UPSC Angle: ISFR 2023 controversy links forest cover loss to Forest Rights Act.
Key Facts:
- Report: India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023
- Act: Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006
- Loss of Mid-Dense Forest (MDF) in RFA: 1,200 sq km
- Loss of Open Forest (OF) in RFA: 1,200 sq km
- Gain of Very Dense Forest in RFA: 2,400 sq km
- Loss of Dense Forest outside RFA: 64 sq km
- Loss of Mid-Dense Forest outside RFA: 416 sq km
- 2025-07-05 [Environment & Ecology] — Chhattisgarh Forest Department Withdraws CFR Order
The Chhattisgarh Forest Department has withdrawn its May 2025 advisory that restricted NGOs, private entities, and other departments from Community Forest Resource (CFR) management activities. The withdrawn order conflicted with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs' 2023 guidelines, which empower Gram Sabhas and their CFR Management Committees to independently prepare and approve CFR plans.More details
UPSC Angle: Chhattisgarh Forest Department withdraws CFR order affecting community forest management.
Key Facts:
- Withdrew: May 2025 advisory prohibiting NGO/private entity involvement in CFR management
- Conflict: With Ministry of Tribal Affairs' 2023 guidelines empowering Gram Sabhas
- Chhattisgarh Forest Department withdrew May 2025 advisory on CFR management
- Conflicted with Ministry of Tribal Affairs' 2023 guidelines
- Empowers Gram Sabhas and CFR Management Committees
Indian Forums on Nature and Sustainability (2025)
Focus: A chronological cluster of conferences, fairs, and events held within India specifically addressing biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
UPSC Value: Demonstrates the domestic discourse and various platforms (academic, government, public) used to discuss environmental policy in India.
4 news items in this theme:
- 2025-11-13 [Agriculture] — Agriculture and Biodiversity Conservation Conference
The ninth international conference on 'Advances in Agriculture, Biological and Biodiversity Conservation – 2025' will be held from November 13–15 in Mysuru, Karnataka. The conference will discuss innovations and challenges in agriculture, biological sciences, and biodiversity conservation.More details
UPSC Angle: Conference on Agriculture, Biological and Biodiversity Conservation in Mysuru.
Key Facts:
- International conference on Agriculture and Biodiversity Conservation
- Dates: November 13–15
- Location: Mysuru, Karnataka
- 2025-10-12 [Environment & Ecology] — Delhi hosts first 'Global Wildlife Fair 2025' to boost eco-tourism
Delhi hosted the first-ever 'Global Wildlife Fair 2025' from October 10 to 12 at the Constitution Club of India, organized by the Delhi Tourism Department and inaugurated by the Minister of Art, Culture, and Tourism, Kapil Mishra. The Delhi government plans to make the Global Wildlife Fair an annual event to showcase the city's ecological diversity and encourage sustainable tourism practices, including weekly nature walks, awareness drives, and interactive eco-tourism programs.More details
UPSC Angle: Delhi hosts first 'Global Wildlife Fair 2025'.
Key Facts:
- First-ever 'Global Wildlife Fair 2025' held in Delhi from October 10-12
- Organized by Delhi Tourism Department
- Inaugurated by Minister of Art, Culture, and Tourism, Kapil Mishra
- Delhi government plans to make it an annual event
- Includes weekly nature walks, awareness drives, and interactive eco-tourism programs
- 2025-09-11 [Science & Technology] — CSIR Event on Global Sustainable Development
The Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) is holding an online event entitled "CSIR for Connect, Collaborate, Converge and Convert (5C) for Global Sustainable Development" on multiple dates in September 2025. The event will showcase CSIR’s contributions to Science and Technology and its efforts towards Global Sustainable Development.More details
UPSC Angle: CSIR event focusing on global sustainable development through collaboration.
Key Facts:
- Event title: CSIR for Connect, Collaborate, Converge and Convert (5C) for Global Sustainable Development.
- Dates: September 11, 12, and 15-18, 2025.
- Time: From 1400 hrs Indian Standard Time (0430 hrs EDT).
- Focus: Showcasing CSIR's contributions to Science and Technology and its efforts towards Global Sustainable Development.
- 2025-06-28 [Environment & Ecology] — Indian Conservation Conference Discusses Biodiversity
The Indian Conservation Conference on June 27, 2025, discussed balancing economic growth with biodiversity, noting India has surpassed China as the most populous country and holds 7-8% of global biodiversity. Discussions included human-elephant conflict, with Orissa losing 125 people and 90 elephants annually, and the rejection of Kerala's demand to declare wild boars as vermin.More details
UPSC Angle: Indian Conservation Conference discussed balancing economic growth with biodiversity.
Key Facts:
- India surpassed China as most populous
- 7-8% of global biodiversity
- Orissa loses 125 people and 90 elephants annually due to human-elephant conflict
- Kerala's demand to declare wild boars as vermin rejected
Forest Finance and Carbon Market Mechanisms
Focus: Items discussing the financial aspects of forestry, including funding gaps, carbon credit trading schemes, and international financing facilities.
UPSC Value: Useful for understanding the economic valuation of ecosystems and the mechanisms of climate finance (CAMPA, Carbon Markets, TFFF).
4 news items in this theme:
- 2025-11-09 [Environment & Ecology] — India's Role in Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF)
India considers the Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF) a significant step towards collective action, noting its own expansion of forest and tree cover which has created an additional carbon sink of 2.29 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent between 2005 and 2021. The payment mechanism is approximately $4 per hectare protected yearly.More details
UPSC Angle: India considers the Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF) significant.
Key Facts:
- Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF)
- India's forest and tree cover has expanded, creating an additional carbon sink of 2.29 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent between 2005 and 2021
- Payment mechanism is approximately $4 per hectare protected yearly
- Tropical Forest Investment Fund (TFIF) invests sponsor money in emerging market bonds, avoiding fossil fuels, coal, and sectors linked to deforestation
- 2025-10-20 [Environment & Ecology] — Safeguards for India's Carbon Market
An op-ed in The Hindu discusses the need for safeguards as India builds its carbon market with the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS), emphasizing that climate justice should not be sacrificed for climate finance. It highlights the importance of transparency, community consent (FPIC), adaptive regulation, trust-building through third-party audits, and justice as the foundation. The article also references the Northern Kenya Rangelands Carbon Project suspension by Verra in 2023 and 2025, which exposed how poorly governed carbon projects can violate community rights.More details
UPSC Angle: Need for safeguards as India builds its carbon market.
Key Facts:
- Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS)
- 175–180 million credits retired annually
- Northern Kenya Rangelands Carbon Project suspension by Verra (2023, 2025)
- Transparency: Mandatory disclosure of benefit-sharing agreements
- Community consent: Institutionalize FPIC before project initiation
- 2025-10-19 [Environment & Ecology] — UNEP Report: Forests Underfunded
The first State of Finance for Forests (SFF) 2025 Report by UNEP highlights that global investments in forests must triple by 2030 to achieve climate, biodiversity, and land restoration goals. Only US$ 84 billion was invested in forests in 2023, while US$ 300 billion is needed annually by 2030 to meet global climate goals.More details
UPSC Angle: UNEP report: Global investments in forests must triple by 2030.
Key Facts:
- State of Finance for Forests (SFF) 2025 Report by UNEP
- Global investments in forests must triple by 2030
- US$ 84 billion invested in forests in 2023
- US$ 300 billion needed annually by 2030 to meet global climate goals
- Governments contributed US$ 77 billion, led by China and the U.S.
- Private Forest finance was US$ 7.5 billion
- Environmentally damaging agricultural subsidies reached US$ 406 billion in 2023
- 2025-03-07 [Environment & Ecology] — Supreme Court Addresses CAMPA Funds Misuse
The Supreme Court of India has sought a response from the Uttarakhand Chief Secretary regarding allegations of misuse of Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) funds. The Compensatory Afforestation Fund (CAF) Act, 2016, and its rules, aim to compensate for the loss of forest ecosystems due to forest land diversion for non-forest use.More details
UPSC Angle: Supreme Court addresses allegations of CAMPA funds misuse.
Key Facts:
- Compensatory Afforestation Fund (CAF) Act: 2016
- National Compensatory Afforestation Fund (National Fund): Managed by Central Government
- State Compensatory Afforestation Fund (State Fund): Managed by State Governments/UT Administrations
Forest Restoration Policy & Green Credits
Focus: Evolution and critique of India's primary forest restoration mechanisms, specifically the Green India Mission (GIM) and Green Credit Programme (GCP).
UPSC Value: Useful for understanding the shift from afforestation to ecological restoration and the regulatory controversies surrounding market-based environmental mechanisms.
4 news items in this theme:
- 2025-11-05 [Environment & Ecology] — Revised Green India Mission focuses on ecological restoration
India's revised Green India Mission (GIM) shifts focus from tree planting to ecological restoration and community participation. A 2025 IIT Kharagpur study found a 12% decline in photosynthetic efficiency of dense forests due to rising temperatures and soil drying, emphasizing the need for ecological resilience. The mission aims to restore 25 million hectares of degraded forest and non-forest land by 2030, linked to India's climate pledge of creating a carbon sink of 3.39 billion tonnes of COâ‚‚ equivalent.More details
UPSC Angle: Revised Green India Mission focuses on ecological restoration.
Key Facts:
- 25 million hectares: Restoration target by 2030
- 3.39 billion tonnes COâ‚‚e: Additional carbon sink target
- 11.22 million hectares: Afforestation from 2015-2021
- â‚ą575 crore: Disbursed to 18 states from 2015-2021
- 25.17%: India's forest and tree cover
- Revised Green India Mission (GIM)
- Focus shift to ecological restoration and community participation
- IIT Kharagpur study (2025) found a 12% decline in photosynthetic efficiency in dense forests
- Aims to restore 25 million hectares of degraded land by 2030
- Linked to India's climate pledge of creating a carbon sink of 3.39 billion tonnes of COâ‚‚ equivalent
- Between 2015-2021, â‚ą575 crore was disbursed for afforestation
- Forest and tree cover rose from 21.16% to 25.17% by 2023
- 2025-09-29 [Environment & Ecology] — Concerns over India's Green Credit Programme
Revised guidelines for India's Green Credit Programme (GCP), particularly regarding tree plantation, have raised ecological and legal concerns. The guidelines, revised on August 29, 2025, define “degraded forest lands” broadly, potentially including ecologically sensitive areas lacking statutory protection and raising concerns about the program's impact on biodiversity conservation. The program also faces criticism for potentially enabling multiple claims for the same ecological benefits through the exchange of GCP restored land for compensatory afforestation.More details
UPSC Angle: Concerns raised over India's Green Credit Programme guidelines.
Key Facts:
- Green Credit Programme (GCP) guidelines revised on August 29, 2025
- Concerns over definition of “degraded forest lands”
- Potential inclusion of ecologically sensitive areas
- Risk of multiple claims for same ecological benefits
- Compromised biodiversity conservation efforts
- 2025-08-30 [Environment & Ecology] — Revisions to Green Credit Programme Raise Concerns
Revisions to the Green Credit Programme (GCP), particularly regarding tree plantation modalities, have sparked ecological and legal concerns. The program's approach to identifying "degraded land" may lead to misclassification of ecologically significant areas, threatening biodiversity conservation efforts.More details
UPSC Angle: Revisions to Green Credit Programme raise ecological and legal concerns.
Key Facts:
- Green Credit Programme (GCP) revised on 2025-08-29
- Green Credit Rules, 2023 under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
- Targets degraded land for tree plantation
- Concerns over misclassification of ecologically significant areas
- Reliance on National Forest Policy, 1988
- 2025-06-30 [Environment & Ecology] — Western Ghats Greening Efforts
An article critiques the outdated data used by the Forest Department (FD) and Forest Survey of India (FSI) in the National Mission for a Green India and argues for a science-based, nature-centric, and people-oriented approach to greening efforts, especially in ecologically sensitive regions like the Western Ghats. A field study in Dandeli showed that the Forest Department's Pre-Investment Survey of Forest Resources (PISFR) overestimated bamboo stocks by ten times.More details
UPSC Angle: Critique of outdated data used in National Mission for a Green India.
Key Facts:
- Article critiques outdated data used by Forest Department and Forest Survey of India in the National Mission for a Green India.
- Advocates for a science-based, nature-centric, and people-oriented approach to greening efforts in the Western Ghats.
- A field study in Dandeli showed the Forest Department overestimated bamboo stocks by ten times.
Agroforestry Policy and Status
Focus: Updates on regulatory frameworks, statistical assessments, and stakeholder discussions specifically focused on Agroforestry and Trees Outside Forests (TOF).
UPSC Value: Connects government policy (felling rules) with performance data (FAO report) and sector challenges (Seed item).
3 news items in this theme:
- 2026-02-09 [Agriculture] — Challenges in India's Agroforestry Sector
India's agroforestry sector faces challenges in access to finance, policy implementation, and farmer awareness, as highlighted during the first South Asian Agroforestry & Trees Outside Forests (AF-TOF) Congress, also known as the 'Treescapes' 2026 Congress.More details
UPSC Angle: Challenges in India's Agroforestry Sector.
Key Facts:
- The first South Asian Agroforestry & Trees Outside Forests (AF-TOF) Congress was held.
- The congress is referred to as the 'Treescapes' 2026 Congress.
- 2025-10-22 [Environment & Ecology] — India's Forest Cover Ranking
According to the Global Forest Resources Assessment (GFRA) 2025 by the FAO, India has risen to 9th position globally in total forest area and holds 3rd spot for annual forest gain. The report highlights the success of government initiatives, including afforestation, forest protection, and the 'Ek Ped Ma Ke Naam' campaign.More details
UPSC Angle: India's forest cover ranking in GFRA 2025.
Key Facts:
- India ranks 9th globally in total forest area
- India holds 3rd position for annual forest gain
- Reported by the Global Forest Resources Assessment (GFRA) 2025 by the FAO
- Initiatives include afforestation, forest protection, and the 'Ek Ped Ma Ke Naam' campaign
- 2025-09-08 [Environment & Ecology] — Simplifying Regulatory Frameworks for Agroforestry
The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has issued Model Rules for Felling of Trees in Agricultural Lands. This is to support states and Union Territories in simplifying regulatory frameworks and promoting agroforestry.More details
UPSC Angle: Simplifying regulatory frameworks for agroforestry by MoEFCC.
Key Facts:
- Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
- Model Rules for Felling of Trees in Agricultural Lands
- agroforestry
The Economics of Forest Conservation
Focus: Reports and policy decisions focusing on the financial valuation, funding gaps, and fiscal incentives for forest conservation at both national and global levels.
UPSC Value: Connects global environmental finance trends (UNEP/UNDP) with India's domestic fiscal federalism (Finance Commission), useful for GS-3 Environment & Economy.
3 news items in this theme:
- 2026-02-03 [Polity & Governance] — 16th Finance Commission Revisions to Forest Formula
The 16th Finance Commission has overhauled the forest formula, introducing incentives for states that demonstrate growth in open forests. This revision aims to promote sustainable forest management practices and biodiversity conservation.More details
UPSC Angle: 16th Finance Commission revises forest formula, incentivizing open forest growth.
Key Facts:
- 16th Finance Commission
- Overhauled forest formula
- Rewards open forests growth
- 2026-01-24 [Environment & Ecology] — State of Finance for Nature 2026 Report
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) released the State of Finance for Nature 2026 report, which warns that nature-negative finance (US$7.3 trillion) vastly outweighs nature-positive investment (US$220 billion). The State of Finance for Nature (SFN) 2026 is the fourth edition of a flagship report that tracks global capital flows related to nature.More details
UPSC Angle: State of Finance for Nature 2026 report by UNEP.
Key Facts:
- State of Finance for Nature 2026
- United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
- Nature-negative finance: US$7.3 trillion
- Nature-positive investment: US$220 billion
- 2025-03-24 [Environment & Ecology] — UNDP Report on Forest Conservation Funding
A UNDP report indicates a significant funding gap in forest conservation, with $460 billion per year needed to stop deforestation, while current funding falls far short. For every $1 spent on forest protection, $6 is directed toward deforestation-causing industries.More details
UPSC Angle: UNDP report indicates funding gap in forest conservation.
Key Facts:
- $460 billion per year is required to stop deforestation
- For every $1 spent on forest protection, $6 is directed toward deforestation-causing industries
- Current payments under the REDD+ program range from $5–10 per tonne of CO2, while the actual mitigation cost is $30–50 per tonne
- Developing countries have $11 trillion in debt
Large-scale Ecological Restoration Initiatives
Focus: Specific, large-scale projects utilizing distinct methods (artificial reefs, drones, afforestation) to actively restore degraded ecosystems across different biomes.
UPSC Value: Provides concrete case studies of restoration ecology (marine, forest, desert) for answer writing on environmental management.
3 news items in this theme:
- 2026-01-12 [Environment & Ecology] — Ministry launches program to combat deforestation using drone technology
The Indian Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change launched a national program to combat deforestation and restore degraded lands using advanced drone technology as of January 12, 2026. Specialized drones will be deployed for precision seed dispersal, particularly in inaccessible terrains, and will be equipped with high-resolution cameras for real-time monitoring of sapling growth and forest health.More details
UPSC Angle: Ministry launches program to combat deforestation using drone technology.
Key Facts:
- Ministry: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
- Program: National program to combat deforestation and restore degraded lands
- Technology: Advanced drone technology
- Drone capabilities: Precision seed dispersal, high-resolution cameras
- Drone use: Real-time monitoring of sapling growth and forest health
- 2026-01-04 [Environment & Ecology] — Saudi Arabia's Desert Greening Plan
Saudi Arabia is implementing a desert greening plan, the Saudi Green Initiative, launched in 2021 under Vision 2030, to combat drought and transform desert regions into green forests. The central goal is to plant 10 billion trees, with 151 million trees already planted and 5 lakh hectares of land rehabilitated. The plan includes a 2-year feasibility study by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture.More details
UPSC Angle: Saudi Arabia's Desert Greening Plan under Vision 2030.
Key Facts:
- Initiative: Saudi Green Initiative
- Launched: 2021
- Vision: 2030
- Goal: Plant 10 billion trees
- Trees planted: 151 million
- Land rehabilitated: 5 lakh hectares
- Scientific planning: 2-year feasibility study by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture
- 2025-08-18 [Environment & Ecology] — Coral Reef Restoration in Gulf of Mannar
Coral reefs in the Gulf of Mannar, Tamil Nadu, are recovering through scientific restoration efforts since 2002. SDMRI and the Tamil Nadu Forest Department have transplanted 51,183 coral fragments onto 5,550 artificial substrates, restoring approximately 40,000 sq. m of degraded reefs.More details
UPSC Angle: Coral reef restoration efforts in Gulf of Mannar since 2002.
Key Facts:
- Gulf of Mannar, Tamil Nadu
- Restoration efforts since 2002
- Led by SDMRI & Tamil Nadu Forest Department
- 51,183 coral fragments transplanted
- 5,550 artificial substrates deployed
- ~40,000 sq. m of degraded reefs restored
- 20 coral species transplanted
- Artificial substrates: concrete frames, clay pots, cement slabs
- Artificial Reef Modules: Triangular (TARs) & Perforated Trapezoidal (PTARs)
- Coral survival improved significantly
- Live coral cover in Vaan Island rose from 31.6% to 42.1%
Eco-Conservation and Sustainable Tourism Initiatives in Indian Protected Areas
Focus: Site-specific regional projects in India aimed at balancing biodiversity protection with sustainable tourism and public awareness campaigns.
UPSC Value: Relevant for GS Paper III (Environment and Biodiversity) regarding the management of Tiger Reserves, Hill Stations, and the integration of conservation with local tourism models.
3 news items in this theme:
- 2025-12-25 [Environment & Ecology] — Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve
To promote tourism and wildlife conservation, Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve recently launched a poster and trailer of a documentary entitled “Enchanting Mukundra”. It encompasses the area of Mukandra National Park, Darrah Sanctuary, Jawahar Sagar Sanctuary, and part of Chambal Sanctuary and is located on the eastern bank of the Chambal River.More details
UPSC Angle: Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve launched a documentary.
Key Facts:
- Documentary: Enchanting Mukundra
- Location: Rajasthan- Bundi, Kota, Jhalawar & Chittorgarh districts
- Tiger Reserve: Rajasthan's third tiger reserve (after Ranthambore and Sariska)
- Encompasses: Mukandra National Park, Darrah Sanctuary, Jawahar Sagar Sanctuary, and part of Chambal Sanctuary
- River: eastern bank of the Chambal River
- 2025-09-05 [Environment & Ecology] — National Wildlife Day Emphasizes Conservation in Jawai
National Wildlife Day, observed on September 4th, 2025, will focus on protecting endangered species in Jawai, Rajasthan, including leopards and migratory birds. The theme for 2025 emphasizes student involvement in conservation efforts. The day promotes awareness and action to combat animal trafficking and other threats to wildlife.More details
UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant
Key Facts:
- National Wildlife Day: September 4, 2025
- Location: Jawai, Rajasthan
- Focus: Protecting endangered species like leopards and migratory birds
- Theme: Encouraging student involvement in conservation
- Objective: Combat animal trafficking and protect wildlife
- 2025-07-02 [Environment & Ecology] — Munnar to become Responsible Tourism Destination
The Kerala government is working to transform Munnar into a Responsible Tourism Destination, aiming to make it a net-zero tourist hub that protects its fragile ecosystem. Munnar is a serene hill station in Kerala's Idukki district and sits 1,600 meters above sea level at the confluence of three rivers—Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala.More details
UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant
Key Facts:
- Munnar is in Kerala's Idukki district and sits 1,600 meters above sea level.
- Munnar is at the confluence of three rivers—Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala.
- It is bordered by the Anamalai Hills and the Cardamom Hills.
- Originally inhabited by the Muthuvan tribal community.
Forest Carbon Sinks and Conservation Status
Focus: Connects global forest advocacy with specific challenges to India's carbon sinks (heat stress) and legal/policy frameworks (Oran lands, Green India Mission).
UPSC Value: Useful for tracking India's progress and challenges in meeting NDC carbon sink targets through forest management and legal classification.
3 news items in this theme:
- 2025-12-05 [Environment & Ecology] — India's Carbon Sink Weakening Due to Heat Stress
Research indicates that India's carbon sink capacity is weakening due to heat stress, which reduces the photosynthetic efficiency of forests. The Global Forest Resources Assessment 2025 (GFRA, 2025) ranks India fifth among global carbon sinks, absorbing about 150 million tonnes (Mt) of COâ‚‚ per year between 2021 and 2025. Recent research by IIT Kharagpur supports this concern, finding that forests' photosynthetic efficiency has declined in key regions.More details
UPSC Angle: India's carbon sink capacity is weakening due to heat stress.
Key Facts:
- India's forests absorbed about 150 million tonnes (Mt) of COâ‚‚ per year between 2021 and 2025.
- Forests' photosynthetic efficiency has declined in key regions.
- 2025-07-15 [Environment & Ecology] — Down To Earth: Key Environmental Topics (July 1-15, 2025)
Down to Earth magazine (July 1-15, 2025) covers topics including the climate link to debt in the developing world, the national character of Indian science, strengthening wildlife protection laws, Supreme Court recognition of Oran lands as forests, rethinking India's poverty metrics, and Construction & Demolition (C&D) Waste Rules 2025. The magazine highlights the functions, challenges, and objectives of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).More details
UPSC Angle: Down to Earth covers climate-debt link, wildlife protection laws.
Key Facts:
- Debt's Climate Link: Rising Sovereign Debt in Developing World
- National Character of Indian Science
- Strengthening Wildlife Protection Laws in India
- Supreme Court Recognises Oran Lands as Forests
- Rethinking India's Poverty Metrics
- Construction and Demolition (C&D) Waste Rules 2025
- CPCB established in 1974 under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act
- Green India Mission (2021–2030) aims to increase forest and tree cover to create a carbon sink of 3.39 billion tonnes
- 2025-03-20 [Environment & Ecology] — International Day of Forests 2025
On the International Day of Forests, the Executive Secretary of the Convention on Biological Diversity, Astrid Schomaker, emphasized the importance of forests for food, livelihoods, and biodiversity, while also highlighting the concerning rate of deforestation and the need for urgent action.More details
UPSC Angle: Forests are important for food, livelihoods, and biodiversity.
Key Facts:
- Theme: Forests and foods
- 5 billion people depend on forests for food and livelihoods
- Forests harbor 80% of all terrestrial biodiversity
- The world is losing 10 million hectares of forests every year
- Wildlife population in forests has decreased by 53% since 1970
- The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) provides a blueprint for halting and reversing biodiversity loss
Regional Habitat Restoration and Ecosystem Recovery Initiatives
Focus: These items focus on government-funded initiatives and multi-agency partnerships dedicated to the physical restoration of degraded regional ecosystems such as meadows, forests, and river systems.
UPSC Value: It illustrates the administrative mechanisms and funding strategies used by sub-national governments to implement large-scale ecological recovery projects.
3 news items in this theme:
- 2025-11-20 [Environment & Ecology] — WCB approves funds for wildlife and habitat conservation
The Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) approved several grants for projects aimed at wildlife and habitat conservation in California. These projects include the restoration of montane meadow and aquatic habitats, protection of riparian and desert habitats, and land acquisition for habitat conservation plans.More details
UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant
Key Facts:
- American Rivers, Inc.: Grant for restoration of approximately 250 acres along the West Walker River in Mono County.
- California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW): Acquisition of 40 acres of land near Trona in Inyo County for habitat protection.
- Western Riverside County Regional Conservation Authority: Grant to acquire 91 acres of land in Murrieta in Riverside County.
- 2025-10-31 [Environment & Ecology] — Wildlife Management Focuses on Habitat Restoration
A conservation partnership is focusing on the restoration of early successional habitats on private and public lands. The partnership includes state wildlife agencies of ME, NH, CT, RI, MA, and NY; the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; and the Natural Resources Conservation Service. Research collaboration is testing the assumptions inherent in the habitat management focus on NEC.More details
UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant
Key Facts:
- state wildlife agencies of ME, NH, CT, RI, MA, and NY
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
- Natural Resources Conservation Service
- SUNY
- UNH
- URI
- New England cottontail (Sylvilagus transitionalis) (NEC)
- 2025-05-12 [Environment & Ecology] — Expert call for ecosystem restoration in West Bengal
Experts and government officials emphasize the need for ecosystem restoration in West Bengal, highlighting the 'Nodi Bandhan' initiative to reconnect rivers and wetlands. The West Bengal government partnered with the World Bank to excavate 700 silted creeks in the Sundarbans.More details
UPSC Angle: Ecosystem restoration needed in West Bengal, highlighting 'Nodi Bandhan'.
Key Facts:
- West Bengal government allocated â‚ą200 crore for the Nodi Bandhan scheme in Budget 2025-26.
- West Bengal government partnered with the World Bank to excavate 700 silted creeks in the Sundarbans.
Environmental and Land Rights Activism
Focus: Citizen-led protests demanding government action on environmental degradation and opposing land acquisition for commercial projects.
UPSC Value: Illustrates the conflict between development projects and environmental conservation/community rights.
3 news items in this theme:
- 2025-11-09 [Environment & Ecology] — Protests in Delhi over severe air pollution
On November 9, 2025, social activists and Delhi residents protested near India Gate against the government over rising air pollution as the city woke up to a thick blanket of smog. The Air Quality Index (AQI) was nearing the 400 ('severe') mark. Protesters demanded urgent government action to tackle the pollution crisis.More details
UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant
Key Facts:
- Overall AQI: 391 (at 7 a.m.)
- Anand Vihar AQI: 412
- Alipur AQI: 415
- Bawana AQI: 436
- Wazirpur AQI: 435
- Rohini AQI: 435
- IITM forecast: Air quality very likely to be in 'Very Poor' category from November 9 to 11
- Stubble burning contribution to PM2.5 levels expected to rise to 31.24%
- 22 out of 39 monitoring stations in Delhi recorded AQI above 400
- Location: Near India Gate, New Delhi
- Reason: Rising air pollution
- Air Quality Index (AQI): Nearing 400 ('severe')
- Demands: Urgent government action to tackle the pollution crisis
- 2025-09-15 [Environment & Ecology] — Maharashtra Villages Protest Adani Cement Plant
Villages in Maharashtra are protesting an upcoming Adani cement plant, raising concerns about the environment, EIA, land acquisition, and livelihoods.More details
UPSC Angle: Environmental concerns related to Adani cement plant in Maharashtra.
Key Facts:
- Villages protest Adani cement plant in Maharashtra
- 2025-03-20 [Environment & Ecology] — University of Hyderabad protests against auction of Kancha Gachibowli forest
Students at the University of Hyderabad organised sustained protests against the proposed auction of the Kancha Gachibowli forest for commercial development. Protesters demanded transparency, environmental impact assessments, and public consultation, linking environmental protection to democratic planning and the right to the city.More details
UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant
Key Facts:
- Protest at: University of Hyderabad
- Against: proposed auction of the Kancha Gachibowli forest
- Demands: transparency, environmental impact assessments, and public consultation
Water Resource Management and Conservation
Focus: Observances and awards highlighting the sustainable management of freshwater and marine ecosystems.
UPSC Value: Connects global water conservation efforts (Oceans, Wetlands) with national initiatives like India's Jal Shakti Abhiyan.
3 news items in this theme:
- 2025-06-10 [Environment & Ecology] — World Oceans Day 2025
The UN observed World Oceans Day on June 8 with the theme “Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us”, highlighting the ocean's beauty, mystery, and its vital role in supporting life on Earth.More details
UPSC Angle: World Oceans Day 2025 theme: “Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us”.
Key Facts:
- World Oceans Day observed on June 8
- Theme: “Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us”
- 2025-03-26 [Schemes & Programs] — World Water Day 2025
The Ministry of Jal Shakti launched the 6th edition of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain campaign 2025 on 22nd March 2025 (World Water Day) with the theme: “People's Action for Water Conservation- Towards Intensified Community Connect”. The government is focusing on 148 districts across India for water conservation, rainwater harvesting, and groundwater recharge.More details
UPSC Angle: Jal Shakti Abhiyan 2025 theme: People's Action for Water Conservation.
Key Facts:
- The 6th edition of Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain campaign 2025 was launched on 22nd March 2025.
- The theme for 2025 is “People's Action for Water Conservation- Towards Intensified Community Connect”.
- The government is focusing on 148 districts for water conservation.
- 2025-03-13 [Environment & Ecology] — Ramsar Award for Wetland Wise Use
Jayshree Vencatesan, co-founder of Chennai-based Care Earth Trust, became the first Indian to receive the Ramsar Award for 'Wetland Wise Use', a prestigious global recognition for sustainable wetland management. The Ramsar Secretariat in Geneva announced the award on the eve of International Women's Day 2024.More details
UPSC Angle: Jayshree Vencatesan is first Indian to receive Ramsar 'Wetland Wise Use' award.
Key Facts:
- Jayshree Vencatesan, co-founder of Chennai-based Care Earth Trust
- First Indian to receive the Ramsar Award for 'Wetland Wise Use'
- Award announced by the Ramsar Secretariat in Geneva
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