Share of clean energy in electricity still below 30%
Context & Significance Relevance : GS 3(Energy and Environment) Installed Capacity vs. Actual Electricity Supply Historical Progress (2014–2024) Understanding Capacity Utilisation Factor (CUF) Technical & Structural Challenges Solutions and the Way Forward Expert Opinions Broader Implications
Environment Ministry defends revised framework for thermal plants to meet SO₂ emission norms
Context On July 11, 2025, the Union Environment Ministry issued a revised framework to regulate sulphur dioxide (SO₂) emissions from thermal power plants. It has exempted many older coal-based plants from retrofitting Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) devices and staggered deadlines for compliance based on location-based categorisation. Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology) Scientific & Technical Basis Key Elements of the New Framework Category […]
Kaziranga records high diversity of grassland birds in survey
Context & Significance Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology) About Kaziranga National Park Feature Detail Location Assam, Brahmaputra floodplains Total Area 1,174 sq. km UNESCO World Heritage Site Yes, since 1985 Habitat Type Mix of wet grasslands, forests, and wetlands Known for One-horned rhinoceros, tigers, elephants, and now, grassland birds Key Findings from the Survey Species Category […]
Implications of Exempting 78% of Thermal Power Plants
Context Relevance : GS-3 – Environment and Energy; air pollution, public health, and emission standards. What are FGDs and Why Do They Matter? Feature Description Purpose Reduces SO₂ emissions by up to 95% from coal combustion Mechanism Uses limestone slurry or seawater to scrub sulphur oxides from flue gas Relevance SO₂ contributes to PM2.5 formation, acid rain, respiratory and […]
India’s Open Ecosystems: Rethinking Wastelands
What Are Open Ecosystems? Open ecosystems refer to grasslands, deserts, scrublands, savannas, and open woodlands — landscapes characterized by low tree cover but high ecological and cultural value. Relevance : GS-3 – Environment and Ecology; Land degradation, biodiversity, and sustainable land use. The ‘Wasteland’ Misclassification: A Colonial Legacy Official Label Ecological Reality “Wasteland” (as per Wasteland Atlas of India) Functional […]
Rare Great Hornbill sighting in Ezhimala sparks renewed calls
Ecological Context Relevance : GS 3(Environment and ecology) The Sighting: Key Facts Significance of the Sighting Conservation & Policy Implications Indicator Details Conservation Priority High (Endangered, Schedule I species) Conservation Concern Habitat shrinkage, forest fragmentation, poaching Policy Call Need for micro-level habitat protection in coastal areas Research Need Mapping of non-traditional sightings and coastal foraging corridors […]
Environment impact study for Nicobar project downplays earthquake risks
The ₹72,000-crore Great Nicobar Infrastructure Project has raised serious concerns over inadequate seismic risk assessment in a highly geo-dynamic region. Experts warn that the Environmental Impact Assessment downplays the threat of future mega-earthquakes and tsunamis, despite the area’s known vulnerability. Relevance : GS 3(Infrastructure , Environment and Ecology) Project Overview Core Concerns Highlighted EIA Study Limitations Seismic Vulnerability Expert Warnings Data Gaps […]
Endocrine disruptors in plastic waste: a new public health threat
Microplastics: An Invisible, Bioactive Threat Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology-Pollution) Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) in Plastics Reproductive & Developmental Disruption Cancer & Chronic Disease Link India’s Alarming Plastic Footprint Public Health Costs & Governance Gaps Emerging Science: Ageing & Bio-Monitoring (BHARAT Project) Recommendations & Systemic Solutions Short-Term Medium-Term Long-Term
Ministry defers forest land nod for Puri airport
Context & Background Relevance : GS 3(Infrastructure ,Environment and Ecology) Environmental Concerns Raised Olive Ridley Turtles: Migratory Birds: Dolphins & Other Wildlife: Forest & Biodiversity Loss Regulatory & Scientific Inputs Operational Issues Highlighted Comparative Global Perspectives Interlinkages with Key Laws & Policies Additional Facts Challenges & Policy Concerns Way Forward
Crushed stone is being spread across farms to capture carbon
What is Enhanced Rock Weathering (ERW)? Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology) How It Works Effectiveness: What Studies Show Challenges in Measuring CO₂ Removal Other Environmental & Agricultural Benefits Risks & Limitations Carbon Credit Potential