The Cheetah Action Plan for Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh outlines key measures to introduce cheetahs to the sanctuary in 2025. These include strengthening the genetic foundation of the cheetahs, relocating leopards from the sanctuary’s predator-proof fenced areas, and augmenting the prey population to support the cheetah's dietary needs. The sanctuary, spanning 2,500 sq. km across Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, offers an ideal habitat with grasslands, forests, and riverine patches. The plan also includes a comprehensive research program to monitor leopards and other carnivores, ensuring coexistence with cheetahs. To establish a genetically diverse and sustainable cheetah population, 12-14 cheetahs will be imported from African parks. The sanctuary is part of a broader cheetah conservation initiative, with habitat restoration and prey augmentation efforts in surrounding areas. The introduction of cheetahs is expected to trigger ecological changes, influencing prey species' behavior and habitat use.

A false claim surfaced on social media alleging that the Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister hosted a lavish dinner featuring 'Jungli Murga' (wild chicken), which quickly gained widespread attention. The story was soon debunked as fake and defamatory. In response, authorities filed a case against the individuals responsible for spreading the misleading information, charging them under defamation and fake news-related sections. This incident highlights the growing concerns over the spread of fake news and its potential harm to public figures. Investigations are ongoing to identify those behind the false reports and take appropriate legal action.

The Supreme Court of India has issued a significant ruling directing the government to create a policy for the protection and effective management of sacred groves across the country. Sacred groves, which are forested areas preserved by local communities for religious and cultural reasons, are crucial for maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance. The Court emphasized the importance of safeguarding these ecosystems, which host rare and endangered species, and also hold cultural significance for indigenous communities. The policy, once implemented, will include clear guidelines for the protection, management, and restoration of sacred groves, helping to address concerns about their degradation due to deforestation and urbanization. This ruling is expected to strengthen conservation efforts and ensure the sustainable management of these vital natural resources.

In a major conservation initiative, three million seeds of the endangered mollusk species Paphia malabarica have been successfully introduced into Ashtamudi Lake in Kerala. This project aims to restore the mollusk population and improve the lake's ecosystem, which is already recognized as a Ramsar Wetland site. The Paphia malabarica species, crucial for both ecological and economic reasons, has been declining due to habitat loss and environmental changes. Experts believe the release of these seeds will help regenerate the species and contribute to the overall health of the aquatic environment. Local authorities and environmental organizations are closely monitoring the progress of this restoration effort, which underscores the importance of conservation in protecting vulnerable species.

In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court has broadened the investigative scope of the National Investigation Agency (NIA), allowing it to probe offences beyond those listed in the NIA Act’s schedule. The Court ruled that the NIA, while investigating Scheduled Offences, can also look into any other offence connected to the case. This ruling came while upholding the Punjab and Haryana High Court’s decision to cancel the bail of Ankush Vipan Kapoor, involved in a heroin smuggling racket linked to terrorism. The judgment clarifies that the NIA’s powers are expansive and may include offences related to terrorism under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), even if those offences are not listed in the NIA Schedule.

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the transformative power of blending India’s ancient knowledge with modern scientific advancements during the celebration of five years of the Science and Heritage Research Initiative (SHRI). He highlighted the government’s commitment to preserving India’s heritage through initiatives like digitalizing ancient manuscripts, restoring artifacts, and using non-invasive techniques for heritage preservation. Dr. Singh also discussed successful examples, such as the Aroma Mission and the Lavender Revolution, showcasing how traditional wisdom can drive modern innovation. He urged Indian scientific institutions to align with global standards and adopt strategies to showcase India’s achievements. The event featured the launch of innovative products, including a crowdsourced Sanskrit dictionary, herbal wound care products, and a virtual reality experience of the Ajanta Caves, underscoring India’s potential to lead in the global knowledge economy by combining its rich heritage with cutting-edge technology.

Jodhaiya Bai, a legendary Baiga tribal artist from Madhya Pradesh, has passed away at the age of 70. Honored with the Padma Shri for her outstanding contributions to preserving and promoting Baiga art, Bai was a pioneer in reviving the intricate traditions of her tribe. Her artwork, which depicted nature, animals, and everyday life, earned national and international recognition. Bai's legacy as a champion of Baiga culture will continue to inspire future generations, marking the end of an era for tribal art in India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the devastation caused by Cyclone Chido in Mayotte, a French overseas territory near Madagascar. The cyclone, with winds reaching 200 km/h, has resulted in at least 22 deaths and over 1,400 injuries. Major parts of the island remain under rubble, and authorities fear the death toll may rise. The French government has deployed additional paramilitary personnel for relief efforts and imposed a nighttime curfew to prevent looting and disease. French President Emmanuel Macron called the situation a "tragedy" and promised to visit the affected region. Cyclone Chido is the strongest storm to hit the area in over 90 years, with neighboring Mozambique also suffering from heavy rainfall and casualties. Experts warn that global warming may increase the frequency and intensity of such natural disasters.

A new report by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reveals that the Arctic tundra, traditionally a carbon sink, has shifted to emitting more greenhouse gases (GHGs) than it absorbs. Rising temperatures, which are causing permafrost to thaw, and increased wildfires are the primary contributors to this dramatic change. The Arctic is warming at four times the global rate, and the thawing of permafrost releases carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) into the atmosphere, amplifying global warming. The report highlights that this transformation could worsen climate change, which is already causing adverse impacts worldwide. To reverse this trend, the report stresses the importance of reducing global GHG emissions. However, with emissions continuing to rise, the prospects of restoring the Arctic tundra as a carbon sink seem uncertain.

A male humpback whale has set a new record by swimming over 13,046 kilometers (8,106 miles) from South America to Africa, marking the longest whale migration ever documented. This remarkable journey, tracked using the Happy Whale platform, sheds light on the migratory patterns and adaptability of humpback whales. The whale, first sighted near Colombia in 2013, made an unexpected appearance in the Indian Ocean near Zanzibar in 2022, crossing two separate breeding populations in different oceans. Researchers speculate that factors like competition for mates and food shortages may have prompted this unusual route. This unprecedented migration raises questions about the whale's integration into the Indian Ocean population, which has been affected by historical whaling. The Happy Whale platform continues to monitor the whale’s progress, offering valuable insights into the behavior of humpback whales and the potential for greater connections between whale populations globally.

On December 14, 2024, Vice President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, presented awards to the winners of the National Painting Competition on Energy Conservation 2024, organized as part of the National Energy Conservation Day celebrations. The competition, aimed at promoting energy-saving practices through art, saw participation from students across the country. In his address, the Vice President emphasized the importance of energy conservation for a sustainable future and highlighted the government's efforts to promote energy efficiency. The event recognized the creativity of young artists who conveyed the message of sustainable living through their artwork. National Energy Conservation Day serves as an annual reminder to reduce energy consumption and adopt renewable energy sources to combat climate change.

A rare sighting of the Little Bunting bird, previously unrecorded in Rajasthan, has occurred in the hills of Mount Abu, sparking excitement among bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Known for its elusive nature and migratory patterns, the bird's appearance in this region adds to Mount Abu's reputation as a hub for biodiversity. Experts believe the Little Bunting may be migrating through the area, as it is typically found in northern and central Asia. The sighting has been confirmed by local birdwatchers and ornithologists, who hope the bird may establish a permanent presence. This discovery highlights the importance of preserving natural habitats and offers new opportunities for ecological research and conservation.

The Nagaland Tourism Department issued a formal apology to the Khiamniungan Union Kohima after the Khiamniungan Tribe’s name was omitted from the Heritage Guide Map displayed at the Hornbill Festival 2024. In a letter to the Union's President, Tourism Director Veyielo Doulo acknowledged the oversight, expressing regret for the resulting "deep discontentment and unhappiness." The department reaffirmed its commitment to cultural inclusivity and pledged to prevent similar mistakes in the future.The Khiamniungan Union had raised concerns about additional grievances, including omissions from the morung display board, cultural troupe introductions, and mispronunciations of the tribe’s name. These issues, described as cumulative neglect, led to community frustration and warnings of potential boycotts.In response, the Tourism Department assured the community of corrective measures and stronger engagement to ensure the Khiamniungan Tribe’s proper representation in future events.

A recent study led by Prof. Mojibur R. Khan from the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST) reveals that the traditional fermented bamboo shoot variety from Tripura, known as ‘Melye-amiley’, has significant anti-obesity effects. The study found that the extract of this bamboo shoot reduces lipid accumulation in cells and boosts fatty acid β-oxidation, which can aid in weight management and metabolic health. The research also showed that the extract activates the AMPK signaling pathway, promoting mitochondrial biogenesis and energy expenditure. These findings, published in the journal ‘Food Frontiers’, suggest that ‘Melye-amiley’ could be a natural solution for combating obesity and metabolic disorders.

A recent study has revealed that the Indian Star Tortoise, native to India and Sri Lanka, is facing an increased risk of extinction due to illegal wildlife trade and habitat destruction. Classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the species is often smuggled for use as exotic pets or in traditional medicine. The study calls for stronger protection measures, including stricter law enforcement and habitat restoration efforts, to combat poaching and preserve the tortoise's natural environment. Conservationists urge a collaborative effort among governments, local communities, and wildlife organizations to protect the species and raise public awareness about sustainable practices.

Annamalai Tiger Reserve, located in the Annamalai mountain range of Tamil Nadu, is one of India’s prominent tiger reserves. Established in 1976 and renamed in 2007, it spans an area of 1479.87 sq. km, covering diverse wildlife, including tigers, elephants, panthers, and more. The reserve is bordered by Parambikulam, Eravikulam, and Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuaries. Key attractions include the serene Amaravati Reservoir, Karianshola Trek, and Topslip, a popular entry point. Visitors can enjoy Elephant Safaris, Jeep Safaris, and trekking through lush forests. The best time to visit is during the winter months, avoiding the rainy season and summer heat. Entry fees apply, with different charges for Indian and foreign nationals.

In India, sacred groves play a pivotal role in both spiritual practices and nature conservation. With over 1 million sacred forests and up to 150,000 sacred groves spread across the country, these areas are deeply revered by Hindu indigenous communities, who believe in the moral obligation of nature worship. These groves, often found in states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, provide vital habitats for biodiversity while being protected due to cultural beliefs that discourage activities like logging or hunting. In Uttarakhand, the sacred groves of the Himalayas are integral to local ethnic identity and are governed by oral traditions. However, challenges such as urbanization and the declining involvement of younger generations have prompted collaboration between environmental organizations and local communities to ensure the preservation of these sacred lands. Efforts like those of the Devrai Foundation focus on expanding these groves by creating devrais (man-made forests), emphasizing community participation in conservation. Sacred groves not only help preserve water quality and biodiversity but also represent a harmonious coexistence of culture and nature. These areas align with the IUCN Green List Standard, highlighting their importance in global conservation efforts.

A tragic incident unfolded in Kashmir when a young girl was thrown off a bridge by her aunt, resulting in severe injuries. Despite being rushed to a hospital in Srinagar, the girl succumbed to her wounds and passed away. Initial investigations suggest a family dispute as the possible motive behind the assault. The aunt responsible for the death has been arrested and is currently under questioning. The local community is in shock, and authorities have vowed to conduct a thorough investigation to bring justice to the victim.

A recent genetic study has uncovered significant links between the Nicobarese people and Austro-Asiatic populations, indicating historical migrations and interactions across the Indian Ocean. The research, conducted by geneticists and anthropologists, analyzed DNA samples from the Nicobarese community and compared them with data from various Southeast Asian groups. The findings reveal shared genetic markers, shedding new light on the cultural and genetic heritage of the Nicobarese people. This discovery opens up new avenues for exploring ancient migration patterns and emphasizes the importance of preserving the Nicobar Islands' rich cultural diversity for future generations.

In a surprising development, a Markhor, a wild goat species known for its spiral-shaped horns, was spotted for the first time in Noorkha village of Boniyar, Baramulla district, North Kashmir. Locals discovered the animal near a waterfall and alerted the authorities. A team of police and wildlife officials responded promptly to ensure the animal's safety. Speculations suggest the Markhor may have crossed the border. Authorities are working to secure the animal while advising locals to maintain distance. The Markhor, native to mountainous regions across Central and South Asia, is a rare and endangered species.

Wisdom, a 74-year-old Laysan albatross and the world’s oldest documented wild bird, has laid her 60th egg at the Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge in the Pacific. This marks her first egg-laying in four years. Wisdom’s remarkable life includes raising up to 30 chicks since she was first banded in 1956. While her long-term mate, Akeakamai, has been absent in recent years, Wisdom was observed interacting with a new partner upon her return. Wildlife biologists are optimistic about the egg’s chances of hatching. Known for their lifelong mating and extended incubation periods of seven months, Laysan albatrosses typically live up to 68 years and thrive on diets of squid and fish eggs. Wisdom’s longevity and consistent contributions to her species highlight her extraordinary journey.

Land degradation is posing a significant threat to the global economy, with experts estimating a $23 trillion loss if not addressed. This environmental crisis is driven by deforestation, urbanization, and unsustainable farming practices, all of which deplete natural resources and disrupt ecosystems. Experts stress that immediate action, especially from the private sector, is crucial in mitigating these impacts. Companies can help reverse land degradation through sustainable practices, investments in land restoration, and adopting regenerative agricultural methods. Collaboration between businesses, governments, and NGOs is essential to ensure a sustainable future and prevent catastrophic economic and environmental consequences.

In January 2025, the Supreme Court will hear a plea that calls for reducing the water levels at the Mullaperiyar Dam, located in Kerala's Idukki district, over safety concerns. The petition highlights risks linked to the dam's structural integrity, particularly due to tremors in the region and its age, as it is over 100 years old. The Kerala government has repeatedly raised alarms about the safety of the dam, especially during the monsoon season. Managed by Tamil Nadu, the dam has been the source of ongoing tensions between the two states. The Supreme Court’s ruling could significantly impact the safety measures and management of the dam, affecting thousands of lives in the surrounding areas.

The National Capital Region (NCR) recently witnessed a rare natural event with the debut of the Eurasian Little Gull, a small bird typically found in Europe and northern Asia. Its presence in India, particularly in an inland region like NCR, is unusual and has sparked excitement among birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Known for its petite size and dark markings, the Eurasian Little Gull is usually seen in coastal areas during its migratory journey. Experts believe its sighting could be linked to shifting migratory patterns influenced by changing environmental factors. Local birdwatchers and wildlife groups are eager to monitor its activities, including potential nesting habits, highlighting the importance of preserving natural habitats to support migratory species and maintain ecological balance in the region.

At the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, 1,500 members of the Angami Naga tribe participated in a captivating and powerful Stone Pulling Ceremony. The tribe pulled a massive 15-tonne stone across four kilometers near Kohima, showcasing their unity and cultural pride. The event, which took place on the fourth day of the 10-day festival, involved men singing traditional songs and women supporting the effort with food and water. The ceremony was flagged off by Union Tourism Minister Ganjendra Singh Shekhawat, who highlighted the importance of unity. The British Council also played a key role in promoting cultural exchanges during the festival, which continues to draw attention to Nagaland’s rich cultural heritage.

On December 4, the Supreme Court of India intervened in a case filed by journalist G. Satyanarayana Gouri, seeking the restoration of two historic buildings in Mysore—Devaraja Market and Lansdowne Building. The case challenges a Karnataka High Court order that dismissed a petition to prevent the demolition of these 19th-century structures for a redevelopment project. The Supreme Court emphasized that while the buildings are not colonial-era, they are integral to the princely State of Mysuru's heritage and should be considered for restoration. Concerns over the financial viability of restoration were raised, with the Court suggesting that private funding could be a solution. The Court has issued notices to involved parties and scheduled the next hearing for January 2025.

Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve, located 20 kilometers from Bhopal, is strengthening its tiger conservation efforts by installing 650 trap cameras across a vast 2,339-square-kilometer area. The reserve, which is home to 785 tigers, is using these cameras to monitor the movements of tigers, track their territories, and ensure protection from poaching. The initiative is part of a collaborative project between the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department and WWF. The Phase-4 camera scan covers both the core and buffer areas of the reserve, with data being collected and analyzed for further management strategies. The reserve’s grasslands are recognized as an ideal environment for big cat conservation, and the monitoring process is expected to help safeguard the wildlife in the region.

CGIAR, a global leader in agricultural research, has unveiled its 2030 Global Strategy for Resilient Drylands (GSRD), aimed at transforming agriculture in arid regions, particularly in Asia and Africa. Drylands, home to one-third of the global population and critical to food systems, face degradation due to water scarcity, land degradation, and desertification. The strategy focuses on developing climate-smart solutions such as solar-powered agrivoltaics, advanced agroforestry, and breeding climate-resilient crops to ensure food security, conserve biodiversity, and build resilient livelihoods. This initiative, launched at COP16, is a collaborative effort by CGIAR centers ICARDA and ICRISAT, which aims to provide long-term, sustainable solutions for the 2.7 billion people in drylands, highlighting their untapped potential as hubs for resilience amid the growing threats of climate change.

The Hornbill Festival, held annually in Nagaland, is the state’s largest cultural event, attracting both local and international visitors. Taking place every December at Kisama Heritage Village, near Kohima, the festival offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich traditions of the 16 Naga tribes. Visitors can enjoy traditional music, dance, food, and crafts, while also experiencing Nagaland's natural beauty through outdoor activities like trekking and camping. Beyond its cultural significance, the festival plays a vital role in preserving local traditions and boosting the state's economy by promoting tourism. Whether you're passionate about culture, nature, or adventure, the Hornbill Festival has something to offer for everyone.

A study conducted in Tanzania's Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) explores the increasing conflict between humans and Cape buffaloes in sub-Saharan Africa, primarily driven by resource competition. The research shows that buffaloes damage crops like maize, beans, and coffee, particularly during the wet season, resulting in significant human-wildlife confrontations. Annually, an estimated 200 human deaths occur due to buffalo interactions. Traditional methods like guarding farms and using fires have been employed by farmers, with success seen in areas where electrified fences were installed. The study suggests new mitigation approaches such as chili bombs, drones, and light torches, while recommending communal guard groups and stronger conservation efforts to reduce conflict and involve local communities in protecting wildlife.

The 2024 Hornbill Festival in Nagaland witnessed a historic moment with the first-ever Log Drum Pulling Ceremony performed by the Tikhir Tribe at Kisama. The event, which saw participants pulling massive log drums, symbolized the tribe’s cultural history and community strength. This unique ceremony was a significant highlight of the festival, showcasing the diversity and depth of Nagaland’s indigenous cultures. Tribal leaders, dignitaries, and festival-goers gathered to celebrate this landmark event, highlighting the Tikhir Tribe’s deep-rooted traditions and their ongoing contribution to the cultural richness of the Hornbill Festival.

Researchers in Meghalaya have uncovered two previously unknown species of feather mites, Trouessartia thalassina and Proterothrix sibillae, found on the Verditer Flycatcher and Small Niltava, respectively. The study, conducted in East Khasi Hills, was led by Ioana Cristina Constantinescu and her team from Romania's Grigore Antipa National Museum of Natural History and Lady Keane College, Shillong. Published in Acarologia, this discovery highlights the intricate biodiversity of India and underscores the role of feather mites in maintaining bird health. The study involved capturing birds, inspecting them for mites, and safely releasing them back into the wild.

The Inland Waterways Authority of India’s (IWAI) Intermodal Terminal (IMT) at Kalughat, Bihar, has earned a prestigious five-star SVAGRIHA rating from the GRIHA Council. This recognition highlights the terminal's commitment to sustainability under the World Bank-funded Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP) for augmenting the capacity of National Waterway 1 (NW 1) on the River Ganga. The eco-friendly terminal incorporates recyclable materials, renewable energy, and efficient waste management systems. Built at a cost of ₹82.48 crore with a capacity to handle 77,000 TEUs annually, it also strengthens trade connectivity with Nepal. This achievement aligns with India's vision of sustainable and inclusive infrastructure development.

The traditional "Gharchola" sarees, worn during weddings in the Hindu and Jain communities of Gujarat, have received the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag from the Government of India. This recognition was presented at the "GI and Beyond – Virasat Se Vikas Tak" event in New Delhi, marking the 27th GI tag awarded to Gujarat. The sarees, known for their auspicious colors like red, maroon, green, and yellow, hold cultural and religious significance. The GI tag highlights Gujarat's commitment to preserving its rich handicraft heritage. Other notable crafts from Gujarat, such as the 'Saadeli' art, 'Soof' embroidery, and 'Maata Ni Pacchedi' handicrafts, were also recognized under the Hastakala Setu Yojana last year.

The worsening air pollution in Delhi, particularly during winter, has prompted a senior World Health Organization (WHO) official, Maria Neira, to renew calls for India to sign the climate health pledge launched at the 28th Conference of Parties (COP28) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. The pledge, which aims to tackle the health impacts of climate change, focuses on actions like strengthening climate-resilient health systems. Despite being one of the most climate-vulnerable nations, India has not yet joined the global initiative, which continues to gain support from other countries. Experts have expressed surprise over India's reluctance, especially given its leadership in climate action during its G20 presidency.

Millions of people in the Indo-Gangetic plain and Himalayan foothills are grappling with severe air pollution, with fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels up to 20 times higher than the World Health Organization's (WHO) recommended limit. To address this pressing public health crisis, the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) has introduced an Air Quality Dashboard, providing real-time and forecasted air pollution data. The dashboard combines ground sensor information and satellite imagery to offer a comprehensive view of air quality across local, regional, and transboundary levels. Key features include a dynamic timelapse tool powered by the WRF-Chem model, which tracks the spread of pollution hotspots such as Lahore, New Delhi, and Kolkata. With daily PM2.5 concentrations peaking at 300 µg/m³, the dashboard highlights the urgent need for regional cooperation to tackle pollution, which contributes to two million premature deaths annually in South Asia. The platform aims to empower stakeholders to make informed decisions and address this critical environmental and health issue.

Recent studies have highlighted the potential of Subabul (Leucaena leucocephala), a tropical plant, in managing insulin resistance, a major concern for individuals with Type II diabetes. Subabul's bioactive compounds, including antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, may enhance insulin sensitivity, helping to regulate blood sugar levels. Early laboratory and clinical trials suggest it could serve as a complementary treatment to traditional diabetes medications. While more research is needed to confirm its long-term benefits and safety, Subabul presents a natural alternative that could offer new hope for managing Type II diabetes.

The sixteenth Conference of Parties (COP16) of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification commenced in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking the first occurrence of this significant environmental conference in West Asia. In attendance are representatives from 197 nations, including India's delegation led by Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav and Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini. A highlight of the conference is India's presentation of the Aravalli Green Wall Project (AGWP), aimed at restoring 1.15 million hectares of degraded land across four states in northwestern India. The project emphasizes innovative approaches to combat desertification, such as afforestation with indigenous species and community engagement. This two-week event, the largest multilateral gathering ever hosted by Saudi Arabia, serves as a global platform for discussions on sustainable land management solutions, showcasing India’s commitment to environmental leadership.