Category: Environment

The Ministry of Earth Sciences informed the Lok Sabha (Dec 10, 2025) that offshore mining blocks allocated to private companies exclude all notified Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). First Tranche of Offshore Block Auctions Mandatory Stakeholder Consultations Marine Protection Measures Regulatory Safeguards for Offshore Operations Offshore Areas Mineral Trust Source: PIB

The western tragopan (Tragopan melanocephalus), also known as Jujurana or “king of birds,” is among India’s rarest pheasant species and the state bird of Himachal Pradesh. Population & Conservation Concerns Presence in GHNP Captive Breeding Milestones Genetic Findings Source: TH

Researchers from the GITAM School of Science, Visakhapatnam, have recorded the first verified case of a horn-eyed ghost crab preying on a mottled lightfoot crab along the Rushikonda shoreline on India’s east coast. ● Keystone Species Shows Unusual BehaviourThe horn-eyed ghost crab—considered a keystone species and an indicator of coastal ecosystem health—was observed capturing, handling, and consuming a mottled lightfoot crab. ● Species Usually Occupy Separate HabitatsWhile ghost crabs are Read More …

The Antarctic ozone hole for 2025 closed on 1 December, marking the earliest end to the seasonal phenomenon since 2019. Scientists noted that this year’s ozone hole was relatively small for the second consecutive year, compared to the unusually large and long-lasting holes observed between 2020 and 2023. ● Higher Ozone Concentrations Observed The 2025 hole displayed higher ozone concentrations, signalling renewed optimism about the ozone layer’s recovery. Researchers attribute Read More …

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is issuing heatwave forecasts and warnings across multiple spatial and temporal scales. These alerts are regularly disseminated to the public as well as disaster management agencies to enhance preparedness and mitigation efforts. ● Web-Based GIS Heatwave Portal Launched IMD has developed an interactive GIS-based heatwave portal that displays: ● Climate Hazards and Vulnerability Atlas for India IMD has also created a Climate Hazards and Vulnerability Read More …

A new study published in Nature Sustainability warns that invasive alien plants are spreading at an unprecedented pace in India, particularly in ecologically fragile regions such as the Western Ghats, the Himalayas and the north-east. Researchers report that their range has nearly doubled in these zones over the past two decades. Source: DTE

One year after the ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) launched its stock enhancement programme in Ashtamudi Lake, the short-neck clam (Paphia malabarica) population is exhibiting early signs of recovery. Key Highlights

The Government of India will soon establish the National Coral Reef Research Institute (NCRRI) in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, marking the country’s first dedicated institute for comprehensive coral reef research. Key Points Importance of Coral Reefs Why Andaman & Nicobar? Source: IE

Arunachal Pradesh has achieved a significant scientific milestone with the discovery of a new plant species, Hoya dawodiensis, in the remote Vijoynagar region of Changlang district. The area, accessible only by air or multi-day treks, is among the least explored yet biologically richest landscapes in the state. • Expansion of India’s Floral DiversityResearchers also recorded Hoya yingjiangensis for the first time in India and documented Hoya nummularia in Arunachal Pradesh Read More …

A recent study has found that African forest elephants (Loxodonta cyclotis) are more numerous than previously thought, thanks to a novel counting method using DNA extracted from their dung. The study by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) estimates the population at around 135,690, nearly 20% higher than 2016 figures. • Innovative Genetic “Fingerprinting” TechniqueThe species is difficult to monitor as it inhabits dense, remote rainforests across 22 Read More …

PM1 refers to particulate matter smaller than one micron in diameter. It is ultra-fine, far smaller than PM2.5 and PM10, making it extremely hazardous. Despite its lethality, PM1 is poorly understood and not regulated in India. Health Impacts Why PM1 is Especially Dangerous Regulatory and Monitoring Gaps in India Global Evidence Source: DTE

A team of scientists has discovered that moss spores can survive extended exposure to space. In the experiment, moss spores were left in low Earth orbit for nine months. Remarkably, 80% of the spores remained viable and were able to reproduce once brought back to Earth. Study Details Significance for Space Exploration Why Moss is Special Biological Characteristics of Moss Source: IE

A study published in Science (October 30) reports that chimpanzees may share another trait long believed to be exclusive to humans: the ability to weigh evidence, revise beliefs, and change decisions based on new information. About the Study • Location and team • How the tests worked Bayesian Reasoning in Chimps • What is a Bayesian model? • Findings Social Decision-Making in Chimpanzees • Sharing information about food • Comparison Read More …

Record-breaking underwater heatwave: A recent scientific report reveals that the longest-lasting, largest, and most intense underwater heatwave ever recorded has devastated nearly 70% of Western Australia’s World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef. Source: DTE

The 30th Conference of Parties (COP30) to the UNFCCC concluded in Belém, Brazil, on November 23, 2025, with countries adopting a consensus text titled the Mutirão (Coming Together) Agreement. The pact lays out new commitments on climate finance, adaptation, and support for developing nations, though it notably omits any reference to phasing out fossil fuels. Major Outcomes of the Mutirão Agreement 1. New Climate Finance Work Programme 2. Mobilizing $1.3 Read More …