India has reached a significant milestone in its energy transition, achieving 50% of its installed electricity capacity from non-fossil fuel sources, five years ahead of the target outlined in its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.

Key Highlights

• Milestone Achievement: As of June 30, 2025, India’s installed electricity capacity totals around 484 gigawatts, with 50% sourced from non-fossil fuels, marking a major shift in energy policy and commitment to climate action, as stated by Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy.

• Historical Context: In 2014, renewable energy sources constituted approximately 30% of India’s total electricity capacity. This share has seen substantial growth, emphasizing the nation’s commitment towards sustainable development.

• Electricity Generation from Clean Sources: Despite the increase in installed capacity reaching 50%, the actual share of clean energy generation stands below 30%. The share of electricity generated from non-fossil sources increased marginally from 17% in 2014-15 to about 28% in the period of April 2024 to May 2025.

• Annual Production Growth: Clean energy production surged from 190 billion units in 2014-15 to 460 billion units in the 2024-25 period, indicating a notable rise in renewable energy output in line with the increasing capacity.

• Capacity Utilisation Factor (CUF): A critical factor limiting effective utilization of clean energy is the lower CUF associated with renewable sources compared to traditional energy sources like coal. Current CUF values stand at approximately 20% for solar and 25-30% for wind, contrasted with coal’s 60% and nuclear’s 80%.

• Base Load Demand: Approximately 75% of India’s energy mix is supplied by coal, meeting base load demand. Although there is rising utilisation of solar energy, its production primarily occurs during the day, leading to potential shortfalls in the evening when demand spikes.

• Recommendations for Improvement: Experts advocate for the introduction of differential tariffs for electricity, similar to previous telecommunications models, allowing for cheaper night-time rates to encourage energy use during off-peak hours. Implementing this would require enhanced grid flexibility and advancements in battery storage technologies.

• Future Framework: The development of hybrid power projects integrating solar, wind, hydro, and storage elements is recommended to meet India’s growing energy requirements. Such hybrids would allow for energy storage and release during peak demand, particularly during evening hours. However, challenges remain, including land-aggregation issues, ineffective transmission planning, and high costs associated with storage components.

Conclusion

India's progress towards achieving a substantial part of its electricity generation from non-fossil fuel sources demonstrates a shift towards a sustainable energy framework. While the installed capacity has significantly advanced, actual electricity generation still requires improvement in utilization strategies and the incorporation of innovative technologies to maximize the potential of renewable energy.

Important Sentences

• India has achieved 50% of its electricity capacity from non-fossil fuels, as confirmed by the Minister for New and Renewable Energy.
• The actual clean energy generation remains below 30%, despite a significant rise in installed capacity.
• Renewable energy sources comprised about 30% of India’s electricity capacity in 2014, rising to 50% by 2025.
• Capacity Utilisation Factors (CUF) for solar and wind are lower than coal and nuclear, limiting their effective contribution.
• Enhanced grid flexibility and battery storage improvements are essential for optimizing solar energy utilization.
• There is a push towards hybrid power projects to better manage peak and round-the-clock energy demands.

On July 10, 2025, at 9.04 a.m., a moderate earthquake measuring 4.4 on the Richter Scale struck near Delhi, with its epicenter located approximately 20 kilometers southwest at a depth of five kilometers. This incident, while not causing significant damage, underscored the vulnerability of the city’s infrastructure, particularly given that around 80% of its buildings, especially those constructed pre-2000, do not adhere to seismic codes.

Key Points:

• Earthquake Details: Magnitude 4.4, July 10, 2025, 9:04 a.m., approx. 20 km southwest of Delhi.
• Infrastructure Vulnerability: Over 80% of buildings in Delhi lack compliance with seismic codes, raising alarm regarding potential risks.

The event is part of a broader seismic trend in Asia, following various significant earthquakes throughout the region since March 2025, including a major quake with a magnitude of 7.7 in Myanmar and Thailand. India’s geographical positioning, straddling the Indian Plate which is colliding with the Eurasian Plate at a rate of 4 to 5 centimeters per year, contributes to its seismic vulnerability. The Himalayas, shaped by this tectonic activity, are overdue for a significant seismic event, termed a "Great Himalayan Earthquake."

Key Points:

• Broader Seismic Trends: Series of earthquakes in Asia since March 2025, emphasizing regional instability.
• Tectonic Shift: The Indian Plate's northward drift poses a risk of a magnitude 8 earthquake affecting over 300 million people in northern India, Nepal, and Bhutan.

Delhi is categorized in Seismic Zone IV, indicating a high risk, with a peak ground acceleration factor of 0.24g. This poses a direct threat to its estimated population of 33.5 million and its infrastructure, including over 5,000 high-rises, many of which do not comply with the Bureau of Indian Standards IS 1893:2016, which stipulates essential safety measures.

Key Points:

• Seismic Zone Classification: Delhi in Zone IV; risk of significant earthquakes due to proximity to the tectonic boundary.
• Compliance Issues: Many high-rises lack adherence to critical seismic safety codes.

Historical seismic events such as the Bhuj earthquake (2001) and the Nepal quake (2015) starkly highlight the potential devastation that may follow a lack of preparedness and robust infrastructure. The Indian seismic landscape is not limited to Delhi, with other regions like the northeast, particularly Manipur and Nagaland, also categorized in Zone V (very high risk).

Key Points:

• Historical Context: Previous major quakes have resulted in extensive casualties, showcasing the need for preparedness.

Urbanization and inadequate compliance with seismic norms worsen Delhi’s situation, particularly in vulnerable areas built on liquefaction-prone soils. The National Center for Seismology (NCS) has implemented real-time monitoring tools like the IndiaQuake app, although public engagement and action towards disaster preparedness remain insufficient.

Key Points:

• Urbanization Challenge: Increased risk due to rapid urban development and poor enforcement of safety codes.

There exists a global context to seismic activity, with significant tremors recorded in various countries, including a 6.2 magnitude earthquake in Greece. This reinforces the need for India to develop a proactive approach towards building seismic resilience. Lessons drawn from seismic strategies adopted by other countries such as Thailand demonstrate the importance of modernized construction practices.

Key Points:

• International Context: Global seismic activity necessitates heightened vigilance and preparedness at home.

Investment in retrofitting existing structures, rigorous enforcement of seismic guidelines, and public awareness are essential components to mitigate the risk posed by future earthquakes. Experts suggest that sustained annual investments of ₹50,000 crore are necessary to retrofit and strengthen existing vulnerable infrastructure.

Key Points:

• Investment Needs: Estimated ₹50,000 crore annual investment essential for retrofitting and disaster preparedness.
• Future Preparedness: Implementation of strict seismic codes and public education on emergency protocols and building practices are critical.

In conclusion, with ongoing seismic activity both regionally and globally, the Indian government is urged to lead with immediate, effective measures aimed at protecting lives and enhancing infrastructure resilience. The recent tremors serve as a critical reminder of the imperative to shift from a state of vulnerability to one of resilience.

On July 17, 2025, a 7.3-magnitude earthquake occurred off the coast of Alaska at approximately 12:37 PM local time (2037 GMT). The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the epicenter was situated roughly 54 miles (87 kilometers) south of Sand Point, Alaska, with a shallow depth of 12.5 miles. The seismic event prompted the National Tsunami Warning Center to issue a tsunami advisory for the regions of South Alaska and the Alaska Peninsula, specifically affecting the Pacific coast from Kennedy Entrance (approximately 40 miles southwest of Homer) to Unimak Pass (80 miles northeast of Unalaska).

Initially, authorities issued a tsunami warning following the tremor, advising residents to evacuate areas near water bodies, including beaches, harbors, marinas, and bays. However, the warning was later downgraded to an advisory as further assessments determined that the threat of a significant tsunami was not imminent for coastal areas beyond the advisory zone.

Key Facts:

• Date and Time: July 17, 2025, at 12:37 PM local time (2037 GMT).
• Magnitude: 7.3 on the Richter scale.
• Epicenter: Approximately 54 miles south of Sand Point, Alaska.
• Depth: 12.5 miles.
• Tsunami Advisory Issued for: South Alaska and the Alaska Peninsula, specifically coastal regions from Kennedy Entrance to Unimak Pass.
• Public Safety Advisory: Residents were instructed to evacuate the water and coastal areas to ensure safety.
• Historical Context: Alaska is situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a seismically active region. The state previously experienced a 9.2-magnitude earthquake in March 1964—the strongest recorded in North America—leading to significant destruction and over $400 million in damages due to resultant tsunamis.

The advisory reflects ongoing monitoring and preparedness for seismic activities common to Alaska, highlighting the state's vulnerability to natural disasters of this nature. In July 2023, a 7.2-magnitude earthquake also hit the Alaskan Peninsula, but it did not result in major damages.

Important Points:

• The earthquake in July 2025 was significant in terms of magnitude (7.3) and depth (shallow).
• An advisory, not a warning, was ultimately issued after the quake.
• Local authorities emphasized the importance of public safety in coastal regions.
• The incident underscores Alaska's status within a seismically active zone.
• Past seismic events have shaped disaster response and preparedness in the region.

This earthquake serves as a reminder for ongoing advancements in early warning systems and community preparedness in seismically prone areas like Alaska.

The southwest monsoon has gained strength across Kerala after a brief lull, primarily due to enhanced wind flow from the Arabian Sea. Key weather developments affecting the state and related forecasts are summarized below:

• Monsoon Strengthening: The intensification of the monsoon flow from the Arabian Sea is contributing to increased rainfall, especially in north and central Kerala, with some regions in south Kerala also experiencing beneficial spillover rain.

• Weather Systems: The peak monsoon feature, an offshore trough that had previously weakened, has now become active. This trough stretches from the Gujarat coast to the southern coast of Kerala. Stronger westerly winds are expected to transport moisture from the Arabian Sea, contributing to intense rainfall.

• Current Weather Patterns: The monsoon trough is currently linking two depression weather systems: one over central north Rajasthan and the other over Southeast Gangetic West Bengal, with the latter having shifted to Jharkhand. This interaction is enhancing rainfall activities in Kerala.

• Rainfall Projections: The current weather pattern is anticipated to address the rainfall deficit observed in July. Northern and central regions of Kerala are expected to receive substantial rain, while southern districts such as Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam may only experience light, short-duration rainfall.

• Areas of Concern: Heavy rainfall is anticipated in Wayanad and Idukki districts. While these areas have seen normal precipitation recently, they have been affected by relatively weak monsoon conditions earlier in July compared to the months preceding it.

• Soil Saturation: The Ghat regions have accumulated rainfall that has saturated the soil, increasing the risk of flooding during periods of excess rainfall.

• Alerts Issued: Although no official red alert has been issued, conditions resembling a red alert are expected for central and northern parts of Kerala over the weekend. An orange alert has been declared for five districts – Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kannur, and Kasaragod – indicating heavy to very heavy rain on Wednesday. Additionally, a yellow alert has been issued for the remainder of the state, suggesting the possibility of isolated heavy rainfall.

• Recent Rainfall Records: In the latest measurement, Kudulu in Kasaragod district recorded the highest rainfall at 13 cm in a 24-hour period. This was followed by Muliyar and Bayar, also in Kasaragod, each reporting 11 cm.

Overall, the strengthening of the southwest monsoon and the current weather conditions are poised to alleviate previous rainfall shortfalls in Kerala, albeit with heightened awareness for potential flooding in certain districts due to soil saturation and heavy rain alerts.

Key Points:

• Strengthening southwest monsoon across Kerala after a lull.
• Active offshore trough from Gujarat to south Kerala enhancing rainfall.
• Interlinked weather systems contributing to increased rainfall.
• Northern and central Kerala to receive heavy rains; southern districts may see lighter precipitation.
• Concern for soil saturation and potential flooding.
• Orange and yellow alerts issued for several districts regarding expected rainfall.
• Recent rainfall figures highlight the accumulative impact on certain areas, especially in Kasaragod.

Published: July 15, 2025, 08:26 PM IST.

The article discusses the urgent proposal by the National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR) in Chennai to construct a seawall along the Uppada coast in Kakinada district, Andhra Pradesh, due to significant coastal erosion. Here are the salient points:

• Proposal for Seawall: The NCCR has proposed a seawall at an estimated cost of ₹323 crore to address the escalating erosion affecting the Uppada coastline, which has been exacerbated by the earlier installation of a geo-tube.

• Erosion Statistics: Since 2020, approximately 1,360 acres of land have been lost at a rate of 1.23 meters per year along the Uppada coast. Particularly, the years 2017-18 saw a maximum erosion of 26.3 meters.

• Background Context: The geo-tube, installed before 2010 to combat erosion, failed to withstand heavy waves and contributed to the displacement of fisherfolk in areas like Nemam, Ameenabad, Subbampeta, and Komaragiri.

• Government Initiatives: The Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, K. Pawan Kalyan, initiated a request for investigation by NCCR, highlighting the urgent need for intervention due to the risks faced by coastal communities.

• Damages to Infrastructure: The Kakinada-Uppada road, vital for access to the Kakinada Special Economic Zone, has also suffered damage as a result of the ongoing erosion.

• Discussion with Authorities: The proposal for the seawall is set to be discussed by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in New Delhi on July 30, 2025, chaired by Govind Mohan, Secretary to the Home Ministry.

• Previous Recommendations: Notably, in 2021, the Central Water and Power Research Station (CWPRS) in Pune had previously recommended the construction of a five-kilometer seawall, utilizing a five-layer geomaterial, with an estimated cost of ₹176 crore.

• Local Representation: Kakinada MP Tangella Uday has publicly emphasized the significance of the NCCR's proposal, indicating the local government's concern and cooperation in addressing erosion.

In essence, the article outlines the critical issues of coastal erosion in Kakinada district, the proposed infrastructural solutions, and the collaborative efforts of government officials and experts to mitigate the adverse effects on the local population and economy. The situation is prompting immediate action and funding discussions to prevent further coastal degradation.

Important Points:

• NCCR proposes seawall at Uppada coast for ₹323 crore.
• Erosion rate is 1.23 m/year; 1,360 acres lost since 2020.
• Geo-tube installed in 2010 failed, exacerbating damage.
• Kakinada-Uppada road damaged, affecting economic access.
• Proposal to be discussed by NDMA on July 30, 2025.
• CWPRS previously recommended a five-km seawall for ₹176 crore.
• Local MP emphasizes the urgency of the situation and the need for government action.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has levied a fine of ₹23.7 crore on authorities in Uttar Pradesh due to illegal sewage discharge and waste dumping in a designated green belt area in Loni, Ghaziabad. The fine includes ₹2.25 crore imposed on the Nagar Palika Parishad, and ₹21.52 crore on the Uttar Pradesh Jal Nigam as environmental compensation.

Key Points:

• Date of Judgment: July 11, 2025
• Total Fine: ₹23.7 crore
• Nagar Palika Parishad Fine: ₹2.25 crore
• Uttar Pradesh Jal Nigam Fine: ₹21.52 crore
• Location of Violations: Ansal East End, Loni (Ghaziabad)
• Applicant: Residents alleging hazardous waste dumping under the authority of the Nagar Palika's Executive Officer.

Findings and Directives:

• Inspection Outcome: A joint inspection by various government agencies confirmed environmental infractions including significant groundwater contamination.
• Environmental Compensation:
  • Nagar Palika Parishad: To pay ₹2.25 crore for violations from July 1, 2020, to March 31, 2024. Payment to be made to the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) within three months.
  • U.P. Jal Nigam: To remit ₹21.52 crore for violations spanning January 20, 2024, to November 13, 2024, with similar payment directives as the Nagar Palika.
• Future Violations: The tribunal instructed that any further infractions should be assessed and recovered after a fair hearing.

Environmental Remediation:

• The compensation amounts must be allocated for environmental restoration efforts as outlined in an environmental rejuvenation plan. This plan is required to be created by a joint committee within three months, with implementation expected within six months of payment recovery.
• A compliance report for the execution of the plan must be submitted within 30 days.

Condition of Sewage Treatment:

• The NGT observed that the sewage treatment infrastructure in Nagar Palika Parishad, Loni, was severely deficient, indicating that only about 30% of total sewage is being treated by the available 30 MLD Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), and this service is limited to only 15 out of 55 wards.

Judicial Composition:

• The tribunal's order was presided over by judicial members Justice Sudhir Agarwal and Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi, along with expert member Afroz Ahmad.

The ruling by the NGT underscores significant governance and environmental challenges within local authorities in Uttar Pradesh, particularly in managing municipal waste, and emphasizes the need for effective measures in environmental protection and public health.

Summary of Urban River Management Plan Initiative for Yamuna Revival in Delhi

On October 24, 2023, an Inception Stakeholder Workshop was convened at Bharat Mandapam, organized by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, in cooperation with the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) and the Delhi Government, to jumpstart an Urban River Management Plan (URMP) aimed at the rejuvenation of the Yamuna River in Delhi.

Key Details:

• Participants: The workshop featured prominent figures including Sh. Dharmendra (Chief Secretary of Delhi), Ms. Debashree Mukherjee (Secretary, Ministry of Jal Shakti), Sh. Rajeev Kumar Mital (DG NMCG), and Ms. Marisa Gerards (Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands).
• Objective: The initiative seeks to foster a collaborative and integrated approach for cleaning and rejuvenating the Yamuna, aiming for practical and implementable strategies as set forth by the various government and international agencies involved.

Importance of the URMP:

• Holistic Planning: DG NMCG highlighted the need for the URMP to serve as a dynamic planning tool embedded in scientific and risk-based assessments.
• Stakeholder Responsibility: Sh. Dharmendra emphasized the relationship between the health of Yamuna and enhancement of life in Delhi, calling for urgent actions from various stakeholders to revitalize the river.
• Multi-agency Collaboration: 14 key departments have formed a Multi-Stakeholder Group which aims to establish a shared understanding for developing the URMP.

International Collaboration:

• Netherlands Partnership: The workshop spotlighted the partnership between India and the Netherlands in water management, including establishing a Centre of Excellence on Urban Water Resilience as a joint project in collaboration with IIT Delhi.
• Learning from Global Practices: The World Bank presented lessons learned from Australian urban planning, emphasizing the importance of institutional frameworks and stakeholder involvement, which will be integrated into the URMP.

Structure and Monitoring of URMP:

• Developed by NIUA and IIT Delhi: The URMP will focus on comprehensive approaches such as pollution control, wetland management, encroachments, and water reuse.
• Urban River Management Index: The plan will be continually assessed using this index, tracking progress across ten key domains.

Funding and Project Completion:

• Financial Model: The URMP projects will be financed through governmental resources, viability gaps, and contributions from urban local bodies (ULB).
• Detailed Project Reports (DPRs): The culmination of the workshop will result in actionable projects supported by clear DPRs.

Importance of Public Engagement:

• Interactive sessions during the workshop stressed the necessity of public participation and cross-sectoral cooperation to ensure the success of the URMP.

Concluding Message:

The workshop concluded with a clear commitment from the stakeholders to transform Delhi's relationship with the Yamuna, recognizing its significance not just as a waterbody but as a central component of the urban identity and resilience of the city.

Important Sentences:

• "The workshop marked the formal initiation of an integrated planning approach aimed at cleaning and rejuvenating the Yamuna River."
• "The Urban River Management Plan (URMP) must serve as a dynamic planning and action tool grounded in scientific understanding and stakeholder participation."
• "A healthy Yamuna will lead to a healthy life for the people of Delhi," stated Ms. Mukherjee.
• "Delhi signals its resolve to reclaim the Yamuna—not just as a water body, but as the heart of a resilient and vibrant city."
• "Success of the URMP hinges on broad-based engagement and sustained, cross-sectoral cooperation."

This initiative reflects a decisive move towards comprehensive urban river management with implications for environmental sustainability, public health, and cultural identity for Delhi.

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has released its second Sustainability Report for the fiscal year 2023-24, showcasing its commitment to environmental sustainability and adherence to the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework. The report aims to align with India's environmental objectives and the Mission LiFE initiative, which emphasizes the importance of a sustainable lifestyle.

Key Highlights from NHAI Sustainability Report 2023-24:

• Release and Objective: The Sustainability Report was unveiled by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, reflecting NHAI’s efforts to incorporate sustainable practices in their operations.

• Greenhouse Gas Emissions: NHAI reported a remarkable improvement in its Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Intensity, reducing it from 1.0 MTCO2e/km to 0.8 MTCO2e/km, despite a 20% increase in National Highway construction during FY 2023-24.

• Circular Economy and Material Reuse: The report indicates NHAI's strong focus on promoting a circular economy. In FY 2023-24, it utilized over 631 lakh metric tonnes of recycled materials, including fly-ash, plastic waste, and reclaimed asphalt in highway projects.

• Tree Plantation Initiatives: NHAI has planted over 56 lakh saplings in FY 2023-24 and 67.47 lakh saplings in 2024-25, contributing to over 4.69 crore total saplings planted since 2015, under the Green Highways Policy. This effort has enhanced carbon sinks along highways.

• Water Body Conservation: Under the Amrit Sarovar Mission, NHAI has developed 467 water bodies, which has rejuvenated local water sources and provided approximately 2.4 crore cubic meters of soil for highway construction, leading to savings of around ₹16,690 crore.

• Water Use Reduction: The water use intensity in water-stressed regions reduced by 74% compared to the previous reporting period.

• Eco-friendly Wildlife Management: NHAI has integrated best practices to mitigate wildlife impacts from linear infrastructure, thereby reducing man-animal conflict in project areas.

• Occupational Health and Safety: NHAI's commitment to worker welfare is evident from the report, indicating that 100% of direct and contract workers are covered under the Occupational Health and Safety Management Framework, with zero incidents of workplace discrimination.

• Technological Advancements: NHAI has implemented an AI-powered platform, 'Data Lake 3.0,' which improved project management efficiency and led to the resolution of 155 conciliation claims, saving an estimated ₹25,680 crore.

• FASTag Penetration: A penetration rate of 98.5% of FASTag has been achieved, significantly reducing congestion and vehicle emissions at toll plazas, thereby lowering the overall carbon footprint.

• Sustainable Infrastructure Development: The report emphasizes NHAI's strategic approach to balance rapid infrastructure growth with environmental sustainability, implementing renewable energy practices and effective waste management strategies.

• Availability of Report: The complete report can be accessed on NHAI's official website for detailed insights into its sustainability practices.

This extensive documentation by NHAI aims to provide transparency regarding its sustainable initiatives and sets a roadmap for future actions that align infrastructure development with environmental stewardship.

Important Points:

• Release of the second Sustainability Report by NHAI for FY 2023-24 emphasizing commitment towards environmental sustainability.
• Significant reduction in GHG Emissions Intensity (1.0 MTCO2e/km to 0.8 MTCO2e/km) despite increased highway construction.
• Utilization of 631 lakh metric tonnes of recycled materials in national highway projects.
• Over 4.69 crore saplings planted under the Green Highways Policy since 2015.
• Development of 467 water bodies under the Amrit Sarovar Mission, saving ₹16,690 crore.
• 74% reduction in water use intensity in water-stressed regions.
• Full coverage of OHS for direct and contract workers with no discrimination reported.
• Savings of ₹25,680 crore through AI-driven project management.
• 98.5% penetration of FASTag to reduce vehicular emissions.
• Aiming to balance fast infrastructure growth with eco-friendly practices.

The survey conducted in Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve has resulted in the identification of 43 grassland bird species, marking a significant milestone in the conservation of avian biodiversity in India's Brahmaputra floodplains.

Key Highlights:

• Survey Duration and Team: The survey took place from March 18 to May 25, 2025, and involved a collaboration of forest officials, ornithologists, scientists, and conservationists.

• Bird Species Identified:

  • A total of 43 grassland bird species were documented across Kaziranga’s wildlife divisions.
  • Notable findings include:
    • Critically Endangered: Bengal florican
    • Endangered: Finn’s weaver, swamp grass babbler
    • Vulnerable Species: Black-breasted parrotbill, marsh babbler, swamp francolin, Jerdon’s babbler, slender-billed babbler, bristled grassbird.

• Successful Breeding: The Finn’s weaver, also known locally as tukura chorai, is successfully breeding, indicating the health of the grassland ecosystem. This bird is recognized for its intricate nesting abilities.

• Significant Area: Kaziranga National Park spans 1,174 square kilometers, comprising a mixture of grasslands, forests, and wetlands. This diversity contributes to its status as a critical habitat for various avian species.

• Research Methodology: For the first time, passive acoustic recorders were used for non-invasive, continuous monitoring of bird species, particularly those that are elusive. This technology greatly enhanced the accuracy of species detection.

• Importance of Findings:

  • The study revealed critical grassland habitats within Kaziranga that support populations of threatened and endemic bird species.
  • Additionally, the findings allow for comparisons of grassland bird diversity in Kaziranga with that of dry grasslands in other Indian states like Gujarat and Rajasthan.

• Director's Insights: Sonali Ghosh, director of Kaziranga National Park, noted the lack of prior surveys on wet grasslands in India, enhancing the importance of this study.

• Conclusion: The report was made public on July 14, 2025, emphasizing the need for ongoing conservation efforts for grassland-dependent bird species in the context of rapid environmental changes and habitat loss.

This survey not only documents existing bird populations but also contributes to broader conservation strategies aimed at protecting diverse habitats within the park, aligning with national biodiversity agendas and sustainable development goals.

Summary:

On July 15, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his commendation for India's dedication to establishing a green and sustainable future. His remarks were in response to a post by Union Minister Pralhad Joshi on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter).

The Prime Minister's statement reinforces the ongoing initiatives and policies that aim to enhance environmental sustainability and combat climate change in India. This aligns with India's broader commitments under various international frameworks, including the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which emphasize sustainable practices and environmental protection.

Key Highlights:

• Date of the Statement: July 15, 2025.
• Prime Minister: Narendra Modi.
• Platform: Made in response to a post on X by Union Minister Pralhad Joshi.
• Focus on Sustainability: The statement reiterates India's efforts towards building a green and sustainable future.
• International Commitments: The emphasis on a sustainable future aligns with India's commitments under the Paris Agreement which aims to limit global warming, and the SDGs which pursue a sustainable path towards development.

By highlighting India's continuing initiatives toward sustainability, the Prime Minister's comments reflect a policy direction that prioritizes environmental consciousness alongside economic development. The steady commitment can be viewed in the context of various government schemes aimed at renewable energy, forest conservation, and pollution reduction, which are critical to addressing the challenges posed by climate change.

Important Points:

• PM Narendra Modi praises India's commitment to sustainability.
• His remarks are in response to a Union Minister's post on X.
• The statement aligns with India's international obligations on climate action.
• Reinforces ongoing government initiatives towards green policies.
• Highlights the importance of environmental sustainability in national development.