Why in the News ? European countries are battling widespread wildfires amid one of the hottest and driest summers on record.Extreme heat, prolonged dryness and changing climate conditions are increasing fire risks, threatening lives, ecosystems and infrastructure across the continent. Wildfires Across European Countries ● Belgium: A major wildfire continued to burn in…
Why in the News ? Adivasi communities in Madhya Pradesh are protesting against displacement caused by the Ken-Betwa river-linking project. Villagers argue that monetary compensation cannot replace their forests, land, livelihoods, cultural identity and community life, raising concerns about rehabilitation, tribal rights and environmental costs. Ken-Betwa Project and Its Intended Objectives: ● The…
Why in the News ? The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 has reignited tensions between the Centre and States over taxation of mineral rights. States fear significant revenue losses, while the Centre argues that excessive levies increase mineral costs, fuel inflation and create uncertainty for mining investments. Key Provisions and Centre’s…
Why in the News ? The 12th BRICS Environment Ministers’ Meeting is underway at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, under India’s BRICS Chairship 2026. The meeting aims to strengthen environmental cooperation, facilitate consensus and develop collective responses to climate change, ecological degradation and sustainability challenges. 12th BRICS Environment Ministers’ Meeting: ● The 12th BRICS Environment Ministers’…
Why in the News ? President Droupadi Murmu has given assent to the Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026, formally changing the State’s name from Kerala to Keralam. The legislation follows a unanimous resolution by the Kerala Legislative Assembly and requires consequential constitutional amendments. Background and Process of Renaming: ● The Kerala Legislative…
Why in the News ? Tamil Nadu Assembly has urged the Centre to retain the existing 543 Lok Sabha seats and their State-wise distribution. The debate has intensified over whether future delimitation should prioritise population-based representation or protect India’s federal balance and States’ political weight. Delimitation and the Democratic Principle: ● Delimitation refers…
Why in the News ? A National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM) assessment has found no measurable ecological or socio-economic damage to Lakshadweep following the sinking of MSC Elsa 3 off Kerala in May 2025. However, the incident highlights island ecosystems’ vulnerability to maritime accidents. Study Findings on Lakshadweep: ● The container…
Why in the News ? Hara mangrove forests around Iran’s Qeshm Island face a serious ecological threat after a major oil spill spread along the southern coast. The pollution could damage mangrove ecosystems, marine biodiversity, fisheries and coastal livelihoods, while the ongoing regional conflict complicates cleanup operations. Hara Mangroves — Ecological Significance ● …
Why in the News ? The Madhya Pradesh government and ASI are renewing efforts to excavate and restore Vaishya Tekri in Ujjain after nearly 90 years. The ancient mound may contain a Mauryan-era stupa larger than Sanchi, prompting renewed archaeological and historical interest. Vaishya Tekri: A Major Mauryan-Era Monument ● Vaishya Tekri, located…
Why in the News ? The Indian Army has departed for Thailand to participate in the 15th India-Thailand Joint Military Exercise MAITREE-XV (2026). The exercise focuses on enhancing joint counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism capabilities, interoperability and operational cooperation in jungle and semi-urban environments. MAITREE-XV: Key Features and Objectives ● Exercise MAITREE-XV (2026) is the…