A report by the environmental monitoring network MapBiomas indicates that forest fires in the Brazilian Amazon fell to a historic low in 2025, after peaking the previous year. The burned area nationwide was also the smallest since 2018. This reversal from the critical situation of 2024, when an unprecedented drought and man-made fires engulfed the rainforest, is attributed to a delayed rainy season and reduced deforestation. The report also noted a "psychological factor" among communities in controlling outbreaks. While the Cerrado savanna continued to burn at similar rates, the report warns of a potential "super El Nino" this year, which could increase the risk of forest fires.
- Forest fires in the Brazilian Amazon reached a historic low in 2025, reversing the critical trend of the previous year.
- The reduction is attributed to a delayed rainy season and decreased deforestation.
- Community awareness and efforts also played a role in controlling fire outbreaks.
This editorial discusses the recent Sikkim tunnel disaster, where 15 workers died due to a methane gas explosion, and links it to previous incidents like the Meghalaya coal mine explosion and the Uttarakhand road tunnel collapse. It highlights the inherent perils of underground work in India's difficult terrains, especially in environmentally fragile zones like the Himalayas. The editorial questions whether risks were properly assessed, and if safety protocols like gas detection and ventilation were in place. It calls for a thorough, independent review of whether environmental clearance conditions for such projects are strictly met, emphasizing that these disasters are not isolated misfortunes but systemic issues.
- The Sikkim tunnel disaster, caused by a methane gas explosion, underscores the dangers of infrastructure projects in fragile Himalayan regions.
- Previous incidents like the Meghalaya coal mine explosion and Uttarakhand tunnel collapse highlight systemic risks in underground work.
- The editorial questions the adequacy of risk assessment, gas detection, and ventilation safeguards in such projects.
The death toll in the Sikkim tunnel disaster rose to 15, with rescue operations continuing for the remaining 10 workers. The accident occurred on July 20 at 1:04 p.m. in the under-construction head race tunnel for the Teesta State-VI Hydroelectric Project at Samardung in Namchi district. NHPC reported that 25 personnel were trapped after a sudden release of suspected methane gas caused an explosion. Rescue efforts are challenged by rainfall and accumulation of mud and water inside the tunnel. The NHPC announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹5 lakh to the next of kin of each deceased.
- The death toll from the Sikkim tunnel disaster has reached 15, with rescue operations ongoing for 10 trapped workers.
- The incident occurred at the Teesta State-VI Hydroelectric Project due to an explosion caused by suspected methane gas.
- Rescue operations are hampered by adverse weather conditions and debris inside the tunnel.
Environmentalists and activists have raised concerns that the Supreme Court-appointed committee's online consultation process for the Aravali hills excludes rural communities. They argue that the online mechanism, relying on email or Google forms, is not accessible to non-literate and technology-savvy rural people who are most directly impacted. The committee, formed on May 25, is tasked with reviewing the Centre's report on the definition and delineation of the Aravali hill range and must submit its report by August 31. Activists also criticized the 21-day feedback window as insufficient for meaningful participation from diverse communities.
- Environmentalists criticize the online consultation process of the SC-appointed Aravali panel for excluding rural communities.
- The online mechanism is deemed inaccessible to non-literate and technology-savvy rural populations.
- The committee's mandate is to review the Centre's report on the definition and delineation of the Aravali hill range.
Delhi's new winter pollution management framework, with measures like staggered office timings and construction restrictions, marks a shift towards advance planning. However, the authors argue that AI-powered forecasts are crucial to optimize public health decisions, especially regarding outdoor activities. Historical data shows PM2.5 concentrations are significantly lower in the late afternoon (3-6 pm) compared to morning (9 am-12 pm). AI models, combining weather forecasts, satellite observations, and emissions data, can provide hour-by-hour predictions, transforming air quality bulletins into practical decision-support tools for schools, events, and outdoor workers, thereby reducing exposure effectively.
- Delhi's new winter pollution framework aims for advance planning, but needs AI forecasts for effective implementation.
- PM2.5 concentrations are significantly lower in Delhi during late afternoons compared to mornings.
- AI models can provide hour-by-hour pollution predictions by integrating various data sources.
Large parts of Assam continue to battle severe flooding, with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma describing the water levels in Upper Assam districts as "unprecedented in half a century." The death toll from this year's floods has risen to 11, with over 3.1 lakh people affected and 14,411 hectares of crop areas submerged. Five major rivers, including the Brahmaputra, are flowing above danger levels. Authorities have set up 52 relief camps and evacuated thousands. Landslides were also reported in Guwahati. The Railways has deployed special trains to assist stranded passengers due to track inundation.
- Assam is experiencing severe floods, with water levels in Upper Assam described as unprecedented in 50 years.
- The death toll from the floods has reached 11, affecting over 3.1 lakh people and submerging significant crop areas.
- Several major rivers, including the Brahmaputra, are flowing above danger levels.
The Supreme Court-constituted high-powered committee, led by Kanchan Devi, Director General of ICFRE, has opened a 21-day window for public feedback on issues surrounding the Aravalli Hills. This panel was formed to resolve ambiguities in an October 2025 report and a 100-meter elevation benchmark for defining the Aravallis, which had sparked public debate for potentially excluding over 90% of the hill range from protection. The committee will assess whether "sustainable mining" or "regulated mining" within newly demarcated areas would lead to adverse ecological consequences.
- A Supreme Court-appointed committee is seeking public inputs on the definition and protection of the Aravalli Hills.
- The panel aims to clarify ambiguities from a previous report regarding the 100-meter elevation benchmark for the Aravallis.
- Concerns were raised that the previous definition could leave over 90% of the hill range unprotected from mining and construction.
The article investigates why Kerala, despite being a leading state in rooftop solar adoption, is experiencing power cuts. The core issue is a mismatch between solar energy generation (high during the day) and peak demand (high during the evening, 6-11 pm, primarily from domestic consumers). While solar power is exported to the grid during the day, low consumption leads to voltage increases, risking damage. At night, when solar generation ceases, Kerala's electricity utility must purchase power from the national market at higher prices, leading to shortages and increased costs. The article emphasizes that as renewable energy sources increase, the need for energy storage solutions, like battery energy storage systems, becomes critical to bridge this demand-supply gap and ensure stable power supply.
- Kerala leads in rooftop solar adoption but faces power cuts due to a demand-supply mismatch.
- Peak electricity demand in Kerala occurs in the evening (6-11 pm) from domestic consumers, not during daytime solar generation.
- Excess daytime solar power can cause grid voltage issues if not consumed or stored.
The article draws a comparison between the fasts undertaken by Anna Hazare and Sonam Wangchuk, analyzing their impact on Indian democracy. It highlights Hazare's anti-corruption movement in 2011, which successfully mobilized public opinion and pressured the government, demonstrating the power of civil society. In contrast, Sonam Wangchuk's recent fast for Ladakh's constitutional safeguards, despite garnering significant attention, has not yet achieved similar political traction. The piece explores how the political landscape has changed, with a more centralized and less responsive government, making it harder for protests to yield immediate results. It questions the effectiveness of public pressure in a democracy where the government might be less susceptible to external influence.
- Anna Hazare's 2011 fast successfully leveraged public anger against corruption to influence policy.
- Sonam Wangchuk's fast for Ladakh's constitutional rights highlights the region's environmental and cultural concerns.
- The article suggests a shift in India's political landscape, with reduced government responsiveness to public pressure.
The article analyzes the recent surge in India's Wholesale Price Index (WPI) inflation, which has neared 10%, attributing it primarily to supply shocks and cost-push factors rather than excess demand. It explains that primary commodity prices are demand-determined, while manufactured goods prices are cost-determined, influenced by production costs. The piece highlights that rising global crude oil prices have significantly increased fuel and power costs, subsequently pushing up manufactured inflation. Additionally, adverse monsoons, likely due to the El Niño effect, have caused food price inflation by affecting agricultural production. The authors advocate for decoupling food prices from natural vagaries through irrigation infrastructure investment and suggest a countercyclical indirect tax policy for fuel to cushion price shocks, rather than relying solely on inflation targeting.
- India's recent WPI inflation surge is mainly driven by supply shocks and cost-push factors, not excess demand.
- Manufactured goods inflation is primarily cost-determined, influenced by rising fuel and power costs.
- Food inflation is largely supply-driven, exacerbated by inadequate monsoons and the El Niño effect.
The article advocates for prioritizing pedestrian rights and public spaces in urban planning, emphasizing that footpaths are fundamental for a healthy, active, and equitable city. It highlights that walking is a basic human right and a crucial component of public health, yet often neglected in urban design, leading to increased sedentary lifestyles and health issues. The piece criticizes the car-centric approach to city development, which encroaches on pedestrian infrastructure and public amenities. It calls for a policy shift towards creating safe, accessible, and continuous footpaths, along with green spaces, to encourage walking and cycling, thereby fostering healthier communities and reducing reliance on private vehicles.
- Footpaths are essential for public health, promoting physical activity and reducing non-communicable diseases.
- Current urban planning often prioritizes cars over pedestrians, leading to inadequate and unsafe footpaths.
- A policy shift is needed to ensure continuous, accessible, and well-maintained footpaths as a fundamental right.
A recent study involving over 12,000 Indians has found a significant link between long-term exposure to air pollution and kidney damage. The study, published in the journal Kidney International, indicates that even moderate levels of particulate matter (PM2.5) can lead to a decline in kidney function over time. This silent damage poses a serious public health threat, especially in India where air pollution levels are high. The findings underscore the urgent need for stricter air quality regulations and public health interventions to mitigate the adverse effects of pollution on kidney health and overall well-being.
- A study of over 12,000 Indians links long-term air pollution exposure to kidney damage.
- Even moderate levels of PM2.5 can lead to a decline in kidney function over time.
- This silent damage from air pollution poses a significant public health threat in India.
A deficient monsoon, particularly in June, is expected to significantly impact India's agricultural sector, leading to increased agri import bills. Below-normal rainfall has affected kharif sowing, especially for pulses, oilseeds, and cotton. This could necessitate higher imports of these commodities to meet domestic demand, putting pressure on the trade balance and potentially fueling inflation. While the monsoon is expected to improve in July, the initial deficit has already created challenges for farmers and could lead to reduced crop yields, underscoring the vulnerability of Indian agriculture to climate variability and the need for robust irrigation and crop diversification strategies.
- A deficient monsoon in June is expected to increase India's agricultural import bill.
- Below-normal rainfall has adversely affected kharif sowing, particularly for pulses, oilseeds, and cotton.
- Higher imports of these commodities could strain India's trade balance and contribute to inflation.
Antarctica faces increasing challenges from climate change, necessitating the creation of strategic reserves of food, fuel, and other essential supplies. The melting ice and changing weather patterns disrupt supply chains, making resupply missions more difficult and unpredictable. The continent's reliance on fossil fuels for transport and heating also needs to be addressed through sustainable alternatives. The article highlights the need for international cooperation to establish these buffers and develop resilient infrastructure to ensure the safety and operational continuity of research stations. This proactive approach is crucial for sustaining human presence and scientific research in the face of a rapidly changing environment.
- Antarctica's supply chains are increasingly vulnerable to climate change impacts like melting ice and extreme weather.
- Strategic reserves of food, fuel, and other essentials are crucial for the safety and operational continuity of research stations.
- The continent's reliance on fossil fuels needs to transition towards sustainable energy alternatives.
India launched its first hydrogen fuel cell-powered train on July 17, operating on an 89-km stretch between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana. This 10-coach train generates electricity onboard by combining hydrogen from cylinders with oxygen in a proton exchange membrane fuel cell, producing only water vapor and heat as by-products. The system includes two Hydrogen Driving Power Cars (DPCs) providing 2,400 kW power. Safety measures, approved by TÜV SÜD, include continuous leak detection, automatic shut-off systems, and ventilation. India plans to deploy this technology on heritage railways and transition to a national program for hydrogen-powered rolling stock, contributing to the National Green Hydrogen Mission and Net Zero goals.
- India's first hydrogen fuel cell-powered train has been launched, operating on a route in Haryana.
- The train generates electricity onboard using a proton exchange membrane fuel cell, with water vapor as the only direct emission.
- Comprehensive safety features, including leak detection and automatic shut-off, have been implemented and certified by TÜV SÜD.
Researchers have identified a new species of African monkey, Colobus congoensis, or 'Likweli', in Central Africa's Lomami National Park. First photographed in 2008, it has now been confirmed as a unique species through genetic tests and field observations between 2018-2022. The Likweli is characterized by its small size, black fur, a striking orange-cream patch around its mouth, and a white patch under its tail. The authors have proposed classifying this new species as 'endangered' due to its limited habitat and potential threats.
- A new species of African monkey, 'Likweli' (Colobus congoensis), has been discovered in Central Africa.
- The species was confirmed through genetic tests and field observations after its initial sighting in 2008.
- 'Likweli' is identifiable by its small size, black fur, and distinctive orange-cream and white patches.
A study conducted in Raimona National Park, Assam, revealed that certain invasive exotic plant species, often considered undesirable, serve as major nectar sources for a large number of butterfly species. Researchers documented 220 butterfly species and identified 41 nectar plants, including Lantana camara, Chromolaena odorata, and Ziziphus mauritiana, which are aggressive invasive species. These plants provide abundant nectar, especially when native wildflowers are scarce, and their prolonged flowering periods help sustain butterfly populations. The study suggests maintaining small, managed patches of these invasive plants in protected landscapes to ensure continuous nectar supply for butterflies.
- Invasive plant species like Lantana camara and Chromolaena odorata are crucial nectar sources for butterflies in Raimona National Park, Assam.
- These "unwanted" plants provide essential nutrition, especially when native wildflowers are scarce.
- Their prolonged flowering and high nectar availability help sustain butterfly populations.
A study published in the journal 'Conservation' challenges the long-held belief that Asiatic lions outside Gir Protected Area primarily survive on domestic animals. The research, based on 160 lion scat samples from Gujarat's coastal districts, found that wild prey accounted for 64% of the lions' diet and nearly 70% of the biomass consumed. Blue bull (nilgai) was the largest contributor to the lions' diet, followed by wild pigs, while cattle were the main domestic prey. This indicates that healthy populations of nilgai and wild pigs along Gujarat's coastline enable lions to sustain themselves on natural prey, reducing pressure on livestock.
- A study in 'Conservation' journal indicates that coastal Asiatic lions in Gujarat primarily feed on wild prey.
- Wild prey constitutes 64% of the lions' diet and 70% of biomass consumed, challenging previous assumptions.
- Blue bull (nilgai) and wild pigs are the main wild prey species for these lions.
An indefinite hunger strike against the Ken-Betwa Link Project and other irrigation schemes in Madhya Pradesh's Bundelkhand region entered its 15th day. Protesters, primarily tribal women, allege inadequate rehabilitation and grievances related to displacement caused by the projects. The protest is being held on the banks of the Barana river near Kupi village. In addition to the hunger strike, protesters have launched 'jal satyagraha', 'chita satyagraha', and a symbolic 'faansi satyagraha' to highlight their demands and draw attention to the environmental and social impacts of the inter-linking project.
- A hunger strike against the Ken-Betwa Link Project in Bundelkhand, Madhya Pradesh, has reached its 15th day.
- Protesters, mainly tribal women, are demanding adequate rehabilitation and addressing displacement issues.
- The protest includes various forms of satyagraha to draw attention to the project's impacts.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced that Delhi's public transport fleet will be augmented with 2,800 new air-conditioned low-floor electric buses by August 2028 under Phase I of the PM e-Drive Scheme. This initiative will increase the fleet strength to 14,000 by 2028-29. Of the new buses, 1,400 will be 12-metres long, and the remaining 1,400 will be 9-metres long, deployed on narrow roads and rural areas to enhance last-mile connectivity and extend public transport beyond main corridors. The scheme offers financial assistance of ₹35 lakh for 12-metre buses and ₹25 lakh for 9-metre buses, aiming to improve air quality and provide sustainable public transport.
- Delhi will add 2,800 new electric buses to its public transport fleet by August 2028 under the PM e-Drive Scheme.
- The initiative aims to increase the total fleet strength to 14,000 by 2028-29.
- Shorter 9-metre buses will be deployed in rural and narrow areas to improve last-mile connectivity.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma announced that his government would move a resolution in the 60-member Assembly to block uranium mining in the State. This decision comes amidst mounting pressure from local groups, including the Khasi Students' Union (KSU), which launched an anti-uranium mining movement after a Union Minister's comments suggested the Centre was examining the status of uranium mining. The CM clarified that the Centre had made "no decision" on mining and assured that his NPP-led government would not compromise the State's land, water, and future due to radioactive threats.
- Meghalaya CM Conrad K. Sangma committed to moving an Assembly resolution against uranium mining.
- Local groups, led by the Khasi Students' Union (KSU), initiated an anti-uranium mining movement.
- The movement was triggered by comments from a Union Minister about examining uranium mining status in Meghalaya.
Manasbal Lake, Kashmir's deepest freshwater lake, is undergoing ecological recovery, evidenced by the return of migratory birds. Locals are optimistic about the increase in bird sightings between December 2025 and January 2026, prompting the Wullar-Manasbal Development Authority (WMDA) to organize a bird watching festival. Efforts to revive the lake, including removing accumulated weeds and dredging, have improved water circulation and biodiversity. The WMDA is also implementing water budgeting to manage the lake's carrying capacity and water volume scientifically, alongside a three-pronged approach to improve water quality, including a sewerage treatment plant and solid waste management plant.
- Manasbal Lake, the deepest freshwater lake in central Kashmir, is showing signs of ecological recovery.
- The return of migratory birds indicates improved environmental conditions in the lake.
- Weeding and dredging operations have significantly contributed to the lake's rejuvenation and biodiversity.
The Centre has released the third draft of Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE III) norms for passenger vehicles, effective from April 2027. The revised norms will recognize ethanol, compressed biogas (CBG), and other biofuels, allowing manufacturers to claim specified reductions in declared tailpipe carbon dioxide emissions. The draft retains a flatter weight-adjustment curve, which reduces the compliance advantage previously available to heavier SUVs. Fleet-wide emission targets are tightened, with compliance assessed over two blocks (three-year and two-year periods), aiming for progressive improvement in fuel efficiency.
- The third draft of CAFE III norms for passenger vehicles will be effective from April 2027.
- The norms recognize biofuels like ethanol and compressed biogas (CBG) for reducing CO2 emissions.
- A flatter weight-adjustment curve is retained, reducing compliance benefits for heavier SUVs.
China's decades-long 'Three-North Protective Forest Program,' also known as the 'Great Green Wall,' has significantly reduced desertification across northern China. Millions of workers have used techniques like 'straw checkerboards' and irrigation systems to stabilize sand dunes and plant forests. This initiative has increased forest cover from 5% in 1978 to 14% in 2022, transforming vast regions. While measurable progress has been achieved, scientists caution that continuous efforts are necessary to sustain these gains, especially given ongoing challenges from climate change and human activities.
- China's 'Great Green Wall' project has significantly reduced desertification in northern regions.
- The program utilizes techniques like 'straw checkerboards' to stabilize sand dunes and promote plant growth.
- Forest cover in the program area has increased from 5% in 1978 to 14% in 2022.