Current Affairs - Environment

October 2 to 8 is the period during which National Wildlife Week is observed annually in India. In 2026, the observance marks its 72nd edition and focuses on wildlife conservation, habitat protection and biodiversity. The theme for 2026 is “Connecting Habitats, Thriving Wildlife,” highlighting the importance of connected habitats for wildlife movement, migration, genetic diversity and long-term conservation. The roots of National Wildlife Week date back to the establishment of the Indian Board for Wildlife in 1952. National Wildlife Week also promotes awareness about endangered species, forests, protected areas, poaching prevention and the importance of maintaining ecological balance.

Manesar in Haryana is the location where Maruti Suzuki India commissioned its first 300 kW green hydrogen plant on September 25, 2026. The pilot plant uses surplus solar power generated at the manufacturing facility during holidays to produce green hydrogen through electrolysis. The hydrogen is then blended with natural gas and used as process fuel, helping reduce fossil-fuel consumption in manufacturing. The initiative forms part of the company’s broader green-energy plans, which include investments in compressed biogas, a biogas plant at Kharkhoda, and a battery energy storage system. The project also aligns with India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission.

Arunachal Pradesh is the state where scientists discovered the rare, non-photosynthetic orchid species Gastrodia keyiensis in Keyi Panyor district. The species was formally named after the Keyi River and is locally known as Oram Opuh, meaning Ghost Flower, in the Nyishi dialect. It is a holomycotrophic plant that lacks leaves and chlorophyll and depends entirely on soil fungi for nutrients. The orchid grows up to 35 cm and was found at an altitude of about 1,000 metres. Arunachal Pradesh is also known as the Orchid Paradise of India and is home to around 600 documented orchid species.

New Delhi is hosting the 9th India International Water Week (IIWW) 2026. The event is being held at Bharat Mandapam from September 22 to 26, 2026, under the theme “Climate Resilient Water Management.” The Ministry of Jal Shakti is the lead organiser, in collaboration with other central ministries and state governments. The event includes 10 major forums and focuses on seven key sub-themes, including water governance, innovative financing models and climate-related risks. The Netherlands and Germany are partner countries, while 14 Indian states and six central ministries or departments are participating. A parallel International WASH Conference is also being held.

New Delhi hosted the NGT International Conference on “The Future of Environment and Climate Dynamics,” inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 19, 2026. The two-day conference was organised by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) at Vigyan Bhawan. Judges, environmentalists, government officials, and judicial representatives from 17 countries are participating in the event. Key areas of discussion include climate change and resilience, circular economy, biodiversity and ecosystem services, sustainable energy solutions, environmental justice, and climate governance. The conference aims to promote international cooperation and exchange of judicial, scientific, and governance perspectives for stronger environmental protection and effective environmental policies.