Current Affairs - Environment

The first photographic evidence of Pallas’s cat in India was captured in Himachal Pradesh, specifically during a snow leopard survey in the Kinnaur area. This discovery marks a significant contribution to the understanding of the distribution of this rare and elusive feline species. Pallas's cats are native to Central Asia and are typically found in high-altitude, rocky habitats. The images captured in Himachal Pradesh extend their known range, emphasizing the importance of the region's rich biodiversity and the need for conservation efforts to protect these species and their habitats.

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, has been identified as the world’s most polluted city, with PM2.5 levels soaring to 266 µg/m³. Major contributors to this alarming pollution include heavy traffic, industrial emissions, and trash burning. The poor air quality has caused health issues such as respiratory problems and reduced visibility. In response, the government is promoting electric vehicles and setting ambitious targets for EV adoption by 2030. Climate experts also highlight unfavourable weather conditions that trap pollutants, exacerbating the situation. This crisis underscores the urgent need for sustainable solutions to combat air pollution in Hanoi.

In 2024, the total annual groundwater recharge increased by 15 BCM, reaching a total of 446 BCM. This improvement reflects sustainable groundwater management efforts, as groundwater extraction also decreased by 3 BCM. Over 73% of assessment units were categorized as "Safe," indicating significant progress in groundwater conservation and recharge practices. Such advancements are critical to addressing water scarcity challenges and ensuring sustainable water usage.

India's renewable energy capacity surpassed 200 GW in 2024, marking a significant milestone in the country's journey towards sustainable energy. This achievement represents a 14% year-on-year increase, indicating substantial growth in the sector. The growth can be attributed to various initiatives and policies aimed at promoting renewable energy sources, such as solar and green hydrogen, and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. This progress aligns with India's Panchamrit goals, which emphasize the importance of sustainable energy in the country's development.

NTPC Renewable Energy Ltd (NTPC REL) started the commercial supply of electricity from a 37.50 MW segment of its 200 MW Solar PV Project in Sadla, Gujarat. This milestone aligns with NTPC Group's commitment to expanding renewable energy, contributing to their overall installed capacity of 76,598.18 MW. The initiative reflects NTPC's strategic focus on sustainability, aiming for 50% non-fossil fuel generation and achieving a 60 GW renewable energy capacity by 2032, thereby enhancing India's clean energy footprint.