Current Affairs - Environment

The Chipko Movement began in Uttarakhand in 1973 as a grassroots environmental movement. It was inspired by the need to protect trees from commercial logging and the adverse effects of deforestation, particularly after the 1963 China border conflict led to increased development and logging activities in the region. The movement gained momentum due to concerns about floods, landslides, and the loss of natural resources affecting local communities.

Bihar has launched a well-designed Low-Carbon Action Plan (LCAP) to enhance its waste management profile. This strategic framework aims to reduce Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and improve sustainable practices in waste and domestic wastewater management, ultimately working towards carbon neutrality by 2070.

Begusarai, a city in Bihar, was ranked as the most polluted city globally in the World Air Quality Report 2023 by IQAir. This report highlighted that out of the top 100 most polluted places worldwide, 83 were from India, with Begusarai leading the list. The high pollution levels in India, particularly in cities like Begusarai, underscore the urgent need for effective measures to address air quality issues.

India's largest Solar and Battery Energy Storage Systems project completed by Tata Power Solar Systems Limited is located in Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh. This project, comprising a 100 MW Solar PV Project and a 120 MW utility-scale battery Energy Storage System, significantly contributes to India's renewable energy goals.

The 'Dilli Gramodaya Abhiyan' initiative, aimed at enhancing infrastructure and living standards, saw the inauguration of PNG facilities in 41 villages and development projects in 178 villages within Delhi. This highlights the focus on improving both rural and urban areas of the city.