Current Affairs - National

The Nilgiri Tahr was designated as an endangered species and protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act in 1972. This legal protection signifies the recognition of the species' threatened status and the need for conservation efforts to safeguard its survival.

The Shompen Tribes from Great Nicobar Island participated in voting for the first time. As a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), they reside in dense tropical rainforests and belong to the Mongoloid group. Their participation in the electoral process marks a significant step in their engagement with mainstream society, highlighting efforts towards inclusion and empowerment of tribal communities.

The Chipko Movement, a significant environmental movement, started in Uttarakhand in 1973. It was a response to rampant deforestation and commercial activities threatening the region's forests. The movement gained attention for its non-violent methods, including tree-hugging, to protect natural resources and raise awareness about ecological conservation.

Adani's Vizhinjam Port in Kerala has received approval from the Indian government to operate as the country's first transhipment hub. This designation is significant for India's maritime sector as it enables the transfer of cargo from large vessels to smaller ones, reducing reliance on foreign ports for transhipment activities.

India's first multi-purpose green hydrogen pilot project was inaugurated at the Nathpa Jhakri Hydro Power Station in Himachal Pradesh. Spearheaded by SJVN, the project aims to produce green hydrogen using renewable energy sources, marking a significant advancement in India's renewable energy sector and supporting the National Green Hydrogen Mission's objectives.