CURRENT AFFAIRS

Biodiversity hotspots are biogeographic regions that are characterized by: Extraordinary richness of flora and fauna, especially a high number of endemic species, and Severe loss of natural habitat due to intense human activities. Because of this combination of high biodiversity and high threat, these regions are considered ecologically fragile and top priorities for conservation.

The Supreme Court of India recently delivered a landmark judgment to strengthen conservation of the Great Indian Bustard (GIB) by addressing bird fatalities caused by collisions with overhead power lines linked to renewable energy projects. Acting on expert committee recommendations, the Court demarcated priority conservation areas and laid down mechanisms to manage or reroute power lines in these zones.

Recently, India notified the Greenhouse Gas Emission Intensity (GEI) Target Rules, 2025, taking a significant step towards fulfilling its commitments to the Paris Agreement. These rules are the country's first legally binding emission reduction orders for industrial sectors.

Recent soil tests in the Kuttanad paddy fields of Kerala—part of the Kuttanad Wetland Agricultural System—have revealed elevated aluminium concentrations, raising concerns over soil health, crop productivity, and the long-term sustainability of this globally recognised farming system.

Scientists have identified a genetic mechanism that could help develop new treatment options for the mysterious and highly lethal Candida auris fungus.

Recent scientific studies have highlighted that the Southern Ocean absorbs a significant share of carbon dioxide released by human activities, thereby mitigating global surface warming and playing a crucial role in regulating Earth’s climate system.

Armenia has unveiled its new logo for the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP 17). The logo features the Erivan Anomalus Blue butterfly as its main attraction.

The Supreme Court has settled a uniform definition of the Aravalli hills and ranges, paused fresh mining leases across Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat, and issued comprehensive directions for sustainable mining and ecological restoration of the region.

Air pollution in India is no longer a seasonal phenomenon confined to the northern plains; it has become a persistent and widespread national public health emergency.

Recently, the Government of India has approved the Atomic Energy Bill, 2025, which has now been renamed the ‘Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill’. It is also being referred to as the SHANTI Bill.