Thiruvananthapuram, June 9 (SocialNews.XYZ) For millions of Keralites, the monsoon season may bring the familiar rains, but it could also bring a sharp rise in the price of one of the state’s most loved food items -- fish.

With the annual 52-day trawling ban coming into force from midnight on June 9, fish availability is expected to decline, pushing up prices in markets across Kerala.

The ban, which will continue until July 31, requires mechanised trawlers and deep-sea fishing vessels to remain off the waters during the monsoon breeding season.

The restriction is aimed at protecting marine resources, especially during the spawning period of commercially important species such as oil sardines.

The fishing ban, implemented every year along Kerala’s coastline, is expected to reduce the supply of popular varieties as large mechanised vessels stay anchored.

Traditional fishing boats, however, will be allowed to operate, offering some relief to consumers.

Ahead of the ban, the Fisheries Department has issued guidelines to ensure compliance.

Boats from other states have been directed to leave Kerala waters, while Marine Enforcement officials and Coastal Police will intensify patrols to prevent violations.

Fuel outlets and diesel facilities at major fishing harbours have also been closed to discourage unauthorised fishing.

The government has announced free rations and financial assistance for registered fishermen and allied workers during the lean period.

Authorities have also instructed fishermen venturing out in traditional crafts to carry safety equipment and necessary documents.

However, mechanised boat operators have raised concerns over the impact of the ban on their livelihoods.

The All Kerala Fishing Boat Operators Association has demanded a complete fishing restriction during the period, alleging that boats from neighbouring states could enter Kerala waters after their own ban ends on June 15.

Operators say declining fish availability and rising fuel costs have already affected their earnings, and the 52-day ban could worsen their financial difficulties.

As the trawlers return to shore, Kerala’s fish markets are now preparing for a familiar monsoon challenge: fewer catches, higher demand, and a likely pinch on household budgets.

Source: IANS

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Kochi, June 8 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Kerala government is planning to establish a knowledge cluster bringing together research institutions and agencies involved in fisheries to share expertise, research findings and technological innovations, state Fisheries Minister V.E. Abdul Gafoor said on Monday.

Addressing a function organised at the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) here to mark World Ocean Day, the minister said the proposed cluster would help institutions work together to tackle emerging challenges in the fisheries sector and develop sustainable solutions.

The initiative assumes significance as the sector faces growing pressures from climate change, changing weather patterns, and declining availability of several fish species that were once abundant.

The minister said climate change and associated environmental changes had become serious threats to fisheries resources, making scientific intervention and coordinated action essential.

"The fisheries sector is facing several challenges, including climate change and pressure on fishery resources. Many species that were once commonly available are now showing a decline," he said.

The Fisheries Department will take the lead in coordinating efforts among research bodies and other stakeholders to strengthen scientific support, policy interventions and sustainable fisheries management, he added.

CMFRI Director Dr Grinson George presided over the World Ocean Day programme.

Abdul Gafoor also released the latest CMFRI publications during the event.

Earlier, the minister reviewed the preliminary proposal for the development of Munambam Fisheries Harbour at a stakeholder consultation held at the CMFRI.

The proposed Rs 200-crore project aims to transform the harbour with modern infrastructure and facilities to ensure that fishery products meet international export standards.

The meeting decided to prepare a harbour layout modelled on Kochi Harbour, incorporating 12-metre-wide roads and multi-level parking facilities for heavy vehicles.

The plan also includes features of a Green Smart Harbour, with environmentally sustainable infrastructure, advanced waste management systems and energy-efficient facilities.

A signal station to improve navigational safety and harbour operations has also been proposed.

The meeting decided to prepare a 3D model of the project within a month to facilitate funding support under central schemes, including the PMMSY and Sagarmala.

A further review meeting will be held within a month to take the project forward.

Source: IANS

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Thiruvananthapuram, June 8 (SocialNews.XYZ) BJP state president and MLA Rajeev Chandrasekhar on Monday accused successive LDF and UDF governments of failing to address the growing threat of human-wildlife conflict in Kerala, alleging that people in the state’s hilly regions are being left to face repeated attacks without adequate protection.

Chandrasekhar said five people had lost their lives in wildlife attacks in Kerala in the past two weeks alone, but the government had failed to take effective preventive measures.

He alleged that the concerned department had displayed criminal negligence despite the increasing threat to human life.

Referring to the death of Mariyammal at Suryanelli in Idukki, who was killed in a wild elephant attack while taking her son to school, the BJP leader said the incident reflected the fear and insecurity faced by people living near forest fringes.

The child injured in the attack continues to undergo treatment.

“People are now unable to live without fear even in their own villages,” he said.

Chandrasekhar cited government records to highlight the scale of the crisis, claiming that wildlife attacks between 2016 and 2025 had resulted in 1,128 deaths and 8,480 injuries across Kerala.

He said attacks by elephants, tigers and wild boars alone accounted for 260 fatalities during the period.

Elephant attacks between 2020 and 2025 had claimed 102 lives, while 344 deaths were reported from wildlife attacks between 2021 and 2025, he added.

He said the Centre had provided states with financial assistance and wider powers to tackle human-animal conflict through measures such as solar fencing, barriers, rapid response teams, monitoring of vulnerable areas and management of elephant movement corridors.

However, Chandrasekhar alleged that Kerala had failed to properly utilise the available funds and legal provisions to protect people.

He also criticised delays in providing compensation to victims and their families.

Accusing both the LDF and UDF of adopting similar approaches, he said the UDF had failed to act despite raising the issue while in opposition, while the LDF’s decade-long rule had not produced a permanent solution.

He demanded the immediate use of modern technology, including drones, AI-based surveillance and real-time warning systems, to prevent wildlife from entering human settlements.

“Protecting the lives and property of citizens is the government’s primary responsibility,” he said.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, June 7 (SocialNews.XYZ) Union Minister of State (MoS) for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Kirti Vardhan Singh on Sunday launched the "NZP Saathi App", a smart digital guide, at Delhi zoo.

He also inaugurated self-ticketing kiosks at the National Zoological Park (NZP) in New Delhi, aimed at enhancing visitor experience through smart navigation and easing online ticket booking, a statement said.

The MoS visited an exhibition showcasing creative works prepared by students who participated in the recently concluded Summer Vacation Programme 2026.

He appreciated the creativity of the young participants and commended the zoo authorities for organising educational and awareness programmes that foster a deeper understanding of wildlife conservation among students.

Kirti Vardhan Singh formally launched the "NZP Saathi App" and inaugurated the Self-ticketing Kiosks, marking a significant step towards visitor convenience and digital transformation at the National Zoological Park.

The "NZP Saathi App", available on both Android and iOS platforms, features an interactive digital map and smart navigation system that enables visitors to locate animal enclosures, washrooms, buggy points, exits and other facilities.

The app also offers thematic tours, including Express Tour, Family Tour, Grand Zoo Tour and personalised "My Tour" options.

The Self-ticketing Kiosks will facilitate online ticket booking through UPI-based digital payments with free Wi-Fi connectivity for on-the-spot ticket booking.

Following the inauguration, MoS Singh held a meeting with officials and section in-charges to review ongoing initiatives and discuss strategies for the overall enhancement, modernisation and efficient management of the National Zoological Park.

Kirti Vardhan Singh also inspected the bird houses and reviewed the summer management arrangements for the avian collection.

He assessed the enclosure conditions and offered suggestions for further improving animal welfare and habitat management.

During his visit to the Veterinary Hospital, Kirti Vardhan Singh observed the care being provided to in-house sick animals and held detailed discussions with zoo veterinarians and animal health staff regarding healthcare and management practices.

Later, the MoS visited the lion enclosure and observed the Asiatic lions -- Kartik and Karani.

He expressed satisfaction with their upkeep and the overall management of the enclosure.

Source: IANS

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Guwahati, June 6 (SocialNews.XYZ) In another milestone for wildlife conservation, the latest bird survey in Assam's Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve (KNPTR) has recorded 30 species of raptors with 217 individual birds and six species of storks with 266 individual birds, officials said on Saturday.

The survey highlights Kaziranga's rich avian biodiversity and reinforces the protected area's significance as a vital habitat for several species of birds, including birds of prey and wetland-dependent storks.

KNPTR Director Sonali Ghosh said that, in a significant step towards science-based wildlife management, the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve authority, in collaboration with research scholars from different universities in Assam, conducted a comprehensive stork and raptor survey during February-March this year.

The survey report was released on World Environment Day on Friday.

“The survey recorded a total of 30 species of raptors with 217 individual birds and six species of storks with 266 individual birds,” Ghosh said. She said that the rapid survey was conducted by a team of 10 expert enumerators between the last week of February and the first week of March 2026, across all administrative ranges under the Eastern Assam Wildlife Division of KNPTR. Nesting locations identified during the current year were also included in the overall analysis.

The official said that the national park supports a wide variety of diurnal and nocturnal raptors, including eagles, falcons, vultures, buzzards and owls. Its vast network of wetlands is also home to numerous resident and migratory stork species. A total of 112 species of raptors have been recorded in India, of which nearly 50 species are found in Kaziranga National Park and its adjoining landscape.

Assam’s rich wetlands and the foothills of the Himalayas provide critical habitats for these birds of prey.

“Globally, there are 20 species of storks, primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions. About 50 per cent of them, or eight species, have been recorded in India. All these eight species are also found in Assam and the Kaziranga landscape. The region’s vast network of wetlands and tall trees provides them with safe nesting and feeding grounds,” the KNPTR Director noted.

The latest survey conducted across Kaziranga Tiger Reserve revealed a remarkable diversity of raptors and storks spread across its three administrative divisions. Kaziranga National Park recorded the highest diversity with 21 species of raptors and five species of storks, followed by Biswanath Wildlife Division with 20 species of raptors and six species of storks. Nagaon Wildlife Division recorded 14 species of raptors and five species of storks.

According to the senior Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer, among the stork species, the Asian Openbill was the most abundant, with 92 individual records across all divisions, while the Greater Adjutant was the rarest, with only three individual sightings. Among the raptors, the Himalayan Griffon Vulture was the most commonly sighted bird of prey, with 69 individual records. The Booted Eagle and White-tailed Eagle were the rarest species, with only one sighting each.

Kaziranga’s landscape also serves as a vital stronghold for the globally threatened Pallas’s Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus leucoryphus).

In a remarkable example of international wildlife research, the Wildlife Science and Conservation Centre of Mongolia confirmed that a male Pallas’s Fish Eagle named ‘Ider’ was tagged at Buuntsagaan Lake in central-western Mongolia on August 21, 2020. Since then, the bird has returned to Kaziranga National Park every year for breeding, changing its nesting location only once, the official said.

She added that during the non-breeding season, from June to September, the bird consistently returns to Buuntsagaan Lake in Mongolia.

A survey conducted by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) in January 2020 reported 10 active nests of Pallas’s Fish Eagle in Kaziranga, making it the protected area with the highest number of known breeding sites for the species anywhere in the world. These findings underline Kaziranga’s global importance for the conservation of the species and highlight priority areas for action, including protection of nesting and floodplain habitats, mitigation of powerline electrocution, continued telemetry monitoring, and strengthened international collaboration to secure the species’ remaining populations, Ghosh said.

The findings, she said, would contribute significantly to ongoing efforts to protect threatened raptor and stork species and further enhance conservation management across the park’s diverse habitats. Most of these species are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which provides them the highest degree of legal protection in India.

The latest survey underscores the importance of preserving Kaziranga’s unique and diverse landscape and highlights the critical ecological role played by raptors and storks in maintaining the health and balance of the ecosystem, the KNPTR Director said.

Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, India's seventh UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the famed ‘Big Five’ wildlife species.

According to the latest estimates, the park shelters 2,613 greater one-horned rhinoceroses (2022 census), 104 Bengal tigers (2022), 1,228 Asian elephants (2024), 2,565 wild water buffaloes (2022), and 1,129 eastern swamp deer (2022).

The KNPTR spread across several districts of Assam, including Golaghat, Nagaon, Sonitpur, and Biswanath.

(Sujit Chakraborty can be contacted at sujitchakrabortyne@gmail.com)

Source: IANS

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Coimbatore, June 6 (SocialNews.XYZ) Anticipating a rise in human-wildlife interactions with the onset of the southwest monsoon, the Gudalur Forest Division in Tamil Nadu has intensified surveillance and conflict-prevention measures across vulnerable villages in the Nilgiris district.

The Forest Department has deployed local youths, additional patrol vehicles and thermal drones in areas that frequently witness wildlife intrusion during the rainy season. The move is aimed at preventing wild elephants and other animals from entering human habitations, a recurring challenge in the hill region during the monsoon months.

As part of the initiative, 40 youths from villages prone to human-wildlife conflict have been engaged to assist forest personnel in monitoring elephant movements and alerting local communities. The youths are helping officials track animal movement and take preventive steps to stop elephants from straying into residential areas.

To strengthen field operations, three additional patrol vehicles have been brought from Mudumalai to support elephant-driving activities and emergency response efforts in conflict-prone zones.

Forest officials believe the enhanced mobility will help teams respond more quickly whenever elephants are sighted near settlements. Thermal drones are also being deployed extensively across forest ranges to monitor wildlife movement, particularly during the night and early morning hours when elephant activity is at its peak.

Information gathered through drone surveillance is being used to alert nearby villages whenever elephants or other large animals are detected close to human settlements.

The Forest Department has advised residents living along forest fringes to avoid unnecessary travel during late-night and early-morning hours and to remain vigilant during the monsoon season. The intensified surveillance comes amid continuing concerns over human-wildlife conflict in western Tamil Nadu.

In a recent incident in Erode district, Kalan, a 60-year-old farmer of Ramarana village under the Thalamalai forest range of the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve, lost his life after encountering a wild elephant near his cattle shed late at night.

Forest officials said the man is believed to have come face-to-face with the animal in poor visibility conditions. The elephant reportedly attacked him before moving away from the area. The body was later recovered and sent to the Government Hospital in Sathyamangalam for post-mortem examination.

The incident has once again highlighted the challenges faced by forest-fringe communities and the importance of strengthening monitoring and early-warning systems during the monsoon, when wildlife movement often increases across the region.

Source: IANS

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Chennai, June 6 (SocialNews.XYZ) Tamil Nadu’s conservation initiatives for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr have recorded encouraging gains, with the latest synchronised survey estimating the population of the state animal at 1,364 in 2026.

The figure marks a 4.68 per cent increase from last year’s count of 1,303 and an overall rise of more than 32 per cent compared to 2024, indicating the success of sustained habitat protection and monitoring measures.

The findings of the third synchronised Nilgiri Tahr survey were released by Forests Minister R.V. Ranjithkumar and Environment Minister Dr V.K. Rajeev.

Conducted between April 24 and 27, the survey covered 177 survey blocks across 126 forest beats in 43 forest ranges spanning all 14 Nilgiri Tahr-bearing forest divisions in the state.

The exercise was carried out in coordination with the Kerala Forest Department and involved frontline forest personnel, wildlife scientists and independent observers.

Officials said the large-scale survey provided a comprehensive assessment of the species across its known habitats in the Western Ghats. According to the report, the Anamalai Hills remain the strongest refuge for the Nilgiri Tahr, accounting for 44.87 per cent of the state’s total population. The Nilgiris landscape supported another 29.25 per cent, highlighting the critical role of high-altitude grassland ecosystems in the species’ survival.

The survey recorded Nilgiri Tahr across an elevation range of 270 metres to 2,630 metres above mean sea level. The male-to-female ratio was estimated at 55:100.

Additional Chief Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Forests, Supriya Sahu, said the increase reflected the impact of focused conservation measures implemented under Project Nilgiri Tahr. She noted that the population could have been even higher if not for the forest fires that affected parts of the species’ habitat.

Protecting grasslands and preventing fires would remain vital for ensuring the animals’ long-term survival, she added.

Officials also highlighted the deployment of the Android-based ‘VARUDAI’ mobile application during the survey, allowing real-time transmission of field observations and improving the accuracy of data collection.

The state government simultaneously released findings from its annual synchronised bird surveys, which documented 393 bird species with an estimated population of 6.01 lakh.

The terrestrial bird survey recorded 391 species and around 2.24 lakh birds, while Tamil Nadu’s first comprehensive raptor assessment documented 5,712 sightings of birds of prey.

The Environment Department also launched the country’s first state-level Standard Operating Procedure for Cool Roof Coating Application, an initiative aimed at mitigating rising urban heat and improving climate resilience across Tamil Nadu.

Source: IANS

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Bengaluru, June 5 (SocialNews.XYZ) The wife of senior IPS officer Annalamada Sunil Achaiah, Sandhya Achaiah (51), was killed in a wild elephant attack at her coffee estate in Konanakatte village near Thithimathi in Karnataka's Kodagu district on Friday morning.

Following the incident, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar spoke to the bereaved officer over the phone and expressed his condolences.

According to an official statement, the Chief Minister conveyed deep sorrow over the tragedy and assured the family that the government stood with them in their hour of grief.

He also prayed for strength for Sunil Achaiah and other family members to cope with the loss.

The Chief Minister further said that instructions had been issued to the concerned officials to take necessary measures to prevent human-elephant conflict in the region.

Preliminary reports stated that Sandhya Achaiah was inspecting work at the coffee plantation along with her estate manager and driver when a wild elephant suddenly emerged and charged at the group.

While the accompanying staff managed to escape with minor injuries, Sandhya Achaiah was caught in the attack and sustained severe injuries.

She was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital in Gonikoppal but succumbed to her injuries while being taken for treatment.

She is believed to have died at around 10-10.15 a.m.

Forest Department and police officials visited the spot and carried out an inspection.

A case has been registered in connection with the incident.

Officials noted that the estate is located close to the Nagarhole wildlife sanctuary and emphasised the need for stronger preventive measures, including fencing and improved management systems to prevent wild animals from straying into human-inhabited areas.

Human-elephant conflict in Karnataka continues to be a major conservation and public safety challenge, particularly in districts such as Kodagu, Hassan, Chikkamagaluru and parts of the Mysuru region.

Karnataka, which has one of the largest elephant populations in the country, has implemented measures such as elephant-proof trenches, solar fencing, early warning systems and habitat restoration programmes.

However, fragmentation of forest corridors and increasing human activity in elephant habitats continue to intensify the conflict.

On average, the state has recorded around 50 to 70 human deaths annually in elephant-related incidents over the past few years.

Kodagu, Hassan, Chikkamagaluru and Mysuru districts have consistently reported some of the highest numbers of fatalities linked to such incidents.

Source: IANS

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Thiruvananthapuram, June 5 (SocialNews.XYZ) Kerala Forest Minister Shibu Baby John has said that the Forest Department will take responsibility for the lives and safety of people living in forest areas, and an insurance scheme will be introduced in hilly regions in association with local panchayats.

"The department will be responsible for providing compensation," the minister said.

He added that discussions with public sector insurance companies are progressing for implementing the scheme.

The minister said the Forest Department would move forward by taking farmers into confidence and ensuring cooperation between forest officials and local communities.

The initiatives are part of the state government’s 100-day programme.

As part of the programme, the department plans to extend solar fencing across Kerala from the present 2,000 km to 2,500 km initially and later to 3,000 km.

The move is aimed at reducing human-animal conflicts, particularly in forest fringe areas.

Engineer-turned-politician John also said the department would conduct a detailed study on the increasing tiger population in Wayanad.

He pointed out that a tiger requires around 20 square kilometres of habitat, whereas Wayanad currently has only around four square kilometres available per tiger, leading to frequent tiger-related incidents in the district.

The minister said the number of Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) should be increased, as the present strength is inadequate to effectively respond to wildlife emergencies.

He also announced that the government would set up a state-level consultative committee to address human-wildlife conflict issues.

Action plans will be prepared for the restoration of grasslands and the removal of invasive plant species.

With increasing incidents of wild boar attacks, the department will conduct a special drive on June 15.

A panchayat-wise census of wild boars will also be carried out, and a list of empanelled shooters will be prepared at the local level to deal with the threat.

The Forest Department’s focus would be on balancing wildlife conservation with the concerns of farmers and people living near forests, said John, the son of veteran former state minister Baby John, a seasoned trade union leader and a tall leader in the RSP.

This is his second outing as a state minister.

Source: IANS

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Guwahati, June 5 (SocialNews.XYZ) Two orphaned Asiatic black bear cubs on Friday were successfully released into the wild in Assam's Dehing Patkai National Park after undergoing months of scientific rehabilitation at the Centre for Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation (CWRC) in Kaziranga National Park, marking a first-of-its-kind conservation achievement in the state, officials said on Friday.

The cubs, estimated to be four to six weeks old when rescued from the Dissoi Reserved Forest in Jorhat district on February 26, 2025, were found alone by a local youth and handed over to forest officials.

Subsequent searches failed to locate their mother, prompting authorities to transfer them to the CWRC for specialised care.

Highlighting the achievement on World Environment Day, the Chief Minister's Office posted on social media platform X that the successful release reflected Assam's growing commitment to wildlife conservation under the leadership of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

"After months of dedicated care and rehabilitation at CWRC, two orphaned Asiatic black bear cubs were successfully released into Dehing Patkai National Park, where they now have a second chance to thrive in the wild," the X post said.

Established in 2002, CWRC is a joint initiative of the Assam Forest Department, International Fund for Animal Welfare and Wildlife Trust of India.

The cubs were treated for mild dehydration and hand-reared under the supervision of wildlife veterinarian Bhaskar Choudhury and his team.

Officials said the rehabilitation followed established protocols developed by the Centre for Bear Rehabilitation and Conservation in Arunachal Pradesh, with emphasis on proper nutrition, retention of natural behaviour and minimising human imprinting.

A scientific assessment was conducted to identify a suitable release site.

While Dissoi Reserved Forest was initially considered, its proximity to human settlements and high levels of disturbance made it unsuitable.

Dehing Patkai National Park was selected due to its dense forest cover, abundant food resources and limited human interference.

After approval from the state's Chief Wildlife Warden Vinay Gupta, the cubs were translocated and released by a team of veterinarians, forest personnel and animal keepers.

Officials described the operation as a landmark conservation success, demonstrating how science-based rehabilitation and coordinated efforts can help orphaned wildlife return to their natural habitat.

Source: IANS

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Sidhi (Madhya Pradesh), June 1 (SocialNews.XYZ) An elderly couple was killed after a herd of wild elephants attacked and demolished their mud house in Chingi village of Madhya Pradesh’s Sidhi district during the intervening night of Sunday and Monday, officials said.

The herd surrounded the house and demolished it. The couple died after being trampled by the elephants. The incident created panic in the village. The deceased were identified as Bhaiya Lal Yadav (60) and his wife Tiliya Yadav (58).

According to police, the couple was asleep when the elephants entered the village around midnight. The incident triggered protests by villagers, who blamed administrative negligence and delay in rehabilitation.

Soon after the attack, villagers gathered at the spot in large numbers. They accused the administration of ignoring repeated demands for the relocation of families living near forest areas.

Villagers said several families from Chingi village were earlier shifted under a government rehabilitation scheme. However, around 40 people, including Bhaiya Lal Yadav’s family, allegedly did not receive the benefits of the scheme.

Villagers claimed they had submitted several applications to the administration and the office of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM). They alleged no concrete action was taken despite repeated requests.

According to villagers, the rehabilitation package was earlier fixed at Rs 10 lakh per person. It was later increased to Rs 15 lakh around a year ago. They said many families continued to live in vulnerable areas due to delays in the process.

Speaking to IANS, SDM Shailesh Kumar Dwivedi said he reached the village immediately after receiving information about the attack. "The concerns raised by villagers regarding displacement and rehabilitation will be investigated. Appropriate action will be taken after a detailed inquiry,” Dwivedi told IANS.

The elephant movement in the Sidhi district has increased in recent months. Herds frequently enter villages located near forest fringes. Several incidents of crop damage, house destruction, and attacks on villagers have been reported from the region.

The rising human-elephant conflict has become a major concern for residents living in forest-adjoining areas of the district.

Source: IANS

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Srinagar, June 1 (SocialNews.XYZ) Two persons were arrested by police in Jammu and Kashmir’s Bandipora district in the musk deer killing case, while one accused is still absconding, officials said on Monday.

Officials said that police have arrested two accused in the poaching case, marking a significant development in the investigation into the killing of the endangered animal.

The arrests come days after authorities initiated legal proceedings and issued warrants in connection with the case involving poaching of a musk deer in the Bandipora forest belt.

Wildlife protection department officials had expressed concern at the killings of the endangered musk deer in Bandipora.

Officials said an FIR, numbered 9/2026, under Section 325 BNS and Sections 9, 39 and 51 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, has been registered at Police Station Pethkoot.

The arrested accused have been identified as Noorani Swathi, son of Dilpazeer Swathi, a resident of Kalakote Rajouri, and Akther Ali Swathi, son of Dilpazeer Swathi, also a resident of Kalakote Rajouri.

The third accused has been evading arrest. The latest arrests follow the earlier phase of investigation in which authorities had launched a manhunt and initiated warrant proceedings after evidence linked to the poaching incident surfaced.

Officials said the investigation into the case was continuing and further legal action would follow as authorities pursued all persons allegedly involved in the wildlife crime.

The Kashmir Musk Deer (Moschus cupreus) and the Himalayan Musk Deer are highly endangered species found in Jammu and Kashmir. Protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Act, the animals face severe threats from poaching for their prized scent glands and ongoing habitat loss.

Both species are classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.

Known as ‘Roose Kat’ in the Kashmir Valley, the musk deer is a small antlerless deer.

Males have distinct, fang-like canine tusks. Their habitat includes Alpine scrub, rocky outcrops, and high-altitude coniferous forests (3,000-3,500 meters).

Often rescued or spotted in high-elevation areas like the Ganderbal, Bandipora, and Kishtwar regions. These solitary animals are extremely elusive and occasionally wander into lower valleys during severe winter snowfalls.

When rescued, they are typically rehabilitated in protected sanctuaries like Dachigam National Park.

Source: IANS

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Gandhinagar, May 31 (SocialNews.XYZ) Around 500 Asiatic lions across the Gir landscape have undergone deworming as Gujarat’s Forest Department intensifies disease-control measures following a series of lion deaths linked to a suspected infection, Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia said after visiting affected areas on Sunday.

Modhwadia conducted an on-ground review at the Jamwala Rescue Centre, the Babariya forest area and the Jasadhar Animal Care Centre, where veterinary teams are monitoring lions showing signs of illness.

He said 17 lions are currently under observation at different facilities and that no fresh deaths linked to the infection have been reported during the past three days.

“Teams of doctors are continuously working, and in particular, the deworming process has been completed for around 500 lions,” Modhwadia said.

He added that lions and lion prides in surrounding areas are also being kept under observation as a precautionary measure.

According to the minister, forest officials began preventive measures from May 19, well before the issue formally came to light on May 28.

“Although this incident came to notice on the 28th, they had already started taking the necessary preventive measures from the 19th itself. Because of those preventive measures, we can now say that the situation has been brought almost completely under control,” he said.

Modhwadia said eight lion deaths linked to the suspected illness had been recorded earlier, but no additional deaths had occurred over the last three days.

“As I mentioned, it has not increased in the last three days. Earlier, eight deaths had occurred due to this illness. Other than those eight, no additional deaths have been reported so far,” he said.

The deaths were reported from areas outside the protected Gir sanctuary, particularly in Gir Gadhada of Gir Somnath district and the Babariya region of Amreli district.

Forest authorities have isolated lions within a 10-kilometre radius of the affected locations and launched extensive anti-tick and surveillance operations while awaiting laboratory reports.

Samples collected from affected animals have been sent to the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre for confirmation of the exact cause.

Veterinary experts from Junagadh Veterinary College and specialists from the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) are assisting in the investigation and treatment efforts.

Preliminary assessments have pointed towards babesiosis, a tick-borne parasitic disease that attacks red blood cells and can cause weakness, respiratory distress and severe illness in animals.

Wildlife authorities are also closely monitoring the situation because Gir experienced a major outbreak in 2018 when a combination of Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) and Babesia infection led to significant lion mortality.

Recent reports have raised concerns about a possible recurrence of the same combination, although official laboratory confirmation is still awaited.

Addressing concerns over the situation, Modhwadia said there was currently “no cause for concern” and credited forest officials, veterinarians and field staff for their rapid response.

“Our Forest Department officers and staff possess expertise that can guide not only India but the entire world. In addition, a team from IVRI has also joined to assist us. Their doctors are helping us, and under the present circumstances, there is no reason for concern,” he said.

The minister also praised the efforts of forest personnel working around the clock to protect the species.

"The state government, under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, remains committed to the conservation of Asiatic lions, whose population reached 891 according to the latest state census conducted in 2025. The species survives in the wild only in Gujarat and has expanded beyond Gir into several districts across the Saurashtra region," he noted.

Source: IANS

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Guwahati, May 31 (SocialNews.XYZ) The carcass of a sub-adult tiger was recovered from the Mihimukh area of Assam's Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve (KNPTR), officials said on Sunday.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 31 (SocialNews.XYZ) In the latest episode of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat', Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted a groundbreaking initiative in wildlife conservation -- India's first-ever 'Dolphin Rescue Ambulance'.

Emphasising the importance of preserving aquatic life and encouraging the nation's youth to connect with nature, the Prime Minister shared a heartening conservation success story from Uttar Pradesh that has sparked widespread admiration.

During his address, Prime Minister Modi urged young people to cultivate meaningful hobbies, such as joining astronomy clubs, before pivoting to an inspiring video making waves online.

The video documents a rescue operation where a stranded Ganga River dolphin was extracted from shallow waters, medically treated, and safely released back into the Rapti River.

Commenting on the incident, the Prime Minister remarked, "In a sense, a life returned home once again."

Lauding the specialised vehicle responsible for the operation, the Prime Minister described the Dolphin Rescue Ambulance as a vital asset for countrywide biodiversity.

"Friends, this 'Dolphin Rescue Ambulance' is truly remarkable; it has been designed to function as a mobile hospital. It is equipped with facilities to ensure the dolphin's safety, as well as oxygen support systems -- meaning that if a dolphin is injured, gets trapped in a canal, or becomes cut off from the main river, immediate assistance can be provided," PM Modi said.

The specialised vehicle, launched under the National Mission for Clean Ganga, functions as a mobile intensive care unit to drastically improve survival rates of distressed river dolphins.

By deploying advanced care directly to remote riverbanks, response teams can bypass the historical delays that often proved fatal for these large aquatic mammals.

The Prime Minister pointed out the broader ecological significance of the initiative, reminding listeners of the interconnectedness of our ecosystems.

"When we save the Ganga Dolphin, we are not merely saving a single species; we are preserving the biodiversity of the Ganga," he stated.

The inclusion of this innovative rescue system in Mann Ki Baat has amplified the message of environmental responsibility, positioning the Dolphin Ambulance as a blueprint for modern wildlife preservation.

The Dolphin Rescue video offers a direct look at India's specialised Dolphin Ambulance in action during a dramatic 13-hour rescue mission in Uttar Pradesh.

Source: IANS

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Bhopal/Raipur/Balod, May 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) The continuous and mysterious deaths of bats in the Dalli Rajhara region of Chhattisgarh's Balod district have heightened concerns for both the administration and the Forest Department.

Speaking to media on Saturday, a forest official said that over the past few days reports of large numbers of dead bats being discovered daily have been surfacing.

The deaths of bats are being reported on a specific spot in Dalli-Rajhara.

Given the sensitivity of the situation, the forest department and the veterinary department have jointly initiated an investigation.

Samples have been collected and sent to ICAR-National High Security Animal Disease laboratory in Bhopal to determine the cause of the deaths.

Preliminary assessments suggest extreme heat or a potential infection as possible causes; however, the actual reason will only become clear following the investigation report.

Reports indicate that for the past few days, between 50 and 70 bats have been found dead every day in the Dalli Rajhara region.

This figure continues to rise, prompting the local administration and the forest department to go into alert mode.

Deeming such a large-scale wildlife mortality event as abnormal, authorities are treating the matter with the utmost seriousness.

In light of the situation, senior forest officials issued immediate directives for an investigation and instructed the concerned departments to remain vigilant.

A team from the forest department is continuously monitoring the area, and the affected zones are currently being identified.

While another joint team comprising officials from the forest department and the veterinary department has collected samples from the deceased bats.

These samples have been dispatched to a laboratory in Bhopal for detailed analysis.

The true cause behind the deaths will only be ascertained once the laboratory reports are received.

In their preliminary assessment, officials have cited extreme heat as a potential contributing factor.

The possibility of an infection or disease outbreak has not been ruled out.

However, officials said that it would be premature to draw any definitive conclusions without the findings of a scientific investigation.

The administration has appealed to local residents to refrain from touching any dead or ailing bats they may encounter.

They have urged the public to immediately notify the Forest Department or relevant officials if they observe any such incidents.

Taking these precautions can help mitigate the risk of infection spreading.

Source: IANS

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Thiruvananthapuram, May 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) The death of a 65-year-old man in a wild elephant attack at Athirappilly in Thrissur district early on Saturday has become the third fatality linked to human-wildlife conflict in Kerala this week, intensifying pressure on the government and the Forest Department to address the growing crisis along the state's forest fringes.

Mohanan, 65, a resident of Pullerkattu house at Vaishery in Athirappilly, was killed early on Saturday after coming face-to-face with a wild elephant near his home.

The incident occurred around 2.45 a.m. when Mohanan stepped out after hearing unusual sounds from the vicinity of his residence.

According to local residents, a wild elephant had strayed close to the settlement.

Like many people living near forest boundaries, Mohanan ventured out to check the situation and assess whether the animal had entered the inhabited area.

In the darkness, he reportedly came directly in front of the elephant, which attacked him.

The seriously injured man was rushed to a private hospital in Chalakudy, but doctors were unable to save him.

He succumbed to his injuries shortly after being admitted.

The tragedy has once again highlighted the vulnerability of people living along the Athirappilly-Vazhachal forest belt, where elephant incursions into farms and residential areas have become increasingly common.

Residents say fear has become a constant part of life, with many reluctant to step outside their homes after nightfall.

Mohanan's death has triggered widespread anger in the locality, with residents accusing authorities of failing to effectively maintain protective infrastructure such as solar fences and elephant-proof trenches.

Many of these barriers have reportedly fallen into disrepair, allowing wild elephants easy access to populated areas.

Reacting to the latest incident, Kerala Forest Minister Shibhu Baby John acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and said any such loss of human life was the responsibility of the state Forest Department.

He assured that the department would take all necessary steps in response to the incident and extend support to the affected family.

The latest fatality comes amid growing concern over the rising number of wildlife attacks across Kerala's high-range districts.

Apart from claiming lives, repeated elephant incursions have caused extensive crop losses and property damage, severely affecting the livelihoods of farming communities.

With three deaths already reported this week, calls are mounting for a comprehensive and long-term strategy to tackle Kerala's escalating man-animal conflict before more lives are lost.

Source: IANS

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Jaipur, May 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Friday inaugurated the ‘Neendad-Bainad Biodiversity Project Eco-Trail’ in the Neendad forest area and participated in the state’s ongoing water conservation campaign by performing shramdaan (voluntary labour) at an anicut under the ‘Vande Ganga Water Conservation Public Campaign’.

The Chief Minister said that, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the vision of water self-reliance in Rajasthan is becoming a reality and called upon citizens to actively contribute to the conservation and augmentation of water resources.

During the event, the Chief Minister planted a white sandalwood sapling, installed water pots for birds, and distributed Tulsi saplings to women, highlighting the importance of environmental conservation and biodiversity protection.

He also performed worship of a Peepal tree amid Vedic chanting and offered prayers at a Shiva temple for the prosperity of the state.

Chief Minister Sharma said the Neendad forest region has immense ecological and tourism potential and added that the state government plans to develop it through large-scale afforestation and eco-tourism initiatives.

He further stated that, under the campaign, efforts are underway to construct anicuts and water-harvesting structures at suitable locations to ensure effective rainwater conservation.

Referring to national initiatives, the Chief Minister said the government is also promoting plantation drives inspired by the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, with a target of planting 100 million saplings during the current year.

He added that programmes such as ‘Hariyalo Rajasthan’ and ‘Vande Ganga Jal Sanrakshan’ will strengthen community participation in environmental and water conservation efforts.

The Chief Minister also directed officials to develop eco-friendly public amenities in the Neendad forest area, including a walking track for visitors.

Minister of State for Forests and Environment (Independent Charge) Sanjay Sharma, local public representatives, senior officials, and a large number of citizens were present on the occasion.

Source: IANS

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Gandhinagar, May 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Eight lion cubs in Gujarat’s Gir landscape have died in suspected cases of babesiosis, though no fresh deaths linked to the suspected infection have been reported in the last two days, State Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia said on Friday as authorities intensified surveillance and treatment measures across the region.

The suspected cases have been reported from revenue areas outside the protected Gir sanctuary, particularly in Gir Gadhada taluka and the Babarkot area of Amreli district.

Samples collected from the dead cubs have been sent to the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre, with reports expected within three to four days.

“In the suspected Babesia-related cases, eight cub deaths have come to light. Whether these deaths occurred due to Babesia or some other reason can only be confirmed after the medical report is received,” Modhwadia said.

He said no new incident had been reported in the last two days and described the situation as “under control”.

“Forest department teams have been formed at the site and at other places, and all preventive measures that should be taken are being implemented,” he asserted.

According to the minister, teams from the forest department and veterinarians from Junagadh Veterinary College were deployed immediately after the deaths were reported.

Lions within a 10-kilometre radius of the affected areas have been isolated and are under observation while de-ticking operations are being carried out in Gir and surrounding regions.

Babesiosis is a tick-borne parasitic disease that infects red blood cells and can cause weakness, coughing, nasal discharge and severe anaemia in animals.

Forest department sources said intensified disease-control and treatment measures were initiated following a high-level meeting chaired by Patel.

"The current operations include vaccination, treatment and de-ticking drives aimed at preventing further spread of the suspected infection," officials said.

Modhwadia said other lion deaths reported in recent days were linked to causes such as infighting, old age or unrelated illnesses.

“Deaths due to infighting and old age do occur from time to time,” he said, while reiterating that no fresh suspected Babesia-linked deaths had emerged over the past two days.

The minister added that expert assistance would be sought if required, including from the Union government and wildlife specialists such as those associated with Vantara.

"Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and the Chief Minister’s Office were personally monitoring the situation," he noted.

The suspected outbreak has revived concerns over wildlife disease management in the Gir ecosystem, the world’s only natural habitat of the Asiatic lion.

In 2018, more than 20 lions in the Gir region died following an outbreak linked to canine distemper virus (CVD) and babesiosis.

Officials have intensified round-the-clock surveillance in vulnerable forest ranges and adjoining revenue areas.

The 2025 lion census recorded 891 Asiatic lions in Gujarat, with a significant number now living outside protected forest areas in the Greater Gir landscape.

Source: IANS

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Gandhinagar, May 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) As temperatures continue to rise across Gujarat during the ongoing summer season, the Forest Department has introduced a set of cooling and welfare measures at the Indroda Nature Park in Gandhinagar to reduce heat stress among captive and free-roaming wildlife.

The arrangements, implemented under the guidance of the state Forest and Environment Minister, Arjun Modhwadia, and Minister of State, Pravin Mali, and executed through the Gujarat Ecological Education and Research (GEER) Foundation, have been in place since April and will continue until the arrival of the monsoon.

The measures have been introduced in response to sustained high temperatures and heatwave-like conditions affecting large parts of the state.

The park currently houses more than 600 animals, including three lions, two tigers, three leopards, freshwater crocodiles, porcupines, a variety of reptiles, and several species of birds.

To manage heat conditions within enclosures, the authorities have installed 15 jumbo air coolers in carnivore enclosures and the reptile house.

These systems are operated during peak afternoon hours to help regulate internal temperatures. In addition, 20 high-pressure pop-up sprinklers have been installed across open areas of the park.

These operate between 1 P.M. and 5 P.M., creating continuous evaporative cooling to reduce ambient heat levels.

Traditional cooling methods have also been incorporated, including khus (vetiver) curtains that are regularly moistened with water.

These curtains help convert hot air into cooler airflow as it passes through the enclosures. Agro-net shading structures have also been installed to limit direct exposure to sunlight.

According to park management arrangements, the combined use of mechanical cooling, sprinklers and natural shading has helped reduce temperatures inside animal habitats by around 2 degree Celsius to 4 degree Celsius compared to external conditions, creating a controlled "microclimate" during peak summer hours.

Alongside environmental interventions, veterinary teams have revised the dietary plans of animals in accordance with seasonal requirements.

The daily food intake of carnivorous animals has been reduced by around 500 grams to 1 kilogram to prevent digestive strain during extreme heat.

Herbivorous animals and birds are being provided with water-rich fruits such as watermelon, muskmelon and cucumber to support hydration.

In addition, herbivore feed has been supplemented with vitamin C-based oral rehydration solutions and multi-mineral vitamin mixtures to help maintain electrolyte balance and reduce the risk of heat-related illness.

The park also supports a population of free-roaming wildlife, including Hanuman langurs, nilgai, peacocks and porcupines. To ensure adequate hydration for these animals, multiple water points have been established across the forest area.

These are cleaned and refilled regularly to ensure continuous access to drinking water during the summer.

For health monitoring and emergency care, veterinary services have been made available on a 24-hour basis.

Continuous surveillance is being carried out by zoo staff and veterinary professionals to monitor animal health conditions, particularly during periods of peak heat.

The measures are aimed at ensuring animal welfare and maintaining stable conditions as high summer temperatures persist across the region.

Source: IANS

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Bhubaneswar, May 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Thursday expressed deep concern over the rising incidents of human-elephant conflict in Odisha, alleging that the present state government has failed to protect elephant corridors, conserve forests, and manage wildlife habitats effectively.

Addressing a press conference at the party headquarters here, BJD Senior Vice President Debi Prasad Mishra said incidents of human deaths, crop destruction, and damage to houses caused by elephant attacks have increased alarmingly in the state, especially in districts such as Dhenkanal, Angul, Keonjhar, Sundargarh, Mayurbhanj, and Khordha.

Mishra alleged that unscientific mining activities, large-scale deforestation, and unchecked developmental projects in elephant movement zones have forced elephants to stray into human settlements in search of food and water, thereby endangering human lives and livelihoods.

Citing official figures, he said Odisha’s elephant population stood at 2,103 as per the 2024 elephant census.

However, nearly 185 elephant deaths were reported in the last two years, making Odisha one of the states with the highest elephant mortality rates in the country.

Mishra also added that electrocution, train accidents, poaching, dehydration, shortage of fodder, and acute water scarcity inside forests were among the major reasons behind these deaths.

The BJD leader further claimed that human-elephant conflict in Odisha has reached an alarming level, with 171 human deaths and around 500 injuries reported due to elephant attacks during 2024-25.

He said 523 people have died in wildlife attacks in the last three years, including 443 deaths caused specifically by elephants, while 264 elephant deaths were also recorded during the same period.

Mishra stated that Odisha now records 17 human deaths per 100 elephants, the highest in India.

He also alleged that funds under the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) were not being utilised properly for elephant habitat conservation, conflict mitigation, water management, and fodder development.

Highlighting measures taken during the previous Naveen Patnaik-led BJD government, Mishra said initiatives such as the identification of elephant corridors, the installation of solar fencing, the implementation of elephant-tracking systems, and the enhancement of compensation for affected families had been implemented.

He demanded immediate legal protection for all identified elephant corridors, scientific monitoring and early warning systems in elephant movement zones, adequate compensation for affected families, and the formation of district-level task forces for effective wildlife management and public safety.

The senior BJD leader also urged the state government to stop unscientific mining and the destruction of forests in wildlife-sensitive areas.

Source: IANS

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Ranchi, May 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) A case related to the construction of hotels and resorts in Jharkhand’s Netarhat eco-sensitive zone and Palamu Tiger Reserve has now reached the National Green Tribunal (NGT).

According to a petition filed by environmental activist Govind Pathak, large-scale commercial construction is being carried out within the eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) in violation of prescribed norms.

Taking cognisance of the matter, the eastern zonal bench of the Kolkata-based NGT has found the petition fit for hearing and has issued notices to the parties concerned. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for July 8.

The issue is about the rapid construction activities in and around the Palamu Tiger Reserve, Betla National Park, Netarhat and the Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary.

The petition alleges that several hotels and resorts are being built in these ecologically sensitive forest and wildlife areas without adhering to mandatory environmental regulations.

The case was heard on May 25 by a bench comprising judicial member Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi and expert member Ishwar Singh.

Treating the issue as a serious environmental concern, the NGT has issued notices to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), the Chief Secretary of Jharkhand, other officials concerned, and the Field Director of the Palamu Tiger Reserve, seeking responses within a month.

The petition claims that around 59 hotels and resorts are currently under construction within the ESZ, out of which two are reportedly located within the Palamu Wildlife Sanctuary.

It further states that despite the requirement under ESZ notification, no zonal master plan, tourism master plan, or monitoring committee has been put in place so far, even as construction activities continue.

The petitioner has urged the NGT to impose an immediate ban on illegal constructions, demolish structures built in violation of rules, and fix accountability of the officials concerned while taking appropriate action.

Source: IANS

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Patna, May 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) A leopard that had allegedly terrorised villagers for the past three days in Chakla Bahiyar, located under the Tikapatti Police Station area of Bihar’s Purnea district, was ultimately killed by villagers after repeated attacks on livestock and local residents.

According to local residents, the leopard had strayed into the village and nearby agricultural fields, where it reportedly killed two calves and a goat.

The wild animal also attacked several villagers during the past few days, leaving at least three people injured.

All the injured individuals are reported to be out of danger.

On Wednesday, panic spread again after a leopard was spotted moving through the fields.

A large crowd of villagers gathered, surrounded the wild animal, and, after a prolonged confrontation, managed to kill it.

The incident triggered chaos and fear throughout the locality.

Villagers reported sightings of wild animals in the area for several days, but the leopard’s repeated attacks intensified fear among residents.

The matter had already been reported to the local police and the Forest Department.

Speaking about the incident, village head Shanti Devi said that information about the leopard’s movements and attacks had been communicated to the authorities, after which the administration and the Forest Department reached the spot.

After receiving information about the incident, officials from the local administration and the Forest Department arrived at the scene and took custody of the leopard’s carcass.

The injured villagers were treated at a nearby referral hospital.

Forest Department officials have now launched an investigation into how the leopard entered the populated area and whether there may be additional wildlife movement in the surrounding region.

According to an official, due to intense heat and humidity, the wild cat may have strayed into human habitats in search of water and food.

The leopard carcass was sent for post-mortem examination, which will be conducted by a panel of three veterinary doctors.

Source: IANS

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Shimla, May 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Indian Air Force (IAF) has deployed Mi-17 helicopters to assist in the firefighting operations in the popular hill destination Kasauli in Himachal Pradesh and controlled the massive forest fire erupted owing to long dry spell by using Bambi buckets, officials said on Wednesday.

However, no loss of life or injuries has been reported among civilians or responders. The helicopters lifted water from the rain-fed Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh using bambi buckets and carried out night operations with crew using night vision goggles, an IAF statement said, adding “over 15 shuttles, more than 40,000 litres of water have already been dropped on the fire zone”.

Subdivisional Magistrate (Kasauli) Mahinder Chauhan told the media that multiple fires have been reported, prompting deployment of fire-tenders.

In a sustained overnight operation lasting over 15 hours and continuing into the day, the Indian Army, in close coordination with the Indian Air Force, civil officials of both Kasauli and the Chandigarh administration, and other local agencies, has successfully contained a major forest fire that erupted in the Gilbert Trail and Upper Mall area on the western slopes of Kasauli.

Following the outbreak of the fire at around 3 p.m. on May 26, the Indian Army’s Kasauli Brigade launched an immediate and coordinated response to prevent the blaze from spreading across the densely forested and difficult terrain.

The operation involved extensive ground firefighting efforts by army troops, fire- tenders and water carriers, alongside aerial firefighting missions by IAF helicopters undertaking multiple Bambi Bucket sorties using water from the Sukhna Lake.

The IAF said the combined efforts significantly contained the fire in key affected areas, while preventing its spread into vulnerable forest zones.

Army personnel, including both combatant and non-combatant staff, continue to operate under challenging conditions, creating firebreaks, isolating vulnerable pockets and dousing residual hotspots to prevent flare-ups.

Aerial firefighting operations are continuing over inaccessible stretches. All personnel and equipment deployed in the operation remain safe, it said.

Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh, Army Commander, Western Command, visited the affected area to review the ongoing operations and assess the situation on ground. He commended the personnel for their swift response, courage and relentless efforts under extremely challenging conditions.

The operation once again underscores the Indian armed forces’ high state of operational readiness, inter-agency coordination and unwavering commitment towards safeguarding lives, property and the environment during natural emergencies and humanitarian contingencies.

According to the state Forest Department, 22 per cent or 8,267 sq km of the total forest area in the state is fire prone.

A majority of the fires are reported from the pine forests as during summer the trees shed pine needles that are highly inflammable. The pine forest is found up to an altitude of 5,500 feet.

Source: IANS

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Dehradun, May 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) As forest fire incidents continue to spread rapidly across the mountainous regions of Uttarakhand, the state government is preparing to introduce a reward scheme aimed at encouraging public participation in forest fire prevention and control efforts, officials said on Tuesday.

Under the proposed initiative, individuals and teams performing exceptional work in extinguishing and preventing forest fires would be rewarded with cash prizes of up to Rs 1 lakh.

The details were shared during a press conference organised by the Uttarakhand Forest Department, where Chief Conservator of Forests (Forest Fires) Sushant Patnaik presented an extensive overview of the state's 'Forest Fire Control and Management 2026' strategy.

Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal and Head of the Forest Department Ranjan Mishra were also present during the briefing.

Patnaik stated that Uttarakhand has been witnessing a steady increase in forest fire incidents due to factors such as rising global temperatures, prolonged dry spells, erratic monsoon patterns and climatic phenomena including El Nino.

He said the India Meteorological Department's Meteorological Centre in Dehradun has already forecast a further rise in temperatures and dry weather conditions in the coming days, increasing the possibility of additional forest fire incidents.

"Amidst the continuously rising incidents of forest fires in Uttarakhand, the state government will soon submit a proposal to introduce a reward scheme for those who help protect forests from fire. Teams and individuals who perform exceptional work in extinguishing and preventing forest fires will be awarded prizes of up to Rs 1 lakh. Additionally, prizes worth Rs 75,000 and Rs 51,000 have also been designated," Patnaik said.

During a presentation, officials revealed that over the last decade, Uttarakhand recorded a total of 14,638 forest fire incidents affecting nearly 23,682.77 hectares of forest land.

The department stated that during this period, 35 people lost their lives and another 76 sustained injuries in forest fire-related incidents.

According to the data presented, 394 forest fire incidents have already been reported in 2026, impacting around 331.12 hectares of land, while one human fatality has been recorded so far this year.

Patnaik also pointed out that the Uttarakhand government had categorised forest fires as a "natural calamity" as early as 2003.

"The Forest Department is actively pursuing efforts to control forest fires through collaboration with various organisations, local communities, and public awareness campaigns," he said.

Officials shared that the reserved forest area under the control of the Forest Department spans 25,138.1814 square kilometres, while Civil and Panchayat forest areas together account for 3,890.526 square kilometres, constituting approximately 15.45 per cent of the total forest area in the state.

At present, Uttarakhand has 11 Regional Forest Circles, 43 Forest Divisions, 283 Ranges and 2,393 Beats functioning across the state. In addition, a total of 11,217 Forest Panchayats have been constituted for local forest management and protection.

To strengthen forest fire response mechanisms, the department has established an Integrated Command and Control Centre at the headquarters level. Across the state, authorities have also set up 1,438 crew stations, 40 master control rooms and 174 fire watcher towers.

Officials said communication infrastructure has also been upgraded with 45 wireless repeater sets, 488 base sets, 1,548 walkie-talkie handsets, 248 mobile sets and 1,507 GPS sets being deployed for monitoring and emergency coordination.

The department stated that 13,085.03 kilometres of fire lines have been prepared throughout the state as part of fire containment measures.

As per the Forest Fire Risk Zonation Mapping, districts including Almora, Pauri Garhwal, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarkashi, Nainital and Pithoragarh have been categorised as highly sensitive in terms of forest fire vulnerability.

The Forest Department has also introduced an IVRS service accessible through the helpline number 1926, along with the 'Uttarakhand Forest Fire' mobile application for public reporting and awareness.

Officials said that following the success of the 'Sheetlakhet Model', the department has also implemented the 'Jardhar Model' for forest fire management and community participation.

Additionally, the state has made provisions to observe 'Agni Diwas' or Fire Day as part of awareness campaigns aimed at preventing forest fires.

To involve local communities and simultaneously generate livelihood opportunities, the department is implementing the 'Pine Pirul Collection Scheme', under which residents are provided an incentive of Rs 10 per kilogram for collecting dry pine needles, locally known as Pirul.

According to officials, nine Pirul-based pellet and briquette production units are currently operational in Uttarakhand.

Over the past four years, 13,003.56 tonnes of Pirul have been collected, while the target for 2026 has been fixed at 8,555 tonnes.

Authorities further informed that 496 Forest Fire Protection and Management Committees have been formed at the Gram Panchayat and cluster levels. Committees assisting the department in controlling fires are being given incentives of Rs 30,000 each.

During the 2026 forest fire season, a total of 5,625 fire watchers were deployed across the state. These personnel have also been provided insurance coverage of up to Rs 10 lakh per person under a group accident insurance scheme.

The department stated that during 2026, it organised 3,235 public awareness programmes in which 81,414 people participated.

Officials also confirmed that an MoU has been signed with the India Meteorological Department to receive customised forest fire forecasts for better preparedness and rapid response.

In addition, inter-agency coordination meetings have been organised at the state level to ensure cooperation between various departments involved in forest fire management.

Mock drills related to forest fire emergencies have also been conducted in all districts, while senior Forest Department officials have been appointed as District Nodal Officers to improve coordination with other government agencies.

Under the World Bank-funded U-PREPARE scheme, the department has supplied firefighting equipment, including fire rakes, protective suits, gloves, helmets, boots, water bottles and headlamps to various forest divisions across the state.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued a fresh set of sweeping directions to Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh to curb rampant illegal sand mining in and around the National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary, cautioning that continued environmental degradation and unchecked mining activities pose a serious threat to wildlife habitats, river ecosystems and public infrastructure.

A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta, hearing the suo motu matter concerning illegal sand mining in the Chambal region, directed the three states to strengthen surveillance systems, expedite recruitment of frontline forest personnel, intensify prosecution against organised mining networks, and ensure protection of ecological flows in the Chambal River.

Invoking its powers under Article 142 of the Constitution, the apex court directed the states to complete, "as far as practicable", recruitment to vacant posts of forest guards and other frontline enforcement personnel within one year.

"The material placed before this Court, the compliance affidavits filed by the respective states and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), and the continuing and grave concerns relating to rampant illegal sand mining activities, degradation of protected wildlife habitats, operation of unregistered and unidentified vehicles, inadequacy of enforcement mechanisms and the threat posed to critical public infrastructure in the affected regions" necessitated further directions, the Justice Vikram Nath-led Bench observed.

It also ordered Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh to operationalise CCTV surveillance systems, integrated monitoring mechanisms and control centres in vulnerable regions within six months.

In a significant direction, the apex court ordered stringent action against vehicles involved in illegal mining and transportation activities, including tractors, excavators, dredgers and dumpers operating with fake or tampered registration plates or without valid registration particulars.

It directed authorities to initiate criminal prosecution not only against drivers but also against owners, financiers, contractors and others connected with organised illegal mining operations.

"The concerned states shall ensure that all FIRs and criminal proceedings relating to illegal mining and transportation activities are effectively and comprehensively investigated not merely against the drivers of the vehicles involved, but also against the owners, financiers, operators, contractors and all other persons involved in organising, facilitating, financing or otherwise benefiting from such illegal mining operations," the bench said.

Taking note of increasing attacks on forest personnel engaged in anti-mining operations, the apex court also directed the three states to examine the need for granting statutory protection to forest guards and frontline enforcement personnel for bona fide actions performed during official duties.

It further directed the NHAI to install high-resolution night-vision CCTV cameras on the National Highway-44 bridge near the Morena-Dholpur border, covering vulnerable stretches of the Chambal riverbed where illegal excavation activities have been reported. The surveillance feed is to be shared with police and forest authorities of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh to facilitate coordinated enforcement action.

The apex court additionally ordered immediate steps to prevent dumping of debris and waste into the Chambal River from bridges and adjoining infrastructure, directing the NHAI to install tamper-proof fencing and protective mesh around vulnerable locations.

In another significant direction, the Justice Vikram Nath-led Bench asked the three states to examine the feasibility of creating employment schemes, skill development programmes and livelihood initiatives for local youth and economically vulnerable communities residing in regions affected by illegal mining.

The apex court also directed the states to explore involving local communities in conservation, eco-tourism, afforestation and environmental protection activities connected with the National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary.

Expressing concern over ecological flows in the Chambal River, the top court impleaded the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Central Water Commission as party respondents and directed them, along with the three states, to file affidavits detailing measures being taken to preserve and augment environmental flows in the river and its tributaries.

The bench also observed that any proposal for de-notification of a wildlife sanctuary would require prior approval of the Supreme Court.

In its order, the top also took note of an intervention application filed by the Madhya Pradesh Forest Employees Association, through advocates Rohit Kumar and Akanksha Singh, highlighting the hazardous conditions faced by forest guards and other frontline personnel engaged in anti-mining and wildlife protection duties.

The association submitted that despite several deaths and fatal injuries suffered by forest personnel while discharging official duties, there exists no comprehensive and uniform policy governing compensation, insurance coverage, ex gratia payments and compassionate appointments.

Issuing notice on the application, the Supreme Court directed Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh governments to place on record details of existing welfare policies and measures proposed for strengthening protection and welfare mechanisms for frontline forest staff.

The matter has been listed for further hearing on July 22.

Meanwhile, shortly after dictating the detailed order, the bench took on record a media report highlighting that illegal sand mining and transportation activities were continuing unabated despite earlier directions of the top court.

The news report referred to "numerous instances of unregistered and unnumbered vehicles carrying sand" in villages of Madhya Pradesh's Morena district.

Taking serious note of the newspaper report placed before it by amicus curiae, senior advocate Nikhil Goel, the apex court directed Additional Solicitor General S. V. Raju, appearing for Madhya Pradesh, to file an urgent response.

"Mr S.V. Raju, learned ASG representing the State of Madhya Pradesh, shall file urgent response to the observations noted in the aforesaid news report," it ordered while posting the matter on Friday for further consideration of the fresh allegations.

The latest directions come in continuation of the apex court’s earlier order, where it had described rampant illegal mining in the Chambal sanctuary as a reflection of "systemic and institutional failure" on the part of the state authorities. The Supreme Court had observed that illegal mining activities had caused "severe disruption of riverine and ecological systems" and posed a direct threat to critically endangered gharials and other aquatic wildlife.

Source: IANS

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Amreli, May 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Five Asiatic lions, including three cubs, have died in Gujarat’s Gir landscape over the past 10 days, with forest authorities suspecting babesiosis — a tick-borne parasitic disease — in four of the cases, while one cub is believed to have died in infighting among lions.

State Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia said reports claiming a wider outbreak among Gir lions were emerged and clarified that only two lion deaths were officially suspected to be linked directly to babesiosis so far, while the remaining deaths had occurred because of conflict or other causes.

“The Babesia virus spreads among animals through ticks. Infected lions develop weakness, nasal discharge and coughing, and in some cases it can lead to death,” Modhwadia said.

He added that teams of forest officials and veterinary doctors were actively identifying suspected animals, collecting samples and providing treatment.

Tick-removal measures were also being undertaken to prevent further spread of the disease.

“The Forest Department is fully prepared and carrying out operations to ensure that this disease does not spread in the forests. There is no need for concern,” the minister said, adding that Gujarat’s lion management system was globally recognised and that the state’s lion population continued to rise.

Dr. Jaipal Singh, Principal Chief Conservator of Forest & Head of the Forest Force (PCCF & HoFF) told IANS that the deaths included two adult lions and three cubs. “Four is believed to have died due to the suspected virus (still verifying) and one cub due to infighting in Amreli district,” he said, adding that such cases are usually seen during the first four to five months of the year.

He noted that medical teams were continuously monitoring lions and taking precautionary measures.

Babesiosis is caused by microscopic parasites of the genus Babesia, which infect red blood cells and are transmitted primarily through tick bites.

In lions and other wild felines, the disease can cause fever, anaemia, weakness, dehydration, respiratory distress and reduced immunity.

Wildlife experts have previously warned that infected lions become more vulnerable to secondary infections and stress-related complications.

The disease gained attention in Gir during the 2018 outbreak in which more than 20 Asiatic lions died after a combination of canine distemper virus (CDV) and babesiosis infections.

CDV, a highly contagious viral disease affecting carnivores, attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems of animals and had raised serious concerns about the vulnerability of the world’s only wild Asiatic lion population.

Following that outbreak, Gujarat strengthened veterinary surveillance, quarantine systems, radio-collaring and disease-monitoring mechanisms in the Gir landscape.

Gir National Park and surrounding forest divisions in Gujarat remain the only natural habitat of the Asiatic lion.

According to figures cited by state government officials during the International Big Cat Alliance pre-event at Sasan Gir earlier this month, the Asiatic lion population in the Greater Gir landscape has increased to an estimated 891 lions in 2025, a rise of about 32 per cent from 2020 levels.

Lions, once largely restricted to three districts, are now spread across 11 districts in Gujarat.

The Union government’s Project Lion, launched in 2020, includes habitat expansion, breeding and isolation facilities, upgraded veterinary treatment centres, drone surveillance and long-term disease management measures aimed at protecting the species.

Source: IANS

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Wayanad, May 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) Assuring immediate support to the bereaved family, Kerala Forest Minister Shibhu Baby John on Tuesday said all necessary steps would be taken to provide compensation and other assistance following the latest fatal wild elephant attack in Wayanad, which took place on Tuesday.

The Minister said forest officials had been directed to ensure that peace and normalcy return to the area where the incident occurred and added that the government would intensify measures to address the growing man-animal conflict gripping Kerala.

“We will undertake further steps and measures to ease the human-animal conflict that has affected the state,” the Minister said amid rising public anger over recurring wildlife attacks in forest-border regions.

The latest tragedy unfolded at Kalladi near Meppadi, where a woman was killed after a wild elephant attacked the scooter on which she was travelling with her husband.

The deceased was identified as Jessy, a native of Puthumala.

Her husband, Shaji, sustained injuries in the attack.

According to local residents, the couple was travelling through the area when the elephant suddenly emerged and attacked them.

Jessy suffered fatal injuries, while Shaji escaped with injuries and was later shifted for treatment.

Forest officials and police personnel rushed to the spot soon after the incident and initiated further proceedings.

The incident has once again highlighted the worsening human-wildlife conflict in Kerala’s high-range districts, especially in Wayanad, where elephant intrusions into human settlements and roads have become increasingly frequent.

Residents of the area said they had repeatedly raised concerns over the growing presence of wild elephants near populated regions and accused authorities of failing to implement effective preventive measures despite several earlier incidents.

The latest death has triggered fresh anxiety and anger among people living along forest fringes, where fear of elephant attacks has increasingly become part of everyday life.

With public pressure mounting, the state government now faces renewed demands for stronger and long-term measures to prevent further loss of human lives in wildlife conflict zones.

Source: IANS

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Bhopal, May 25 (SocialNews.XYZ) A second autopsy of the tiger that killed a woman and injured three members of her family in Kherwa Tola locality of Panpatha village near Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve was performed on Monday.

After the attack, the tiger retreated into the forest but later returned to the village in an unusual manner and was found lying motionless, officials said.

Forest officials launched a rescue operation and darted the animal. However, it was found dead during the operation.

A second post-mortem of the tiger was conducted on Monday, officials said.

The incident occurred around 3 a.m. on Sunday when the tiger strayed into the residential area and attacked Phool Bai Pal (40) while she was sleeping inside her village house.

The animal also injured her husband, father, and father-in-law, who rushed to save her. All three sustained critical injuries.

Speaking to IANS, Anupam Sahay, Field Director of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, strongly refuted speculation that the tiger died due to an overdose of tranquillisers.

He clarified that preliminary findings do not support this claim.

Sahay said several other factors, such as heatstroke, thirst, or underlying disease, could have contributed to the tiger’s death.

A formal statement issued by the reserve authorities also dismissed media and social media reports suggesting death due to a tranquiliser overdose.

“We are awaiting the second autopsy report; it will take at least two days,” Sahay said.

He also refuted rumours that enraged villagers might have killed the tiger.

“There were no fractures or injury marks on the carcass of the tiger,” he said.

The incident triggered anger among local residents, who protested against repeated tiger attacks in the area.

Angry villagers allegedly assaulted a forest ranger and manhandled a woman forest staffer during the protest.

The Madhya Pradesh Forest Department has initiated a detailed investigation into the entire episode.

The three injured family members are undergoing treatment in a hospital. The state government has already granted financial aid and free medical treatment to the injured.

Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in Umaria district is one of India’s premier tiger habitats, where human-tiger conflict is often reported.

Authorities have appealed for calm and assured residents that necessary safety measures are in place.

Source: IANS

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Shivpuri, May 25 (SocialNews.XYZ) A leopard that strayed out of Kuno National Park (KNP) fell into a well while chasing a calf in Shivpuri district and injured two villagers during a rescue operation, an official said on Monday.

According to information, the incident occurred in Bhilaudi village, located close to the national park’s boundary.

The leopard entered the residential area from the forest on Sunday morning and spotted a calf grazing near agricultural fields.

As the leopard chased the calf, the frightened animal bolted and accidentally fell into a nearby open well.

The leopard, continuing the pursuit, also slipped and plunged into the same well. Villagers who witnessed the chase immediately alerted the forest department.

A rescue team from Kuno National Park rushed to the scene with equipment to pull the wild animal out.

Two local villagers, identified as Mohan Singh, son of Bhup Singh Yadav, and Uddhav Shikari, volunteered to help and climbed into the well to assist forest officials.

Before the leopard could be tranquillised or caged, it attacked both men inside the well.

The forest team quickly intervened, separated the animal, and moved the injured villagers to a nearby hospital.

“Both the injured persons received injuries during the rescue operation. They were provided immediate medical attention, and their condition is stable,” Medical Officer Raju Singh told IANS.

Forest officials later rescued the leopard from the well without further incident. The animal is under observation and will be released back into the forest after a health check.

Panic spread in Bhilaudi after the leopard was spotted near homes.

A resident said they heard the calf’s cries and saw the leopard fall into the well, following which the forest department was informed.

Kuno National Park has frequently been in the spotlight due to cheetahs relocated under the cheetah reintroduction project.

Several cheetahs have travelled beyond park boundaries into neighbouring districts and even towards Rajasthan in recent months.

Source: IANS

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Bhopal, May 24 (SocialNews.XYZ) In a tragic incident that has sent shockwaves through the local community in areas near Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, a woman lost her life in a tiger attack within the Park area in Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh.

Several other individuals also sustained injuries during the encounter that took place in Kherwa Tola village, located inside the protected forest zone.

State Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed his heartfelt condolences to the grieving family and announced a compensation of Rs 25 lakh from the state government corpus.

Late Sunday night, a tiger strayed into the residential area of Kherwa Tola in the Panpatha zone of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Umaria district. The tiger entered the house of Phool Bai and attacked her while she was sleeping, killing her on the spot.

Hearing her screams, her husband, father, and father-in-law rushed inside to rescue her, but the tiger also attacked them, leaving all three critically injured. The incident triggered panic and fear across the village.

Demonstrating his commitment to supporting those affected, the Chief Minister also promised to provide free medical treatment along with appropriate compensation to all those injured in the tiger attack.

Taking to social media, CM Mohan Yadav said, "The news of a woman's death and injuries sustained by several citizens in a tiger attack in Kherwa Tola village - located within the Bandhavgarh National Park area in Umaria district - is deeply distressing. My deepest sympathies go out to the bereaved family members. I have issued directives to provide financial assistance of Rs 25 lakh to the family of the deceased, as well as to ensure free medical treatment and appropriate compensation for the injured. I pray to God for the peace of the departed soul and for the speedy recovery of those injured."

Bandhavgarh National Park, known for its rich population of tigers and diverse flora and fauna, attracts tourists from across the globe. However, incidents like this remind residents and authorities alike of the delicate balance required between conservation efforts and ensuring the safety of local communities living on the fringes of these protected areas.

Local officials have been instructed to remain vigilant and take necessary measures to prevent future occurrences. Forest department teams are likely to intensify patrolling and awareness campaigns in the surrounding villages to educate people about safety protocols while venturing into or near the forest.

The state government’s response not only offers immediate relief to the affected families but also sends a strong message about prioritising human lives alongside wildlife preservation. This incident has once again brought into focus the need for sustainable coexistence strategies in India’s tiger reserves.

Source: IANS

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Bhopal, May 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said on Friday that the state government is making continuous efforts to protect wildlife and strengthen biodiversity across the state.

Speaking at the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) pre-summit event organised on International Biodiversity Day at the Indian Institute of Forest Management in Bhopal, the Chief Minister highlighted the state’s achievements in wildlife conservation, including the successful reintroduction of cheetahs at Kuno National Park.

“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Bhupender Yadav, Madhya Pradesh has earned the distinction of becoming a cheetah state. The cheetah project is a major example of wildlife restoration,” Yadav said.

He said the state has also brought back eight wild buffaloes after nearly 100 years, helping improve biodiversity in Kanha National Park.

The Chief Minister added that Madhya Pradesh is also working for the conservation of rare species such as turtles, gharials and vultures.

“According to the Sanatan culture, forests should have the presence of all wildlife species. Our government is working continuously in this direction,” Yadav said.

The Chief Minister also said the state is planning to introduce king cobras and rhinos in suitable habitats. Wildlife rescue centres are being developed near national parks to provide quick treatment to injured animals.

During the programme, 20 motorcycles and a rescue truck were flagged off to strengthen wildlife rescue and protection work. Short films related to biodiversity and wildlife conservation in Madhya Pradesh were also screened.

Union Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Bhupender Yadav said biodiversity is essential for human life as it provides food, medicine and livelihood.

“If we cannot create nature, at least we should not destroy it,” he said, while stressing the need for environmental protection.

He also praised the Madhya Pradesh government for its efforts in wildlife conservation and environmental protection.

Source: IANS

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Guwahati, May 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday reaffirmed the state government’s commitment towards biodiversity conservation, protection of forests and elimination of poaching, marking the occasion of the International Day for Biological Diversity.

In a post on X, the Chief Minister said Assam is blessed with rich natural resources, lush forests and rare wildlife, and stressed the need for stronger conservation efforts to preserve the state’s ecological heritage for future generations.

“Our Assam, enriched with lush forests, rare wildlife, and invaluable natural resources, is truly blessed by nature. From the iconic Kaziranga National Park to the dense forests of Dehing Patkai National Park, from Manas National Park to Maguri Beel, our land is surrounded by a rich treasure of biodiversity,” CM Sarma wrote.

The Chief Minister further stated that the government would continue its drive against encroachment in forest areas and intensify anti-poaching measures across protected zones in the state.

“On this special occasion of International Biodiversity Day, we reaffirm our commitment to work with even greater determination towards conserving our biodiversity. We are resolute in our efforts to free our forests from encroachment and to build a zero-poaching Assam,” he added.

Assam is home to several globally recognised wildlife habitats and national parks that shelter endangered species, including the one-horned rhinoceros, Royal Bengal tiger, wild buffalo, Asian elephant and hoolock gibbon.

The state government has, in recent years, intensified eviction drives in reserved forest areas and wildlife sanctuaries, saying the measures are aimed at protecting ecologically sensitive regions from illegal encroachment.

Authorities have also strengthened surveillance and anti-poaching operations in national parks, particularly in Kaziranga, which has witnessed a significant decline in rhino poaching cases over the years.

Observed annually on May 22, the International Day for Biological Diversity seeks to raise awareness on the importance of protecting ecosystems, wildlife and natural resources across the world.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 21 (SocialNews.XYZ) A guided tour and an expert talk on biodiversity were key highlights of the National Zoological Park’s Summer Vacation Programme (SVP) 2026 which began at the Education Centre of with the participation of students across Delhi-NCR, an official said on Thursday.

Zoo Director Sanjeet Kumar interacted with the participants and highlighted the importance of involving young minds with modern and innovative technologies in biodiversity conservation and environmental stewardship through such interactive educational initiatives.

Organised under the Mass Mobilisation Campaign for Mission LiFE and aligned with the World Environment Day theme “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.”, the two-week programme aims to create awareness among young students about biodiversity conservation, climate action, wildlife protection, cleanliness and sustainable living through interactive educational activities.

A total of 854 students registered online through the Google registration link made available on the official website of the National Zoological Park.

Out of these, 60 participants were selected on a first-come, first-served basis and subsequently contacted telephonically for confirmation. On the inaugural day, 39 students from 15 schools across Delhi-NCR attended the session with great enthusiasm, said a statement issued by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

The first day of the programme featured an orientation session introducing participants to the objectives and activities of SVP 2026, followed by a guided zoo visit covering herbivore and carnivore enclosures. An expert talk on biodiversity was also delivered by Faiyaz A. on the eve of the International Day for Biological Diversity.

The two-week-long programme is being conducted in two slots – Slot A and Slot B – with 50 participants in each slot, comprising 25 junior and 25 senior students.

The programme schedule includes a wide range of educational and creative activities such as wildlife photography, art and craft, heritage walks, slogan writing, poster-making competitions, cleanliness awareness campaigns, clay modelling, essay writing, exhibitions, expert talks and Mission LiFE awareness sessions, said a statement.

The Summer Vacation Programme will continue from May 21 to June 6, engaging students from Classes VI to XII in experiential learning and conservation education.

Source: IANS

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Bhopal, May 21 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Madhya Pradesh government said on Thursday that the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) Pre-Summit event will be inaugurated in Bhopal on Friday on the occasion of International Biodiversity Day 2026.

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav along with Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav will chair the programme.

The pre-summit is scheduled at the Indian Institute of Forest Management (IIFM) Auditorium in Bhopal.

Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Kirti Vardhan Singh and Madhya Pradesh Forest and Environment Minister Dilip Ahirwar will be present as guests of honour.

The programme is being jointly organised by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, National Biodiversity Authority, Madhya Pradesh government, International Big Cat Alliance, and IIFM.

According to the official statement, Chief Minister Yadav and Union Minister Bhupender Yadav will flag off a fleet comprising 20 motorcycles and one rescue truck.

The event will feature deliberations on various dimensions of biodiversity conservation, wildlife enrichment, and specifically the conservation of big cats.

The Madhya Pradesh Forest Department will also present a special presentation on the Cheetah Reintroduction Project in India.

During the event, several publications and digital initiatives related to biodiversity and conservation will be released and unveiled.

These include commemorative postage stamps, 'India's Biodiversity Report 2026', India's first national report on the Nagoya Protocol, and the ABS (Access and Benefit Sharing) end-to-end web portal.

Films focusing on Access and Benefit Sharing, the Amarkantak Biodiversity Heritage Site, and the conservation of sacred groves in Madhya Pradesh will also be screened.

The state government said the event is expected to enhance public awareness regarding biodiversity conservation, ecological balance, and wildlife protection.

It will also reaffirm India's commitment to global conservation efforts, particularly for big cats.

The IBCA was launched by India to strengthen international cooperation for the conservation of seven big cats -- tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar, and puma.

Source: IANS

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