Expansion of Ramsar Sites: India has added three more wetlands to the Ramsar Sites List, reflecting efforts in conserving water-dependent ecological systems.
Locations and Features: The newly recognized sites are Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary, Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary, and Tawa Reservoir, enhancing India’s commitment to biodiversity.
Conservation Significance: These sites are crucial for bird species conservation and act as vital water management resources, supporting both biodiversity and local agriculture.
National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS) Launched
AI Integration in Agriculture: The Agriculture Minister inaugurated the AI-based NPSS, aimed at improving pest management and reducing pesticide overuse.
Functional Benefits: The system will offer real-time pest management advisories and promote Integrated Pest Management practices.
Impact on Farmers: NPSS seeks to diminish farmers’ reliance on pesticide retailers, addressing a key issue in agricultural sustainability.
Vulture Population’s Impact on Public Health
Study Findings: A significant decline in vulture populations has led to increased premature human deaths, linking ecological balance to public health.
Economic Implications: The absence of vultures has led to a nearly $70 billion annual economic loss due to increased healthcare costs and environmental cleanup.
Conservation Measures: Efforts include banning harmful veterinary drugs and establishing Vulture Conservation Breeding Centers.
Global Bio-India 2024 and Bio-Economy
Bio-Economy Potential: Highlighted at the Global Bio-India 2024, the bio-economy is poised to drive the next industrial revolution with sustainable biological processes.
Economic Impact: The sector, which has grown significantly, aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and enhance environmental sustainability.
Challenges and Initiatives: The sector faces regulatory and ethical challenges, with initiatives aimed at boosting biotech innovation and resource efficiency.
Monkeypox Declared a Global Health Emergency
WHO’s Declaration: Following significant outbreaks, monkeypox has been declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).
Spread and Symptoms: The disease, primarily found in central and western Africa, has shown wider international spread and severity in recent outbreaks.
Preventative Measures: Vaccines and treatments developed for smallpox are being adapted to combat monkeypox, highlighting the need for global health preparedness.
Launch of Earth Observation Satellite EOS-08
Mission Objectives: ISRO’s recent launch aims to enhance disaster monitoring and environmental management through advanced satellite technology.
Technical Capabilities: The satellite will perform earth observation tasks using infrared and UV payloads, crucial for addressing climate-related challenges.
Strategic Importance: This mission underscores India’s capabilities in space technology, contributing to global environmental monitoring efforts.
Key Concepts and Policies:
Ramsar Sites: Wetlands of international importance designated under the Ramsar Convention for their ecological, botanical, or hydrological significance.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM): An effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of practices.
Bio-Economy: Refers to the production and use of biological resources to provide goods and services in all economic sectors sustainably.
