Monthly DNA
Hong Kong Convention for Safe Ship Recycling UPSC GS-3 ENVIRONMENT PT-MAINS The Hong Kong International Convention, 2009 is an IMO treaty that ensures ships are recycled safely without unnecessary risk to human health, worker safety and the environment. Why in News? The Hong Kong Convention entered into force on 26 June 2025, making global standards for safe and environmentally sound ship recycling legally operational. It is important for India because India is one of the major ship-recycling countries and has aligned its domestic law through the Recycling of Ships Act, 2019. Core issue Old ships often contain hazardous materials such…
27 June, 2025
International Agreements & Groupings
First Assembly of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) The First Assembly of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) was held in New Delhi. The assembly was presided over by Shri Bhupender Yadav. Key Details Aspect Details Event First Assembly of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA). Venue New Delhi. President Shri Bhupender Yadav. About IBCA Feature Details Formation IBCA was formed under the aegis of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). Initiated By The International Big Cat Alliance was initiated by India in March 2024. Coalition IBCA is a coalition of 95 range countries. Mandate It has a mandate…
07 May, 2026
Biodiversity
Bonn Climate Change Conference 2025 The Bonn Climate Change Conference 2025 was held in Bonn, Germany, from 16–26 June. The conference serves as an important technical meeting under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Key Details Aspect Details Venue Bonn, Germany. Dates Held from 16–26 June. Nature of Conference An annual technical meeting held under the UNFCCC. UNFCCC The 1992 treaty aimed at tackling climate change. Official Name Officially called the Sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies (SBs). Importance of the Conference Area Significance Global Climate Forum It is regarded as the second most significant global climate forum…
12 April, 2026
Biodiversity
UN Ocean Conference 2025 The 3rd UN Ocean Conference 2025 was held in Nice, France, from 9–13 June 2025. The conference was co-hosted by France and Costa Rica and focused on strengthening global action for ocean protection and sustainable marine governance. Key Details Aspect Details Venue Nice, France. Dates Held from 9–13 June 2025. Host The 3rd UN Ocean Conference was co-hosted by France and Costa Rica. Earlier Conferences Previous UN Ocean Conferences were hosted by Sweden and Fiji in New York in 2017, and by Portugal and Kenya in Lisbon in 2022. Major Outcomes Outcome Details Nice Action Plan…
09 April, 2026
International Agreements & Groupings
India’s First Centre of Excellence for Hornbill Conservation The Tamil Nadu government has announced the establishment of India’s first dedicated Centre of Excellence for Hornbill Conservation. The Centre will be set up at the Anamalai Tiger Reserve (ATR) in Coimbatore district to strengthen hornbill conservation and research in the Western Ghats. Key Features of the Centre Component Details Location The Centre will be established at Anamalai Tiger Reserve (ATR) in Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu. Main Objective To promote hornbill conservation, habitat protection, research, and ecological awareness. Ecological Region Focuses on hornbill species found in the Western Ghats, a global biodiversity…
06 May, 2026
Biodiversity
Greater Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi The Tamil Nadu government has officially declared a Greater Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi in Ramanathapuram district. The sanctuary aims to protect migratory bird habitats and strengthen biodiversity conservation in the ecologically sensitive coastal region. Key Features of the Sanctuary Component Details Sanctuary Location Located at Dhanushkodi in Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu. Main Objective To protect migratory bird habitats and enhance biodiversity conservation. Area Covered Spans approximately 524.7 hectares. Ecological Importance Forms an important part of the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve. Migratory Bird Importance Aspect Details Flyway Route Dhanushkodi lies along the Central Asian…
05 May, 2026
Biodiversity
Vishnu Shridhar Wakankar Tiger Reserve On 9th January 2026, the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh announced that the Ratapani Tiger Reserve would be renamed after the renowned archaeologist Dr. Vishnu Shridhar Wakankar. The decision honours Dr. Wakankar’s contribution to archaeology, heritage conservation, and astronomical geography. Contributions of Dr. Vishnu Shridhar Wakankar Area Contribution Bhimbetka Discovery Dr. Wakankar brought the prehistoric Bhimbetka cave paintings to global attention in 1957. Location Bhimbetka is located within the Ratapani Tiger Reserve. Astronomical Geography He identified the exact location near Dongla, close to Ujjain, where the Tropic of Cancer intersects the ancient Indian Prime Meridian.…
02 May, 2026
Biodiversity
Madhya Pradesh: Home to India’s Highest Vulture Population Madhya Pradesh has emerged as the state with the highest vulture population in India, reflecting major progress in wildlife conservation. According to the first phase of the 2025 Vulture Census, the state’s vulture population reached 12,981, showing a sharp rise over previous years. Vulture Census Highlights Year Vulture Population 2019 8,397 vultures recorded. 2024 Population increased to 10,845. 2025 Population further rose to 12,981. Key Features Aspect Details Leading State Madhya Pradesh now has the highest vulture population in India. Species Diversity The state is home to seven out of the nine…
02 May, 2026
Biodiversity
‘Digital Tree Aadhaar’ Initiative The Jammu & Kashmir Forest Research Institute (JKFRI) launched the ‘Digital Tree Aadhaar’ initiative for the conservation of Chinar trees. The initiative involves conducting a census of Chinar trees and assigning a unique identity to each tree. Key Features Component Details Initiative Name ‘Digital Tree Aadhaar’. Launched By Jammu & Kashmir Forest Research Institute (JKFRI). Main Objective Conservation and monitoring of Chinar trees. Method Census of Chinar trees and assignment of a unique identity to each tree. Chinar Tree Aspect Details Tree Status Chinar is the state tree of Jammu & Kashmir. Administrative Context Jammu &…
01 May, 2026
Biodiversity
Gujarat Regains ‘Tiger State’ Status The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) confirmed the presence of a tiger in the Ratanmahal Sanctuary of Gujarat. Following this development, Gujarat has regained the status of a tiger-inhabited state after more than three decades and will be included in the 2026 tiger census. Key Highlights Component Details Confirming Authority The tiger presence was confirmed by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). Sanctuary The tiger was recorded in the Ratanmahal Sanctuary of Gujarat. State Status Gujarat regained the status of a tiger-inhabited state after more than 30 years. National Census Gujarat will now be included…
19 May, 2026
Biodiversity
Keyi Panyor to Become India’s First ‘Bio-Happy District’ The M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) initiated a project based on the concept of “Biohappiness” in the newly created Keyi Panyor district of Arunachal Pradesh. With this initiative, Keyi Panyor is set to become India’s first ‘Bio-Happy District’. What is Biohappiness? Aspect Details Concept Biohappiness links biodiversity conservation with human well-being. Definition According to Dr. M.S. Swaminathan, it is a condition where conservation and wise use of biodiversity enhance human health, nutrition, and livelihoods. Human-Nature Harmony It promotes harmony between humans and nature through sustainable biodiversity use. Keyi Panyor Initiative Point Details…
14 May, 2026
Biodiversity
CITES CoP20 The 20th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (CoP20) to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora was held from 24 November to 5 December 2025 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The meeting coincided with the 50th anniversary of the Convention and was the first CITES CoP hosted in Central Asia. Key Details of CITES CoP20 Aspect Details Meeting CITES CoP20, the 20th meeting of the Conference of the Parties. Dates Held from 24 November to 5 December 2025. Venue Held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Central Asia First It was the first CITES CoP…
04 May, 2026
Biodiversity
India Joins Tropical Forest Forever Facility as Observer Recently, at the Leaders’ Summit in Belém, Brazil, India announced that it would join the Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF) as an Observer. The move aligns India with global efforts to finance forest conservation and reduce carbon emissions. What is the Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF)? Aspect Details TFFF A global mechanism designed to financially reward countries with tropical forests. Main Objective To reward countries for keeping tropical forests intact and reducing net carbon emissions. India’s Role India joined the facility as an Observer. Global Significance Supports global climate action through forest…
03 May, 2026
Biodiversity
National Camel Sustainability Initiative (NCSI) Recently, the Union Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying is considering launching the National Camel Sustainability Initiative (NCSI). The initiative aims to curb the decline in India’s camel population through conservation, sustainable rangeland management, veterinary innovation, and livelihood diversification. What is NCSI? Aspect Details Full Form NCSI stands for National Camel Sustainability Initiative. Lead Ministry The initiative is being considered by the Union Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. Main Aim To curb the decline in India’s camel population. Policy Nature A centrally coordinated policy platform for camel conservation and livelihood support. Key…
01 May, 2026
Animal Conservation
National Red List Assessment: India’s New Conservation Initiative On 9th October 2025, India launched the National Red List Assessment initiative to conserve the country’s flora and fauna through a science-based, equitable, and people-centred approach by 2030. The initiative supports India’s commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF). What is the National Red List Assessment? Aspect Details Core Aim To document and assess India’s flora and fauna for conservation planning. Species Coverage Around 11,000 species, including 7,000 plant species and 4,000 animal species. Global Link Part of India’s commitments under the CBD and…
01 May, 2026
Biodiversity
UN Biodiversity Summit (CBD COP16) On 27th February 2025, the UN Biodiversity Conference (COP16) in Rome concluded with a hard-won agreement on nature finance. However, concerns remain over the feasibility of halting nature loss by 2030. What is COP16? Aspect Details Full Form COP means Conference of the Parties. Summit Focus COP16 is an international summit focused on implementing the Global Biodiversity Framework. Global Aim The framework aims to halt and reverse nature loss by 2030. Rome Meeting The Rome meeting was crucial for establishing how to fund conservation efforts, particularly for developing nations. Agreements Reached at COP16 Agreement Details…
29 April, 2026
Biodiversity
High Seas Treaty On January 17, 2026, the High Seas Treaty officially entered into force after being ratified by 60 nations. This landmark BBNJ Agreement creates the first legally binding framework to conserve biodiversity in international waters, which cover nearly two-thirds of the world’s oceans. What is the High Seas Treaty? Aspect Details Official Name Agreement on Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ). Legal Framework It operates under UNCLOS, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Coverage Applies to marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. Global Importance Covers international waters that make up…
28 April, 2026
Animal Conservation
‘#23for23’ Awareness Initiative On 23rd October 2025, India celebrated International Snow Leopard Day with the nationwide ‘#23for23’ campaign. The campaign encouraged people to engage in 23 minutes of physical activity to raise awareness about snow leopard conservation. About the Campaign Aspect Details Occasion Launched during International Snow Leopard Day on 23rd October 2025. Campaign Name The campaign was called ‘#23for23’. Public Activity Encouraged people to complete 23 minutes of physical activity. Initiating Body Initiated by the Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection Program (GSLEP). Key Points Point Details First Snow Leopard Census India’s first-ever snow leopard census, Snow Leopard Population…
28 April, 2026
Animal Conservation
New Ramsar Sites 2025–26 During 2025–26, several new wetlands across India were added as Ramsar sites, expanding the country’s network of wetlands of international importance. The additions include first Ramsar sites for Chhattisgarh and Sikkim, while Tamil Nadu continues to have the highest number of Ramsar sites in India. State-wise New Ramsar Sites State New Ramsar Sites / Status Bihar Gokul Jalashay, Gogabil Lake, and Udaipur Jheel; Bihar now has 6 Ramsar sites. Chhattisgarh Kopra Jalashay; it is Chhattisgarh’s 1st Ramsar site. Rajasthan Siliserh Lake, Menar Wetland Complex, and Khichan Wetland; Rajasthan now has 5 Ramsar sites. Sikkim Khachoedpalri Wetland;…
28 April, 2026
Biodiversity
Turtle Trails The Union Budget 2026–27 proposed “Turtle Trails” to develop regulated ecotourism infrastructure along key Olive Ridley turtle nesting sites. The proposed trails will cover important coastal nesting areas in Odisha, Karnataka, and Kerala. What are Turtle Trails? Aspect Details Budget Proposal Proposed in the Union Budget 2026–27. Main Focus Development of regulated ecotourism infrastructure along Olive Ridley turtle nesting sites. Covered States Planned along key nesting sites in Odisha, Karnataka, and Kerala. Intended Aim To promote conservation awareness and create local livelihood opportunities. Key Olive Ridley Nesting Sites Site Location / Importance Gahirmatha Beach Located in Kendrapara, Odisha;…
27 April, 2026
Biodiversity
NHAI to Develop ‘Bee Corridors’ On 17th February 2026, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) announced a first-of-its-kind initiative to develop pollinator or “Bee Corridors” along national highways. The initiative aims to support pollinators by creating continuous stretches of bee-friendly vegetation along highway networks. What are Bee Corridors? Aspect Details Definition Bee Corridors are continuous stretches of bee-friendly plants developed along highways. Main Purpose Designed to ensure year-round flowering and food supply for pollinators. Ecological Goal The initiative aims to reduce ecological stress on pollinators. Ecological Benefit Helps create habitat connectivity along linear infrastructure such as highways. Implementation Strategy…
27 April, 2026
Biodiversity
Himachal Cold Desert Added to UNESCO Network On 27th September 2025, India’s Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve in Himachal Pradesh was included in UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves. With this inclusion, India now has 13 biosphere reserves listed in the UNESCO global network, highlighting the country’s commitment to biodiversity conservation and community-led sustainable development. About the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve Aspect Details UNESCO Recognition Included in UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves. Location Located in Himachal Pradesh. Ecosystem Type Recognised for its unique high-altitude cold desert ecosystem. Biodiversity Value Supports fragile cold desert landscapes with endemic flora and fauna. Significance…
27 April, 2026
Biodiversity
Similipal accorded ‘National Park’ Status Similipal in Mayurbhanj district of Odisha has been accorded ‘National Park’ status by the Odisha government. It has become the 107th national park in India and the second in Odisha, after Bhitarkanika. What is a National Park? Aspect Details Declaration A state government may notify an area as a National Park for protection of wildlife and its environment. Basis of Protection Protection is granted due to ecological, faunal, floral, geomorphological, or zoological importance. Legal Framework National parks are notified under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Human Activity No human activity is permitted except under conditions…
27 April, 2026
Biodiversity
Indian Wolf Recognized as a Distinct Species by IUCN The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has, for the first time, evaluated the Indian wolf (Canis lupus pallipes) as a separate entity from the broader grey wolf species. This move paves the way for its recognition as a distinct species within the Canis genus. Conservation Status Aspect Details Estimated Population The IUCN’s Canid Specialist Group estimates that only about 3,093 Indian wolves remain across India and Pakistan. Red List Status The population has been classified as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List. Major Threats Threatened by habitat loss, prey…
27 April, 2026
Biodiversity