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New Routes to Enhance Travel Connectivity

New Routes to Enhance Travel

Air India Express to Begin Direct Flights Between Pune and Bangkok on December 20 Air India Express is set to start direct flights between Pune

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Viksit Bharat Quiz Challenge

Viksit Bharat Quiz Challenge

What is the Viksit Bharat Quiz Challenge? The Viksit Bharat Quiz Challenge is an initiative aimed at engaging young Indians between the ages of 15

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After the devastating Wayanad landslides, Kerala has revised its proposal for Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs) in the Western Ghats. The revised plan calls for the protection of 8,590 sq km of vulnerable land to prevent future environmental disasters. Kerala’s Revised ESA Proposal: A Critical Step for Western Ghats Protection In a revised proposal submitted to the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC), the Kerala government has requested the protection of 8,590.69 sq km in the Western Ghats. The proposal covers 98 villages across 12 districts, a reduction of 121 sq km from the original plan submitted earlier this year. The revised plan comes in the wake of the deadly landslides that struck Wayanad district in July 2024, which resulted in over 400 deaths and extensive damage to homes and infrastructure. The proposal aims to prevent further environmental catastrophes by designating vulnerable areas as Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs). Key Aspects of the Revised ESA Proposal Focus on Vulnerable Areas: The revised ESA plan covers 8,590.69 sq km of land, emphasizing high-risk zones that require urgent protection. 98 Villages in 12 Districts: The proposal includes 98 villages in landslide-prone areas like Wayanad, Idukki, and Palakkad. Areas Hit by Recent Landslides: Special attention is given to areas like Chooralmala, Mundakkai, and Vellarimala, which were devastated by the recent landslides. Why the Western Ghats Matter The Western Ghats are a biodiversity hotspot, home to several endemic species of flora and fauna. The region also plays a crucial role in regulating the climate and providing water resources to southern India. Protecting these areas is essential for preserving the delicate ecological balance of the region. The Aftermath of Wayanad Landslides The catastrophic landslides in Wayanad, caused by continuous rains, devastated the region and exposed the urgent need for better environmental protection measures. The loss of life and property prompted Kerala to revise its ESA proposal, focusing on the areas that are most vulnerable to such disasters. Concerns and Challenges Over ESA Implementation While the ESA proposal has received support from environmentalists, there are concerns from local communities regarding the restrictions on land use. Farmers and developers fear the impact on their livelihoods. The Kerala government is in talks with stakeholders to find solutions that balance conservation with economic growth. The Role of the Union Government The revised ESA proposal is now under review by the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change. The ministry’s approval is crucial for the implementation of the proposed environmental protection measures. Conclusion: Ensuring the Future of the Western Ghats Kerala’s revised ESA proposal marks a significant step toward safeguarding the Western Ghats from further environmental degradation. By protecting 8,590.69 sq km of ecologically sensitive areas, the state is taking action to mitigate risks, particularly in the wake of the tragic landslides in Wayanad. The challenge ahead is to strike a balance between conservation and the needs of local communities, ensuring sustainable development for future generations.

A Call for Immediate Action

After the devastating Wayanad landslides, Kerala has revised its proposal for Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs) in the Western Ghats. The revised plan calls for the

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A Cost-Effective Travel Option

A Cost-Effective Travel Option

Rapido is expanding its popular ride-hailing services by launching a pool taxi option for Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport. This new service is designed to reduce

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India’s Vision for an Equitable Climate Future

Fair Climate Action at COP29:

India’s participation at COP29 highlighted its role as a global leader in advocating for climate justice and equity. With a growing population and rapidly developing

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Meta Appeals Rs 213.14 Crore

Meta Appeals Rs 213.14 Crore

The CCI’s Fine: An Overview of the Decision On November 18, 2024, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) imposed a hefty fine of Rs 213.14

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The 2024 SCO summit in Islamabad represented a pivotal moment for India’s diplomatic engagement with regional partners. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s emphasis

Collaborative in international

During the recent SCO summit held in Islamabad, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered an impactful address that underscored the necessity for introspection and collective

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Asia Dominates with New Four Indian Cities

Asia Dominates with New

The Savills Growth Index 2024 has unveiled that Bengaluru, India, is leading the charge as the fastest-developing city in the world. This blog delves into

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2 Overview of the GTRI Report and Its Key Findings

Overview of the GTRI Report

The Surge of Chinese Imports and Its Impact on Indian MSMEs**  Indian Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are facing a tough battle against the

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A New Era for Overnight Train Travel

A New Era for Overnight Train Travel

On September 1, 2024, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw unveiled the highly anticipated Vande Bharat sleeper train prototype at the Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) facility

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