The 50th Anniversary of World Wetlands Day
The 50th anniversary of World Wetlands Day is being observed today. World Wetlands Day is celebrated every year on 2 February to commemorate the adoption of the Ramsar Convention in 1971. The day underscores the vital role of wetlands in biodiversity conservation, groundwater recharge, flood moderation, carbon sequestration, and livelihood support. Completing five decades, the Ramsar Convention reflects sustained global efforts toward the conservation and wise use of wetlands.
Inclusion of New Ramsar Sites in India
The Union Environment Minister has included Patna Bird Sanctuary and Chhari-Dhand Wetland in India’s list of Ramsar sites. Ramsar designation recognizes wetlands of international importance, particularly for their ecological value, migratory bird habitats, and role in maintaining hydrological balance. With continuous additions, India has emerged as one of the leading countries in Asia in terms of the number of Ramsar sites, reinforcing its commitment to global wetland conservation.
Operation Herof 2.0 in Balochistan
The Balochistan Liberation Army has launched Operation Herof 2.0 in Balochistan. The BLA is a separatist militant organization operating primarily in Pakistan’s Balochistan region. The operation highlights ongoing insurgency and security challenges in the region, often associated with opposition to state control and strategic infrastructure and development projects.
Bharat Ratna Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Advocate Training and Research Centre
The country’s first Bharat Ratna Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Advocate Training and Research Centre has been established. Named after B. R. Ambedkar, the centre aims to enhance professional legal training, promote legal research, and strengthen access to justice. It is expected to contribute significantly to improving the quality of advocacy and reinforcing constitutional and democratic values in India.
N-SHIP SPV for Mega Shipbuilding Cluster in Tamil Nadu
The Government of India has established a new Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) named N-SHIP to develop the country’s first mega shipbuilding cluster in Tamil Nadu. The initiative seeks to boost indigenous shipbuilding capacity, reduce import dependence, generate employment, and strengthen India’s maritime and defence manufacturing ecosystem. The project aligns with national objectives such as Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, aiming to position India as a global shipbuilding hub.
