Chapter D — Environment & Ecology

Coverage: 1 January 2025 – 3 June 2026 Sources: MoEFCC, PIB, NTCA, BEE, Press Information Bureau, UNFCCC, UNEP, IUCN, CITES, Ramsar Secretariat, IISD Earth Negotiations Bulletin, ORF, CSE, CEEW. Static link backbone: NCERT Class 11 Environment + Class 12 Biology (Ecosystems & Biodiversity); Shankar IAS Environment; India State of Forest Report 2023; MoEFCC Annual Report 2024-25.

Contents (35 Topics)

1. COP30 — Belém, Brazil (Nov 2025) — Mutirão decision & FRLD
2. India's updated NDC and Long-Term Low-Carbon Strategy (LT-LEDS)
3. Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) — GEI Target Rules notification, 8 Oct 2025
4. Green Credit Programme — revised methodology, August 2025
5. Mission LiFE — global outreach + Pro-Planet People
6. Ecomark Rules 2024 — operationalisation
7. India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023 — outcomes used in 2025
8. Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act 2023 — SC verdict 4 March 2025
9. Vanashakti judgement (16 May 2025) + Review (Sep 2025)
10. CITES CoP20 — Samarkand, Uzbekistan (24 Nov–5 Dec 2025)
11. Project Cheetah — Gandhi Sagar 2nd home; Nauradehi 3rd home; 53 cheetahs
12. New Tiger Reserves notified (Madhav, Ratapani, Veerangana Durgavati etc.)
13. International Big Cats Alliance (IBCA) — HQ India, ratified treaty status
14. Ramsar Sites — India crosses 91 sites (2025-26 additions)
15. Project Tiger — Tiger Census 2026 prep; All India Tiger Estimation
16. Project Lion + Asiatic Lion Census 2025 (16th)
17. Project Elephant — 17th Elephant Census (synchronised, 2025)
18. International Big Cats Alliance (IBCA) operational HQ inauguration
19. MISHTI — Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes
20. Cooling Action Plan & India Cooling Coalition
21. Plastic Waste Management — EPR portal, single-use plastic ban enforcement
22. Air Quality — GRAP, NCAP 2.0, Delhi cloud seeding (Aug 2025)
23. National Mission for a Green India (Green India Mission Revamp)
24. Western Ghats — Kasturirangan vs Gadgil; Draft ESA notification 2025
25. Great Nicobar Mega Project — environmental clearance & litigation
26. Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZ) — recent notifications
27. Wetland Conservation — Amrit Dharohar; Wetland Rules 2017 amendments
28. Species in News — Great Indian Bustard, Hangul, Olive Ridley, Gharial
29. Invasive Species — Lantana, African Catfish, Prosopis juliflora
30. BBNJ "High Seas" Treaty — India's status (signed Sep 2024)
31. Plastic Treaty INC-5.2 / INC-6 — Geneva, Aug 2025
32. Stockholm POPs / Basel / Rotterdam (BRS) Conventions — 2025 CoPs
33. IPCC AR7 cycle — India's contributions, AR6 finalisations
34. Coral Bleaching 2024-25 — 4th Global Mass Bleaching Event
35. Climate Litigation in India — MK Ranjitsinh v UoI follow-through

1. COP30 — Belém, Brazil (10–22 November 2025)

In Brief: 30th Conference of Parties to the UNFCCC, held in Belém (gateway to the Amazon) — branded the "Implementation COP". Adopted the Mutirão Decision (Portuguese for "collective effort").

• Why in News: First climate COP in the Amazon. Closed without a binding fossil-fuel phase-out roadmap; delivered finance and adaptation wins.
• Headline outcomes:
  • Mobilise USD 1.3 trillion/year by 2035 for climate action (extending NCQG of COP29 Baku).
  • Adaptation finance: double by 2025, triple by 2035 (against COP29 baseline of $40 bn/yr).
  • Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD) operational in start-up mode under Barbados Implementation Modalities; >USD 815 mn pledged by 19 Nov 2025; first replenishment cycle launches 2027; USD 250 mn first call.
  • Belém Mission to 1.5°C + Global Implementation Accelerator launched.
  • Tropical Forests Forever Facility (TFFF) flagship by Brazil — blended finance for standing forests (~USD 125 bn target).
  • Information-integrity pledge against climate disinformation.
• What was NOT achieved: No binding fossil-fuel phase-out roadmap; deforestation roadmap deferred; Article 6.4 baselines deferred.
• India's stand: Equity-based ambition; CBDR-RC reaffirmed; rejected linkages between climate finance and trade conditionalities (CBAM).
• Static link: UNFCCC 1992 (Rio); Paris Agreement (12 Dec 2015, in force 4 Nov 2016); Article 6 = market mechanisms; 6.2 = ITMOs (bilateral); 6.4 = centralised mechanism.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. COP30 Presidency: André Corrêa do Lago (Brazil)
  2. NDC Synthesis Report 2025: only ~64 countries had submitted updated NDCs by Sep 2025; covers ~30% of emissions
  3. New NCQG goal at Baku COP29 (2024) = USD 300 bn/year by 2035 to developing countries
  4. FRLD Board hosted by Philippines; interim hosting by World Bank
  5. COP31 host (2026) = Turkey (with Australia as President of negotiations after compromise deal)
• Trap areas: FRLD ≠ Adaptation Fund (separate). Don't confuse Loss & Damage Fund with Green Climate Fund (GCF, Songdo, Korea).
• One-line revision: COP30 Belém Nov 2025 = Mutirão decision; USD 1.3 tn finance goal by 2035; FRLD operational; no fossil phase-out roadmap; COP31 Turkey-Australia 2026.

2. India's Updated NDC and LT-LEDS

In Brief: India submitted its updated Nationally Determined Contributions (Aug 2022) and Long-Term Low-Emission Development Strategy (LT-LEDS) at COP27 Sharm El-Sheikh. India's NDC ambition trajectory was reaffirmed but not enhanced in 2025.

• NDC targets (2030):
  1. Reduce emissions intensity of GDP by 45% from 2005 levels (raised from 33-35%)
  2. 50% cumulative installed electricity capacity from non-fossil sources
  3. Create additional 2.5–3 GtCO₂e carbon sink through forest/tree cover
• Net Zero target: 2070 (announced at COP26 Glasgow Panchamrit, 1 Nov 2021).
• 2025 stocktake:
  • Non-fossil installed capacity crossed 49% by end-2025 (per CEA data); 50% target practically achieved 5 years ahead.
  • Emissions intensity reduced by ~36% from 2005 levels (per NDC submission analysis).
  • Forest carbon sink at ~2 GtCO₂e accumulated since 2005 baseline.
• Static link: Article 4 of Paris Agreement requires updated NDCs every 5 years. Next India update due 2025 → India indicated Sept 2025 deferral citing CBDR-RC.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. India is 3rd largest emitter in absolute terms, but among the lowest per-capita (~1.9 tCO₂)
  2. Panchamrit (5 commitments): 500 GW non-fossil by 2030, 50% energy from RE, reduce 1 bn tonnes CO₂ projected, 45% intensity cut, Net Zero 2070
  3. NDC implementation period: 1 Jan 2021 to 31 Dec 2030
• Trap areas: 500 GW = non-fossil capacity target; 50% = share of installed capacity target — both distinct.
• One-line revision: India's 2030 NDC = 45% intensity cut + 50% non-fossil capacity + 2.5–3 Gt sink; Net Zero 2070; 50% capacity practically met 2025.

3. Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) — Operational

In Brief: India's domestic emissions trading system. Greenhouse Gas Emission Intensity (GEI) Target Rules, 2025 notified in Gazette on 8 October 2025 by Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) — laying legally binding targets on 282 industrial units.

• Legal foundation: Energy Conservation (Amendment) Act, 2022 authorising CCTS; scheme notified 28 June 2023; detailed regulations adopted July 2024.
• Architecture:
  • Rate-based (intensity-based) baseline-and-credit ETS (not absolute cap)
  • 9 sectors covered: Aluminium, Cement, Chlor-Alkali, Pulp & Paper, Fertilisers, Iron & Steel, Petrochemicals, Petroleum Refineries, Textiles
  • ~800 entities in full coverage; first phase notification covered 282 units in 4 sectors (Aluminium, Cement, Chlor-Alkali, Pulp & Paper)
  • Baseline year: FY 2023-24
  • Compliance period: FY 2025-26 & FY 2026-27
  • Trading expected to commence: mid/late 2026
• Two parts of Indian Carbon Market (ICM):
  1. Compliance market — for obligated entities
  2. Voluntary offset mechanism — 8 methodologies approved March 2025 (RE, green hydrogen, mangrove afforestation, landfill methane, offshore wind, compressed biogas, energy efficiency, RE with storage)
• Governance: National Steering Committee for Indian Carbon Market (NSCICM); BEE is administrator; CERC as regulator; Grid Controller of India maintains registry.
• Penalty: 2× the price of carbon credits for missing targets + environmental compensation under EPA 1986.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. One CCC (Carbon Credit Certificate) = 1 tonne CO₂e reduced
  2. Initial 4 sectors notified: Aluminium, Cement, Chlor-Alkali, Pulp & Paper
  3. National Designated Authority (NDA) for CCTS established 2025
  4. India's CCTS is rate-based unlike EU ETS (cap-and-trade)
• Trap areas: CCTS ≠ EU CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, effective 1 Jan 2026). CCTS is domestic; CBAM is EU import tariff on carbon-intensive goods. CCTS is rate-based, not absolute-cap.
• One-line revision: CCTS = rate-based ETS; GEI Target Rules notified 8 Oct 2025; 282 plants in 4 sectors; trading from mid-2026; BEE-administered.

4. Green Credit Programme (GCP) — Revised August 2025

In Brief: Tradable market-based mechanism to reward positive environmental actions beyond carbon. Launched 12 October 2023 under Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Tree plantation modality revised on 29 August 2025.

• Administrator: Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), Dehradun.
• 8 sectors: Tree plantation, water conservation, sustainable agriculture, waste management, air pollution reduction, mangrove conservation & restoration, ecomark label development, sustainable building & infrastructure.
• Aug 2025 revisions (key change):
  • Outcome-based measurement: survival rates, canopy density tracked over 5 years
  • Non-tradable credits; usable only once — for CSR, ESG or compensatory afforestation obligations
  • Long-term verification (5 yrs) replaces tree-count quick metrics
• Process: Forest Department registers degraded land → digital "land bank" portal → entity (govt/PSU/private/individual) picks plot → afforestation undertaken → ICFRE verifies outcomes → credits issued.
• Linkage: Aligned with Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment).
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. GCP portal: moefcc-gcp.in
  2. First GCP modality notified 22 Feb 2024 (tree plantation); revised 29 Aug 2025
  3. GCP credits = non-tradable post Aug 2025, distinct from CCTS carbon credits (tradable)
• Trap areas: GCP ≠ CCTS. GCP is broader (environmental actions); CCTS is GHG-only. Post-2025 GCP credits cannot be sold.
• One-line revision: GCP = launched Oct 2023, EPA-1986; 8 sectors; ICFRE administrator; revised Aug 2025 — outcome-based, non-tradable.

5. Mission LiFE — Lifestyle for Environment

In Brief: Launched by PM Modi at COP26 Glasgow (1 Nov 2021); global launch at Kevadia 20 Oct 2022. Behavioural-change mass movement covering 7 themes.

• 7 themes: Save water, Save energy, Reduce waste, Reduce e-waste, Say no to single-use plastic, Sustainable food systems, Healthy lifestyles.
• 75 actions identified for individual adoption.
• Pro-Planet People (P3) concept = the LiFE archetype.
• Recent (2025-26): LiFE incorporated into G20 Outcome Document (Delhi 2023); referenced in COP30 Mutirão; integrated with Green Credit Programme.
• Static link: SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption & Production); UNEP partner.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. Launched at COP26 Glasgow (1 Nov 2021) as part of Panchamrit
  2. Global launch site: Statue of Unity, Kevadia, Gujarat (20 Oct 2022)
  3. Implementation lead: NITI Aayog + MoEFCC
• One-line revision: Mission LiFE = 7 themes, 75 actions, Pro-Planet People; launched COP26 Glasgow; global launch Kevadia Oct 2022.

6. Ecomark Rules 2024

In Brief: Ecomark Rules, 2024 notified by MoEFCC (Sept 2024) under EPA 1986, replacing the original 1991 scheme. Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the certifying authority.

• Logo: Earthen pot (existing logo retained).
• Operational from 2025: First certified products rolled out 2025-26.
• Scope: Voluntary eco-labelling for consumer products meeting environmental criteria during entire life cycle.
• Linkage: Integrated with GCP (ecomark label development is one of GCP's 8 sectors).
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. Original Ecomark Scheme: 1991
  2. New rules: Ecomark Rules, 2024
  3. Certifying authority: BIS (not BEE)
• One-line revision: Ecomark Rules 2024 by MoEFCC; BIS certifier; earthen-pot logo; operational from 2025.

7. India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023

In Brief: Biennial ISFR by Forest Survey of India (FSI), Dehradun. ISFR 2023 released 21 December 2024.

• Key numbers:
  • Total Forest & Tree Cover: 8,27,357 sq km = 25.17% of geographical area
  • Forest Cover: 7,15,343 sq km = 21.76%
  • Tree Cover: 1,12,014 sq km = 3.41%
  • Increase since ISFR 2021: Forest & Tree Cover up by 1,445 sq km
  • Mangrove cover: 4,991.68 sq km (decreased by 7.43 sq km — concerning)
• State leaders (forest cover %): Mizoram (85.32%), Lakshadweep (84.33%), A&N Islands (81.62%), Arunachal Pradesh (79.33%), Meghalaya (76%), Nagaland & Manipur & Tripura (~74%).
• State leaders (absolute area): Madhya Pradesh (largest forest area), Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Maharashtra.
• National Forest Policy target: 33% area under forest/tree cover (currently 25.17% — gap remains).
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. ISFR is biennial; first one 1987
  2. Mangrove decrease seen in Gujarat, A&N, Kerala (concerning)
  3. India's tree cover increased by ~1,289 sq km from 2021 to 2023
• Trap areas: "Forest Cover" = ≥1 hectare with ≥10% canopy (irrespective of legal status). "Recorded Forest Area (RFA)" = legal status. The two differ.
• One-line revision: ISFR 2023 = 25.17% forest + tree cover; +1,445 sq km; mangroves declined 7.4 sq km; target still 33%.

8. Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act 2023 — SC Verdict 4 March 2025

In Brief: Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam, 2023 = amendment to FCA 1980. Constitutional challenge decided by Supreme Court on 4 March 2025.

• What 2023 Amendment did:
  • Limited "forest" coverage to (a) lands notified as forest under Indian Forest Act 1927 OR (b) lands recorded as forest in govt records on or after 25 Oct 1980.
  • Exempted: land within 100 km of LAC/LoC/international border for strategic/national security projects; land for linear/security projects ≤10 ha; eco-tourism, zoos, safaris.
  • Lands changed to non-forest use before 12 Dec 1996 exempted.
• SC ruling (4 March 2025): Upheld the Godavarman Thirumulpad (1996) definition of forest — i.e., the dictionary meaning of forest must be applied irrespective of ownership or notification status. Directed States/UTs to identify all "deemed forests" via expert committees. In effect, restored pre-2023 scope to the extent any unrecorded "deemed forest" still qualifies as forest under the dictionary test.
• Petitioners: 13 retired civil servants + environmental NGOs.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. T.N. Godavarman v UoI (1996) = "continuing mandamus" + broad-meaning forest definition
  2. 2023 Amendment renamed Act to Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam
  3. SC verdict came on 4 March 2025 (Bench led by then-CJI Sanjiv Khanna)
• Trap areas: SC did not strike down the 2023 Amendment — it interpreted it harmoniously with Godavarman; "deemed forests" must still be protected.
• One-line revision: FCAA 2023 + SC ruling 4 Mar 2025 = Godavarman dictionary meaning upheld; deemed forests still protected; states must inventory them.

9. Vanashakti Judgement (16 May 2025) + Review

In Brief: SC bench (Justices A.S. Oka + Ujjal Bhuyan) on 16 May 2025 struck down 2017 Notification and 2021 OM that allowed ex post facto environmental clearances, holding the concept "anathema to Indian environmental jurisprudence." A Review petition later (Sept-Oct 2025) recalled the order, temporarily reinstating ex-post-facto clearances.

• Why in News: Major flip-flop on environmental clearance regime; widely criticised by environmental civil society.
• Background: EIA Notification 2006 mandates prior environmental clearance. In 2017 + 2021, govt issued notifications/OMs permitting violators to seek clearance after the fact.
• Vanashakti judgement (16 May 2025) — 2025 INSC 718 held:
  • Ex post facto EC violates Principle of Sustainable Development + Articles 14 & 21
  • Relied on Common Cause (2017), Alembic Pharmaceuticals (2020), Electrosteel (2023)
  • Demolished both 2017 notification and 2021 OM
• Review (recall): SC, in review, recalled the Vanashakti judgement, temporarily restoring ex-post-facto clearances. Bar associations and EPW editorialised against this as "demoting law to a suggestion."
• Static link: Environment (Protection) Act 1986; EIA Notification 2006 under Rule 5(3)(d) EPA Rules.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. EIA stages: Screening → Scoping → Public Consultation → Appraisal
  2. Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) and Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) — recommending bodies
  3. Parivesh portal = single-window environmental & forest clearance
• One-line revision: Vanashakti (16 May 2025) struck down post-facto EC; review recalled it Sep 2025 — ex-post-facto temporarily revived; EIA 2006 prior-EC rule contested.

10. CITES CoP20 — Samarkand, Uzbekistan (24 Nov–5 Dec 2025)

In Brief: 20th Conference of Parties to Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. First CITES CoP in Central Asia. 185 Parties, ~100 agenda items, 51 proposals to amend Appendices.

• Static base: CITES signed Washington DC, 3 Mar 1973; in force 1 July 1975. Secretariat: Geneva (administered by UNEP). India ratified 1976.
• Three Appendices:
  • I — Threatened with extinction; commercial trade banned (e.g., Tiger, Asiatic Lion, GIB)
  • II — Not threatened now but may become so; trade regulated
  • III — Protected by individual country requesting CITES help
• CoP20 Key Outcomes:
  • Saiga antelope — Kazakhstan's proposal to reopen horn trade defeated
  • Pangolins (Asian) — strengthened domestic market closure call to China
  • Vaquita porpoise — totoaba maw trafficking measures strengthened
  • Asian big cats — captive-breeding facilities scrutinised
  • Sharks & rays — additional listings on Appendix II
  • Indian species: No major Indian proposals; India supported strict pangolin protection
• India hosted side events on tiger conservation + IBCA.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. CITES is legally binding; HQ Geneva
  2. CITES Secretariat administered by UNEP (not by CBD)
  3. CoP21 = 2028
  4. Indian Pangolin in Appendix I (uplisted CoP17, 2016)
• Trap areas: CITES ≠ CBD (Convention on Biological Diversity, Rio 1992; secretariat Montreal). CITES ≠ CMS (Convention on Migratory Species, Bonn 1979).
• One-line revision: CITES CoP20 Samarkand Nov-Dec 2025; 185 parties; saiga horn trade defeated; CoP21 in 2028.

11. Project Cheetah — Gandhi Sagar, Nauradehi, 53 Cheetahs

In Brief: Project Cheetah launched 17 September 2022 at Kuno NP (MP) — world's first intercontinental large carnivore translocation. As of March 2026, India hosts 53 cheetahs.

• Key milestones (2025-26):
  • 20 April 2025: 2 cheetahs shifted from Kuno → Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary (Mandsaur-Neemuch, MP) — second home
  • November 2025: Mukhi (first India-born cheetah) delivered 5 cubs
  • 13 December 2025: MP Cabinet cleared Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary as third home — but Nauradehi was earlier notified as Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve (2023), raising cheetah-tiger coexistence question
  • 9 March 2026: Namibian cheetah Jwala delivered her 3rd India litter (5 cubs) — total cheetahs crossed 53
  • 13 March 2026: 9 cheetahs from Botswana arrived at Kuno — adding new range country
• Implementing body: National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) under MoEFCC.
• Cheetah Project Steering Committee (constituted May 2023) approves translocations.
• Target: Metapopulation of 60–70 cheetahs across Kuno-Gandhi Sagar landscape (MP+Rajasthan).
• Background: Cheetahs declared extinct in India in 1952.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. Kuno NP = Sheopur district, MP (originally proposed for Asiatic Lion translocation from Gir)
  2. Source populations: Namibia, South Africa, Botswana
  3. Cheetah is fastest land animal; IUCN Vulnerable; CITES Appendix I
  4. Nauradehi = MP's largest tiger reserve (Veerangana Durgavati TR, 2023)
• Trap areas: Project Cheetah is NTCA-run (not WII alone). Cheetah is in Schedule I of WPA 1972 (after 2022 amendment).
• One-line revision: Project Cheetah Sep 2022; Kuno → Gandhi Sagar (Apr 2025) → Nauradehi (Dec 2025); 53 cheetahs by Mar 2026; 9 Botswana cheetahs added.

12. New Tiger Reserves (2025-26)

In Brief: India has 58 Tiger Reserves as of June 2026 (after recent additions). NTCA notifies; State Government declares.

• Recently notified (2023-26 cumulative):
  • Veerangana Durgavati TR (MP, 2023) — Nauradehi + Rani Durgavati WLS combined
  • Dholpur-Karauli TR (Rajasthan, 2023) — 5th TR of Rajasthan
  • Ratapani TR (MP, December 2024) — MP's 8th TR; near Bhopal
  • Madhav TR (MP, March 2025) — MP's 9th TR; Shivpuri district
  • Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla TR (Chhattisgarh, Nov 2024) — Chhattisgarh's 4th TR; India's 3rd-largest
• India tiger population: 3,682 (AITE 2022 — 5th cycle). All India Tiger Estimation 2026 (6th cycle) underway.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. NTCA is statutory body under WPA 1972 (after 2006 amendment) + Project Tiger umbrella
  2. First 9 Tiger Reserves under Project Tiger (1973): Bandipur, Corbett, Kanha, Manas, Melghat, Palamau, Ranthambore, Similipal, Sundarbans
  3. Madhya Pradesh has the most Tiger Reserves (9) and tigers (785+)
  4. Project Tiger launched 1 April 1973
• Trap areas: Tiger Reserve = legal status under WPA 1972 § 38V. Different from National Park / Sanctuary.
• One-line revision: India has ~58 Tiger Reserves; recent additions: Veerangana Durgavati, Ratapani, Madhav, Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla, Dholpur-Karauli; tiger count 3,682.

13. International Big Cats Alliance (IBCA)

In Brief: IBCA launched by PM Modi on 9 April 2023 at Project Tiger 50-year celebrations (Mysuru). Cabinet approved IBCA's establishment with HQ in India in February 2024, with corpus of ₹150 crore for 2023-28.

• 7 big cats covered: Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, Puma.
• Treaty status: Framework Agreement signed by India + Liberia + 4 others — entered into force 23 January 2025 (5 ratifications threshold met).
• Founding members include: Bangladesh, Bhutan, Liberia, Eritrea, India, Nicaragua, Somalia, others.
• Secretariat: HQ in India (New Delhi); MoEFCC nodal.
• First IBCA Assembly: held in 2025.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. India contributed USD 100 mn corpus seed funding
  2. IBCA framework agreement entered into force 23 January 2025
  3. 96 big cat-range countries initially invited
• Trap areas: IBCA ≠ Global Tiger Forum (existing, HQ Delhi too). IBCA covers 7 species; GTF only tigers.
• One-line revision: IBCA = 7 big cats; HQ India; framework agreement in force 23 Jan 2025; ₹150 cr (2023-28).

14. Ramsar Sites — India's Wetlands of International Importance

In Brief: Ramsar Convention 1971 (Iran). India crossed 91 Ramsar sites in 2025-26 — highest in Asia, 3rd globally (after UK and Mexico).

• Recent additions (2025-26): New sites notified in March 2025 (4 new sites) and February 2026 (additional) taking tally past 90.
• Largest Ramsar site in India: Sundarbans (West Bengal) — 4,23,000 ha.
• Smallest: Renuka Lake (Himachal Pradesh) — 20 ha.
• First Ramsar sites in India: Chilika Lake (Odisha) + Keoladeo NP (Rajasthan) — designated 1981.
• Tamil Nadu has the most Ramsar sites among Indian states (~18).
• Montreux Record (degraded sites): Loktak (Manipur) and Keoladeo (Rajasthan) are India's two sites on the Montreux Record.
• Static link: Ramsar Convention adopted 2 February 1971, Ramsar (Iran); in force 1975. World Wetlands Day = 2 February.
• 2025 World Wetlands Day theme: "Protecting wetlands for our common future".
• Amrit Dharohar: Initiative launched 2023 to conserve all Ramsar sites; in 75-week implementation cycle 2023-25.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. India has 91+ Ramsar sites as of 2026 (verify exact via PIB)
  2. Ramsar Secretariat: Gland, Switzerland (alongside IUCN)
  3. India is also part of the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) + CBD
• Trap areas: Ramsar Convention covers all wetlands (not just inland); also estuaries, coral reefs.
• One-line revision: India = 91 Ramsar sites; Sundarbans largest; Renuka smallest; Loktak + Keoladeo on Montreux Record; World Wetlands Day 2 Feb.

15. Project Tiger + 6th All India Tiger Estimation (AITE 2026)

In Brief: Project Tiger launched 1 April 1973 (Jim Corbett NP). 50-year celebrations at Mysuru, April 2023. 6th cycle AITE underway 2025-26, results expected late 2026.

• Methodology: Camera-trap based; uses MSTrIPES + M-STrIPES Ecological app; pugmark earlier (deprecated).
• 5th cycle (AITE 2022): Released July 2023 → 3,682 tigers (range 3,167–3,925); India hosts >70% of world's wild tigers.
• Top tiger states: MP (785), Karnataka (563), Uttarakhand (560), Maharashtra (444), Tamil Nadu (306).
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. AITE cycle = every 4 years
  2. WII (Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun) is the technical lead
  3. Global Tiger Day = 29 July (set at St Petersburg Summit 2010)
• One-line revision: Project Tiger Apr 1973; 5th AITE 2022 = 3,682 tigers; 6th AITE in 2026; India >70% of wild tigers.

16. Project Lion + 16th Asiatic Lion Census 2025

In Brief: 16th Asiatic Lion Population Estimation released June 2025 by Gujarat Forest Dept — 891 lions in Gir landscape (up from 674 in 2020 — 32% increase).

• Project Lion: Approved by Cabinet March 2025, total outlay ₹2,927 crore (Phase-I 2025-26 to 2029-30). Lead site: Gir + adjoining areas in Saurashtra.
• Distribution: Lions spread across 9 districts of Gujarat (incl. Junagadh, Gir Somnath, Amreli, Bhavnagar, Rajkot).
• Static link: Barda Wildlife Sanctuary identified as second home for Asiatic Lion (long-pending Kuno alternative).
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. Asiatic Lion (Panthera leo persica) — IUCN Endangered; CITES App-I
  2. Project Lion = MoEFCC scheme (not just Gujarat)
  3. Census conducted every 5 years; uses block-count + direct sighting + camera traps
• Trap areas: Asiatic Lion is only found in Gir (Gujarat); not in any other Indian state. Kuno was earlier intended as alternative home (now hosts cheetahs).
• One-line revision: Asiatic Lion Census 16th (Jun 2025) = 891 lions; Project Lion approved Mar 2025, ₹2,927 cr; Barda WLS = 2nd home.

17. Project Elephant + 17th Elephant Census (Synchronised, 2025)

In Brief: Project Elephant launched 1992. 17th All-India Elephant Population Estimation 2025 released in two regions: South India report (Aug 2025), full national report pending (2026).

• South Indian estimate (Aug 2025): ~12,449 elephants in Southern States (Karnataka, Kerala, TN, AP, Maharashtra); Karnataka leads with 6,395.
• Earlier all-India 2017 estimate: 27,312 elephants.
• MIKE Programme: Monitoring the Illegal Killing of Elephants (CITES MIKE) — India has 10 MIKE sites.
• Static link: Elephant is National Heritage Animal of India (2010). 32 Elephant Reserves notified.
• Project Elephant Directorate: under MoEFCC.
• World Elephant Day = 12 August.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. Asian Elephant (Elephas maximus) — IUCN Endangered; CITES App-I; WPA Schedule I
  2. Largest Asian Elephant population is in India
  3. Gaj Yatra awareness campaign by MoEFCC
• One-line revision: 17th Elephant Census 2025 (synchronised) — South India 12,449; total ~27,000+; National Heritage Animal since 2010.

18. IBCA — HQ Inauguration & Operationalisation

Cross-reference Topic 13. Operational HQ inaugurated 2025; Secretariat staffed and First IBCA Assembly held; founding members ratified Framework Agreement.

• First IBCA Assembly (2025): Adopted Strategic Plan 2025-30 with 5 pillars: knowledge sharing; capacity building; eco-tourism; expert exchange; finance mobilisation.
• Director General: Indian Forest Service officer designated (announced 2025).
• One-line revision: IBCA HQ operational 2025 in Delhi; Strategic Plan 2025-30 adopted at First Assembly.

19. MISHTI — Mangrove Initiative

In Brief: Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI) announced in Union Budget 2023-24; operational since 2023-24.

• Target: Restore mangroves across 540 sq km in 9 States + 3 UTs by 2028.
• Funding model: CAMPA + MGNREGA + Coastal Regulation Zone provisions convergence.
• 2025-26: ~150 sq km restored cumulatively (per PIB).
• Why important: ISFR 2023 showed mangrove cover decreased by 7.43 sq km; MISHTI is the policy response.
• Linkage: Mangrove afforestation/restoration is also one of CCTS voluntary methodologies (Mar 2025).
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. Mangroves act as carbon sinks (blue carbon) + storm-surge buffer
  2. Sundarbans (WB) = largest mangrove ecosystem
  3. India's mangrove cover: 4,991.68 sq km (ISFR 2023)
  4. MISHTI is anchored in MoEFCC; CSR via private sector also leveraged
• One-line revision: MISHTI = 540 sq km mangrove restoration target by 2028; 9 States + 3 UTs; CAMPA+MGNREGA funded.

20. Cooling Action Plan & India Cooling Coalition

In Brief: India Cooling Action Plan (ICAP) released March 2019 — first such plan globally with 20-year vision.

• Targets (by 2037-38):
  • Reduce cooling demand by 20-25%
  • Reduce refrigerant demand by 25-30%
  • Reduce cooling energy requirements by 25-40%
  • Recognise "access to cooling" as a development priority
• Linkage: Kigali Amendment (2016) to Montreal Protocol — ratified by India 27 September 2021; phase-down of HFCs.
• 2025-26 updates: India operationalised refrigerant management; HFC-23 cleanup at fluorochemical plants completed.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. Montreal Protocol (1987) — Vienna Convention (1985) parent
  2. India ratified Montreal Protocol in 1992; Kigali Amendment in 2021
  3. Kigali Amendment — India to phase-down HFCs from 2032 (Group III)
• One-line revision: ICAP launched Mar 2019; first national CAP globally; 20-yr horizon; Kigali Amendment ratified 2021; HFC phase-down from 2032.

21. Plastic Waste Management — EPR Portal + SUP Ban

In Brief: Single-Use Plastic Ban enforced from 1 July 2022 under Plastic Waste Management Rules 2016 (as amended). EPR Portal for plastic packaging operational since 2022; expanded enforcement 2025-26.

• Plastic Waste (Management) Amendment Rules, 2024: Released draft 2024; finalised early 2025. Tightened EPR obligations.
• EPR Categories: Rigid plastic packaging, flexible packaging, multi-layered plastic, compostable plastic.
• 2025-26 enforcement: CPCB launched audits; fines on FMCG majors for false EPR certificates.
• Beat Plastic Pollution Campaign: World Environment Day 2025 theme.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. EPR = Extended Producer Responsibility — producer responsible for end-of-life
  2. CPCB = Central Pollution Control Board (statutory under Water Act 1974)
  3. India committed at UNEA-5.2 (2022) to negotiate Global Plastic Treaty
• Trap areas: SUP ban list includes plastic stirrers, cutlery, balloons, polystyrene decorations — NOT all multi-layer packaging.
• One-line revision: SUP ban from 1 Jul 2022; EPR portal CPCB-run; PWM Amendment 2024/25; FMCG audits ongoing.

22. Air Quality — GRAP, NCAP 2.0, Cloud Seeding

In Brief: Delhi-NCR pollution continued to dominate winters. GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) under CAQM invoked multiple times Oct 2025–Feb 2026. Delhi conducted first cloud-seeding trial 28 August 2025 (IIT Kanpur led).

• CAQM (Commission for Air Quality Management): Statutory body for NCR + adjoining areas, established 2021 (Ordinance) → Act 2021.
• GRAP Stages I–IV based on AQI.
• NCAP (National Clean Air Programme, 2019): Originally 131 cities; revised target NCAP 2.0 — 40% reduction in PM2.5/PM10 from 2019-20 baseline by 2025-26.
• 2025 updates:
  • Cloud seeding trial 28 Aug 2025 over Delhi
  • ₹9,585 cr scheme approved (May 2026) to replace polluting commercial vehicles in Delhi-NCR
  • PUC 2.0 norms
  • Stubble burning declined ~30% in Punjab/Haryana (per CSE)
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. AQI categories: Good (0-50), Satisfactory (51-100), Moderate (101-200), Poor (201-300), Very Poor (301-400), Severe (401+)
  2. SAFAR = System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (IITM Pune); merged with IMD's air quality portal 2024
  3. PRANA portal for NCAP monitoring
  4. National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) — last revised 2009
• One-line revision: Delhi cloud seeding 28 Aug 2025; GRAP via CAQM; NCAP 2.0 targets 40% PM reduction by 2025-26; vehicle scrappage ₹9,585 cr.

23. Green India Mission (GIM) — Revamp

In Brief: GIM (one of 8 missions under National Action Plan on Climate Change, 2008) revamped 2025. New target: increase forest/tree cover by 5 mn ha + improve quality of cover on another 5 mn ha by 2030.

• NAPCC Missions (8): Solar, Enhanced Energy Efficiency, Sustainable Habitat, Water, Sustaining Himalayan Ecosystem, Green India, Sustainable Agriculture, Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change.
• GIM 2025 revamp budget: ~₹1,000 cr additional outlay.
• Convergence: With CAMPA (Compensatory Afforestation Fund), MGNREGA, Green Credit Programme.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. NAPCC launched 30 June 2008
  2. PMs Council on Climate Change is apex body (re-constituted 2014)
  3. State Action Plans on Climate Change (SAPCCs) for all 28 states + 8 UTs
• One-line revision: GIM revamp 2025 = 5 mn ha new + 5 mn ha quality improvement by 2030; 1 of 8 NAPCC missions (2008).

24. Western Ghats — Kasturirangan / Gadgil / Draft ESA 2025

In Brief: 6th draft Eco-Sensitive Area (ESA) notification for Western Ghats issued by MoEFCC 31 July 2024 (updated 2025) — covering 56,825 sq km (~37% of WG) across 6 states (Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Goa, Kerala, TN).

• Background:
  • Gadgil Committee (2011): ~75% of WG as ESA; activity-restrictive
  • Kasturirangan Committee (2013): 37% of WG as ESA; more development-friendly
  • 5 drafts issued (2014, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2022) all lapsed
• 2024-25 draft: Largely follows Kasturirangan; banned mining, quarrying, sand-mining, thermal plants, red-category industries.
• Why renewed: Wayanad landslides (July 2024) — ~400 dead — reinforced urgency.
• Final notification: Pending as of mid-2026 (state consultations ongoing).
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. Western Ghats = UNESCO World Heritage Site (2012); 39 properties in serial nomination
  2. Western Ghats = one of 4 biodiversity hotspots in India (Himalaya, Indo-Burma, Sundaland-Nicobar, Western Ghats)
  3. ~6 states + 188 talukas covered
• One-line revision: Western Ghats ESA draft 2024-25 = 56,825 sq km (Kasturirangan-aligned); Wayanad landslides triggered renewal; final notification pending.

25. Great Nicobar Mega Project — EC & Litigation

In Brief: Great Nicobar Holistic Development Project (~₹81,000 cr) by NITI Aayog: international container transhipment port at Galathea Bay, international airport, township, gas/diesel power plant. EC granted by MoEFCC.

• 2025 developments:
  • National Green Tribunal (NGT) continues to hear challenges
  • High-Powered Committee review report pending
  • 130 tribal hamlets of Shompen and Great Andamanese (Nicobarese) affected
  • Concerns: Leatherback Turtle nesting site at Galathea; ~13 lakh trees diversion; seismic Zone V (2004 tsunami zone)
• Project area: 130.75 sq km.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. Shompen = PVTG (Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group), 250-400 in number, contact-averse
  2. Galathea Bay previously denotified as Wildlife Sanctuary (2021)
  3. Project on Great Nicobar Island — southernmost India, near Indira Point (6°N)
• One-line revision: Great Nicobar Project = ₹81k cr; Galathea Bay ICTP; Shompen/Nicobarese affected; NGT litigation ongoing.

26. Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZ)

In Brief: Areas surrounding National Parks + Wildlife Sanctuaries notified as ESZs under EPA 1986 → buffer/transition zones with regulated activities. SC order (3 June 2022): mandatory 1 km ESZ around all PAs; later modified.

• 2025 update: SC in K. Krishnamoorthy v UoI (2024) modified the 1 km rule — accepting site-specific ESZ notifications.
• Recently notified ESZs (2025-26):
  • Ratapani TR ESZ; Madhav NP ESZ; Asola Bhatti WLS revised; Manas TR ESZ revision
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. ESZ activities classified: Prohibited / Regulated / Permitted
  2. ESZs notified by MoEFCC on state proposal
• One-line revision: ESZ = buffer around PAs under EPA 1986; SC 1-km order modified 2024 for site-specific; multiple new ESZs notified 2025-26.

27. Wetland Conservation — Amrit Dharohar + Wetland Rules

In Brief: Amrit Dharohar Initiative launched 5 June 2023 (World Environment Day) by MoEFCC — 3-year cycle 2023-25 to conserve Ramsar sites.

• Wetlands (Conservation & Management) Rules, 2017 govern conservation. State Wetland Authority (SWA) for each state.
• Sahbhagita Guidelines — community wetland conservation.
• 2025-26: Amrit Dharohar 2.0 launched (extension to 2028).
• National Wetland CMP Portal — atlas of 2,42,000+ wetlands mapped by Space Applications Centre (SAC), Ahmedabad.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. Wetlands cover ~4.7% of India's land area
  2. MoEFCC, not MoJS, is nodal for wetland conservation
• One-line revision: Amrit Dharohar 2023; Wetland Rules 2017; SAC mapped 2.42 lakh wetlands; 91+ Ramsar sites.

28. Species in News (2025-26)

Compact dossier:

• One-line revision: GIB SC verdict 2024; Snow Leopard 718 (SPAI 2024); Hangul 289 (2024); India's only Dugong Reserve in Palk Bay.

29. Invasive Species

Top 4 in India (per 2024 Indian Council of Forestry Research data):

1. Lantana camara — covers ~5.5 lakh sq km of tiger habitat; "World's Worst Weed"
2. Prosopis juliflora (Mesquite) — Gujarat, Rajasthan; depletes groundwater
3. Parthenium hysterophorus (Congress grass) — allergenic
4. African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) — banned but spreading
5. Senna spectabilis — Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary major threat
6. Mikania micrantha — Northeast India

• Lantana Management Scheme: ₹1,500+ cr allocated 2024-25; involves manual uprooting via JFMCs.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. National Invasive Alien Species Strategy drafted 2024
  2. CBD Aichi Target 9 → KMGBF Target 6 covers invasives
• One-line revision: Top invasives: Lantana, Prosopis, Parthenium, Senna, African Catfish, Mikania; Lantana removal scheme ₹1,500+ cr.

30. BBNJ "High Seas" Treaty

In Brief: Agreement under UNCLOS on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) — adopted 19 June 2023 at UN General Assembly. India signed 25 September 2024 (UNGA). Ratification pending.

• Coverage: ~64% of the global ocean (high seas + International Seabed Area).
• 4 pillars: MGRs (marine genetic resources) + benefit sharing; ABMTs (Area-based Management Tools incl. MPAs); EIAs; capacity building & tech transfer.
• Entry into force: Needs 60 ratifications; ~80 had signed by 2025; ~30 ratified by Jun 2026.
• Parent: UNCLOS (1982) — Montego Bay Convention.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. Also called High Seas Treaty
  2. Negotiated under UNGA Resolution 72/249 (2017)
  3. India signed but not ratified as of Jun 2026
• One-line revision: BBNJ Treaty adopted 19 Jun 2023; India signed 25 Sep 2024; needs 60 ratifications; covers ~64% of oceans.

31. Plastic Treaty — INC Sessions

In Brief: Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) mandated by UNEA-5.2 (March 2022) to negotiate a legally binding instrument on plastic pollution by end-2024 (extended).

• Session timeline:
  • INC-1 (Punta del Este, Nov 2022); INC-2 (Paris, May 2023); INC-3 (Nairobi, Nov 2023); INC-4 (Ottawa, Apr 2024)
  • INC-5 (Busan, Nov-Dec 2024) — failed to conclude
  • INC-5.2 (Geneva, Aug 2025) — also did not finalise treaty
  • INC-6 (likely 2026) — continuation expected
• Key fault line: Like-minded petro-states (Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iran) vs High Ambition Coalition (HAC) — India in middle ground.
• India's stand: Supports plastic waste action but opposes production caps; emphasises CBDR-RC.
• One-line revision: Plastic Treaty INC-5.2 Geneva Aug 2025 inconclusive; INC-6 in 2026; India opposes production caps.

32. BRS Conventions — 2025 CoPs

In Brief: Basel-Rotterdam-Stockholm joint CoP 2025 held April-May 2025, Geneva.

• Three Conventions:
  1. Basel (1989) — Hazardous waste transboundary movement
  2. Rotterdam (1998) — Prior Informed Consent for hazardous chemicals
  3. Stockholm (2001) — Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)
• 2025 outcomes:
  • 3 new POPs added to Stockholm Annex A (banned): UV-328, Chlorpyrifos, LC-PFCAs
  • Basel: stricter controls on e-waste transboundary movement
  • Rotterdam: PIC listings strengthened for paraquat
• Static link: All 3 administered by UNEP Secretariat, Geneva.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. India is party to all three
  2. Stockholm 12 "Dirty Dozen" POPs → expanded multiple times
  3. Minamata Convention (2013) on mercury — separate
• One-line revision: BRS CoPs Geneva Apr-May 2025; 3 new POPs added; e-waste tightened in Basel; India party to all.

33. IPCC AR7 Cycle + AR6 Finalisation

In Brief: Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change AR6 Synthesis Report (Mar 2023) closed AR6 cycle. AR7 cycle (2024-2029) launched; Bureau elected.

• AR7 timeline: WG-I/II/III reports by 2028-29; Synthesis 2029. Special Report on Cities and Climate Change — to be released 2027.
• AR7 Chair: Jim Skea (UK) — elected 2023; Vice-Chair from India: Confirmed.
• 2025 developments:
  • First lead author meetings for AR7 WGs held 2025
  • India proposed dedicated chapter on Equity & Climate Justice
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. IPCC established 1988 by WMO + UNEP
  2. Three Working Groups: WG-I (Physical Science), WG-II (Impacts/Adaptation), WG-III (Mitigation)
  3. AR6 SR (Mar 2023) said 1.5°C will be breached in early-2030s
• One-line revision: IPCC AR7 cycle 2024-29; Jim Skea Chair; Cities SR in 2027; India proposed equity chapter.

34. 4th Global Mass Coral Bleaching Event (2023-25)

In Brief: NOAA + ICRI declared 4th Global Mass Bleaching Event in April 2024; continued through 2025. Earlier events: 1998, 2010, 2014-17.

• Impact: 84% of world's reefs affected by Mar 2025 — most extensive ever.
• India: Lakshadweep + Andaman corals severely affected; Gulf of Mannar moderate.
• Causes: Sea Surface Temperature anomalies linked to El Niño 2023-24 + sustained climate warming.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. Coral bleaching = expulsion of zooxanthellae (symbiotic algae)
  2. India's 4 major reef areas: Gulf of Mannar, Gulf of Kachchh, Lakshadweep, Andaman & Nicobar
  3. ICRI = International Coral Reef Initiative (1994)
• One-line revision: 4th Global Mass Coral Bleaching declared Apr 2024; 84% of reefs affected by Mar 2025; India's Lakshadweep + ANI hit hard.

35. Climate Litigation in India — MK Ranjitsinh & After

In Brief: MK Ranjitsinh Jhala v Union of India (21 March 2024) — Supreme Court recognised Right against adverse effects of climate change as part of Article 14 + 21 of the Constitution.

• Context of case: GIB protection — overhead transmission lines in Thar (Rajasthan/Gujarat) killing birds. SC initially ordered undergrounding; March 2024 ruling balanced bird protection with India's solar push.
• 2025-26 follow-through:
  • Expert Committee appointed by SC operationalised
  • Underground/bird-diverter mandate for specific corridors in GIB priority habitat
  • Right to clean environment invoked in multiple HC cases (Delhi pollution, mining)
• Significance: First time a fundamental right against climate change harms recognised in India.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. Case: Writ Petition (Civil) No. 838 of 2019
  2. Bench: CJI D.Y. Chandrachud + Justices J.B. Pardiwala + Manoj Misra
  3. Articles invoked: 14 + 21 (read with 48A + 51A(g))
• One-line revision: MK Ranjitsinh (21 Mar 2024) = right against climate change harms under Art 14+21; GIB protection vs solar transmission; follow-up via Expert Committee.

Prelims Facts Strip — Chapter D (Memorise)

Chapter D — 15 UPSC-Standard MCQs

Q1. Consider the following statements regarding COP30 (Belém, November 2025):

1. The conference produced a binding roadmap for phasing out fossil fuels.
2. The Mutirão Decision committed to mobilising USD 1.3 trillion per year by 2035.
3. The Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage became operational under the Barbados Implementation Modalities.

Which of the above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Explanation: COP30 did not produce a binding fossil-fuel phase-out roadmap.

Q2. With reference to India's Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS), consider the following:

1. It is a rate-based emissions trading system.
2. It is administered by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency under the Ministry of Power.
3. The first set of legally binding GEI targets was notified on 8 October 2025 for four sectors.

Which are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Q3. Which one of the following is not among the four sectors covered in the first GEI Target notification under CCTS? (a) Aluminium (b) Cement (c) Iron & Steel (d) Pulp & Paper

Q4. Consider the following about the Green Credit Programme:

1. It was launched under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
2. Post-August 2025 revisions, green credits are tradable across compliance markets.
3. The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education is the Administrator.

Which are correct? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 2 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Explanation: Post-Aug 2025, green credits are non-tradable, usable only once for CSR/ESG/compensatory afforestation.

Q5. According to India State of Forest Report 2023, India's total forest and tree cover is approximately: (a) 21.76% of geographical area (b) 25.17% of geographical area (c) 33.00% of geographical area (d) 19.50% of geographical area

Q6. With reference to Project Cheetah, consider the following:

1. Cheetahs in India have been sourced from Namibia, South Africa and Botswana.
2. The Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary is in Madhya Pradesh.
3. Project Cheetah is implemented by the Wildlife Institute of India.

Which are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Explanation: Project Cheetah is implemented by NTCA under MoEFCC (WII provides technical support).

Q7. Consider the following Tiger Reserves and their States:

1. Ratapani Tiger Reserve — Madhya Pradesh
2. Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve — Chhattisgarh
3. Guru Ghasidas–Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve — Chhattisgarh
4. Dholpur–Karauli Tiger Reserve — Rajasthan

How many pairs are correctly matched? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four

Explanation: Veerangana Durgavati TR is in Madhya Pradesh, not Chhattisgarh.

Q8. The International Big Cats Alliance (IBCA):

1. Covers seven species: tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar and puma.
2. Has its headquarters in India.
3. Came into force as a treaty on 23 January 2025.

Which are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Q9. With reference to the Supreme Court's verdict on the Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act, 2023 (delivered 4 March 2025): (a) The Court struck down the entire Amendment Act. (b) The Court upheld the Godavarman (1996) dictionary meaning of forest, restoring protection to "deemed forests". (c) The Court held that linear projects within 100 km of international borders are unconstitutional. (d) The Court remitted the matter back to Parliament.

Q10. Consider the following about the Vanashakti judgement (May 2025):

1. It struck down the 2017 notification and 2021 Office Memorandum permitting ex post facto environmental clearances.
2. It was subsequently recalled in a Review by the Supreme Court.
3. It relied on the principle that ex post facto clearance is antithetical to the EIA Notification 2006.

Which are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Q11. Which of the following are correctly matched (Ramsar Site — State)?

1. Loktak Lake — Manipur
2. Keoladeo National Park — Madhya Pradesh
3. Chilika Lake — Odisha
4. Renuka Lake — Himachal Pradesh

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Explanation: Keoladeo NP is in Rajasthan, not MP.

Q12. Consider the following statements about the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme and the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM):

1. CCTS is a domestic compliance mechanism while CBAM is a border tariff on carbon-intensive imports.
2. CBAM became effective on 1 January 2026.
3. India's CCTS is a cap-and-trade system identical in design to the EU ETS.

Which are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Explanation: CCTS is rate-based / baseline-and-credit, not cap-and-trade.

Q13. The Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol primarily targets: (a) Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) (b) Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) (c) Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) (d) Sulphur hexafluoride (SF₆)

Q14. The MK Ranjitsinh Jhala v Union of India (March 2024) ruling is significant because it: (a) Allowed underground transmission lines across all of Rajasthan. (b) Recognised the right against adverse effects of climate change as part of Articles 14 and 21. (c) Banned all renewable energy installations in critical wildlife habitats. (d) Created a new constitutional fundamental duty.

Q15. Consider the following pairs:

1. BBNJ Agreement — Conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity beyond national jurisdiction
2. Basel Convention — Transboundary movement of hazardous wastes
3. Stockholm Convention — Prior Informed Consent for chemicals
4. Rotterdam Convention — Persistent Organic Pollutants

How many pairs are correctly matched? (a) Only two (b) Only three (c) All four (d) Only one

Explanation: Stockholm = POPs; Rotterdam = PIC. The list has them swapped (pairs 3 and 4 are wrong); pairs 1 and 2 are correct.

End of Chapter D — Environment & Ecology Next chapter: E — Science & Technology