The Niyamgiri Hills in Odisha, home to the Dongria Kondh tribe, are under threat due to proposed amendments to the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. These changes could potentially compromise the tribe’s ancestral lands and cultural identity. The Dongria Kondh tribe is one of 13 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in Odisha, India.
Facing a Potential Threat: The Dongria Kondh Tribe
The proposed Forest Conservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023, intends to modify the definition of ‘forest’ as set by the Supreme Court of India in 1996. As per the amendment, the Forest Conservation Act, 2023, will solely apply to ‘forest’ areas that have been notified according to the Indian Forest Act, 1927, and government records dating from October 25, 1980, and beyond. Nearly 95% of Niyamgiri land isn’t classified as ‘forest’ according to government documents. This change could potentially allow the redirection of non-forest classified land for other purposes, impacting the Niyamgiri hill range and other forested regions in Odisha.
The Astonishing revival of 46,000-Year-Old Worms and Insights into Cryptobiosis
Scientists have discovered two microscopic nematodes frozen in Siberian permafrost and managed to revive them – a significant achievement considering these worms are 46,000 years old. Cryptobiosis, a state of extreme life suspension in response to harsh environmental conditions, allowed these ancient organisms to halt all metabolic processes, including reproduction, development, and repair, and survive in a dormant state akin to being between life and death. This study has broadened our understanding of cryptobiosis and its implications on evolution and species adaptation, especially in the context of climate change.
Efficiency Enhancement with the Nyaya Vikas Portal
The Union Minister of Law and Justice provided key insights into the workings of the Nyaya Vikas Portal during a written response in the Lok Sabha. Developed by the National Remote Sensing Centre of ISRO, Nyaya Vikas is an online system designed to monitor infrastructure projects related to the judiciary effectively. The portal and its mobile app, launched in 2018, use space technology for real-time monitoring, marking a significant step in judicial reforms.
World Nature Conservation Day: Aligning Mission-LiFE
World Nature Conservation Day is celebrated every year on July 28. This event underscores the importance of preserving natural resources, biodiversity, and ecological balance globally. The National Zoological Park in New Delhi marked the occasion in 2023 by aligning it with India’s Prime Minister-launched Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), aiming to shift societal behaviour towards mindful consumption and a sustainable circular economy.
The SMILE-75 Scheme: A Bid for Comprehensive Rehabilitation
The Minister of State for the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment shed light on the SMILE-75 Initiative in a written response to the Rajya Sabha. A part of the broader initiative “SMILE – Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprises”, this scheme aims to rid Indian cities and towns of begging by rehabilitating individuals involved in this act. It will coordinate various stakeholders’ efforts towards this goal, reflecting the commitment to social justice and empowerment. According to the 2011 Census, India has over 400,000 beggars, with West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar topping the list.
