Sankhya Sagar, an artificial lake situated in Madhya Pradesh, is facing an environmental crisis due to the invasion of Water Hyacinth. This invasive aquatic plant has smothered the lake, imposing a severe threat to its ecological balance. Sankhya Sagar, declared a Ramsar site in July 2022, plays a pivotal role in maintaining the ecological equilibrium of the Madhav National Park. It serves as a home to 19 indigenous fish species and sustains piscivorous birds and Marsh crocodiles – listed under WPA 1972; Schedule I.
Originating from South Africa, Water Hyacinth has naturalised in many parts of the world. Its impact cannot be entirely categorized as harmful or useful. While it helps purify water by eliminating heavy metals, an excessive coverage of Water Hyacinth obstructs sunlight penetration into the water body and gradually depletes oxygen levels. The alarming presence of Water Hyacinth in Sankhya Sagar indicates high nitrogen levels in the lake, leading to the demise of native species.
Ops Alert Exercise Bolsters India-Pakistan Border Security
In anticipation of the upcoming Republic Day celebrations, the Border Security Force (BSF) initiated an ‘Ops Alert’ exercise from January 21-28, 2023. This exercise aims to enhance the security along the India-Pakistan border stretching from Sir Creek to Kutch (Gujarat), and Barmer (Rajasthan) to counteract any possible threats by anti-national elements.
For the first time, “permanent vertical bunkers” made of concrete are being constructed to station BSF troops right at the important zones of Sir Creek and ‘Harami Nalla’ marshy areas. The Union Home Ministry allocated a fund of Rs. 50-crore for constructing 8 multi-storey bunkers cum observation posts in this region to curb the consistent infiltration of Pakistani fishermen and fishing boats.
TROPEX 2023: A Major Maritime Exercise
The Indian Navy rolled out its prominent maritime exercise, TROPEX, for the year 2023 in the Indian Ocean Region. The Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise (TROPEX) is conducted biennially, involving the Indian Navy, Army, Air Force, and Coast Guard.
Held over three months from January to March, TROPEX 2023 tests the complexities of maritime operational deployments using all surface combatants including Destroyers, Frigates, Corvettes, submarines, and aircraft. This exercise validates and refines the Navy’s Concept of Operations including operational logistics and interoperability with other Services.
National Girl Child Day: A Recognition of Girls’ Rights
National Girl Child Day is observed on January 24 every year in India to accentuate the discrimination and injustices faced by girl children. Established in 2008 by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, this day also promotes awareness about women’s rights in India.
Various government initiatives have been launched to improve the condition of girls in the country. ‘Beti Bachao and Beti Padhao (BBBP)’ is a notable initiative that has undergone recent revisions to ensure better outcomes. These dedicated efforts further emphasize the importance of National Girl Child Day in advancing girls’ rights in the country.
