Is India Winning the War Against Pollution? The fight for cleaner air and water intensifies as the nation grapples with the escalating impacts of climate change. From the devastating floods in Assam to the alarming rise in air pollution levels in Delhi, environmental challenges demand urgent action. This week saw crucial discussions on sustainable agriculture and renewable energy sources at the India Climate Change Conference, highlighting the government's commitment to tackling deforestation and promoting biodiversity conservation. But are these efforts enough? Experts warn of looming water scarcity and the need for stricter regulations on industrial emissions. The future of India's environment hangs in the balance, demanding collective responsibility and innovative solutions. Explore Abtak.com for in-depth analysis and the latest updates on environmental policies, climate activism, and the ongoing struggle for a sustainable India. Discover how you can contribute to a greener tomorrow.
Bulandshahr (Uttar Pradesh) [India], June 6 (ANI): Reaffirming its unwavering dedication to pollution control, ecological restoration, and community involvement, the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) organised a vibrant event in Bulandshahr on World Environment Day. The occasion was marked by inspiring speeches, community activities, and initiatives aimed at protecting India's sacred rivers. Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil presided over the event and highlighted the three core pillars of the mission: ecological restoration, sustainable living, and technology-driven conservation. Emphasising the spiritual and environmental significance of rivers such as the Ganga, he remarked that protecting these water bodies is both a cultural duty and an urgent environmental priority. 'Through collaboration, I am confident our shared aspiration for a pristine Yamuna will be realised. On the auspicious occasion of Ganga Dussehra, I extend my heartfelt wishes to all and express deep gratitude to the workers and farmers dedicated to organic farming and preserving a clean Yamuna,' said Minister Patil. During the event, Minister Patil engaged warmly with Ganga Praharis and students, who shared innovative eco-friendly initiatives. A cleanliness drive at the ghat involving volunteers and municipal staff demonstrated a strong community commitment to river conservation. A street play captivated the audience by emphasising personal responsibility and the Ganga's profound spiritual and ecological significance. Minister Patil also inaugurated a workshop on natural farming and agricultural innovation, attended by farmers, experts, and students. The workshop focused on chemical-free farming practices, soil health, and combating climate change. Rajeev Kumar Mital, Director General of the National Mission for Clean Ganga, reinforced that conserving the Ganga and its tributaries is a shared responsibility that safeguards India's cultural heritage and ensures clean water for future generations. He praised the Namami Gange programme for its transformative impact, noting that over Rs 40,000 crore has been invested across nearly 500 projects nationwide to rejuvenate water resources and ecosystems. Krishi Sakhi, Nilima Sharma shared her experience, and said, 'Initially, we struggled financially with organic farming, but today, we are profitable and recognised throughout our district. I encourage other farmers to embrace this sustainable path.' The National Mission for Clean Ganga continues to champion river revival, sustainable agriculture, and grassroots engagement, paving a vibrant path toward a cleaner, greener tomorrow. (ANI)
NEW DELHI: Dilip Kumar, the 'Tragedy King' of Indian cinema, continues to be remembered for his unmatched contributions to Bollywood. Born on December 11, 1922, as Muhammad Yusuf Khan in Peshawar, Pakistan, he ruled the silver screen with his impeccable acting skills, emotional depth, and charisma. On the occasion of his birth anniversary, let's take a trip down memory lane to revisit some of the most iconic roles that made Dilip Kumar a cinematic legend, a man who left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. 1. 'Andaz' (1949) In 'Andaz', Dilip Kumar shared the screen with Nargis and Raj Kapoo ...Read More >
PRAYAGRAJ, India (AP) -- Millions of Hindu devotees, mystics and holy men and women from all across India flocked to the northern city of Prayagraj on Monday to kickstart the Maha Kumbh festival, which is being touted as the world's largest religious gathering. Over about the next six weeks, Hindu pilgrims will gather at the confluence of three sacred rivers -- the Ganges, the Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati -- where they will take part in elaborate rituals, hoping to begin a journey to achieve Hindu philosophy's ultimate goal: the release from the cycle of rebirth. Here's what to know abo ...Read More >
Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India], February 5 (ANI): Uttar Pradesh Vidhan Sabha Speaker Satish Mahana visited the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj on Wednesday and expressed his admiration for the arrangements, calling them "unique, amazing, and unimaginable." Speaking to ANI, Mahana shared his experience of visiting the Kumbh twice, remarking on the inclusivity of the event, where people from all walks of life--regardless of wealth, caste, or background--gather to bathe in the Triveni Sangam, embodying unity. "I am fortunate to have the opportunity of coming twice to Maha Kumbh. The arrangements her ...Read More >
BENGALURU, India, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Marriott India proudly achieved its ambitious goal for World Environment Day 2025, a commitment to plant 100,000 trees across its extensive portfolio of over 150 hotels nationwide. This significant undertaking marked a powerful escalation of Marriott India's dedication to sustainability and ecological restoration, building upon the success of its previous environmental initiatives. This landmark endeavor was built upon the successful foundation of last year's 'Two Trees per Room' initiative, launched on World Environment Day 2024. That program, a ...Read More >
Guwahati, Jun 5 (PTI) The Assam Congress on Thursday demanded a CBI inquiry into alleged illegal stone mining in Karbi Anglong district in violation of a Supreme Court order. Addressing a press conference here, former Rajya Sabha member Ripun Bora also alleged that Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council Chief Executive Member Tuliram Ronghang was allowing illegal activities in the district in nexus with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. "Large-scale illegal stone mining is taking place in the hills of Karbi Anglong in violation of the Supreme Court order. The SC had banned mining in and around K ...Read More >
Jaipur, Jun 5 (PTI) Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma on Thursday called upon people to adopt an environment-friendly lifestyle and said that the conservation of nature is the moral responsibility of all. He was addressing a state-level programme organised here on the occasion of World Environment Day and Ganga Dussehra. Sharma said that the conservation of nature is not just an option but a dire necessity. Environmental conservation and preventing the ill effects of climate change is our moral responsibility and duty. Water conservation in Rajasthan has been an integral part of the state's c ...Read More >
Mumbai: The birth of three penguin chicks at Mumbai's Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan and Zoo has sparked an unexpected row not over their care, but their names. BJP functionary Nitin Bankar from the Byculla Assembly constituency has objected to the chicks being given English names, insisting they be named in Marathi instead. The BMC is expected to respond by June 10, after which Bankar will decide his next move. Speaking to The Free Press Journal, Bankar said, "When penguins were brought from abroad, we accepted that their names would be in English. But these chicks were born on the soil of M ...Read More >
In a groundbreaking conservation effort, a large-scale underwater cleanup at Sindhudurg’s coral reefs removed 300 kg of marine debris, marking a significant step in protecting the fragile ecosystem. Organized by environmental groups, the Maharashtra Forest Department, and local divers, the operation targeted harmful pollutants like fishing nets, plastic, and glass bottles. The cleanup, which took place over two days, aims to restore coral health by removing debris that suffocates corals and disrupts marine life. The initiative, supported by local communities, sets the stage for further efforts ...Read More >
PRAYAGRAJ, India: Tens of thousands of Hindus seeking absolution of their sins immersed themselves on Monday in freezing waters at the confluence of sacred rivers, as India began a six-week festival expected to draw the world's largest gathering of humanity. Held every 12 years, the Maha Kumbh Mela or Great Pitcher Festival, as the religious event in the city of Prayagraj in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh is called, attracts more than 400 million visitors, both Indians and tourists. As many as 40,000 police officers are on guard to provide security and help manage the crowds, while surv ...Read More >
Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India], February 7 (ANI): Bihar Governor Arif Mohammed Khan arrived at the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj on Friday and said that the 'Sanatana' culture embodies the oneness of being and that all the differences dissolve in it. Speaking to the media here, Arif Khan highlighted the Indian culture of seeing divinity in humanity, asserting that "manav" (humans) are a reflection of "Madhav" (God). Khan also noted that India's heritage, values, and ideals continue to be celebrated at the Mahakumbh, fostering unity among people beyond personal familiarity. "We should always not ...Read More >
Gandhinagar: Stating that it was time to decide whether the next generation will "have a plastic-free or plastic-laden environment," chief minister Bhupendra Patel on Thursday said that the campaign against single-use plastic should become a mass movement in Gujarat. Presiding over the state-level programme in Gandhinagar to mark World Environment Day, the chief minister also unveiled several projects aimed at environment protection. "The Prime Minister has envisioned environment-friendly development, and Gujarat will adhere to the principle of ensuring development in a sustainable and environ ...Read More >
The overall development of the country is not possible without the development of agriculture and farmers. The nation's economy can be strengthened by the development of agriculture, fishery production, and livestock, President Droupadi Murmu said on Thursday. Gracing the convocation ceremony of the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology at Bhubaneswar, she said agriculture is facing new challenges such as natural disasters, adverse effects of climate change, decreasing per capita farm ...Read More >
New Delhi, Dec 18 (PTI) The Rashtrapati Nilayam, one of the two presidential retreats, in Telangana's Secunderabad will host a 15-day flower and horticulture festival, 'Udyan Utsav', from December 29. People could make themselves aware about the innovation and technological development in agriculture and horticulture by visiting thematic stalls and participating in the workshops, according to an official statement issued on Wednesday. The Udyan Utsav, organised in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, the National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management ...Read More >
Kendrapara (Odisha), Jan 14 (PTI) With the annual crocodile and migratory birds' headcount exercise getting underway, the Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha's Kendrapara district would remain shut for nine days from Tuesday. Several teams have been constituted to count the crocodiles and birds in the creeks, rivers, wetland sites and mangrove forests within the park and its nearby areas, an official said. Any form of human activity could disrupt the process, and that is why the national park will remain closed till January 22, he said. The restrictions for visitors will also prevent noise ...Read More >
Thiruvananthapuram, Jun 5 (PTI) The presence of a Bharat Mata portrait, allegedly associated with RSS shakhas, at a World Environment Day event at the Raj Bhavan on Thursday led to the state government boycotting the programme, prompting Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar to assert that there would be no compromise on Bharat Mata. Kerala Agriculture Minister P Prasad, who boycotted the event, said that the state government respects Bharat Mata, but using an image commonly associated with RSS shakhas for an official function at Raj Bhavan is unconstitutional. While the Raj Bhavan went ahead ...Read More >
Mumbai, June 5: On the occasion of World Environment Day, actress and newly-elected BJP MP Kangana Ranaut participated in a special tree plantation initiative under the campaign 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam.' Taking to social media, Kangana revealed that she planted a sapling at her Delhi residence to mark the day, dedicating the gesture to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In her post, the actress expressed heartfelt gratitude to environmental warriors who tirelessly work to protect and restore the Earth's natural resources. She acknowledged those who have devoted their lives to saving rivers, cleaning t ...Read More >
Haridwar: A woman politician has been arrested for allegedly letting her boyfriend and others repeatedly rape her 13-year-old daughter in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. The horrifying crime, which occurred between January and March, was exposed when the minor bravely confided in her father, prompting a police investigation that led to the arrest of the accused. The accused was arrested with her boyfriend and one more. According to police reports, the minor was gang-raped multiple times, often in the presence of her mother. The minor, who had been living with her father following her parents' separat ...Read More >
Delhi is facing worsening pollution and erratic weather patterns, with the air quality regularly reaching dangerous levels. This is partly due to climate change, with temperature rises and unpredictable rainfall patterns caused by global warming. The industrial revolution has played a significant role, contributing to the rise in global temperatures. The effects are already being felt, with 2024 witnessing record-breaking heat in India. Despite this, there is little action from society or leadership, with courts repeatedly stepping in to address issues like pollution and farm fires. The need f ...Read More >
Dharwad: Joint director of agriculture Manjunath Antarvalli has called upon the farmers to grow millets and supply quality food items to the domestic market. Speaking after flagging off 'Walk for Millet' organised by the agriculture department in Dharwad on Thursday, he said the farmers growing millets should be encouraged in all possible ways. "Popularly known as superfoods, the millets which are little wonders have been the most sought-after food post-pandemic. High in nutritional values, the ...Read More >
Bihar's infrastructure has seen a 15-fold increase in data consumption over the past five years. Road density is now the third highest in India, electricity generation has increased tenfold, and IT parks and data centers are being developed. Numerous bridges and expanded rail lines are improving connectivity and boosting trade.Bihar has seen a 15-fold jump in data consumption in the last five years as the state goes big on developing infrastructure, investing in connectivity and building rail and ...Read More >
Hisar, Jun 5 (PTI) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini Thursday announced the establishment of natural and organic mandis in Gurugram and Hisar to promote natural farming on a large scale in the state. The Gurugram mandi will cater to produce such as wheat, paddy and pulses, while the Hisar mandi will focus on fruits and vegetables grown through natural and organic methods. Also Read | Delhi: High-Level US Team Arrives for Talks on Bilateral Trade Pact With India. In addition, a committee will be formed under the Haryana Kisan Kalyan Pradhikaran to determine fair pricing for produce gr ...Read More >
Bhubaneswar, June 5 (UNI) Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday urged the people to resolve to end plastic pollution and maintain a healthy, clean environment. "Today, let us pledge to eliminate plastic pollution and create a healthier, cleaner environment for our citizens," Majhi said while addressing the state-level World Environment Day event. He noted that plastic has become an integral part of our lives, especially single-use plastics. Stressing that plastic waste must be ad ...Read More >
Thiruvananthapuram: A fresh controversy has erupted after state Agriculture minister P Prasad boycotted an event organised at Kerala Raj Bhavan on the occasion of World Environment Day today, in protest against installation of a Bharatamba image "associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)" on stage inside the premises. The minister accused Governor Rajendra Arlekar, also a former RSS leader, of turning Raj Bhavan into an RSS venue. After the minister objected to use of "politically symbolic image" in the government programme, the event was shifted to the Secretariat. As per report ...Read More >
Hisar, Jun 5 (PTI) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini Thursday announced the establishment of natural and organic mandis in Gurugram and Hisar to promote natural farming on a large scale in the state. The Gurugram mandi will cater to produce such as wheat, paddy and pulses, while the Hisar mandi will focus on fruits and vegetables grown through natural and organic methods. In addition, a committee will be formed under the Haryana Kisan Kalyan Pradhikaran to determine fair pricing for produce grown using natural and organic farming practices. The Chief Minister made these announcements ...Read More >
Gandhinagar (Gujarat) [India], June 5 (ANI): Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel graced the distribution ceremony of 50 JCB machines organised by the Bharwad Yuva Sangathan - Gujarat Pradesh, held at Town Hall in Gandhinagar on Thursday. During the event, 50 economically disadvantaged youths from the Bharwad community were provided with JCB machines without any down payment, as part of an initiative to empower them towards self-reliance, according to the press release. Commending the efforts of the organization, the Chief Minister stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has always emphas ...Read More >
Agartala (Tripura) [India], June 5 (ANI): Tripura Governor Indrasena Reddy Nallu on Thursday urged people to plant trees in their homes and avoid the use of plastic on the occasion of World Environment Day. Governor of Tripura Indrasena Reddy Nallu said, 'Today is World Environment Day. Tripura is a green land, a green state. We must always strive to maintain this greenery and take the state even further on the path of environmental progress. I would like to tell the people of the state to avoid the use of plastic. I urge everyone to plant trees in their own homes.' Tripura joined the global ...Read More >
Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India], January 21 (ANI): Former President Ram Nath Kovind arrived at the MahaKumbh in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj on Tuesday morning. Kovind expressed happiness over the arrangements at MahaKumbh. " The arrangements done here are really good; all facilities are there... I went to several camps. I'm very happy. Yogi Adityanath and UP's arrangements are really good; I thank the administration," Kovind told ANI. On One Nation, One Election, the former president, who was the chairman of the committee on the proposed bill, said, " The work is going on; it is in the hand ...Read More >
Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India], January 27 (ANI): The ongoing Mahakumbh in Prayagraj has witnessed an extraordinary surge in devotees, with over 6.019 million pilgrims taking the holy dip at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers as of 12 pm on Monday, as per Uttar Pradesh government. Earlier today, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday took a holy dip at the Sangam Triveni in Prayagraj in the ongoing Mahakumbh Mela. Also Read | Uttarakhand Becomes First State To Implement Uniform Civil Code; CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Launches UCC Portal, Credits People for Implementatio ...Read More >
Jaipur, Jun 5 (PTI) Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Thursday launched the 'Vande Ganga: Jal Sanrakshan Jan Abhiyan', a water conservation campaign, on the occasion of World Environment Day and Ganga Dussehra. He called for collective efforts to conserve nature and make Rajasthan self-reliant in water, according to a statement. Also Read | Who Is Pinaki Misra? From Age to Family Background and Net Worth, Here's All About BJD Leader With Whom Mahua Moitra Reportedly Married. Addressing a public gathering during a 'Shramdaan' (voluntary labour) programme at the Ramgarh Dam site, ...Read More >
Indian sustainability startups are currently at the forefront in terms of handling critical environmental challenges. They are emerging with innovating solutions frequently for a greener future. Key Communications recently conducted a survey and it reports that the startups are in need of urgent support to make their journey less struggling. The survey reveals that more than 60% of sustainability startups in the country believe that they need stronger government backing with respect to growth and funding. Currently there are about 6,600 cleantech startups in India and such ventures are import ...Read More >