Environment & Ecology Current Affairs - 2026-08-15

Background: Project Tiger, launched in 1973, is a significant initiative by the Indian government to conserve the tiger population and its habitats. The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) oversees its implementation. Current Context: In the week leading up to August 15, 2026, the NTCA held a high-level meeting to review the latest progress of Project Tiger. Discussions focused on habitat restoration, anti-poaching measures, and the impact of human-wildlife conflict on tiger populations in various reserves. Impact: The review aims to identify challenges and strategize for enhanced conservation efforts, ensuring the long-term survival of tigers in India and strengthening the ecological balance of forest ecosystems.

Background: The Green India Mission (GIM) is a national mission aimed at increasing forest and tree cover in the country, improving ecosystem services, and enhancing the livelihoods of communities dependent on forests. Current Context: On August 12, 2026, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change announced the commencement of Phase II of the Green India Mission. This phase will focus on afforestation in degraded forest areas, agroforestry, and urban greening initiatives, with a target to plant an additional 5 million hectares of trees by 2030. Impact: The expansion of the GIM is expected to significantly contribute to India's climate change mitigation goals, enhance biodiversity, improve soil and water conservation, and create green jobs, thereby fostering a more sustainable and resilient environment.