OWSA Staff

Once feared extinct, the tiger (Panthera tigris) now stands as a symbol of India’s ecological resurgence. But as the national survey gains momentum, scientists and forest officials warn that habitat space, prey availability and human pressures could test future gains.

The meeting also reviewed management of construction and demolition (C&D) waste, with emphasis on designating C&D waste sites, stopping demolition activities during peak pollution periods, and partnering recycler associations for scientific disposal.

The initiative’s cornerstone is the Training and Capacity Building Programme Calendar prepared by the National Fisheries Development Board in coordination with Indian Council of Agricultural Research fisheries institutes.

The funds, primarily structured as low-interest concessional loans through Germany's development bank KfW, will target key priority areas aligned with India's ambitious climate goals and the broader framework of the Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP), launched in 2022.

Speaking at the launch, officials highlighted how PANKHUDI aligns with prime minister Narendra Modi's vision of leveraging technology as a bridge between the government and citizens.

The KPMG–UNDRR GETI partnership seeks to translate global DRR frameworks – notably the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030 – into practical, scalable actions adapted to India’s context.

Appreciating initiatives like Gift Milk and Shishu Sanjeevani by NDDB, Krishan Pal Gurjar said these programmes focus on aspirational districts, tribal areas, Anganwadi centres and government schools, ensuring alignment with local needs and last-mile delivery.

The “State of Marginal Farmers in India 2025,” published by the Forum of Enterprises for Equitable Development (FEED) and launched on Kisan Diwas, paints a sobering picture.