India

Over 30 exporters, nine importers and around 50 Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) from Assam participated in the conclave, reflecting growing interest in the region’s export potential.

This tradition spans generations: families arrive annually, relying on the Magh Mela as a vital source of income through boat services for pilgrims. Many carry licenses from previous years as proof of their long-standing participation. Yet this year, a bureaucratic hurdle has left them stranded.

Crucially, medium-scale irrigation proposals aimed at bolstering water access in Madhya Pradesh’s Bundelkhand region were discussed alongside measures designed to enhance water regimes for both human use and wildlife needs, particularly for reptiles like gharial crocodiles.

Though illegal for nearly five decades, bonded labour in India remains a stark and shameful reality for countless men, women, and children.

The study, based on 26 environmental, technological, socio-economic and institutional indicators, concludes that resilience to climate stress varies sharply across regions – demanding tailored interventions rather than one-size-fits-all policymaking.

India Post’s extensive infrastructure – including over 1.5 lakh rural post offices, the India Post Payments Bank (IPPB), and nearly 2.4 lakh Gramin Dak Sevaks – will serve as the backbone for last-mile delivery of integrated services.

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.