Aravalli
National Green Tribunal (NGT) has instructed Haryana to ensure no illegal mining in Aravali Range
- One of the oldest mountain ranges in the world, stretching across Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi, and Gujarat.
- Formed during the Precambrian era (~3 billion years ago).
- Highest peak – Guru Shikhar
- Rivers – Banas River, Sahibi rivers and Luni River flow from Aravali.
- Known for its rich biodiversity and mineral deposits (e.g., marble, quartz, and granite).
Alfalfa
Genetic Engineering Approval Committee (GEAC) cleared the import of genetically modified alfalfa hay from the US
- Also known as Lucerne, it is a forage crop grown primarily for animal feed.
- Belongs to the Fabaceae family and is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals.
- Cultivated globally and used for improving soil fertility due to its nitrogen-fixing properties.
- Requires moderate temperatures and well-drained soils for optimal growth
Malabar Grey Hornbill
Researchers from Kerala have been awarded the Future Conservationist Award by the Conservation Leadership Programme (CLP) for their project on conserving the Malabar Grey Hornbill.
- A bird species endemic to the Western Ghats of India, particularly Kerala and Karnataka.
- Recognized by its grey plumage and curved beak.
- Plays a vital ecological role as a seed disperser in forest ecosystems.
- Found in moist deciduous and evergreen forests, preferring tree cavities for nesting.
- IUCN status – Vulnerable
Jevons Paradox
Recently, Microsoft CEO highlighted Jevons Paradox in the backdrop of increased adoption of the AI systems globally.
- A concept in economics, introduced by William Stanley Jevons in 1865.
- States that increased efficiency in resource use often leads to higher consumption of that resource.
- Commonly observed in energy economics (e.g., fuel-efficient cars leading to increased travel).
- Reflects the counterintuitive relationship between efficiency and resource demand.
Mesoscale Convective System
Study focused on Mesoscale Convective Systems (MCS) found Soil moisture may help forecast intense storms.
- Refers to a large, organized group of thunderstorms occurring over a wide area (~100-500 km).
- Typically lasts for several hours and causes heavy rainfall, strong winds, and localized flooding.
- Formed due to favorable conditions like high humidity, instability, and wind convergence.
- Plays a key role in the monsoon dynamics over regions like India and Southeast Asia.