India is known for its rich cultural traditions, and its diversity is reflected in a wide variety of unique and remarkable art and craft forms. These are an integral part of Indian identity, but over time, many of these traditions have faded into obscurity. One such art is Tikuli, a form of hand painting that dates back more than 800 years. Once vibrant and flourishing, this art has now become a neglected and vanishing craft. Tikuli art, a lesser-known but richly vibrant form of painting, originates from the culturally abundant state of Bihar, India. With a history that spans centuries, this exquisite form of artwork is deeply rooted in the traditions of Mithila and has evolved to carry layers of historical, spiritual, and social significance. What makes Tikuli art especially fascinating is not only its aesthetic appeal but also its unique journey of revival through changing economic circumstances and even through challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. https://amzn.to/4amKmYH This Article, titled “The Revival of a Dying Legacy—Tikuli Art”, is a sincere attempt to highlight the importance of reviving such a heritage craft. It aims to give new life to Tikuli by exploring innovative ideas and techniques that can adapt the art to contemporary needs. Through commercialization and modern product development, the goal is to provide new livelihood opportunities for artisans while preserving this traditional art. INTRODUCTION Tikuli, a local term for “Bindi,” is a dot that signifies a woman’s commitment to her husband and is worn by royal married women in Bihar. The Bindi was a symbol of marriage and commitment for life in ancient India, which was known as the “golden bird” due to its vast gold reserves. Tikuli art during the Mughal rule transformed into a luxurious form of expression, symbolizing class and royalty. Bihar became a hub for this exquisite art, with traders from far-off states to Patna purchasing intricate gold and silver foil designs. However, as machine-made goods took over during industrialization, the handmade beauty of Tikuli began to vanish. The more detailed the design, the higher its value. By 1900, the Tikuli art was facing the threat of extinction. In 1954, Chitracharya Padmashree Upendra Maharathi, a painter, artist, and designer, provided a new dimension to the Tikuli art by adopting the Japanese method to portray the dying Tikuli art on glazed hardboard. Traditionally, Tikuli paintings were made using glass as a canvas. The artist would shape the glass like a balloon and paste gold foil on it, painting over it with delicate and intricate motifs using natural colors and enamel. These artworks, deeply influenced by the styles of Madhubani painting, often featured mythological themes, folklore, and scenes from daily life. The use of strong outlines and bold colors like red, blue, yellow, white, and black gives Tikuli art its distinct identity. However, due to the high cost and fragility of glass, the craft underwent a transformation in recent years. Modern Tikuli artists have adapted the art form onto more durable and cost-effective materials like hardboard and MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard), which not only makes the art more accessible but also opens up creative applications such as decorative plates, coasters, wall hangings, and table mats. The unorganized and largely rural nature of the Tikuli sector, along with outdated production methods, low availability of raw materials, and limited market access, have all contributed to its decline. Indian handicrafts are a unique part of India’s cultural fabric, with their vast, vibrant, colorful, and simple yet graceful charm making them a unique part of India’s cultural fabric. HISTORY A bindi is a traditional forehead decoration worn in South Asia, particularly in India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Mauritius. It is a bright red dot applied in the center of the forehead near the eyebrows, symbolizing the sixth chakra, ajna, the seat of “concealed wisdom.” The bindi is believed to retain energy and strengthen concentration, and represents the third eye. According to the Jabala Upanishad, Avimukta (the middle of the eyebrows) is the abode of Brahman in all beings. Bindis were created from Vedic times to worship one’s intellect, and were used by both men and women. The belief was that on the bindi, a strong individual, family, and society could be formed. Traditional bindis are red or maroon in color, and can be made by applying vermilion powder with a fingertip. For beginners, a small annular disc can be used. Various materials, such as sandal, ‘aguru’, ‘kasturi’, ‘kumkum’, and’sindoor’, can be used to color the dot. PROCESS Originally, it involved melting glass, blowing it into a thin sheet and making and adding traced pattern in natural colors and afterwards embellishing it with gold foil and jewels. The gold foil was etched to form traced patterns and later, natural colours were added for enhancing the etched designs. Tikuli were mainly adorned by Queens and Aristocrat women of yore. Jewels were put on gold leaves according to the status of the women in the society and these beautiful hand crafted Bindi’s were a proud possession of women in India. Later, post British raj and industrialization, machine made bindis replaced Tikuli. For more than a decade there after Tikuli artists were jobless. Many shifted their occupations; others lost their houses. Hence, Shri Upendra Maharathi, a renowned artist then, reestablished the craft in the form of enamel painting on hardboard. The base was prepared out of wood which was coated and smoothed using sand paper 4-5 times till the base was a dark brown/black glistening surface like polished granite. Now ready to be embellished using enamel paint and a fine sable/squirrel hair brush, it was painted by women in single strokes in a complimentary colour scheme using primary colors to create a piece of art. Themes, shapes, colour schemes and style of composition have seen changes since then. Since, enamel paint makes the surface heat proof and water proof, making utilitarian items like coasters, trays and
SOUTH INDIA’S STRUGGLE WITH WASTE AND WATER MISMANAGEMENT
South India faces significant challenges in managing municipal solid waste, with issues ranging from inadequate collection and processing to improper disposal and a lack of public awareness. The region struggles with high waste generation rates, especially in urban areas, and a large proportion of waste ends up in landfills or is openly dumped, posing environmental and health risks. Overflowing Cities, Sinking Futures Walk past the towering Kodungaiyur landfill in Chennai or the smoke-shrouded skies of Kochi’s Brahmapuram, and it’s clear: South India is buckling under the weight of its own waste. The numbers are staggering. Every day, the five southern states—Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana—generate over 45,000 tonnes of municipal solid waste. That’s nearly one-third of India’s total. With rapid urbanisation and rising consumption, this figure is expected to double by 2035. But it’s not just about volume—it’s about failure. Poor segregation, outdated infrastructure, neglected waste workers, and public apathy have turned trash into a ticking time bomb. A Snapshot of South India’s Waste Landscape Here’s what daily waste generation looks like in some major cities: Hyderabad: 6,500 tonnes, Chennai: 6,300 tonnes, Bangalore: 4,500 tonnes, Coimbatore: 1,100 tonnes and Kochi: 700 tonnes. Yet, less than 30% of this waste is processed scientifically. Most of it ends up in open dumps, burning landfills, or clogged water bodies. In places like Jawahar Nagar (Hyderabad) and Kodungaiyur (Chennai), leachate and methane leak into nearby neighbourhoods, affecting both health and livelihoods. Villages on city outskirts are turning into dumping grounds—without consent, compensation, or accountability. SECTOR-WISE WASTE GENERATION IN INDIA When we break down India’s waste, two things stand out. First, more than 50% of municipal solid waste is organic, made up of food scraps, market waste, and garden clippings. Ideally, this could be composted or turned into biogas. But with over 70% of waste still unsegregated, most of it ends up in dumpsites, mixed with inerts (33%), plastics (6%), and other dry waste. Recyclables—like paper (7%), metals (2%), and glass (2%)—are lost in the mix, reducing both resource recovery and income for waste pickers. Second, when we look at the sectoral sources of this waste, households and public spaces account for about 45%, but industries (25%), agriculture (10%), biomedical (10%), and e-waste (10%) form the rest. These non-household streams often include hazardous materials, but are rarely tracked or treated properly. Together, these two charts reveal a deeper problem: waste in India isn’t just a disposal issue—it’s a mismanagement crisis. Solving it means targeting both what we throw and who throws it. WHY THE SYSTEM IS COLLAPSING ? 1. Lack of Segregation Despite laws mandating source segregation, over 70% of waste remains mixed. This makes recycling or composting virtually impossible. 2.Outdated Infrastructure Dry waste collection centres are sparse. Composting facilities and waste-to-energy plants are either underused or dysfunctional due to poor planning. 3.Invisible Waste Workers South India’s recycling backbone—its 60,000 to 80,000 informal waste workers—remain invisible in policy. Many, often women from marginalized communities, lack basic protections like health insurance or safety gear. 4. Plastic Overload Single-use plastics still dominate markets. Despite bans in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, enforcement is lax, and illegal trade thrives. 5. Failed Waste-to-Energy Projects Several WTE plants shut down due to toxic emissions and community resistance. The 2023 Brahmapuram fire in Kochi was a stark reminder—poisonous smoke from burning plastic engulfed the city for days. A CRISIS BEYOND TRASH This isn’t just a sanitation issue—it’s an environmental and humanitarian crisis. Toxic air from landfill fires, Poisoned rivers like the Adyar (Chennai) and Musinagar (Hyderabad), Health hazards for waste pickers and informal settlers, Destroyed farmlands and contaminated groundwater near dump sites. But in this landscape of neglect, Bangalore is carving a different path. BANGALORE: FROM GARBAGE CITY TO GREEN HOPE Once infamous for its 2012 garbage crisis, Bangalore is slowly transforming into a model of urban resilience. Generating over 4,500 tonnes of waste daily, the city is investing in solutions rooted in community action, decentralised systems, and smart technology. Here’s how it’s making a difference: 1. Segregation at Source Bangalore mandates household-level segregation into wet, dry, and hazardous waste. In areas like HSR Layout and JP Nagar: QR-coded bins and tracking apps are in use. Kannada-language campaigns build awareness. Fines and incentives promote compliance. In well-segregated wards, up to 70% of waste is diverted from landfills. 2. Composting & Biomethanation Since 60% of Bangalore’s waste is organic, the focus is on converting it into resource. Kasa Rasa, a citizen-run composting unit in Koramangala, is a local success. Biogas plants at Domlur and KR Market turn food waste into cooking fuel. BBMP mandates bulk generators (like tech parks) to manage their own waste on-site. 3. Dignity for Waste Workers Groups like Hasiru Dala and Saahas Zero Waste have transformed waste work in Bangalore. Workers now have ID cards, safety gear, and access to healthcare. Many are part of formal collection systems, with regular pay and recognition. Still, more needs to be done—legal protections and co-operative ownership are the next steps. 4. Smart Technology for Smarter Cities Tech is helping streamline waste operations: GPS-tracked collection trucks. IoT-enabled bins. Citizen complaint redressal via the Swachhata App. Real-time ward-level performance dashboards. Bangalore is exploring AI-based sorting and open data platforms to reduce leakages and corruption. 5.Circular Economy & Safe Waste-to-Energy While past WTE models failed, new approaches are emerging: RDF (Refuse-Derived Fuel) plants at Kannahalli and Doddabidarakallu process 750 tonnes/day. Startups like Swachha Eco Solutions upcycle plastic into tiles and furniture. But the key lies in Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)—holding brands accountable for the waste they create. 6.Rebuilding Infrastructure Instead of centralised landfills, Bangalore is building decentralised hubs: Composting and biogas units at ward level. More Dry Waste Collection Centres (DWCCs). Engineered landfills with leachate control and gas capture. It’s a slow process—but the blueprint is changing. 7. Pay-As-You-Throw Pilots in select wards are testing user fees and Pay-As-You-Throw (PAYT) models. Bulk generators like malls and hotels are being charged. Households may follow, depending on volume and segregation. This economic shift encourages responsibility—and disincentivises waste. 8.Civic Action & Behavioural Change At the heart
Bhandwari Lake Restoration
Originally part of the Aravalli hill ecosystem, the Bhandwari landfill sits adjacent to water bodies that act as seasonal ponds. Over time, untreated leachate from the landfill seeped into these ponds—contaminating groundwater, harming flora and fauna, and posing health hazards to nearby forest land and wildlife. The problem escalated to the extent that animals in the Aravalli forests were reportedly drinking from these toxic reservoirs. ✅ Restoration Actions Underway 1. Leachate Extraction & Treatment Tanker-based removal: The Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) has begun pumping legacy leachate from the landfill’s ponds into tankers. STP discharge: These tankers transport leachate to the Behrampur and Dhanwapur sewage treatment plants—each with over 400 MLD capacity—for safe treatment before discharge. MCG aims to empty the polluted ponds before the monsoon and plans additional infrastructure to halt leachate infiltration into adjacent forests. 2. Drainage Containment A dedicated drainage network is being constructed around the landfill to prevent future leaks. This includes: Trenching systems Bund formations Strategic redirection of surface water These efforts are designed to contain current contamination and block further spread into groundwater and forest areas . 3. Solid Waste Management Upgrade The Bhandwari solid waste management facility is being revived under a public-private partnership from 2017–2019, with backing from Ecogreen Energy Pvt Ltd. The ₹4.3 billion project includes: Daily handling of 1,250 TPD of waste Processing via refuse-derived fuel (RDF) Generation of ~10 MW of energy per day This redevelopment is key to reducing landfill size and subsequent contamination. 🦺 Local & Ecological Importance Forest protection: These ponds are located in the Aravalli buffer zone, home to diverse wildlife. Clearing leachate helps restore ecological balance. Public health: Reducing groundwater pollution is vital for nearby human populations—especially as toxic leachate seepage can render water unsafe. Environmental compliance: Prompted by local activism, the initiative aligns with legally binding obligations to preserve forest ecosystems. 🚧 Challenges & What Lies Ahead Challenge Description Speed vs. scale The quantity of leachate is large; clearing it before the monsoon demands logistical precision. Long-term prevention Beyond emergency pumping, long-term solutions like engineered liners and continuous monitoring are needed. Governance coordination Integrating MCG, Haryana Govt, STPs, and private partners requires strong oversight. Community engagement Ensuring transparency, updates, and public reassurance is crucial. 🌱 Restoration Roadmap – What Next Advanced lining and cap systems for the landfill to halt future leachate generation. Routine environmental monitoring of water quality and wildlife health. Engineering wetlands or bio-treatment zones to naturally manage minor seepage. Waste diversion strategies—such as composting and recycling—to minimize landfill input. Community stewardship and educational outreach to maintain vigilance and awareness. ✅ Conclusion The Bhandwari Lake restoration is a vital environmental intervention. From actively removing hazardous leachate and bolstering drainage infrastructure to revamping waste management operations, the success of this initiative will directly protect the Aravalli forests, groundwater reserves, and regional ecosystems. But this must be more than a short-term fix. A forward-thinking, sustainable strategy involving engineering safeguards, community participation, and pollution prevention is essential to ensure the landfill doesn’t turn into a recurring ecological threat. 📣 How You Can Contribute Stay informed through MCG and Haryana government disclosures. Join or support local environmental groups monitoring forest and water health. Encourage practices like waste segregation and composting to reduce landfill waste. Advocate for robust engineering solutions—like geomembrane liners—at municipal and civic forums. Together, Gurugram can set a benchmark for landfill rehabilitation and natural resource restoration in urban India. For more such articles, please visit ecodastkaari.in.
Aravallis and Delhi Ridge
The Aravallis are one of the oldest landforms on the Earth (dating back 350 million years). They stretch across four states (Delhi, Haryana , Rajasthan & Gujarat). “Aravalli” is a Sanskrit word which can be broken into Ara and Valli which means “line of peaks”. The Aravalli mountain range stretches over 800 km from Gujarat to Delhi. By the time the they reach Delhi, they get inundated under a swathe of young alluvium, only rising occasionally as hillocks like the Raisina Hill, upon which rest the North Block, South Block and Rashtrapati Bhawan. From Delhi, it bounds up to Haridwar, hidden entirely below the Earth’s surface. Then it extends towards the Thar desert. A number of well known rivers like the Sabarmati in Gujarat and lesser known rivers like Luni and Vakal in Rajasthan or Sabi or Indori in Haryana originate in these hills. It supports natural marvels like the brackish Sambhar Lake, Rajasthan and Sultanpur Lake, Haryana as well as man-made wetlands like Ramgarh Lake in Jaipur or Pichola Lake in Udaipur. The Delhi Ridge The Aravallis are the “Green Lungs” of Delhi, protecting the city from hot winds coming from the Thar. They have also enabled Delhi to be the world’s second most Bird-Rich capital, after Kenya’s Nairobi. For administrative reasons, the Delhi Ridge has been divided into four parts : Northern, Central, South Central and Southern. Together they cover almost 7,777 hectares and declared a reserved Forest area in 1993, putting a halt on all construction activities. The Delhi Ridge serves as as a source of fodder and fuel wood for poor and marginalized communities living in the vicinity. During summers, its trees are decorated with yellow flowers of Amaltas, Orange flowers of Palash and white flowers of Chamrod. Northern Ridge Also referred to as the Kamala Nehru Ridge, it covers an area of 87 hectares and is located near the North Campus of Delhi University. The area consists of an eclectic blend of nature and history and houses the Northern Ridge Biodiversity Park also known as Bonta Park, developed and maintained by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA). As a local resident, We used to go there for our evening walks during Corona. There are lot of monkeys over there. You get an experience of walking through a Forest and if lucky, you can hear the wild calls of a Robin or a beautiful Peafowl. Historical monuments Flagstaff Tower The North Ridge encompasses several monuments that date from as antiquated as the pre-Mughal era to the colonial British period. [12][13][14] Mutiny Memorial Ashokan Pillar Pir Ghaib (inside Hindu Rao Hospital) Baoli (Step well) inside Hindu Rao Hospital Chauburja Masjid Flagstaff Tower Eastern Guard House Mutiny Memorial Delhi-Topra pillar, brought to Delhi from Topra Kalan by Firuz Shah Tughlaq in 1356 Southern Guard House Pir Ghaib, a 14th-century hunting lodge and Observatory built by Feroz Shah Tughlaq Chauburji Masjid Baoli (Stepwell) inside Hindu Rao Hospital Central Ridge The Central Ridge includes 864 hectares of forestry which were designated a Reserved Forest in 1914, and spans from the southern fringes of Sadar Bazaar to Dhaula Kuan. Buddha Jayanti Park Buddha statue in the Buddha Jayanti Park The Buddha Jayanti Smarak Park is situated in the central part of the Delhi Ridge in New Delhi, India. It occupies a stretch of almost a kilometre on the eastern section of Vandemataram Marg, also known as Upper Ridge Road. It was established on the 2500th anniversary of Gautama Buddha‘s enlightenment by Indian architect M. M. Rana. A sapling of the Bodhi Tree from Sri Lanka was planted here by the then Prime Minister of India Lal Bahadur Shastri on 25 October 1964. On an artificial island in the park stands a pavilion housing a gilded Buddha statue, which was dedicated by the 14th Dalai Lama in October 1993. Each year in May, on the full moon day of Vaisakha, the Buddha Jayanti festival is celebrated here. Neeraj Gupta, an Indian sculpture artist and environmentalist, is the president of Buddha Jayanti Park. In August 2023, Gupta organized a plantation program that resulted in the planting of 1,000 Cassia fistula (Amaltas) trees. Historically, the major activities contributing to the degradation of the Ridge have been : Illegal Mining Construction of buildings, roads and housing Conversion of Forest land into Parks Activities like Garbage Dumping and over-grazing Introduction of Invasive Species like Vilayati Keekar Major References : Plants of the Northern Aravalli Range in Delhi, A Guide, Dept of Forest & Wildlife, GNCT of Delhi
The Healing Power of Naturopathy: Embracing Nature for Health and Wellness
In an age where modern medicine and technology often take centre stage in healthcare, there’s a growing interest in returning to nature’s roots. One of the most holistic and time-tested approaches to health is naturopathy, an alternative medicine system that focuses on the body’s ability to heal itself with the aid of natural therapies. What is Naturopathy? Naturopathy is a system of medicine that emphasizes the body’s intrinsic healing powers. Rather than just treating symptoms, naturopathy aims to treat the root cause of illness and promote overall well-being by supporting the body’s natural processes. This approach is grounded in principles that focus on the body’s inherent ability to maintain health when provided with the right conditions. The core philosophy of naturopathy revolves around the following principles: The Healing Power of Nature: Naturopaths believe that the body has an innate ability to heal itself when supported properly. Identify and Treat the Cause: Instead of merely addressing symptoms, naturopathy seeks to understand the underlying causes of illness. First Do No Harm: Naturopathic treatments are generally non-invasive and aim to work in harmony with the body. Doctor as Teacher: Naturopaths educate patients about healthy living practices, empowering them to take control of their health. Treat the Whole Person: Naturopathy focuses on the mind, body, and spirit, acknowledging the interconnectedness of all aspects of health. Prevention: Emphasizing the importance of maintaining health rather than just curing disease. Key Principles of Naturopathic Treatment Naturopathy doesn’t rely on a one-size-fits-all model. Instead, it considers each individual’s unique physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Treatments may involve a combination of therapies, and here are some of the most common ones: Herbal Medicine: Plants have been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions. Herbal remedies can support immune function, promote detoxification, and provide essential nutrients to the body. Nutrition and Diet: Food is a fundamental part of naturopathy. Practitioners often advise making dietary changes to address deficiencies, boost energy, and promote healing. Eating whole, unprocessed foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants is central to good health. Hydrotherapy: The use of water in various forms—such as hot and cold compresses, saunas, and baths—is thought to stimulate circulation, improve detoxification, and help with pain relief. Homeopathy: A controversial practice in which highly diluted substances are used to stimulate the body’s natural healing responses. Though evidence for homeopathy is mixed, some patients report feeling improvements with this form of treatment. Physical Medicine: Naturopaths may recommend physical therapies, such as massage, chiropractic adjustments, or exercises that help realign the body and relieve stress and tension. Mind-Body Therapies: Practices like yoga, meditation, and mindfulness are encouraged to reduce stress, support mental clarity, and improve emotional health. These therapies are based on the understanding that mental and emotional well-being are crucial for physical health. Detoxification: Fasting, cleansing diets, or other natural methods are sometimes used to help eliminate toxins from the body, improving digestion, energy, and skin health. Benefits of Naturopathy Personalized Care: Naturopathic doctors often take the time to get to know their patients, tailoring treatments to the individual’s specific health needs and lifestyle. Holistic Approach: Naturopathy treats the whole person—not just the disease. It considers the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of the patient, aiming for balance in all areas of life. Focus on Prevention: Naturopathy is proactive rather than reactive. It encourages a lifestyle that fosters long-term wellness and prevents the onset of illness before it begins. Gentle, Natural Treatments: Naturopathic therapies are generally considered gentle and non-invasive, with minimal side effects. Many patients are drawn to naturopathy as a safer alternative to pharmaceutical treatments. For detailed information about Naturopathic Lifestyle, you can visit Wellcure.com and for information about Detox camps you can contact ecodastkaari.in .
International Solar Festival 2024
The International Solar Alliance (ISA) is an alliance of more than 120 signatory countries, most being sunshine countries, which lie either completely or partly between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. The primary objective of the alliance is to work for the efficient consumption of solar energy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. This initiative was first proposed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a speech in November 2015 at Wembley Stadium in which he referred to sunshine countries as Suryaputra (“Sons of the Sun”). The alliance is a treaty-based inter-governmental organization. Countries that do not fall within the Tropics can join the alliance and enjoy all benefits as other members, with the exception of voting rights. The ISA is headquartered in Haryana, India. In January 2016, Narendra Modi, and the then French President François Hollande jointly laid the foundation stone of the ISA Headquarters and inaugurated the interim Secretariat at the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) in Gwal Pahari, Gurugram, India. The International Solar Festival, recently hosted by the International Solar Alliance at Bharat Mandapam, Delhi, 5-6 September 2024. It will catalyse global solar adoption by forging partnerships, unlocking innovative financing, deploying cutting-edge technology, and boosting capacity in ISA member countries. Aligning businesses, policymakers, and financial institutions, it will serve as a launchpad for transformative collaborations that fast-track the world’s transition to a future powered by affordable, reliable, and sustainable solar energy. The Private Sector Pavilion was inaugurated by Shri Prahlad Joshi, Hon’ble Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India, and the ISA Ministerial Delegation. It had around 34 stalls hosted by TERI, IIT Delhi, few companies like Avaada, CEEW etc. The main attraction was the tractor run on Solar Energy, Sundial and Solar Cooker. Large Puppets of African and Indian ethnicities were also roaming in the pavilion, amazing everyone. Their were lots of amazing dance performances of different regions like Indonesia, Africa etc. also along with stand-up comedy act by Aakash Gupta. At the leadership panel, ‘India’s enhanced role in North-South partnership on faster solar energy transition’, Mr VK Dewangan, Managing Director and Chairman, REC Limited, highlighted the barriers overcome by the agency to promote installation of rooftop solar panels including conducting massive awareness campaigns among consumers to make solar the preferred source of energy. REC Limited has also embarked on a large-scale training exercise to equip workers with the requisite skills necessary to ensure installation of solar panels. At the evening, there was a mesmerizing performance by A.R. Rehman, Mohit Chauhan, Rakshita Suresh and other singers on first day. Next day, Sri Lankan Singer Yohani performed in the evening. For more such Festival updates, stay tuned to Ecodastkaari.com.
Top 5 National Parks in India
India is home to more than 100 National Parks with an immense variety of Flora and Fauna. Some of them are designated as UNESCO Heritage Sites also. Let’s discuss some of the prominent ones. 1. Jim Corbett National Park Established in 1936, this is India’s first national park. It is named after the legendary naturalist and conservationist Jim Corbett. Located at the Himalayas’ foothills, near the popular hill-station of Nainital, the beautiful Jim Corbett National Park, is famous for being home to a large number of tigers, the highest among any Indian national park. Spread over 1318.54 sq km, of which 520 sq km is the main area, and the remaining is buffer; the park is spread over the picturesque landscapes of Pauri Garhwal, Almora, and Nainital. The jeep safari into the dense forest to see the wild animals in their natural habitat is a must-have experience. And if you are lucky, then you may get a chance to even spot a tiger. While on the jeep safari, enjoy the lush green forest’s views cut across by streams and rivers and a few waterfalls. There are accommodations available inside the park for night-stay as well, which offer you once-in-a-lifetime experience. 2. Great Himalayan National Park This National Park in the western part of the Himalayan Mountains in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh is characterized by high alpine peaks, alpine meadows and riverine forests. The 90,540 ha property includes the upper mountain glacial and snow meltwater sources of several rivers, and the catchments of water supplies that are vital to millions of downstream users. It is part of the Himalaya biodiversity hotspot and includes twenty-five forest types along with a rich assemblage of fauna species, several of which are threatened. This gives the site outstanding significance for biodiversity conservation. It is declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site in June 2014. There are several popular trekking routes in the park, ranging from those that can be done in a day or two, to mesmerizing Tirthan Valley, Jhibhi also known as Mini Thailand . Ecotourism and homestay tourism has also being gaining popularity in places near to the park. 3.Sasan Gir National Park Gir National Park is the only place in the world outside Africa where a lion can be seen in its natural habitat. The Lions of Gir are a majestic animal, averaging 2.75 metres in length, and with a bigger tail tassle, bushier elbow tufs and prominent belly folds than his African cousin which has larger mane. Gir is a home to 40 species of mammals and 425 species of birds. Established by Nawab of Junagarh‘s private hunting area in 1965, with a total area of 1,410.30 km2 (544.52 sq mi), of which 258.71 km2 (99.89 sq mi) is fully protected as a national park and 1,151.59 km2 (444.63 sq mi) as wildlife sanctuary. It is part of the Khathiar-Gir dry deciduous forests ecoregion. The count of 2,375 distinct fauna species of Gir includes about 38 species of mammals, around 300 species of birds, 37 species of reptiles and more than 2,000 species of insects. The carnivores group mainly comprises the Asiatic lion, Indian leopard, jungle cat, striped hyena, golden jackal, Bengal fox, Indian gray mongoose, ruddy mongoose, and honey badger. Asiatic wildcat and rusty-spotted cat occur, but are rarely seen. The main herbivores of Gir are chital, nilgai, sambar, four-horned antelope, chinkara and wild boar. Blackbucks from the surrounding area are sometimes seen in the sanctuary. Among the smaller mammals, porcupine and hare are common, but the pangolin is rare. The Sasan Gir National Park is an esteemed wildlife destination in India which has attained an immense popularity among vivid travellers, wildlife lovers, photographers, nature enthusiasts, researchers and hunters. Being the only destination to spot the Asiatic Lions in India, it keeps on attracting large number of travellers from several parts of the world for its Wildlife Safaris. 4. Silent Valley National Park Silent Valley National Park is a national park in Kerala, India. It is located in the Nilgiri hills and has a core area of 89.52 km2 (34.56 sq mi). It is surrounded by a buffer zone of 148 km2 (57 sq mi). This national park has some rare species of flora and fauna. Silent Valley National Park was explored in 1847 by the botanist Robert Wight.[2] It is located in the border of Mannarkkad Taluk of Palakkad district, Nilambur Taluk of Malappuram district, Kerala, and Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu. It is located in the rich biodiversity of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The Karimpuzha Wildlife Sanctuary, New Amarambalam Reserved Forest, Nedumkayam Rainforest in Nilambur Taluk of Malappuram district, Attappadi Reserved Forest in Mannarkkad Taluk of Palakkad district, and Mukurthi National Park of Nilgiris district are located around Silent Valley National Park. Mukurthi peak, the fifth-highest peak in South India, and Anginda peak are also located in its vicinity. The Bhavani River, a tributary of the Kaveri River, and Kunthipuzha River, a tributary of Bharathappuzha river, originate in the vicinity of Silent Valley. The Kadalundi River also originates in Silent Valley National Park. Silent Valley National Park The national park is one of the last undisturbed tracts of South Western Ghats mountain rain forests and tropical moist evergreen forest in India. Contiguous with the proposed Karimpuzha National Park (225 km2 (87 sq mi)) to the north and Mukurthi National Park (78.46 km2) to the north-east, it is the core of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve (1,455.4 km2), and is part of the Nilgiri Sub-Cluster (6,000+ km2), Western Ghats World Heritage Site, recognised by UNESCO in 2007.[3] Plans for a hydroelectric project that threatened the park’s biodiversity stimulated an environmentalist social movement in the 1970s, known as the Save Silent Valley movement, which resulted in cancelling the project and creating the park in 1980. The visitors’ centre for the park is at Sairandhri. 5. Kaziranga National park Kaziranga National Park is a national park in the Golaghat, Sonitpur, Biswanath and Nagaon districts of the state of Assam, India. KNP has 5 ranges. The park, which hosts two-thirds of the world’s Indian rhinoceroses, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. According to a March 2018 census conducted jointly by the Forest Department of the Government of Assam and some recognized wildlife NGOs, the rhino population in Kaziranga National Park is 2,613. It comprises 1,641 adult rhinos and 385 calves. In 2015, the rhino population stood at 2,401. Kaziranga National Park was declared a Tiger Reserve in 2006. The park is home to large breeding populations of elephants, wild water buffalo, and swamp deer. Kaziranga is recognized as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International for conservation of avifaunal species which refers as the birds or types of birds found in a specific region, period, or environment. When compared with other protected areas in India, Kaziranga has achieved notable success in wildlife conservation. Located on the edge of the Eastern Himalaya biodiversity hotspot, the park combines high species diversity and visibility. Indian
Top 6 ways to lead a Sustainable Lifestyle…..
Let’s know more about composting , recycling and upcycling to lead a Sustainable lifestyle and the Organisations which are doing it. 1.Composting It is very necessary nowadays, because all landfills are almost filled up, be it Narela, Bawana, Okhla or Ghazipur in Delhi. If we continue to throw away our mix waste it will lead to Global Warming. So, it’s better to segregate our Daily Vegetable Waste like peels and leftovers in a container and plant waste like dried leaves and flowers. We can also put egg shells, paper and coconut husk to it. Food turns into compost through the hard work of small microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, and protozoa. On a small scale, in your backyard or neighbourhood, a compost pile should consist of three things: food scraps, water, and dry, woody material like yard trimmings or raked leaves. Yard trimmings are frequently referred to as “browns” and are high in carbon. Food scraps are called “greens” and are high in nitrogen. A compost pile should typically have twice as many browns as it does greens. Aside from preventing a pile from turning into a sloshy mess, browns are bulkier and create space for oxygen to move throughout the pile. That oxygen helps tiny microbes decompose food waste through a process called aerobic digestion. In landfills, deep piles of trash prevent oxygen from reaching decomposing food, and it’s instead broken down by microbes that can survive without air. The anaerobic digestion practiced by those microbes produces methane. In contrast, as aerobic microbes break down waste—first, easier sugary compounds, and then proteins and fats, and then finally fiber —they emit carbon dioxide, which is also a greenhouse gas, but less potent than methane. The fresh compost left after several months is in a slower state of decomposition; it’s rich with microorganisms and nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. That’s why Farmers calls it “Black Gold“. Composting is quiet easy, but for more information and composting products, you can visit dailydump.org/ . 2. Recycling Floral Waste Floral waste is one of India’s biggest pollutants, on land and water, accounting for nearly a third of all solid waste in the country, according to statistics. Because they have been offered in prayers, the dead flowers are considered holy, and not to be disposed of with the other rubbish. And so they get dumped into the nearest body of water, usually a river. The Ganges, revered and adored as Ganga Ma by millions, takes in more than eight million metric tonnes of flower waste every year, says UN Climate Change. Now imagine this in hundreds of rivers and lakes throughout the country. Floral waste not only clogs up the water channels, it also releases pesticides and insecticides into the already murky waters, harming human beings who drink from it, as well as resident marine life. In areas with no convenient access to water, flower waste is simply left in large piles on streets, or thrown into landfills. This causes a different type of problem, increasing carbon emissions and other types of air and soil pollution. Thankfully, social entrepreneurs in parts of India have come to the rescue over the past few years, collecting and cleaning these discarded flowers and turning them into usable products, such as organic compost and, more valuably, soaps, candles, holi colours, incense sticks and natural dyes. phool.co, avacayam.com and gulmeher.com are some examples of organisations which are doing this great work. The best part is that they are providing employment to women and disabled people. So that need students could read from them. 3. Discarded Clothes According to the World Resources Institute, it takes 2,700 liters of water to make one cotton shirt. And when consumers throw away clothing in the garbage, not only does it waste money and resources, but it can take 200+ years for the materials to decompose in a landfill. So, it’s better to do mindful shopping and also sometimes thrifting and upcycling of dresses, like making a dress out of an old Sari. In India, you can also sell your clothes to people who make Daris (Rugs), toys or exchange them with steel utensils. You can also donate them to goonj.org/ which has created a barter between urban surplus and village communities labour, triggering large scale rural development work. doodlage.in/ by Kriti Tula is also doing a commendable job by Upcycling factory waste into short limited edition collections. They Recycle post consumer waste and post cutting scraps into new fabrics to create season-less well finished garments made for longevity. What they further waste is segregated and converted into accessories, soft furnishing products and paper to make packaging or stationery products. I just recently visited the Rock garden and was astonished to see the Doll museum made by Nek Chand ji with old clothes. I think we need such museums in every state. 4) USED BOOKS After every change in session, there is a pile of used books and notebooks with every student. Generally, we sold it off to Kabadiwala or give it to siblings. But, we can also donate them to Book banks or Mobile Libraries. So that needy students could read from them. 5) HOME DECORE We all love to decorate our Homes but sometimes unknowingly we end up in buying unsustainable Home Decor like Plastic Flowers, Containers or Baskets. Instead of it we should use home decor that are rooted in Sustainability and Craftsmanship. Indian craftsmanship and age-old techniques of embroidery, stitching and weaving are having their much-deserved moment in the sun with the advent of several home decor brands that are reviving these practices, employing artisans, and bringing a contemporary flair with fresh designs. Being sustainable, using eco-friendly packaging and embracing the slow, mindful production cycle are other philosophies that make them better for the environment. This has revived our old trends of chikankari, macrame and croche works back in the trend for Table covers, Fridge Covers, curtains and coasters. Green live plants look more beautiful than artificial plants, they
Gandhi ji and Sustainability
We all know about Gandhiji’s ideology about Satya, Ahimsa, Sarvodaya and Antodaya. But, if we analyse all his principles deeply, we will realise that all his principles also align with Sustainable development goals of eliminating hunger and poverty . He first used the word Sarvodaya in modern times. Sarvodaya means ” the rise or welfare of all”. He borrowed his concept from John Ruskin’s Unto This Last. The proper rendering of which would be Antodaya i.e. upliftment of the last person in the society rather than Sarvodaya. Here’s how Gandhi’s ideas intersect with sustainability: Simplicity and Minimalism: Gandhi advocated for a simple and minimalist lifestyle, promoting the idea that individuals should live with only what they need and avoid excessive consumption. This aligns with the sustainability principle of reducing consumption and waste to conserve resources and minimize environmental impact. Self-sufficiency and Localism: Gandhi emphasized the importance of self-sufficiency at the local level, promoting village industries and cottage production. He believed in empowering communities to meet their own needs, reducing dependence on centralized systems. This concept resonates with the sustainability goal of promoting local economies, reducing transportation emissions, and fostering resilience. Respect for Nature: Gandhi had a deep respect for nature and believed in living in harmony with the environment. He advocated for sustainable agricultural practices, including organic farming and crop rotation, to maintain soil fertility and preserve ecosystems. Gandhi’s reverence for nature parallels modern sustainability efforts to protect biodiversity and ecosystems. Non-violence and Justice: Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence (ahimsa) extended to all living beings, emphasizing compassion and empathy. This ethical stance underpins modern sustainability principles, which seek to address social justice issues and ensure equitable access to resources for present and future generations. Community and Collaboration: Gandhi emphasized the importance of community and collective action in creating social change. He believed in the power of individuals coming together to address common challenges, which aligns with the collaborative approach inherent in sustainability efforts, such as community-based initiatives and participatory decision-making processes. Long-term Vision: Gandhi’s vision of societal transformation was deeply rooted in long-term thinking and intergenerational equity. He understood that true progress must consider the well-being of future generations, echoing the sustainability principle of ensuring that current actions do not compromise the ability of future generations to meet their needs. At the heart of Gandhi’s textile legacy lies the Khadi revolution. Khadi, a simple hand spun and handwoven fabric, became the symbol of Gandhi’s vision for a self-reliant and independent India. He believed that Khadi was not just a fabric but a means to connect the people of India to their roots, to the rural villages, and to the dignity of labour. Gandhi himself was a devoted spinner, often pictured with a Charkha, the traditional spinning wheel. Through his actions, he encouraged millions of Indians to spin their own Khadi cloth, promoting economic self-sufficiency and empowering rural communities. The Khadi movement was not just a clothing choice but a powerful political and economic statement. Gandhi’s impact on Indian textiles transcends his lifetime. His emphasis on sustainability, eco-friendliness, and ethical production methods in textiles was far ahead of his time. Today, as the world grapples with environmental challenges, his principles find renewed relevance. The Khadi movement, with its focus on hand spun and handwoven fabrics, represents a sustainable alternative to mass-produced textiles. It champions the use of natural fibers, minimal energy consumption, and support for local communities. These principles align with modern notions of ethical fashion and sustainability. Gandhi ji’s emphasis of using locally available materials is applied professionally by Gilli Mitti Farms which is promoting the concept of Mud Houses, Permaculture and Village homestays. The use different natural building techniques like earthbag, wattle and daub. They also use Clay paints and Lime paints instead of toxic paints. They have also made a rescue farm for animals named as Tuk Tuk gilhari, based in Noida. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with the latest in sustainable fashion and ethical fashion from India. We love to hear from you!
Climate Change
Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. These shifts may be natural, such as through variations in the solar cycle. But since the 1800s, human activities have been the main driver of climate change, primarily due to burning fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas. Burning fossil fuels generates greenhouse gas emissions that act like a blanket wrapped around the Earth, trapping the sun’s heat and raising temperatures. Examples of greenhouse gas emissions that are causing climate change include carbon dioxide and methane. These come from using gasoline for driving a car or coal for heating a building, for example. Clearing land and forests can also release carbon dioxide. Landfills for garbage are a major source of methane emissions. Energy, industry, transport, buildings, agriculture and land use are among the main emitters. Climate change can affect our health, ability to grow food, housing, safety and work. Some of us are already more vulnerable to climate impacts, such as people living in small island nations and other developing countries. Conditions like sea-level rise and saltwater intrusion have advanced to the point where whole communities have had to relocate, and protracted droughts are putting people at risk of famine. In the future, the number of “climate refugees” is expected to rise. Indian culture has always given importance to Sustainability and Environment Conservation. The Aranakayas (ancient texts), mention the importance of Forests. Forests help in soil, biodiversity and wildlife conservation. They acts as Carbon Sinks and works against Climate Change naturally. They provide livelihood and habitat to tribal people. Several communities such as Bishnois and Jasnathis practice Forest and wildlife conservation very seriously since centuries. Forests also support endangered animal population such as Tiger which indirectly helps in generation of Eco Tourism opportunities. Fishing, fuel wood, timber, Fodder and grazing, Nutrient Cycling are some of other benefits of preserving Forest cover. They also help in keeping our water resources clean and pure and moderate extreme evens such as Cyclone storms, Flash floods or Droughts. Spiritual and Recreational tourism can be promoted through them which can give a great boost to our economy. Talking about the modern times, with increasing population, problems like pollution and unsustainable practices of waste management are also increasing. We must go back to our roots and follow simple methods of living like composting our bio-degradable waste, using cloth bags, planting trees, rain water harvesting etc. Green fashion must be promoted instead of fast fashion and consumerism. We need to revive old conservation set ups like Bawadis, less use of pesticides and using cow dung as manure, which gradually should take up pace. As government has introduced new schemes in the budget 2023-24 such PRANAAM & GOBARDHAN which supports the above said things for farming methods. Other than these concepts, we have Permaculture, Aquaponics, Hydroponics and methods like Crop Rotation, Zero Tillage and Intercropping, which promotes zero waste and efficient use of resources. But all these practices should be taken early and seriously, otherwise it will be too late.