Event Overview:

• The third HDSR Star Party will take place in September 18-23, 2025 at the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR) in Ladakh.
• Co-hosted with Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Ladakh Wildlife Department and BARC.

Recent Conservation Action:
A major conservation effort has been taken by the District Magistrate of Baramulla who has ordered that 14 of the illegally operating gypsum mining units within the 1-kilometer prohibited zone around the Lachipora Wildlife Sanctuary be closed down. This move reiterates the importance of ensuring that the fragile ecosystem of the sanctuary is not damaged in industrialism.

Introduction

India has also launched an anti-dumping enquiry into the importation of Ethambutol Hydrochloride tuberculosis drug into the country against Chinese and Thai imports. The reason behind this regulatory step is the protection of local pharmaceutical manufacturers against the unfairly priced imports, and the provision of the stable supply of this vital medication.

India is also in the process of making major changes in its automotive regulatory system by drafting the introduction of the third round of its Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE) standards. These norms are one of the pillars of the national plan to make the transport industry more sustainable and efficient.

Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Program.

Launch & Recognition: This program was launched in 2024 as a component of the campaign program, Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain. Recently, Karnataka district of Bidar was given the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Award as a top performing district.