Definition of mountains changing?

Dr V Selvarajan Leave a comment

‘What is a mountain?’ If a teacher asks a primary class student, the future students may reply, ‘Any big rocky structure above 100 meters is a mountain’

Mountains that are less than 100 meters in height may not be classified as mountains. This observation is from the Supreme Court’s judgment in the Aravalli case on 20-11-2025, not my own definition. The Aravalli range has largely vanished, leading to protests in North India, particularly in Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi. I have nothing new to say, as the subject has already been extensively presented by the media and on social media. My only question is how this 100-meter benchmark has been finalised. Why 100 meters, why not 50 or 25 meters? I do not find any logic or rhyme in such a decision. The decision is arbitrary and challengeable. However, the decision is currently on hold. We need to wait for the Supreme Court to review its decision and possibly consider new definitions in January 2026.

The Aravalli Range is one of the oldest mountain systems in the world, and it faces multiple serious environmental and governance issues, especially across Rajasthan, Haryana, and the Delhi NCR. The core issue is illegal Mining. Extensive mining of stone, marble, and quartz has been occurring. Environmentalists argue that the mining leads to hill flattening, loss of vegetation, groundwater depletion, and dust pollution. The mining mafia is not ready to yield. The second important issue is the clearing of forests for real estate, roads, resorts, and agriculture, which leads to soil erosion and loss of native species. The Wildlife corridors are slowly destroyed due to rampant urbanisation & Real Estate activities. Forest land reclassified as “non-forest” or “revenue land” to permit construction, especially in Gurugram, Faridabad, Alwar, and Delhi NCR areas. The Aravalli range serves as a natural groundwater recharge system, but its destruction has exacerbated the water crisis in Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi. The loss of the Aravallis removes a natural barrier against desert dust from the Thar and contributes to severe air pollution in Delhi–NCR. The reduced carbon sequestration has already started creating havoc. There is a threat to biodiversity, and invasive species are seen replacing the natural flora. When the court takes up the case again in January 2026, we hope that some goodwill will prevail and the Earth’s oldest mountain will be saved from destruction. In the name of development, let us not dilute definitions just to accommodate vested interests and then do the mutual mudslinging at the cost of sustainable development

Are trees a solution to pollution?

Dr V Selvarajan Leave a comment

The title may perhaps generate inquisitiveness and encourage environmental activists to understand my perspective. Let me clarify why I chose the topic. The trigger was a project work, initiated by a student, pursuing his MCA. As part of his project work, he was doing an in-depth analysis of Bangalore’s ward-wise tree cover and its role in combating the rising Air Quality Index (AQI). Unlike Delhites, AQI is a term, perhaps, new to many Bengalurians, not discussed widely so far.  Now, everyone in Bangalore knows what AQI is, as Bangalore’s air is also turning ‘toxic’, having crossed the 100-mark. At least this is what netizens are annoyed about nowadays. But, Delhites, don’t take this the wrong way—Bangalore isn’t trying to compare itself to you. You are top-notch when it comes to air pollution levels, with AQI readings at 800. It might take Bangalore years to reach your level. However, don’t underestimate the city’s potential. Bengalurians are confident that the AQI will reach your level. They pin their hopes on developmental activities: the ongoing metro construction, the upcoming tunnel road, the booming IT industry, and the influence of real estate interests, along with a government that often hesitates to heed expert advice.

Let me come back to the student’s thought-provoking study on satellite-based tree cover mapping and the area-wise relative AQI status. The research team called me to have my views on the study. I appreciated his efforts to map the tree cover and the AQI status even in small segments like Panchayats and wards. The research team was willing to consider my views. My first question was, ‘Will trees really come to the rescue in our battle against air pollution?’ The truth might surprise you: the answer is a resounding NO! Let’s explore why! Trees absorb carbon, but they cannot do the same for particulate matter (PM 2.5, PM 10) on leaf surfaces. Some studies show that the suspended particulate matter that gets deposited on leaves blocks stomata (small pores) on the leaves. Stomata in leaves are important for carbon absorption. In regions like Bangalore, with good rain (monsoon failures apart), those dust particles are washed, grounded, and leaves get cleaned up. But what about rain-starving places with more dust and carbon? Of course, trees act as natural filters to filter dust. However, the dust level remains uncontrollable due to ongoing construction activities in urban areas. While trees play a vital role in improving our environment, they cannot eliminate air pollution, as current pollution levels are too high to manage. A holistic time-bound approach is needed

Is open defecation still a problem in the 21st century?

Dr V Selvarajan Leave a comment

My friend cautioned me, ‘Please be careful while walking.’

A few days ago, we went birdwatching at a location between Bangalore and Mysore. I prefer not to disclose the name on this platform. My friend was right in cautioning me. When I looked down, I noticed human waste everywhere. A long time back, I used to travel by train from Delhi Cantonment to Gurugram. On both sides, we used to see many people relieving themselves, unmindful of the train passing next to them. A luxury train (palace on wheels) used to pass the same route every Wednesday, carrying foreigners to see Jaipur, Jodhpur etc. We used to wonder what the tourists would think of our country.

Whether it is a lake bund or any other water body, people do not hesitate to relieve themselves. And this is not an isolated case. And the situation is not just in rural areas, but Urban areas too. India is not yet open defecation-free (ODF), although the Government of India constructed 630000 public toilets under the Swachh Bharat Mission – Urban. This may sound exaggerated, but it is true. This count includes public and community sanitation facilities built to provide toilets in markets, bus stands, railway stations, parks, and other public places. Government data indicates that most villages have achieved ODF Plus status. However, external reports from various sources suggest that having a toilet does not guarantee its use. Neither the number ensures cleanliness of the public conveniences. Mindset is also an important factor. Many villagers prefer to choose open area. Lake bunds and river sides are easy targets. During our walk along the river and lakeside, just a fortnight ago, we were personally witness to this bitter reality. Most of the Southern states have access to household toilets, but in some northern states, such as Bihar, the situation is far below.  Some may have a wrong notion that human waste is biodegradable and nothing to worry about. Years back, a data was released about the water quality of river Yamuna at Delhi. At Okhla, a test conducted by researchers revealed that the Coliform bacteria (found in fecal matter) was a formidable 11.8 Crore in 100 ML as against the tolerant level of 5000 bacteria in 100 ML. So the bacteria may cause harmful disease if left in the open. Children may be infected easily. But we must not forget the reality. A full-fledged socio-cultural change besides economic improvement among common men need to blossom to accept the health aspects of cleanliness

DO YOU KNOW? 3.4 billion people still live without safely managed sanitation services – nearly half the world’s population.   354 million people still practise open defecation, increasing the risk of disease and harm, especially for women and girls. (SOURCE: WHO/UNICEF, 2025)

Torturing animals is suicidal!

Dr V Selvarajan Leave a comment

Published in South Express on 13.12.25

Disturbing visual! Why don’t admins remove video clips of animals being tortured?

A social media post caught the attention of the admins in a WhatsApp group. Indeed, the clip was quite disturbing! It showed a live crocodile being skinned. A Chinese woman used a knife to remove the top layer of a crocodile’s skin to create a stylish ladies’ handbag. If a weak-hearted person sees the clip, he would even faint. Now the question is whether the post is scary or the action. In another clip, it was explained how shuttlecocks are manufactured using feathers plucked from live pigeons. Shockingly, millions of feathers are taken from these birds while they are still alive. We do not want to debate whether such practices should be banned, but it is a fact that animals are being tortured. Cruelty toward animals for meat, milk, eggs, leather, wool, or silk is a major ethical concern worldwide. We cannot stop killing animals for meat. Any debate for this will end in controversy. But unconfirmed sources quote the world’s non-vegetarians as between 75% and 90%. However, in India, A 2021 survey found that about 39% of Indian adults describe themselves as “vegetarian.”  Slaughterhouses, in general, claim to kill animals at one go and without torture. This is what we understand, and we may be wrong. The animals are part of the food chain, which we acknowledge. Our concern lies with the cruelty inflicted on animals.

What is more painful to hear is that many wild animals and birds are tortured and killed for purposes other than food. Tigers are poached for their nails, teeth and bones. Metal traps used for killing them cause slow and painful death. Monkeys are forced to perform in street shows, kept in chains, and beaten until they obey commands. In traditional practices like “dancing bears” (now banned), bears had their teeth broken and noses pierced with hot rods. Crocodiles are killed brutally or skinned while alive for leather. Snakes are nailed to trees and skinned alive in illegal markets. Snake charmers remove fangs, causing infection and starvation. In Tamil Nadu, for kili josiyam (parrot astrology), flight feathers of rose-ringed parakeets are cut painfully so they cannot fly away and are used to pick fortune cards, even though they are protected under Schedule 4 of the Wildlife Act. It is an offence as per the law. The above are only indicative examples, not exhaustive. Instead of condemning social media posts that show cruelty towards animals, just because they induce palpitations, group members must come forward to become the voice for the voiceless. People who forward such posts must add a sentence cautioning the weak-hearted people to avoid seeing them. In our opinion, bringing such horrible episodes to the limelight will help create awareness and stop cruelty to animals.

Cyclone – brings strangers, raises brows!

Dr V Selvarajan Leave a comment

Published in South Express on 6.12.25

Yes, I am referring to the Amur falcons that were carried to Point Caimere by the strong winds during the recent cyclone. This attracted media attention and raised the eyebrows of environmentalists. It is but natural that a cyclone creates havoc. Obviously, Cyclone Ditwah also brought heavy rain and strong winds to the Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coast. After creating havoc in Sri Lanka, it has slowly lost its intensity as it crossed the Indian shore. But there were some unusual developments during this cyclone. Various marine species and birds were washed ashore. Two Amur falcons were blown off course during their migration and landed on the Point Calimere (Kodiakarai) coast. These birds are passage migrants and typically migrate through Gujarat and Maharashtra, but the cyclone forced them to divert from their usual route. Are these isolated cases, and could they be neglected? We need to wait and see whether these falcons will stay in the eastern coast or will return to their regular migration route in the western shore. In general, the Amur Falcon stays in India for a brief time. We do not know how the stranded birds will respond to this change. (Picture courtesy: birds of the Indian Subcontinent by Richard Garmmett & others)

This is just one side of the game. I recently came across a viral video showing an elephant saving a spotted deer stranded in floodwaters caused by the cyclone. In another instance, a leopard climbs onto an elephant to escape the floods. These animal behaviours are abnormal and misleading. Comments have already indicated that these video clips are AI-generated. Why these social media champions pass false and fabricated videos is anyone’s guess. Perhaps, more followers may help them monetise their page. But in the process, they pass on misinformation. Today’s netizens must ensure twice that a viral video is genuine or doctored. Else the misinformation would spread like wildfire. The fallout of such misinformation will be harmful and create disturbance to the behavioural pattern of human beings.

Cyclone is a serious matter. Today, Sri Lanka is under a nationwide state of emergency after Cyclone Ditwah triggered catastrophic flooding across the western provinces, killing at least 366 people and leaving entire neighbourhoods submerged. Residents wade through chest-high waters, stranded without food or shelter as they plead for urgent assistance. It seems to be the worst disaster in the country’s history. According to the Disaster Management Centre, key infrastructure like roads and bridges, power and rail networks are damaged and over a million people are affected. While Cyclone Ditwah has weakened into a deep depression near Tamil Nadu, officials warn that floodwaters may take days to recede. Under such a serious calamity, spreading rumours and misinformation will add more damage than good

Is Bangalore inching towards Delhi?

Dr V Selvarajan Leave a comment

Published in South Express on 29.11.25

AQI in Bangalore has crossed 100

This is the top news nowadays. For residents of Bengaluru, the fact that the Air Quality Index (AQI) has breached the 100 mark has led to widespread cynicism. Many people are vociferous about the increased air pollution levels caused by heavy traffic and ongoing construction works. Indeed, the city is no longer the historical “Garden City” it once was. The innumerable residential construction projects and corporate skyscrapers have caused more harm than good. It is high time that the policymakers put a halt to the licensing of such construction and consider expanding to nearby towns like Tumkur. The increased migratory population has slowly started telling upon the most preferred Bangalore weather. Summers are prolonging, and more air conditioning units are seen near every balcony. Lifestyle changes have led residents to go for a second car. But comparing Delhi, Bangalore is far better. Delhi’s air pollution, which has breached 400 mark, is turning the city into a gas chamber. The situation is grim and worse when compared to top cities of the world. While Bengalurians may console themselves by comparing Delhi, they need to understand that Bengaluru is nowhere better than Delhi. Situated in the Gangetic plains, Delhi’s terrain resembles a bowl, which allows air pollutants to linger over the city for extended periods, particularly when mixed with winter fog. In contrast, Bangalore is located on the Deccan Plateau, giving it a convex shape. This topography causes air pollutants to disperse more easily, creating the impression that pollution is better managed in Bangalore. However, if increasing pollution is not addressed promptly, the city could eventually face the same challenges as Delhi.

Delhi faces several urgent challenges, including high vehicular pollution levels, ongoing construction, and harmful practices such as garbage and stubble burning from neighbouring states. These issues have been lingering for years, with no tangible solution in the near future. Doctors started advising patients to leave Delhi. While neighbouring states report a notable decrease in stubble burning, it is clear that the measures implemented by authorities in Delhi are insufficient. Additionally, residents of Delhi are often reluctant to step out of their comfort zones and opt for public transportation, despite the excellent Metro connectivity available in the city. In Bangalore, the situation is getting worse and inching towards a stage of no return. The fact that the AQI has crossed 100 is also a dangerous indication. If there is no tab on the new constructions, the PM2.5 level will definitely go up. Metro and flyover construction is severely delayed. Damocles’ sword hangs over the city as the 16.7 km, ill-conceived, unscientific Tunnel project prepares for its ground-breaking ceremony in February 2026. While Bangalore is gearing up to face the increased traffic snarls due to the tunnel project, it is worrisome to imagine where PM 2.5 levels will reach. God alone can save Bangalore!

Rare bird alert: Bangalore birdwatchers are in a frenzy!

Dr V Selvarajan Leave a comment

Published in South Express on 22.11.25

Himalayan Rubythroat spotted in Bangalore! This newspaper headline drove bird watchers mad, including me. Recently, when I was at Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, as I came out of the ticket counter, an authorised guide tempted me to show the Himalayan Rubythroat. I hired him crazily, but instead of Rubythroat, he showed me cormorants and herons, the most common birds. When I returned to Bangalore, I heard that the bird had been spotted in Bangalore. This tiny bird with its bright red throat and distinctive calls is indeed a birdwatcher’s delight. It generally inhabits the Himalayas in the alpine meadows and dense bushes at elevations of about 3,000 meters above sea level. But how is it found in Bangalore? This is no surprise, as there are records in Kerala and Tamil Nadu of seeing this cute little bird. But the moment it is reported in the media, hundreds of birders start invading this place. Why do birders go crazy to photograph these birds? It is interesting to learn about human behaviour than bird  . Do they want to see more of the rare birds? Why are so many of them focused on spotting rare species? Why does sighting a rare bird catch the attention of the media? Is their main intention to record these rare birds and help save them from extinction? Many of the birds are slowly disappearing, including the state bird of Karnataka, the Indian roller.  Are we realising that these birds become rare due to habitat loss? What may be the thought process when they go in search of such rare species? Fun, adventure, hobby or commercial interest, what is it?

For a common man, when sparrows disappeared, it evoked little concern because he had more important things to worry about. For a media person, a bird’s disappearance or reappearance is just a headline to gain brownie points. For a politician, including an environment minister, there are many other priorities. For a bird photographer, what is his main objective in searching for a rare bird? There are a few kinds of nature photographers, one who has a commercial interest in rare sightings and the other who finds pleasure in posting rare birds on social media to attract more followers. For a naturalist, it is a conservation issue.  So what, if a few birds disappear? Coming back to the common man who has seen the extinction of a Dinosaur, it is the way the planet Earth will either eliminate the most unfit living beings (does it not remind us of Darwin’s theory of the survival of the fittest?) Ultimately, the small group of dedicated bird lovers passionate about birdwatching should focus on raising awareness about birds and taking practical steps to conserve them. They need to keep in mind the broader context of conservation as it evolves. Bird watching is not only a pleasurable activity but also plays a significant role in habitat conservation. We appeal to birders to emphasise the importance of rare birds, and all information about them, like their food sources and habitats. They must raise awareness on all platforms and contribute to the conservation of the ecosystem. “Birds can thrive without us, but humanity cannot thrive without birds”, said the renowned Indian ornithologist Dr Salim Ali. Let us not forget the golden words! (Photo courtesy: Social media post)

Why are Tiger Safaris closed in Bandipur & Nagarahole?

Dr V Selvarajan Leave a comment

“Ecotourism has brought both excitement and challenges to the world of wildlife. Unfortunately, the surge in crowded safaris and the exuberance of tourists can intrude on the natural privacy that these majestic animals need”

Published in South Express on 15.11.25

We made this observation in the South Express editorial on 2nd Aug 2025. Exactly after 2 months, we hear that the Karnataka Forest Department has suspended safaris in Bandipur and Nagarahole Tiger Reserves. The action is due to the tragic death of a 35-year-old farmer, Chowdaiah Naik, who was killed by a tiger near Hale Heggodilu in the Mysuru district. This is the third such attack in this area on a man by wild animals in the recent past. Karnataka’s Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre swiftly ordered the ban in response to local community concerns and instructed forest officials to capture the responsible tiger. While we appreciate the Minister’s prompt action, it raises concerns among eco-tourism advocates regarding the future of safaris in large reserves like Bandipur and Nagarahole. The main objectives of ecotourism are to conserve the natural environment, provide economic benefits to local communities, and educate visitors about conservation and local cultures. It aims to achieve this by promoting responsible travel that minimises negative impacts, respects local people, and provides financial support for conservation efforts. In the context of ecotourism, general tourists participating in safaris to experience the thrill of spotting a tiger in a natural forest often show little concern for conservation and habitat protection. Some even dare to go closer to the tigers and take selfies. Already, many incidents of such pseudo-adventure have been highlighted by the media. A signature campaign is currently underway to lift the suspension to protect the livelihoods of locals who rely heavily on ecotourism. Ecotourism can be a viable option if it is grounded in nature conservation and habitat protection. However, stricter rules and firm enforcement are necessary.

All safari jeeps should be equipped with recorded messages outlining the dos and don’ts when tourists are permitted inside the reserve forests. The practice of jeep drivers notifying each other and parading all vehicles around an animal must be banned. Hundreds of jeeps often rush to the location where a tiger is spotted, disrupting the animal’s privacy and peacefulness. Strict measures must be implemented to establish clear ethics for safari vehicles. India is home to two-thirds of the global tiger population. If compliance with regulations is ensured, revenue from ecotourism could enhance opportunities for wildlife protection.

Where are the migratory ducks?

Dr V Selvarajan Leave a comment

Sardar Charan Singh appeared downcast when we boarded his e Rickshaw from the hotel where we stayed. E-Rickshaw No. 66 had not seen many tourists this season. As a senior birding guide with four decades of experience, Charan Singh, the authorised rickshaw driver, is more than just a driver. He shares insights about the woolly-necked stork, shovellers, Garganey, comb ducks, and the collared scops owl. While these uncommon bird species may not be so important to normal tourists, seasoned birders often seek out such unique names while chatting with the rickshaw drivers. To successfully capture images of birds like the Garganey, Gadwall, Red-crested Pochard, Comb Duck, Black Bittern, or Nightjar, birdwatchers often rely on the expertise of guides. Sardar knows exactly where the Nightjars are likely to be perched, ensuring that his customers leave delighted. However, Charan Singh was feeling dissatisfied this time. Due to the El Niño effect, the weather was unusually hot, even for November. Typically, this time of year would attract many migratory birds to Bharatpur. But Charan Singh is determined to show some special birds to the bird lovers. So, even before the birders get disappointed, he seeks permission to go to a nearby area, about a KM away from the national park.  Though initially it appeared a typical guide mindset to market something, a drive with him was not disappointing. The birds seemed to have taken a new abode, it looked like. We had a glimpse of all three species of Cormorants, Spoonbills, Openbills and night herons besides the usual egrets, jacanas, coots and moorhens. Thousands of water birds congregated here for hatching and breeding. It appears that the Rajasthan Govt had decided to convert this place into a heronry. At least this is what a rusted board indicated. When we returned to the Sanctuary and started moving inside, we were a little bit disappointed as there were not many water birds except Painted Storks in thousands. Charan Singh said that the breeding of Painted storks was delayed this year. Some common birds were also missing. Saurus crane was not seen anywhere. We were looking for migrants but were disappointed. Initially, we thought of making two rounds, one in the morning and another in the evening. But, realising that migrants were missing, we packed up and wanted to return. But Charan Singh took us around on unknown routes, trying to help us spot a few uncommon birds. Of course, it helped us to spot a Jackal and a spotted deer. But that is not what we looked for. Though the local guides still pin hope on the arrival of migratory ducks by November end, the fact of delay in migration clearly indicates that the El Niño situation may be intensified into climate change. In old books, there is evidence for counting 500- 600 species; the present-day guides estimate 300 to 400 species during the migratory season. The global hotspot, Keoladeo National Park, which looks deserted and dry, does not appear to have any hope for tomorrow. However, we could record 82 species of birds in 4 hours

Environment can’t be saved in air-conditioned halls!

Dr V Selvarajan Leave a comment

Published in South Express on 25.10.25

‘Banker by profession, Birder by choice!’ Yes! This is how I want to reflect on my personal journey. I wish to deviate from my usual editorial to share my thoughts on environmental activism and whether I am fit for the passion chosen! During my college education in zoology, I became fascinated by bird migration, a topic that my professor handled amazingly. This inspired me to take up birdwatching as a hobby. Through watching birds, I became motivated to engage in conservation, which ultimately led me to environmental activism. Pursuing a career in banking while doing some justice to conservation was not that easy. I took to environmental activities four decades back to start my first conservation work in Tamil Nadu. After spending nearly four decades as an environmental activist, I am not confident whether I do justice to this title. To truly make a difference for our environment, we need to roll up our sleeves and get to work at the grassroots level! The Rio De Janeiro Earth Summit in the 90s awakened many of us to think globally and act locally.  I put a question, ‘Why should I wait for my retirement?’ Let me start doing something! So, I contemplated forming a social organisation with the support of enlightened friends, and took efforts to get a lake declared as a Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu, where a huge number of birds were present. Then came the jolt that I was transferred to Delhi by my Bank. I took 7 years to find a like-minded team in Delhi to continue my mission. At last, I founded Green Circle in Dwarka, New Delhi, in 2001. I could have chosen to be an independent environmentalist or could have written books on birds and wildlife. However, my inner voice guided me to focus on making small collective efforts, believing that a team can create a more powerful impact than an individual. Green Circle has now traversed 25 years of environmental action, during which I have gained more valuable lessons than I would have through solo efforts. Looking back, I feel proud of what I’ve accomplished. From designing flyers to maintaining accounts and organizing dharnas, rallies, and grassroots climate action programs, namely, plogging and tree planting, I’ve engaged deeply with environmental efforts. I’ve also presented at seminars alongside esteemed scholars, all under the Green Circle banner with a dedicated team. However, I believe our actions must lead to real conservation. Merely holding poster-making competitions or presenting papers in air-conditioned halls won’t combat climate change. Many global conventions face the same fate. As we approach our Silver Jubilee celebration on November 1, 2025, in Dwarka, New Delhi, I urge my fellow Green Circle members to reflect on these thoughts seriously.

Green Circle celebrates Silver Jubilee in Dwarka, New Delhi

Green Circle, a voluntary environmental organization that began its journey in Dwarka 25 years ago, proudly celebrates its Silver Jubilee Year. Founded with the vision of creating a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable community, Green Circle has grown into one of the most active and respected environmental groups in the region. Over the years, Green Circle has undertaken a wide range of impactful initiatives to promote environmental awareness, community participation, and ecological preservation. Its consistent efforts have inspired citizens, schools, and institutions to join the green movement. To commemorate its Silver Jubilee, Green Circle is organizing a grand community event, “Green Mela 2025” on 1st November 2025 at Bal Bhawan International School, Sector-12, Dwarka. The Chief Guest of the day is Shri Ankit Singh IPS, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Dwarka. The Guests of Honour are: Dr Dhananjay Joshi, Professor GGSIP, Kunal Gupta, Director Bal Bhavan International School, Dr Sumit Dookia- Professor GGSIPU, Poonam K Gaur, Asst. News Editor NBT, Dr Jaspreet Kaur, Principal Bal Bhavan International School, and Robin Sharma, Founder Dwarka Express. Eminent persons like Adv. Vikrant Tongad, Dr.Deepmala, Jyoti Raghavan Dr Arindam Ray, Shristi Srivasthava, Prof. Shankar Sahay, Poonam Gupta and Monika Singh will be the special guests. The event will bring together 50+ schools and over 1000 participants, featuring eco-stalls, painting and poster competitions, street plays, cultural performances, and interactive environmental sessions under the theme “Environment First, Efforts Must.” An estimated 2,500 footfalls are expected.

Birds are vanishing fast!

Dr V Selvarajan Leave a comment

Published in South Express on 18.10.25

Where No Vultures Fly, a 1951 British film directed by Harry Watt and starring Antony Steel and Dinah Sheridan, was an adventure movie based on the real-life story of the conservator Mervyn Cowie in the jungles of Kenya. Now vultures are rarely seen. I still remember the Gole market in Karol Bagh, which had meat shops in the 90s. I used to wonder at the huge flock of giant-sized vultures waiting for the leftovers. When I used to travel by a scooter from Gole Market towards East Patel Nagar, enjoying the winter weather, I never missed the migratory Swallows gregariously flying low and near me, while waiting at signals. Gone are those days, as flyovers and metro pillars dominate most signals. The Great Indian Bustard (GIB) is the state bird of Rajasthan. Recently, I saw a video clip in social media that tends to promote a whiskey brand called Godawan 173, relating it to the near extinction of GIB. The Rs 500000 per bottle of whiskey is Indian-made (Is it self-reliance?) Yes, you read it correctly. It is Rs 5 lac, coming in a beautiful Jaipur Blue bottle. While the researchers dispute the actual number of birds (not 173, they claim), it is a shame that a whiskey brand is promoting conservation of GIB without even caring to contribute to the conservation

Rapid urbanization has taken its toll. Even the most common sparrow has become uncommon in cities and towns. But still, they are part of rural India. Recently, it was reported that the India Roller, Karnataka’s state bird (neelkanta in Kannada) has been downgraded to the ‘Near Threatened (NT)’ category by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) from the earlier category of ‘Least Concern (LC)’. Whenever we go birdwatching in natural areas like lakes and rural scrub jungles, we seek out the Indian Roller, which is often regarded as one of the most beautiful birds. I still remember seeing this bird perched on power lines in large numbers back in the 90s. While travelling by train, it was fascinating to observe this bird, with its distinctive big head and bright blue colour, as it flew by. Unfortunately, it has now become a rarity. In Bangalore, the winter season has nearly begun, but migratory bird species are notably absent. Man-made climate change is believed to be the primary cause of the rapid decline of these rare species. This trend is evident in other regions as well. For instance, in Rajasthan’s Bharatpur National Park, migration has yet to start. Similar situations are occurring in many other places. Activities such as the beautification of water bodies, unregulated ecotourism, and careless development projects are causing us to lose our valuable natural assets. The vanishing of the bird species is a stark reality of how fragile migratory birds have become. Stronger global action is needed to protect rare species before they too vanish.  (Photo courtesy: Karthik, Bangalore, and IUCN website)

Stop torturing trees!

Dr V Selvarajan Leave a comment

Published in South Express on 11.10.25

“Save trees! Plant more trees!” These are the most common slogans heard in any town. I wonder whether we truly care about the trees. Day in and day out, we encounter attacks on trees, especially in urban areas. Anurag ventilates his anger in social media when a poster or banner is nailed to a tree. Aswinikumar becomes vociferous about the concretization of the trees, which slowly destabilizes a tree. Kumar says that commercial organisations like hotels or malls seek publicity by using serial lights around trees without realizing that the electrification of a tree heats its bark and destabilizes its growth. But then, if there is no one to question, the bureaucrats and political parties will never bother. Recently, in Tamil Nadu, during a political rally by a film star, the crowd climbed a tree to avoid being crushed in a stampede. In the process, the branch of a tree broke down, wounding all those who climbed up the tree. When such conditions prevail, the tree is the victim. During the monsoon, trees reportedly fall due to heavy rain. But if we look at the fallen tree closely, we will realize that it was due to heavy concretization of the root zone. Nowadays, for every development project, trees are felled or transplanted. The common man has no clue about the number of trees felled or transplanted. We believe the data given by the authorities. Whenever some mass cutting is contemplated, environmentally conscious people raise their voice. If our voice is feeble, then the development project goes further without any checks.

Nails puncture the bark, damaging the inner layers, including the xylem and phloem, which are responsible for transporting water and nutrients throughout the tree. The protective bark of a tree shields the inner living tissue from pathogens and insects. Nailing punctures this defense, creating an entry point for infection. A healthy tree may grow over the wound, but a weak or young tree may not recover. Similarly, artificial lights wrapped around trees as decoration affect the lifecycle of the trees and the animals and birds associated with these trees. light at night can disturb the tree’s natural resting cycle and interfere with its process of photosynthesis. Similarly, covering the roots with concrete suffocates and starves the tree by preventing essential water, air, and nutrients from reaching its root system. Right from nailing to transplanting, trees are subject to untold miseries. India is the country that demonstrated to the world that trees are our brothers and sisters. Chipko movement raised the brows of world leaders who were awestricken at the kind of love shown by Indians. Trees occupy a very important role in our literature. Trees do not speak, yet they breathe life into everything around us. Let us become their voice, their guardians, and their companions in survival. For when a tree falls, a part of humanity falls with it.