Know Your GK: UPSC Current Affairs & General Knowledge

Ramsar Sites in India  Did you know that India now has the  highest number of Ramsar Sites in Asia ? From bird-filled wetlands in Tamil Nadu to heritage-linked lakes in Madhya Pradesh, these eco-rich zones are being recognized globally for their importance.  India now has 89 Ramsar sites , the highest in Asia, reflecting the country’s growing commitment to wetland conservation. New Ramsar Sites in India – 2024 Tawa Reservoir, Madhya Pradesh Recognised on: 8 January 2024  Type: Freshwater reservoir  Key species: Indian carp, rohu, catla, migratory ducks, herons  Importance: Supports agriculture, fisheries, and local biodiversity Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu Recognised on: 16 January 2024 Type: Shallow freshwater lake  Key species: Painted stork, spot-billed pelican, common coot, purple moorhen, egrets Importance: Major stop for migratory birds on the Central Asian Flyway Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary, Tamil Nad...

  Kancha Gachibowli Forest: The Battle Between Urban Growth and Green Survival 🏞️ What is Gachibowli? Understanding the Name and the Place Gachibowli is a busy tech area in Hyderabad, but its name comes from history. "Gachi" means lime mortar, and "Bowli" means a stepwell. These stepwells were used by travelers to rest and get water. Over the years, this area grew from a quiet suburb into a city hub with IT parks, stadiums, and top universities like the University of Hyderabad and IIIT-Hyderabad . In the middle of this modern development lies the  Kancha Gachibowli forest , a green area full of life. It's now caught in a battle between building new things and saving nature. 📰 Why is Kancha Gachibowli in the News? In early 2024, the Telangana government planned to sell 400 acres of land , including part of the Kancha Gachibowli forest, to build a new IT and financial district . They said it would bring in Rs. 50,000 crore and 5 lakh new jobs. But this pl...