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Chhattisgarh
   
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Chhattisgarh Government Announces Guru Ghasidas Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve as Its Fourth Tiger Reserve.

The Chhattisgarh government has officially declared the Guru Ghasidas Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve as the state's fourth tiger reserve. This new reserve, located in the central region of Chhattisgarh, aims to enhance the conservation efforts for the Bengal tiger and its habitat. The announcement is part of the state's ongoing commitment to wildlife preservation and biodiversity. The reserve, named after the revered Guru Ghasidas, is expected to play a crucial role in protecting the tiger population and promoting eco-tourism in the area. The government’s move highlights its dedication to strengthening wildlife protection in the region.

          The reserve will boost local employment opportunities and promote sustainable tourism in the surrounding communities.

          The declaration is expected to attract additional funding and support for conservation projects in Chhattisgarh.

         
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Gevra and Kusmunda are among the 10 largest coal mines in the south-eastern coalfields.

Gevra and Kusmunda blocks of state-owned South Eastern Coalfields have secured second and fourth spots, respectively, in the list of the world's 10 largest coal mines in terms of production volume released by WorldAtlas.com. Located in the Korba district of Chhattisgarh, the two mines produce more than 100 million tonnes (MT) of coal annually accounting for about 10 per cent of India's total coal production, South Eastern Coalfields Ltd (SECL) said in a statement on Thursday.

         Gevra and Kusmunda blocks significantly contribute to India's coal supply, enhancing energy security and supporting industrial growth.

          The high production volume of these mines underscores their crucial role in meeting domestic energy demands and economic stability.

         
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SAIL-Bhilai to install 15 MW floating solar project in Chhattisgarh.

Bhilai Steel Plant (BSP), a subsidiary of Steel Authority of India (SAIL), is all set up to install Chhattisgarh’s first 15 MW floating solar project at its Maroda-1 reservoir.The venture is part of BSP’s broader strategy to curtail carbon emissions, conserve energy, and advance renewable energy solutions. Operated through NTPC-SAIL Power Supply, a joint venture equally owned by NTPC Limited and SAIL, the solar installation will be situated in Durg district. The project is anticipated to generate approximately 34.26 million units of green power annually, which will be utilised by BSP as captive power.NTPC, the consultant for the project, floated the tender for the project in January 2024, and the engineering, procurement, and construction contract is likely to be awarded soon. The project is scheduled to be completed by 2025.

         Renewable Energy Initiative: BSP, a subsidiary of SAIL, is installing Chhattisgarh’s first 15 MW floating solar project to reduce carbon emissions and promote renewable energy.

          Joint Venture Collaboration: The project is operated through NTPC-SAIL Power Supply, a joint venture between NTPC Limited and SAIL, ensuring expertise and resources are pooled for its success.

          Anticipated Impact: The project aims to generate approximately 34.26 million units of green power annually, contributing to energy conservation and sustainability efforts.
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Forest and tribal rights activist Alok Shukla won the prestigious 35th Goldman Environmental Prize 2024 for successfully leading a community campaign in Chhattisgarh.

Forest and tribal rights activist Alok Shukla won the prestigious 35th Goldman Environmental Prize 2024 for successfully leading a community campaign that saved 4.45 lakh acres of biodiversity-rich forests from 21 planned coal mines in Chhattisgarh. The Goldman Environmental Prize, also popularly known as the Green Nobel Prize, is awarded annually to grassroots environmental champions worldwide. This year, seven people have been selected for the annual Goldman Environmental Prize. They are : Marcel Gomes, Murrawah Maroochy Johnson, Alok Shukla, Teresa Vicente, Andrea Vidaurre, Nonhle Mbuthuma and Sinegugu Zukulu.

         The Goldman Environmental Prize was founded by American couple Richard and Rhoda Goldman in 1989.

          The first Goldman Environmental Prize was announced in 1990.

          Till now, seven indian have been awarded the Goldman Environmental Prize
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