environmental crime

India recorded a 16.4% decline in environment and pollution-related crimes in 2024, with 57,670 cases reported. The majority of these offenses, over 80%, were violations of the Cigarette and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA). Noise pollution and forest-related acts followed as the next most reported offenses.

Tops Country In Noise Pollution Violations

Hundreds of vehicles, seized in legal battles, are accumulating in Noida's police station parking lots and public spaces, turning them into scrap junkyards. These vehicles, often in working condition when seized, deteriorate due to exposure, leading to financial losses and environmental concerns. Delays in court permissions and administrative processes hinder timely auctions, exacerbating the congestion.

Kolkata's trams are experiencing a resurgence in interest, shifting from nostalgia to a sustainable transport solution. Despite policy inconsistencies and years of route closures, advocates argue trams are economically viable and environmentally sound. Experts believe modernization and integration, not just repainting, are key to their revival, offering a low-cost, high-capacity alternative to congested roads.

Defence veterans, including former IAF chief R K S Bhadauria, strongly back the Greater Nicobar project, deeming it vital for India's national security and military presence. They argue it enhances surveillance of the Malacca Strait, crucial for checking China's growing influence in the Indian Ocean. The project is seen as a strategic and economic win.

A peculiar DIY home security trend involves wrapping doorknobs in aluminum foil. This simple, inexpensive trick acts as a tamper indicator and an auditory alarm, alerting homeowners to potential intruders. Research suggests that even subtle environmental cues, like the foil's reflective surface and potential noise, can deter burglars by increasing their perceived risk of being caught.

India asks listed companies to disclose corruption under BRSR. But when private-to-private bribery is not even a criminal offence, the disclosure is meaningless. The UK, Singapore, and Hong Kong closed this gap decades ago. India must too.

Tamil Nadu's political landscape is shifting from a bipolar contest to a multi-cornered fight, with the DMK facing anti-incumbency and a fragmented opposition. New entrant TVK and established players like AIADMK and NTK are vying for influence, making this election a crucial transition phase for the state's political future.

While Trump has signalled a willingness for negotiation, Tehran’s warning has exposed a deeper risk: the Gulf countries' heavy reliance on desalination plants, where any disruption could trigger a devastating crisis for millions

Citing the slow progress in cases of environmental crime, particularly the destruction of mangroves, three ecology-focused groups have appealed to CM Devendra Fadnavis to set up a specialised green police.

US retail giant Wal-Mart has pleaded guilty to charges of environmental crimes, including mishandling of hazardous waste and pesticides, and agreed to pay a total of USD 110 million to settle the cases.