GEOGRAPHY OF INDIA

Environment and ecology
Indians’ lifespan will increase by 3.5 years
▪ A University of Chicago Energy Policy Institute report states that reducing India’s air pollution to global standards could increase average lifespan by 3.5 years.
▪ Air pollution in India was higher in 2023 than 2022, exceeding WHO guidelines by 8 times.
▪ The northern plains, home to 38.9% of India’s population, could see a 5-year lifespan increase if pollution is reduced to WHO standards.
▪ Delhi residents could gain 8.2 years.
▪ Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra are also significantly affected by air pollution.
Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary
▪ The Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, in Madurantakam taluk of Chengalpattu district, was established in 1936.
▪ It is the oldest water bird sanctuary in India.
▪ It was recognised as a Ramsar site in 2022. Each year, the sanctuary attracts more than 40,000
migratory birds, including species from as far as Europe and Central Asia.