Urban Tree Census and Green Space Survey
- Forest Department to launch a comprehensive tree census and green space survey in six major cities: Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Madurai, Tiruchi, Salem.
- The Forest Department has allocated ₹90 lakh for the project.
- Purpose of the survey:
- Map extent, distribution, and density of green spaces.
- Use high-resolution satellite imagery and advanced geospatial technologies.
- Urban Tree Inventory:
- Geo-tagging and identifying each tree species.
- Record details such as species, trunk diameter, height, canopy width, and health condition.
- Special focus will be given to indigenous and heritage trees and Trees Outside Forests (TOFs).
- Ecological services assessment: Measure benefits like carbon sequestration, air pollution reduction, storm-water management, and urban heat island mitigation.
- Web-Based Dashboard: A major component is the development of a dashboard that integrates satellite data, GIS mapping, AI-powered image processing, and ecosystem service modelling to provide real-time insights for data-driven planning.
- Integration: The results and recommendations will be incorporated into city master plans and climate resilience strategies to enhance biodiversity and climate adaptation efforts.
‘TN 100 Chip Varsity’ Programme
- Guidance Tamil Nadu and iVP Semi launched the “TN 100 Chip Varsity” programme.
- Aims to strengthen Tamil Nadu’s semiconductor ecosystem.
- Official Launch: A MoU formalizing the collaboration was signed at the TN Rising conclave in Coimbatore, in the presence of Chief Minister.
- Objectives
- Develop 100 new chip designs.
- Train 5,000 students annually in advanced semiconductor design skills.
- Build a state-wide network of chip design facilities within engineering colleges.
State Initiatives
- Tamil Nadu Semiconductor Mission 2030 (TNSM 2030): ₹500-crore fund, including Semiconductor Design Promotion Scheme.
- Push to establish Centres of Excellence (CoEs) for: Chip design, Testing and Validation.
