Environment Integrated bird census An integrated bird census is scheduled to be conducted across Tamil Nadu on December 27th and 28th to monitor the population and diversity of birds. This exercise is conducted annually at the state level to monitor the population and diversity of birds. The Tamil Nadu Forest Department intends to conduct the integrated bird census for the year 2025-2026 in two phases. The first phase will include a wetland bird census (inland and coastal wetlands), and the second phase will include a terrestrial bird census. India ranks 8th globally in bird species diversity, and Tamil Nadu's wetlands and forests play a crucial role in this richness. Tamil Nadu is implementing several flagship projects, including the establishment of a hornbill conservation centre and undertaking conservation efforts. These also include the establishment of a raptor research foundation at the Advanced Institute for Wildlife Conservation (AIWC), and the establishment of an international bird conservation centre in Marakkanam, near Puducherry. History and Culture A flood submerged the Keezhadi settlement a thousand years ago Archaeological excavations at Keezhadi on the banks of the Vaigai river reveal evidence of an urban settlement. Findings include brick structures, canals, floors, and pottery, aligning with descriptions in Sangam literature. A new scientific study has established an environmental timeline for the site. Based on these results, researchers concluded that the “urban-like” structures at Keezhadi were buried around 1,155 years ago due to major flooding of the Vaigai river. Researchers from the Physical Research Laboratory and the Department of Archaeology, Tamil Nadu used optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating to analyse burial sediments. This technique estimates when mineral grains were last exposed to sunlight. Highlights the role of natural environmental events in shaping the history and decline of ancient settlements.
