Initiatives / Schemes Pharmacies to Display QR Code for Reporting Adverse Drug Events Context: Pharmacy outlets across Tamil Nadu have begun displaying a QR code to help the public report suspected adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has directed all retail and wholesale pharmacies nationwide to display the QR code at a prominent location. The initiative aims to strengthen patient safety and pharmacovigilance. Tamil Nadu is the first State to implement this initiative. Environment First Phase of Nationwide Tiger Estimation Exercise Context: The first phase of the All India Tiger Estimation (AITE) 2026 will begin in Tamil Nadu on January 5. AITE is the world’s largest wildlife monitoring exercise, conducted once every four years. It is carried out by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and the Wildlife Institute of India (WII). In the state, the Tamil Nadu Forest Department conducts the survey work. The survey assesses Tiger populations Co-predators such as leopards, wild dogs, and hyenas Prey base including gaur, sambar deer, spotted deer, and barking deer. Tamil Nadu, which is home to five tiger reserves — Kalakad Mundanthurai, Anamalai, Mudumalai, Sathyamangalam, and Srivilliputhur-Megamalai. The State’s tiger population increased from 264 (2018) to 306 (2022). The main methods employed are pugmark analysis, scat analysis (DNA testing), camera trapping, radio-collaring, remote sensing, and data management through the M-STrIPES software. The final report of the 2026 census will be released in 2027.
