Current Affairs 23-October-2025

Kerala to Become First State Free of Extreme Poverty

Introduction

Kerala is set to achieve a historic milestone on November 1, 2025, when it will officially be declared the first state in India ‘free of extreme poverty’. This achievement underscores the state’s long-standing focus on social welfare, education, healthcare, and inclusive development, setting a model for other states to emulate.

Background

• Extreme poverty is defined by the World Bank as living on less than $2 per day (approx. ₹170).
• India has made substantial progress in reducing poverty, but regional disparities persist.
• Kerala’s success is attributed to decades of progressive social policies, high literacy rates, robust healthcare infrastructure, and targeted welfare programs.

Key Factors Behind Kerala’s Achievement

1. High Literacy and Education

• Kerala has a literacy rate of over 96%, the highest in India.
• Education has empowered people to secure better employment and improve household incomes.

2. Universal Healthcare

• Comprehensive public health initiatives have reduced disease burden and improved life expectancy.
• Access to healthcare has prevented medical poverty traps, where families fall into poverty due to medical expenses.

3. Targeted Social Welfare Programs

• Initiatives such as Kerala’s Public Distribution System, housing schemes, and direct benefit transfers have ensured support to vulnerable groups.
• Women’s empowerment programs and self-help groups have enhanced financial independence.

4. Inclusive Development Policies

• Policies focused on land reforms, rural employment (MGNREGA), and microfinance initiatives have helped eliminate extreme deprivation.
• Emphasis on social justice and minority welfare has contributed to balanced growth.

5. Effective Governance

• Transparent and accountable local governance structures, like Panchayati Raj institutions, have played a crucial role in implementing poverty alleviation programs effectively.

Implications

• National Example: Kerala sets a benchmark for other Indian states in achieving inclusive growth.
• Human Development: Demonstrates that sustained investment in education, health, and social welfare can eradicate extreme poverty.
• Economic Impact: Increased income and financial security stimulate local economies through higher consumption and productivity.
• Global Recognition: Positions Kerala as a model state aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 1 (No Poverty).

Challenges Ahead

• Preventing Relapse: Ensuring that vulnerable populations do not fall back into extreme poverty due to inflation, pandemics, or natural disasters.
• Reducing Relative Poverty: While extreme poverty is eliminated, income inequality and relative poverty remain concerns.
• Sustainability: Continuing progressive policies and welfare schemes amid changing political and economic conditions.

Conclusion

Kerala’s achievement as the first Indian state free of extreme poverty is a testament to inclusive governance, sustained welfare measures, and people-centric development policies. The state’s model demonstrates that extreme poverty can be eradicated through education, healthcare, social security, and equitable growth, providing lessons for the rest of India and the developing world.

Ladakh Talks: MHA Offers Key Provisions Under Article 371

Introduction

In a significant move toward addressing long-standing demands from Ladakh, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) held discussions with representatives from the region in October 2025. The talks focused on extending constitutional safeguards similar to Article 371 to Ladakh. This initiative seeks to preserve local autonomy, protect cultural identity, and safeguard land and employment rights without granting full statehood or Sixth Schedule status.

Background

• Ladakh was reorganized into a Union Territory in 2019, separating it from Jammu & Kashmir.
• Local communities, especially in Leh and Kargil, have raised concerns over loss of autonomy, cultural erosion, and land rights issues.
• Periodic protests, including the September 2025 unrest, highlighted the urgency for constitutional guarantees.

Understanding Article 371

• Article 371 of the Indian Constitution provides special provisions for certain states to protect cultural, economic, and administrative interests.
• States like Assam, Nagaland, and Sikkim benefit from these provisions, including autonomous councils, land protection, and legislative powers tailored to regional needs.
• Extending similar safeguards to Ladakh aims to balance regional autonomy with central governance.

Proposed Provisions for Ladakh

1. Legislative Powers for Hill Councils
   1. Granting Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDCs) authority over local governance, cultural preservation, and land use policies.
2. Land and Employment Protection
   1. Ensuring that land ownership and job opportunities remain prioritized for indigenous residents.
3. Cultural Preservation
   1. Supporting local languages, traditions, and heritage through dedicated policies.
4. Administrative Autonomy
   1. Strengthening decision-making powers of local bodies in coordination with the Union Territory administration.

Demands from Ladakhi Leaders

• Statehood: Many leaders advocate for full statehood to ensure greater political representation and autonomy.
• Sixth Schedule Inclusion: Some groups seek inclusion under the Sixth Schedule to establish Autonomous District Councils with enhanced legislative and executive powers.

These demands reflect concerns that Article 371-like safeguards may not fully address the aspirations of the local population.

Challenges Ahead

• Balancing Autonomy and Governance: Ensuring that extended powers do not conflict with Union Territory administration.
• Implementation: Effective monitoring and execution of legislative, land, and employment protections.
• Political Reconciliation: Managing divergent demands for statehood, Sixth Schedule, and Article 371-type provisions.

Conclusion

The Ladakh talks mark a critical step toward addressing regional aspirations and safeguarding the unique identity of the territory. The MHA’s proposal of Article 371-like provisions is a step forward, but the final framework must balance autonomy, governance efficiency, and local demands. The outcome will shape the future governance and socio-economic development of Ladakh, ensuring the protection of its cultural, economic, and political interests within the Indian Union.

Great Green Wall in Andhra Pradesh: A Natural Shield for Coastal Protection

Introduction

Andhra Pradesh (A.P.) is taking a bold step toward environmental conservation and climate resilience through the “Great Green Wall” initiative. This project aims to protect the coastline from degradation, prevent soil erosion, enhance biodiversity, and mitigate the impacts of climate change. By planting a continuous line of trees along the coast, the state is addressing both ecological and socio-economic challenges posed by rising sea levels, cyclones, and coastal erosion.

Background

• India has a coastline of over 7,500 km, with Andhra Pradesh featuring 972 km of shoreline.
• Coastal degradation, driven by sea-level rise, cyclones, unplanned urbanization, and deforestation, threatens livelihoods, agriculture, and fisheries.
• Inspired by Africa’s “Great Green Wall” project”, which combats desertification, Andhra Pradesh is implementing a similar approach tailored for coastal resilience.

Key Features of the Great Green Wall Project

1. Afforestation and Coastal Protection

• Planting mangroves, casuarinas, coconut palms, and other native species along vulnerable stretches of the coastline.
• Mangroves act as natural buffers, reducing the impact of waves and storm surges.
• Trees help stabilize the soil, prevent erosion, and enhance carbon sequestration.

2. Biodiversity Enhancement

• The green wall will serve as a habitat for birds, insects, and other marine-linked wildlife.
• Promotes ecosystem restoration in degraded coastal areas.

3. Climate Change Mitigation

• Trees act as carbon sinks, helping to offset greenhouse gas emissions.
• Reduces vulnerability to cyclones and rising sea levels, which frequently impact the Bay of Bengal coast.

4. Community Participation and Livelihoods

• Local communities, including fisherfolk and farmers, are engaged in planting, maintenance, and monitoring.
• The project provides employment opportunities while promoting environmental stewardship.
• Supports sustainable coastal livelihoods by preserving fisheries and agricultural lands.

5. Integration with Coastal Development Plans

• The Great Green Wall is part of broader coastal zone management strategies in A.P., including erosion control, wetland conservation, and eco-tourism development.
• It complements state and central government programs for afforestation, climate adaptation, and biodiversity conservation.

Implications

• Environmental: Enhances coastal resilience, prevents erosion, protects wetlands, and restores degraded ecosystems.
• Economic: Safeguards fisheries, agriculture, and local communities from losses due to climate-induced disasters.
• Social: Promotes community awareness and participation in climate adaptation efforts.
• Strategic: Strengthens India’s efforts to meet UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

Challenges

• Maintenance and Survival: Ensuring sapling survival in saline and cyclone-prone areas.
• Coordination: Aligning efforts between multiple government departments and local stakeholders.
• Climate Extremes: Addressing the increasing frequency of cyclones and unpredictable weather events that can damage the planted areas.

Conclusion

The Great Green Wall in Andhra Pradesh is a pioneering initiative aimed at protecting the coastline from degradation while promoting biodiversity and climate resilience. By integrating environmental conservation with community participation and sustainable development, the project demonstrates a holistic approach to climate adaptation. Successful implementation can serve as a model for other coastal states in India to address the twin challenges of environmental degradation and climate vulnerability.

India’s  Pursuit of Self-Reliance in Solar Physics and Space Weather Monitoring

Introduction

India is making significant strides toward achieving self-reliance in solar physics and space weather monitoring. This ambition is underscored by the nation’s commitment to advancing scientific research, developing indigenous technologies, and fostering international collaborations. Central to this endeavor is the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), which has been instrumental in spearheading missions and projects aimed at enhancing India’s capabilities in understanding solar phenomena and their impact on space weather.

Key Initiatives and Missions

1. Aditya-L1 Mission

Launched in 2023, the Aditya-L1 mission is India’s first dedicated solar observatory. Positioned at the first Lagrange point (L1), it offers an uninterrupted view of the Sun. The mission’s objectives include:

• Studying Solar Activities: Observing phenomena such as solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) to understand their origins and impacts.
• Understanding Space Weather: Investigating how solar activities influence the Earth’s magnetosphere and ionosphere, which can affect satellite operations and communication systems.

The mission’s success signifies India’s growing expertise in space-based solar research.

2. Project DISHA

The Disturbed and Quiet time Ionosphere-Thermosphere System at High Altitudes (DISHA) is an upcoming mission by ISRO aimed at studying the effects of space weather on Earth’s upper atmosphere. Scheduled for launch in 2024-25, DISHA will deploy twin satellites equipped with instruments to measure ionospheric and thermospheric parameters. This mission will provide valuable data to:

• Monitor Space Weather Effects: Assess how solar activities influence atmospheric layers.
• Enhance Forecasting Capabilities: Improve predictions of space weather events that can disrupt communication and navigation systems.

3. Project NETRA

Project NETRA (Network for Space Object Tracking and Analysis) is ISRO’s initiative to develop an indigenous space situational awareness system. It aims to track and predict the movement of space debris and other objects in Earth’s orbit. The project encompasses:

• Development of Ground-Based Infrastructure: Establishing radar systems and optical telescopes to monitor space debris.
• Data Integration and Analysis: Creating a centralized control center to process and analyze tracking data.

By enhancing India’s ability to monitor and manage space debris, NETRA contributes to the safety and sustainability of space operations.

Collaborative Efforts and International Partnerships

India’s pursuit of self-reliance in solar physics and space weather monitoring is complemented by active participation in international collaborations. Notably, India joined the Artemis Accords in 2023, aligning with the United States and other nations in promoting peaceful and sustainable exploration of the Moon and beyond. This partnership provides India with access to advanced space technologies and collaborative opportunities in space science.

Challenges and Future Prospects

While India has made commendable progress, several challenges remain:

• Technological Advancements: Continued development of advanced instruments and technologies is essential to maintain and enhance research capabilities.
• Funding and Resources: Securing adequate funding and resources to support ongoing and future missions is crucial.
• International Collaboration: Balancing self-reliance with participation in global partnerships requires strategic planning and diplomacy.

Looking ahead, India’s commitment to self-reliance in solar physics and space weather monitoring positions it as a key player in the global space research community. Continued investment in research and development, coupled with strategic collaborations, will enable India to address the challenges posed by space weather and contribute to the advancement of space science.

Conclusion

India’s initiatives in solar physics and space weather monitoring reflect a strategic approach to achieving self-reliance in space science. Through missions like Aditya-L1, DISHA, and Project NETRA, India is enhancing its capabilities to understand and mitigate the impacts of solar activities on space and terrestrial systems. As the nation continues to invest in research, technology, and international partnerships, it is poised to make significant contributions to the field of space science and ensure the resilience of its space-based infrastructure.

Ministry Releases State Mining Readiness Index Rankings

The Ministry of Mines has released the first edition of the State Mining Readiness Index (SMRI) rankings to assess and compare the preparedness of Indian states in the mining and mineral sector.
The index aims to promote transparency, efficiency, and best practices in mining governance while encouraging states to attract sustainable investments in the mineral economy.

Objective of the Index

• The SMRI is designed to evaluate how well states are prepared to explore, develop, and manage mineral resources.
• It measures readiness across parameters such as policy environment, infrastructure, technology adoption, environmental sustainability, and social impact management.
• The goal is to create competitive benchmarking among states and drive improvements in governance, ease of doing business, and resource utilization.

Key Highlights of the 2025 Rankings

• Odisha has secured the top position among all states due to its robust mining ecosystem and strong mineral-based industries.
• Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand ranked second and third, respectively, reflecting their significant mineral endowments and regulatory efficiency.
• Karnataka and Rajasthan were also recognized among the top-performing states for reforms in mining digitalization and community engagement.
• Himachal Pradesh and Nagaland were noted as emerging performers, showing improvement in sustainable mining practices.

About the State Mining Readiness Index (SMRI)

• The index has been developed by the Ministry of Mines in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology–Indian School of Mines (IIT–ISM), Dhanbad.
• It assesses both quantitative and qualitative indicators, combining production data, policy measures, and sustainability metrics.
• The framework covers six key pillars:
  
  
  • Mineral Endowment and Exploration
  • Policy and Regulatory Framework
  • Infrastructure and Logistics Readiness
  • Technological Adoption and Digitalization
  • Environmental and Social Governance (ESG) Practices
  • Investment Facilitation and Ease of Doing Business

Importance of the Index

• The SMRI provides a data-driven tool for the central and state governments to identify strengths and address weaknesses in their mining sectors.
• It encourages competitive federalism, pushing states to adopt reforms and streamline approval processes.
• It supports sustainable mining goals by integrating ESG principles into performance assessment.
• The rankings are expected to guide investment decisions for domestic and international companies seeking opportunities in India’s mineral sector.

Mining Sector Context in India

• India is endowed with 95 minerals, including 4 fuel minerals, 10 metallic minerals, 23 non-metallic minerals, and 55 minor minerals.
• The sector contributes about 2.5% to India’s GDP and supports millions of livelihoods directly and indirectly.
• The government has introduced major reforms such as:
  
  
  • The MMDR Amendment Act (2021) to enhance transparency in auction processes.
    
    Launch of the National Mineral Exploration Policy (2016) to attract private participation.
    
  • Expansion of District Mineral Foundation (DMF) funds for local area development.

Sustainability and Future Goals

• The Ministry aims to make India a global leader in critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements essential for clean energy technologies.
• The SMRI will be updated annually to track progress and align with national targets for Net Zero and resource efficiency.
• Future editions will include critical minerals assessment and carbon footprint indicators for the mining sector.

Conclusion

The launch of the State Mining Readiness Index Rankings marks a significant step towards evidence-based policymaking in India’s mineral sector.
By highlighting state-level performance and readiness, the index promotes accountability, sustainability, and competitiveness in mining governance.
The initiative is expected to drive greater investment, innovation, and environmental responsibility in one of India’s most crucial natural resource sectors.

Chhattisgarh Successfully Revives Blackbuck Population

The Chhattisgarh Forest Department has achieved significant success in reviving the population of the Indian Blackbuck through focused conservation efforts.
This success story marks an important milestone in India’s ongoing wildlife restoration initiatives and demonstrates effective habitat management and community participation.

Background

• The Blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra) is a species of antelope native to the Indian subcontinent.
• Once widespread across the plains and grasslands of India, the blackbuck population declined sharply due to habitat loss, poaching, and agricultural expansion.
• The species is currently listed as “Least Concern” under the IUCN Red List, but is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, providing it the highest level of legal protection in India.

Revival Efforts in Chhattisgarh

• The blackbuck, once locally extinct in parts of Chhattisgarh, has been successfully reintroduced and bred in controlled conservation zones.
• Key reintroduction programmes were carried out in Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary (Mahasamund district) and Sitanadi-Udanti Tiger Reserve (Dhamtari district).
• The Forest Department developed grassland habitats, ensured predator management, and involved local communities to minimize human–wildlife conflict.
• Continuous monitoring and use of camera traps confirmed steady population growth, with several new herds being sighted in the wild.
• The state also promoted awareness campaigns and eco-development committees to encourage public cooperation in protecting the species.

Present Status

• Recent surveys indicate a substantial increase in the blackbuck population within the state’s protected areas.
• The population growth demonstrates successful adaptation of the species to the recreated grassland habitats.
• Blackbucks have begun to naturally disperse beyond sanctuary boundaries, indicating ecosystem recovery.

About the Indian Blackbuck

• The blackbuck is known for its spiral horns and striking coloration males are dark brown to black with white underparts, while females are fawn-colored.
• It primarily inhabits open grasslands, scrublands, and lightly forested areas.
• Blackbucks are herbivorous grazers, feeding mainly on grasses and agricultural crops, which often leads to conflict near farmlands.
• Major populations exist in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Maharashtra, and Karnataka.

Conservation Significance

• The revival reflects a successful grassland management model in a region where forest-centric conservation typically dominates.
• Protecting blackbucks helps maintain ecological balance in open habitats and supports other grassland species such as the Indian hare, chinkara, and great Indian bustard.
• The initiative demonstrates how local-level conservation can revive species that were once on the brink of disappearance in specific regions.

Related Conservation Efforts in India

• Similar blackbuck reintroduction programmes have been implemented in Madhya Pradesh and Punjab.
• The Velavadar National Park (Gujarat) remains one of the most successful blackbuck conservation sites in the country.
• Several states are now focusing on grassland ecosystem restoration to support species such as blackbuck, nilgai, and caracal.

Way Forward

• Continued community involvement and habitat corridor development are crucial to sustain the growing population.
• Expanding grassland conservation under Project Grassland (proposed by the Wildlife Institute of India) can replicate such successes nationally.
• Integrating blackbuck protection with eco-tourism initiatives could provide sustainable livelihoods for local communities.

Conclusion

Chhattisgarh’s success in reviving the blackbuck population highlights how scientific management and community-based conservation can reverse wildlife decline.
The initiative not only restores a lost species but also revives India’s neglected grassland ecosystems.
This achievement stands as a model for other states aiming to balance conservation with local development goals.

IEA Predicts Quadrupling of Sustainable Fuel Use by 2035

The International Energy Agency (IEA), in its latest report titled “Delivering Sustainable Fuels: Pathways to 2035”, has projected that global use of sustainable fuels will quadruple by 2035.
The report highlights the critical role of these fuels in cutting carbon emissions and complementing global electrification efforts to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

What are Sustainable Fuels?

Sustainable fuels are energy sources that generate significantly lower carbon emissions compared to conventional fossil fuels.
They are essential for achieving net-zero targets and for decarbonising sectors where direct electrification is difficult, such as aviation, shipping, and heavy industry.

Major Types of Sustainable Fuels:

• Biofuels: Derived from biomass like agricultural waste or organic material; can replace petrol and diesel.
• Biogas: Methane-rich gas produced through anaerobic digestion of organic matter; used in power and transport.
• Low-emission Hydrogen: Produced using renewable energy or carbon capture technologies.
• Hydrogen-based Fuels: Include ammonia and synthetic hydrocarbons, made using hydrogen as a base component.

Key Findings of the IEA Report

• Global Impact: Sustainable fuel use is expected to increase fourfold by 2035, indicating rapid global adoption.
• Reduction in Oil Demand: As of 2024, sustainable fuels already reduced global oil demand by 2.5 million barrels per day.
• Emission Reduction: Expanded use of sustainable fuels could significantly contribute to keeping global warming within 1.5°C.
• Policy Role: The IEA emphasizes that without strong policy frameworks, the transition to sustainable fuels may lag behind global climate goals.

IEA’s Six Priority Actions for a Sustainable Fuel Transition

1. Create Region-Specific Roadmaps: Countries must design localized strategies to scale up sustainable fuel production and use.
2. Increase Demand Predictability: Long-term policy commitments and fuel standards are needed to attract private investment.
3. Ensure Transparent Carbon Accounting: Global methods for measuring carbon reduction must be harmonized.
4. Accelerate Innovation: Governments should fund R&D to lower the cost of sustainable fuel production.
5. Build Supply Chains and Infrastructure: Refineries, pipelines, and logistics systems need upgrading to handle new fuels.
6. Expand Access to Finance: Developing countries require low-cost funding to invest in clean fuel technologies.

Global Context

• Biofuel Expansion: Countries like Brazil and Indonesia are scaling up bioethanol and biodiesel production using sugarcane and palm oil.
• Hydrogen Initiatives: The European Union’s REPowerEU Plan and Japan’s Hydrogen Strategy aim to integrate green hydrogen into industrial energy use.
• Aviation Focus: The aviation sector is rapidly adopting Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) — made from waste oils and plant material — as part of decarbonization targets by 2050.

India’s Perspective

• India has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 and aims to blend 20% ethanol in petrol by 2025 under the National Biofuel Policy.
• The country is investing in compressed biogas plants and green hydrogen missions to cut reliance on imported fossil fuels.
• India’s G20 Presidency (2023) emphasized sustainable fuel transition as a key pillar for global energy security.

Significance

• Transitioning to sustainable fuels reduces dependence on volatile crude oil markets.
• Helps achieve national and global emission targets under the Paris Agreement.
• Creates new opportunities in green jobs, research, and renewable technology industries.
• Strengthens energy resilience by diversifying fuel sources.

Challenges Ahead

• High production costs and limited commercial availability remain major barriers.
• Need for large-scale investment in refineries, transport infrastructure, and technology transfer.
• Coordination between global standards, pricing, and certification mechanisms is still limited.

Conclusion

The IEA’s projection of a fourfold increase in sustainable fuel use by 2035 marks a major milestone in the global clean energy transition.
Sustainable fuels are emerging as a crucial bridge between today’s fossil fuel economy and a net-zero future.
For India, this transition aligns with its domestic energy goals, offering a pathway to cleaner growth, reduced oil imports, and enhanced energy security.

Tuvalu Joins IUCN as 90th Member State

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has officially admitted Tuvalu as its 90th Member State.
This marks an important step for the small Pacific island nation in strengthening its commitment to global environmental protection and biodiversity conservation.

About Tuvalu

• Tuvalu is a Small Island Developing State (SIDS) located in the Pacific Ocean, between Hawaii and Australia.
• It is one of the world’s smallest and most climate-vulnerable countries, consisting of nine low-lying coral atolls and islands.
• The country faces an existential threat from sea-level rise, with parts of its land area already being submerged during high tides.
• Tuvalu is a member of the United Nations, the Commonwealth of Nations, and several regional organizations in the Pacific.

About the IUCN

• The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) was established in 1948 and is headquartered in Gland, Switzerland.
• It is the world’s largest environmental network, bringing together governments, civil society organizations, and experts to promote conservation and sustainable resource use.
• The IUCN provides scientific data, develops conservation policies, and supports countries in implementing global environmental agreements.
• It currently has over 1,400 members, including governments, NGOs, and indigenous organizations, across more than 160 countries.

Key Functions of the IUCN

• Red List of Threatened Species: Maintains the world’s most comprehensive inventory of the global conservation status of species.
• Protected Areas Programme: Supports the creation and management of national parks, marine reserves, and biosphere zones.
• Policy Advisory Role: Assists governments in implementing international environmental agreements like the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and CITES.
• Climate and Ecosystem Management: Provides guidance on nature-based solutions to address climate change and biodiversity loss.

Significance of Tuvalu’s Membership

• Joining the IUCN allows Tuvalu to access technical and policy support for protecting its fragile marine and coastal ecosystems.
• It strengthens the country’s voice in global climate negotiations, especially on the issue of climate-induced displacement and loss of territory.
• The membership will enable Tuvalu to collaborate on marine biodiversity protection, sustainable fisheries, and climate adaptation projects with other island nations.
• Tuvalu’s inclusion also symbolizes the IUCN’s commitment to ensuring that small and vulnerable nations are active participants in the global conservation movement.

Broader Context – Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Climate Action

• SIDS collectively contribute less than 1% of global greenhouse gas emissions but face the worst impacts of climate change.
• Many, including Tuvalu, Kiribati, and the Maldives, are at risk of becoming uninhabitable by the end of the century.
• SIDS have been demanding greater international recognition and climate financing for adaptation and relocation efforts.
• The inclusion of such states in organizations like the IUCN amplifies their role in shaping nature-based climate resilience policies.

Conclusion

Tuvalu’s admission as the 90th Member State of the IUCN reinforces the importance of inclusive global environmental governance.
For Tuvalu, this membership is both symbolic and strategic , giving it a stronger platform to address the urgent challenges of biodiversity loss, climate change, and rising seas.
The move highlights that even the smallest nations have a vital role to play in safeguarding the planet’s natural heritage.