Welcome to SaralStudy’s Weekly Current Affairs roundup for the week of 3rd to 9th February. This week witnessed several noteworthy events shaping the political, economic, and scientific landscapes globally and nationally. From major government announcements and international developments to achievements in sports, technology, and culture, we’ve compiled all the essential updates to help you stay informed.
Weekly Current Affairs – 3 Feb to 9 Feb
Whether you’re preparing for competitive exams or just want to stay updated with the latest happenings, this comprehensive summary has got you covered. Dive in and keep yourself ahead with the key highlights of this week!
1. World Wetland Day
World Wetlands Day is celebrated every year on 2 February to spread awareness about the conservation of wetlands and their importance. In 2 February 1971 in Ramsar in Iran an international treaty was signed for the conservation of wetlands was signed. Wetlands are important for our ecosystem. Wetlands helps in maintaining biodiversity, conserve water resources and tackle climate change.
Theme for 2025 World Wetland Day
The theme of World Wetlands Day 2025 is “Sustainable use of wetlands: preserving water and life for the future”. This theme emphasizes that wetlands are important not only for biodiversity but also for mitigating the effects of climate change and conserving water sources.
Importance of Wetlands
- Centre of Biodiversity: Wetlands provide natural habitats for wildlife and birds.
- Water Management: It helps in storing rainwater and maintaining groundwater levels.
- Carbon absorption: Wetlands help in mitigating the effects of climate change as they absorb carbon dioxide.
- Source of Livelihood: Livelihoods of millions of people depend on wetlands through activities such as fishing, agriculture, tourism.
Goals of Wetlands Conservation
- Awareness Creation: Provide information about the importance of wetlands in local communities, schools, and institutions.
- Policy Reforms: Governments should formulate strong policies for sustainable development and wetland conservation.
- Involvement of Local Communities: Involve local people in conservation campaigns so that they become responsible towards their natural resources.
- Scientific research: Promote research on the environmental and economic importance of wetlands.
- Pollution control: Preventing industrial and plastic waste in water bodies and wetlands.
Wetland conservation efforts in India
India has many important wetlands, such as Vembanad Lake in Kerala, Harike Reservoir in Punjab and Deepor Beel in Assam. The Government of India has taken steps to preserve many wetlands under ‘Ramsar Sites’. initiatives of various environmental organizations and local communities are also playing an important role in wetland conservation.
World Wetlands Day 2025 reminds us that wetlands are not just water bodies but lifelines for our environment, economy and future. It is the responsibility of all of us to conserve them to ensure a healthy and balanced ecosystem for future generations.
2. Mathikettan Shola National Park
Recently, the presence of a rare bird, the Golden-headed Cisticola, has been recorded in the famous Mathikettan Shola National Park of Kerala. The golden-headed cisticola is famous for its golden head and distinctive chirping and is usually found in grasslands. Its presence reflects the unique ecosystem of Mathikettan.
- Mathikettan Shola National Park is situated in Poopara village of Idukki district of Kerala state.
- The total area under Mathikettan Shola National Park is 12.82 sq. km.
- This national park was established in November 2003.
- Mathikettan Shola National Park is situated near other reserved forests named Eravikulam National Park and Pampadam Shola National Park.
- Two viewing centers named Njandaar Mettu and Uchilukuth Mettu are for this national park.
- Locals say about this national park that one forgets the path once he enters into the park; that’s why it is known as “Mathikettan” as in Tamil Mathikettan means ‘one who had his mind confused’.
- Some area of this national park was used for production of cardamom before it is notified as national park.
- This national park is home to the Muthavan tribes.
- Uchillkuthi Puzha, Mathikettan Puzha, and Njandar streams originates from hills of Mathikettan which are tributaries of Panniyar.
- Evergreen forests, shola grasslands, moist deciduous forests and semi-evergreens made up its vegetation.
Also Read: Current Affairs (27th January-2nd February) & Waqf amendment bill, Budget, Nagoba Jatra and more
