The Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology in India has recently proposed several measures aimed at tackling the pervasive issue of fake news and misinformation, acknowledging the growing concerns regarding its impact on public order, democracy, and national security.

Key Recommendations to Curb Fake News:

1. Fact-checking Mechanisms:

   • The committee has emphasized making it mandatory for all media organizations to establish fact-checking mechanisms and appoint an internal ombudsman to oversee editorial content.

   • The goal is to enhance transparency and accountability in media practices.

2. Penal Provisions:

   • Suggested amendments to existing laws to increase fines and hold media organizations accountable for spreading misinformation.

   • A clear definition of 'fake news' should be included in media regulations, while ensuring that these measures don’t undermine freedom of speech.

3. Strengthening the Press Council of India (PCI):

   • The establishment of a complaint portal and an independent monitoring body to increase oversight and ensure ethical standards in journalism.

4. Regulation of AI-generated Content:

   • Licensing for AI content creators and mandatory labeling of AI-generated material to make it clear to the audience that it is not authentic, such as with videos or social media posts.

   • This would help enhance transparency and reduce the spread of deceptive material generated by AI, such as deepfakes.

Why is it Necessary to Curb Fake News?

1. Threat to Democracy:

   • Fake news can manipulate public opinion, particularly during elections, skewing perceptions and undermining the democratic process.

   • It can disrupt informed decision-making and voter behavior, leading to electoral instability.

2. Disruption of Public Order:

   • Misinformation has led to instances of violence and social unrest in India. For example, the WhatsApp rumors about child kidnappers in 2018 led to mob lynchings in multiple states.

   • Fake news can create unnecessary panic and escalate tensions in society.

3. Erosion of Trust:

   • The spread of fake news erodes public trust in media institutions, undermining their credibility.

   • For instance, misinformation about vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic delayed the vaccination drive and worsened public health outcomes.

4. National Security Risks:

   • Misinformation can destabilize countries and create societal divides. For instance, during the anti-CAA protests of 2020, fake news fueled widespread protests and violence, raising concerns about national security.

5. Health and Safety Risks:

   • False health information, such as rumors about fake cures or medical treatments, can cause unnecessary panic and lead to harmful behavior.

   • Fake news can spread psychological stress, increase fear, and result in negative social and health consequences.

Challenges in Regulating Fake News:

1. Defining Fake News:

   • Defining 'fake news' is complex because it overlaps with opinions, satire, or commentary. There is no universal agreement on what constitutes fake news, making regulation a gray area.

2. Freedom of Speech:

   • Excessive regulation might infringe on the fundamental right to free speech under Article 19 of the Indian Constitution, leading to concerns about censorship and stifling dissent.

3. Rapid Spread on Digital Platforms:

   • Social media platforms enable instant sharing, making it hard for fact-checking to keep pace with the spread of misinformation. Once content goes viral, it can be difficult to correct the narrative.

4. Jurisdictional and Legal Issues:

   • Many social media platforms are based outside India, making it difficult to enforce laws or take legal action against foreign entities.

5. Technological Complexity:

   • The rise of AI-generated content, such as deepfakes and automated bots, makes it challenging to detect and regulate deceptive content effectively.

6. Anonymity and Accountability:

   • The anonymity of the internet allows individuals to spread false information without fear of accountability. Tracing the origin of fake news is a significant challenge for regulators.

7. Low Digital Literacy:

   • A large portion of the population lacks the necessary digital literacy to critically evaluate information online, leaving them vulnerable to misleading content.

8. Risk of Government Overreach:

   • Heavy-handed regulation could be perceived as a political tool for curbing criticism and dissent, which may further undermine trust in government authorities and the media.

9. Political and Social Polarization:

   • Fake news often aligns with political ideologies or social divides, making it harder to challenge and correct misinformation in polarized environments.

India’s Initiatives to Prevent Fake News:

1. Press Council of India (PCI):

   • Provides ethical journalism guidelines and oversight for media organizations.

2. IT Act, 2000:

   • Empowers the government to regulate online content and intermediaries.

   • The Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code (2021) mandates intermediaries not to host unlawful content. Failure to comply leads to loss of safe-harbor immunity.

3. Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact-Check Unit:

   • Actively counters government-related misinformation.

4. Election Commission of India (ECI):

   • Introduced the 'Myth vs Reality Register' to combat misinformation during elections and counter-fake news proactively.

5. Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C):

   • Provides a framework for tackling cybercrimes, including the spread of fake news.

6. National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal:

   • Allows citizens to report cybercrimes, including fake news, to law enforcement.

Robust Mechanisms to Strengthen Fake News Regulation:

1. Strengthen Legal and Regulatory Frameworks:

   • Laws must distinctly define fake news and avoid ambiguity that could limit free expression.

   • International examples like Singapore’s criminal laws on misinformation and the EU's self-regulatory code offer valuable insights.

2. Empower and Institutionalize Fact-Checking:

   • Fact-checking bodies should be certified by a central authority and audited regularly to ensure their credibility.

3. Platform Accountability and Regulation:

   • Social media platforms should disclose their algorithms and provide transparency on how content is amplified or recommended to users.

   • Platforms should also label AI-generated content clearly to inform users of its origin.

4. Leverage Technology and AI:

   • AI tools can be used to detect fake news at scale with human oversight, ensuring context-specific fact-checking for India’s linguistic diversity.

5. Promote Media Literacy and Public Awareness:

   • Incorporate digital literacy into school curricula, encouraging critical thinking about information shared on social media.

   • Utilize local influencers and NGOs to raise awareness about misinformation.

6. Inter-Ministerial Coordination:

   • A coordinated effort between MeitY, MIB, MHA, and Consumer Affairs can ensure a unified and consistent approach to tackling fake news.

By strengthening fact-checking, legal frameworks, and promoting digital literacy, India can improve its regulation of fake news while safeguarding democratic freedoms and freedom of speech. The task will require balancing technology with responsible governance, ensuring both accountability and transparency in the fight against misinformation

The Bonda Tribe, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) in Odisha, has recently been in the spotlight, with the Odisha Governor emphasizing the need for comprehensive development of their homeland, Bondaghati, in the Malkangiri district.

About the Bonda Tribe:

• Location:

  • The Bondas are primarily found in the Khairaput block of the Malkangiri district in south Odisha, near the borders of Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

  • They are one of the oldest tribes of India, with their origins tracing back to the Austroasiatic race, making them one of the earliest settlers in the region.

• Tribal Groups:

  • The Bonda tribe is divided into two distinct groups:

    • Lower Bondas: Reside in the Malkangiri district’s southern areas.

    • Upper Bondas: Live in the hilly and more remote villages of the district.

• Language:

  • The Bondas speak Remo, which belongs to the Austroasiatic linguistic family. This language is quite distinct from mainstream Indian languages, leading to communication barriers with outsiders.

• Cultural Practices:

  • The Bonda social structure is hierarchical, with decisions made by a council of elders. This council plays a crucial role in maintaining traditions and cultural norms.

  • Bonda communities are organized in small villages, which are typically structured around communal spaces where ceremonies and meetings take place.

  • Their architecture is adapted to the mountainous terrain with mud and thatched roof houses that suit the environment and climate.

• Traditional Clothing and Art:

  • The women of the Bonda tribe have a unique and traditional dress style, wearing semi-clad attire and accessorizing with rings and jewelry. They also wear colorful fabrics and jewelry as part of their everyday attire.

  • Bonda men also sport distinctive attire, often worn during ceremonial or cultural events.

  • The tribe is known for their artistic expressions, which include decorative tools, utensils, and their traditional craftsmanship in jewelry and textiles.

• Religion:

  • The Bondas practice animism, a belief system focused on nature worship and the veneration of ancestral spirits.

• Occupation:

  • The tribe's economy is primarily based on subsistence agriculture, hunting, and gathering. They cultivate crops suited to the hilly terrain and live in a self-sustaining manner.

• Challenges:

  • Literacy and Health: Only about 6% of the Bonda people are literate, and their life expectancy is considerably low, contributing to their population being at risk of extinction.

  • Isolation: The Bondas live in remote, hilly areas that are difficult to access, making it harder for them to integrate into the mainstream economy and society.

Key Issues and Development Needs:

• Government Focus:

  • The Odisha Governor has highlighted the need to focus on the development of Bondaghati, as the area is home to the Bonda tribe. This push is aimed at improving the living standards of the tribe and providing them with better healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

  • Preservation of Culture: Along with development, the Governor emphasized the importance of preserving the tribe’s cultural identity and traditions while fostering sustainable growth.

• Developmental Challenges:

  • The remoteness of the region makes it difficult to provide basic services like healthcare and education.

  • There is also a need for awareness around the preservation of the Bonda people’s culture and way of life, which is threatened by the encroachment of modernity and external influences.

• Support and Advocacy:

  • Government and NGOs must work together to ensure that development programs respect and uphold the tribe's values and traditions.

  • The Bonda people also need access to better healthcare facilities, educational opportunities, and economic empowerment without compromising their traditional lifestyle.

Conclusion:

The Bonda tribe represents one of India’s oldest and most vulnerable tribal communities, and their future hinges on balancing modern development with the preservation of their unique cultural identity. Comprehensive development plans for Bondaghati must focus on improving literacy rates, health outcomes, and infrastructure, while also ensuring that the tribe’s traditional values and practices are maintained. With the right policies and advocacy, the Bonda tribe can be empowered to thrive in a modern world without losing the essence of their cultural heritage

Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in Kerala, is facing significant ecological stress due to unchecked tourism, the proliferation of luxury houseboats, and decades of encroachment.

About Vembanad Lake:

• Location & Size:

  • Vembanad is the longest lake in India and is the largest lake in Kerala, stretching across several districts, including Kottayam, Alappuzha, and Kochi.

  • The lake is also known by other names such as Vembanad Kayal, Vembanad Kol, Punnamada Lake (in Kuttanad), and Kochi Lake (in Kochi).

• Source:

  • The lake receives water from four rivers: Meenachil, Achankovil, Pampa, and Manimala.

• Ecological Importance:

  • Vembanad is separated from the Arabian Sea by a narrow barrier island, making it a popular backwater stretch and an important water body in Kerala.

  • The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, located on the eastern shore, is a key habitat for migratory birds and wildlife.

• Cultural Significance:

  • Vallam Kali, also known as the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, is held annually in August and is one of the most famous traditional boat races in Kerala. This race, featuring snake boats, takes place on Vembanad Lake and is a major cultural event.

• Environmental Recognition:

  • In 2002, Vembanad Lake was included in the Ramsar List of wetlands of international importance, recognizing its ecological value.

  • The Government of India has also included Vembanad in the National Wetlands Conservation Programme.

Ecological Crisis Facing Vembanad:

1. Unchecked Tourism:

   • The rising number of tourists visiting the lake each year, coupled with increasing numbers of houseboats and luxury vessels, has placed tremendous pressure on the local environment.

   • Houseboats, in particular, contribute to water pollution and disrupt the natural aquatic ecosystem due to waste discharge, fuel emissions, and overcrowding.

2. Luxury Houseboats:

   • While houseboats are a significant part of Kerala’s tourism industry, many are not subject to stringent regulations, leading to an unregulated number of boats operating in the lake.

   • These luxury boats consume a disproportionate amount of water resources, alter the water flow, and affect water quality through the release of waste materials.

3. Encroachment:

   • Over the years, encroachment on lake areas by human settlements, tourism establishments, and agricultural activities have been a major threat to the lake's integrity.

   • Filling of wetlands and construction of buildings along the lake have not only reduced the size of the lake but have also led to the loss of habitat for various species of flora and fauna.

4. Pollution:

   • In addition to pollution from boats, industrial waste, domestic sewage, and agricultural runoff have contributed to the degradation of water quality.

   • The increasing pollution load is making the lake more susceptible to issues like eutrophication, where excessive nutrients lead to algae blooms and oxygen depletion in the water.

5. Climate Change:

   • Rising temperatures, changes in rainfall patterns, and sea-level rise due to climate change are exacerbating the situation. Increased salinity and changes in the hydrology of the lake can impact local wildlife and water resources.

Impact on Wildlife and Biodiversity:

• The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, located on the east coast of the lake, is home to numerous species of migratory birds. Encroachment, pollution, and water quality degradation are threatening their habitat.

• Additionally, the lake is an important breeding ground for various fish species and serves as a critical water source for surrounding communities. Loss of biodiversity can have serious ramifications for both local ecosystems and the livelihoods of the people who depend on the lake.

Government Action and Conservation Efforts:

• The National Wetlands Conservation Programme has been implemented to address the degradation of wetlands like Vembanad, but there is an urgent need for more localized action to tackle the specific issues of pollution, encroachment, and unregulated tourism.

• There is also a need for better regulation of houseboats and tourism activities to ensure that these do not cause further damage to the lake’s ecosystem.

• The Ramsar recognition of the lake can lead to international cooperation for its conservation, but this will require careful management to balance tourism with sustainability.

Key Recommendations for Conservation:

1. Regulate Tourism: Implement strict guidelines to limit the number of houseboats and tourism-related activities. This should include better waste management practices for boats and tourism establishments.

2. Strengthen Environmental Monitoring: Establish a comprehensive monitoring system for water quality, biodiversity, and tourism impact, ensuring regular checks and enforcement of environmental laws.

3. Awareness Campaigns: Educate local communities, tourists, and stakeholders about the environmental significance of the lake and the importance of sustainable practices.

4. Promote Eco-friendly Tourism: Encourage eco-tourism initiatives that minimize environmental impact while still providing economic benefits to local communities.

5. Rehabilitation of Wetlands: Actively work on restoring degraded wetlands, replanting indigenous species of flora, and reducing pollution levels in the lake.

Conclusion:

Vembanad Lake is not only a vital ecological treasure but also a cultural landmark for Kerala. However, its future is at risk due to unregulated tourism, pollution, and encroachment. Urgent conservation measures are needed to safeguard this lake’s delicate ecosystem, ensuring its health for future generations. The government, local communities, and tourism stakeholders must collaborate to develop sustainable solutions that balance development with conservation

As part of their long-range training deployment in the southwest Indian Ocean Region, the ships of the Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron (1TS)—INS Tir and ICGS Sarathi—recently arrived at Réunion Island, while INS Shardul reached Port Louis, Mauritius. This deployment is part of India's continued strategic outreach and strengthening of maritime ties in the Indian Ocean region.

About Réunion Island:

Réunion Island is a French overseas territory located in the Western Indian Ocean. It plays a crucial role in France’s strategic military presence in the region.

• Geography:

  • Situated approximately 680 km east of Madagascar and 180 km southwest of Mauritius, Réunion covers an area of 2,511 sq. km.

  • The island has an elliptical shape, measuring about 40 miles (65 km) long and 30 miles (50 km) wide.

  • It is part of the Mascarene Archipelago, which includes Mauritius and Rodrigues Islands.

• Volcanic Origin:

  • Réunion is of volcanic origin and consists primarily of rugged mountains and torrential rivers.

  • The island features the highest peak in the Indian Ocean, Piton des Neiges, and is home to the Piton de la Fournaise, one of the most active volcanoes globally.

  • The Marsouins and Galet rivers are the two largest on the island.

• Climate:

  • Réunion has a tropical climate, which significantly influences the island's flora, fauna, and agricultural output.

• Capital:

  • The capital city is Saint-Denis, located on the northern coast of the island.

• Political Status:

  • Réunion is a French overseas territory with the same political status as other departments in mainland France. It also serves as a key French military base in the Indian Ocean region, contributing to France's strategic interests in the area.

• People & History:

  • The island was first settled in the 17th century by colonists from France. Over time, slave labourers were brought in from East Africa to work on plantations. Later, the island’s population expanded through the arrival of Malays, Annamites, Chinese, and Malabar Indians as indentured labourers.

  • Today, Réunion’s population is predominantly of mixed descent, including African, European, and South Asian influences.

• Languages:

  • The official language is French, but Réunion Creole is widely spoken by the local population.

• Economy:

  • Réunion's economy is largely based on the export of sugar, with other products including meat, milk products, rum, molasses, tobacco, geranium essence, and vanilla.

• Geopolitical Importance:

  • As a French overseas department, Réunion plays a strategic role in French military operations within the Indian Ocean region and in global maritime security.

Conclusion:

The arrival of Indian Navy ships at Réunion Island and Mauritius underscores the importance of maritime diplomacy in the Indian Ocean Region. The Indian Navy’s active presence in these strategic territories helps foster cooperation and regional stability, contributing to enhanced partnerships with France, Mauritius, and other nations in the region. As India continues to assert its naval influence, these engagements play a critical role in strengthening its defense diplomacy and its broader geopolitical interests in the Indian Ocean

Health authorities in Andhra Pradesh have recently confirmed a case of melioidosis in a patient from Turakapalem village. This has raised concerns about the potential spread of the disease, which is caused by the Burkholderia pseudomallei bacterium.

About Melioidosis:

Melioidosis is a potentially life-threatening infectious disease caused by the Gram-negative bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei. The disease is seasonal, with the majority of cases occurring during the rainy season (75–85% of cases). The disease is especially concerning because of its high case fatality rate (CFR), which can range from 16% to 50% in known endemic regions.

Geographical Distribution:

• Endemic Areas: Melioidosis is primarily found in regions such as Southeast Asia, northern Australia, large parts of the Indian subcontinent, southern China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.

• In these regions, the disease has become an ongoing public health concern, especially during the rainy season when the bacterium thrives.

At-Risk Populations:

Melioidosis tends to affect individuals with certain underlying health conditions, including:

• Diabetes

• Alcohol use disorder

• Chronic kidney disease

• Chronic lung disease (such as cystic fibrosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD))

Symptoms of Melioidosis:

The symptoms of melioidosis can range from mild to severe and often resemble those of other illnesses. Common symptoms include:

• Fever

• Headache

• Difficulty breathing

• Stomach or chest pain

• In more severe cases, it can lead to pneumonia, septicemia, and organ failure.

Transmission of Melioidosis:

Melioidosis is primarily transmitted through contact with contaminated soil or water. Possible routes of infection include:

• Direct contact with contaminated soil, especially through cuts or abrasions on the skin.

• Drinking contaminated water that has not been properly treated (i.e., chlorinated).

• Inhalation of contaminated dust or water droplets, especially during severe weather events like tropical storms, cyclones, or monsoons.

• Exposure to contaminated soil during agricultural activities or other outdoor work.

Treatment:

Currently, there is no vaccine available for melioidosis. However, antibiotic therapy can be effective if the infection is diagnosed early. The treatment typically involves:

• Initial intensive intravenous antibiotic therapy.

• Long-term oral antibiotics to ensure eradication of the bacteria from the body.

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to reduce the high fatality rate associated with the disease.

Impact of Seasonal Factors:

Melioidosis is known to be seasonal, with most cases occurring during the rainy season. The increased rainfall can result in more contaminated soil and water, contributing to the spread of the disease. The ongoing monsoon season in India may contribute to the rising risk of new cases, especially in endemic regions.

The All India Debt and Investment Survey (AIDIS) and the Situation Assessment Survey (SAS) of Agricultural Households are set to be conducted from July 2026 to June 2027. These surveys are vital tools for collecting data on household finances, agricultural livelihoods, and socio-economic conditions.

All India Debt and Investment Survey (AIDIS)

About AIDIS:

• The All India Debt and Investment Survey (AIDIS) is one of the most important surveys related to household finance in India. It provides crucial insights into household indebtedness, asset ownership, and the economic conditions of rural and urban households.

• Origins: The survey's origins trace back to the All India Rural Credit Survey conducted in 1951-52. It was later expanded in 1961-62 to include both debt and investment and has been conducted roughly once every decade.

Significance of AIDIS:

• AIDIS helps policymakers and institutions, such as the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), and others, to shape national policies.

• It provides valuable information about credit markets, inequality in asset distribution, and household financial conditions.

• The findings from the survey are used to assess national accounts and formulate policies to address financial inclusion, improve access to credit, and reduce economic inequality.

Recent Survey (77th Round in 2019):

• The 77th Round of AIDIS was conducted in 2019 at the request of the RBI to gather data on household indebtedness and asset ownership.

Situation Assessment Survey (SAS) of Agricultural Households

About SAS:

• The SAS was first launched in 2003 to assess the economic conditions of agricultural households, and it has been continuously strengthened with each round.

• In 2013, the survey was expanded to cover all agricultural households and included data related to income, expenditure, indebtedness, and access to credit.

• The 2019 round made further enhancements to provide a more comprehensive view of the economic situation of farmers.

Survey Focus:
The SAS assesses several key aspects of agricultural households:

• Household Income and Expenditure: Tracks the economic inflows and outflows for farming families.

• Indebtedness and Access to Credit: Examines the level of debt among agricultural households and their access to financial resources.

• Land and Livestock Ownership: Provides data on ownership patterns and the condition of agricultural assets.

• Crop and Livestock Production: Examines the types of crops and livestock produced and the resources used.

• Technology Adoption: Measures the extent to which modern farming technologies and practices are being adopted by farmers.

• Access to Government Schemes and Crop Insurance: Evaluates the participation of farmers in government welfare schemes and their usage of crop insurance programs.

Significance of SAS:

• The data from the SAS is crucial for policy-making in the field of agriculture and rural development.

• It is utilized by Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, NITI Aayog, researchers, and financial institutions to formulate policies, implement programs, and allocate resources for agriculture and rural development.

Upcoming Survey Timeline:

Both AIDIS and SAS will be conducted between July 2026 and June 2027, providing a comprehensive dataset on household finance and agricultural conditions to guide future policy-making.

On September 11th, National Forest Martyrs Day was observed across India to honor the sacrifices made by forest department personnel and environmentalists who lost their lives while working on forest conservation.

About National Forest Martyrs Day:

Date of Observation: September 11th every year.

• Purpose: To pay tribute to the forest personnel and protective environmentalists who have laid down their lives in the service of conserving forests, wildlife, and natural resources.

• Significance: The day emphasizes the risks that forest officers and environmentalists face while carrying out their work in the face of illegal logging, poaching, and other environmental threats.

History of National Forest Martyrs Day:

The observance of this day traces its roots to the Khejarli Massacre that occurred in 1730 in the Marwar Kingdom (now Rajasthan).

• Incident: The Maharaja Abhai Singh ordered the cutting down of Khejri trees in Bishnoi village (Khejarli) to gather timber for the construction of his new palace.

• Resistance: The Bishnoi community, known for their devotion to nature, resisted the cutting of these trees, which they regarded as sacred.

• Protest: Under the leadership of Amrita Devi Bishnoi, villagers took a stand by hugging the trees to protect them from being felled.

• Outcome: Amrita Devi and 363 others were tragically killed during the protest while defending the trees.

• Legacy: The bravery of the Bishnoi community in defending nature became an inspiration for subsequent environmental movements, such as the Chipko Movement, which also involved hugging trees to prevent deforestation.

In recognition of their sacrifices, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) declared September 11th as National Forest Martyrs Day in 2013.

Significance of the Day:

• Tribute to Forest Defenders: The day serves as a tribute to all individuals and communities who have dedicated their lives to protecting nature from exploitation, illegal activities like poaching, and activities that harm the environment, such as deforestation.

• Raising Awareness: It underscores the vital importance of forests as not just natural resources, but as lifelines that help regulate the climate, purify air and water, and sustain biodiversity.

   

A new species of bent-toed gecko, Cyrtodactylus vanarakshaka, has recently been recorded from the montane forests of central Assam.

About Cyrtodactylus Vanarakshaka:

• Scientific Classification: It belongs to the Cyrtodactylus khasiensis group, a family of geckos characterized by their distinctive bent toes.

• Location: This species was spotted in the forested slopes of Dima Hasao’s Jatinga, which is a unique ecological transition zone located within the Barail Hills in Assam.

• Name Origin: The gecko species is named vanarakshaka, derived from the Sanskrit words:

  • Vana (forest)

  • Rakshaka (protector)

  The name vanarakshaka honors the Assam Forest Department, which plays a significant role in the conservation and protection of forests.

• Endemic Species: The species is known for its high levels of endemism and restricted distribution, making it a rare and important discovery in the region.

• Significance: This new finding brings the total number of Cyrtodactylus species known from Assam to five.

What is a Gecko?

• Reptile Family: Geckos are small, mostly nocturnal lizards that belong to several families, including:

  • Carphodactylidae

  • Diplodactylidae

  • Eublepharidae

  • Gekkonidae

  • Phyllodactylidae

  • Sphaerodactylidae

• Global Distribution: Geckos are found on all continents except Antarctica. They thrive in diverse habitats, ranging from tropical rainforests to arid deserts and cold mountain slopes.

• Habitat & Behavior:

  • Geckos are highly adaptable and can live in a variety of environments.

  • They are mostly small and exhibit colorful patterns.

  • Many species are nocturnal, hunting and navigating their habitats at night.