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Telangana’s Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary faces forest fires in the Tadvai region. Established in 1953, it lies near Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana borders, traversed by the Dayyam Vagu River. Renowned for the Sammakkka Sarakka Jathra, it’s traversed by the Godavari River. Vegetation comprises tropical dry deciduous types with teak, bamboo, and climbers. Notable fauna include Indian gaur, giant squirrel, tiger, leopard, and various others like sloth bear and wild dogs.

Notes:
As of March 2024, water is disappearing from Cuatro Cienegas, Mexico’s vital desert oasis, due to agricultural activities. The oasis is the Chihuahuan Desert’s most important wetland, and scientists say it can help them understand climate change, the origin of the Earth, and the chances of life on Mars. However, water is being used for alfalfa crops and other agricultural activities, causing the oasis to dry up. As a result, communities have to bring in water by truck when there is gasoline, which is a costly expense.

Notes:
The Election Commission aims to ensure inclusivity in voting with new measures. Voters over 85 and those with 40% benchmark disability can vote from home. Polling stations will provide volunteers, wheelchairs, and transport. The Saksham App facilitates voting for PWDs. Permanent Assured Minimum Facilities (AMF) in schools aim to enhance election processes. Polling stations managed by PWDs and women, along with Model Polling Stations, promote accessibility and gender inclusivity.

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Kerala’s decision to opt for an alternative approach to smart electricity meters undermines government’s Rs 3 lakh crore smart meters project. Smart meters record electricity usage and voltage levels, aiming to enhance billing and collection efficiencies for distribution companies. The Smart Meter National Programme (SMNP) seeks to replace 25 crore conventional meters with smart ones across India. Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), a joint venture under the Ministry of Power, leads the implementation.

Notes:
The 148th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly was held in Geneva, Switzerland from March 23–27, 2024. The IPU is an international organization founded in 1889, with headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, as well as offices in New York, United States of America, and Vienna, Austria. A seven-member Indian parliamentary delegation, led by Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh attended the event. The IPU boasts 180 member countries