Traditional Indian Remedies for Summer

Addressing the 134th episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke about India’s traditional ways of coping with the summer heat. He noted that many effective remedies are found in Indian kitchens, with food habits changing as temperatures rise.

The Prime Minister highlighted the use of earthen pots for storing water, curd-based preparations, raw mangoes, and traditional beverages. He mentioned drinks such as panna in North India, lassi in Punjab and Haryana, buttermilk in Rajasthan and Gujarat, and sattu sharbat in Bihar, Jharkhand and eastern Uttar Pradesh.

Applauds Athletes for Breaking National Records

PM Modi congratulated Indian athletes for their outstanding performances at the National Senior Athletics Championships held in Ranchi. He pointed out that the national record in the men’s 100-metre race was broken three times within two days.

Athletes including Gurindervir Singh, Animesh Kujur, Vishal TK, Tejaswin Shankar, Dev Meena and Kuldeep Kumar were praised for setting new records in different events. The Prime Minister lauded their achievements and wished them success in future competitions.

Heritage Returns to India

Recalling his recent visit to the Netherlands, Modi highlighted the return of centuries-old copper plates to India. He said the repatriation of these historical artefacts brought immense joy to people across the country, particularly among members of the global Tamil community.

Conservation and Community Service

The Prime Minister also praised the successful rescue of a Gangetic dolphin in Uttar Pradesh. He commended the dedication of the rescue team, which worked for nearly 13 hours to save the endangered aquatic animal.

Modi further appreciated Kerala’s Saji Valasseril, who runs a unique “school in the river” initiative that teaches swimming and water safety. Inspired by a tragic boat accident, Saji has trained over 15,000 people, helping promote life-saving skills and community welfare.

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Bhitarkanika Sees Rise in Crocodile Numbers
The annual crocodile census at Bhitarkanika National Park has been successfully completed. According to the latest report, the total number of crocodiles in rivers and canals within and around the park has increased from 1,826 last year to 1,858 this year, marking a growth of 32 crocodiles.

Increase in Mugger Crocodile Nests
Last year, 16 nests of Mugger crocodiles were recorded in the park’s rivers and canals. This year, the census team documented 20 nests, indicating a positive trend in breeding and population growth.

Notable Sightings of Giant Crocodiles
During this year’s census, the forest department spotted three crocodiles measuring over 20 feet in length: two between Pattashalamouth and FRH Jethi, and one each between FRH Jethi to Khola Mouth and from Gupti to Hansina. These giant reptiles are estimated to be between 100 and 120 years old.

In addition, six adult Mugger crocodiles measuring 18–19 feet were seen at Gopaljiupatana, Kalibhanjdia, Shagunachara, and Bhitarkanika rivers. Experts note that the sighting of so many adult Mugger crocodiles in their natural habitat is rare in India.

Three-Day Census Conducted in January
The census was conducted over three days, from January 8 to 10. Apart from the crocodiles within the park, more than 300 crocodiles were recorded outside the park boundaries, indicating the species’ thriving population in the region.

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Extensive Six-Day Enumeration Planned Across 105 Beats

The annual tiger census in Keonjhar Forest Division is set to begin on November 20, covering 105 beats across the region. Along with tigers, the forest department will also conduct a population count of other wildlife species. Around 300 personnel, including forest officials, foresters, and forest guards, will be engaged in this large-scale exercise.

Two Adult Tigers Currently Active in the Region

Forest authorities confirmed that two adult tigers are currently moving within the Keonjhar forest limits. Given this, special training has been provided to all staff involved in the census to ensure maximum safety and accuracy. The process will begin with on-foot patrolling, followed by camera-trap–based monitoring.

Foot Surveys to Record Pugmarks and Scat Samples

From November 20 to 25, forest teams will be divided into four groups to conduct intensive foot surveys. They will record pugmarks, scat samples, and other evidence of tiger movement. Sandy patches near rivers and streams will be levelled to obtain clear pugmark impressions. Areas considered tiger territories will be given priority.

Use of M-Stripes Ecological App for Data Upload

All data related to the survey will be uploaded on time using the M-Stripes Ecological App, as instructed by the forest department. The compiled data will help determine the exact number and species of tigers present in the division.

Tiger Movement Linked to Similipal and Dhenkanal

One of the tigers in Keonjhar is believed to have migrated from Similipal, while the other likely arrived from Dhenkanal. To track their activities, 70 trap cameras have already been installed across protected forest zones.

Camera-Trap Monitoring from December to January

Between December 1 and January 15, both trap cameras and intensive camera-trapping methods will be used to monitor tiger movement continuously. Forest staff have been trained on the correct placement, height, and angle for camera installation. Cameras have been deployed in areas such as Ghatagaon, Patna, and Telkoi forest ranges.

Presence of Leopards Also Noted in the Region

Apart from tigers, the forests are also home to leopards (kolarapataría species), increasing the need for strict and error–free monitoring.

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