In a major leap toward self-reliance in defense technology, India is set to develop its very own fifth-generation fighter jet—the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) . In a historic move, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved an innovative execution model for the indigenous stealth fighter programme. This model brings together Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and private industry players in a competitive framework, marking a significant shift in how India approaches military aviation manufacturing. This bold initiative comes at a critical time, as China has already fielded two fifth-generation fighters , and reports indicate it will supply 40 J-35 stealth jets to Pakistan . Against this backdrop, fast-tracking the AMCA has become an urgent national security imperative. AMCA: India’s Indigenous Stealth Fighter Dream The AMCA project , spearheaded by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) , received its l...
Invasive Fish Species: Mosquito Control or Ecological Threat?
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has sought a response from the Central Government regarding the use of two invasive fish species—Gambusia affinis and Poecilia reticulata—as biological agents for mosquito control in India.
Common Characteristics of Both Species
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Environmental Tolerance: Survive in brackish water, high salinity, and extreme temperatures.
Gambusia Affinis (Western Mosquitofish)
- Native Range: Mississippi River Basin, USA (from Indiana to the Gulf of Mexico).
- Habitat: Found in freshwater bodies, especially stagnant ponds and slow-moving streams.
- Key Characteristics:
- Can survive in low oxygen environments.
- Viviparous: Give birth to live young instead of laying eggs.
- Aggressive nature: Preys on native fish and disrupts local biodiversity.
- Invasive Impact:
- Listed among the 100 worst invasive species (IUCN).
- Outcompetes native fish species and alters ecosystems.
Poecilia Reticulata (Guppy / Millionfish / Rainbow Fish)
- Native Range: Northern South America & Caribbean Islands.
- Habitat: Prefers shallow pools and streams.
- Key Characteristics:
- Highly adaptable and rapidly reproducing species.
- Used globally for mosquito larvae control.
- Competes with native fish species for food and habitat.
- Invasive Impact:
- Potential disruption of local aquatic biodiversity.
- Known to cause imbalance in freshwater ecosystems.
Ecological Concerns & NGT's Response
- Although these species help in mosquito control, their aggressive nature threatens native aquatic life.
- NGT's inquiry highlights the need for environmental assessments before widespread introduction.