In a major boost for the city's growth, the national capital region planning board (NCRPB) on Monday declared Jaipur as the Counter Magnate Area.

In a move that will give the better and cleanear environment agenda a boost, the reach of Euro-IV fuel (diesel and petrol) will be expanded to seven more cities in the current financial year. This less polluting fuel was launched about a year ago in 13 cities.

A monitoring investigation has been carried out in selected areas of northern India, viz. Agra, Mathura, Firozabad and Bharatpur. It reveals that Noise Level Standards and Guidelines are notified in the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986 are yet to be compiled at almost all areas, particularly during night hours.

JULY 2008: Hope had almost died, much like the sanctuary at Bharatpur, starved of water and life for nearly five years. As the monsoon approached, many a hopeful eye looked to the sky. This time, the gods did not disappoint and rain drenched a parched earth.

Faint Flappings Of the 78 endangered bird species in India, 13 are at extreme risk. * 1) Himalayan Quail

The growing problems in providing adequate drinking water to urban populations is a consequence of the lack of long-term planning and inefficient management of urban water usage.