This current-affairs update, published on 13 March 2026, is about NHAI releasing the first National Highway Green Cover Index. The index uses ISRO satellite data to measure tree cover along national highways across India. The update is brief, but exam-relevant because it connects science and technology, the Indian economy, environmental monitoring, and infrastructure governance.
For prelims, the core facts are direct: NHAI released the index, ISRO satellite data is the data source, and the index measures tree cover along national highway corridors. Its stated use is to help track afforestation progress and environmental compliance on highway corridors. A likely objective question can test the institution-index pairing, the data source, or the purpose of the index.
For mains, the importance lies in governance and sustainable development. Road infrastructure is not only about construction; environmental compliance and afforestation monitoring along highway corridors are also part of administrative accountability. Satellite data allows green cover to be assessed across large highway stretches in a consistent way. The static-GK linkage is with national highways, remote sensing, environmental monitoring, and public infrastructure management. For RAS and UPSC-style preparation, the topic can be used both as a prelims fact and as an example under governance or environment in mains answers.