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  • Preventive Detention is a ‘Draconian’ measure: SC

    Why in the News?

    The Supreme Court recently ruled against the Preventive Detention of a couple in Nagaland, emphasizing that constitutional safeguards must be strictly followed, and preventive detention cannot override fundamental rights.

    Court’s Key Observations: Preventive Detention as a ‘Draconian Measure’

    • Violation of Rights: The court ruled that depriving individuals of liberty without trial requires strict adherence to legal safeguards.
    • Lack of Justification: Authorities failed to prove that the detainees posed a credible future threat, rendering the detention unjustified.
    • Language Barrier: Detention orders were in English, a language the detainees did not understand, violating their right to be informed in an accessible manner.

    What is Preventive Detention?

    • Preventive detention is the detention of an individual without trial to prevent them from engaging in activities that may threaten national security, public order, or foreign relations.
    • Unlike punitive detention, it aims to prevent future crimes rather than punish past offenses.
    • Under Article 22 of the Constitution, preventive detention is allowed but with safeguards:
      • Time Limit: Maximum three months, extendable only if an Advisory Board (comprising High Court judges) approves.
      • Rights of the Detainee: Must be informed of reasons for detention (unless against public interest) and given the right to challenge it.
      • Judicial Review: Courts can strike down unjustified detentions.
    • Major Preventive Detention Laws:
      • Public Safety Act (PSA), 1978: Used in J&K; detention up to two years.
      • National Security Act (NSA), 1980: Up to one year for threats to national security.
      • Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (PITNDPS Act), 1988: For drug trafficking cases.
      • Conservation of Foreign Exchange and Prevention of Smuggling Activities Act (COFEPOSA), 1974: For economic offenses & smuggling.

    Supreme Court’s Landmark Rulings

    • Ameena Begum Case (2023): Preventive detention is an exception, not a routine measure.
    • Ankul Chandra Pradhan Case (1997): It aims to prevent threats, not punish individuals.
    • Harikisan vs Maharashtra (1962): Detention orders must be in a language the detainee understands.
    • Gold Smuggling Case (2024): Authorities must consider bail conditions before imposing detention.

    PYQ:

    [2021] With reference to India, consider the following statements:

    1. Judicial custody means an accused is in the custody of the concerned magistrate and such an accused is locked up in a police station, not in jail.
    2. During judicial custody, the police officer in charge of the case is not allowed to interrogate the suspect without the approval of the court.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 only
    (c) Both 1 and 2
    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

     

  • Exercise Khanjar-XII

    Why in the News?

    The 12th edition of the India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise KHANJAR-XII is set to be held in Kyrgyzstan.

    About Exercise KHANJAR-XII

    • KHANJAR-XII is the 12th edition of the India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise, aimed at enhancing counter-terrorism and special operations capabilities.
    • It is a bilateral military exercise held annually since 2011, alternately hosted by India and Kyrgyzstan.
    • The 2025 edition is being conducted in Kyrgyzstan.
    • Participants:
      • Indian Contingent: Parachute Regiment (Special Forces).
      • Kyrgyzstan Contingent: Kyrgyz Scorpion Brigade.
    • The primary objective is to strengthen military cooperation, improve joint operational capabilities, and enhance interoperability between the two nations’ Special Forces.

    Key Features:

    • Counter-Terrorism Focus: Training in urban and high-altitude warfare to counter modern security threats.
    • Special Forces Interoperability: Strengthening coordination in joint military operations.
    • Mountain Warfare & Survival Skills: Enhancing operational effectiveness in challenging terrains.
    • Military Technology Exchange: Sharing expertise on weapons systems, surveillance, and intelligence gathering.
    • Reinforcing India’s Central Asia Outreach: Strengthening India’s engagement with Central Asian nations under its Connect Central Asia policy.

  • What is Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD) Indicator?

    Why in the News?

    The United Nations Statistical Commission has introduced a new global indicator on Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD) to monitor progress towards Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2: Zero Hunger.

    About Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD) Indicator 

    • The MDD indicator measures whether individuals consume a variety of foods within a 24-hour period to assess dietary quality.
    • It tracks progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger) and helps identify micronutrient deficiencies in populations.
    • It was adopted by the United Nations Statistical Commission at its 56th session (March 4-7, 2025, New York) and developed by Switzerland, FAO, UNICEF, and WHO.
    • The indicator records whether an individual has consumed at least 5 out of 10 food groups in the last 24 hours.
    • It is measured for children (6-23 months old) and women of reproductive age (15-49 years) to ensure adequate nutrition.
    • 10 Food Groups: It monitors intake from grains, white roots and tubers, pulses, nuts and seeds, milk products, meat, poultry and fish, eggs, dark green leafy vegetables, vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables, and other vegetables and fruits.
    • Significance:
      • It addresses hidden hunger, malnutrition, and non-communicable diseases by promoting nutrient-rich diets.
      • The indicator strengthens long-term diet monitoring and ensures dietary diversity remains a global priority beyond 2030.

    SDG 2: Zero Hunger – The Larger Goal

    • Adopted in 2015, SDG 2 aims to eliminate hunger and promote sustainable agriculture.
    • Recognizes interconnections between food security, rural development, and nutrition.
    • Hunger remains a global crisis:
      • 757 million people faced hunger in 2023 (nearly 10% of the world population).
      • One in nine people worldwide sleeps hungry each night.
      • 20 million people are at immediate risk of famine in South Sudan, Somalia, Yemen, and Nigeria.

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] Which of the following is/are the indicator/indicators used by IFPRI to compute the Global Hunger Index Report?

    1. Undernourishment
    2. Child stunting
    3. Child mortality

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1, 2 and 3

    (d) 1 and 3 only

     

  • India, Mauritius and a visit to deepen long-standing ties

    Why in the News?

    Prime Minister Modi will visit Mauritius on March 11-12, 2025, to strengthen relations with the new government and confirm India’s support for the island’s security and growth.

    What are the key historical and cultural ties between India and Mauritius?

    • Indentured Labor Heritage (1834 Onwards): Nearly 70% of Mauritians are of Indian origin, descendants of indentured laborers brought by the British to work on sugar plantations. Example: The Aapravasi Ghat in Port Louis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, marks the arrival point of Indian laborers.
    • Shared Freedom Struggles: Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, Mauritius’ first Prime Minister, worked closely with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose during Bose’s stay in London (1919-21). Example: Sir Ramgoolam proofread Bose’s famous book “ The Indian Struggle” and received an autographed copy in appreciation.
    • Linguistic and Cultural Preservation: Various Indian languages, including Bhojpuri, Tamil, Telugu, and Marathi, are actively spoken and preserved through cultural institutions. Example: The Mahatma Gandhi Institute (established in 1976) promotes Indian languages, arts, and culture in Mauritius.
    • Religious and Festival Ties: Hinduism is practiced by over 48% of the population, and Indian festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Thaipusam are widely celebrated. Example: The Ganga Talao (Grand Bassin) pilgrimage site is considered sacred and draws thousands during Maha Shivaratri.
    • Institutional and Diplomatic Links: India actively supports Mauritius through diplomatic and cultural outreach programs. Example: Mauritius hosts the World Hindi Secretariat, which is supported by India to promote the Hindi language globally.

    Why is maritime security cooperation between India and Mauritius crucial? 

    • Strategic Location in the Indian Ocean: Mauritius lies at a key maritime crossroads in the western Indian Ocean, making it vital for monitoring international shipping lanes and securing regional trade. Example: The Colombo Security Conclave (including India, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Bangladesh) enhances cooperation to ensure maritime safety.
    • Countering China’s Expanding Influence: With China increasing its presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) through infrastructure projects and naval activities, India’s partnership with Mauritius helps balance regional power. Example: India’s Agaléga Island redevelopment supports surveillance and counters China’s maritime ambitions.
    • Securing Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs): Mauritius has an EEZ of 2.3 million sq. km, rich in marine resources. Collaboration ensures these areas are protected from illegal activities like fishing and piracy. Example: India’s INS Sarvekshak recently completed an ocean survey of 25,000 sq. km in Mauritius’ EEZ to enhance maritime mapping and security.
    • Joint Surveillance and Intelligence Sharing: Surveillance cooperation enhances maritime domain awareness and secures trade routes against piracy, trafficking, and other threats. Example: Mauritius has access to India’s Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) in Gurugram for real-time maritime intelligence.
    • Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR): Close maritime ties enable swift disaster response and the delivery of humanitarian aid in times of crisis. Example: India provided naval assistance to Mauritius during the MV Wakashio oil spill disaster in 2020.

    Where has India invested in maritime infrastructure and security cooperation with Mauritius?

    • Agaléga Island Development: India is redeveloping Agaléga Island to establish airstrips and port facilities for joint surveillance and maritime domain awareness. Example: This facility enhances monitoring of maritime traffic and strengthens anti-piracy and anti-smuggling operations.
    • Coastal Radar Surveillance Network: India has installed a network of coastal radar stations in Mauritius to improve maritime security and real-time surveillance of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Example: This system helps track illegal maritime activities like smuggling and unauthorized fishing.
    • Access to the Information Fusion Centre (IFC-IOR): India provides Mauritius access to its Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR), which enables intelligence sharing and coordinated maritime operations. Example: Mauritius can monitor maritime traffic, enhancing its ability to protect its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and respond to emerging threats.

    What role does the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) play in their economic partnership?

    • Facilitating Foreign Investments: The DTAA between India and Mauritius prevents double taxation on income, encouraging foreign investments to flow through Mauritius into India. Example: As of March 2024, Mauritius remained India’s fourth-largest source of FPI, contributing ₹4.19 lakh crore, accounting for 6% of India’s total FPI of ₹69.54 lakh crore.
    • Strengthening Mauritius as a Financial Hub: The agreement has helped Mauritius become a major international financial centre, particularly for investments into India and African markets. Example: Many private equity and venture capital funds use Mauritius as a base to invest in Indian businesses due to favorable tax treatment.
    • Impact of Treaty Amendments on Investment Flows: In March 2024, India and Mauritius revised the DTAA to include the Principal Purpose Test (PPT), aiming to prevent treaty abuse and tax evasion. Following these amendments, FPIs withdrew ₹8,671 crore from Indian equities in April 2024, reflecting concerns over the revised tax implications.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Maritime Security Collaboration: There is a need to strengthen joint surveillance, intelligence sharing, and capacity-building initiatives to secure the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and safeguard maritime trade routes.
    • Deepen Economic and Financial Cooperation: The Government should adapt the DTAA framework to maintain investor confidence while fostering transparent, sustainable investment flows between the two nations.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Why was indentured labour taken by the British from India to their colonies? have they been able to preserve their cultural identity over there? (UPSC IAS/2018)

  • World Spice Organisation (WSO)

    Why in the News?

    Despite being the largest producer and exporter of spices in the world, India’s share in the global seasoning market remains only 0.7%, compared to China’s 12% and the USA’s 11%, according to the World Spice Organisation (WSO).

    About the World Spice Organisation (WSO)

    • WSO was established in 2011 in Kochi, Kerala, India’s spice capital.
    • It is registered as a Not-for-Profit organization under the Travancore Cochin Literary, Scientific, and Charitable Societies Act, 1956.
    • It works towards food safety, sustainability, and market development for the spice industry.
    • It engages with farmers, processors, industry leaders, academia, and global spice associations.
    • It works with organizations like Spices Board India, Rainforest Alliance, GIZ (Germany), and IDH (Netherlands).
    • Partners with global spice trade bodies like:
      • American Spice Trade Association (ASTA)
      • European Spice Association (ESA)
      • International Pepper Community (IPC)
    • Participates in national and international food safety regulations, including:
      • FSSAI (India’s food safety authority)
      • BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards)
      • ISO (International Standards Organization)
      • Codex Alimentarius (Global food safety standards)
    • It serves as the technical partner for the All India Spices Exporters Forum (AISEF).

    Present Scenario of Spices  

    • India currently exports 1.5 million tonnes of spices worth $4.5 billion, accounting for one-fourth of the $20 billion global spice market. However, only 48% of these exports are value-added products, with the rest being whole spices.
    • 85% of India’s spices are consumed domestically, leaving limited surplus for exports.
    • Countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, Brazil, and China are emerging as strong competitors in the spice trade.
    • Production:
      • Major producing states: Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Assam, Orissa, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
      • During 2022-23, the export of spices from India stood at US$ 3.73 billion, up from US$ 3.46 billion in 2021-22.
      • India produces about 75 of the 109 varieties listed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
    • Major Produced and Exported Spices by India:
      • Pepper, cardamom, chili, ginger, turmeric, coriander, cumin, celery, fennel, fenugreek, garlic, nutmeg & mace, curry powder, spice oils, and oleoresins.
      • Out of these spices, chili, cumin, turmeric, ginger, and coriander make up about 76% of the total production.
      • Chilli is the leading export earner, generating $1.1 billion annually.
      • Ginger exports have a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 27%.
    • Export:
      • In 2023-24, India’s spice exports totalled $4.25 billion, accounting for a 12% share of the global spice exports (till February 2024 data).
      • India exported spices and spice products to 159 destinations worldwide as of 2023-24. The top destinations were China, the USA, Bangladesh, the UAE, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, the UK, and Sri Lanka. These countries accounted for more than 70% of total exports.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] Among the agricultural commodities imported by India, which one of the following accounts for the highest imports in terms of value in the last five years?

    (a) Spices

    (b) Fresh fruits

    (c) Pulses

    (d) Vegetable oils

     

  • [pib] United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW)

    Why in the News?

    India’s Delegation led by Union Minister for Women and Child Developments will participate in the 69th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW).

    About United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW):

    Details
    Establishment and Mandate
    • Founded in 1946 by the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) through Resolution 11(II).
    • Initially focused on women’s political, economic, civil, social, and educational rights.
    • Expanded in 1996 to include monitoring the Beijing Declaration and integrating gender perspectives into UN activities.
    Structure and Membership
    • Composed of 45 member states elected by ECOSOC based on geographical representation.
    • 13 from Africa, 11 from Asia, 9 from Latin America and the Caribbean, 8 from Western Europe and other States, 4 from Eastern Europe.
    • Members serve a four-year term.
    Key Roles and Responsibilities
    • Policy Formulation: Establishes global norms and standards for gender equality.
    • Monitoring Progress: Reviews gender-related commitments, including the Beijing Declaration.
    • Advocacy and Awareness: Conducts research, publishes reports, and promotes women’s rights globally.
    • Collaboration: Works with UN entities, NGOs, and civil society organizations to strengthen gender equality.
    Major Contributions Drafted key conventions like:

    • Convention on the Political Rights of Women (1953)
    • Convention on the Nationality of Married Women (1957)
    • Convention on Consent to Marriage (1962)
    • Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) (1979).
    • Influenced the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948).
    • Led preparatory work for the Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing (1995).
    Annual Sessions and Key Themes
    • Held annually at UN Headquarters, New York.
    • Engages member states, NGOs, and UN agencies in discussions on gender-related policies.

     

    PYQ:

    [2009] With reference to the United Nations, consider the following statements:

    1. The Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of UN consists of 24 member States.
    2. It is elected by a 2/3rd majority of the General Assembly for a 3-year term.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 only
    (c) Both 1 and 2
    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

     

  • ‘Brahmastra’ Missile

    Why in the News?

    Indian scientists have achieved a breakthrough in hypersonic missile technology, developing a modern-day ‘Brahmastra’ with an astonishing speed of 12,144 km per hour (Mach 10).

    'Brahmastra' Missile

    About Brahmastra (Long Range Anti-Ship Missile – LRAShM): 

    • Brahmastra is a state-of-the-art hypersonic glide missile developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
    • It is designed to neutralize enemy warships and strategic naval targets with extreme speed and precision.
    • With a speed of Mach 10 (12,144 km/h) and a range of 1,500 km, Brahmastra is one of the fastest and most lethal weapons in India’s defense arsenal.
    • The missile’s hypersonic glide vehicle technology allows it to evade enemy radar and missile defense systems, ensuring high-precision strikes on naval targets.

    Features of Brahmastra:

    • It can be launched from both land and naval platforms, enhancing India’s maritime strike capabilities.
    • Due to its hypersonic speed, Brahmastra can destroy an enemy warship within 7 to 8 minutes of launch.
    • The missile is built with advanced heat-resistant materials, preventing it from disintegrating under extreme temperatures during flight.
    • Unlike conventional missiles, Brahmastra retains its structural integrity even at hypersonic speeds, ensuring precise impact.
    • It uses scramjet propulsion and glide vehicle technology for sustained hypersonic flight.
    • It can adjust its trajectory mid-flight, making it highly maneuverable and difficult to intercept.
    • Its stealth and radar-evading capabilities ensure low detection probability, reducing the risk of interception.

    PYQ:

    [2014] Which reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. It is a surface-to-surface missile.

    2. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only.

    3. It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • Places in news: Anchar Lake

    Why in the News?

    Anchar Lake, a vital water body in Kashmir, is renowned for producing Nadru (lotus stem), an aquatic delicacy that holds cultural, culinary, and economic significance in the region.

    Places in news: Anchar Lake

    About Anchar Lake 

    • Anchar Lake is situated in Soura, Srinagar near Ganderbal.
    • It is connected to Dal Lake via Amir Khan Nallah, which passes through Gilsar and Khushal Sar Lakes.
    • The lake is a part of the Sindh River Delta and plays a crucial role in supporting local aquatic ecosystems.
    • It is an integral part of the Shallabugh Wetland, which covers 1,675 hectares and serves as a designated bird sanctuary.
    • Its features:
      • It provides an essential habitat for migratory birds and various native aquatic species.
      • It functions as a flood-control reservoir, receiving excess water from Dal Lake during heavy rainfall.
      • It is home to the Hanji community, whose livelihood traditionally depended on fishing and other lake-based activities.

    PYQ:

    [2018] Which one of the following is an artificial lake?

    (a) Kodaikanal (Tamil Nadu)

    (b) Kolleru (Andhra Pradesh)

    (c) Nainital (Uttarakhand)

    (d) Renuka (Himachal Pradesh)

     

  • India needs to expand its trading base to overcome global headwinds

    Why in the News?

    The rise in the services Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) to 59 in February has brought relief to investors and policymakers.

    What is the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI)? 

    • The Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) is an economic indicator that measures the business activity in manufacturing and services sectors, indicating expansion if above 50 and contraction if below 50.

    What is the significance of the sharp rise in the services Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI)?

    • Indicator of Economic Expansion: A PMI reading above 50 signifies sectoral growth. The rise to 59 in February reflects a strong rebound in the services sector. Example: Increased demand for financial services and hospitality indicates higher consumer spending and business confidence.
    • Boost to Investor Confidence: A higher PMI suggests a positive business environment, encouraging domestic and foreign investments. Example: Global investors may increase FDI in India’s technology and telecommunication sectors due to sustained growth signals.
    • Job Creation and Income Growth: Growth in the services sector leads to higher employment opportunities and better wages. Example: The rise in IT services and healthcare sectors can create new jobs in software development and medical support.
    • Balancing Manufacturing Weakness: A strong services PMI can offset slowdowns in manufacturing, ensuring overall economic stability. Example: Despite the manufacturing PMI falling to a 14-month low, growth in financial services has maintained economic resilience.
    • Improved Fiscal Outlook: Higher activity in services increases tax revenues, improving the government’s ability to fund infrastructure and social programs. Example: Growth in e-commerce and logistics boosts GST collections, strengthening public finances.

    Which major challenges to India’s services and manufacturing sectors? 

    As per the industry leaders and NASSCOM’s 2025 Strategic Review report, the major challenges are :

    • Technological Disruption from Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI-driven solutions are transforming traditional business models, reducing revenue from new contracts, and reshaping hiring and training practices. Example: Automation in IT services is reducing the need for entry-level jobs, impacting employment growth.
    • Global Protectionism and Rising Tariffs: Increasing reciprocal tariffs and trade barriers, particularly from major economies like the United States, pose a threat to export-oriented industries. Example: U.S. tariffs on Indian textiles and pharmaceuticals may reduce market competitiveness and profit margins.
    • Slowdown in IT Sector Growth: India’s IT sector growth is expected to be 5.1% in FY25, a decline from its historical 16% CAGR, due to reduced demand and shifting client priorities. Example: Major IT firms report fewer large-scale outsourcing contracts as clients adopt in-house AI solutions.
    • Geopolitical Uncertainty: Geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions increase business risks and operational costs. Example: Disruptions in the Red Sea trade route affect electronics and automotive supply chains.
    • Potential U.S. Recession Risk: A U.S. economic slowdown could reduce export demand, significantly impacting both manufacturing and services, as the U.S. is India’s largest trading partner. Example: A U.S. recession may lead to fewer orders for Indian IT services, pharmaceuticals, and automotive components.

    How could the reciprocal tariffs announced by the U.S. impact India’s manufacturing sector?

    • Reduced Export Competitiveness: Higher import duties on Indian goods will increase prices in the U.S. market, making Indian products less competitive against local and other global manufacturers. Example: Indian textile exports to the U.S. could decline as higher tariffs make them more expensive compared to those from Vietnam or Bangladesh.
    • Disruption of Supply Chains: Tariff barriers may affect cross-border supply chains, increasing production costs and causing delays in delivery. Example: Indian automotive components exported to U.S. manufacturers may face disruptions, affecting just-in-time production systems.
    • Reduced Investment and Market Access: Tariffs create uncertainty, discouraging foreign direct investment (FDI) and limiting India’s access to the lucrative U.S. market. Example: Electronics manufacturers considering India as a production hub may shift investments to low-tariff countries to maintain U.S. market access.

    Way forward: 

    • Diversify Export Markets: Strengthen trade ties with emerging economies (e.g., Africa, Southeast Asia) and regional blocs to reduce dependence on the U.S. market.
    • Enhance Domestic Manufacturing Competitiveness: Promote Make in India, invest in advanced technologies, and offer export incentives to reduce costs and improve global market access.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Do you agree that the Indian economy has recently experienced V-shaped recovery? Give reasons in support of your answer.  (UPSC IAS/2021)

  • Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC)

    Why in the News?

    Researchers have found that the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) is slowing due to melting ice sheets. By 2050, it may weaken by 20%, affecting global climate, ocean circulation, and marine ecosystems.

    What is the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC)?

    • The ACC is the strongest and largest ocean current on Earth.
    • It flows continuously from west to east around Antarctica, acting as a boundary between the Southern Ocean and the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
    • It flows from west to east, driven by the westerly winds and the Coriolis effect, creating a loop that completely encircles Antarctica.
    • The ACC interacts with several regional currents, such as the Brazil Current, East Australian Current, and Agulhas Current.
    • It is influenced by both westerly winds and polar easterlies, which affect its strength and flow patterns.
    • Key features of the ACC:
      • It is five times stronger than the Gulf Stream and transports 130 million cubic meters of water per second.
      • It plays a crucial role in global heat and nutrient distribution, influencing climate patterns worldwide.
      • It prevents warmer northern waters from reaching Antarctica, helping to preserve the region’s ice sheets.
      • The ACC drives the global conveyor belt, regulating deep ocean currents and heat flow.
      • Its upwelling of nutrient-rich waters sustains Antarctic marine life, including krill, whales, and penguins.

    Why does Antarctic Ice Melt affect ACC?

    • Freshwater Dilution: Melting ice lowers salinity, weakening ocean density gradients that drive the ACC.
    • Slower Heat Exchange: Reduced current strength disrupts global heat distribution, leading to stronger storms and rising sea levels.

    Key Findings of the New Research

    A study by the University of Melbourne and NORCE Norwegian Research Centre, published in Environmental Research Letters, reveals:

    • ACC could slow by 20% by 2050 due to melting ice sheets.
    • Disrupted global climate as a weaker ACC reduces heat distribution, carbon absorption, and weather stability. 
    • Antarctic ecosystem at risk, with invasive species threatening penguins, krill, and whales.
    • Supercomputer simulations confirm that deep ocean circulation is slowing, worsening climate instability.
    • Reducing carbon emissions is crucial to prevent further ice melting and ACC weakening.

    PYQ:

    [2012] Consider the following factors:

    1. Rotation of the Earth

    2. Air pressure and wind

    3. Density of ocean water

    4. Revolution of the Earth

    Which of the above factors influence the ocean currents?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 1, 2 and 3

    (c) 1 and 4

    (d) 2, 3 and 4