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  • International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD)

    Why in the News?

    The ICIMOD has launched Air Quality Dashboard for Indo-Gangetic Plain.

    ICIMOD Air Quality Dashboard: Important Features

    • The dashboard provides real-time and forecasted air quality data for the region.
    • It uses a combination of ground sensor data and satellite imagery to give a comprehensive view of air pollution across local, sub-regional, and regional scales.
    • A dynamic timelapse powered by the Weather Research and Forecasting model with Chemistry (WRF-Chem) tracks the spread of PM2.5 across the region.
    • This model highlights the spread of pollution from hotspots like Lahore, New Delhi, and Kolkata.
    • It provides two-day forecasts, allowing communities, policymakers, and researchers to anticipate air quality conditions and take proactive measures.

    About the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD):

    Details
    • A regional intergovernmental learning and knowledge-sharing centre founded in 1981.
      • Idea of creating ICIMOD was first discussed at the International Workshop in December 1974.
    • 8 regional member countries of the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan.
      • HKH region encompasses mountain ranges, including the Hindu Kush, Himalayas, and Tibetan Plateau, extending from northern Afghanistan to Myanmar.
    Structural Mandate
    • Headquartered in Khumaltar, Lalitpur, and Kathmandu Valley, Nepal.
    • ICIMOD also has a Knowledge Park in Godavari, Lalitpur exhibiting ICIMOD’s research and field applications.
    • Country offices in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
    Functions and Powers
    • Collaborates with national and international scientific institutions, government agencies, donor agencies, and the private sector, both within the region and globally.
    • Key Role: Promotes partnerships among regional member countries to secure a better future for the people and environment of the HKH region.

     

    PYQ:

    [2012] When you travel in Himalayas, you will see the following:

    1. Deep gorges
    2. U-turn river courses
    3. Parallel mountain ranges
    4. Steep gradients causing land sliding

    Which of the above can be said to be the evidence for Himalayas being young fold mountains?

    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 1, 2 and 4 only
    (c) 3 and 4 only
    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

  • Gandhamardan Hills, Odisha

    Why in the News?

    The Odisha government has clarified that it will not allow bauxite mining in the Gandhamardan hills after concerns arose when the Adani Group’s subsidiary acquired 112 acres of land near the hills.

    Gandhamardan Hills, Odisha

    About Gandhamardan Hills:

    Geographical Features
    • Situated in the western part of Odisha, spread across the Bargarh and Bolangir districts.
    • Covers an area of 190 square kilometers.
    • Dense forests and hill slopes.
    • Plays a crucial role in sustaining the livelihoods of local communities.
    Mines and Minerals Found
    • Bauxite: Primary ore of aluminum.
    • Graphite: Used in industrial applications.
    • Manganese: Important for steel manufacturing.
    Significance Cultural Sites:

    1. Nrusinghanath Temple: A major pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Nrusingha, a half-lion, half-human incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
    2. Harishankar Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva and Vishnu, set amidst picturesque surroundings.

    Hiuen Tsang described the hill shrine as a Buddhist heritage site named Parimalagiri in his chronicles.

    – Flora: Rich in medicinal plants.
    – Fauna: Rich biodiversity, including diverse wildlife species.

    Dasycarpa and spider peucetia harishankarensis are endemic to this hill.

    Declared as a Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS) by the Odisha government in March 2023 (making 37th BHS in India).

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] Consider the following pairs :

    Place of Pilgrimage: Location

    1. Srisailam : Nallamala Hills

    2. Omkareshwar : Satmala Hills

    3. Pushkar: Mahadeo Hills

    Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [pib] SHAKTI Yojana

    Why in the News?

    The SHAKTI Yojana plays a crucial role in enhancing the reliability of coal supply for India’s power sector.

    About SHAKTI Yojana:

    Details • SHAKTI stands for Scheme for Harnessing and Allocating Koyala Transparently in India.
    • Introduced by: Ministry of Coal, Government of India.
    • Launched in 2018, with amendments in March 2019 and November 2023.
    • Purpose: Ensure transparent coal allocation to the power sector, especially stressed power units facing coal shortages.
    Objective Allocate coal supplies to power plants that are unable to secure adequate fuel, ensuring consistent and transparent coal supply to power plants.

    Features:

    Fuel Supply Agreement (FSA): Coal supplied through FSA with Letter of Assurance (LoA) holders, ensuring continuation of supply at 75% of the Annual Contracted Quantity (ACQ).

    Coal Linkages: Linkages granted to State/Central Generating Companies and Independent Power Producers (IPPs) with Long-Term PPAs.
    Significance • Ensures coal supply to stressed units, supporting new power plants and promoting transparency in coal allocation.
    • Supports uninterrupted power generation by ensuring consistent fuel supply.

     

    About India’s Coal Gasification Vision:

    To achieve 100 MT of coal gasification by FY 2030, with a focus on sustainable practices and reducing carbon emissions.

    • Incentive: Reimburse GST compensation cess on coal used for gasification projects for 10 years, contingent on cess extension beyond FY27.
    • Target: Attract both Government PSUs and the Private Sector to drive innovation and investment in coal gasification.
    • Process: Entities selected through a transparent bidding process; government support for eligible PSUs and private firms to implement projects.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] Consider the following statements:

    1. Coal sector was nationalized by the Government of India under Indira Gandhi.

    2. Now, coal blocks are allocated on lottery basis.

    3. Till recently, India imported coal to meet the shortages of domestic supply, but now India is self-sufficient in coal production.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [2nd December 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Research security should be a national priority

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) Analyse the multidimensional challenges posed by external state and non-state actors, to the internal security of India. Also discuss measures required to be taken to combat these threats.  (UPSC CSE 2021)

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains have focused on ‘Cyber Security’ (in 2022), and ‘Maritime Secuirty’ (2021).

    India ranks fourth globally in defense spending, behind only the United States, China, and Russia in terms of military budget allocation. To maintain its ranking and achieve its development objectives by 2047, India must invest more in research frameworks.

    Today’s editorial emphasizes the critical importance of enhancing research security, by taking an example of the United States as a means to protect national interests while fostering innovation and international collaboration. This content can be used as a successful case study to represent in your mains examination.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Recently, the US Government has come up with defense and security developments, particularly in the form of the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) new TRUST framework.

    • Research security has emerged as a pressing concern in the context of India’s national security too, particularly as global collaborations in science and technology increase.

    What measures are being implemented to enhance research security in India?

    The MeitY is developing infrastructure for advanced R&D in cybersecurity to promote indigenous skills and capabilities.

    • Technology Security Initiative with the UK: India has partnered with the United Kingdom to launch the Technology Security Initiative (TSI). This focuses on emerging technologies across sectors like telecommunications, semiconductors, AI, and biotech.
    • National Cyber Security Policy 2013: It serves as a comprehensive framework for enhancing the protection of India’s cyberspace by encouraging R&D in cyber security to develop technologies tailored to national needs. This framework has set up mechanisms like the National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC) to address cyber threats
    • Digital Personal Data Protection Bill (DPDPB) 2023: It includes the passage of the legislative measures, which aim to establish regulations for data processing entities to safeguard personal data and enhance privacy.
    CASE STUDY:

    The TRUST Framework (U.S.)The NSF has introduced the Trusted Research Using Safeguards and Transparency (TRUST) framework to assess grant proposals for potential national security risks. This initiative is designed to protect taxpayer investments in research while promoting beneficial international collaborations. The framework comprises three branches:
    1. Personnel Assessment: Evaluating active personnel appointments and positions.
    2. Compliance Monitoring: Identifying instances of noncompliance with disclosure requirements.
    3. National Security Considerations: Incorporating foreseeable national security risks into research assessments.

    Rebecca Keiser, head of the NSF’s Office of Research Security Strategy and Policy, emphasized that while it is essential to mitigate risks, the U.S. must continue to lead in science and innovation without succumbing to an overly cautious compliance culture.

    Why is research security essential for national defense?

    • Protection Against Foreign Influence: Foreign governments and entities often seek to exploit academic research for military and strategic advantages.
      • This exploitation can manifest in various forms, including intellectual property theft, sensitive data, and technological innovations. 
      • The Department of Defense (DoD) has highlighted concerns regarding foreign interference that jeopardizes the integrity of National research, necessitating robust security measures to safeguard against these threats.
    • Safeguarding National Interests:  Research contributes significantly to national defense capabilities and technological advancements.
      • The National Science Foundation (NSF) emphasizes that maintaining a secure research environment is crucial for fostering innovation while mitigating risks associated with foreign influence and espionage.
    • Enhancing Readiness and Capability: Defense research provides insights into emerging technologies and potential threats, allowing for informed decision-making regarding national defense strategies.
      • As noted in various reports, a decline in defense-related research funding can adversely affect a nation’s ability to respond to evolving security challenges.
    • Compliance with Legislative Mandates: Recent legislative initiatives, such as the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 and National Security Presidential Memorandum 33 (NSPM-33), mandate that federal funding agencies implement research security programs to protect federally funded research from foreign interference.
      • These policies require institutions receiving significant federal funding to certify that they have established effective research security measures. 

    What are the challenges faced by Security Research Frameworks in India?

    • Fragmentation of Efforts: Despite numerous initiatives, India’s approach to cybersecurity remains fragmented, due to insufficient collaboration among various stakeholders that hinder effective implementation of security measures.
    • Shortage of Skilled Personnel: There is a significant gap in the availability of trained cybersecurity professionals. Further, the government’s inability to address emerging threats promptly due to a lack of expertise in critical areas like cyber forensics and incident response.
    • Vulnerability of Critical Infrastructure: India’s critical infrastructure, such as power grids and communication networks, is susceptible to cyber-attacks, posing risks to national security. High-profile incidents, like the attempted attack on the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant, highlight these vulnerabilities.
    • Evolving Threat Landscape:  The rapid evolution of cyber threats, including advanced persistent threats (APTs) and state-sponsored cyber espionage, complicates the security landscape. APTs have sophisticated attacks that are hard to identify and counteract effectively.

    How can collaboration between researchers and government agencies improve research integrity?

    • Establishing Clear Guidelines and Standards: Collaborative efforts allow researchers and government agencies to develop clear guidelines for ethical research practices. Different governments can provide frameworks that outline expectations for research conduct, helping to prevent misconduct.
    • Enhancing Risk Management: Working together enables a systematic approach to identifying and managing risks associated with research activities.Government agencies can help incorporate security measures into research protocols to mitigate risks related to foreign interference and data breaches.
    • Facilitating Training and Capacity Building: Government partnerships can enhance the training of researchers in best practices for maintaining integrity. Different agencies/stakeholders can offer educational materials and training programs focused on ethical research conduct and compliance with regulations.
    • Encouraging Transparency and Accountability: Collaborative frameworks can include mechanisms for reporting misconduct or conflicts of interest, ensuring issues are addressed promptly.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/research-security-should-be-a-national-priority/article68935590.ece

  • [pib] Asia-Oceania Meteorological Satellite Users’ Conference (AOMSUC-14)

    Why in the News?

    The 14th Asia-Oceania Meteorological Satellite Users’ Conference (AOMSUC-14) will take place from December 4-6, 2024, in New Delhi.

    About AOMSUC:

    Details
    What is it? • It is a conference focused on the use of meteorological satellite data for weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and disaster risk management.
    • First AOMSUC was held in Beijing, China in 2010.• Held annually across various locations in the Asia-Oceania region, becoming a significant event for meteorological satellite applications.

    • Participants: WMO, NASA, ESA, JAXA, and other leading space organizations.
    Aims and Provisions • Collaboration: Facilitate regional cooperation in the use of satellite data.
    • Weather & Climate Monitoring: Improve forecasting and monitoring of climate patterns.
    • Disaster Management: Enhance early warning systems for extreme weather events.
    • Capacity Building: Provide training, workshops, and knowledge-sharing opportunities for local meteorologists and satellite data users.
    • Data Sharing: Promote satellite data sharing across countries.
    Significance • Regional Cooperation: Promotes stronger collaboration between Asia-Oceania countries, helping to address shared meteorological challenges.
    • Improved Forecasting: Facilitates the improvement of satellite data usage for more accurate weather forecasts and better disaster risk reduction strategies.

  • [pib] Exercise CINBAX

    Why in the News?

    The 1st edition of the Joint Table Top Exercise, CINBAX, between the Indian Army and the Cambodian Army commenced at the Foreign Training Node, Pune.

    Note: Aspirants must not get confused with Exercise SIMBEX, which is a bilateral naval exercise between India and Singapore.

    About Exercise CINBAX:

    Details
    • 1st edition of CINBAX is a Joint Table Top Exercise between the Indian Army and Cambodian Army.
    • Focuses on conducting joint Counter Terrorism (CT) operations under UN Chapter VII.
    Objectives
    • Enhance trust and camaraderie between the Indian and Cambodian armies.
    • Improve joint operational efficiency in peacekeeping operations.
    • War-game Counter Terrorism (CT) operations and explore strategies in cyber warfare, hybrid warfare, and other military tactics.
    Features of Exercise
    • 20 personnel from both the Indian and Cambodian Army contingents.
    • 3 phases: Preparation and Orientation, Table Top Exercises, and Finalization of Plans.
    • Focus on Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR), and the use of force multipliers in sub-conventional operations.
    • Showcase of indigenous weapons and equipment promoting ‘Atmanirbharta’ (self-reliance in defence production).

     

    PYQ:

    [2024] Which of the following statements about the Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023 is/ are correct?

    1. This was a joint military exercise between India and Bangladesh.
    2. It commenced in Aundh (Pune).
    3. Joint response during counter-terrorism operations was a goal of this operation.
    4. Indian Air Force was a part of this exercise.

    Select the answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 3

    (b) 1 and 4

    (c) 1 and 4

    (d) 2, 3 and 4

  • North Eastern Tea Association (NETA)

    Why in the News?

    • The North Eastern Tea Association (NETA) has appealed to Ministry of Commerce and Industry seeking permission for tea producers to sell their products through both private sales and public auction systems.
      • A gazette notification issued on February 26, 2024 has mandated that 100% of dust teas must be sold through public auctions.

    About North Eastern Tea Association (NETA)

    Details • NETA is an association of tea producers headquartered in Golaghat, Upper Assam.
    • Established in 1981.
    • A key constituent of the Joint Forum and the Consultative Committee of Plantation Associations (CCPA), Assam Valley branch.
    • Focuses on promoting the interests of its members and enhancing the tea industry in Assam.
    Structural Mandate • Presence: Strong presence in Golaghat, Assam.
    • Role: Represents tea producers and plays a pivotal role in the development of Assam’s tea industry.
    • Mandate: Advocates for improvements in the tea industry, assists with policy suggestions, and provides guidance on the development of the tea sector.
    Powers and Functions • Advisory Role: Provides expert opinions and advice to the government of Assam and its members on issues related to the tea industry.
    • Policy Advocacy: Urges for changes in government policies to improve the tea industry, e.g., suggesting the relocation of the Tea Board of India’s headquarters to Guwahati.
    • Industry Growth: Encourages high-quality tea production and advises growers to enhance the quality of tea to attract international buyers.
    • Small Tea Grower Representation: Advocates for amendments to the definition of Small Tea Growers, proposing that those holding up to 50.6 hectares of land be recognized as small growers.
    • Government Relations: Provides suggestions to the government for improving and scaling up the tea industry in Assam.

     

    PYQ:

    [2022] Consider the following States:

    1. Andhra Pradesh
    2. Kerala
    3. Himachal Pradesh
    4. Tripura

    How many of the above are generally known as tea-producing States?

    (a) Only one State

    (b) Only two States

    (c) Only three States

    (d) All four States

  • [30th November 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: A liberal arts degree is worth much more than realised

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) National Education Policy 2020 is in conformity with the Sustainable Development Goal-4 (2030). It intends to restructure and reorient the education system in India. Critically examine the statement.  (UPSC CSE 2020)

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains have focused on the ‘Primary Education System’ (in 2016), ‘Quality of technical and higher education’ (in 2015), and ‘Education system in India’ (2021).

    Reports indicate that while the Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) for higher education is projected to reach 50% by 2035, significant gaps still exist in terms of quality and inclusivity. While India is making strides in liberal education, challenges still exist with the issues of inequality and elitism.

    Today’s editorial highlights the often-overlooked value of liberal arts education in today’s job market and society. This content can be used to present the key arguments emphasizing liberal arts education for its long-term benefits, career adaptability, and essential skills development.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    There is an ongoing debate regarding the value of liberal arts education in the context of rising tuition costs, changing job market demands, and shifting perceptions about higher education.

    What are the long-term benefits of a liberal arts education in today’s job market?

    • Versatile Skill Set: Liberal arts programs equip students with a broad range of transferable skills, including critical thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities.
      • According to the Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U), 93% of employers prioritize these skills over specific majors when hiring.
    • Career Flexibility and Adaptability: The nature of the job market is changing rapidly, where liberal arts education fosters adaptability, allowing graduates to pivot into different fields as needed.
      • This flexibility is crucial as new job roles emerge and traditional ones evolve, ensuring that liberal arts graduates remain relevant and employable.
    • Long-Term Economic Benefits: While liberal arts graduates may start with lower salaries but many studies show that by mid-career, liberal arts majors can earn comparable or even higher salaries than those in professional STEM fields.
    • Cultural Awareness and Ethical Reasoning: Graduates develop nuanced diverse cultures and ethical perspectives that enable them to engage thoughtfully with international issues and contribute meaningfully to discussions on complex societal challenges.
    • Lifelong Learning and Research Skills: The curriculum of liberal arts education encourages graduates to learn to gather, analyze, and interpret information effectively, which is invaluable in any professional setting. This commitment to lifelong learning helps them stay competitive and relevant throughout their careers.

    How does this education prepare students for an unpredictable future?

    • Embracing Uncertainty: A liberal arts education instills a mindset that views uncertainties like the 2008 recession period as an opportunity for growth and exploration.
      • Graduates are equipped to thrive in environments characterized by change and ambiguity, making them well-suited for careers that require continuous learning and adaptation.
    • Social Responsibility and Ethical Awareness: Finally, a liberal arts education fosters a sense of social responsibility. Students are encouraged to engage with their communities and consider the ethical implications of their decisions.
      • This awareness is critical as society faces complex global challenges that require thoughtful leaders who can navigate moral dilemmas while advocating for social justice and sustainability.

    What misconceptions exist about employability in India?

    • Liberal Arts Graduates are Unemployable: Many believe a liberal arts degree leads to guaranteed unemployment. Despite a reported 47.1% employability rate among arts graduates in 2024, this statistic often overlooks the diverse career paths available to them, such as roles in marketing, journalism, and education.
      • For example, Graduates from institutions like Ashoka University have secured placements in prestigious companies such as McKinsey and American Express, demonstrating that liberal arts degrees can lead to successful careers.
    • Liberal Arts Education is only for Wealthy Students: There is a misconception that liberal arts education is an exclusive privilege for affluent students. However, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 aims to make higher education more inclusive, promoting interdisciplinary studies across various socio-economic backgrounds.
    • Liberal Arts Degrees Lack Marketable Skills: Another common belief is that liberal arts graduates lack marketable skills. However, a report by the Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) indicates that these graduates are often better prepared for roles requiring critical thinking and adaptability, which are essential in today’s job market.
      • For instance, business analysts with a liberal arts background leverage their critical thinking abilities to improve organizational processes, earning competitive salaries

    Way Forward: India’s education system is increasingly fruitful in delivering liberal and globalized knowledge through initiatives like the NEP 2020 and the growth of private liberal arts institutions. However, it faces challenges related to access and equity compared to more established systems in countries like the United States. Continued efforts are needed to ensure that all students can benefit from this evolving educational landscape.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/a-liberal-arts-degree-is-worth-much-more-than-realised/article68928000.ece

  • Indians need to share contraceptive responsibility

    Why in the News?

    According to NFHS-5, 97% of women and 97.5% of men are aware of modern contraceptives, yet the burden primarily falls on women, with female sterilisation being the most prevalent.

    What are the current trends in contraceptive decision-making among Indian couples?

    • Dominance of Female Sterilization: As of the latest reports, female sterilisation accounts for 37.9% of total sterilizations, while male sterilisation through vasectomies remains critically low at just 0.3%.
    • Decline in Male Sterilization: The use of male sterilization has been steadily decreasing over the past three decades.
      • Data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) show that the percentage of vasectomies has remained stagnant at around 0.3% in both NFHS-4 (2015-16) and NFHS-5 (2019-20), reflecting a broader trend of declining male participation in family planning.
    • Government Targets Not Met: The National Health Policy 2017 aimed to increase male sterilization to at least 30%, a target that remains unmet, indicating systemic issues within the family planning framework.

    How does societal perception impact men’s involvement in family planning?

    • Perception of Burden: Many men view vasectomy as an undue burden, fearing loss of wages and questioning their masculinity. Women often echo this sentiment, believing that men should not be “burdened” by sterilization responsibilities due to their economic roles.
    • Lack of Awareness: There is a widespread lack of awareness regarding the benefits and safety of vasectomies, compounded by misconceptions about their effects on libido and masculinity. This misinformation contributes to low acceptance rates among men.
    • Cultural Norms: Traditional gender roles reinforce the notion that women should handle family planning, leading to a lack of male engagement in reproductive health discussions.

    What strategies can be implemented to promote shared responsibility in contraceptive use? (Way forward)

    • Education and Awareness Campaigns: Initiatives should focus on educating both genders about reproductive health and shared responsibilities through school programs and community workshops. Early sensitization can help normalize discussions around male sterilization.
    • Conditional Cash Incentives: Increasing financial incentives for men who opt for vasectomies can encourage participation. Evidence from Maharashtra suggests that cash incentives have led to higher rates of vasectomy acceptance among rural men.
    • Training Healthcare Providers: Enhancing training for healthcare workers on no-scalpel vasectomies can improve service delivery, particularly in rural areas with limited access to skilled practitioners.
    • Public Awareness Campaigns: Drawing lessons from countries like South Korea and Brazil, India can implement mass media campaigns to reshape societal attitudes towards male contraceptive responsibility, emphasising the safety and simplicity of vasectomies compared to female sterilization procedures.
    • Policy Implementation with Concrete Steps: The government should ensure that policies are actionable, with clear steps outlined to achieve targets related to male participation in family planning efforts.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Discuss the main objectives of Population Education and point out the measures to achieve them in India in detail. (UPSC IAS/2021)

  • New study: more than 1.5 million die each year from wild/bush fire pollution

    Why in the News?

    A study published in The Lancet revealed that pollution from landscape fires, including agricultural burning in northern India during winters, may have caused over 1.2 lakh deaths annually in India between 2000 and 2019.

    What is Wildfire and Its Types?

    • Wildfires are uncontrolled fires that burn in natural landscapes, including forests, grasslands, and savannas. They can occur due to natural causes, such as lightning strikes, or human activities, including agricultural burning and land clearing.
    • Types of Wildfires
      • Forest Fires: These occur in wooded areas and can spread rapidly due to dry conditions and strong winds.
      • Grassland Fires: Also known as prairie fires, these occur in grasslands and can be beneficial for ecosystem regeneration but are destructive if uncontrolled.
      • Vegetation Fires: These include fires that burn through shrublands and other types of vegetation, often exacerbated by drought conditions.
      • Agricultural Burning: A common practice in many regions, particularly in northern India during winters, where farmers burn crop stubble to clear fields for new planting. This practice significantly contributes to air pollution.

    What are the Global and Local Impacts of Landscape Fire Pollution?

    Global Impact:

    • Death Toll: A recent study published in The Lancet estimates that globally, landscape fires are responsible for over 1.53 million deaths annually due to air pollution, with the majority occurring in low- and middle-income countries.
    • Health Risks: The study highlights that approximately 450,000 deaths each year are linked to cardiovascular diseases and 220,000 to respiratory diseases caused by fine particulate matter (PM2.5) released from these fires.
    • Geographical Disparities: The highest mortality rates from fire-related air pollution are found in countries like China, the Democratic Republic of Congo, India, Indonesia, and Nigeria.

    Local Impact (India):

    • Annual Deaths: In India alone, it is estimated that landscape fires contributed to about 2.55 million deaths from respiratory and cardiovascular diseases between 2000 and 2019, averaging over 120,000 deaths per year.
    • Seasonal Pollution: During winter months (October to December), northern India experiences severe air quality issues due to agricultural burning combined with cooler temperatures that trap pollutants close to the ground.
    • Socio-Economic Factors: The study indicates that deaths caused by wildfires are four times higher in low-income countries compared to high-income nations. Lower socio-economic regions face greater health risks from fire-related air pollution.

    What are the steps taken by the Government to the wildfire?

    • Forest Protection Division: Headed by the DIG of Forests, this division oversees forest fire management at the central level.
    • Community Involvement: The government encourages active participation in forest fire management through mechanisms like Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) and Eco-Development Committees (EDCs).
    • National Action Plan for Forest Fires (NAPFF): Introduced in 2018, the plan focuses on reducing forest fires by fostering collaboration between forest communities and state forest departments.
    • Forest Fire Prevention and Management Scheme (FPM): A government-sponsored initiative aimed at assisting states in effectively managing and preventing forest fires.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Community-Based Management: Enhance capacity building, training, and incentivization for local communities through Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) and Eco-Development Committees (EDCs) to actively prevent and manage wildfires.
    • Leverage Technology and Research: Implement advanced monitoring systems like satellite-based fire detection and promote research on fire-resistant vegetation to mitigate the impact of wildfires and associated air pollution.