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GS Paper: GS3-18.Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment.

  • All about the revised Green India Mission to increase forest cover, address climate change

    Why in the News?

    The revised plan for the Green India Mission (GIM), released by the Centre on June 17, is an important step forward in India’s fight against climate change.

    What are the achievements of the Green India Mission since its launch in 2014?

    • Large-scale Afforestation Activities: GIM facilitated tree plantation and afforestation across 11.22 million hectares between 2015–16 and 2020–21. Eg: Afforestation under state schemes in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana helped increase green cover.
    • Support to Vulnerable States: Funds were allocated based on ecological vulnerability and restoration potential. Eg: ₹624.71 crore released to 18 states between 2019–24, with ₹575.55 crore utilised.
    • Carbon Sequestration Contribution: Contributed to creating an additional carbon sink of 2.29 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent between 2005–2021. Eg: Forest restoration in Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh aided national climate goals.
    • Integration with Climate Goals: GIM aligned with India’s international commitment to restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030. Eg: Activities under GIM complement India’s UNFCCC goals on land restoration and carbon capture.
    • Livelihood Enhancement through Forest-Based Interventions: Helped improve livelihoods of forest-dependent communities via sustainable forestry practices. Eg: Community plantation models in Odisha created jobs and promoted conservation.

    What are the key elements of the revised Green India Mission roadmap?

    • Landscape-level restoration: Focus on saturation-based, area-specific restoration in vulnerable landscapes like the Aravallis, Western Ghats, Himalayas, and mangroves.
    • Integration with flagship projects: Syncing with initiatives like the Aravalli Green Wall project (cost: Rs 16,053 crore, coverage: 6.45 mha across 29 districts and 4 states).
    • Aravalli protection: Targeting 8 lakh hectares for forest, water system and grassland rejuvenation to curb sandstorm intrusions and pollution in NCR and Punjab.
    • Western Ghats focus: Addressing illegal mining and deforestation through afforestation and abandoned mine rehabilitation.

    Why was the Green India Mission’s roadmap revised?

    • To Address On-Ground Climate Impacts: The revision was made to respond to changing climate conditions and the increasing urgency of land degradation and desertification. Eg: Inclusion of the Aravalli Green Wall Project to counter desert expansion from the Thar region.
    • To Incorporate Feedback from States and Scientific Bodies: The revised plan reflects inputs from implementing states and scientific institutions, ensuring region-specific solutions. Eg: Feedback led to the addition of eco-restoration of abandoned mining areas in the Western Ghats.
    • To Focus on Region-Specific Restoration Practices: The update prioritises landscape-specific and ecologically appropriate restoration in vulnerable ecosystems. Eg: Special emphasis on Himalayas, mangroves, and degraded zones for carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation.

    What key regions will it now focus on?

    Who is implementing the Green Wall project?

    • Central Government Leadership: The Centre (Government of India) is spearheading the initiative, allocating funding and coordinating implementation across states. Eg: The project’s ₹16,053 crore budget and planning is directed by central agencies in collaboration with local authorities.
    • Collaboration with States and Scientific Institutions: Implementation involves three states (Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat), one UT (Delhi)  and guidance from the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), using ecological data to target 12 degradation gaps in the Aravalli range. Eg: WII studies identified dust-prone regions; restoration covers 8 lakh hectares across 29 districts in these states.

    How will GIM address land degradation and carbon sequestration?

    • Restoration of Degraded and Open Forests: GIM focuses on restoring impaired open forests, which is a cost-effective and high-impact method for carbon dioxide (CO₂) sequestration. Eg: As per the Forest Survey of India (FSI), restoring 15 million hectares can sequester 1.89 billion tonnes of CO₂.
    • Region-Specific Ecological Interventions: The revised roadmap includes landscape-specific afforestation and eco-restoration in vulnerable areas like the Aravallis, Western Ghats, Himalayas, and mangroves. Eg: Under the Aravalli Green Wall Project, 8 lakh hectares will be restored to combat desertification and reduce dust pollution.
    • Expansion of Natural Carbon Sinks: GIM aligns with India’s climate commitment to create an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of CO₂ by 2030. Eg: By integrating schemes and intensifying plantation efforts, GIM aims to expand forest and tree cover up to 24.7 million hectares, capturing 3.39 billion tonnes of CO₂.

    Way forward: 

    • Integrated Landscape-Based Planning: Adopt a holistic, ecosystem-specific approach by aligning GIM with other environmental programs (e.g., CAMPA, MGNREGS) for coordinated restoration and afforestation efforts.
    • Enhanced Monitoring and Community Participation: Use technology (GIS, remote sensing) for real-time progress tracking, while empowering local communities and forest-dependent groups for sustainable upkeep and livelihood generation.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2020] Examine the status of forest resources of India and its resultant impact on climate change.

    Linkage: This question directly relates to the core objectives and context of the Green India Mission (GIM). The GIM, launched in 2014, is a crucial component of India’s efforts to combat climate change by increasing forest and tree cover and restoring degraded ecosystems. The revised roadmap for GIM emphasizes not only increasing and restoring forest and green cover but also tackling land degradation and desertification, which are significant environmental issues in India.

  • First Assembly of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

    Why in the News?

    The first Assembly of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) was held on June 16, 2025, in New Delhi, with the Union Environment Minister presiding over the session.

    About the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

    • Overview: It is a multi-country, multi-agency alliance of 95 countries, both range and non-range, dedicated to the conservation of big cats and their habitats.
    • Launch: Proposed by PM Modi in 2019, the alliance was officially launched in April 2023 to mark Project Tiger’s 50th anniversary.
    • Conservation Focus: IBCA seeks to protect and restore populations of 7 big cats: tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar, and puma.
    • Core Functions: The alliance works through advocacy, knowledge exchange, promotion of eco-tourism, and resource mobilisation.
    • Conflict Resolution: It aims to reduce human-wildlife conflict and restore degraded habitats critical to big cat survival.
    • Global Participation: IBCA brings together 95 range countries from:
      • Asia: India, China, Nepal, Pakistan, Iran
      • Africa: Kenya, Congo, Ghana
      • Americas: Brazil, Ecuador, United States
      • Europe/Central Asia: Russia, Kazakhstan
    • Members: Bhutan, Eswatini, Cambodia, Guinea, India, Liberia, Nicaragua, Somalia and Suriname have deposited an instrument of ratification.
    • Institutional Structure: It is governed by a General Assembly, an elected Council, and a secretariat led by a Secretary-General.
    • Permanent Base: The ratification of the headquarters agreement has enabled IBCA to set up its permanent headquarters in India.

    India’s Role:

    • Species Richness: India is home to 5 of the 7 big cats—the tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, and cheetah—and holds 70% of the world’s tiger population.
    • Funding Commitment: The Indian government has committed ₹150 crore (2023–2028) and is attracting additional global contributions to support the alliance’s goals.
    • Conservation Leadership: India plays a leading global role in big cat protection, setting benchmarks in wildlife conservation and ecological stewardship.
    [UPSC 2024] Consider the following statements:

    1. Lions do not have a particular breeding season.

    2. Unlike most other big cats, cheetahs do not roar.

    3. Unlike male lions, male leopards do not proclaim their territory by scent marking.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

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

     

  • Ocean Darkening: A New Ecological Crisis

    Why in the News?

    A new study from the University of Plymouth has revealed that over 21% of the global ocean has significantly darkened in the last two decades.

    What is Ocean Darkening?

    • Ocean darkening refers to the reduction in sunlight penetration into the ocean’s upper layers, known as the photic zone (up to 200 meters deep), where sunlight drives photosynthesis and supports marine biodiversity.
    • This process is measured using the diffuse attenuation coefficient (Kd 490), which tracks how quickly light diminishes as it passes through seawater.
    • The photic zone is essential for phytoplankton productivity, oxygen generation, marine food chains, and the regulation of global climate.

    Recent Report Citing Ocean Darkening:

    • A new study by researchers from the University of Plymouth, published in 2024, titled “Darkening of the Global Ocean”, revealed that 21% of the global ocean has significantly darkened from 2003 to 2022.
    • Key findings:
      • 9% of the ocean saw a drop of more than 50 meters in light penetration—equal to the area of Africa.
      • 2.6% experienced a loss exceeding 100 meters in photic depth.
    • Affected Region: The study found the Arctic, Antarctic, Gulf Stream, and North Sea among the worst affected regions.
    • Causes:
      • Algal blooms from nutrient runoff in coastal areas.
      • Warming seas, altered plankton dynamics, and changing ocean currents in open ocean zones.

    Implications of Ocean Darkening:

    • Ecosystem Disruption: Light-dependent species, such as Calanus copepods, are being pushed into shallower zones, increasing predation and competition.
    • Loss of Habitat: The shrinkage of the photic zone could be one of the largest marine habitat losses ever, affecting fish stocks and biodiversity.
    • Climate Feedback Loop: Reduced photosynthesis in oceans could weaken the ocean’s role in carbon sequestration and oxygen production, worsening climate change.
    • Threat to Global Fisheries: The contraction of productive zones affects fish populations, jeopardising fisheries and food security.
    • Scientific Concern: Researchers warn that this hidden crisis could fundamentally alter marine ecosystems if not urgently addressed.
    [UPSC 2025] With reference to the planet Earth, consider the following statements:

    I. Rain forests produce more oxygen than that produced by oceans. II. Marine phytoplankton and photosynthetic bacteria produce about 50% of the world’s oxygen. III. Well-oxygenated surface water contains several folds higher oxygen than that in atmospheric air.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    Options: (a) I and II (b) II only * (c) I and III (d) None of the above statements is correct

     

  • [16th June 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: What are flue gas desulphurisation units?

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2022] Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997.

    Linkage:  SO2 as “one of the major greenhouse gases that cause global warming”. Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) units are designed specifically to remove SO2 emissions from the combustion of fossil fuels. Therefore, FGD units serve as a direct “control measure to bring down the level of greenhouse gases” as addressed by the question.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  India’s top science advisory group has suggested ending the 2015 rule that made it compulsory for all coal-based power plants to install Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) units. This has raised serious concerns because FGDs are key to reducing sulphur dioxide (SO₂) pollution, which causes 15% of India’s PM2.5 levels and leads to breathing problems, environmental damage, and climate change. Although installing FGDs is expensive (₹1.2 crore per MW), experts warn that dropping the plan could harm public health and clean air efforts. Worryingly, only 39 of 537 plants have installed FGDs, and deadlines keep getting pushed back.

     Today’s editorial focuses on the analysis of the installation of the Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) units in a thermal power plant. This content is very relevant to GS Paper III (Environment, Science and Technology) Mains.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    A group of experts, led by Principal Scientific Advisor Ajay Sood, has recently suggested that India should cancel the 10-year-old rule that requires all coal-based thermal power plants to install Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) units.

    Why India should cancel the 10-Year-Old Rule (2015 FGD Mandate)?

    • High Installation Cost Burden: Installing FGD units costs around ₹1.2 crore per MW, which can significantly raise power generation costs and electricity tariffs. Eg: For 97,000 MW of new capacity, the cost would be about ₹97,000 crore, making power less affordable.
    • Delayed and Poor Implementation: Despite the 2015 rule, compliance has been dismal—only 39 out of 537 plants had FGDs installed by 2025. Eg: Repeated deadline extensions (up to 2029) show lack of feasibility and institutional capacity.
    • Limited Local Air Quality Impact in Some Areas: In certain regions, the contribution of SO₂ emissions from TPPs to PM2.5 levels is relatively small. Eg: In Delhi, most air pollution comes from other sources like vehicles and construction, so FGDs at distant plants may offer minimal benefit.

    What is a Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) unit?

    • FGD units are devices used in coal-fired thermal power plants (TPPs) to remove sulphur dioxide (SO₂) from flue gas. Flue gas is a byproduct of burning fossil fuels and contains pollutants like SO₂, CO₂, NOx, and particulate matter.
    • Three common FGD technologies:
      • Dry sorbent injection (adds powdered limestone to flue gas).
      • Wet limestone treatment (reacts SO₂ with limestone slurry to form gypsum).
      • Sea water scrubbing (used near coastal areas).

    How does it reduce SO₂ emissions from thermal power plants?

    • Chemical Neutralisation Reaction: FGD units use alkaline substances like limestone or lime to react with acidic SO₂ in flue gas, converting it into stable, non-toxic compounds. Eg: In wet limestone FGD, SO₂ reacts with limestone slurry to form gypsum (CaSO₄·2H₂O), a harmless industrial byproduct.
    • Efficient Scrubbing Techniques: Technologies like wet scrubbers or dry sorbent injection physically remove SO₂ from exhaust gases before release into the atmosphere. Eg: Dry sorbent injection sprays powdered lime into the flue gas stream, which binds with SO₂ and is later captured by filters.
    • Controlled Emission Discharge: FGD ensures that the treated flue gas released into the environment has significantly lower SO₂ levels, complying with environmental norms. Eg: Power plants near coasts use sea water FGD, where sea water absorbs SO₂ and is then treated before being discharged safely.

    Why are SO₂ emissions harmful?

    • Respiratory and Health Issues: Sulphur dioxide (SO₂) irritates the respiratory system, causing problems like asthma, bronchitis, and lung damage, especially in children and the elderly. Eg: Studies in urban industrial areas show a direct link between SO₂ exposure and increased hospital admissions for respiratory illnesses.
    • Formation of Secondary Particulate Matter (PM2.5): SO₂ reacts in the atmosphere to form fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which can penetrate deep into lungs and enter the bloodstream, posing serious health risks. Eg: According to studies, 80% of PM2.5 from coal combustion is due to secondary particles formed from SO₂.
    • Contribution to Acid Rain: SO₂ combines with water vapor in the atmosphere to form sulphuric acid, leading to acid rain that damages soil, crops, forests, and aquatic ecosystems. Eg: Regions near coal-fired plants have reported acidic lakes and damaged crops due to acid rain deposition.
    • Environmental Degradation: High SO₂ levels can corrode buildings, especially monuments made of limestone or marble, and degrade overall air and water quality. Eg: The Taj Mahal has shown signs of yellowing, partly attributed to SO₂-related pollution.
    • Climate and Visibility Impact: Though SO₂ itself is not a greenhouse gas, it leads to formation of aerosols, affecting cloud formation, reducing visibility, and causing climate imbalance. Eg: In industrial belts, hazy skies and temperature variations are linked to SO₂-derived aerosols.

    What is the status of FGD installation in India (2025)?

    • Low Overall Commissioning: Only about 39 out of 537 thermal power plant units (≈ 19,430 MW capacity) have commissioned FGD systems, representing ~11% of the total required capacity. Eg: Just 13 out of 35 units within 300 km of Delhi have installed FGDs, showing slow progress in high-pollution zones.
    • Stalled Projects and Delays: Contracts have been awarded for about 238 units (~105,200 MW), and 139 units (~42,847 MW) are still in the tendering stage, but many projects remain stalled. Eg: Some plants, especially near Delhi, may take up to 36 months to complete FGD installation due to regulatory and logistical hurdles.
    • Repeated Deadline Extensions: Compliance deadlines have been extended multiple times: from 2017 → 2024 → 2026–2029, depending on the location and plant category. Eg: The Ministry of Environment has pushed back deadlines for thermal plants in Delhi NCR without strict justification, raising concerns about enforcement.

    Way forward: 

    • Prioritised FGD Installation: Expedite FGD implementation in high-emission and densely populated zones to balance cost and health impact.
    • Policy and Financial Support: Provide targeted subsidies or incentives to TPPs and integrate FGD costs into long-term tariff planning for smoother adoption.

  • Fire on waters India’s maritime firefighting capabilities are standing up to the test

    Why in the News?

    The fire on MV Wan Hai 503 near Kannur exposed India’s weak maritime safety. With over 140 hazardous containers onboard, it posed a major risk during the monsoon, threatening the environment and lives.

    What are the major types of peacetime maritime accidents faced by the Indian coast?

    • Sinking of merchant ships – leads to cargo loss, traffic disruption, and environmental damage.
    • Fire onboard vessels – threatens coastal life, property, and marine ecology.
    • Oil spills – have long-lasting environmental impacts and are difficult to contain.

    Why was the MV Wan Hai 503 incident a significant maritime safety challenge?

    • Presence of Hazardous Cargo: Over 140 of the 1,754 containers onboard contained hazardous materials, posing a high risk of toxic release and chemical explosions. Eg: Multiple colors of smoke (brown, white, grey, black) indicated different substances burning simultaneously.
    • Proximity to Coastline During Fire: The ship began drifting dangerously toward the Indian coast near Azhikkal, Kerala, during monsoon rough seas, increasing the threat of coastal disaster. Eg: The tow rope initially snapped under pressure, risking further drift and collision with the shore.
    • Complexity of Fire-Fighting and Towing: Fire-fighting was complicated by weather conditions and ship instability, requiring precise coordination. Eg: An Indian Navy helicopter had to airdrop a salvage team to pass a steel wire rope for safe towing to deeper waters.
    • Multi-Agency Emergency Response Needed: The incident required rapid coordination between the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and the ship owner’s team using tugs. Eg: The ship was finally stabilized 45 nautical miles offshore, where the water depth was nearly one kilometre, minimizing risk to coastal areas.

    How did Indian agencies respond to the fire on MV Wan Hai 503?

    • Rapid firefighting efforts amid adverse conditions: The Indian Coast Guard initiated firefighting operations despite rough seas caused by the monsoon. Eg: Firefighting continued while the ship drifted dangerously toward the Kerala coast, with thick smoke from burning hazardous cargo.
    • Coordinated aerial and naval action: The Indian Navy deployed a helicopter to airdrop a salvage team onto the ship and deliver a steel wire rope to secure it. Eg: The steel rope enabled safe towing after the initial tow rope snapped due to tension and sea conditions.
    • Strategic towing and risk mitigation: Indian agencies, in coordination with the ship owner’s agents and tugboats, towed the vessel 45 nautical milesaway from the coast to prevent environmental and coastal damage. Eg: The vessel was moved to deeper waters (1 km depth) to minimize the impact of any further explosion or sinking.

    Why are gas-carrying and oil-laden ships considered severe fire and explosion hazards?

    • High flammability of cargo: Gas and crude oil are highly combustible, making these ships extremely prone to fires and explosions if containment fails. Eg: Even a minor spark can ignite vapours from gas or oil, causing catastrophic fires onboard.
    • Large volume of hazardous material: These vessels carry enormous quantities of flammable substances, which amplify the scale of damage during accidents. Eg: The New Diamond VLCC was carrying 2,70,000 tonnes of crude oil when it caught fire off Colombo in 2020.
    • Critical maritime chokepoint risks: Accidents involving such vessels at strategic locations like the Suez Canal or Strait of Malacca can disrupt global trade and cause widespread damage. Eg: A gas carrier explosion at a maritime chokepoint could halt international shipping routes, impacting global supply chains.

    What are the key areas India needs to strengthen in maritime fire-fighting and salvage operations? (Way forward)

    • Rapid Salvage Capability: India must improve its ability for quick salvage of sinking or damaged vessels to prevent cargo loss, environmental damage, and navigation disruption. Eg: During the MV Wan Hai 503 incident, timely towing by the Indian Navy helped avert a coastal disaster, but highlighted the need for faster salvage deployment.
    • Multi-agency Coordination: Effective response to maritime emergencies requires seamless coordination among the Coast Guard, Navy, port authorities, and private salvage firms. Eg: The successful control of the New Diamond VLCC fire involved joint efforts from Indian and Sri Lankan naval forces.
    • Advanced Fire-fighting Infrastructure: India needs to upgrade fire-fighting equipment on patrol vessels and at key ports, especially for handling hazardous cargo and oil/gas fires. Eg: The Coast Guard’s patrol vessels are now fitted with basic fire-fighting systems, but large-scale fires require specialised ships and foam-based suppression systems.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2023] What are the ways in which oil pollution affects the marine ecosystem? In what way is oil pollution particularly harmful for a country like India?

    Linkage: Maritime Accident Response” explicitly talks about the “oil spills” as one of the three major peacetime maritime accidents that the Indian coast needs protection against. It also states that oil is a “more severe fire hazard” than hazardous cargo, especially in the context of gas-carrying merchant ships. This question directly addresses the environmental and national impact of oil pollution, which is a significant aspect of maritime accidents and firefighting efforts.

  • Spartaeus karigiri: New jumping Spider Species discovered in Karnataka

    Why in the News?

    Researchers from Chennai have discovered a new species of jumping spider, ‘Spartaeus karigiri’, belonging to the Spartaeinae subfamily.

    About the Spartaeus karigiri :

    • Spartaeus karigiri is a newly discovered species of jumping spider, part of the Spartaeinae subfamily within the Salticidae (jumping spider) family.
    • It was first identified in the Karigiri (Elephant Hill) region of Devarayanadurga, Karnataka, and is named after this location.
    • The species marks the first recorded instance of the Spartaeus genus being found in India, extending its previously known range from Southeast Asia.
    • Field specimens were also collected from Villupuram district in Tamil Nadu, suggesting a broader habitat.

    Key Features:

    • Genus Identification: Belongs to the Spartaeus genus, known for its intelligent predation and visual hunting tactics.
    • Habitat: Found in rocky outcrops and forested terrain; prefers crevices and protected microhabitats.
    • Hunting Behaviour: Likely exhibits web-invasion hunting methods and prey mimicry, similar to other Spartaeinae members.
    [UPSC 2025] Regarding the Peacock tarantula (Gooty tarantula), consider the following statements:

    I. It is an omnivorous crustacean.

    II. Its natural habitat in India is only limited to some forest areas.

    III. In its natural habitat, it is an arboreal species.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) I only (b) I and III (c) II only (d) II and III *

     

  • Centre sets up Forest Rights Act (FRA) Cells

    Why in the News?

    Under the Dharti Aba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyaan (DAJGUA), the Ministry of Tribal Affairs has sanctioned the creation of District and State-level Forest Rights Act (FRA) Cells across 18 States and Union Territories.

    About Dharti Aba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyaan (DAJGUA)

    • Launch: It was launched in October 2024 by Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
    • Mission Goal: The initiative aims to promote holistic development of tribal communities by addressing gaps in infrastructure, livelihoods, education, and health.
    • Geographical Reach: The program covers over 63,843 tribal-dominated villages across 30 States/UTs, 2,911 blocks, and 549 districts, benefitting over 5 crore tribal people.
    • Funding: The total budget is ₹79,156 crore, with a central share of ₹56,333 crore and a state share of ₹22,823 crore.
    • Inspiration: DAJGUA is modelled after the PM-JANMAN Scheme, which focuses specifically on the welfare of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).

    What are FRA Cells under DAJGUA?

    • Overview: FRA Cells are administrative support units created under the Dharti Aba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyaan (DAJGUA) to assist in implementing the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006.
    • Funding Support: These cells are funded directly by the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs, marking the first instance of central government financing a structured FRA support mechanism.
    • Objective: The core aim of FRA Cells is to help tribal claimants and Gram Sabhas prepare and submit forest rights claims, especially in tribal-dominated districts.
    • Goal: FRA Cells aim to reduce delays and rejections in forest rights applications by improving documentation quality and data management.

    Key Features of FRA Cells:

    • Coverage Scale: As of 2025, a total of 324 district-level and 17 state-level FRA Cells have been approved across 18 States and Union Territories.
    • Funding Allocation: Each district-level cell is provided ₹8.67 lakh, and each state-level cell receives ₹25.85 lakh, funded as Grants-in-Aid General by the Centre.
    • Operational Functions: FRA Cells assist in document collection, Gram Sabha resolution drafting, conversion of forest villages into revenue villages, land demarcation, digitization, and record uploads to official portals.
    • Limitations: FRA Cells do NOT interfere with the decision-making powers of statutory authorities like Gram Sabhas, Sub-Divisional Level Committees (SDLCs), or District Level Committees (DLCs).
    • Leading States: The highest number of FRA Cells have been approved in Madhya Pradesh (55), Chhattisgarh (30), Telangana (29), Maharashtra (26), Assam (25), and Jharkhand (24).

    Back2Basics: Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006

    • Overview: The law is officially called The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006.
    • Objectives: FRA seeks to recognize and vest forest land rights to Scheduled Tribes (STs) and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (OTFDs) who have traditionally depended on forests but lacked formal land ownership.
    • Major Provisions: It provides for:
      • Ownership of Minor Forest Produce (MFP)
      • Community rights such as grazing and water use
      • Habitat rights for PVTGs
      • Community Forest Resource (CFR) rights to manage and protect forests
    • Institutional Framework: The Act is implemented through a multi-tier system consisting of Gram Sabhas, Forest Rights Committees (FRCs), SDLCs, DLCs, and State Monitoring Committees.
    • Significance: FRA provides legal protection from evictions, supports livelihoods, and enhances local forest governance through community participation and legal recognition.

     

    [UPSC 2021] At the national level, which ministry is the nodal agency to ensure effective implementation of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006?

    Options: (a) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (b) Ministry of Panchayati Raj (c) Ministry of Rural Development (d) Ministry of Tribal Affairs*

     

  • AviList 2025: World’s First Unified Global Bird Checklist 

    Why in the News?

    The Working Group on Avian Checklists has released AviList, the world’s first unified global bird checklist to standardize bird classification and support global research and conservation.

    What is AviList?

    • Overview: AviList is the first unified global checklist of bird species, officially launched on June 12, 2025.
    • Who developed it: It was developed by the Working Group on Avian Checklists, with representatives from BirdLife International, the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the International Ornithologists’ Union, the American Ornithologists’ Society, and Avibase.
    • Purpose: The checklist aims to eliminate confusion caused by conflicting taxonomies and to improve global coordination in bird research and conservation.
    • Standalone feature: AviList replaces separate resources like the IOC World Bird List and the Clements Checklist with a single, consensus-based taxonomy.
    • Accessibility: It is freely available at www.avilist.org and will be updated annually to reflect the latest scientific consensus.
    • Target Users: AviList supports ornithologists, birdwatchers, conservationists, researchers, and policymakers globally.

    Key Features of AviList:

    • Standardized Taxonomy: Combines inputs from global and regional checklists to ensure taxonomic consistency.
    • Comprehensive Coverage: Lists 11,131 species, 19,879 subspecies, 2,376 genera, 252 families, and 46 orders.
    • Consensus-Driven Process: Taxonomic decisions are made through structured milestone assessments and expert committee voting.
    • Transparency in Changes: Provides clear justifications for taxonomic updates, especially those involving disputed species.
    • Living Document: Designed to evolve continuously with new scientific discoveries and updates.
    • Conservation Impact: Helps improve biodiversity assessments and conservation planning by clarifying species boundaries.
    [UPSC 2015] With reference to an organization known as ‘BirdLife International’, consider the following statements:

    1. It is a Global Partnership of Conservation Organizations.

    2.The concept of ‘biodiversity hotspots’ originated from this organization.

    3. It identifies the sites known/referred to as ‘Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas’.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

     

  • [pib] Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3)

    Why in the News?

    At the Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, India made a powerful case for urgent international cooperation to protect the world’s oceans.

    About United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC)

    • What is it: The UNOC is a major international forum dedicated to supporting Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14): Life Below Water.
    • Primary Focus: It promotes the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources.
    • Multi-Stakeholder Participation: UNOC brings together governments, NGOs, academia, intergovernmental organizations, private companies, and Indigenous communities to address ocean-related challenges.
    • Key Themes: The conference tackles issues like marine pollution, overfishing, climate change, and habitat degradation, and encourages policy coordination and financial pledges.
    • Timeline of Conferences:
      • 2017: First conference in New York, co-hosted by Fiji and Sweden
      • 2022: Second in Lisbon, co-hosted by Portugal and Kenya
      • 2025: Third in Nice, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica
      • 2028: Fourth conference to be hosted by Chile and South Korea (yet to be announced officially)
    • Legal Framework: UNOC operates within the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
    • Financial and Policy Impact: Since 2014, UNOC has mobilized over $130 billion and generated 2,160+ voluntary commitments toward protecting ocean health.

    Major Indian Initiatives Showcased at UNOC3 (2025):

    • Deep Ocean Mission: India showcased progress on the ‘Samudrayaan’ mission, a deep-sea manned submersible targeting 6,000-meter depth by 2026.
    • Plastic Pollution Action: India emphasized the national ban on single-use plastics and the ‘Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar’ campaign, which has cleaned 1,000+ km of coastline and removed over 50,000 tonnes of plastic waste. A draft Marine Litter Policy has been prepared and India strongly supports a Global Plastics Treaty.
    • Blue Economy Development: Under the Sagarmala Programme, $80 billion has been invested in port-led infrastructure. An additional $2.5 billion has been deployed under PM Matsya Sampada Yojana, leading to a 10% rise in fish production and creation of 1,000+ fish farmer producer organizations.
    • Marine Biodiversity Efforts: India expanded Marine Protected Areas to 6.6% of its Exclusive Economic Zone and restored over 10,000 hectares of mangroves.
    • Marine Data Transparency: India launched the SAHAV Portal, a digital ocean governance platform for science-based and transparent decision-making.
    • International Leadership: India co-led the ‘Blue Talks’ with France and Costa Rica, participated in high-level panels, and advocated for equitable ocean data access and capacity-building in developing nations.

    Back2Basics: United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)

    • UNCLOS is a global treaty that regulates all maritime activities and ocean space.
    • It defines maritime zones such as: Internal Waters (within the baseline), Territorial Sea (up to 12 nautical miles), Contiguous Zone (up to 24 nautical miles), Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) (up to 200 nautical miles), High Seas, which lie beyond national jurisdiction.
    • It came into force in 1994 and has 169 parties (as of 2024), including India, but not the U.S.
    • It established the International Seabed Authority and declared the deep seabed as the “common heritage of mankind.”
    • India ratified UNCLOS in 1995 and uses it to claim maritime rights, including its extended continental shelf.
    • It supports freedom of navigation and advocates for a rules-based maritime order under UNCLOS.

     

    [UPSC 2022] With reference to the United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea, consider the following statements:

    1. A coastal state has the right to establish the breadth of its territorial sea up to a limit not exceeding 12 nautical miles, measured from baseline determined in accordance with the convention.

    2. Ships of all states, whether coastal or land-locked, enjoy the right of innocent passage through the territorial sea.

    3. The Exclusive Economic Zone shall not extend beyond 200 nautical miles from the baseline from which the breadth of the territorial sea is measured.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3*

     

  • HKU5 Bat Viruses pose potential Pandemic Risk

    Why in the News?

    A new study warns that HKU5 bat coronaviruses, closely related to Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), are just one mutation away from infecting humans.

    Back2Basics: Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)

    • Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) is a viral respiratory disease caused by Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS‐CoV) that was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012.
    • It is a species of coronavirus which infects humans, bats, and camels.

    About HKU5 Virus and Its Characteristics:

    • Classification: HKU5 is a bat coronavirus that belongs to the merbecovirus subgenus, which also includes the MERS-CoV (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus).
    • Origin: It was first identified in the Japanese pipistrelle bat in Hong Kong. “HKU” in the name refers to the University of Hong Kong, where the virus was identified.
    • Virology: HKU5 is an enveloped, positive-sense, single-stranded RNA virus, structurally similar to other high-risk coronaviruses.
    • Spread: The virus has been detected in bats across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, indicating widespread natural reservoirs.
    • Cell Entry Mechanism: Like SARS-CoV-2, HKU5 uses the ACE2 receptor to infect cells, but current strains bind effectively only to bat ACE2, not human ACE2.
    • Recent Developments: In 2025, a new variant called HKU5-CoV-2 was isolated in China, and lab studies show it can infect human airway and gut cells, though less efficiently than SARS-CoV-2.
    • Genetic Similarity: HKU5 is genetically close to both MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2, though it has not yet been detected in humans.

    Threats and Risks Associated with HKU5 Virus:

    • Near-Human Infectivity: HKU5 is considered just one mutation away from gaining the ability to infect humans via the ACE2 receptor.
    • Cross-Species Transmission: Certain HKU5 strains have already jumped into minks, demonstrating its capacity to cross species barriers.
    • Pandemic Potential: If HKU5 acquires mutations allowing efficient use of human ACE2, it could pose a significant zoonotic pandemic threat.
    • Relation to Deadly Viruses: Its structural similarity to MERS-CoV, which has a 34% fatality rate, places HKU5 in a high-risk category if human infection occurs.
    [UPSC 2015] H1N1 virus is sometimes mentioned in the news concerning which one of the following diseases?

    Options: (a) AIDS (b) Bird flu (c) Dengue (d) Swine flu*