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

  • [19th April 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Steering the decarbonisation of India’s logistics sector

     

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2013] Write a note on India’s green energy corridor to alleviate the problem of conventional energy.

    Linkage: Decarbonising the logistics sector necessitates a shift away from conventional energy sources. The development of a green energy corridor, as mentioned in this PYQ, is essential for supplying the renewable energy needed to power various aspects of logistics, such as electric trucks and warehouses

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  Viksit Bharat is a commitment to a stronger, self-reliant India by 2047, focusing on inclusive development. Achieving this requires a large, efficient, and future-ready logistics sector. While infrastructure and accessibility are key, prioritizing the environment is crucial. India’s carbon-heavy logistics must transform to meet net-zero emissions by 2070, reducing transportation, warehousing, and supply chain emissions for a sustainable future.

    Today’s editorial talks about India’s logistics sector, which creates a significant amount of carbon pollution. This topic is relevant for GS Paper 3 in the mains exam.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    India’s logistics sector, which produces a lot of carbon pollution, needs to change and become more eco-friendly.

    What role does logistics play in achieving Viksit Bharat 2047?

    • Enabler of Inclusive Development: Efficient logistics ensures that goods and services reach every corner of the country, promoting equitable growth across regions. Eg: Improved last-mile connectivity in remote areas boosts rural entrepreneurship and market access for farmers.
    • Driver of Economic Competitiveness: A streamlined logistics sector reduces costs and delays, enhancing India’s global trade competitiveness. Eg: The PM Gati Shakti initiative integrates infrastructure planning to speed up cargo movement and reduce logistics costs.
    • Catalyst for Sustainability and Resilience: Greener logistics support India’s net-zero targets and build climate-resilient infrastructure. Eg: Electrification of highways and promotion of rail freight reduce emissions from the transport sector.

    Why is urgent decarbonisation needed in road freight and warehousing?

    • High Share in Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Road freight alone contributes over 88% of transport emissions, with trucks accounting for 38% of CO₂ emissions (IEA 2023). Eg: A single heavy-duty diesel truck emits over 1,000 grams of CO₂ per km — multiplied across millions of trucks, this leads to massive environmental impact.
    • Dependence on Fossil Fuels: Road transport is highly dependent on oil combustion, making it one of the most carbon-intensive sectors. Warehouses often rely on non-renewable power sources like diesel generators for energy and refrigeration. Eg: India’s freight trucks mostly use diesel — a key factor in air pollution and rising import bills for crude oil.
    • Growing Demand Increases Future Emissions: With freight and warehousing demand expected to grow rapidly by 2030, emissions will rise unless green alternatives are adopted. Eg: Government plans to triple cargo movement on inland waterways and expand warehousing, which without clean tech would add significantly to GHG levels.
    • Missed Economic Opportunities without Green Shift: Decarbonisation can lead to cost savings, energy efficiency, and long-term competitiveness. Delay increases operational costs and reduces global trade alignment. Eg: Green warehouses with solar rooftops can reduce electricity costs by 20–30% and earn carbon credits.
    • Alignment with Net Zero and Global Climate Commitments: India has committed to Net Zero by 2070. Without decarbonising logistics, achieving this goal will be impossible. Eg: Transitioning to electric trucks and LNG-powered vessels supports global targets like the Paris Agreement and IMO’s shipping emission cuts.

    How can China and the U.S. guide India’s green freight transition?

    • Rail Freight as a Cleaner Alternative: China and the U.S. have shifted significant portions of freight transport from road to rail, which is more energy-efficient and low-carbon. Eg: China has heavily invested in rail infrastructure, making rail freight nearly 50% of its total freight, significantly reducing emissions compared to road transport.
    • Adoption of Cleaner Fuels and Technologies: Both countries have embraced electric rail systems and alternative fuels for freight, which India can adopt to decarbonise its logistics sector. Eg: The U.S. has invested in electrified rail corridors, and China has introduced LNG-powered freight trains, both of which reduce dependency on diesel and curb emissions.
    • Policy Support and Infrastructure Investment: China and the U.S. have implemented policy frameworks that incentivise green freight practices, such as tax breaks, green subsidies, and investment in sustainable infrastructure. Eg: China’s Green Freight initiative includes subsidies for green vehicles, while the U.S. offers funding for clean freight technology under programs like the Clean Diesel Program.

    Which steps has India taken to electrify freight and green maritime transport?

    • Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC): Spanning 1,506 km, the WDFC connects Delhi to Mumbai, facilitating high-speed, high-capacity freight movement. This electrified corridor supports double-stack container trains, enhancing efficiency and reducing emissions.
    • Subsidies for Electric Freight Vehicles: In 2024, India approved ₹5 billion to incentivise the adoption of electric trucks, aiming to replace polluting diesel vehicles. This initiative is part of a broader ₹109 billion scheme to promote electric vehicles across various sectors.
    • Investment in Green Maritime Infrastructure: India plans to allocate ₹25,000 crore towards developing green ports and shipping infrastructure. This includes building green hydrogen hubs and manufacturing eco-friendly vessels, supporting the transition to sustainable maritime practices.
    • Collaboration with Singapore: India is exploring the creation of a Green Digital Shipping Corridor with Singapore, aiming to link international ports and marine industries. This initiative focuses on reducing emissions and enhancing digital integration in maritime trade.
    • Harit Sagar Initiative: The ‘Harit Sagar Green Port Guidelines’ aim to integrate renewable energy into port operations, promote the use of green fuels, and modernise fleets. These guidelines are part of India’s strategy to achieve net-zero emissions in the maritime sector by 2070.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Green Infrastructure and Technology Adoption: India should accelerate investments in green technologies, such as electric trucks, renewable energy-powered warehouses, and cleaner maritime fuels, alongside expanding rail freight networks to further reduce carbon emissions.
    • Strengthen Policy Frameworks and International Collaborations: Strengthening government policies to incentivize sustainable logistics practices and fostering international partnerships, such as with Singapore for green shipping corridors, can help ensure the successful transition to a low-carbon logistics sector.

     

  • India to Headquarter the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) 

    Why in the News?

    India has signed a Headquarters Agreement with the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), officially establishing its headquarters in India.

    About International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA):

    • IBCA is a multi-country, multi-agency group of 96 big cat range and non-range countries focused on conserving 7 big cats and their habitats.
    • It was proposed by PM Modi in 2019, officially launched in April 2023 for Project Tiger’s 50th anniversary.
    • It aims to protect and conserve Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma; restore habitats and reduce human-wildlife conflict.
    • Key activities include- Advocacy, knowledge sharing, eco-tourism promotion, and resource mobilization for big cat conservation.
    • Currently, India, Nicaragua, Eswatini, and Somalia are members. Though membership is open to 96 range countries with big cat habitats.
    • Governance: Includes a General Assembly, elected Council, and Secretariat with a Secretary-General.
    • India’s Role:
      • India is home to 5 (tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, and cheetah) of the 7 big cats and 70% of the world’s tiger population, playing a leading role in global wildlife protection.
      • ₹150 crore from the Indian government (2023-2028) with additional contributions from global partners.
    [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

     

  • Particulate Matter Emission Trading Scheme in Gujarat

    Why in the News?

    A new study highlights the success of Surat’s Particulate Matter Emission Trading Scheme (PM-ETS), the world’s first market-based system for trading particulate emissions.

    The scheme has reduced pollution by 20-30%, providing insights into its potential to improve air quality in industrial areas.

    About Particulate Matter Emission Trading Scheme in Gujarat:

    • This PM ETS was launched in Surat, Gujarat in 2019.
    • It is the world’s first pilot project targeting particulate pollution using a market-based emissions trading system.
    • It is India’s first emissions trading initiative for any pollutant.
    • The scheme aims to reduce emissions from industries using solid (coal, lignite) and liquid fuels (diesel) by controlling fine particulate matter (PM).
    • How It Works?
      • Cap-and-Trade: Regulators set a cap on total emissions, and industries are issued permits (1 kg of particulate matter per permit).
      • Permit Allocation: 80% of permits are given for free; 20% are sold via auctions.
      • Market Trading: Permits can be bought or sold to meet emission targets. A ceiling price (Rs 100/kg) and floor price (Rs 5/kg) are set.
      • Compliance: Non-compliant industries face fines double the ceiling price for each excess emission.

    Successes of PM-ETS:

    • Reduction in Emissions: Participating plants cut emissions by 20-30% compared to traditional methods.
    • Improved Compliance: 99% compliance in participating plants.
    • Cost-Effective: The system allowed industries to choose the most cost-effective methods for compliance.

    Limitations of PM-ETS:

    • Over-reliance on Free Permits: Smaller plants may struggle as the number of free permits decreases.
    • Supply Chain Limitations: Tightened caps could increase costs for industries not reducing emissions.
    • Market Manipulation: Concerns over unfair permit trading.
    • Geographical Constraints: Limited to Surat, restricting broader impact.
    [UPSC 2011] Regarding “carbon credits’’, which one of the following statements is not correct?

    (a) The carbon credit system was ratified in conjunction with the Kyoto protocol.

    (b) Carbon credits are awarded to countries or groups that have reduced greenhouse gases below their emission quota.

    (c) The goal of the carbon credit system is to limit the increase of carbon dioxide emission.

    (d) Carbon credits are traded at a price fixed from time to time by the United Nations environment programs. *

     

  • What is Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD)?

    Why in the News?

    The Union Environment Ministry’s 2015 policy mandating the installation of Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) equipment in all of India’s 537 coal-fired plants has been scrutinised by a recent study commissioned by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser.

    Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD)

    About Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) in Power Plants

    • FGD is used to remove sulfur dioxide (SO₂) from flue gases in coal-fired power plants.
    • The process involves passing exhaust gases through a scrubbing system using absorbents like ammonia, sodium sulfite, or limestone.
    • Methods:
      • Wet Limestone Scrubbing: Gases pass through a scrubber tower with a slurry of water and limestone.
      • Dry Sorbent Injection: Uses a dry alkaline agent to neutralize SO₂.
      • Sea Water-Based Systems: Utilizes seawater’s natural alkalinity to absorb SO₂.
    • FGD can remove up to 95% of sulfur dioxide, reducing SO₂ emissions significantly.
    • Reduces sulfur emissions, major contributors to acid rain and air pollution.
    • FGD Gypsum, a byproduct, can be used in industries like cement manufacturing.

    Recent Study on FGD in Power Plants

    • A study by NIAS critiques India’s FGD policy, recommending limited FGD installations for plants using imported or high-sulfur coal.
    • 92% of coal in Indian plants has low sulfur content (0.3%-0.5%), meaning FGD may not significantly improve local air quality.
    • Widespread FGD installation could increase power and water consumption, and result in 69 million tonnes of additional CO₂ emissions by 2030.
    • Removing SO₂ (cooling agent) while increasing CO₂ emissions may accelerate climate change.
    • Recommendations: Installing electrostatic precipitators (₹25 lakh per MW) can reduce 99% of particulate matter (PM), offering a more cost-effective and impactful solution.
    [UPSC 2024] According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which one of the following is the largest source of sulphur dioxide emissions?

    (a) Locomotives using fossil fuels

    (b) Ships using fossil fuels

    (c) Extraction of metals from ores

    (d) Power plants using fossil fuels*

     

  • New frog species ‘Leptobrachium aryatium’ discovered in Assam

    Why in the News?

    A 21-year-long study has resulted in the discovery of a new frog species, Leptobrachium aryatium, named after Arya Vidyapeeth College in Assam.

    About the frog ‘Leptobrachium aryatium’

    • Leptobrachium aryatium, a newly discovered species of frog, was found in the Garbhanga Reserve Forest, located on the southwestern edge of Guwahati, Assam, near the Meghalaya border.
    • The species was identified through a re-analysis of past research and new studies on the Leptobrachium genus.
    • Key Features:
      • Distinctive Eyes: The frog has fiery orange-and-black eyes, setting it apart from other species in the genus.
      • Reticulated Throat Pattern: A unique reticulated pattern on its throat adds to its distinct appearance.
      • Smooth, Rhythmic Call: Emits a smooth, rhythmic call at dusk, a feature unique to this species in the genus.
      • Molecular and Morphological Distinctiveness: DNA analysis and physical studies confirmed it as a new species, distinguished by its unique call and appearance.
    [UPSC 2016] Recently, our scientists have discovered a new and distinct species of banana plant which attains a height of about 11 metres and has orange-coloured fruit pulp. In which part of India has it been discovered?

    (a) Andaman Islands* (b) Anaimalai Forests (c) Maikala Hills (d) Tropical rain forests of northeast

     

  • India’s first-ever Seed Germination Database

    Why in the News?

    On April 16, 2025, the Ecological Restoration Alliance-India (ERA-I) has released a first-of-its-kind seed germination database aimed at enhancing the success of growing native plants for ecological restoration.

    About the Seed Germination Database:

    • It was launched by the Ecological Restoration Alliance-India (ERA-I).  ERA was formed in July 2021, as an informal collective between practitioners, ecologists and individuals.
    • ERA-I collaborated with organizations like Auroville Botanical Gardens, NCF, and Wildlife Trust of India.
    • It features over 1,000 germination techniques for 465 native plant species found across India.
    • It aims to help restoration practitioners, nursery managers, and native plant enthusiasts improve success rates in growing plants for ecological restoration.
    • It is a free-access database and offers valuable information on germinating native plants crucial for restoration projects.
    • Native Plants Included:
      • The database features a diverse array of native plant species. These species are key to restoring balance in degraded ecosystems.
      • They are – Aegle marmelos (Wood apple), Bauhinia racemosa (Beedi leaf tree), Ficus benghalensis (Banyan), Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), Ziziphus mauritiana (Indian jujube), Knema attenuata (Wild nutmeg), Lawsonia inermis (Henna), Madhuca longifolia (Mahua), Vachellia nilotica (Babool).

    Significance:

    • Native plants are essential for creating climate-resilient ecosystems.
    • Such database plays a vital role in ecological restoration.
    • It provides 1,000+ techniques for growing native plants, enhancing the success of restoration projects.
    • The database supports India’s Bonn Challenge commitment to restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030.
    [UPSC 2016] In the context of food and nutritional security of India, enhancing the ‘Seed Replacement Rates’ of various crops helps in achieving the food production targets of the future. But what is/are the constraint/constraints in its wider/greater implementation?

    1. There is no National Seeds Policy in place.

    2. There is no participation of private sector seed companies in the supply of quality seeds of vegetables and planting materials of horticultural crops.

    3. There is a demand-supply gap regarding quality seeds in case of low value and high volume crops. Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only * (c) 2 and 3 only (d) None of the above

     

  • How govern-mentality exacerbates the problem of farmers’ stubble burning

    Why in the News?

    A new study by researchers Sujit Raghunathrao Jagadale and Javed M. Shaikh from IIM Amritsar looks at the issue of stubble burning by examining how government policies and market systems are failing to manage the problem effectively.

    Why do farmers continue stubble burning despite its harm to air quality?

    • Cost-Effective Method: Stubble burning is the cheapest way for farmers to clear their fields after harvesting. Eg: Farmers burn stubble to quickly prepare their land for the next crop, especially for wheat, without incurring high labor or machinery costs.
    • Lack of Affordable Alternatives: There are limited affordable and efficient alternatives to stubble burning. Eg: Farmers often do not have access to technology or subsidies for machines that can manage stubble, such as Happy Seeder or bio-decomposers.
    • Government’s Focus on High-Yield Crops: The Minimum Support Price (MSP) policy incentivizes the cultivation of wheat and rice, leading to monocropping. Eg: Farmers are encouraged to grow rice continuously, which results in an abundance of stubble that needs to be disposed of quickly.
    • Debt and Economic Pressure: Many farmers face financial pressures, including debt and low returns on their crops, which makes burning stubble a way to save time and money. Eg: Farmers often sell their crops to middlemen at low prices, leaving them with insufficient income to invest in sustainable farming practices.
    • Lack of Strong Enforcement or Support: Although stubble burning is penalized, enforcement of laws is weak, and farmers often feel the state does not provide adequate support for eco-friendly methods. Eg: Despite penalties, farmers feel little pressure to change practices when there is insufficient governmental support or infrastructure for alternatives.

    How does India’s MSP policy influence stubble burning?

    • Encourages Monocropping: The MSP policy promotes the cultivation of high-yield crops like rice and wheat, leading to monocropping, which results in a large amount of stubble that must be cleared. Eg: Farmers in Punjab often grow rice followed by wheat, creating a cycle where large quantities of rice stubble need to be burned to prepare the soil for the next crop.
    • Limits Crop Diversification: The MSP system prioritizes wheat and rice over other crops, making it economically unfeasible for farmers to switch to more sustainable practices or crops that would reduce stubble burning. Eg: Despite the potential for growing other crops, farmers focus on rice and wheat to benefit from MSP, leaving them with stubble that they have no economically viable option to manage.
    • Financial Constraints: The MSP rates for crops like rice and wheat have remained stagnant, making it harder for farmers to invest in alternatives to stubble burning, such as machinery or composting. Eg: With wheat MSP seeing only minimal increases, farmers struggle to cover costs for labor and inputs, leading them to resort to stubble burning as the most cost-effective option to clear fields.

    What has the government done in this situation?

    • Implemented Subsidies for Machinery: The government has provided subsidies for the purchase of machinery like the Happy Seeder to help farmers manage stubble without burning. Eg: The Punjab government has distributed equipment like straw management machines under the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization to reduce stubble burning.
    • Awareness Campaigns: The government has conducted awareness programs to educate farmers about the harmful effects of stubble burning and encourage them to adopt alternative practices. Eg: The Ministry of Agriculture and local bodies in states like Punjab and Haryana have launched campaigns to raise awareness about the environmental and health risks of stubble burning.
    • Legal Measures and Penalties: Various state governments, including Punjab, have imposed fines and penalties on farmers found burning stubble, aiming to deter the practice. Eg: The Punjab government introduced a fine for stubble burning, with penalties reaching up to Rs 2,500 for each violation, although enforcement remains challenging.

    Way forward: 

    • Promote Crop Diversification: Encourage farmers to shift from paddy to less water-intensive and non-stubble-generating crops through assured procurement and better MSP for alternative crops. Eg: Incentivize crops like millets and pulses to reduce stubble generation.
    • Strengthen Support and Infrastructure: Scale up access to sustainable stubble management technologies and ensure timely financial and logistic support to small and marginal farmers. Eg: Expand reach of Happy Seeder and bio-decomposer solutions through local cooperatives and custom hiring centers.

    Mains PYQ:

     [UPSC 2015] Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata are the three Mega cities of the country but the air pollution is much more serious probelm in Delhi as compared to the other two. Why is this so?

    Linkage: Delhi’s severe air pollution, especially at certain times of the year, is caused by a combination of its location in the Indo-Gangetic Plain, nearby states burning crop stubble, and weather conditions that trap pollutants.

  • [pib] Indian researchers introduce ‘Toxicity Standard’ of PM2.5 Pollution

    Why in the News?

    A recent study conducted in Kolkata shows that the toxicity value of PM2.5 experiences a sudden jump when the pollution level reaches around 70 µg/m³.

    About PM2.5

    • PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or smaller.
    • It is a major air pollutant linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Long-term exposure increases the risk of lung cancer, heart disease, asthma, and other health issues.
    • Major sources include vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, construction dust, biomass burning, and solid waste burning, contributing to both outdoor and indoor pollution.
    • WHO recommends that the annual average PM2.5 concentration should NOT exceed 5 µg/m³, and the 24-hour average should not exceed 15 µg/m³ for more than 3-4 days per year.

    PM2.5 on Govt. Focus: National Clean Air Program (NCAP)

    • Launched in 2019 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), the NCAP aims to reduce particulate matter by 40% by 2026 compared to 2017 levels.
    • It targets 131 non-attainment cities across India, focusing on improving air quality and addressing sources of pollution.

    About the Notified Toxicity Standard for PM2.5 

    • A new toxicity standard for PM2.5 in Kolkata sets the critical threshold at 70 µg/m³.
    • Below this level, toxicity remains stable, but it sharply increases once the concentration exceeds 70 µg/m³.
    • It emphasizes reducing pollution sources, particularly biomass and solid waste burning, which contribute significantly to high PM2.5 levels and increased toxicity in Kolkata.
    • Policy Recommendation: To reduce health risks, air quality control measures should aim to keep PM2.5 levels below 70 µg/m³.
    [UPSC 2022] In the context of WHO Air Quality Guidelines, consider the following statements:

    1. The 24-hour mean of PM2.5 should not exceed 15 µg/m3 and annual mean of PM2.5 should not exceed 5 µg/m3.

    2. In a year, the highest levels of ozone pollution occur during the periods of inclement weather.

    3. PM10 can penetrate the lung barrier and enter the bloodstream.

    4. Excessive ozone in the air can trigger asthma.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

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

     

  • CPCB revises Classification of Industries

    Why in the News?

    The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has recently updated its classification of industries, introducing a new category known as the ‘Blue Category.’

    Classification of Industries by CPCB:

    • The CPCB classifies industries based on their environmental impact, focusing on air pollution, water pollution, and hazardous waste generation.
    • Industries are classified using the Pollution Index (PI), which is calculated by considering air, water, and waste pollution, with equal weight given to each factor.
    • PI Categories:
      1. White: PI < 25 (least polluting industries)
      2. Green: 25 ≤ PI < 55
      3. Orange: 55 ≤ PI < 80
      4. Red: PI > 80 (most polluting industries)
    • This system helps determine industry locations, inspection norms, and pollution-related health impacts.
    • It is regulated by the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to improve environmental standards.
    • Presently 419 industrial sectors are categorized into Red, Orange, Green, White, and Blue.

    About the ‘Blue’ Category (Newly Introduced):

    • The Blue Category was introduced for industries providing Essential Environmental Services (EES) like pollution management and waste control.
    • It recognizes industries involved in critical environmental management, such as waste-to-energy plants, sewage treatment plants, and landfill management.
    • Industries in the Blue category receive a 2-year extension on their consent to operate as an incentive for their role in managing pollution.
    • Scope: Includes industries that manage waste from both domestic and industrial sources, such as:
      • Waste-to-Energy (WTE) Plants: Now in the Blue category despite their high PI, due to their role in waste energy recovery.
      • Compressed Biogas (CBG) Plants: Classified as Blue for their low environmental impact when processing municipal waste and agro residue.
      • Sewage Treatment Plants & Landfills: These facilities manage environmental hazards through controlled waste disposal.
    • Blue category industries must comply with all environmental norms, and their Pollution Index is still calculated as per the standard formula.
    • Industries showing successful management may receive extended operating permits and other incentives.
    [UPSC 2021] With reference to furnace oil, consider the following statements:

    1.It is a product of oil refineries. 2.Some industries use it to generate power. 3.Its use causes sulfur emissions into the environment.

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

     

  • Extinct Dire Wolf species returns after 12,500 years

    Why in the News?

    Colossal Biosciences, a biotech firm based in US, has successfully bred the extinct Dire Wolf pups using gene-editing technologies.

    About Dire Wolf (Aenocyon dirus)

    • The dire wolf lived during the Pleistocene Epoch, approximately 6 million to 11,700 years ago, and went extinct around 13,000 years ago.
    • Physical Characteristics and Behaviour:
      • It was larger than the modern gray wolf, standing about 5 feet tall at the shoulder and weighing up to 150 pounds, significantly heavier than the average gray wolf.
      • It had a stockier body, a robust skull, and powerful jaws, adapted for hunting and consuming large prey. It likely had light or white fur, unlike the gray, black, or white coats of modern wolves.
      • As an apex predator, the dire wolf primarily preyed on large mammals like bison and horses.
      • While it did not hunt in packs as effectively due to its size, it was capable of cooperative hunting when needed.
    • Extinction:
      • The species went extinct likely due to a combination of prey depletion, climate change, and the impact of human activities.
      • Fossils have been found across a wide geographical range, from the La Brea Tar Pits in California to the Mississippi River Valley.
    • Genomic Comparison:
      • The gene-edited pups share 99.5% DNA of gray wolves but differ in the remaining 0.5%, which accounts for the dire wolf traits.
      • These pups are not exact clones of the dire wolf but are considered “dire wolves” based on their physical resemblance.

    Extinct Dire Wolf species returns after 12,500 years

    Technologies Used for Resurrection:

    • Ancient DNA Extraction & Analysis: DNA from 13,000 to 72,000-year-old fossils was sequenced to identify key genetic traits.
    • Gene Editing (CRISPR): Scientists used CRISPR to edit gray wolf DNA, introducing features like size, fur color, and muscular traits to resemble the dire wolf.
    • Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer (SCNT): Edited somatic cells from gray wolves were used to create embryos implanted in dog surrogates. Genetically modified pups were born after 62 days.
    • Embryo Implantation: The gene-edited embryos developed into the first de-extinct dire wolf pups.
    [UPSC 2018] The term “”sixth mass extinction/sixth extinction”” is often mentioned in the news in the context of the discussion of:

    (a) Widespread monoculture practices in agriculture and large-scale commercial farming with indiscriminate use of chemicals in many parts of the world that may result in the loss of good native ecosystems.

    (b) Fears of a possible collision of a meteorite with the Earth in the near future in the manner it happened 65 million years ago that caused the mass extinction of many species including those of dinosaurs.

    (c) Large scale cultivation of genetically modified crops in many parts of the world and promoting their cultivation in other parts of the world which may cause the disappearance of good native crop plants and the loss of food biodiversity.

    (d) Mankind’s over-exploitation/misuse of natural resources, fragmentation/loss of natural habitats, destruction of ecosystems, pollution and global climate change.