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

  • Species in news: Gharials

    Why in the News?

    Madhya Pradesh CM released 10 gharials into the Chambal River at the National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary in Morena.

    Species in news Gharials

    About Gharial

    • The gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) is a unique species of crocodilian, characterized by its long, slender snout, which is perfectly adapted for catching fish.
    • The species derives its name from the “ghara”, a bulbous growth found on the snouts of adult males, which aids in vocalization and mating displays.
    • It is a fish-eating crocodile native to the Indian subcontinent.
    • They are a crucial indicator of clean river water.

    Conservation Status:

    • Recognizing the rapid decline in gharial populations, India launched captive breeding and release programs in the late 1970s.
    • Between 1975 and 1982, the country established 16 captive breeding centers and 5 protected sanctuaries to ensure the survival of the species.
    • Gharials are ‘Critically Endangered’ in the IUCN Red List of Species.
    • The species is also listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
    • Today, gharials primarily survive in 5 major refuges:
    1. National Chambal Sanctuary (NCS) – The largest stronghold of gharials.
    2. Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh.
    3. Chitwan National Park in Nepal.
    4. Son River Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh.
    5. Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary in Odisha.

    PYQ:

    [2013] Consider the following fauna of India:

    1. Gharial

    2. Leatherback turtle

    3. Swamp deer

    Which of the above is/are endangered?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 1, 2 and 3

    (d) None

     

  • What is Black Plastic?

    Why in the News?

    A recent study suggested that black plastic contains harmful flame retardants, which may leach into food at hazardous levels.

    What is Black Plastic?

    • Black plastic is often made from recycled electronic waste like old computers, TVs, and appliances.
    • These electronics contain flame retardants (such as bromine-based compounds), heavy metals (lead, cadmium, mercury), and other hazardous chemicals.
    • Flame retardants are added to prevent fire hazards, but they can persist in recycled plastics.
    • Many of these chemicals are now banned in several countries due to their toxicity.
    • However, legacy plastics containing these substances continue to enter the recycling stream, leading to contamination of household products.

    Threats Posed by Black Plastic:

    • Contains Toxic Chemicals: Made from recycled e-waste, it may have flame retardants, heavy metals, and antimony.
    • Food Contamination: Heat and acidic foods can leach harmful chemicals into meals.
    • Environmental Impact: Difficult to recycle, it pollutes landfills and groundwater.
    • Health Risks: Linked to hormonal issues, neurological damage, and cancer.

    PYQ:

    [2019] Why is there a great concern about the ‘microbeads’ that are released into environment?

    (a) They are considered harmful to marine ecosystems.

    (b) They are considered to cause skin cancer in children.

    (c) They are small enough to be absorbed by crop plants in irrigated fields.

    (d) They are often found to be used as food adulterants.

     

  • Microsoft unveils ‘Majorana 1’ Chip for Quantum Computing

    Why in the News?

    Microsoft has unveiled Majorana 1, a groundbreaking quantum chip that introduces a more stable and scalable approach to quantum computing.

    What is Microsoft’s Majorana 1 Chip?

    • Majorana 1 is Microsoft’s latest quantum processor that introduces a new type of stable and scalable qubit based on Majorana fermions.
    • Microsoft believes that this breakthrough could enable practical quantum computing by 2027-29.
    • Majorana Fermions:
      • First theorized by Ettore Majorana in 1937.
      • Exotic particles that act as their own antiparticles.
      • Microsoft engineered them using topological conductors, making qubits more stable and resistant to errors.

    Features of Majorana 1 Chip:

    • Uses topological qubits, which require less error correction compared to traditional superconducting qubits.
    • More scalable, allowing the quantum chip to reach up to 1 million qubits in the future.
    • Built from indium arsenide-aluminum topo-conductors, unlike conventional silicon-based quantum chips.
    • Operates at near absolute zero temperature, tuned with magnetic fields to create a stable quantum environment.
    • Currently an 8-qubit chip, but designed with an architecture that supports significant expansion.

    What is Quantum Computing?

    • Quantum computing is a new approach to computation based on the principles of quantum mechanics that allows computers to process information exponentially faster than classical computers.
    • Unlike classical computers that use binary bits (0 or 1), quantum computers use qubits, which can exist in both 0 and 1 simultaneously (superposition).
    • Key Principles of Quantum Computing:
      • Superposition:  Qubits exist in multiple states at once.
      • Entanglement: –Qubits can be linked, meaning a change in one affects the other instantly.
      • Quantum Tunneling: Qubits can pass through energy barriers.
      • Quantum Interference:  Enhances correct probabilities while canceling out incorrect ones.
    • Quantum computers solve complex problems that are impossible for classical computers, such as simulating molecules, optimizing logistics, and advancing AI.

     

    PYQ:

    [2022] Which one of the following is the context in which the term “qubit” is mentioned?

    (a) Cloud Services
    (b) Quantum Computing
    (c) Visible Light Communication Technologies
    (d) Wireless Communication Technologies

     

  • NGT Report on Ganga Water Quality

    Why in the News?

    The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has raised concerns over the water quality of the Ganga at Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The river is failing to meet bathing standards due to high Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) and faecal coliform contamination.

    Key Findings of the Ganga Water Quality Assessment at Triveni Sangam:

    • Water is unsafe for bathing as per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) standards.
    • BOD levels exceeded the permissible limit of 3 mg/L on multiple days in January 2025.
    • Government releasing 10,000-11,000 cusecs of fresh water to improve quality.
    • Faecal coliform levels (E. coli) far exceed safe limits due to sewage contamination.
    • Safe limit: 2,500 MPN/100 ml; Detected levels: 49,000 MPN/100 ml (Ganga) and 33,000 MPN/100 ml (Yamuna).

    What is Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD)?

    • BOD measures the amount of oxygen required by bacteria to break down organic matter in water.
    • Higher BOD levels indicate higher organic pollution, which can lead to oxygen depletion and aquatic life destruction.
    • Safe limit for bathing water is below 3 mg/L.
    • Excessive BOD levels suggest sewage, industrial waste, or decomposing organic matter contamination.
    • BOD levels above safe limits can cause waterborne diseases and disrupt aquatic ecosystems.

    PYQ:

    [2017] Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) is a standard criterion for:

    (a) Measuring oxygen levels in blood

    (b) Computing oxygen levels in forest ecosystems

    (c) Pollution assay in aquatic ecosystems

    (d) Assessing oxygen levels in high-altitude regions

     

  • Why global sea ice cover has dipped to record low — what this means

    Why in the News?

    Between February 8 and 13, the total area of sea ice in the Arctic and Antarctic shrank to 15.76 million sq km, breaking the previous record low of 15.93 million sq km from early 2023, according to a BBC analysis of data from the US National Snow and Ice Data Center (NSIDC).

    What are the reasons for the record low?

    • Warm Air and Ocean Temperatures: Elevated air and sea temperatures have significantly contributed to the melting of both Arctic and Antarctic sea ice. Warmer conditions, particularly towards the end of summer, have led to increased melting rates, especially in the Antarctic region.
    • Wind Patterns: Changes in atmospheric dynamics, including stronger westerly winds associated with the Southern Annular Mode (SAM), have disrupted sea ice formation and stability. In the Antarctic, these winds can break apart ice more easily due to its thinner and more mobile nature compared to the thicker Arctic ice.
    • Delayed Freezing: In the Arctic, a delayed freezing process around regions like Hudson Bay has occurred due to unusually warm ocean temperatures, preventing the formation of new ice during winter.
    • Increased Freshwater Input: The melting of glaciers and ice shelves adds freshwater to the oceans, which can alter ocean stratification and impact sea ice formation. While freshwater can initially encourage sea ice growth in some contexts, it also leads to changes that may ultimately reduce overall sea ice extent.
    • Feedback Mechanisms: The loss of sea ice creates feedback loops that further exacerbate warming. As less ice remains to reflect sunlight, more solar radiation is absorbed by the ocean, leading to increased temperatures and further melting of ice.

    What does “dip” mean?

    • In the context of the recent report on sea ice, the term “dip” refers to a significant decrease or reduction in the extent of sea ice coverage. Specifically, it denotes the record low measurement of combined Arctic and Antarctic sea ice, which fell to 15.76 million square kilometres, marking a decline from previous levels.
    • This “dip” highlights the alarming trend of diminishing sea ice, which is crucial for regulating global temperatures and maintaining ecological balance in polar regions.

    What could be its impact?

    • Accelerated Global Warming: Less sea ice means more ocean water is exposed to sunlight, absorbing heat instead of reflecting it. Example: The Arctic is warming nearly four times faster than the global average, leading to extreme weather patterns worldwide.
    • Disruptions in Ocean Currents: Melting sea ice releases freshwater into the ocean, reducing salinity and slowing down deep-water circulation. Example: The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), which influences global climate patterns, is weakening due to increased freshwater from melting Arctic ice.
    • Threat to Marine Ecosystems: Sea ice loss affects marine species dependent on stable ice conditions for survival. Example: Polar bears rely on sea ice for hunting seals. As ice declines, they face starvation and habitat loss. Similarly, krill populations in Antarctica, a key food source for whales and penguins, are declining due to changing ice conditions.
    • More Extreme Weather Events: Changes in polar ice influence atmospheric circulation, leading to unpredictable weather. Example: The weakening of the polar vortex due to Arctic warming has been linked to severe cold waves in North America and Europe, such as the Texas winter storm in 2021.
    • Coastal and Infrastructure Damage: Rising temperatures due to ice melt contribute to permafrost thawing, which destabilizes infrastructure in polar regions. Example: In Siberia, Russia, thawing permafrost has caused buildings and roads to collapse, posing a major economic and environmental challenge.

    What measures have been taken at the international level?

    • International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation (2025): The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and UNESCO have declared 2025 as the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the importance of glaciers and ice sheets, which store a significant portion of the world’s freshwater, and to promote actions to mitigate their melting.
    • Global Cryosphere Watch: The WMO’s Global Cryosphere Watch network, which includes scientists from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), has been actively monitoring and reporting on cryosphere changes. Their findings highlight alarming trends in ice loss and emphasize the need for immediate action to address these issues.
    • Collaborative Research Initiatives: Various international scientific collaborations are underway to study and model the impacts of climate change on sea ice. These efforts involve researchers from multiple countries working together to gather data, analyze trends, and develop strategies for adaptation and mitigation.
    • Climate Action Frameworks: Global climate agreements, such as the Paris Agreement, encourage countries to commit to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which are a primary driver of climate change affecting sea ice.
    • Public Awareness Campaigns: International organizations are engaging in campaigns to educate the public about the significance of sea ice and glaciers in regulating global climate systems.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthening Climate Mitigation Efforts: Nations must enhance commitments under the Paris Agreement by accelerating renewable energy adoption, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and implementing carbon pricing mechanisms to curb global warming.
    • Enhancing Polar and Oceanic Monitoring: Strengthen international collaboration for real-time satellite monitoring, expand scientific research on polar ice dynamics, and develop adaptive strategies to protect vulnerable ecosystems and coastal communities.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q How do the melting of the Arctic ice and glaciers of the Antarctic differently affect the weather patterns and human activities on the Earth? Explain. (UPSC IAS/2021)

  • Parliamentary Panel recommends Paddy Residue MSP to curb Stubble Burning

    Why in the News?

    Recently, a parliamentary committee, led by Rajya Sabha MP Milind Deora, has suggested setting a minimum support price (MSP) for paddy residue. This aims to discourage farmers from burning stubble, which is a major cause of air pollution in Delhi.

    What were the observations made by the Parliamentary standing committee?

    • Stubble Burning as a Key Cause of Air Pollution: The committee acknowledged that stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana significantly contributes to Delhi’s air pollution during winter.
    • Farmers’ Constraints: Farmers burn stubble due to a short window (25 days) between paddy harvesting and wheat sowing.
    • State-wise Disparities: Punjab generates 16.1 million tonnes of non-basmati paddy straw annually, while Haryana generates only 4.04 million tonnes. Punjab also reported 10,990 stubble-burning incidents in 2023-24, compared to Haryana’s 1,406.
    • Existing Government Schemes: The Central government provides subsidies for crop residue management machinery, but high fuel costs make their usage unfeasible for many farmers.
    • Incentive Gap: Haryana provides higher financial support (₹7,000/acre for crop diversification, ₹4,000 for direct seeding of rice), whereas Punjab offers only ₹1,500 for direct seeding.
    • Technological Gaps: Even after mechanized harvesting, 10-15 cm of stubble remains in fields, which cannot be manually cleared due to labour shortages.

    What recommendations were given by the Panel?

    • Minimum Price for Paddy Residue: Establish a mechanism to determine a minimum price for paddy residue, similar to the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops, in consultation with the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). The benchmark price should be announced before the Kharif season to reflect residue collection costs.
    • Promote Short-Duration Paddy Varieties: Urge state governments to promote short-duration paddy varieties instead of long-duration ones like PUSA 44.
    • Unified National Policy: Implement a unified national policy to integrate agricultural residue into bioenergy generation, ensuring inter-ministerial coordination.
    • Real-time Forecasting: Establish real-time mapping of crop acreage and forecasting of crop maturity and weather patterns to estimate land under cultivation and assess district-wise crop yields for better planning.
    • Storage Facilities: Set up interim storage facilities in districts where industries or end-users are not available within a 20–50 km range to facilitate efficient crop residue collection and transport.
    • Incentives and Subsidies: Provide incentives for the transportation of stubble to discourage in-field burning and subsidize machinery for in-situ paddy straw management. Farmers should get a 50 percent subsidy for machinery and 80 percent for establishing centers for renting out machines for managing paddy straw.
    • Technological Advancements: Develop technology that combines the work of harvesters and cutters to completely clear stubble from fields and promote early-maturing crop varieties.

    What is Delhi govt’s 20-point Winter Action Plan?

    • Real-Time Monitoring and Special Task Force: The plan includes the use of drones for real-time monitoring of pollution hotspots, marking a shift from manual inventory methods. Additionally, a special task force will be formed to oversee pollution control efforts and ensure compliance with regulations across various sectors.
    • Control Measures for Pollution Sources: The action plan emphasizes controlling dust pollution through increased water sprinkling, deployment of anti-smog guns, and strict regulations on construction sites. It also addresses vehicular emissions by promoting work-from-home policies and considering the implementation of an odd-even vehicle rationing scheme during high pollution days.
    • Public Participation and Emergency Measures: The plan encourages public involvement through campaigns and initiatives aimed at reducing pollution, such as banning firecrackers and promoting eco-friendly practices.
      • Emergency measures like artificial rain are also proposed to mitigate severe pollution events expected around Diwali and during stubble burning seasons.

    Way forward: 

    • Sustainable Agricultural Practices & Farmer Incentives: Strengthen financial incentives for crop residue management, promote widespread adoption of short-duration paddy varieties, and enhance technological solutions for complete stubble removal to reduce reliance on burning.
    • Integrated Pollution Control & Public Awareness: Implement a coordinated air quality management framework involving real-time monitoring, stricter enforcement of emission norms, and large-scale public participation campaigns to promote eco-friendly practices and behavioural change.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q 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? (UPSC IAS/2015)

  • What is the Aravalli Safari Park Project?

    Why in the News?

    The Haryana government has proposed an ambitious 3,858-hectare Aravalli Safari Park spread across Gurugram and Nuh, which aims to be the world’s largest safari park.

    About the Aravalli Range

    • The Aravalli Range is one of the oldest fold mountain ranges in the world, dating back to the Proterozoic era.
    • It stretches 692 km from Gujarat to Delhi, passing through Rajasthan and Haryana.
    • The range acts as a natural green barrier, preventing the expansion of the Thar Desert into eastern Rajasthan and the Gangetic plains.
    • Highest Peak: Guru Shikhar (1,722 meters) in Mount Abu, Rajasthan.
    • Rivers originating from the Aravalli Range:
      • Banas and Sahibi Rivers (tributaries of the Yamuna).
      • Luni River, which flows into the Rann of Kutch.
    • Rich in mineral resources, including copper, zinc, lead, and marble.
    • The Aravalli hills play a critical role in groundwater recharge, acting as natural aquifers.
    • 80% of the range is in Rajasthan, while the rest is in Haryana, Delhi, and Gujarat.

    What is the Aravalli Safari Park Project?

    • The Haryana government has proposed a 3,858-hectare Aravalli Safari Park, intended to be the world’s largest.
    • The project covers 2,574 hectares in Gurugram and 1,284 hectares in Nuh.
    • It will include animal enclosures, botanical gardens, aquariums, cable cars, hotels, and an animal hospital.
    • Initially managed by the Tourism Department, the project is now under the Forest Department, with an expert committee overseeing its execution.

    Why is there Opposition?

    • Ecological Concerns: The Aravallis prevent desertification, and large-scale construction could disrupt groundwater recharge and biodiversity.
    • Threat to Water Security: The region acts as an aquifer, and excessive tourism, vehicular traffic, and construction could worsen Gurugram and Nuh’s water crisis, already classified as “over-exploited” by the Central Ground Water Board.
    • Legal Violations: The project falls under protected forest areas, governed by:
      • Forest Conservation Act, 1980.
      • Punjab Land Preservation Act (PLPA), 1900, restricting deforestation.
      • T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad Judgment (1996), which extends legal protection to non-notified forest land.

    PYQ:

    [2011] The Himalayan Range is very rich in species diversity. Which one among the following is the most appropriate reason for this Phenomenon?

    (a) It has a high rainfall that supports luxuriant vegetative growth

    (b) It is a confluence of different bio-geographical zones.

    (c) Exotic and invasive species have not been introduced in this region.

    (d) It has less human interference.

     

  • Similipal Tiger Reserve

    Why in the News?

    The Similipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha has witnessed a significant reduction in poaching incidents following the installation of TrailGuard AI, an AI-powered early alert system that detects intruders in the forest.

    About Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR)

    • Located in Mayurbhanj District, Northern Odisha, characterized by hilly and undulating terrain with open grasslands and dense forests.
    • Twin peaks: Khairiburu and Meghashini, reaching 1,515 meters above sea level.
    • Inhabited by tribal communities such as Kolha, Santhala, Bhumija, Gondas, Khadia, Mankadia, and Sahara.
    • Declared a Tiger Reserve in 1956 and brought under Project Tiger in 1973.
    • Recognized as part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves in 2009.
    • Flora:
      • 1,078 species of plants, including 94 species of orchids.
      • Sal (Shorea robusta) is the dominant tree species.
    • Fauna:
      • Rich in wildlife, including Leopards, Elephants, Gaurs, Langurs, Barking Deer, Sloth Bears, Sambar, Pythons, Pangolins, and Flying Squirrels.
      • Diverse birdlife, including migratory species like Bar-Headed Geese and Brahmini Ducks.
      • Home to freshwater snails (Radix genus) in its water bodies.

    Melanistic Tigers of Similipal:

    • Similipal is the only place in the world where pseudo-melanistic tigers are found in the wild.
    • 27 of Odisha’s 30 tigers (AOTE-2023-24) live in Similipal, including 13 pseudo-melanistic tigers.
    • The unique black-striped pattern in these tigers is due to a mutation in the Taqpep gene.

     

    PYQ:

    [2011] Two important rivers – one with its source in Jharkhand (and known by a different name in Odisha), and another, with its source in Odisha – merge at a place only a short distance from the coast of Bay of Bengal before flowing into the sea. This is an important site of wildlife and biodiversity and a protected area.

    Which one of the following could be this?

    (a) Bhitarkanika

    (b) Chandipur-on-sea

    (c) Gopalpur-on-sea

    (d) Simlipal

     

  • Coral Reefs in the Gulf of Eilat recover after a ‘Shutdown’

    Why in the News?

    Researchers have discovered a significant pause in coral reef growth in the Gulf of Eilat/Aqaba during the late Holocene period.

    Key Highlights of the Study:

    • The study identified a 4,400 – 1,000-year hiatus in coral growth, similar to events observed in Mexico, Brazil, and Australia.
    • Scientists attribute this temporary halt to a sea-level drop caused by tectonic activity and cooling events, which exposed coral reefs and disrupted their development.
    • Despite this, the reef recovered by recolonizing from deeper coral communities, showcasing its natural resilience.

    Coral Reefs in the Gulf of Eilat recover after a ‘Shutdown'

    About Gulf of Eilat

    • Also known as the Gulf of Aqaba, it is a narrow extension of the Red Sea, located between the Sinai Peninsula (Egypt) and the Arabian Peninsula.
    • It connects to the Red Sea through the Strait of Tiran and borders Egypt, Israel, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia.
    • The city of Eilat (Israel) and Aqaba (Jordan) lie along its shores, making it a strategic trade and tourism hub.

    Geographical and Political Significance:

    • Strategic Trade Route: Provides access to the Indian Ocean via the Red Sea, critical for Israel and Jordan’s maritime trade.
    • Bordering Multiple Nations: Shares coastlines with Egypt, Israel, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia, making it a key area for regional diplomacy and security.
    • Tourism & Marine Biodiversity: Known for coral reefs and marine life, attracting divers and boosting the economies of Eilat and Aqaba.
    • Geopolitical Sensitivity: The Strait of Tiran has been historically significant in Arab-Israeli conflicts, especially during the Six-Day War (1967) when Egypt blocked Israeli access.
    • Energy & Trade Importance: It is an alternative route for oil shipments and goods trade, reducing reliance on the Suez Canal.

    PYQ:

    [2014] Which of the following have coral reefs?

    1. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

    2. Gulf of Kachchh

    3. Gulf of Mannar

    4. Sunderbans

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 3 only

    (b) 2 and 4 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

     

  • Loggerhead Turtles use Geomagnetic Field to navigate large Distances

    Loggerhead Turtles use Geomagnetic Field to navigate large Distances

    Why in the News?

    A new study in Nature reveals that loggerhead turtles can learn and remember the magnetic signature of an area, using Earth’s geomagnetic field for navigation during long migrations.

    About Loggerhead Sea Turtles (Caretta caretta)

    • Loggerhead Sea Turtles belong to the Cheloniidae family, widely distributed across the world’s oceans.
    • They are commonly found in Atlantic, Pacific, Indian Oceans, and the Mediterranean Sea.
    • They Spends most of its life in saltwater and estuarine habitats, coming ashore only to nest.
    • They are omnivorous, feeding primarily on bottom-dwelling invertebrates.
    • It is listed as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
    • International trade banned under CITES Appendix I.

    Significance of the study

    • Loggerhead turtles travel thousands of kilometers across oceans and return to the same feeding and nesting sites.
    • Their ability to store magnetic memories helps them navigate vast distances, reinforcing the hypothesis that other migratory species may also rely on Earth’s magnetic field.

    PYQ:

    [2019] Consider the following statements:

    1. Some species of turtles are herbivores.
    2. Some species of fish are herbivores.
    3. Some species of marine mammals are herbivores.
    4. Some species of snakes are viviparous.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

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