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GS Paper: GS1

  • Building resilience against landslides

    What’s the news?

    • The recent tragic occurrences of landslides in Himachal Pradesh have thrust the Himalayan ecosystem into the spotlight, underscoring its fragility and the imperative to address the vulnerabilities it faces.

    Central idea

    • As the world’s youngest and most rugged mountain range, the Himalayas are a testament to the delicate balance between natural processes, environmental changes, and human activities. To comprehend and address the challenges posed by geohazards and foster sustainable development, a holistic approach backed by advanced technology and collective efforts is essential.

    What are landslides?

    • Landslides are geological events characterized by the sudden movement of rock, soil, and debris down slopes. They can range from small soil shifts to large-scale, destructive movements triggered by factors such as geological conditions, climatic events like heavy rainfall, and human activities like construction and deforestation.
    • Landslides take various forms, including rockfalls, mudslides, debris flows, and avalanches, and they can have significant impacts on landscapes, infrastructure, and communities.

    Factors behind the vulnerability of the Himalayan region to landslides

    • Tectonic Activity: The ongoing collision of tectonic plates beneath the Himalayas results in geological instability, causing fractures and creating weak zones prone to landslides.
    • Surface Processes: Erosion, weathering, and precipitation, including rain and snow, weaken the terrain. These processes, coupled with tectonic forces, make the ecosystem inherently fragile.
    • Climate-Induced Events: Climate change leads to extreme events like heavy rainfall and snowfall. Such events, along with freezing and thawing cycles, saturate the soil and elevate the risk of landslides.
    • Anthropogenic Stresses: Human activities such as deforestation, construction, and mining disrupt the natural equilibrium of slopes. Removing vegetation reduces soil stability and increases its susceptibility to landslides.
    • Hydro-meteorological Factors: Slope gradient, elevation, rock strength, and soil type influence landslide susceptibility. Intense rainfall or rapid snowmelt saturates the ground, triggering landslides on weakened slopes.
    • Riverine Flow and Deforestation: River erosion and slope cutting expose slopes to increased instability. Deforestation removes vegetation that holds soil in place, escalating the landslide risk.
    • Geological Stresses: The convergence of tectonic plates triggers earthquakes, releasing subterranean stresses. This can lead to rock movement along slopes, exacerbating landslide potential.
    • Challenges in Prediction: Complex terrain and varied meteorological conditions in the Himalayas make developing effective landslide prediction systems challenging. Monitoring rainfall thresholds and geological indicators is critical for accurate warnings.

    Impacts of landslides

    • Loss of Life and Infrastructure: Landslides pose a significant risk to human lives, often resulting in casualties and injuries. Buildings, roads, bridges, and other infrastructure can be severely damaged or destroyed, leading to disruptions in communities and hindrances to daily life.
    • Displacement and Evacuation: Landslides can force people to evacuate their homes and communities, often on short notice. This displacement can lead to temporary or long-term homelessness, with people seeking refuge in shelters or with relatives.
    • Economic Consequences: The aftermath of landslides can result in substantial economic losses. Rebuilding damaged infrastructure, homes, and businesses, as well as restoring disrupted services, can place a strain on local economies.
    • Environmental Degradation: Landslides can alter landscapes and natural habitats, leading to erosion, sedimentation of water bodies, and changes in water flow patterns. This can negatively impact ecosystems, aquatic life, and overall environmental health.
    • Infrastructure Disruption: Roads, railways, and other transportation networks can be blocked or damaged by landslides, causing disruptions to travel and hindering the movement of goods and services.
    • Water Quality Issues: The movement of debris and soil during landslides can introduce pollutants into water bodies, potentially affecting water quality and posing risks to human health.
    • Long-Term Effects: Landslides can have lasting impacts on the affected areas. Changes in topography, water drainage patterns, and vegetation can persist for years, influencing local ecosystems and land use.
    • Psychological and social impact: Beyond physical damage, landslides can have psychological effects on survivors, leading to trauma and anxiety. Communities may experience social challenges as they cope with the aftermath and work toward recovery.

    The Imperative for a Unified Council of Himalayan States

    • Diverse Geological and Climatic Factors: The Himalayan region spans diverse geological and climatic conditions, making it imperative to have a collaborative body that comprehensively understands and addresses the varied challenges each state faces.
    • Interconnected Vulnerabilities: Landslides, flash floods, and other hazards often transcend state borders, affecting multiple regions simultaneously. A unified council can facilitate cross-border coordination in disaster management and response.
    • Knowledge and Resource Sharing: Different states possess valuable insights and expertise in handling regional challenges. A unified council can facilitate the sharing of best practices, data, and resources, promoting more effective decision-making.
    • Common Socioeconomic Issues: Many Himalayan states share socioeconomic concerns related to sustainable development, tourism, and livelihoods. A unified council can collectively address these issues, leveraging combined expertise for better outcomes.
    • Environmental Protection: The fragile Himalayan ecosystem requires joint efforts to combat environmental degradation, deforestation, and unsustainable practices. A unified council can formulate and enforce policies for ecosystem conservation.
    • Mitigation Strategies: Developing and implementing landslide mitigation and preparedness strategies demands a coordinated approach. A unified council can pool resources, knowledge, and technology to create effective solutions.
    • Integrated Early Warning Systems: Establishing AI/ML-driven Early Warning Systems for landslides and other disasters requires data integration and real-time monitoring. A unified council can streamline these efforts for the entire region.
    • Disaster Resilience: In the face of climate-induced events, disaster resilience is paramount. A unified council can ensure uniform standards for infrastructure development, emergency response, and community awareness.

    Conclusion

    • The recent landslides in Himachal Pradesh have thrust the Himalayan ecosystem into the limelight, underscoring its vulnerability and the pressing need for enhanced resilience. As we progress, the Himalayas stand as both a challenge and an opportunity, with their natural riches and scenic allure offering a canvas for harmonizing growth and preservation.

  • Drilling in the North Sea: History and environmental concerns

    north sea

    Central Idea

    • Recent endorsement by U.K. Prime Minister of plans for fresh fossil fuel drilling off Britain’s coast has sparked a debate among environmental experts.
    • Amidst global concerns about climate change, the decision raises questions about the country’s commitment to sustainability and its impact on climate goals.

    Evolution of North Sea Drilling

    • Origins and Legislation: The North Sea drilling history dates back to the 1958 Geneva Convention on the Continental Shelf, which set the stage for exploration in the region.
    • Continental Shelf Act: The U.K. Parliament’s enactment of the Continental Shelf Act in 1964 established the country’s jurisdiction over oil and gas resources beneath its seabed.

    Milestones and Concerns in Drilling

    • Early Exploration and Challenges: British Petroleum (BP) was granted the first exploration license in 1964, leading to natural gas discovery the following year.
    • Forties Field Discovery: BP’s breakthrough commercial oil discovery in the Forties Field in 1970 marked a significant milestone.
    • Expanding Operations and Safety Revamp: The following years witnessed increased exploration activities and installation of oil platforms. The Piper Alpha disaster in 1988 prompted crucial safety reforms.

    Rationale and Concerns

    • Government’s Position: In an official statement, the government justified the move as a strategy to enhance Britain’s energy independence.
    • Environmental Alarm: However, environmental experts express apprehension, especially given the global push towards averting irreversible climate change.

    North Sea Transition Authority and Offshore Licensing

    • NTSA’s Role: The North Sea Transition Authority (NTSA) is responsible for regulating the oil, gas, and carbon storage sectors.
    • Offshore Licensing Round: The NTSA is currently conducting the 33rd offshore oil and gas licensing round, aiming to award more than 100 licenses.
    • Timing and Awards: The first licenses are expected to be granted in the autumn, furthering the expansion of drilling operations.

    Shaping Geopolitical Energy Dependence

    • Energy Security Concerns: The Prime Minister emphasized the necessity of domestic oil and gas sources, even as the country aims to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.
    • Strategic Implications: The decision is portrayed as an effort to reduce reliance on oil and gas imports, which could originate from potentially unfavourable sources.

    Ecological Concerns and Climate Impact

    • Adverse Environmental Effects: Offshore drilling poses risks to workers, marine ecosystems, and climate health. It contributes to ocean warming, rising sea levels, and threatens marine biodiversity.
    • Carbon Pollution Impact: Carbon pollution settling into oceans contributes to acidification, endangering coral reefs and shellfish.

    Evaluating UK’s Climate Commitments

    • Climate Change Committee Report: The Climate Change Committee (CCC) pointed out deficiencies in the U.K.’s preparations for climate change under the National Adaptation Programme.
    • Adaptation Implementation: The CCC’s assessment highlighted a lack of substantial implementation of adaptation measures to address climate risks.
    • Inconsistent with Paris Agreement: The Climate Action Tracker assesses the U.K.’s climate action as not fully aligned with the Paris Agreement.
    • Long-Term Targets: The U.K.’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and long-term targets do not reflect a fair share of global efforts to mitigate climate change.
    • Incompatibility with Limits: Licensing new oil and gas extraction plans contradicts the 1.5°C temperature rise limit set by the Paris Agreement.

    Conclusion

    • The UK’s endorsement of offshore drilling reflects a complex balancing act between energy security, economic considerations, and environmental stewardship.
    • As the world grapples with the imperative of combating climate change, the decisions made today hold the potential to shape the course of a sustainable future.

  • Extreme heat can impact your mind, not just the body: Here is how

    heat

    What’s the news?

    • As heatwaves grow fiercer and more frequent, their influence on mental health becomes undeniable, prompting experts to explore the intricate connections.

    Central idea

    • In recent times, the intensifying and prolonged heatwaves have gone beyond scorching temperatures and have started to scorch minds as well. The impact of soaring temperatures on mental health has gained newfound recognition, necessitating a deeper examination of the interplay between climate change and our psychological well-being.

    What are Heat Waves?

    • Heatwaves generally occur in India between March and June.
    • IMD declares a heatwave event when the maximum daytime temperature for a location in the plains crosses 40 degrees Celsius.
    • Over the hills, the threshold temperature is 30 degrees Celsius.

    What is meant by Climate Distress?

    • Climate Distress is a term coined to describe a range of emotions triggered by the environmental changes brought about by climate change.
    • It encompasses feelings such as anxiety, terror, sadness, shame, and guilt, all of which stem from the recognition of the broader consequences of climate change

    Frequency of Heatwaves in India

    • Increase in frequency and intensity: India has been witnessing an increase in the frequency and intensity of heatwaves in recent years.
    • For instance: In April and May 2022, around 350 million Indians were exposed to strong heat stress. On average, six heat wave events occur every year in the northern parts of the country.
    • Rise in summer temperatures as well as winter temperatures: Summer temperatures have risen by an average of 0.5–0.9 °C across districts in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Rajasthan between 1990 and 2019. In addition, around 54% of India’s districts have seen a similar rise in winter temperatures.
    • Temperature rise projection: It is expected that between 2021 and 2050, the maximum temperature will rise by 2–3.5 °C in 100 districts and by 1.5–2°C in around 455 districts. Winter temperatures will also rise between 1°C and 1.5°C in around 485 districts.

    Heatwaves: The Looming Threat

    • Studies have uncovered alarming correlations between elevated temperatures and a rise in suicides, violent crimes, aggression, hospitalizations for mental disorders, and even mortality.
    • Patients with conditions like schizophrenia, dementia, psychosis, and substance use disorders are particularly vulnerable.
    • For every 1-degree Celsius increase, the risk of death among patients with such disorders rises by nearly 5%.
    • A seminal study analyzed data from over 2 million individuals with private insurance, revealing a spike in emergency department visits for mental health issues during the hottest days of summer.

    heat

    The Physical-Mental Connection

    • Heat’s influence isn’t confined to discomfort; it sets off a cascade of physiological changes that translate into emotional and mental shifts.
    • Increased heart rates due to heat can lead to heightened anxiety.
    • The neurotransmitter serotonin, linked to mood regulation, anxiety, and depression, also affects temperature perception.
    • Certain drugs can amplify heat’s impact on body temperature regulation, such as common medications for schizophrenia, depression, and bipolar disorder.

    Heatwaves: The Potent Agents of Psychological Distress

    • Rise in Suicides and Violent Crimes: Research has uncovered a striking connection between heatwaves and a surge in suicides, violent crimes, and aggression. Studies have reported a 0.7% increase in suicides linked to rising temperatures. Additionally, a 4% to 6% increase in interpersonal violence, including homicides, has been observed during heatwaves.
    • Aggravation of Mental Illnesses: Conditions like anxiety, schizophrenia, and depression are exacerbated by heatwaves. Irritability, anger, and anxiety intensify, making symptom management challenging.
    • Sleep Impact: Heatwaves disrupt sleep patterns, impacting mental health. Disturbed sleep leads to mood disorders, anxiety, and cognitive impairment.
    • Vulnerable Groups: Older adults, adolescents, and those with preexisting mental issues are especially vulnerable. Physiological vulnerabilities worsen their mental distress during heatwaves.
    • Physiological Stress Response: Heatwaves trigger increased heart rates, heightening anxiety levels. The physiological stress response amplifies emotional arousal.
    • Medication Interaction: Mental health medications interacting with heat worsen physical and mental effects, exacerbating psychological distress.
    • Routine Disruption and Isolation: Heatwaves disrupt routines and limit social interactions, fostering loneliness and frustration, amplifying psychological distress.
    • Climate Change Impact: Heatwaves are part of climate change’s wider impact, contributing to environmental uncertainty. This awareness triggers anxiety, fear, and helplessness.

    Coping Strategies

    • Recognizing the Reality: Understanding that the threats posed by heatwaves and climate change are real is the first step. Acknowledging the potential impact on mental health helps individuals prepare and seek appropriate support.
    • Traditional Coping Strategies: While traditional coping strategies like cognitive behavioral therapy and medications are valuable, the unique nature of climate distress requires acknowledging that the threat is tangible and not just a matter of perception.
    • Advocating for Change: Channeling distress into advocacy can be empowering. Participating in climate initiatives and advocating for policies addressing the root causes of climate change can provide a sense of purpose.
    • Fostering Resilience: Building resilience through mindfulness techniques and stress reduction practices can help individuals manage the anxiety and fear associated with climate distress.

    Conclusion

    • Heatwaves carry a dual impact: physical discomfort and psychological distress. Recognizing and addressing the mental health implications of climate change is an urgent endeavor. As our understanding evolves, it becomes imperative to support individuals and communities in navigating the profound mental effects of escalating temperatures.

    Also read:

    Heat domes, anticyclones and climate change: What’s causing heat waves across the world?

  • Ajnala Massacre of 1857 and its Rediscovery

    ajnala

    Central Idea

    • A recent collaborative effort of professional geneticists has resulted in a scientific confirmation of the Ajnala massacre – an event lost to history for 165 years.
    • This project, marked by emotional intensity and rigorous analysis, brought long-lost victims to light through molecular and isotope data.

    Ajnala Massacre

    • Buried Tragedy: 282 soldiers of the 26th Native Bengal Infantry Regiment met a brutal fate during the 1857 uprising, drowned in a well by the British East India Company.
    • Discovery of Location: Cooper’s book provided clues that helped locate the 1857 Kallianwala Martyrs’ Well beneath the Gurdwara Singh Sabha in Ajnala.
    • Chance Encounter: In 2003, historian Surinder Kochhar found a reference to ‘Ajnala’ in a discarded book titled “Crisis in Punjab” by Frederick Henry Cooper.
    • Massacre Rediscovered: Kochhar’s research led to the revelation of the Ajnala Massacre, a grim incident hidden for over 157 years.

    Excavation and Revelation

    • Unveiling the Remains: The well was excavated in 2014, exposing the skeletal remains of the soldiers.
    • Gruesome Discovery:  During the 1857 Sepoy mutiny, many Indian soldiers revolted against the British. Around 500 revolted at Mian Mir Cantonment in Lahore.
    • Evading execution: They swam across the Ravi River to reach the town of Ajnala, now in Amritsar district. Of them, 218 were killed by British soldiers at Dadian Sofian village near Ajnala.
    • Dumped into a well: The remaining 282 were stuffed in a small room, where many died of asphyxiation. The rest were shot dead and their bodies were thrown into a well, which was later named “Kalianwala Khu” and “Shaheedan da Khu”.

    Verification and Acknowledgment

    • Scientific Verification: DNA-based evidence confirmed that the remains belonged to soldiers of the 26th Native Bengal Infantry regiment.
    • Historical Importance: The Ajnala Massacre adds to the narrative of the 1857 Indian uprising against the British East India Company’s oppression.

    Conclusion

    • The Ajnala Massacre underscores the often-overlooked brutalities of the 1857 Indian uprising.
    • The lack of acknowledgement and memorials can be attributed to the government’s hesitance to address uncomfortable aspects of history.

  • Last survivors of Piripkura tribe found

    piripkura

    Central Idea

    • Deep within the Amazon rainforest, the story of Tamandua Piripkura unfolds, embodying the struggle of Indigenous people.
    • This man is one of the last three survivors of the Piripkura people.

    Who are the Piripkura?

    • The Piripkura tribe is a small and isolated indigenous group in Brazil.
    • They are known for their extreme isolation and limited contact with the outside world.
    • They have intentionally avoided contact with mainstream society and have maintained their traditional way of life for generations.
    • The Piripkura territory is located in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil.
    • Their land lies within the Amazon rainforest, an area that is rich in biodiversity and crucial for the ecological balance of the region.

    Their dwindling population

    • The Piripkura tribe is estimated to consist of only 3 individuals.
    • Exact population figures are difficult to determine due to their isolation and the challenges associated with conducting a comprehensive census.
    • They face numerous challenges to their survival, including threats from illegal logging, mining, and land encroachment.

  • Megalithic Hat Stones unearthed in Nagaparamba

    megalithic

    Central Idea

    • Recent archaeological excavations in Tirunaya near Nagaparamba (Kerala) have brought to light a collection of hemispherical laterite stones known as hat stones or Thoppikkallu in Malayalam.

    Nagaparamba Megalithic Treasure

    • Thoppikkallu: Hat stones, referred to as Thoppikkallu in Malayalam, served as lids for burial urns during the megalithic era, offering a unique glimpse into burial practices.
    • Cultural Insights: The discoveries may provide valuable insights into the life and culture of the ancient inhabitants of the area, dating back more than 2,000 years.

    Unraveling the Mystery of Megaliths

    • Megalithic Structures: Megaliths were constructed as either burial sites or commemorative memorials, creating a distinctive landscape of archaeological significance.
    • Burial Remains: Examples of burial megaliths include dolmenoid cists, cairn circles, and capstones, each with its unique design and purpose.
    • Non-Sepulchral Megaliths: Non-burial megaliths, such as menhirs, hold a different purpose and significance.
    • Historical Context: The majority of Indian megaliths are attributed to the Iron Age, spanning from 1500 BC to 500 BC.
    • Regional Concentration: These intriguing structures are concentrated in states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.

  • Kashmir Issue: Why India went to the UN

    kashmir un

    Central Idea

    • The intricate tale of Kashmir’s “special status” has been a source of enduring conflict and turmoil within India and its neighbouring Pakistan.
    • Unravelling the events that led to rolling in of the UN in the Kashmir dispute, requires delving into verified historical facts.

    Kashmir: Birth of a Princely State

    • Origins: The princely state of Jammu and Kashmir emerged in 1846 when the British sold Kashmir to Gulab Singh, the Dogra jagirdar of Jammu, after the first Anglo-Sikh War.
    • Hari Singh’s Heritage: Maharaja Hari Singh, the ruler during India’s independence, was Gulab Singh’s descendant and envisioned an independent and neutral Kashmir.

    Dilemma of Accession

    • Independence Aspiration: Hari Singh aspired for Kashmir’s independence post-British rule, with a vision of a “Switzerland of the East.”
    • Viceroy’s Visit: Viceroy Lord Louis Mountbatten suggested Hari Singh’s accession to either India or Pakistan, but the state wanted to remain independent.
    • Gurdaspur’s Significance: The Radcliffe Boundary Commission’s decision on Gurdaspur was pivotal. The district’s inclusion in India secured a practical route for Kashmir’s potential accession.

    The Turning Point

    • Infiltration and Conflict: Infiltrators crossed over from Pakistan in October 1947, advancing swiftly. The identity of the infiltrators and their motivation remains disputed between India and Pakistan.
    • Pakistani Motivation: Pakistan claims the raiders acted independently, avenging atrocities against Muslims in India, while India asserts their involvement was orchestrated.
    • Jinnah’s Knowledge: Opinions diverge on whether Jinnah was informed about the infiltrators’ plan, with conflicting accounts of his awareness.

    Imperative of Accession

    • Hari Singh’s Request: Hari Singh requested military aid from India in response to the infiltrations, leading to India’s intervention.
    • Instrument of Accession: VP Menon brought the Instrument of Accession from Hari Singh, formalizing the state’s accession to India.

    Plebiscite and the UN Involvement

    • Mountbatten’s Stance: Mountbatten’s recommendation to involve the UN stemmed from his pessimism about bilateral negotiations between India and Pakistan.
    • UN Involvement: India took the Kashmir issue to the UN in 1948, seeking intervention to resolve the conflict. The framing of the issue as the “India-Pakistan question” was seen as a symbolic defeat for India.
    • Stance of World Powers: US and UK’s inclination toward Pakistan, in part due to geopolitical considerations, influenced the UN’s approach to the issue.

    Why did India go to the UN?

    • International Attention: India sought global attention and legitimacy by involving the UN in the Kashmir conflict.
    • Bilateral Stalemate: Unsuccessful bilateral negotiations pushed India to explore UN mediation.
    • Mountbatten’s Advice: Lord Mountbatten’s pessimism about the India-Pakistan agreement led to UN recommendation.
    • Symbolic Significance: Framing the issue at the UN highlighted its international nature.
    • Legitimacy and Process: UN involvement provided a structured platform for presenting arguments.
    • Conflict Avoidance: UN mediation aimed to prevent further conflict escalation in the region.

    Post-UN Scenario

    • Plebiscite Debate: India and Pakistan both agreed on the need for a plebiscite, but differing circumstances delayed its execution.
    • India’s Hardened Stand: As Pakistan aligned with the US, Nehru’s stance against a plebiscite intensified, fearing bias due to Sheikh Abdullah’s inclination towards India.
    • Integration with India: Jammu and Kashmir participated in India’s democratic processes, and Article 370, granting the region “special status,” was incorporated into the Indian Constitution.

    Conclusion

    • The complex history of Kashmir’s “special status” remains a subject of fervent debate, with deeply entrenched narratives on both sides.
    • It is within this intricate framework that the ongoing discussions and negotiations surrounding Kashmir’s future continue to unfold.

  • Hurricane Hilary’s rare journey towards West Coast

    hilary

    Central Idea

    • Hurricane Hilary’s unexpected trajectory towards Southern California and Mexico has caught meteorologists and residents off guard.
    • The only recorded instance of a tropical storm with hurricane-force winds hitting Southern California dates back to 1858, impacting San Diego.

    What is a Hurricane?

    • A hurricane, also known as a tropical cyclone or typhoon in different regions, is a powerful and intense tropical storm characterized by strong winds, heavy rainfall, and low atmospheric pressure.
    • Here are the key features and characteristics of a hurricane:
    1. Formation: Hurricanes typically form over warm ocean waters, where the sea surface temperature is at least 26.5 degrees Celsius (about 80 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher. Warm ocean water provides the energy needed to fuel the storm’s growth.
    2. Energy Source: Hurricanes derive their energy from the heat released when moist air rises and condenses into clouds and rain. This process, known as latent heat release, powers the storm and leads to the development of strong winds.
    3. Eye: At the center of a hurricane is a relatively calm and clear area known as the “eye.” The eye is surrounded by a circular band of intense thunderstorms called the “eyewall,” where the strongest winds and heaviest rainfall occur.
    4. Wind Speeds: Hurricanes are characterized by extremely strong winds that can reach speeds of over 74 miles per hour (119 kilometres per hour) for a storm to be classified as a hurricane. Major hurricanes can have wind speeds exceeding 111 miles per hour (179 kilometers per hour).
    5. Categories: Hurricanes are categorized based on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, which ranges from Category 1 (weakest) to Category 5 (strongest). Category 1 hurricanes have sustained winds of 74-95 mph, while Category 5 hurricanes have winds greater than 157 mph.

    About Hurricane Hilary

    • Unlike hurricane-prone states on the Gulf of Mexico, California and Mexico’s west coast lack experience in dealing with such events.
    • Hurricane Hilary’s expected landfall in the Baja peninsula of Mexico poses risks of landslides, flooding, and extensive damage due to the region’s geographical features and population density.

    Factors behind its intensification

    • Ocean Temperature Factor: Hurricanes require ocean waters above 26 degrees Celsius to form. The west coast’s colder waters are less conducive to hurricane formation.
    • Vertical Wind Shear: Strong upper-level winds can disrupt hurricanes’ structure and prevent their formation. West coast’s stronger wind shear reduces the likelihood of hurricanes.
    • Trade Wind Influence: Trade winds, which steer hurricanes, play a pivotal role in directing them toward the east coast while diverting them away from the west coast.
    • Westward Trajectory: Hurricanes originating in the eastern Pacific tend to move west-northwest, taking them away from the west coast and out to sea.

    Climate Change induced factors

    • Climate Change Impact: Climate change leads to more frequent and intense hurricanes. Rising ocean temperatures due to greenhouse gas emissions contribute to increased hurricane intensity.
    • Ocean Heat Absorption: Oceans have absorbed 90% of excess heat from greenhouse gas emissions, leading to higher sea surface temperatures and stronger hurricanes.
    • Marine Heat Waves: Elevated sea surface temperatures result in marine heat waves, intensifying storm systems and amplifying their impact on land.
    • El Nino’s Role: El Niño, an abnormal warming of equatorial Pacific Ocean waters, can weaken wind shear in the eastern Pacific, creating conditions conducive to hurricane formation.

  • India’s Remarkable fight against Poverty

    What’s the news?

    • On the 77th Independence Day of our nation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the historic Red Fort in Delhi, heralding a remarkable achievement in the fight against poverty.

    Central idea

    • The Prime Minister’s announcement highlighted the lifting of 135 million people from poverty in five years, as confirmed by the MDPI from NITI Aayog. This aligns with UNDP’s estimate of 415 million lifted out of poverty between 2005–06 to 2019–21, a commendable milestone in India’s history.

    Remarkable Achievements in the Fight Against Poverty

    • 135 Million Uplifted: Between 2015-16 and 2019-21, 135 million people were lifted out of poverty.
    • 415 Million Escaped Poverty: From 2005–06 to 2019–21, India lifted 415 million people out of poverty (MDPI).
    • Extreme Poverty Reduced: Extreme poverty decreased from over 80% to around 15% based on the MDPI.
    • Leading Rice Exporter: Successful policies resulted in India becoming the largest exporter of rice.
    • Top Producer of Milk and Cotton: India emerged as the largest producer of milk (222 MT) and cotton (39 million bales).
    • Infant Mortality Decreased: Infant mortality decreased significantly from 57% in 2005–06 to 35% in 2019–21.

    Factors Behind This Achievement

    • Economic Policy Transition (1991): The shift to a market-oriented economy in 1991 generated substantial resources for poverty reduction.
    • Strategic Government Initiatives: Targeted policies like the PM Garib Kalyan Yojana directly impact poverty reduction by providing essential commodities.
    • Education and Skill Development: Prioritizing education and skill enhancement empowers individuals, grants access to improved livelihood opportunities, and contributes to child nutrition.
    • Agricultural Reforms (Green Revolution): Innovations like the Green Revolution augmented rural incomes, lifting communities out of poverty by enhancing agricultural productivity.
    • Women’s Empowerment: Focusing on women’s education and participation correlates with positive effects on family welfare and economic growth, as exemplified by proposals to train women in self-help groups for drone operation.
    • Technological Advancements: Technological breakthroughs have streamlined service delivery, as seen in the provision of commodities through the PM Garib Kalyan Yojana and enhanced agricultural productivity via the gene revolution in cotton.
    • Global Integration: Embracing globalization and trade expanded economic horizons, fostering growth, job creation, and effective poverty reduction.
    • Resilience and Adaptability: Society’s adaptability to changing economic conditions bolstered resilience against poverty, preventing further economic deterioration.
    • Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborations between the government and the private sector magnified poverty reduction efforts, as evident from Punjab Agricultural University’s role in the Green Revolution.
    • Civil Society Participation: Non-governmental organizations and civil society groups complemented government initiatives, actively contributing to poverty alleviation and service delivery.
    • Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing data to identify poverty pockets and target interventions precisely enhances the efficacy of poverty reduction strategies.
    • Foreign Exchange Reserves: India’s growth in foreign exchange reserves from $1.4 billion in July 1991 to approximately $600 billion bolstered the economy against external shocks, enhancing its ability to sustain poverty alleviation efforts.

    Challenges and Concerns

    • Child malnutrition: Despite progress, 32% of children are underweight and 35% are stunted, according to the NFHS-5.
    • Climate Change Impact: Increasing extreme weather events due to climate change pose a threat to food security and poverty alleviation.
    • Gender Gap in the Labor Force: Women’s participation rate in the labor force remains low at around 30% (2021–22).
    • Quality Education Gap: Ensuring quality education and skill formation for women beyond the 12th grade is a challenge.
    • Access to Nutritious Food: Ensuring equitable access to nutritious food, especially for vulnerable populations, is a challenge.

    Way Forward: A Blueprint for Transformation

    • Education Empowerment: Strengthen education programs beyond the 12th grade, providing quality education and skill formation for women to enhance their contribution to poverty reduction.
    • Enhanced Gender Participation: Implement measures to boost women’s participation in the labor force, aiming to bridge the gender gap and empower women economically.
    • Climate-Resilient Agriculture: Prioritize sustainable agricultural practices that address climate change challenges, ensuring food security and rural income stability.
    • Nutrition Interventions: Develop targeted interventions to address child malnutrition, focusing on reducing underweight and stunting rates among children under five.
    • Data-Driven Approach: Continuously utilize accurate and comprehensive data to inform policy decisions, ensuring effective poverty alleviation strategies.

    Conclusion

    • India’s remarkable poverty alleviation journey reflects recent unparalleled progress. Leveraging inclusive growth, women’s education, and agricultural innovation can drive lasting transformation. Safeguarding against climate change and enhancing food systems can pave the way for a prosperous and equitable future.

     

  • Madan Lal Dhingra and his Contributions

    madanlal dhingra madan lal

    Central Idea

    • On the 114th anniversary of his execution, a memorial is being formally inaugurated in honour of Madan Lal Dhingra.

    Who was Madan Lal Dhingra?

    • Early Life: Born on September 18, 1883, in an affluent family in Amritsar, Dhingra’s father was a staunch British loyalist, working as a chief medical officer.
    • Shift towards Nationalism: Dhingra’s exposure to the nationalist movement in Lahore during his studies ignited his patriotism.
    • Socio-Economic Concerns: Driven by a sense of justice and concern for India’s impoverished masses, Dhingra’s patriotism extended to socio-economic issues.
    • Expulsion and Resilience: Expelled from college for protesting against the use of British-imported cloth, Dhingra’s defiance marked his commitment to the cause.

    Involvement in Revolutionary Circles

    • Contact with Leaders: Dhingra connected with prominent figures like Vinayak Damodar Savarkar and Shyamji Krishna Varma, active in London’s revolutionary circles.
    • India House: Dhingra frequented India House, a hub for revolutionary Indian nationalism founded by Shyamji Krishna Varma, further igniting his revolutionary spirit.
    • Abhinav Bharat Mandal: Dhingra joined Abhinav Bharat Mandal founded by Vinayak Savarkar, where he refined his plan to assassinate Curzon Wyllie.

    Assassination of Curzon Wyllie

    • Curzon Wyllie’s Profile: Curzon Wyllie was a British Indian officer and intelligence officer known for collecting information on revolutionaries.
    • The Assassination: On July 1, 1909, Dhingra attended an event where Curzon Wyllie was present. Dhingra fired five shots, fatally hitting both Curzon Wyllie and a doctor who tried to intervene.
    • Dhingra’s Justification: During his trial, Dhingra argued that if fighting Germans was patriotic for an Englishman, fighting the British was even more justifiable for him.

    Legacy and Memorial

    • Execution and Burial: Dhingra was found guilty, executed on August 17, 1909, and buried in London. His remains were brought to India in 1976.
    • Struggle for a Memorial: A memorial in Dhingra’s name has been a long-standing demand. The efforts culminated in the formal inauguration of the memorial on the 114th anniversary of his execution.
    • Memorial Inauguration: The memorial was inaugurated by Governor Banwari Lal Purohit on August 17, 2023, in Amritsar’s Golbagh area.
    • Memorial’s Significance: The memorial stands as a tribute to Dhingra’s sacrifice and his role in the fight for India’s freedom.