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GS Paper: GS3

  • The science is clear, crowd disasters are preventable

    Why in the News?

    This week in India, a tragic crowd crush at the Maha Kumbh claimed the lives of 30 people.

    What scientific evidence supports the prevention of crowd disasters?

    • Crowd Density Studies: Research indicates that crowd crushes become dangerous at densities of five persons per square meter, with serious risks emerging at seven persons per square meter or more. This evidence underscores the need for effective crowd management to prevent dangerous overcrowding.
    • Predictability of Crowd Behavior: Scientific studies have shown that crowd dynamics can be predicted and managed. By understanding how crowds behave in different environments, planners can implement strategies to avoid conditions that lead to crushes.
    • Historical Data on Past Incidents: Analysis of previous crowd disasters reveals common factors leading to fatalities, such as inadequate space and poor crowd control measures. Lessons learned from these incidents can inform better practices for future events.

    How can effective crowd management practices be implemented at large events?

    • Strategic Planning: Event organizers should create a comprehensive plan that includes crowd flow evaluation, risk assessment, and clearly marked exits and entrances. This planning should involve local officials to ensure safety measures are adequate.
    • Staggered Entry and Exit Times: To reduce peak crowd density, organizers can stagger arrival and departure times for attendees, allowing for a more manageable flow of people into and out of the venue.
    • Use of Barriers: Implementing physical barriers can help segment crowds into smaller groups, reducing the likelihood of dangerous surges. Barriers should be designed to allow for emergency exits if needed.
    • Crowd Monitoring Systems: Utilizing technology for real-time monitoring of crowd density and behaviour can help event staff respond quickly to potential dangers. Mass notification systems can alert staff about growing concerns, enabling timely interventions.
    • Staff Training and Communication: Ensuring that all staff and security personnel are trained in crowd management techniques is essential. Clear communication protocols should be established to relay information quickly during an event.

    What role do policies and regulations play in enhancing crowd safety?

    • Mandatory Safety Regulations: Governments should introduce regulations requiring event organizers to adhere to safety standards that limit crowd density and ensure adequate emergency planning. Such policies can hold organizers accountable for crowd safety.
    • Economic Incentives for Compliance: While event organizers often prioritize profit over safety, regulations can create incentives for them to implement safer practices, such as limiting ticket sales based on venue capacity.
    • Post-Incident Reviews and Accountability: Establishing a framework for reviewing crowd disasters can lead to improved regulations and practices in the future. Accountability measures can encourage compliance with safety standards among event planners and local authorities.
    • Public Awareness Campaigns: Governments can promote awareness about crowd safety among the public, educating attendees on how to behave in crowded situations and the importance of following safety protocols during events.

    What are the steps taken by the government?

    • National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Guidelines: The NDMA has formulated guidelines to ensure safe crowd management during mass gatherings. These guidelines include regulating traffic, using barricades, and ensuring adequate police presence to manage crowds effectively.
    • Capacity Evaluation: Before hosting large events, there is a requirement for proper evaluation of the venue’s capacity. This ensures that the infrastructure can handle the expected crowd size without leading to dangerous overcrowding.
    • Use of Technology: The government encourages the deployment of advanced technologies such as CCTV surveillance, drones for aerial monitoring, and public address systems to enhance crowd management and safety.
    • Traffic Management: Effective traffic management strategies are implemented, including displaying route maps, managing unauthorized parking, and controlling pedestrian flow around event venues to prevent bottlenecks.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Regulatory Framework – Governments should enforce stricter crowd safety regulations, mandating capacity limits, emergency preparedness, and real-time crowd monitoring for all large events.
    • Enhance Technological Integration – Deploy AI-based crowd analytics, drone surveillance, and real-time alert systems to monitor crowd density and movement. Training event staff in using these technologies will improve response times and prevent disasters.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Discuss the recent measures initiated in disaster management by the Government of India departing from the earlier reactive approach. (UPSC IAS/2020)

    Q How important are vulnerability and risk assessment for pre-disaster management? As an administrator, what are key areas that you would focus on in a Disaster Management System? (UPSC IAS/ 2013)

  • India approves Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSME manufacturers

    Why in the News?

    The government approved a Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme  (MCGS)  for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

    What is MCGS-MSME?

    • The Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSMEs (MCGS-MSME) is a government initiative aimed at enhancing financial accessibility for micro, small, and medium enterprises in India.

    What are the Provisions and Salient Features of MCGS-MSME?

    • Eligibility and Loan Coverage: The MCGS-MSME is available to MSMEs with a valid Udyam Registration Number, providing loan guarantees of up to Rs 100 crore for purchasing equipment and machinery.
    • Guarantee Coverage: The scheme offers 60% guarantee coverage by the National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Limited (NCGTC) for loans sanctioned to Member Lending Institutions (MLIs).
    • Project Cost Requirements: While the guaranteed loan amount is capped at Rs 100 crore, the total project cost can exceed this amount, provided that at least 75% of the project cost is allocated for equipment or machinery.
    • Repayment Terms: Loans up to Rs 50 crore have a repayment period of up to 8 years, including a moratorium of up to 2 years on principal repayments. For loans above Rs 50 crore, longer repayment schedules may be considered.
    • Scheme Duration and Fees: The MCGS-MSME will be in effect for four years from the issuance of operational guidelines or until cumulative guarantees of Rs 7 lakh crore are issued. The initial guarantee fee is waived for the first year, followed by a fee of 1.5% per annum for the next three years, and then reduced to 1% per annum thereafter.

    What are the other steps taken to ease access to Credit for MSMEs?

    In addition to the MCGS-MSME, several other measures have been implemented to facilitate easier access to credit for MSMEs:

    • Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE): This scheme provides collateral-free loans up to Rs 2 crore, offering up to 85% guarantee coverage, thereby reducing lender risk.
    • Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Program: This initiative involves an investment of Rs 6,000 crore over five years, aimed at enhancing MSME growth and performance.
    • Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS): An online platform that enables MSMEs to receive faster payments from larger companies, improving cash flow and liquidity.
    • Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS): Introduced during COVID-19, this scheme provided a Rs 3 lakh crore relief package, offering a 100% government-backed guarantee for loans.
    • Priority Sector Lending (PSL) Norms: These regulations require banks to allocate a portion of their loans specifically for MSMEs, ensuring that they receive necessary financial support.

    What are the challenges faced by MSMEs in accessing finance?

    • Access to Finance: One of the most significant challenges faced by MSMEs is obtaining timely and affordable financing. For example, The Bank of Baroda reported that over 50% of MSMEs in India could not access formal credit.
    • Lack of Financial Knowledge: Many MSMEs lack awareness of available financial schemes and products, which restricts their ability to access funding. For example, Many business owners remain unaware of the Shishu, Kishor, and Tarun loan schemes.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhanced Financial Literacy and Awareness Campaigns: There is a need for targeted outreach programs to educate MSMEs about available financial schemes, including loan products and government initiatives like Shishu, Kishor, and Tarun schemes, to ensure they are aware and can leverage them effectively.
    • Streamlined Loan Processes and Collateral-Free Options: Simplifying the loan application process and expanding collateral-free loan schemes like CGTMSE, along with improving credit rating systems, will ensure quicker and easier access to funds, especially for smaller MSMEs.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q  Can the strategy of regional-resource-based manufacturing help in promoting employment in India? (UPSC IAS/2019)

  • MoEFCC approves Reconstruction of Teesta Dam despite Safety Concerns

    Why in the News?

    The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has approved the reconstruction of the Teesta-III Dam, which was destroyed by a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in October 2023.

    About Teesta River

    • The Teesta River is a transboundary river flowing through India and Bangladesh.
    • Originates from Tso Lhamo Lake, Sikkim, at 5,330 meters in the Himalayas.
    • Major tributary of the Brahmaputra River (Jamuna in Bangladesh).
    • Vital for irrigation, hydroelectric power, and water supply in Sikkim, West Bengal, and Bangladesh.
    • The Teesta Water Dispute remains unresolved, with Bangladesh seeking an equitable share of water.

    Geographical Features:

    • Length: 414 km (309 km in India, 105 km in Bangladesh).
    • Basin Area: 12,159 sq. km in Sikkim and North Bengal.
    • Originates in North Sikkim → flows through West Bengal → enters Bangladesh before merging with the Brahmaputra River.
    • Passes through major towns like Mangan, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, and Rangpo.
    • Tributaries:
      • Left-bank: Rangit, Relli, Great Rangit.
      • Right-bank: Lachung, Lachen, Talung.
    • It supports Himalayan biodiversity, crucial for tea plantations and terrace farming.

    Conservation Initiatives:

    • National River Conservation Plan (NRCP): Includes efforts to reduce pollution and improve water quality of the Teesta.
    • Teesta Barrage Project (West Bengal): Aimed at irrigation development and hydroelectric power generation in North Bengal.
    • Hydroelectric Projects in Sikkim: Several Teesta Hydropower Projects (Teesta Stage III, IV, V, VI, etc.) have been established to generate renewable energy while ensuring minimum ecological impact.
    • India-Bangladesh Water Sharing Talks: Ongoing diplomatic negotiations to resolve the Teesta water-sharing dispute, ensuring equitable distribution.
    • Catchment Area Treatment (CAT) Plan: Implemented to prevent soil erosion and siltation, protecting river health.
    PYQ:

    [2017] With reference to river Teesta, consider the following statements:

    1. The source of river Teesta is the same as that of Brahmaputra but it flows through Sikkim.

    2. River Rangeet originates in Sikkim and it is a tributary of river Teesta.

    3. River Teesta falls into Bay of Bengal at the border of India and Bangladesh.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 3 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Asteroid Bennu Samples hold Secrets of Life’s Origins

    Why in the News?

    NASA’s OSIRIS-REx (Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, Security–Regolith Explorer) mission has delivered samples from asteroid Bennu, revealing amino acids, nucleobases, and signs of ancient saltwater, key components in the origins of life.

    Key Findings of the Study:

    • 14 out of 20 amino acids essential for proteins on Earth were found.
    • All five nucleo-bases used in DNA and RNA were detected, indicating prebiotic chemistry beyond Earth.
    • Ammonia & Formaldehyde compounds can react under suitable conditions to form complex organic molecules.
    • It thus supports the idea that asteroids delivered key building blocks for life to early Earth.
    • Calcite, halite, sylvite, and trona were found, indicating prolonged exposure to liquid water.
    • Similar briny conditions have been observed on Ceres and Enceladus, suggesting the solar system had widespread environments suitable for organic chemistry.
    • Life on Earth exclusively uses left-handed amino acids, but Bennu samples show an equal mix, raising questions about why life evolved with this preference.

    About Asteroid Bennu  

    • Asteroid Bennu is a carbon-rich asteroid that orbits between Earth and Mars.
    • It is believed to be a primitive remnant of the early solar system, holding clues to the origins of life.
    • The asteroid is porous, with up to 60% empty space, affecting its collision potential with Earth in the distant future.
    • It periodically ejects material, classifying it as an active asteroid.
    • OSIRIS-REx was NASA’s first asteroid sample-return mission, launched in 2016 to study and collect material from Bennu’s surface.
      • The spacecraft arrived at Bennu in 2018, mapped its surface for two years, and collected samples in 2020.
      • It successfully returned the material to Earth in 2023.
    • The mission aimed to analyze Bennu’s composition, understand its water history, and study the organic molecules that may have played a role in the origin of life.

    Significance of the Study:

    • It strengthens the theory that asteroids contributed to life’s origins by delivering organic molecules and water to early Earth.
    • It confirms that essential ingredients for life were widespread in the early solar system, increasing the possibility of life beyond Earth.
    • It helps refine planetary defense strategies, as Bennu has a small chance of impacting Earth in the future.

    PYQ:

    [2011] What is the difference between asteroids and comets?

    1. Asteroids are small rocky planetoids, while comets are formed of frozen gases held together by rocky and metallic material.
    2. Asteroids are found mostly between the orbits of Jupiter and Mars, while comets are found mostly between Venus and Mercury.
    3. Comets show a perceptible glowing tail, while asteroids do not.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

  • How can the Budget arrest growth decline?

    Why in the News?

    The growth rate is lower than what the government had expected. Looking at past trends, the 2004-2011 period had high growth and poverty reduction, supported by welfare programs and government interventions.

    Context: 

    • The World Bank forecasts India’s GDP growth to soften to 6.5% for the fiscal year 2024-25, down from previous expectations of 7%. This reflects a slowdown in investment and weak manufacturing growth.
    • The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has also revised its growth forecast for India to 7% for FY24 and 6.5% for FY25, citing robust domestic demand but acknowledging challenges ahead

    How did the period from 2004 to 2011 have a consistently high growth rate?

    • State Intervention and Welfare Programs: This period saw a revival of state interventions through rights-based legislation and welfare schemes, which contributed to economic growth and reduced absolute poverty.
      • Notably, programs like the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) provided jobs and set higher wage floors, benefiting the rural poor.
    • Rising Consumption Among Lower Income Groups: Despite increasing income inequality, the consumption share of the bottom 80% of the population grew faster than that of the richest 20%. This was facilitated by targeted fiscal policies that favoured lower-income groups, enhancing their consumption capacity.

    • Increased Fiscal Expenditure on Social Services: There was a significant rise in social services and developmental expenditures during this time, which directly impacted consumption patterns positively across various commodity categories for lower-income groups.

    Does the nature of fiscal expenditure also matter when it comes to private consumption? 

    • Capital Expenditure vs. Revenue Expenditure:
      • Capital Expenditure (Capex) (e.g., infrastructure projects) primarily benefits high-income groups and corporations, with a lower short-term impact on consumption.
      • Revenue Expenditure (e.g., social welfare, wages, and pensions) immediately boosts demand by increasing disposable income among lower-income groups.
    • Leakages in Capex: Large-scale projects often involve imports (e.g., heavy machinery), leading to capital outflows instead of stimulating the domestic economy.
    • Higher Consumption Propensity of Lower-Income Groups: Money spent on welfare programs reaches people with a higher tendency to spend, leading to a larger multiplier effect on domestic demand.

    How would an increase in revenue expenditure, particularly in the social sector, help? (Way forward)

    • Higher Incomes for Workers: By providing better wages and job opportunities through social programs, disposable income among lower-income populations would rise, thereby boosting overall consumption levels.
    • Stimulating Private Investment: Enhanced consumer demand can create a conducive environment for businesses to invest. As workers have more income to spend, businesses may respond by increasing production capacity, leading to a cycle of investment and growth.
    • Reversing Economic Slowdown: A strategic shift towards increasing revenue expenditure can help combat the current economic slowdown by fostering a more inclusive growth model that benefits a broader segment of society.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q “Industrial growth rate has lagged behind in the overall growth of Gross-Domestic-Product (GDP) in the post-reform period” Give reasons. How far the recent changes in Industrial Policy are capable of increasing the industrial growth rate? (UPSC IAS/2015)

  • ISRO’s 100th launch: why this is significant?

    Why in the News?

    In its first launch of 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation achieved the milestone of 100 launches.

    What does the 100th launch signify for India’s space capabilities?

    The 100th launch underscores ISRO’s growth since its establishment in 1969, showcasing its evolution into a reliable launch partner for both domestic and international satellites. 

    • Technological Advancement: This launch utilized an indigenous cryogenic engine, highlighting India’s advancements in rocket technology. The GSLV series has been instrumental in increasing payload capacity and efficiency during satellite launches, contributing to ISRO’s reputation as a formidable player in the global space arena.
    • Contribution to Navigation Systems: The NVS-02 satellite is part of India’s Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) system, which enhances India’s capabilities in terrestrial, aerial, and maritime navigation.
      • This satellite will replace the IRNSS-1E satellite and improve the accuracy and reliability of navigation services across India and surrounding regions.

    What are the future plans for ISRO following this milestone?

    • Ambitious Missions: Following this milestone, ISRO aims to undertake several high-profile missions, including a sample return mission from the Moon, a mission to Venus, and the establishment of an Indian space station. These initiatives are part of ISRO’s broader goal to expand its capabilities and presence in space exploration.
    • Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV): ISRO is developing a heavier rocket called the NGLV, which will be capable of carrying up to 30,000 kg to low Earth orbit. This vehicle will feature a reusable first stage to enhance cost-effectiveness in launches.
    • Expansion of Infrastructure: Plans are underway to build a third launch pad at Sriharikota to accommodate increased launch frequency and support human spaceflight missions alongside commercial launches.

    How will private sector involvement shape ISRO’s future missions?

    • Collaboration and Innovation: The PSLV-C60 mission exemplified successful collaboration between ISRO and private startups, allowing non-government entities to deploy payloads for in-orbit experiments.
      • This initiative fosters innovation by enabling startups to test their technologies using ISRO’s infrastructure, thereby reducing costs and encouraging diverse contributions to India’s space capabilities.
    • Transitioning Operational Responsibilities: ISRO aims to transfer more operational tasks to private companies, allowing them to manage activities traditionally handled by the agency.
      • This shift is intended to increase efficiency and scalability within the space sector, empowering private entities to take on significant roles in satellite launches and other space activities, thus expanding India’s overall capabilities.
    • Commercialization of Space Activities: The government has focused on increasing India’s share of the global space economy from 2% to 10% over the next decade through public-private partnerships.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthening Public-Private Synergy: ISRO should continue fostering collaboration with private players by expanding access to launch infrastructure, streamlining regulatory frameworks, and incentivizing innovation through initiatives like IN-SPACe and NSIL.
    • Focus on Heavy-Lift and Reusability: Prioritizing the development of the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) with reusable technology will enhance cost-effectiveness, positioning India as a competitive player in the global commercial space sector.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q India has achieved remarkable successes in unmanned space missions including the Chandrayaan and Mars Orbiter Mission, but has not ventured into manned space mission. What are the main obstacles to launching a manned space mission, both in terms of technology and logistics? Examine critically. (UPSC IAS/2017)

  • Only a radical policy shift can lift farmers from widespread distress

    Why in the News?

    Agriculture has been given little attention, even though the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data shows that 1,00,474 farmers and agricultural workers took their own lives between 2015 and 2022.

    What are the root causes of the current agrarian distress faced by farmers in India?

    • Unmet Minimum Support Price (MSP) Promise: Despite repeated promises, the government has failed to implement the MSP at the rate of C2+50% (one-and-a-half times the comprehensive cost of production) as recommended by the M.S. Swaminathan Commission.
    • Rising Input Costs and Economic Burden: The cost of agricultural inputs such as fertilizers, seeds, insecticides, diesel, water, and electricity has been steadily rising.
    • Inadequate Government Support and Infrastructure: Government allocations to agriculture and allied sectors have been declining, from 5.44% of the total budget in 2019 to just 3.15% in 2024.
      • At the same time, public investment in irrigation and power infrastructure has decreased, leading to water scarcity and unreliable electricity supply.

    How can policy reforms effectively address the challenges faced by farmers?

    • Implementation of MSP: Establishing a statutory MSP at C2+50% is essential to ensure that farmers receive fair compensation for their produce. This reform would help alleviate financial distress and reduce the incidence of farm suicides.
    • Subsidy Increases and Cost Controls: The government should raise subsidies for agricultural inputs and impose strict controls on prices charged by private corporations for fertilizers and seeds. Supporting public sector production can help stabilize prices and ensure availability.
    • Comprehensive Loan Waiver: A one-time loan waiver for farmers can provide immediate relief from debt burdens. This measure should be coupled with long-term strategies to prevent future indebtedness through better financial management and support systems.

    What role do government support and institutional frameworks play in alleviating farmer distress?

    • Financial Assistance and Subsidies: Government support through subsidies for fertilizers, seeds, and irrigation systems helps reduce the financial burden on farmers. For example, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) provides direct income support to farmers, aiding those facing economic hardship.
    • Crop Insurance and Risk Mitigation: Institutional frameworks such as the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) offer insurance schemes to protect farmers against crop losses due to natural disasters, thereby reducing the risk of distress when unforeseen events occur.
    • Market Access and Price Support: The government ensures fair prices and stable markets through Minimum Support Price (MSP) and procurement schemes. The Food Corporation of India (FCI) buys surplus crops like wheat and rice from farmers at MSP, offering a safety net during market fluctuations.
    • Agricultural Credit and Loans: Institutional frameworks like the NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development) and other banks offer affordable loans to farmers, allowing them to invest in better farming techniques or recover from losses, thus mitigating financial stress.
      • For example, Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) provide short-term credit to meet the farmers’ needs for inputs and daily expenses.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Infrastructure and Support Systems: Invest in reliable irrigation, power supply, and crop insurance schemes, ensuring farmers have access to resources that help them cope with climate-related challenges and reduce dependency on private traders.
    • Enhance Financial Accessibility and Risk Management: Expand access to affordable credit, implement statutory MSP at C2+50%, and provide better financial literacy programs to help farmers manage debts and reduce vulnerability to market fluctuations.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Explain various types of revolutions, took place in Agriculture after Independence in India. How these revolutions have helped in poverty alleviation and food security in India? (UPSC IAS/2017) 

  • [pib] DGFT launches enhanced eCoO 2.0 System

    Why in the News?

    The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has launched the enhanced Certificate of Origin (eCoO) 2.0 system, a major upgrade aimed at simplifying export certification and improving trade efficiency.

    What is eCoO 2.0 System?

    • The eCoO 2.0 system is a digital platform launched by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) to simplify and streamline the issuance of Non-Preferential Certificates of Origin (CoO).
    • Effective January 1, 2025, exporters must electronically file CoO applications through this platform.
    • It aligns with India’s Ease of Doing Business initiative by improving trade facilitation, digital authentication, and document processing.

    Key Features of the eCoO 2.0 System

    • Exporters must submit Non-Preferential Certificates of Origin (CoO) online.
    • Allows exporters to authorize multiple users under a single Importer Exporter Code (IEC).
    • Aadhaar-based e-Signing provides an alternative to Digital Signature Tokens, enhancing security and ease of use.
    • Offers real-time access to eCoO services, Free Trade Agreement (FTA) details, trade events, and notifications.
    • Exporters can request In-lieu CoO for rectifications on previously issued CoOs.
    • The system handles 7,000+ eCoOs daily, integrating 125 issuing agencies, 110 chambers of commerce, and 650+ issuing officers.

    Significance of the eCoO 2.0 System

    • Reduces manual paperwork and speeds up export documentation.
    • Digitally signed CoOs prevent fraudulent certifications and ensure traceability.
    • Facilitates smoother re-exports, trans-shipments, and intermediary trade, boosting India’s position in global supply chains.
    • Faster approvals help exporters comply with international trade agreements, enhancing competitiveness.
    • Aligns with India’s push for paperless trade, reinforcing DGFT’s trade facilitation efforts.

    PYQ:

    [2011]  A “closed economy” is an economy in which:

    (a) the money supply is fully controlled

    (b) deficit financing takes place

    (c) only exports take place

    (d) neither exports or imports take place

  • Why Greenland’s crystal blue lakes have turned brown?

    Why in the News?

    A new study has revealed that over 7,500 lakes in western Greenland have turned brown, suffered water quality deterioration, and started emitting carbon due to extreme weather events in 2022.

    About Greenland and Its Lakes

    • Greenland, the world’s largest island, is covered by a massive ice sheet that holds nearly 8% of the world’s freshwater.
    • The island is home to thousands of glacial-fed lakes, which are crystal blue due to their pristine water quality and low organic content.
    • These lakes play a crucial role in providing drinking water, supporting biodiversity, and storing atmospheric carbon by acting as natural carbon sinks.

    What are the reasons?

    • Extreme Weather in 2022: Greenland saw record-breaking heatwaves and heavy rainfall instead of the usual snowfall.
    • Permafrost Thawing: Rising temperatures melted permafrost, releasing large amounts of organic carbon, iron, and other minerals into the lakes.
    • Atmospheric Rivers: These long, narrow streams of water vapor in the sky caused intense precipitation, leading to large-scale runoff of organic material and sediments into the lakes.
    • Loss of Light Penetration: Increased sedimentation turned the lakes murky brown, reducing sunlight penetration and affecting phytoplankton, which play a key role in carbon absorption.

    Why this Study is important?

    • The study found that changes in the lakes occurred within months instead of centuries, signaling an unprecedented climate impact.
    • Once natural carbon absorbers, the lakes are now releasing 350% more carbon dioxide, accelerating global warming.
    • The lakes, which supply drinking water, now contain higher levels of organic pollutants, affecting both humans and aquatic ecosystems.
    • Studies suggest atmospheric rivers will become 50–290% more frequent by the end of the century, leading to widespread changes in other freshwater ecosystems worldwide.
    • The study adds to growing evidence that Earth’s natural carbon sinks are failing, posing a major challenge to climate mitigation efforts.

    PYQ:

    [2011] The surface of a lake is frozen in severe winter, but the water at its bottom is still liquid. What is the reason?

    (a) Ice is a bad conductor of heat

    (b) Since the surface of the lake is at the same temperature as the air, no heat is lost

    (c) The density of water is maximum at 4 °C

    (d) None of the statements A, B and C given above is correct.

  • Labrys portucalensis F11

    Why in the News?

    A research team has discovered that Labrys portucalensis F11, a strain of aerobic bacteria from the Xanthobacteraceae family, can break down and transform multiple types of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of persistent environmental pollutants.

    About Labrys portucalensis F11

    • It is a type of bacteria that can break down harmful chemicals known as PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances).
    • It was first found in contaminated soil at an industrial site in Portugal.
    • Scientists have discovered that it can remove fluorine from certain chemical pollutants, making them less toxic.
    • PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily in nature.
    • Labrys portucalensis F11 can digest PFAS, helping to clean up polluted soil and water.

    How does it work?

    • It attacks the strong chemical bonds in PFAS, removing fluorine atoms.
    • It uses carbon from PFAS as food, helping it grow while reducing pollution.
    • It survives in oxygen-rich environments, making it ideal for cleaning up industrial waste sites.
    • In 100 days, it broke down 90% of PFOS, one of the most harmful PFAS chemicals.
    • Unlike most bacteria, it can also break down PFAS leftovers, making them even safer.

    Back2Basics: Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

    • Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic chemicals widely used in industrial and consumer products for their waterproof, grease-resistant, and non-stick properties.
    • PFAS are commonly found in non-stick cookware (Teflon), waterproof clothing, food packaging, fire-fighting foams, and industrial applications.
    • These chemicals are known for their high resistance to heat, water, and oil, making them useful but also environmentally persistent.
    • Common Uses:
      • Non-stick cookware (Teflon), waterproof fabrics, stain-resistant coatings, and fire-fighting foams.
      • Industrial applications such as metal plating, food packaging, and electronics manufacturing.
    • Environmental and Health Concerns:
      • PFAS are often called “forever chemicals” because they do not naturally degrade and persist in soil, water, and living organisms.
      • Exposure to PFAS has been linked to cancer, liver damage, immune system disruption, and hormonal imbalances.
    • Regulatory Actions:
      • In 2023, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) designated PFOS (a type of PFAS) as a hazardous substance, requiring strict monitoring and clean-up efforts.
      • Governments worldwide are phasing out PFAS use and funding research into bioremediation technologies like the F11 bacteria-based clean-up approach.
      • In 2020, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) adopted international criteria for sampling and testing certain PFAS compounds, such as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS).
        • However, comprehensive policies to regulate or ban PFAS are still lacking.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Which of the following can be found as pollutants in the drinking water in some parts of India?

    1. Arsenic
    2. Sorbitol
    3. Fluoride
    4. Formaldehyde
    5. Uranium

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 and 3 only
    (b) 2, 4 and 5 only
    (c) 1, 3 and 5 only
    (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5