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GS Paper: GS3

  • Union Minister Releases India State of Forest Report, 2023

    Why in the News?

    The India State of Forest Report 2023 (ISFR 2023) was released by the Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, at the Forest Research Institute in Dehradun.

    What is the Forest Survey of India (FSI)?

    • Forest Survey of India (FSI) is an organisation under the Ministry of Environment & Forests, Government of India Its principal mandate is to conduct survey and assessment of forest resources in the country. ​
    • It started as an organization called Pre- Investment Survey of Forest Resources (PISFR) in 1965 as FAO/UNDP/GOI Project.

    What is India’s State of Forest Report?

    • This report, published biennially by the Forest Survey of India (FSI) since 1987, provides a detailed assessment of the country’s forest and tree resources using satellite data and field surveys.
    • The 2023 edition marks the 18th report in this series.

    What are the major highlights of the Report?

    • Total Forest and Tree Cover: India’s total forest and tree cover is 827,357 sq km, representing 25.17% of the country’s geographical area, with 715,343 sq km (21.76%) as forest cover and 112,014 sq km (3.41%) as tree cover.
    • Increase in Forest and Tree Cover: Since 2021, there has been an increase of 1,445 sq km in total forest and tree cover, including a 156 sq km rise in forest cover and a 1,289 sq km increase in tree cover.
    • Top States for Increase: The states with the largest increases in forest and tree cover are Chhattisgarh (+684 sq km), Uttar Pradesh (+559 sq km), Odisha (+559 sq km), and Rajasthan (+394 sq km).
    • States with Largest Forest Areas: The states with the most forest and tree cover are Madhya Pradesh (85,724 sq km), Arunachal Pradesh (67,083 sq km), and Maharashtra (65,383 sq km).
    • Mangrove Cover: India’s total mangrove cover is 4,992 sq km, reflecting ongoing efforts in mangrove conservation.
    • Growing Stock and Bamboo Resources: The total growing stock has increased by 262 million cubic meters, and the bamboo-bearing area has expanded by 5,227 sq km, totaling 154,670 sq km.
    • Carbon Stock and Sequestration: India’s forest carbon stock is estimated at 7,285.5 million tonnes, with an increase of 81.5 million tonnes. The country has exceeded its carbon sequestration targets under the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC), reaching a carbon stock of 30.43 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent.
    • Technological Advancements: The Forest Survey of India (FSI) has implemented advanced technology for real-time fire alerts and forest fire services, improving forest management and conservation practices.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Conservation Efforts and Management: Enhance forest management practices, focusing on sustainable forest use, biodiversity conservation, and tackling deforestation, while increasing the involvement of local communities in conservation initiatives.
    • Expand Technological Innovations and Monitoring: Continue leveraging advanced technologies for real-time monitoring of forest health, including fire alerts, and expand data-driven approaches to improve forest protection, carbon sequestration, and restoration efforts.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Examine the status of forest resources of India and its resultant impact on climate change. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • On Kisan Diwas: Why terms of trade have improved more for farm workers than farmers

    Why in the News?

    Crop prices have lagged behind the rising production costs, while agricultural wages have grown faster than inflation over the past two decades.

    What is ‘Terms of Trade’?

    • Terms of Trade (ToT) refers to the relative prices of goods and services that a country exports compared to the prices of goods and services it imports. In the context of agriculture, it specifically relates to the prices received by farmers for their produce versus the prices they pay for inputs (like seeds, fertilizers, and equipment).
    • A favourable ToT means that farmers are receiving higher prices for their products relative to their costs, which enhances their profitability.

    What factors have contributed to the improved terms of trade for farm workers compared to farmers?

    • Wage Growth: Agricultural labourers have experienced significant increases in wages, with their Index of Prices Received (IPR) rising more than threefold from 49.1 to 151.4 between 2004-05 and 2013-14, while their Index of Prices Paid (IPP) increased only modestly from 76.4 to 129.3 during the same period. This resulted in a substantial improvement in their ToT from 64.2% to 117.1%.
    • Stagnation of Farmer Incomes: In contrast, farmers’ IPR rose by only 56.3% from 2013-14 to 2022-23, while their IPP increased by 58.4%. This led to a decline in their ToT from 98.6% to 97.2%, indicating that farmers are facing a cost squeeze as input prices rise faster than the prices they receive for their produce.
    • Economic Diversification: The expansion of employment opportunities outside agriculture has allowed agricultural labourers to seek better-paying jobs in sectors like construction and services, increasing their bargaining power and wage rates.

    How do government policies impact the economic conditions (of farmers versus farm workers)?

    • Employment Schemes: Government initiatives such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) have provided rural labourers with guaranteed employment, improving their income stability and negotiating power against employers.
    • Income Support Programs: Various states have implemented income support schemes targeting women, which have further tightened the labour market and increased wage demands among agricultural workers. For example, Mukhya Mantri Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Yojana (MMKSY).
    • Subsidies and Minimum Support Prices: While subsidies on inputs like fertilizers and electricity have provided some relief to farmers, they have not sufficiently offset the rising costs or improved farmers’ ToT significantly, leading to ongoing economic distress among this group.

    What are the broader implications of these changes for the agricultural sector and rural economy?

    • Shift in Economic Power: The improved ToT for agricultural labourers relative to farmers reflects a shift in economic power dynamics within rural areas, potentially leading to greater social mobility for labourers but also highlighting the vulnerabilities faced by farmers.
    • Increased Demand for Labor: As agricultural labourers gain better wages and conditions, there may be a reduction in available labour for farming activities, leading to challenges for farmers who may struggle to find enough workers willing to accept lower wages or demand better working conditions.
    • Social Tensions: The disparities between the economic conditions of farmers and agricultural labourers can lead to social tensions, especially as farmers express dissatisfaction over stagnant incomes while labourers experience wage growth. This situation may exacerbate calls for policy reforms aimed at addressing these inequities.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Farmer Profitability: Introduce policies to ensure fair pricing for crops, reduce input costs through targeted subsidies, and promote crop diversification and value addition to improve farmers’ income and Terms of Trade (ToT).
    • Strengthen Rural Employment: Expand employment opportunities in rural non-farm sectors and align government schemes like MGNREGA with skill development programs to sustain wage growth for agricultural labourers while addressing labour shortages in farming.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What are the main constraints in the transport and marketing of agricultural produce in India? (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • What are the new Interception Rules and Safeguards?

    Why in the News?

    The Centre has introduced the Telecommunications (Lawful Interception of Messages) Rules, 2024, replacing Rule 419A of the Indian Telegraph Rules, 1951, allowing certain agencies to intercept phone messages under specific conditions.

    About the Indian Telegraph Rules, 1951

    • The Indian Telegraph Rules, 1951 are a set of regulations that govern the establishment, maintenance, and operation of telecommunication services in India.
    • These rules were framed under the provisions of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, which is a key legislation that grants the government authority to regulate telecommunication networks in India.
    • The rules cover various aspects of telecommunication, such as:
    1. The process for obtaining telecommunication licenses.
    2. The rights and obligations of telecommunication service providers.
    3. The use of telecommunication networks for government purposes.
    4. Provisions for the lawful interception and monitoring of communication for security, investigation, and public interest reasons (Rule 419A).

    What do the new Telecommunications (Procedures and Safeguards for Lawful Interception of Messages) Rules, 2024 state?

    1. Authorization for interception:
      • The Union Home Secretary and the Secretary to the State government in charge of the Home Department can authorize interception orders.
      • An officer not below the rank of Joint Secretary may issue interception orders in unavoidable circumstances (the circumstances are not specified).
    2. Remote areas/operational reasons:
      • In remote areas, or for operational reasons, the head or second senior-most officer of the authorized agency (at central and state levels) can issue orders.
      • These orders must be confirmed by the competent authority within seven days.
      • If not confirmed, the interception ceases and the data cannot be used for any purpose, including court evidence.
    3. Destruction of records:
      • Interception records must be destroyed every six months by the authorized agency and review committee, unless required for functional purposes or court directions.

    Will it override Rule 419A of the Indian Telegraph Rules, 1951?

    • Yes, Rule 419A is replaced with these new rules, introducing changes in the conditions and procedures for interception.
    • Previously, interception was allowed only in emergent cases.
      • The new rules broaden this to include situations where it is not feasible to obtain prior orders in remote areas or due to operational reasons.
    • Under Rule 419A, there was no limit to the number of IGP-rank officers at the State level who could be authorized for interception.
    • The new rules allow only the head and second senior-most officer of the authorized agency at the state level to issue orders.
      • If the order is not confirmed within seven days, any intercepted messages cannot be used for any purposes, including court evidence.

    PYQ:

    [2021] ‘Right to Privacy’ is protected under which Article of the Constitution of India?

    (a) Article 19
    (b) Article 20
    (c) Article 21
    (d) Article 29

  • What is Starlink?

    Why in the News?

    Elon Musk, founder of SpaceX, denied claims that militants in Manipur (India) were using his Starlink satellite internet technology after the Indian Army and police seized Starlink devices alongside weapons.

    Starlink’s involvement in Terrorism:

    • The Indian Army shared photos showing weapons and what seemed to be Starlink devices seized in Manipur. The equipment was marked with “RPF/PLA,” referring to a militant group.
    • This discovery raised concerns over the potential bypass of geographic restrictions by non-state actors.
    • Musk denied the allegations, explaining that Starlink services were not operational in India, despite the devices being found in the region.

    What is Starlink?

    • Starlink is a satellite internet service developed by SpaceX, designed to provide broadband internet via a network of low Earth orbit satellites.
    • Satellites are launched ensuring low latency and high-speed connections compared to traditional satellite internet.
    • Starlink uses a large constellation of satellites, each equipped with phased array antennas and parabolic antennas to boost capacity.
    • SpaceX has plans to launch 42,000 satellites, which will create a mega-constellation to provide global coverage.

    Does Starlink have regulatory approval in India?

    • Starlink does not yet have regulatory approval in India.
    • India’s regulatory framework restricts the use of foreign satellite communication services, especially for non-commercial purposes.
    • Starlink is however operational in more than 60 countries, including neighboring countries like Bangladesh and Bhutan (where it plans to start operations in 2025).

    PYQ:

    [2016] Discuss India’s achievements in the field of Space Science and Technology. How the application of this technology helped India in its socio-economic development?

  • Challenges of Posthumous Assisted Reproduction (PAR)

    Why in the News?

    On October 4, 2024, the Delhi High Court allowed the parents of a deceased man to use his frozen semen for posthumous reproduction. The court cited a similar 2018 case in Germany and noted that the ART Act, 2021, doesn’t specifically address such situations.

    What is Posthumous Assisted Reproduction (PAR)?

    • Posthumous reproduction refers to the use of reproductive material (such as sperm or eggs) from a deceased individual to conceive a child after their death.
    • This can include posthumous sperm retrieval, where sperm is collected from a deceased man (typically through medical procedures shortly after death) for future use in assisted reproductive technologies, like in vitro fertilization (IVF).

    What does the Law says in India?

    • The Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Act, 2021 governs all fertility treatments and artificial insemination procedures.
    • The ART Rules, 2022 specify guidelines for posthumous sperm retrieval, but only in cases where the deceased was married, and the surviving spouse is the one requesting the retrieval.
      1. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) rejected the parents’ request, clarifying that the law does not apply to “post-mortem grandparenthood.”
    • The Surrogacy Regulation Act applies exclusively to married couples or women with medical needs for surrogacy and does not include grandparents as “intending grandparents.”

    Challenges posed by Posthumous Assisted Reproduction (PAR):

    PAR presents several legal, ethical, and social challenges:

    • Legal Issues: There’s a lack of clear laws governing the use of gametes after death, especially regarding consent from the deceased and questions about parentage and inheritance. The absence of specific regulations makes it difficult to establish who holds parental rights.
    • Ethical Concerns: Issues include the morality of using a deceased person’s genetic material, the commodification of human tissue, and concerns about grandparenthood. The emotional and ethical implications for surviving family members also come into play.
    • Social and Psychological Issues: Children born through PAR may face challenges related to knowing their deceased parent, and surviving partners may struggle with grief or guilt. Disputes over the deceased’s wishes can complicate family dynamics.
    • Biological Considerations: The long-term storage of gametes can lead to degradation, affecting the quality of embryos or sperm. Preserving genetic material for extended periods also presents technical challenges.
    • Cultural and Religious Concerns: Different cultures and religions may oppose posthumous reproduction, viewing it as morally or spiritually problematic.
    • Access and Equity: PAR can be expensive and may raise issues of access and commercialization, potentially leading to exploitation or unequal access to these technologies.

    PYQ:

    [2021] In the context of hereditary diseases, consider the following statements: 

    1. Passing on mitochondrial diseases from parent to child can be prevented by mitochondrial replacement therapy either before or after in vitro fertilization of egg.

    2. A child inherits mitochondrial diseases entirely from mother and not from father.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • What are Hydrothermal Vents?

    Why in the News?

    • Indian oceanographers have captured the first-ever image of an active hydrothermal vent located 4,500 metres below the surface of the Indian Ocean.
      • This discovery is part of India’s Deep Ocean Mission under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, with a total outlay of ₹4,000 crore.

    What are Hydrothermal Vents?

    • Hydrothermal vents are typically found near tectonic plates, where cold water (about 2°C) near the ocean floor mixes with magma, leading to superheated water (up to 370°C) that emerges through chimneys.
    • These vents release mineral-rich plumes, including metals like copper, zinc, gold, silver, platinum, iron, cobalt, and nickel, making them significant for mineral exploration.

    Mineral Potential of Hydrothermal Vents:

    • Hydrothermal vent deposits are rich in valuable minerals such as copper, zinc, gold, silver, and nickel, which are highly sought after for various industries.
    • These vents can remain active for periods ranging from a few hundred years to 30,000 years, making them long-lasting and crucial for mineral exploration.
    • Scientists at NCPOR, confirmed that the image showed an active vent chimney with black smokers, and signs of chemosynthetic organisms thriving in this extreme environment.
      • This discovery enhances India’s Deep Ocean Mission, particularly the Samudrayaan mission, which focuses on mineral exploration from inactive hydrothermal vents.

    About the Hydrothermal Exploration Programme by NCPOR:

    Details
    • A scientific initiative by the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) to explore hydrothermal vents in the Indian Ocean, focusing on the Central and Southwest Indian Ridges.
    • Aimed at mineral exploration and studying ecosystems around hydrothermal vents.
    Aims and Objectives
    • Locate and Study Hydrothermal Vents: Identify active vents with minerals like copper, zinc, gold, and nickel.
    • Mineral Exploration: Part of India’s Deep Ocean Mission, aiming at valuable mineral exploration such as cobalt and platinum.
    • Biodiversity Studies: Understand chemosynthetic organisms that thrive in extreme conditions of the vents.
    Key Features of the Programme
    • Geophysical Surveys: Conducted since 2012 to detect temperature anomalies and turbidity in the water columns for locating vent fields.
    • Use of Advanced Technology: Utilizes Automatic Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) and high-resolution imaging.
    • Collaborations: Partners with the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) for exploration in the Southern Indian Ocean.

     

    About the Deep Ocean Mission (DOM):

    • DOM is an ambitious initiative by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) approved in 2021 to develop technologies for deep-sea exploration.
    • Part of the 9 missions under the Prime Minister’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Advisory Council (PMSTIAC).

    Important updates in DOM:

    • Samudrayaan and Matsya6000:
      • Launched in 2021 under DOM, Samudrayaan is India’s flagship crewed expedition to reach a depth of 6,000 m in the Central Indian Ocean.
      • The mission will utilize Matsya6000, a deep-ocean submersible designed for a three-member crew.
        • Construction: Made from titanium alloy to endure pressures up to 6,000 bar.

    India’s Ocean Exploration Milestones:

    • 1981: Ocean studies began with a program on polymetallic nodules (PMN) initiated at CSIR-NIO, marked by the collection of the first nodule sample from the Arabian Sea aboard the research vessel Gaveshani.
    • 1987: India became the first country to receive Pioneer Investor status from the International Seabed Authority (ISA).
      • Allocated 1.5 lakh km² in the Central Indian Ocean Basin (CIOB) for nodule exploration, based on extensive surveys by CSIR-NIO.
    • 2002: India signed a contract with the ISA; after resource analysis, surrendered 50% of the allotted area, retaining 75,000 km².
    • Further studies narrowed the mining area to 18,000 km², identified as the First Generation Mine-site.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] Consider the following statements:

    1. The Global Ocean Commission grants licences for seabed exploration and mining in international waters.
    2. India has received licences for seabed mineral exploration in international waters
    3. ‘Rare earth minerals’ are present on the seafloor in international waters.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

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

  • What is Protected Area Regime (PAR)?

    Why in the News?

    • The Manipur government has announced that the Central government has re-imposed the Protected Area Regime (PAR) in Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland, all of which share borders with Myanmar.
      • The reimposition of the PAR comes after 13 years of relaxation and is aimed at addressing security concerns, primarily the alleged illegal immigration from Myanmar.

    What is the Protected Area Regime (PAR)?

    Details
    • Introduced under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958, which is part of the Foreigners Act, 1946.
    • The regime was created to regulate the movement of foreigners in sensitive areas near international borders.
    • It applies to regions between the Inner Line and the International Border, primarily areas close to Myanmar in these states.

    Objectives: To ensure national security by restricting foreign nationals’ access to sensitive regions.

    Implications:  

    • For Foreign Visitors: Special permits and approvals required, potentially discouraging tourism.
    • Impact on Tourism and Development: Could slow international tourism and investments, reversing earlier benefits.
    • Enhanced Security: Allows tighter control over foreign movements, addressing illegal migration.
    • Border Control: Strengthens border management, reducing unauthorized cross-border activities.
    Areas Covered
    • Pre-2010: Applied to all of Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and parts of Jammu & Kashmir, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
    • 2010 Relaxation: The regime was relaxed for Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland, allowing foreigners to visit these areas without special permits.
    • 2024 Reimposition: The regime has been reimposed in these states, particularly due to security concerns related to illegal immigration and border management.
    Structural Mandate 
    • Mandate: Foreign nationals must apply for a Protected Area Permit (PAP) through the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) or state authorities to enter these areas.
    • Implementation: The PAPs specify the duration of stay and movement routes. Unauthorized extension or deviation from routes is prohibited. The system is managed under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958.
    • Exemptions: Some countries may have exemptions, and Indian citizens generally do not need PAPs to travel in these areas.

  • A Study of Budgets of 2024-25 (Fiscal Reforms by States) Report released by RBI

    Why in the News?

    • According to the RBI report on state finances, India’s fiscal deficit has increased from 2.8% of GDP in FY22 to a projected 3.2% in FY24, signaling that fiscal consolidation is being side-lined in favor of increasing expenditure.
      • Capital expenditure (capex) has risen from 2.2% of GDP in FY23 to a budgeted 3.2% in FY24, indicating increased investment in assets for future growth.

    Fiscal position of the States as per the Report

    • Fiscal Deficit:
      • The Gross Fiscal Deficit (GFD) of states is projected to rise from 2.7% of GDP in FY2022-23 to 2.9% of GDP in FY2023-24.
      • This rise indicates that fiscal consolidation has been put on hold, with states continuing to spend more than their revenues.
      • Many states have budgeted for fiscal deficits above the 3% of GSDP mark, including Andhra Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and West Bengal, among others.
    • Revenue Expenditure:
      • Revenue Expenditure is expected to increase to 14.6% of GDP in FY2025, up from 13.5% in FY2024, indicating a rise in the current expenditure of states.
    • Capital Expenditure (Capex):
      • States have ramped up their capital expenditure (spending on creating assets), which has increased from 2.2% of GDP in FY2023 to 3.2% of GDP in FY2024.
      • This increase is in line with the government’s focus on infrastructure and long-term growth.
    • State Revenue:
      • State revenues are projected to increase from 13.3% of GDP in FY2024 to 14.3% in FY2025, driven by improved tax collections.
      • There has been a marked improvement in own tax revenue buoyancy compared to the pre-Covid period.
    • Debt-to-GDP Ratio:
      • The debt-to-GDP ratio for states has increased slightly to 28.8% in FY2024, from 28.5% in FY2023.
      • States with high fiscal deficits tend to have debt-to-GDP ratios above the national average, which suggests they have been sustaining deficits for a longer time.
    • Borrowing Trends:
      • States have shifted significantly towards market borrowings.
      • The share of market borrowings in financing the fiscal deficit has increased from 17% in 2005-06 to 79% in FY2024-25.
    • Recommendations:
      • The report suggests prudent management of subsidies, rationalization of centrally sponsored schemes, debt consolidation, and the adoption of climate and outcome budgeting to improve state fiscal health.

    PYQ:

    [2018] Consider the following statements:

    1. The Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Review Committee Report has recommended a debt to GDP ratio of 60% for the general (combined) government by 2023, comprising 40% for the Central Government and 20% for the State Governments.
    2. The Central Government has domestic liabilities of 21% of GDP as compared to that of 49% of GDP of the State Governments.
    3. As per the Constitution of India, it is mandatory for a State to take the Central Government’s consent for raising any loan if the former owes any outstanding liabilities to the latter.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

  • Japan, India startups collaborate to tackle space debris

    Why in the News?

    space startups from Japan and India announced a joint agreement to explore the use of laser-equipped satellites for removing debris from orbit, addressing the growing issue of orbital congestion.

    What is Space Debris?

    • Space debris, often referred to as space junk, consists of non-functional spacecraft, spent rocket stages, and fragments from collisions or disintegration of satellites.
    • These objects orbit the Earth at high speeds, posing significant risks to operational satellites and manned missions.

    What are laser-equipped satellites for removing debris from orbit?

    • Laser-equipped satellites utilize focused laser beams to target and vaporize small parts of space debris, effectively stopping its rotation and making it easier for servicing spacecraft to rendezvous with and de-orbit defunct satellites. T
    • Companies like Japan’s Orbital Lasers and India’s InspeCity are collaborating to explore business opportunities for these laser systems.
    • They plan to demonstrate this technology in space, with potential deployment on satellites after meeting regulatory requirements in their respective countries, indicating a growing interest in international partnerships to tackle the issue of space debris.

    What are the concerns related to space debris?

    • Collision Risks: The increasing amount of space debris raises the likelihood of collisions with active satellites and spacecraft, which can lead to further debris generation in a cascading effect known as the Kessler Syndrome.
    • Operational Challenges: Space debris complicates satellite operations and can disrupt services such as telecommunications, weather forecasting, and global positioning systems.
    • Environmental Impact: The accumulation of debris in low Earth orbit (LEO) threatens the sustainability of space activities and could hinder future space exploration efforts.

    What are the initiatives to tackle space debris globally?

    • International Collaboration: Organizations like the United Nations have called for urgent action to track and manage space debris, emphasizing the need for global cooperation.
    • Technological Innovations: Companies like Orbital Lasers are exploring innovative solutions such as using laser-equipped satellites to de-orbit defunct satellites and mitigate debris by vaporizing parts of their surfaces.
    • Regulatory Frameworks: Various countries are developing regulations to ensure responsible satellite launches and operations, including guidelines for end-of-life satellite disposal to minimize future debris creation.

    What are the measures should be taken by Satellite? (Way forward)

    • Tracking and Monitoring: Satellites use onboard systems and ground-based tracking data to monitor the position of space debris and predict potential collision risks.
    • Avoidance Maneuvers: Satellites perform preemptive orbital adjustments or “collision avoidance manoeuvres” to shift their trajectory away from debris.
    • Shielding and Resilience: Some satellites are equipped with protective shielding to withstand minor debris impacts, minimizing potential damage in low-risk scenarios.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What is India’s plan to have its own space station and how will it benefit our space programme? (UPSC IAS/2019)

  • IRIS² Program

    Why in the News?

    The European Union has signed a contract for IRIS², a network of 290 satellites aimed at improving resilience, connectivity, and security.

    About IRIS²:

    Details
    • IRIS² stands for Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity, and Security by Satellite.
    • It consists of a 290-satellite constellation, including 264 satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and 18 in Medium Earth Orbit (MEO).
    • Collaboration between European Union and SpaceRISE.
    • First satellite launch planned for 2029.

    Key Features of IRIS²:

    • Deployment of 264 satellites in LEO and 18 in MEO.
    • Provide secure, high-speed broadband connectivity, particularly in underserved regions.
    • Focus on Europe for secure satellite internet services.
    Project Funding and Implementation
    • 12-year concession for IRIS² is funded by the EU, ESA, and private firms like SES, Eutelsat, and Airbus.
    • Total cost: €10.6 billion (~$11 billion).
    Applications of IRIS²
    • Governmental Use: Border surveillance, crisis management, infrastructure security, and defense.
    • Civilian Use: Broadband access, smart energy, transportation, and remote healthcare.

     

    World’s Largest Earth Observation Programs: Take a look

    • Copernicus Program (EU): Launched in 2014, the Copernicus Program is a European Union initiative with satellites like Sentinel to monitor land, ocean, and atmosphere, enhancing environmental management and disaster response.
    • NASA Earth Observing System (EOS): Initiated in 1997, NASA’s EOS provides comprehensive Earth observation data from satellites like Terra and Aqua, focused on understanding Earth’s environment, climate change, and atmospheric composition.
    • Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS): Founded in 2005, GEOSS connects Earth observation systems globally to provide data on climate, water resources, biodiversity, and natural disasters, involving over 100 organizations.
    • Landsat Program (USA): Launched in 1972 by NASA and USGS, Landsat is the longest-running satellite program offering continuous Earth surface monitoring, focusing on land cover, land use, and environmental changes.

    Note: 

    In September, 2024, ISRO launched the Earth Observation Satellite EOS-08 under the SSLV-D3/EOS-08 mission from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, with the satellite operating in a circular Low Earth Orbit at an altitude of 475 km and a mission life of 1 year.