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GS Paper: GS3

  •  Why the Odisha government will plant palm trees to combat lightning strikes          

    Why in the news?

    In July, the Odisha government approved a proposal to plant 1.9 million palm trees to mitigate deaths caused by lightning strikes, which were declared a state-specific disaster in 2015.

    How many people have lost their lives to lightning in Odisha?   

    • Over the last 11 years, a total of 3,790 people have lost their lives due to lightning strikes in Odisha.
    • In the previous three fiscal years, 791 fatalities were reported, indicating an increasing frequency of lightning strikes.
    • On September 2, 2023, Odisha recorded 61,000 lightning strikes in a two-hour period, resulting in the deaths of at least 12 people.

    Why are Lightning strikes of particular concern in Odisha?

    • Odisha is located in a tropical zone and experiences a hot, dry climate that creates ideal conditions for lightning strikes.
    • The state has the highest number of cloud-to-ground lightning strikes in eastern and central India. The Annual Lightning Report 2023-2024 indicates a significant concentration of lightning activity in this region.
    • Research indicates that climate change exacerbates lightning activity, with a 10% increase in lightning occurrences for every degree Celsius of warming. This is particularly relevant in Odisha, where climatic factors contribute to frequent lightning events.
    • With 96% of lightning strikes occurring in rural areas, the most affected populations include farmers and daily wage earners who work outdoors, making them particularly vulnerable during peak agricultural seasons.

    How can Odisha defend Itself against lightning strikes?

    • Planting Palm Trees: The Odisha government has approved a proposal to plant 19 lakh palm trees as a natural defense against lightning strikes. Palm trees are considered effective conductors of lightning due to their height and moisture content, which can absorb lightning and mitigate its impact on the ground.
    • Financial Commitment: The state has allocated Rs 7 crore for the palm tree plantation initiative and has banned the felling of existing palm trees to enhance this strategy.
    • Public Awareness and Early Warning Systems: While the state has implemented early warning systems to forecast lightning strikes, experts emphasize the need for widespread public education on safety measures during lightning events.
    • Concerns: Experts have raised concerns about the effectiveness of palm trees as a long-term solution, noting that it takes 15 to 20 years for them to reach a height where they can effectively mitigate lightning strikes.

    NDMA Guidelines for Lightning

    • Preparation and Awareness: The Local government should educate the communities about lightning safety and the risks associated with thunderstorms.
    • Seek Shelter: During a thunderstorm, individuals should seek shelter in a fully enclosed building or a hard-topped metal vehicle. Open vehicles and structures such as metal sheds or under-construction buildings are unsafe.
    • Avoid Trees: Taking shelter under trees is discouraged, as they can attract lightning. If in a wooded area, find the shortest trees for shelter.
    • Crouching Position: If no shelter is available, crouch down with heels touching and head between the knees to minimize height and reduce risk.
    • 30-30 Rule: After seeing lightning, start counting to 30. If you hear thunder before reaching 30, go indoors. This rule helps assess the distance of the storm.

    Way forward: 

    • Installation of Lightning Rods and Conductors: The government should invest in the widespread installation of lightning rods and conductors in rural and vulnerable areas. These devices can provide immediate protection to critical infrastructure, homes, and open fields where farmers and workers are most at risk.
    • Advanced Early Warning Systems: Need to enhance the existing early warning systems with more accurate, real-time data and ensure these warnings are disseminated quickly through multiple channels, including mobile alerts, community announcements, and local radio.

    Main PYQ: 

    Q Explain the mechanism and occurrence of cloudburst in the context of the Indian subcontinent. Discuss two recent examples. (2022)

  • Centre reissues draft notification on ecosensitive areas in Western Ghats          

    Why in the news?

    On Friday, the Central government released the sixth draft notification, designating 56,825.7 square kilometre of the Western Ghats as an ecologically sensitive area (ESA) across the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.

    Recommendations of the Gadgil and Kasturirangan Committees

    • Gadgil Committee: Recommended that 75% of the Western Ghats (129,037 sq km) be designated as ecologically sensitive areas (ESAs) with restrictions on development activities.
    • Kasturirangan Committee: Notified only 37% of the Western Ghats as ESAs, reducing the extent compared to the Gadgil report. It split the region into cultural (human settlements) and natural (non-human settlements) zones.

    Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs)

    • ESAs are regions recognized for their environmental significance, where human activities are regulated to protect biodiversity, ecosystems, and natural habitats. These areas are often home to endemic species of plants and animals and are crucial for maintaining ecological balance.
    • The Environment (Protection) Act of 1986 allows the Central Government to restrict industrial activities in these sensitive areas to safeguard their ecological integrity. Although the term “Eco-Sensitive Zones” is not explicitly mentioned in the Act, provisions exist to prohibit or regulate activities based on biodiversity and environmental considerations.

    The reason behind it:

    • Biodiversity Hotspot: The Western Ghats is recognized as one of the world’s eight “hottest hotspots” of biological diversity and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to numerous endemic species and globally threatened flora and fauna, making its protection crucial for conserving biodiversity.
    • Recent Natural Disasters: The draft notification follows severe landslides in Wayanad, Kerala, which resulted in significant loss of life and property. These events underscored the vulnerability of the region to ecological disasters, highlighting the need for protective measures to prevent further environmental degradation

    Opposition from States

    • State governments, including Kerala, have opposed the proposals in the draft notifications for declaring ESAs along the Western Ghats.
    • The Kerala government want to reduce the ESA to 9,993.7 sq km from the Kasturirangan committee’s recommendation of 13,108 sq km.
    • The then Kerala government led by Oommen Chandy opposed the Gadgil report and appointed another panel to come up with an independent report.

    New Panel Formed by the Government

    • In April 2022, the Centre formed another panel to “re-examine suggestions by these six state governments while keeping in view the conservation aspects of the disaster-prone pristine ecosystem, as well as rights, privileges, needs and developmental aspirations of the region”.
    • The Centre and expert panel held 10 meetings with states having Western Ghats to discuss the fifth draft notification at various forums.
    • The sixth draft notification, issued on Friday, declared 56,825.7 sq km of the Western Ghats as ESAs in the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu

    Way forward: 

    • Integrated Management Plans: The Government should develop and implement integrated management plans that balance ecological conservation with the developmental needs of the region.
    • Enhanced Monitoring and Enforcement: There is a need to strengthen the regulatory framework by enhancing monitoring mechanisms and enforcing existing environmental laws more stringently.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Differentiate the causes of landslides in the Himalayan region and Western Ghats. (2021)

  • [pib] Approval of Major Port at Vadhavan, Maharashtra

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has approved the project proposal for setting up a Major Port at Vadhavan, Palghar District of Maharashtra.

    About Vadhavan Port Project 

    • The project involves the development of core infrastructure, terminals, and other commercial infrastructure through a public-private partnership (PPP) mode.
    • The shareholding for the project is divided between the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (74%) and the Maharashtra Maritime Board (26%).
      • The project aims to create a total capacity of 298 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA).
    • Trade routes facilitated:

    Existing Major Ports in India

    • India has 12 Major Ports: Chennai, Cochin, Deendayal (Kandla), Jawaharlal Nehru (Nhava Sheva), Kolkata, Mormugao, Mumbai, New Mangalore, Paradip, V.O. Chidambaranar (Tuticorin), Visakhapatnam, and Kamarajar Port Limited.
    • Private Sector participation is allowed in Major Ports for specific projects/berths/terminals through concession agreements for a specific period via open competitive bidding on revenue share/royalty between the Concessionaire and the Major Port Authority.
    • After the expiry of the concession period, the asset is handed over to the Port Authority.

    Significance of Major Ports

    • Major ports play a critical role in facilitating international trade and commerce.
    • They serve as gateways for the import and export of goods, significantly contributing to the country’s economy.
    • Ports generate substantial revenue for the government through customs duties, port fees, and other related charges.
    • Ports facilitate international collaboration and partnerships, enhancing diplomatic and trade relations with other countries.

    PYQ:

    [2016] Recently, which of the following States has explored the possibility of constructing an artificial inland port to be connected to sea by a long navigational channel?

    (a) Andhra Pradesh

    (b) Chhattisgarh

    (c) Karnataka

    (d) Rajasthan

  • The relevance of pumped storage projects      

    Why in the news?

    The Union Budget for 2024-25 announced that “a policy will be introduced to promote pumped storage projects aimed at electricity storage and ensuring the seamless integration of the increasing share of renewable energy.

    Why is renewable power generation subject to variations and weather changes?

    • Due to Intermittent nature: Renewable energy sources, particularly solar and wind, are inherently intermittent. Solar energy is only available during daylight hours and is affected by weather conditions such as cloud cover, while wind energy varies with wind speed and direction. This variability leads to fluctuations in power generation, making it challenging to match supply with demand consistently.
    • Daily and Seasonal Variations: The generation capacity of renewable sources can change significantly over short periods (hours to days) and longer periods (seasonal). For instance, solar power generation peaks during sunny days and drops to zero at night, while wind power can vary greatly depending on seasonal weather patterns.

    Significance of Pumped Storage Projects

    • Grid Stabilization: Pumped storage projects are critical for stabilizing the power grid by addressing the variability and intermittency of renewable energy sources like solar and wind.
    • Energy Storage Capacity: PSPs account for over 94% of the installed global energy storage capacity, making them the most widely used technology for large-scale energy storage.
    • Flexible Energy Generation: These projects can provide both base load and peaking power, offering flexibility in energy generation.  
    • Environmental Benefits: Pumped storage is a clean and environmentally friendly technology.
    • Economic Viability: The cost of energy from pumped storage is competitive compared to other energy storage technologies.

    How do Power Managers decide which energy source to use?

    • Use of forecasting Techniques: Power managers utilize advanced forecasting techniques to predict renewable energy generation based on expected weather conditions. This allows them to plan the operation of different power plants in advance, ensuring a steady supply of electricity.
    • Demand and Supply Management: Decisions on which energy source to use are based on real-time demand and the availability of renewable energy. When there is a surplus of renewable energy (e.g., during sunny or windy periods), it may be used to pump water in pumped storage systems. Conversely, when renewable generation is low, power managers may rely on more stable sources like hydro, coal, or nuclear power to meet demand.

    Where are some of the Pumped Storage Projects of India situated?

    • Kadamparai: Located in Tamil Nadu, this facility has a capacity of 400 MW and operates by pumping water to a higher reservoir during periods of surplus power generation.
    • Other Notable Projects: India has several other pumped storage projects, including those at Nagarjunasagar, Kadana, and Panchet. These facilities contribute to managing the variability of renewable energy generation in the country.

    How do the reservoirs in Kadamparai, Tamil Nadu operate?

    • The Kadamparai pumped storage plant consists of two reservoirs at different elevations. Water is pumped from the lower reservoir to the upper reservoir when there is surplus power available, typically from solar or wind sources.
    • When demand rises, especially during peak evening hours, water flows from the upper reservoir to the lower reservoir, turning turbines to generate electricity. This operation allows the plant to provide power for three to four hours during peak demand periods, effectively stabilizing the grid.
    • The plant can switch between pumping and generating modes, allowing it to respond quickly to changes in power demand. This flexibility is crucial for integrating variable renewable energy sources into the grid.

    Conclusion: The need to Develop a robust and flexible grid infrastructure that can efficiently handle the integration of renewable energy sources is crucial. Implementing smart grid technologies, including real-time monitoring, advanced forecasting techniques, and automated demand-response systems, can optimize the balance between supply and demand.

  • Govt. introduces Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in Lok Sabha     

    Why in the news?

    Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai presented the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in the Lok Sabha on Thursday.

    Proposed Provisions in the Bill

    • Creation of a Disaster Database: The Bill mandates the establishment of a comprehensive disaster database at both national and state levels, which will include disaster assessments, fund allocation details, expenditures, preparedness and mitigation plans, and a risk register based on the type and severity of risks.
    • Urban Disaster Management Authority: It proposes the formation of an “Urban Disaster Management Authority” for state capitals and large cities with municipal corporations, aimed at enhancing local disaster management capabilities.
    • Empowerment of NDMA and SDMAs: The Bill empowers the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) to prepare disaster management plans, replacing the previous role of the National Executive Committee and State Executive Committees.
    • Periodic Risk Assessment: The NDMA is tasked with periodically assessing the entire range of disaster risks in the country, including emerging risks due to extreme climate events.
    • Statutory Status for Pre-Act Organizations: The Bill provides statutory recognition to certain pre-existing organizations, such as the National Crisis Management Committee and the High-Level Committee.
    • Penalties for Non-Compliance: It includes provisions allowing the Central and State governments to impose penalties for actions that hinder disaster management efforts, with fines not exceeding ₹10,000.

    Substantial Questions on Excessive Powers

    • Concerns Over Central Authority: Opposition members, including Congress leader Manish Tewari, raised concerns that the Bill grants excessive rule-making powers to the Central government, potentially encroaching upon the legislative powers reserved for State governments.
    • Constitutional Validity: Questions were raised regarding the constitutional basis for the Bill, as disaster management is not explicitly mentioned in the subjects of the Concurrent List.
    • Multiplicity of Authorities: Critics, including Trinamool Congress member Sougata Roy, expressed concerns that the creation of multiple authorities could lead to confusion and bureaucratic inefficiencies, potentially hampering effective disaster response.

    Need to aim for more clarity

    • Clarification of roles: The Bill aims to bring more clarity and convergence in the roles of various authorities and committees involved in disaster management, addressing the need for streamlined coordination among stakeholders.
    • Enhanced Local Management: By empowering local authorities through the establishment of Urban Disaster Management Authorities, the Bill seeks to ensure that disaster management plans are more relevant and tailored to specific regional challenges.
    • Alignment with Development Plans: The Bill emphasizes the need to mainstream disaster management into development plans, aligning with recommendations from the Fifteenth Finance Commission and ensuring that disaster risk reduction is integrated into broader governance frameworks.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthening Collaboration with State Governments: To address concerns about excessive central authority and potential overlaps with state powers, it is crucial to establish a framework for ongoing collaboration between the Central and State Disaster Management Authorities.
    • Implementing a Comprehensive Training and Capacity-Building Program: The successful implementation of the proposed Urban Disaster Management Authorities and the broader disaster management framework will depend on the capacity of local officials and stakeholders.

    Mains PYQ: 

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

  • States can directly buy Rice from FCI

    Why in the News?

    The Union Food and Consumer Affairs Minister announced that States can now directly purchase rice from the Food Corporation of India (FCI) under the Open Market Sale Scheme (Domestic) without participating in e-auctions.

    Key Announcements:

    Direct Rice Purchase of Rice by the States:

    • States can procure rice directly from FCI at ₹2,800 per quintal (excluding transportation cost), down from the earlier rate of ₹2,900 per quintal.
    • This new rate applies to rice procured over the stipulated 5 kg of free grain per individual under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY).

    Launch of Price Monitoring System (PMS) 4.0:

    • Minister Joshi launched the 4.0 version of the Price Monitoring System (PMS) mobile app.
    • The app, which previously monitored prices of 22 commodities daily, will now include 38 commodities.
    • The additional 16 food items are bajra (whole), jowar (whole), ragi (whole), suji (wheat), maida (wheat), besan, ghee, butter (pasteurised), brinjal, egg, black pepper, coriander, cumin seed, red chillies, turmeric powder, and banana.

     

    About Open Market Sale Scheme

    Details
    Purpose Enhance the supply of food grains, especially wheat, during the lean season to moderate open market prices, especially in deficit regions.
    Administered by Food Corporation of India (FCI)
    Method of Sale Surplus stocks of wheat and rice sold at pre-determined prices through e-auction on the National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange (NCDEX) platform.
    Participants Bulk consumers, private traders, State Governments, and Union Territory Administrations
    Auction Frequency Weekly
    Reserve Price Fixed by the government; bidders cannot quote less than the reserve price.
    Schemes under OMSS
    1. Sale of wheat to bulk consumers/private traders through e-auction.
    2. Sale of wheat to bulk consumers/private traders through e-auction by dedicated movement.
    3. Sale of Raw Rice Grade ‘A’ to bulk consumers/private traders through e-auction.

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] Which of the following is/are the advantage/advantages of implementing the ‘National Agriculture Market’ scheme?

    1. It is a pan-India electronic trading portal for agricultural commodities.

    2. It provides the farmers access to nationwide market, with prices commensurate with the quality of their produce.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • What is the Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme?

    Why in the News?

    Recent reports suggest that the government might reduce or discontinue the Sovereign Gold Bond (SGB) scheme due to its high cost.

    Decline in Popularity of SGB:

    • This speculation follows the Union budget’s decision to slash customs duties on gold and silver from 15% to 6%.
    • The reduction in customs duties is expected to decrease demand for SGBs, which has already led to a 2-5% drop in their prices on the National Stock Exchange (NSE).

    About Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs)

    Details
    Launch 2015
    Nature
    • Government securities denominated in grams of gold.
    • Issued by RBI.
    Objective Reduce dependence on gold imports and shift savings from physical gold to paper form.
    Eligibility Resident in India, including individuals, HUFs, trusts, universities, and charitable institutions.
    Denomination and Tenor
    • Denominated in multiples of grams of gold, with a basic unit of 1 gram.
    • Tenor of 8 years with an exit option from the 5th year on interest payment dates.
    Investment Limits
    • Minimum: 1 gram of gold.
    • Maximum: 4 kg for individuals and HUFs,
      • 20 kg for trusts and similar entities per fiscal year.
    Benefits
    • Quantity of gold protected, receiving market price at redemption.
    • Eliminates storage risks and costs.
    • Assured market value at maturity and periodic interest.
    • Free from making charges and purity issues.
    • Held in RBI books or demat form, eliminating scrip loss risk.
    Add-ons
    • Can be used as collateral for loans.
    • Loan-to-value (LTV) ratio set equal to ordinary gold loans.

     

    PYQ: 

    [2016] What is/are the purpose/purposes of Government’s ‘Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme’ and ‘Gold Monetization Scheme’?

    1. To bring the idle gold lying with Indian households into the economy
    2. To promote FDI in the gold and jewellery sector
    3. To reduce India’s dependence on gold imports

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

    https://indianexpress.com/article/business/commodities/gold-customs-duty-may-take-some-shine-off-sovereign-gold-bonds-9485686/

  • Mapping: River Seine

    Why in the News?

    The swimming events in the ongoing Paris Olympics were postponed due to concerns about the water quality of the River Seine.

    Issues with River Seine’s Water Quality:

    • Old Sewage System: Paris’ aged sewage system combines rainwater and wastewater in the same pipes, leading to overflow during heavy rains.
    • Untreated Sewage Discharge: Overflowing pipes cause untreated sewage to be discharged directly into the Seine instead of being treated.
    • Wildlife Contamination: Heavy rains wash wildlife, such as rodents, into the river, adding to the contamination.
    • E. coli Threat: The River often has high levels of E. coli bacteria, which can cause severe gastrointestinal and urinary tract infections.
    • Exceeding Safe Levels: Following heavy rains, E. coli levels in the Seine frequently exceed the safe threshold of 900 colony-forming units (cfu) per 100 ml of water.
    • Long-term Pollution: The Seine has been historically polluted, with a swimming ban in place since 1923 due to health risks.
    • Health Risks: High contamination levels pose significant health risks to swimmers, including infections and illnesses.

    About River Seine

    Details
    Country France
    Length 777 km
    Major Cities Along Course Paris, Troyes, Melun, Rouen, Le Havre
    Major Tributaries Aube, Marne, Yonne, Oise, Eure
    Population in Basin About 17 million people, including the Paris metropolitan area
    Navigability Navigable for about 560 kilometers from the estuary to Burgundy
    Estuary Location Empties into the English Channel at Le Havre and Honfleur
    Estuary Type Tidal estuary with significant tidal influence up to Rouen
    Historical Significance Central to Paris, with landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral, Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre along its banks
    UNESCO Status Banks of the Seine in Paris are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
    Economic Importance Major waterway for commercial shipping and tourism; key ports include Paris, Rouen, and Le Havre
    Recreational Activities Popular for river cruises, boating, fishing, and walking along its banks

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] Consider the following pairs?

    River: Flows into

    1. Mekong:  Andaman sea
    2. Thames: Irish Sea
    3. Volga: Caspian Sea
    4. Zambezi: Indian Ocean

    Which of the pairs above is/are correctly matched?

    (a) Only 1

    (b) Only 2

    (c) 3 Only

    (d) None of the above/More than one of the above.

     

    https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-sports/paris-olympics-triathlon-event-river-seines-water-quality-sewage-system-water-treatment-plants-9485616/

  • [pib] Artificial Insemination in Cattle

    Why in the News?

    • The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is implementing the Rashtriya Gokul Mission.
      • The mission aims to develop and conserve indigenous bovine breeds, genetically upgrade the bovine population, and enhance milk production and productivity.

    About Rashtriya Gokul Mission:

    Details
    About
    • Initiated in December 2014.
    • Announced under the National Programme for Bovine Breeding and Dairy Development during the 12th Five Year Plan. 
    • Continued under Rashtriya Pashudhan Vikas Yojana (2021-2026) with a budget of Rs. 2400 crore.
    Nodal Ministry Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying
    Objectives
    • Enhance productivity of bovines and increase sustainable milk production using advanced technologies.            
    • Propagate the use of high genetic merit bulls for breeding.
    • Expand artificial insemination coverage by strengthening the breeding network and delivering services at farmers’ doorsteps.
    • Promote scientific and holistic conservation of indigenous cattle and buffalo rearing.
    Significance
    • Increased productivity, benefiting all cattle and buffaloes in India, with a focus on small and marginal farmers.
    • Empowers women, who perform over 70% of livestock farming tasks.
    Components
    1. Availability of High Genetic Merit Germplasm
    2. Extension of Artificial Insemination Network
    3. Development and Conservation of Indigenous Breeds
    4. Skill Development
    5. Farmers’ Awareness
    6. Research, Development, and Innovation in Bovine Breeding
    Implementing Agency State Implementing Agency (SIA) viz. Livestock Development Boards
    Significant Initiatives
    • Gopal Ratna Awards: For farmers maintaining the best herd of Indigenous Breed and practicing best management practices.          
    • Kamdhenu Awards: For best-managed Indigenous herd by Institutions/Trusts/ NGOs/ Gaushalas or best-managed Breeders’ societies.
    • Gokul Grams: Integrated cattle development centers focusing on promoting indigenous cattle rearing and conservation in a scientific manner.
    • National Kamdhenu Breeding Centre (NKBC): Centre of Excellence for the holistic and scientific development and conservation of Indigenous Breeds.
    • E-Pashu Haat: Web portal providing information on pet cattle and facilitating trading of bovine animals.
    • Nakul Prajnan Bazaar: E-market portal connecting breeders and farmers for quality, disease-free bovine germplasm.
    • Pashu Sanjivni: Animal wellness program providing animal health cards and unique identification, uploading data on the National Database.
    • Advanced Reproductive Technology (ART): Includes Assisted Reproductive Technique- IVF/Multiple Ovulation Embryo Transfer (MOET) and sex-sorted semen technique.
    • National Bovine Genomic Center for Indigenous Breeds (NBGC-IB): To be established for selecting breeding bulls of high genetic merit at a young age using highly precise gene-based technology.

    Key Initiatives for Artificial Insemination:

    • Multi-Purpose Artificial Insemination Technicians in Rural India (MAITRI): This initiative provides trained manpower for delivering quality artificial insemination services at farmers’ doorsteps.
    • Nationwide Artificial Insemination Programme: This programme extends artificial insemination coverage among bovines using semen from high genetic merit bulls of indigenous breeds.
    • Induction of High Genetic Merit Bulls: This program produces bulls with known genetic potential through progeny testing and pedigree selection, supplying these bulls to semen stations for quality semen dose production.
    • Strengthening of Semen Stations: Efforts are made to improve the quality of semen production by formulating minimum standard protocols and establishing a Central Monitoring Unit for evaluation and grading of semen stations.
    • Breed Purity Tests: To protect indigenous breeds from indiscriminate breeding, breed purity tests are conducted for all imported germplasm.
    • Guidelines for Import and Export of Bovine Germplasm: The Department has formulated guidelines to regulate the import of germplasm and prevent the ingress of exotic diseases, ensuring the safety and purity of bovine genetics within the country.

    PYQ:

    [2012] Consider the following crops of India:

    1. Cowpea
    2. Green gram
    3. Pigeon pea

    Which of the above is/are used as pulse, fodder and green manure?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

    [2015] Livestock rearing has a big potential for providing non-farm employment and income in rural areas. Discuss suggesting suitable measures to promote this sector in India.

  • ‘Zombies’ in our Genes helped us evolve      

    Why in the News?

    Research suggests that around 8% of the human genome is composed of Endogenous Retroviruses (ERVs) often referred to as ‘zombie’ regions.

    Retroviruses and Human Genome Integration

    • Most viruses can’t affect the human genome, but retroviruses are an exception.
    • Retroviruses can integrate and reshape the genomes of their hosts.
    • They have an RNA genome and can reverse-transcribe it to DNA, inserting it into the host’s genome.
    • This process is facilitated by the enzyme reverse transcriptase.
    • Discovered by Howard Temin and David Baltimore in 1971, this enzyme converts the virus’s RNA into a corresponding DNA sequence.
    • Historical Discoveries:
      • Viral causes of cancer were known even before the mechanism was understood.
      • In 1908, Oluf Bang and Vilhelm Ellermann discovered the viral cause of chicken leukosis.
      • In 1957, Ludwik Gross isolated a leukaemia-causing virus in mice.

    What are Endogenous Retroviruses (ERVs)?

    • ERVs are remnants of ancient viral infections that have integrated into the genome of the host species.
    • When these retroviruses infect germ cells (sperm or egg cells), their genetic material can be passed down to the next generation, becoming a permanent part of the host’s DNA.
    • Zombie Regions:
      • They refer to inactive viral sequences within the genome that no longer produce functional viruses but remain as embedded genetic fossils.
      • These regions are a result of retrovirus integration that has lost its ability to replicate and produce proteins, yet they persist in the host’s DNA.

    Evolutionary Significance of ERVs:

    • In the life cycle of a retrovirus, reverse-transcribed DNA is integrated into the host’s DNA with the help of integrase.
    • The viral DNA, called a provirus, hijacks human cells, turning them into virus-making factories.
    • Over tens of thousands of years, many retroviruses have left genomic elements in human genome, contributing to evolutionary processes.
    • Example:
      • Syncytins are genes thought to have descended from ERVs and are crucial for placental development. These genes originally came from viruses and were acquired during mammalian evolution.

    Their Contribution to Human Biology

    • ERVs are highly expressed in the placenta and may influence conditions like preeclampsia.
    • Researchers found that a particular RNA derived from an ERV is dysregulated in early-onset preeclampsia, suggesting it could be used as a biomarker for the condition.
    • ERVs play a role in cell-type differentiation during embryo development.
    • A protein called MERVL-gag is derived from an ERV. This transition is crucial for producing pluripotent stem cells capable of forming different cell types.
    • Researchers also found that a human ERV element LTR10 affects tumour formation in colorectal cancer.

    PYQ:

    [2021] Consider the following statements :​

    1. Adenoviruses have single-stranded DNA genomes whereas retroviruses have double-stranded DNA genomes.​

    2. Common cold is sometime caused by an adenovirus whereas AIDS is caused by a retrovirus.​

    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