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  • 10th World Water Forum

    Why in the News?

    • The World Bank report, titled “Water for Shared Prosperity,” was released at the 10th World Water Forum in Bali, Indonesia.
      • It underscores the widening gap in access to water resources and services, exacerbated by factors like population growth, urbanization, and climate change.

    Water for Shared Prosperity: Key Highlights of the Report

    • In 2022, 2.2 billion people lacked access to safely managed drinking water services, while 3.5 billion lacked access to safely managed sanitation.
    • Over 800 million people globally are at high risk of drought, with double that number living in flood-prone areas.
    • Low-income countries have seen a regression in access to safe drinking water, with an additional 197 million people lacking access since 2000.
    • Rural-urban access gaps in low-income countries have remained largely unchanged over the last two decades.
    • Hotspots in regions like the Sahel, Southeastern Africa, and South and Central Asia experience the highest water stress.
    • The Democratic Republic of the Congo holds over half of Africa’s total water resources.

    About World Water Forum:

    • It is a large-scale international event that focuses on the discussion and development of solutions to global water-related challenges. 
    • It is held every three years. The first forum took place in took place in Marrakesh, Morocco in March 1997.
    • It is organized by the World Water Council, an international organization.
    • It brings together stakeholders from various sectors including governments, organizations, businesses, and academia to promote awareness, build political commitment, and trigger action on critical water issues at all levels.

    What is the World Water Council (WWC)?

    • The World Water Council was founded in 1996.
    • The idea for the WWC emerged from discussions during the International Water and Sanitation Congress & Exhibition in 1994 and the subsequent Ministerial Conference on Drinking Water and Environmental Sanitation in 1996.
    • WWC’s activities focus on targets related to SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), among others.
    • The Council was established by renowned water specialists and international organizations, including academic institutions, private companies, governments, and NGOs etc.
    • Objective: The primary aim of the Council is to raise awareness about critical water issues at all levels, including the highest decision-making levels, to facilitate efficient conservation, protection, development, planning, management, and use of water resources globally.
    • Membership: The WWC boasts a diverse membership base comprising over 300 member organizations in approximately 50 countries.

    Key Functions and Contributions:

    • World Water Forums:  It is the world’s largest event on water and gathers participants from various sectors to discuss and collaborate on water issues.
    • Policy Influence: The WWC works to influence policy by facilitating discussions among political and economic decision-makers.
    • Research and Advocacy: Through its publications, policy papers, and strategic projects, the WWC fosters greater understanding and awareness of water issues.

    PYQ:

    [2016] The effective management of land and water resources will drastically reduce the human miseries. Explain.

    [2012] If National Water Mission is properly and completely implemented, how will it impact the country?

    1. Part of the water needs of urban areas will be met through recycling of waste water.
    2. The water requirement of coastal cities with inadequate alternative sources of water will be met by adopting appropriate technologies that allow for use of ocean water.
    3. All the rivers of Himalayan origin will be linked to the rivers of peninsular India.
    4. The expenses incurred by farmers for digging bore wells and for installing motors and pump sets to draw groundwater will be completely reimbursed by the Government.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 1 and 2 only

    (c) 3 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

  • Key Highlights of World Migration Report, 2024

    Why in the News?

    The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has recently launched the World Migration Report 2024.

    Back2Basics: International Organization for Migration (IOM)
    Details
    About
    • Originated in 1951 as the Provisional Intergovernmental Committee for the Movement of Migrants from Europe (PICMME) after World War II’s upheavals.
    • In 2016, IOM agreed with the United Nations, becoming a related organization.
    Headquarters Geneva, Switzerland
    Members
    • Currently has 175 Member States and 8 states with Observer status.
    • India became an IOM Member State on 18th June 2008.

    Key Highlights of the Report:

    • Climate Change Impacts on Migration
    • The report highlights a significant increase in global migration due to environmental impacts and climate change, with more than 216 million people projected to be on the move within their countries by 2050.
    • Migration is being used as a strategy to cope with and adapt to the adverse effects of climate change, although its effectiveness varies based on individual circumstances and active involvement of migrants.

    Specific Regional Insights:

    • Africa:
    • Climate change has led to severe weather changes, including decreased rainfall and increased temperatures in North Africa, contributing to migration.
    • Countries like Libya, Algeria, and Morocco have seen migration due to reduced rainfall and increased drought conditions.
    • Asia:
      • In South Asia, particularly Pakistan and Bangladesh, extreme weather events like floods have led to substantial displacement.
      • The 2022 floods in Pakistan resulted in nearly 1.7 million displacements and in Bangladesh, record-breaking floods in 2022 triggered over 1.5 million displacements.
      • In India, strong influence of climate impacts on internal migration from Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.

    Remittances Inflows in India

    • According to the Report, India has consistently been the top recipient of remittances globally. In 2022, India received a record-breaking $111.22 billion in remittances.

    Remittance Inflows:

    • India is way ahead of its closely ranked peers Mexico ($61.1 billion), China ($51 billion), Philippines ($38.05 billion) and France ($30.04 billion).
    • This is the first time any country has crossed the USD 100 billion mark in remittance inflows.
    • The largest contributions to India’s remittances come from the UAE, USA, and Saudi Arabia, reflecting the extensive Indian diaspora in these regions.

    Migration Statistics:

    • With 18 million international migrants residing primarily in the UAE, USA, and Saudi Arabia, India hosts the world’s largest number of international migrants.
    • This large diaspora plays a crucial role in the economic linkage between India and these countries through remittances.
    • India came in 13th as the destination country for immigrants, with 4.48 million.

    PYQ:

    [2015] Discuss the changes in the trends of labour migration within and outside India in the last four decades.

  • What is the New Collective Quantitative Goal?

    Why in the News?

    At the upcoming COP29 in Baku in November this year, Azerbaijan, the primary discussion will center on the New Collective Quantitative Goal (NCQG) for climate finance.

    Recent Climate Conferences and Decisions:

    • 2022 Sharm el-Sheikh Conference: A Loss and Damage Fund was established to assist developing countries in recovering from climate disasters.
    • Dubai Conference: The focus was on the Global Stocktake (GST) of climate actions, acknowledging the need to transition away from fossil fuels and tripling global renewable energy capacity by 2030.

    What is the New Collective Quantitative Goal (NCQG)?

        • All the parties of the Paris Agreement participate and review the implementation of the Agreement and make decisions. CMA is held once a year.
    • This goal will start with a target of at least $100 billion per year, focusing on the requirements and priorities of developing countries.
    • It will replace the previous commitment of USD 100 billion per year that developed nations had pledged in 2009 but never delivered.

    NCQG: A timeline

    • In 2009: The developed countries agreed to provide approximately $30 billion in ‘new and additional’ financial resources to developing countries from 2010 to 2012.
        • Additionally, these countries committed to collectively raising $100 billion annually by 2020 to support climate action in developing countries.
    • In 2015: It was decided to continue this collective goal of mobilizing $100 billion yearly by developed countries up to 2025.
    • A new climate finance target is to be set before 2025, maintaining at least $100 billion per year and considering the needs and priorities of developing countries. This is referred to as the NCQG or the new goal for post-2025.

    Financial Requirements for Effective Climate Action:

    • Current Funding Gaps: The scale of annual climate finance has consistently fallen short of the $100 billion promised by developed countries.
    • Projected Needs: Developing countries require about $6 trillion annually until 2030 to implement their climate action plans, according to a 2021 UN Climate Change report. An updated version of this report is expected to raise this figure even higher.
    • Global Transition Costs: A global transition to a low-carbon economy is estimated to require about $4-6 trillion every year until 2050.
    • Renewable Energy Expansion: Tripling renewable energy capacity, as agreed in Dubai, is estimated to cost $30 trillion until 2030, per the International Renewable Energy Association (IRENA).

    Prospects for Meeting Financial Targets:

    • Realistic Expectations: Discussions are ongoing, with India suggesting a target of at least $1 trillion per year, primarily through grants and concessional finance.
    • Challenges: Developed countries have historically fallen short of even lesser goals, and achieving trillions in finance is seen as ambitious.

    Back2Basics: Global Initiatives for Financing Climate Action

    Established Purpose How it Works
    Green Climate Fund (GCF) 2010 To support developing countries in adaptation and mitigation to counter climate change. Mobilizes funding from developed to developing countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance climate resilience. Operates under the UNFCCC financial mechanism.
    Global Environment Facility (GEF) 1991 To tackle global environmental issues while supporting national sustainable development. Provides grants for projects related to environmental conventions (biodiversity, climate change, international waters, land degradation, ozone layer, organic pollutants). Functions as a financial mechanism for multiple conventions including the UNFCCC.
    Climate Investment Funds (CIF) 2008 To bridge funding and learning gaps for cleaner technology transformations. Offers scaled-up financing to middle-income countries to initiate cleaner technology transformations. Includes funds like the Clean Technology Fund (CTF) and the Strategic Climate Fund (SCF).
    Adaptation Fund 2001 To finance concrete adaptation projects in developing countries party to the Kyoto Protocol. Financed by a share of proceeds from CDM project activities, it supports concrete adaptation projects in vulnerable communities.
    Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF) 2001 To finance projects in adaptation, technology transfer, and various management sectors. Managed by the GEF, supports projects in sectors not directly funded through other funds such as energy, transport, and waste management.
    Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF) 2001 To support the least developed countries (LDCs) in their climate change initiatives. Finances the preparation and implementation of National Adaptation Programmes of Action (NAPAs) which identify priority activities for LDCs to adapt to climate change.
    Carbon Pricing Mechanisms NA To internalize the cost of GHG emissions, incentivizing emission reductions. Involves setting a price on carbon emissions either through carbon taxes or emissions trading schemes (ETS), encouraging businesses to reduce emissions.
    Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Partnership 2016 To enhance cooperation to achieve NDC goals under the Paris Agreement. Facilitates technical and financial support to help countries implement and enhance their NDC commitments for reducing emissions.

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] With reference to the Agreement at the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. The Agreement was signed by all the member countries of the UN, and it will go into effect in 2017.
    2. The Agreement aims to limit the greenhouse gas emissions so that the rise in average global temperature by the end of this century does not exceed 2ÂșC or even 1.5ÂșC above pre-industrial levels.
    3. Developed countries acknowledged their historical responsibility in global warming and committed to donate $ 1000 billion a year from 2020 to help developing countries to cope with climate change.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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

  • IFPMA Report on Antimicrobial Resistance

    Why in the news?

    The International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA) released a report titled “From Resistance to Resilience: Reinforcing the Response to Antimicrobial Resistance,” emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced Antibiotic development.

    Report Highlights: Current State of Antibiotic Development:

    • Weak Pipeline: The current pipeline for developing new antibiotics is described as weak, fragile, and insufficient against growing antimicrobial resistance.
    • AMR Threat: Recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of the greatest global health threats, AMR is linked to around 1.2 million direct deaths and 5 million associated deaths annually.

    What is Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)?

    • Antimicrobials are substances designed to eliminate or suppress the growth of microorganisms.
    • This category encompasses antibiotics, fungicides, antiviral drugs, and agents targeting parasites.
    • AMR occurs when microbes such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi become resistant to antimicrobial treatments to which they were previously susceptible.
    • Microorganisms that develop resistance to antimicrobials are sometimes referred to as “superbugs”.

    Global Status of AMR

    A recent report from the Global Research on Anti-microbial Resistance (GRAM) project found that:

    • In 2019, an estimated 4.95 million people suffered from at least one drug-resistant infection and AMR directly caused 1.27 million deaths.
    • AMR is one of India’s major public health problems, directly contributing to about 30% of deaths due to neonatal sepsis across India.
    • These are due to multidrug-resistant (MDR) hospital-acquired infections in many cases.
    • 30% of the COVID-19 deaths in India could be attributed to our failure to treat the secondary bacterial infections caused by MDR pathogens with the appropriate antibiotics.

    What are the factors that cause AMR? 

    • Over-prescription of Antibiotics: Frequently prescribing antibiotics for conditions that do not require them, such as viral infections, accelerates the emergence of resistance.
    • Incomplete Treatment Courses: Patients not completing their antibiotic courses as prescribed can leave surviving bacteria that adapt to become resistant.
    • Self-Medication: Individuals using antibiotics without a prescription, especially in regions where they are available over the counter, increases misuse and drives resistance.
    • Lack of New Antibiotics: The slow pace of new antibiotic development fails to keep up with the rate of bacterial evolution, reducing effective treatment options.
    • Hospital Settings: Hospitals are critical hotspots for the spread of resistant infections due to the high use of antibiotics and the concentration of vulnerable patients with open wounds, invasive devices, and weakened immune systems.
    • Global Travel: International travel allows for the rapid spread of resistant mutant strains between communities and across borders.

    India’s efforts to combat AMR:

    Description
    National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (NAP-AMR)
    • Launched in 2017, this 5-year plan involves multiple ministries to tackle AMR across human, animal, and environmental sectors.
    • Focuses on enhancing awareness, surveillance, infection prevention, optimizing antimicrobial use, promoting research, and fostering international collaborations.
    New Delhi Declaration on AMR
    • Adopted in 2023 at the G20 Summit.
    • It emphasizes strengthening surveillance, regulating antibiotic sales, and boosting research for new treatments and diagnostics in the South-East Asia Region.
    National Anti-Microbial Resistance Research and Surveillance Network
    • Established under the Indian Council of Medical Research to monitor AMR trends through a network of laboratories across India.
    National Programme on Containment of Antimicrobial Resistance
    • Initiated by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to enhance AMR surveillance, infection control, and antimicrobial stewardship in healthcare facilities.
    Red Line Campaign
    • Started in 2016, it raises awareness about the irrational use of antibiotics.
    • Medicines marked with a red line on their packaging are prescription-only, aiming to reduce misuse and over-the-counter sales.
    National One Health Program for Prevention and Control of Zoonoses
    • Launched in 2019, this program uses a multi-sectoral approach to strengthen responses to zoonotic diseases, including those caused by antibiotic-resistant pathogens.

  • Understanding Water Loss on Venus

    Why in the News?

    Over four billion years ago, Venus had enough water to potentially cover its surface with an ocean approximately 3 km deep, but today, it would remain with only 3 cm.

    • A research by US scientists explain the Non-Thermal Dissociative Recombination (DR) responsible for faster loss of water from Venus.

    About Venus

    • Venus is the second planet from the Sun. It is a terrestrial planet and is the closest in mass and size to its orbital neighbour Earth.
    • Venus is notable for having the densest atmosphere of the terrestrial planets, composed mostly of carbon dioxide with a thick, global sulphuric acid cloud cover.
    • At the surface it has a mean temperature of 464 °C (737 K) and a pressure of 92 times that of Earth’s at sea level.
    • These extreme conditions compress carbon dioxide into a supercritical state close to Venus’s surface.
    • Internally, Venus has a core, mantle, and crust. Venus lacks an internal dynamo, and its weak induced magnetosphere is caused by atmospheric interactions with the solar wind.
    • Venus is one of two planets in the Solar System (the other being Mercury), that have no moons.
    • The rotation of Venus has been slowed and turned against its orbital direction (retrograde) by the currents and drag of its atmosphere.
    • It takes 224.7 Earth days for Venus to complete an orbit around the Sun, and a Venusian solar year is just under two Venusian days long.

    Water Loss on Venus:

    • Venus lost its water primarily due to two factors:
        • Evaporation due to Greenhouse Effect: Its dense atmosphere rich in carbon dioxide, creating a strong greenhouse effect and surface temperatures around 450 degrees Celsius, which prevents water from existing in liquid form.
        • Proximity to the Sun: This leads to the disintegration of water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen in the ionosphere under solar heat and ultraviolet radiation.
    • Mechanism of Water Loss:
    1. Thermal Process: Initially, hydrodynamic escape was significant, where solar heating caused the outer atmosphere to expand, allowing hydrogen to escape into space. This process cooled and slowed about 2.5 billion years ago.
    2. Non-Thermal Process: Focus of recent study; involves hydrogen escaping into space, reducing water formation as oxygen atoms lack hydrogen to bond with.

    Key Research Findings: Non-thermal Dissociative Recombination (DR)

    The discrepancy in water loss rates was addressed by identifying a previously overlooked chemical reaction involving the formyl cation (HCO+).

    • HCO+ dissociative recombination (DR) reaction occurs when HCO+ gains an electron and splits into CO and a hydrogen atom, which then escapes into space.
    • This reaction is responsible for losing out water without evaporation.
    • This reaction was modelled to significantly increase the rate of hydrogen escape, potentially doubling the rate at which Venus lost water.
    • The model suggests that water levels on Venus would have been stable from nearly 2 billion years ago due to the ongoing non-thermal HCO+ DR reaction, yet some water remains today.

    Future Research on Venus

    • Existence of HCO+ Ions: Direct evidence of HCO+ ions in Venus’s atmosphere is still missing. Past missions did not focus on this molecule, and its involvement in water loss was not previously considered crucial.
    • Future Missions: The findings underscore the importance of future Venus missions to investigate the presence of HCO+ in the upper atmosphere, similar to the MAVEN mission to Mars.

    PYQ:

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

    1. Asteroids are small rocky planetoids, while comets are made of ice, dust and rocky 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

  • Phtheirospermum Lushaiorum: Hemiparasite Plant Species named after Lushai Tribe  

    Why in the News?

    • A rare hemi-parasitic terrestrial plant has been found in Phawngpui National Park of Mizoram.
      • It has been named ‘Phtheirospermum Lushaiorum’ after the Lushai tribe of Mizoram, honoring their commitment to biodiversity conservation.

    About  Lushai Tribe

      • Lushai is another tribe under the Kuki-chin group (racially from Mongolia) of tribes.
        • They are commonly known as Mizos.
        • In Tripura there are 5,384 persons (as per 2011 Census).
      • Occupation: They mostly reside in the Jampui Hills area of Tripura and have Jhum Cultivation and hunting of wild animals as their main occupation.
    • Culture and belief:
      • converted to Christianity and still follow Christianity as their religion.
      • Their Cheraw Dance (Bamboo Dance) is quiet famous.

    About Phtheirospermum Lushaiorum

    • This plant lacks a fully developed root system and taps into the sap of host plants through specialized structures known as haustoria.
    • Despite its parasitic nature, it contains chlorophyll and can produce its food, showing some independence from its host.
    • It flowers from July to September, with fruit production occurring from August to October.
    • The plant grows near a popular trekking route in Phawngpui National Park, facing threats from both anthropogenic activities and natural factors.

    Back2Basics: Phawngpui National Park

      • Also known as Blue Mountain National Park, it is one of the two national parks in Mizoram (the other being Murlen NP).
    • Geographical location:
        • Close to the border with Burma (Myanmar).
        • The park overlooks the Chhimtuipui River, which flows toward Burma.
        • The geography of Phawngpui is characterized by its cloud-covered mountain area, which gives it a distinctive blue appearance from a distance.
    • Flora and Fauna:
        • Bird species:Blyth’s tragopan, falcons, sunbirds, dark-rumped swifts, and the Mizoram state bird, Mrs. Hume’s pheasant.
        • Mammals: Mountain goat, slow loris, tiger, leopard, leopard cat, serow, goral, Asiatic black bear, stump-tailed macaque, and capped langur. 
    • Flora: Grassy meadows, orchids, rhododendrons, and bamboo groves.

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] Recently, our scientists have discovered a new and distinct species of banana plant which attains a height of about 11 meters and has orange-coloured fruit pulp. In which part of India has it been discovered?

    (a) Andaman Islands

    (b) Anaimalai Forests

    (c) Maikala Hills

    (d) Tropical rain forests of Northeast

  • National Endangered Species Day, 2024

    Why in the News?

    • National Endangered Species Day is an annual event that strives to raise awareness about the significance of safeguarding endangered species and their habitats.
    • This year, National Endangered Species Day was celebrated on May 17.

    What is National Endangered Species Day?

    • National Endangered Species Day is observed every year on the 3rd Friday of May.
    • This day was co-founded in 2006 by the Endangered Species Coalition and David Robinson.
    • Robinson defines Endangered Species Day as a “worldwide day of action to rescue species and celebrate conservation triumphs”.
    • Theme for 2024: “Celebrate Saving Species”.
    • According to the IUCN Red List Analysis 2020, over 500 land animal species will likely go extinct in the next two decades if current trends continue.

    Flagship species in India that are Endangered and often seen in the News:

    Species

    Conservation Status

    Key Information
    Asian Elephant

     
    • IUCN: Endangered
    • CITES Appendix I;
    • Schedule I (WPA, 1972)
    • Symbol of Heritage: Plays a key role in forest and grassland ecosystems.
    • Threats: Habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching for tusks.
    • Conservation Needs: Sustained efforts are crucial to ensure their survival and maintain biodiversity.
    Ganges River Dolphin
    • IUCN: Endangered
    • CITES: Appendix I;
    • Schedule I (WPA, 1972)
    • Critical Habitat: Found in the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli-Sangu river systems.
    • Challenges: Water extraction, pollution, and river traffic.
    • Population Decline: Less than 2,000 individuals remain in India.
    Bengal Tiger
    • IUCN: Endangered
    • CITES Appendix I;
    • Schedule I (WPA, 1972)
    • Iconic Predator: Represents a significant part of India’s wildlife.
    • Current Status: Numbers are increasing, but threats like poaching and habitat loss persist.
    • Habitat: Found across varied ecosystems, from forests to mangroves.
    Red Panda
    • IUCN: Endangered
    • CITES: Appendix I
    • Schedule I (WPA, 1972)
    • Status: Significant decline due to habitat loss and poaching.
    • Habitat Zones: Found in the eastern Himalayas and parts of Northeast India.
    • Conservation Importance: Serves as an indicator species for the health of the Himalayan forests.
    Asiatic Lion
    • IUCN: Endangered
    • CITES: Appendix I
    • Schedule I (WPA, 1972)
    • Last Refuge: Exclusively found in Gir National Park, Gujarat.
    • Population Challenges: Threats include poaching and accidental deaths from open wells and fences.
    • Conservation Strategies: Involves habitat restoration and stricter anti-poaching laws.
    Nilgiri Tahr
    • IUCN: Endangered
    • Schedule I (WPA, 1972)
    • Mountain Inhabitant: Lives in the mountainous regions of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
    • Population Pressure: Climate change and human interference are major threats.
    • Survival Strategies: Requires focused conservation to stabilise its declining population.
    Lion-tailed Macaque

     

     
    • IUCN: Endangered
    • CITES Appendix I;
    • Schedule I (WPA, 1972)
    • Distinct Appearance: Notable for its silver mane, found in the Western Ghats.
    • Critical Decline: Population affected by habitat fragmentation and human interaction.
    • Behavioural Changes: Adjustments in their natural behaviours due to human activities are concerning.
    Great Indian Bustard (GIB)
    • IUCN: Critically Endangered
    • CITES Appendix I;
    • Schedule I (WPA, 1972)
    • IBs are the largest among India’s four bustard species and are considered flagship birds of grasslands.
    • Habitat reduced to just 10 per cent.
    • Overhead power transmission, poor vision, windmills, noise pollution, landscape changes, and alterations in cultivation patterns pose significant threats to GIBs.
    Golden Langur
    • IUCN: Endangered
    • CITES Appendix I;
    • Schedule I (WPA, 1972)
    • Approximately 7,396 Golden Langur (Trachypithecus geei) in India as per a census conducted by Assam Forest Department.
    Hangul (Kashmir Stag)
    • IUCN: Critically Endangered
    • CITES: Appendix I;
    • Kashmir’s Hangul, a shy and endangered species of deer, has exhibited a robust breeding season, suggesting a hopeful future for its population in the Dachigam National Park.
    • The Hanguls population could surpass 300 this spring, marking the first time in over 30 years.

     

    PYQ:

    [20I2] Which one of the following groups of animals belongs to the category of endangered species?

    (a) Great Indian Bustard, Musk Deer, Red Panda and Asiatic Wild Ass

    (b) Kashmir Stag, Cheetal, Blue Bull and Great Indian Bustard

    (c) Snow Leopard, Swamp Deer, Rhesus Monkey and Saras (Crane)

    (d) Lion-tailed Macaque, Blue Bull, Hanuman Langur and Cheetal

  • Going glacier gone: How Venezuela lost its last glacier, why this matters?

    Why in the News?

    Venezuela has likely become the first country to lose all its glaciers, with its last Humboldt glacier melting faster than anticipated. While scientists projected it to last another decade, its rapid melting exceeded expectations.

    Background:

    • Venezuela was home to six glaciers about 5,000 meters above sea level in the Andes mountains.
    • By 2011, five of them had vanished. Scientists expected the Humboldt glacier to last another decade.

    What are glaciers?

    • Glaciers are large masses of ice that form on land over long periods through the accumulation and compaction of snow. They flow like slow rivers and typically develop in regions with near-freezing temperatures, significant snowfall, and minimal summer melting.
    • According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), they usually exist and form in areas where mean annual temperatures reach near the freezing point; winter precipitation leads to significant snow accumulations; and temperatures throughout the remaining year do not cause the complete loss of the previous winter’s snow accumulation.

    Why are Glaciers disappearing?

    • Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The burning of fossil fuels since the Industrial Revolution have released large amounts of GHGs like carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere.
    • Heat Trapping: The greenhouse gases act as a blanket, trapping heat in the atmosphere. While they allow sunlight to pass through, they prevent the heat from escaping back into space, leading to a rise in global temperatures.
      • The global average temperature has increased by at least 1.1 degrees Celsius since 1880 due to the skyrocketing emissions of GHGs in recent decades.
    • Consequences of Temperature Rise: The temperature rise has resulted in devastating consequences such as more frequent and intense heatwaves, floods, droughts, and a rise in sea levels.
    • Accelerated Melting: Glaciers, like ice cubes exposed to heat, are melting at accelerated rates due to the warmer temperatures caused by global warming.
    • Natural Climate Phenomena: Natural climate phenomena like El Nino can exacerbate glacier melting by causing abnormal warming of surface waters, as observed in the case of the Humboldt glacier in Venezuela.

    What are the impacts of Glacier Loss?

    • Freshwater Source: Glaciers are crucial sources of freshwater, especially during hot and dry periods, providing water for local communities, plants, and animals. Their disappearance would increase dependence on sporadic rainfall for freshwater supply.
    • Temperature Regulation: Glacial runoff helps regulate downstream water temperatures, particularly keeping them cooler. This is essential for many aquatic species that require cold water temperatures to survive, impacting the entire ecosystem.
    • Ecosystem Impact: Glacier loss directly affects aquatic species, disrupting the food web and potentially leading to declines in biodiversity.
    • Contribution to Sea Level Rise: Melting glaciers contribute to rising sea levels, although smaller glaciers like Venezuela’s Humboldt glacier may not substantially impact sea levels.
    • Cultural Impact: The loss of glaciers has significant cultural implications, particularly for communities where glaciers are part of their cultural identity. Activities such as mountaineering and tourism, which rely on glaciers, would be affected.
    • Tourism and Recreation: Glaciers are often major tourist attractions, drawing visitors for activities like mountaineering and sightseeing. The disappearance of glaciers would impact tourism and recreational activities in affected regions.

    Way Forward: 

    • International Cooperation: Foster collaboration among countries to tackle climate change on a global scale. Support international agreements such as the Paris Agreement, aimed at limiting global warming and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
    • Protect and Preserve Glacier Areas: Establish and enforce conservation measures to protect glacier regions from further degradation. This can involve creating protected areas, implementing zoning regulations, and promoting sustainable tourism practices.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Bring out the relationship between the shrinking Himalayan glaciers and the symptoms of climate change in the Indian sub-continent. (UPSC IAS/2014)

  • Indian manufacturing needs more sophistication: Finance Minister

    Why in the News?

    In a recent statement, the Finance Minister highlighted the pressing need for sophistication in India’s manufacturing sector to drive economic growth and competitiveness.

    • The sophisticated manufacturing sector provides a conducive environment to enhance the efficiency of producing goods and services.

    What is the current state of Indian Manufacturing?

    • India’s manufacturing sector’s Gross Value Added (GVA) as a percentage of GDP has shown an upward trend (since 2014), currently hovering around 18%. There is a consensus that to compete on a global scale, Indian manufacturing needs to evolve and embrace sophistication in its processes, technologies, and products.
    • India’s Dependency Ratio: The dependency ratio is a measure that compares the number of dependents (people who are either too young or too old to work) to the working-age population.
      • According to the Economic Survey 2018-19, India’s Demographic Dividend will peak around 2041, when the share of working-age,i.e. 20-59 years, population is expected to hit 59%.

    Importance of Sophistication in Manufacturing:

    • Leveraging the Demographic Dividend: India’s young population and low dependency ratio offer a significant advantage in terms of labor force and consumption. To capitalize on this demographic dividend, there is a strong focus on ramping up skills in the Indian workforce through initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY).
    • Enhancing Productivity and Quality: Embracing sophistication is crucial for enhancing productivity, quality, and competitiveness in the global market. By investing in technology, automation, and research and development, manufacturers can improve efficiency and deliver high-quality products.
    • Increasing Share in Global Value Chains: To increase India’s share in global manufacturing and value chains, the government is considering providing policy support. This will help reduce dependence on imports and make India more Self-reliant (Atmanirbhar).
    • Attracting Investments: Sophistication in manufacturing can attract significant investments from global companies looking to reduce their dependence on China. According to a Capgemini Research Institute report, 65% of senior executives in the U.S. and Europe plan to increase manufacturing investments significantly in India.
    • Unlocking Opportunities in Specific Sectors: Sophistication in manufacturing can help unlock opportunities in sectors such as food spending, financial services, and consumer markets. By 2031, India’s consumer market is projected to double, presenting a $2.9 trillion opportunity.

    What are the Challenges hindering the growth of the Sophisticated Manufacturing sector?

    • Inadequate infrastructure: Lack of reliable power supply, poor connectivity, and limited access to advanced technologies. Difficulty in obtaining credit, especially for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), to invest in technology upgradation.
    • Skill gaps: Shortage of skilled workers trained in modern manufacturing techniques and technologies
    • Weak Intellectual Property Rights: Insufficient protection of patents, trademarks, and copyrights, discouraging innovation
    • Regulatory hurdles: Complex bureaucratic processes, lack of clarity in policies, and inconsistent implementation

     Government Initiatives and Support

    • Make in India Initiative: Launched in 2014, the program aims to transform India into a global manufacturing hub by facilitating investment, fostering innovation, building best-in-class infrastructure, and making doing business easier. It focuses on 25 sectors, including automobiles, aviation, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals.
    • National Manufacturing Policy: Introduced in 2011, it aims to increase the share of manufacturing in GDP to 25% and create 100 million jobs by 2022. It focuses on enhancing skill development, promoting innovation, and creating a favorable business environment.
    • Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme: It provides financial incentives to boost domestic manufacturing and attract investments in key sectors such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, automobiles, and telecom. It has helped reduce import dependence and increase exports in sectors like telecom and mobile manufacturing

    Way Forward:

    • Role of Financial Institutions: By providing access to capital, facilitating technology adoption, and offering financial expertise, they can empower manufacturers to invest in sophistication and drive growth.
    • Enhanced Strategies: Manufacturers need to prioritize investments in technology, automation, research and development, and skill development to enhance sophistication. Collaborating with financial institutions for tailored financial solutions can help accelerate this transformation.
    • Competitive Outlook: As Indian manufacturing embraces sophistication, it is poised to unlock new opportunities, improve competitiveness, and contribute significantly to the country’s economic growth. By aligning with the Finance Minister’s vision, the sector can chart a path towards sustainable success in the global market.

    Conclusion: The Finance Minister’s call for sophistication in Indian manufacturing underscores the need for a strategic shift towards innovation, efficiency, and quality. With concerted efforts from stakeholders, including the government, financial institutions, and manufacturers, India can elevate its manufacturing sector to new heights of success and competitiveness.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Demographic Dividend in India will remain only theoretical unless our manpower becomes more educated, aware, skilled and creative.” What measures have been taken by the government to enhance the capacity of our population to be more productive and employable? (UPSC IAS/2016)

  • 50 year of Pokhran-I: Why India conducted its first Nuclear Tests?

    Why in the News?

    In the year 2024, India’s Pokhran-I have completed 50 years of its tests. The present variation in adopting Nuclear policies (especially Russia and China) around the world, reminds us of the historic Pokhran tests of 1974 by the Indian Government that were held amid secrecy.

    Background:

    • Post-World War II, new global alliances and alignments emerged amidst the Cold War between the US and USSR.
    • The Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty (NPT) signed in 1968, aimed to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons. It defined nuclear-weapon states and non-nuclear states, but India objected to its discriminatory nature towards non-nuclear states.
    • India refused to sign the NPT due to its failure to address India’s concerns about the discriminatory nature of the treaty, particularly regarding non-nuclear states’ obligations.

    Why did India choose to conduct Nuclear Tests? 

    • India viewed the NPT as discriminatory towards non-nuclear states like itself, leading to its decision to conduct nuclear tests independently.
    • Indian scientists, notably Homi J Bhabha and Vikram Sarabhai, laid the groundwork for nuclear energy in India. The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) was established in 1954.
    • Changes in leadership post-1960s, coupled with conflicts with China and Pakistan, influenced India’s decision to pursue nuclear capabilities. China’s nuclear tests in 1964 also played a role.

    How did Pokhran-I happen?

    • In Secrecy and Uncertainty: India conducted the nuclear test at Pokhran in 1974 without prior announcement, even amidst internal uncertainty among key decision-makers.
      • Operation Smiling Buddha (MEA designation: Pokhran-I) was the code name of India’s first successful nuclear weapon test on 18 May 1974.
      • The test demonstrated India’s nuclear capabilities and its ability to defend itself, though India chose not to weaponize immediately. The choice of Buddha Jayanti for the test date carried symbolic significance.
    • By Autonomous Approval: Despite opposition from some advisers, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi gave the go-ahead for the test, signaling India’s resolve. 

    What was the impact of the Pokhran-I Test?

    • Global Criticism: India faced criticism and sanctions from various countries, including the US, following the tests. The US enacted the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Act in 1978, halting nuclear assistance to India.
      • Despite international criticism, India asserted itself as a nuclear-capable nation, paving the way for future developments like Pokhran-II in 1998.
    • Diplomatic Goals: India sought acceptance as a responsible nuclear power and aimed to join international groups like the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), facing resistance from some countries, notably China.
      • India’s nuclear tests marked a significant milestone in its defense and foreign policy, shaping its stance on nuclear issues and its position in global nuclear politics.

    Way forward for being in the NSG group:

    Engage in Diplomatic Outreach:

    • Strengthen bilateral relations with NSG member countries.
    • Engage in diplomatic dialogue to address concerns and build consensus on India’s membership.

    Demonstrate Commitment to Nonproliferation:

    • Continue adhering to nonproliferation norms and standards.
    • Showcase India’s responsible nuclear behaviour and track record in nuclear security.

    Mains PYQ

    Q With growing energy needs should India keep on expanding its nuclear energy programme? Discuss the facts and fears associated with nuclear energy. (250 Words, 15 Marks) (UPSC IAS/2018)