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GS Paper: GS3

  • MethaneSAT: Revolutionizing Methane Emission Tracking

     

    MethaneSAT

    In the news

    • MethaneSAT, the latest addition to the space technology arsenal, promises to revolutionize the tracking and measurement of methane emissions globally.
    • Launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon9 rocket, this innovative satellite is set to provide unparalleled insights into methane emissions, aiding in the fight against climate change.

    Methane Emissions

     

    • Methane, organic compound composed of carbon and four hydrogen atoms (CH4).
    • Second-biggest anthropogenic contributor to global warming after carbon dioxide, 80 times more potent.
    • Global Warming Potential (GWP) measures warming caused by substance relative to carbon dioxide over a century.
    • Methane GWP100: 28, nitrous oxide 265, sulphur hexafluoride 23,500.
    • Short-lived climate pollutant, breaks down in a few years unlike carbon dioxide.
    • Sources: Cattle-farming, landfills, wastewater treatment, rice cultivation, industrial processes.
    • Energy, agriculture, waste sectors primary emitters, responsible for 30% of global warming.
    • Livestock emissions, including manure and gastroenteric releases, account for 32% of human-caused emissions.
    • Global Methane Pledge: Launched at UN COP26 climate conference in Glasgow. Over 90 countries signed, led by United States and European Union (India not signed up).

     Unraveling MethaneSAT

    • MethaneSAT is an initiative of the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), in collaboration with Harvard University, the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, and the New Zealand Space Agency.
    • Equipped with a high–resolution infrared sensor and a spectrometer, MethaneSAT can detect methane concentrations as small as three parts per billion.
    • With a wide-camera view of about 200 km by 200 km, MethaneSAT can identify both small and large emitters, filling critical data gaps.

    Key Features

    • Data Accessibility: MethaneSAT will provide its data for free in near real-time, empowering stakeholders and regulators to take timely action to curb methane emissions.
    • Cloud Computing and AI: Google’s cloud-computing and AI technology will be used to analyze the vast amount of data collected by MethaneSAT, ensuring efficient processing and interpretation.

    Significance of Methane Emission Monitoring

    • Greenhouse Gas Impact: Methane, though invisible, is a potent greenhouse gas and a major contributor to global warming, second only to carbon dioxide.
    • Health Hazards: Methane emissions also contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, posing serious health risks and causing premature deaths.
    • Fossil Fuel Operations: The bulk of human-caused methane emissions stem from fossil fuel operations, making it imperative to monitor and reduce these emissions.

    Implications  

    • Global Impact: The launch of MethaneSAT aligns with the growing momentum for stringent methane management policies worldwide.
    • Transparency: Publicly available data from MethaneSAT will hold governments and corporations accountable for their methane emission reduction commitments.
    • Behavioral Change Challenges: While the data from MethaneSAT can drive awareness, behavioral changes among polluters are not guaranteed, highlighting the need for complementary regulatory measures.

    Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2019:

    Q.Consider the following:

    1. Carbon monoxide
    2. Methane
    3. Ozone
    4. Sulphur dioxide

    Which of the above are released into atmosphere due to the burning of crop/biomass residue?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2, 3 and 4 only

    (c) 1 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”pty7uzivfd” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your answers here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

  • INS Jatayu: India’s new Naval Base in Lakshadweep

    In the news

    • The Naval Detachment Minicoy will transition into INS Jatayu, an upgraded naval base, symbolizing India’s commitment to bolstering security infrastructure in the strategic Lakshadweep Islands.
    • This development underscores the Indian Navy’s strategic imperative to fortify its presence in the region.

    About INS Jatayu

    • Upgrade to Naval Base: INS Jatayu will be elevated to a fully-fledged naval base, equipped with essential infrastructure such as an airfield and housing facilities.
    • Strategic Location: Situated amidst vital Sea Lines of Communications (SLOCs), the Lakshadweep Islands hold immense strategic importance, serving as a gateway to the Indian Ocean.
    • Enhanced Operational Capability: The transformation of Naval Detachment Minicoy into INS Jatayu signifies a significant augmentation of the Navy’s operational capabilities in the region.
    • Geopolitical Dynamics: Against the backdrop of evolving geopolitical dynamics, particularly China’s increasing influence in the Indian Ocean Region, the establishment of INS Jatayu assumes greater significance.

    minicoy jatayu

    A Strategic Asset: Lakshadweep Archipelago

    • Geographical Context: Lakshadweep, comprising 36 islands, lies strategically between the Indian mainland and the Maldives, serving as a vital link in India’s maritime security architecture.
    • Maritime Highways: Minicoy, in particular, is strategically positioned along key maritime highways, including the Eight Degree Channel and the Nine Degree Channel.

    Future Prospects and Challenges

    • Operational Implications: The establishment of INS Jatayu will bolster the Navy’s operational reach and responsiveness, enabling effective anti-piracy and anti-narcotics operations in the western Arabian Sea.
    • Ecological Considerations: The fragile ecology of the island poses challenges for infrastructure development, necessitating meticulous planning and environmental clearances.
    • Operational Expansion: The proposed airfield at INS Jatayu will facilitate operations for various aircraft, bolstering the Navy’s surveillance capabilities and extending its operational reach.

  • ADITI Scheme to Fund India’s Defence Start-ups

    In the news

    • The recently launched ADITI scheme by the Union Minister of Defence marks a new era in promoting innovations in critical and strategic defence technologies.

    About ADITI Scheme

    • Scheme Objective: Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI) is aimed at fostering innovations in critical and strategic defence technologies.
    • Development Goals: The scheme targets the development of approximately 30 deep-tech critical and strategic technologies within the proposed timeframe.
    • Eligibility Criteria: Start-ups can avail grant-in-aid of up to Rs 25 crore for their research, development, and innovation efforts in defence technology.
    • Budget Allocation: ADITI is backed by a budget of Rs 750 crore spanning from 2023-24 to 2025-26.
    • Framework: It operates within the iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) framework under the Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence.

    Features of the Scheme

    • Bridge-building Initiative: ADITI aims to establish a ‘Technology Watch Tool’ to bridge the gap between the modern Armed Forces’ expectations and requirements and the capabilities of the defence innovation ecosystem.
    • Incentives for Innovators: iDEX has been expanded to iDEX Prime, offering increased assistance from Rs 1.5 crore to Rs 10 crore, motivating young innovators to participate.
    • National Transformation: Initiatives like ADITI, iDEX, and iDEX Prime are instrumental in propelling India towards becoming a knowledge society.
    • Youth Empowerment: The scheme aims to nurture youth innovation, propelling the country forward in the realm of technology.

  • What are Cavum Clouds?

    cavum clouds

    In the news

    • Recently, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) shared mesmerizing images of Cavum clouds, also known as “hole-punch clouds” or “fallstreak holes,” as observed from space.

    What are Cavum Clouds?

    • Formation Process: Cavum clouds are formed when airplanes traverse through layers of altocumulus clouds, which are mid-level clouds containing supercooled water droplets (water below freezing temperature but still in liquid form).
    • Adiabatic Expansion: As the aircraft moves through, a phenomenon called adiabatic expansion can occur, causing the water droplets to freeze into ice crystals.
    • Creation of Holes: These ice crystals eventually become too heavy and fall out of the cloud layer, resulting in the formation of a hole in the clouds.
    • Steep Angle Formation: Cavum clouds are typically formed when planes pass through at a relatively steep angle.

    About Altocumulus Clouds

    Details
    Appearance Altocumulus clouds are mid-level clouds characterized by white or gray patches or layers.
    Formation They form between 2,000 to 7,000 meters (6,500 to 23,000 feet) above sea level.
    Composition Composed of water droplets and occasionally ice crystals.
    Shape Usually appear as rounded masses or rolls.
    Weather Patterns Often indicate fair weather, but can also precede thunderstorms or cold fronts.
    Optical Effects They can create a halo effect around the sun or moon when thin enough.
    Classification Altocumulus clouds are classified as “middle-level clouds” (based on their altitude in the atmosphere).
    Associated Types Altocumulus castellanus: Towering altocumulus clouds indicating instability and potential storminess.

  • Is India finally entering stage II of its nuclear programme?

    In the news

    PM Modi marked a historic moment in India’s nuclear power journey by overseeing the commencement of core-loading at the indigenous Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) situated in Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu. This event signifies a significant stride forward in India’s ambitious nuclear power program, heralding the onset of stage II.

    Context:

    • As of 2024, nuclear power contributes to around 3.11% of India’s total power generation.
    • Nuclear power remains the fifth-largest source of electricity in India, following coal, gas, hydroelectricity, and wind power.

    History of India’s Nuclear Power Program

    India’s journey in nuclear technology dates back to its independence in 1947. Here is a brief history of India’s Nuclear Power Program:

    1. 1948: India established the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC), marking its entry into the nuclear age.
    2. 1950s: Homi Bhabha, the founding director of India’s nuclear program, formulated the three-stage nuclear power program to establish a self-sufficient nuclear power industry.
    3. 1969: The first Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR), the 40 MW Tarapur Atomic Power Station, was commissioned, marking the operationalization of Stage 1 of the nuclear power program.
    4. 1974: India conducted its first nuclear test, Pokhran-I, demonstrating its nuclear capabilities.
    5. Late 1970s – Early 1980s: India embarked on developing fast breeder reactors (FBRs) as part of Stage 2 of its nuclear program to enhance fuel efficiency and self-sufficiency.
    6. 1990s – 2000s: India focused on building a nuclear arsenal and delivery systems capable of military deployment after conducting further nuclear tests in 1998.
    7. Present: India possesses both nuclear weapons and an extensive nuclear fuel cycle capability, with ongoing developments in thorium-based reactors as part of Stage 3 of its nuclear power program.

    About India’s 3-stage Nuclear Power Program

    Description Timeline
    Stage 1 Relies on pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWRs) using natural uranium as fuel. Initiated in the 1950s;

    Operational since the 1960s
    Stage 2 Focuses on developing fast breeder reactors (FBRs) using plutonium-239 produced in Stage 1. Initiated in the 1970s;

    Development phase
    Stage 3 Involves the development of thorium-based reactors utilizing India’s significant thorium reserves. Initiated in the late 1980s/early 1990s;

    Research & Development phase

     

    Do you know?

    • The two principal natural isotopes are uranium-235 (which comprises 0.7% of natural uranium), which is fissile, and uranium-238 (99.3% of natural uranium), which is fissionable by fast neutrons and is fertile, meaning that it becomes fissile after absorbing one neutron.
    • All uranium isotopes are radioactive. U-239 is much more so than the far more common U-238 though, its half-life is about 23 minutes compared to four billion years! U-239 soon undergoes beta decay to Np-239.
    • Plutonium is created from uranium in nuclear reactors. Plutonium-239 is used to make nuclear weapons. Pu-239 and Pu-240 are byproducts of nuclear reactor operations and nuclear bomb explosions.

    What is Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR)?

    • The PFBR is a machine that produces more nuclear fuel than it consumes. Its core-loading event is being hailed as a “milestone” because the operationalization of the PFBR will mark the start of stage II of India’s three-stage nuclear power program.
      • Previously, India used Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) and Natural Uranium-238 (U-238), which contain minuscule amounts of U-235, as the fissile material.
    • It’s working:
      • Basically, in the process of Nuclear Fission, the nucleus of an atom absorbs a neutron, destabilizes, and breaks into two while releasing some energy. If the destabilized nucleus releases more neutrons, the reactor’s facilities will attempt to use them to instigate more fission reactions.
      • However, the heavy water in PHWR, the water molecules containing the deuterium isotope of hydrogen – slows neutrons released by one fission reaction enough to be captured by other U-238 and U-235 nuclei and cause new fission.
        • This heavy water is then pressurized to keep it from boiling to produce plutonium-239 (Pu-239) and energy.
    • Significance of using PFBR:
      • Only U-235, not U-238, can sustain a chain reaction but it is consumed fully in stage I. In stage II, India will use Pu-239 together with U-238 in the PFBR to produce energy, U-233, and more Pu-239.
      • Liquid sodium serves as the primary coolant, facilitating heat transfer and electricity generation through secondary circuits.

    Why was the PFBR delayed?

    • Prolonged delays: The PFBR project encountered prolonged delays and cost overruns, attributed to technical complexities and logistical hurdles. Sanctions imposed against India following the ‘Smiling Buddha’ nuclear test in 1974 disrupted the project, necessitating alterations in fuel type and operational parameters.
    • Lack of Resources:
      • The retirement of experienced personnel involved in the project, coupled with delays in decision-making processes, contributed to project setbacks.
      • Escalating costs, reaching ₹6,800 crore by 2019, underscored the financial strain and administrative shortcomings plaguing the project.
    • Procurement Issues: Audit reports revealed procurement inefficiencies, with delays averaging 158 days per order, exacerbating project timelines and costs.
    • Regulatory Imperatives: Addressing concerns over safety and regulatory oversight remains imperative to ensure public confidence and operational integrity.

    Way Forward and Future Prospects:

    • Usage of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): SMR designs have a maximum capacity of 300 MW, require less land, and accommodate more safety features. Several countries are developing SMRs to complement conventional [facilities] since SMRs can be installed at reduced cost and time by repurposing.
    • Stage II Expansion: The PFBR’s 500 MWe capacity sets the stage for future FBR projects, aligning with India’s energy diversification goals and decarbonization initiatives. Today nuclear power has a new lease of life thanks to the pressure on India to decarbonise, reduce its import of fossil fuels, and give its renewables sector some breathing space.
      • In 2019, the DAE proposed building 4 more fast breeder reactors (FBRs) of 600 MWe capacity each – 2 in Kalpakkam in 2021 and two in 2025, with sites to be selected.

    Conclusion

    • As India navigates the complexities of nuclear power development, the PFBR stands as a testament to technological prowess and strategic foresight.
    • While challenges persist, the trajectory of stage II underscores India’s commitment to leveraging nuclear energy for sustainable development and energy security.
    • With continued innovation and regulatory reform, India is poised to realize its vision of a robust and self-reliant nuclear energy ecosystem.

    Try this Question from CSE Mains 2018:

    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)

  • Recently awarded GI Tags

    gi tag

    In the news

    • In the past week, many Geographical Indications (GI) Tags were awarded across the states of India.

    About GI Tag

    • A GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
    • Nodal Agency: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
    • India, as a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 w.e.f. September 2003.
    • GIs have been defined under Article 22 (1) of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement.
    • The tag stands valid for 10 years.

    Recently Awarded GI Tags

    [1] Narasapur Crochet Lace Craft:

    Details
    Technique Handcrafted crochet lace-making using fine threads
    Design Intricate patterns and motifs inspired by nature and traditional motifs
    Uniqueness Known for delicate and intricate designs, used in sarees, dress materials, and home decor
    Economic Impact Provides livelihood to local artisans, enhances market value, protects against imitation
    Recognition GI tag promotes cultural heritage, supports economic empowerment of artisans

     

    [2] Mukha Shilpa of Majuli:

    Details
    Origin Majuli, Assam, the world’s largest river island
    Artform Traditional mask-making, also known as Mukha Shilpa
    Material Made from eco-friendly materials like bamboo, clay, and cloth
    Uniqueness Masks depict mythological characters, deities, and animals, preserving Assamese culture
    Cultural Significance Used in traditional Sattriya dance forms, rituals, and festivals
    Economic Impact GI tag promotes tourism, empowers local artisans, supports conservation efforts
    Conservation Efforts Recognition boosts efforts to preserve and promote this ancient art form

     

    [3] Traditional Tribal Attire ‘Risa’:

    Details
    Origin Tripura, northeastern state known for rich tribal culture
    Attire Traditional attire worn by Tripuri tribal women
    Fabric Handwoven cotton fabric with vibrant colors and intricate designs
    Uniqueness Unique weaving techniques and motifs representing tribal identity
    Cultural Heritage Integral part of Tripuri culture, worn during festivals and ceremonies
    Economic Impact GI tag enhances market visibility, supports livelihoods of weavers
    Preservation Efforts Recognition promotes preservation and revival of traditional weaving techniques

     

    [4] Riyawan Garlic (Madhya Pradesh):

    Details
    Origin Riyawan village in Ratlam district, Madhya Pradesh
    Variety Special type of garlic known for unique taste, aroma, and medicinal properties
    Cultivation Grown organically in fertile soil and favorable climate
    Uniqueness Distinct flavor and pungency, popular in culinary uses and Ayurvedic medicine
    Health Benefits Rich in antioxidants, believed to have medicinal properties for various ailments
    Economic Impact GI tag boosts local agriculture, provides economic opportunities to farmers
    Quality Assurance Recognition ensures authenticity and quality, protects against imitation

     

    [5] ‘Chandi Tarakasi’ or Silver Filigree:

    Details
    Origin Cuttack, Odisha, renowned for centuries-old silver filigree craftsmanship
    Craftsmanship Intricate art of twisting and curling thin silver wires to create delicate patterns and designs
    Utility Used in jewelry, utensils, decorative items, and souvenirs
    Uniqueness Unique designs reflecting Odia culture and heritage, passed down through generations
    Artistic Value Prized for craftsmanship and artistic appeal
    Economic Impact GI tag enhances market value, supports local artisans, promotes preservation of cultural heritage
    Cultural Heritage Recognition promotes preservation and continuation of traditional art form

     

    Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2018:

    Q.India enacted The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 in order to comply with the obligations to-

    (a) ILO

    (b) IMF

    (c) UNCTAD

    (d) WTO

     

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”2u8zuekcwj” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your responses here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

  • India’s first National Dolphin Research Centre finally a reality

    In the news

    • The inauguration of the National Dolphin Research Centre (NDRC) in Patna marks a significant step towards the conservation of the Gangetic Dolphin.
    • The NDRC aims to facilitate in-depth studies on various aspects of Gangetic dolphins, including behavior, survival skills, food habits, and mortality factors.
    • Led by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, this pioneering institute promises to advance scientific understanding and foster conservation efforts for this iconic species.

    Key Facts about Gangetic Dolphin

    Details
    Discovery Platanista gangetica also known as the “Tiger of the Ganges,” was officially discovered in 1801.
    Habitat Historically distributed in major river systems of India, Nepal, and Bangladesh, including the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli-Sangu.
    Features
    • Essentially blind, hunts by emitting ultrasonic sounds.
    • Frequently found alone or in small groups, usually with a calf.
    • Females larger, give birth once every 2-3 years.
    Importance
    • Indicator of river ecosystem health.
    • Designated National Aquatic Animal (2009) and State Aquatic Animal of Assam.
    Major Threats
    • Unintentional killing in fishing gear.
    • Poaching for dolphin oil.
    • Habitat destruction due to development and pollution.
    Protection Status
    • IUCN: Endangered
    • CITES: Appendix I
    • CMS: Appendix I
    • Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972: Schedule I
    Government Initiatives

    Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2015:

    Which one of the following is the national aquatic animal of India?

    (a) Saltwater crocodile
    (b) Olive ridley turtle
    (c) Gangetic dolphin
    (d) Gharial

     

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”981av4h59u” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your answers here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

  • Chakshu Platform launched against Spam Calls

    In the news

    • The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) introduced Chakshu, a new platform aimed at enabling telecom users to report fraud or spam callers.

    Chakshu Platform

    • Chakshu (meaning eyes), accessible at sancharsaathi.gov.in/sfc, empowers citizens to proactively report suspicious communications, as announced by the DoT.
    • The government will collaborate with private firms like Truecaller to improve the functionality of the platform.
    • The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is also working on building an app for the ‘Chakshu’ platform.

    Features of the platform

    • Reporting Options: Users can report various types of frauds, including those related to bank accounts, payment wallets, SIM cards, gas and electricity connections, KYC updates, impersonation, and sextortion.
    • Enhanced Reporting Mechanism: Chakshu offers a comprehensive mechanism for reporting fraudulent activities, ensuring that telecom users can address a wide range of concerns.

  • Plans for Non-Lapsable Defence Modernization Fund put on hold

    In the news

    • The Ministry of Defence (MoD) had informed Parliament recently a separate mechanism by the Ministry of Finance in consultation with the MoD to explore a special dispensation to operationalize a “Non-lapsable Defence Modernisation Fund” because the non-lapsable pool has drawbacks as it affects parliamentary scrutiny and accountability.

    About Non-Lapsable Defence Modernisation Fund (DMF): 

    • The DMF aims to create a dedicated pool of funds that carry over from year to year, ensuring that unutilized funds are retained for future defence modernisation initiatives. Currently, defence funding in India operates on a yearly basis, with unspent funds being returned at the end of each fiscal year.
    • The dedicated Modernisation Fund is intended to supplement regular budgetary allocations and provide certainty in funding for various defence capability development and infrastructure projects.

    Recommendation by XV Finance Commission

    • The 15th Finance Commission proposed a dedicated Modernisation Fund for Defence and Internal Security.
    • It said the Union may constitute in the Public Account of India, a dedicated non-lapsable fund, Modernisation Fund for Defence and Internal Security (MFDIS).

    About the Public Account of India

    • The Public Account of India was constituted by Article 266(2) of the Indian Constitution which states that “All other public moneys received by or on behalf of the Government of India or the Government of a State shall be credited to the public account of India or the public account of the State, as the case may be.”
    • These funds are used to manage transactions where the government serves as a banker, such as provident funds, small savings, and other deposits. 
    • The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) is responsible for auditing all expenditures from the Public Account of India.
    • Withdrawal or utilization of money can only occur for specific purposes authorized by law or parliamentary approval, ensuring proper allocation and utilization of funds.

     Need for Non-Lapsable Funds:

    • Addressing Budgetary Limitations: Yearly budget allocations lead to the surrender of unutilized funds, hindering defense modernization efforts.
    • Creating Certainty: Non-lapsable funds offer certainty in funding availability, promoting stability and continuity in modernization initiatives.
    • Enhancing Flexibility: These funds provide flexibility for addressing unforeseen contingencies and promoting long-term planning.

    Significance of Non-Lapsable Funds:

    • Certainty and Continuity: Non-lapsable funds offer assurance of funding for defence modernisation, eliminating the need for frequent requests for additional funds and ensuring continuity in project execution.
    • Flexibility: These funds provide flexibility in utilization, allowing for the allocation of resources to unforeseen requirements or contingencies that may arise during the year.
    • Long-term Planning: By allowing funds to carry over across fiscal years, non-lapsable funds facilitate long-term planning for defence modernization projects, promoting systematic and strategic development.

    Challenges and Considerations

    • Parliamentary Scrutiny: Establishing a non-lapsable fund may raise concerns about reduced parliamentary scrutiny and accountability over defense spending.
    • Operational Modalities: Determining the sources of funding and operational modalities for the DMF require careful consideration to ensure effectiveness and transparency.
    • Interagency Coordination: Coordination between the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Finance is essential for the successful implementation of the fund.

    Conclusion

    • The proposal for a Non-Lapsable Defence Modernisation Fund represents a proactive approach to addressing the challenges associated with defence funding in India.
    • While the concept offers several potential benefits, its implementation requires careful deliberation and collaboration between key stakeholders to ensure accountability, transparency, and optimal utilization of resources in support of national security objectives.

    Try this PYQ from CSP 2014:

    Q.With reference to Union Budget, which of the following, is/are covered under Non-Plan Expenditure?

    1. Defence-expenditure
    2. Interest payments
    3. Salaries and pensions
    4. Subsidies

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1, 2, 3 and 4

    (d) None

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”299adksz0k” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your answers here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

  • Possible Uptick in Hangul Population in Kashmir

    hangul

    In the news

    • 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.

    About Hangul (Kashmir Stag)

    Details
    Scientific Name Cervus hanglu
    Habitat Dense riverine forests in high valleys and mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, northern Himachal Pradesh
    Geographic Range Endemic to Kashmir and surrounding areas
    Distribution
    • Primarily found in Dachigam National Park;
    • Small population in Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary
    Conservation Status
    • IUCN: Critically Endangered
    • CITES: Appendix I
    • Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I (highest level of protection)

    Threats to Hanguls

    • Predator Concerns: Hangul faces threats from predators like leopards and Asiatic Black Bears, necessitating further research and monitoring.
    • Environmental Challenges: Drying drainages and snowless glacial areas in Dachigam raise concerns about habitat sustainability, highlighting the impact of climate change.

    About Dachigam National Park

    • DNP boasts diverse flora and fauna, encompassing deep valleys, rocky outcrops, wooded slopes, and alpine pastures.
    • Spanning altitudes from 1600 m to 4200 m above sea level, the park is divided into upper and lower regions, each harboring unique ecosystems.
    • The park is home to a plethora of plant species, including wild cherry, pear, plum, walnut, oak, pine, and elm, fostering a biodiverse ecosystem.
    • Apart from hangul, the park supports a variety of wildlife, including musk deer, brown bears, leopards, Himalayan black bears, jungle cats, and species of wild goats like markhor and ibex.

    Try this PYQ from CSP 2012:

    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

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”6naow7100o” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your responses here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]