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  • Forest Conservation Efforts – NFP, Western Ghats, etc.

    Arittapatti Biodiversity Heritage Site

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Why in the News?

    The Tamil Nadu CM has requested the Prime Minister to cancel the tungsten mining rights in Madurai, citing concerns for the Arittapatti biodiversity heritage site.

    About Arittapatti Biodiversity Heritage Site:

    Details • First BHS in Tamil Nadu.
    • Notified for its ecological and historical significance.
    Geological Features • Surrounded by a chain of seven hillocks (inselbergs) which act as a watershed.
    • Watershed feeds 72 lakes, 200 natural springs, and 3 check dams.
    • Historic Anaikondan tank built during the Pandiyan kings in the 16th century.
    Flora and Fauna • Home to 250 species of birds, including Laggar Falcon, Shaheen Falcon, and Bonelli’s Eagle.
    • Hosts species like Indian Pangolin, Slender Loris, and pythons.
    Cultural Significance • Presence of megalithic structures, rock-cut temples, Tamil Brahmi inscriptions, and Jain beds.
    • These features highlight the site’s historical and cultural heritage.

     

    Arittapatti Biodiversity Heritage Site

    Back2Basics: Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS)

    • A BHS is a well-defined, ecologically sensitive area that is recognized for its high biological diversity.
    • Key Features:
      • High Biodiversity: These sites host a variety of wild and domesticated species, including rare, threatened, and keystone species.
      • Ecological Fragility: BHS areas are considered ecologically fragile and are crucial for maintaining local ecosystems.
      • Community Involvement: BHS areas are managed by local communities and society to conserve biodiversity.
    • BHS are declared under Section 37(1) of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, and the State Government can notify such areas in consultation with local bodies.
    • The Nallur Tamarind Grove in Bengaluru, Karnataka, was the first Biodiversity Heritage Site in India, declared in 2007.
    • Protection Measures:
      • The creation of a BHS does not necessarily restrict activities but aims to conserve and manage the biodiversity within these areas for long-term sustainability.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] With reference to India’s biodiversity, Ceylon frogmouth, Coppersmith barbet, Gray-chinned minivet and White-throated redstart are:

    (a) Birds
    (b) Primates
    (c) Reptiles
    (d) Amphibians

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  • Fertilizer Sector reforms – NBS, bio-fertilizers, Neem coating, etc.

    [pib] Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme

    PIB | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: Issues Related To Farm Subsidies & Msp

    Why in the News?

    • The government has a Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme to regulate the subsidy rates for Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers, based on international prices of raw materials and fluctuations in the global market.
    Note:  Unlike P&K fertilizers, urea is provided to farmers at a statutorily notified Maximum Retail Price (MRP), irrespective of its cost of production.

    About the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme:

    Details
    About • Introduced to provide subsidies on Phosphatic (P) and Potassic (K) fertilizers, based on nutrient content, excluding Urea.
    • Aims to promote balanced fertilization by encouraging use of multiple fertilizers for optimal plant nutrition.
    Structure and Functioning • Launched: 2010, under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.
    • Implemented by the Department of Fertilizers, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.
    • Scope: Applies to Phosphatic and Potassic fertilizers (excluding Urea).
    • Governance: Subsidy rates are decided annually or bi-annually, based on market prices of fertilizers and raw materials.
    Aims and Objectives • Promote Balanced Fertilization: Encourages the use of Phosphorus and Potassium to complement Nitrogen and improve soil health.
    • Enhance Nutrient Efficiency: Aims to reduce over-reliance on Urea and improve use of other essential nutrients.
    • Support Farmers’ Affordability: Makes P&K fertilizers more affordable and accessible to farmers.

     

    About New Investment Policy (NIP) on Urea 

    • The NIP for Urea was announced by the Government of India in 2012 to increase domestic urea production capacity and reduce dependence on urea imports.
    • The policy aims to revive old urea plants and promote investment in new plants to meet the growing demand for urea.
    • The NIP focuses on improving fertilizer availability, and ensuring self-sufficiency in urea production.

    Urea Pricing after NIP

    • The pricing of urea is controlled by the government, and the subsidy mechanism ensures affordable pricing for farmers.
    • The government provides subsidies to urea manufacturers to bridge the gap between the cost of production and the retail price, which is kept constant at ₹5,360 per ton (as of 2023) for farmers.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] With reference to chemical fertilizers in India, consider the following statements:

    1. At present, the retail price of chemical fertilizers is market-driven and not administered by the Government.

    2. Ammonia, which is an input of urea, is produced from natural gas.

    3. Sulphur, which is a raw material for phosphoric acid fertilizer, is a by-product of oil refineries.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 2 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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  • Horticulture, Floriculture, Commercial crops, Bamboo Production – MIDH, NFSM-CC, etc.

    [pib] India and ADB sign $98 million loan to promote Plants Health management

    PIB | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: Major Crops & Cropping Patterns

    Why in the News?

    • The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a $98 million loan to support the Building India’s Clean Plant Programme.

    Aims and Objectives

    • The $98 million loan focuses on improving horticulture crop farmers’ access to certified disease-free planting materials.
    • The primary aim is to boost the yield, quality, and resilience of crops, particularly in response to the impacts of climate change.

    About the Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme (CPP):

    Details • Announced in Union Budget 2023-24 to enhance plant health management in India.
    • Aimed at providing farmers access to clean, disease-free planting materials.
    • Anchored by the National Horticulture Board (NHB), which will set up Clean Plant Centers across the country.
    • Ensures global competitiveness of the Indian horticulture sector.
    • Key Objectives:
    – Strengthen the regulatory framework for plant health management.
    – Establish Clean Plant Centres for disease-free horticultural crops.
    – Collaborate with private nurseries, researchers, state governments, and growers’ associations for success.
    • Funding: ADB loan to establish advanced laboratories and diagnostic testing facilities at Clean Plant Centres.
    • Will include a certification scheme for private nurseries to produce disease-free planting materials.
    Where does India stand in its Horticulture Sector? • In 2022-23, India’s horticulture production reached 351.92 million tonnes, surpassing foodgrain production.
    • Second largest producer of fruits and vegetables in the world; Contributes about 33% to the agriculture Gross Value Added (GVA).
    • Ranks first in the production of crops like Bananas, Lime, Papaya, and Okra.
    • Steady increase in horticulture production driven by proactive government policies.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] What are the present challenges before crop diversification? How do emerging technologies provide an opportunity for crop diversification?

    [2018] Assess the role of National Horticulture Mission (NHM) in boosting the production, productivity and income of horticulture farms. How far has it succeeded in increasing the income of farmers?

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  • AYUSH – Indian Medicine System

    [pib] National AYUSH Mission (NAM)

    Schemes | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Achievements Of Indians In S&T

    Why in the News?

    • The National AYUSH Mission (NAM) is an important Centrally Sponsored Scheme aimed at promoting and developing the AYUSH systems of medicine across the country.
      • In addition to NAM, Central Sector Schemes like the AYURSWASTHYA Yojana and the AYURGYAN Scheme play a crucial role in advancing the mission’s objectives

    About AYURGYAN and AYURSWATHYA Scheme

    Details
    AYURSWASTHYA Yojana • Under the Ministry of AYUSH to promote AYUSH healthcare and education.
    • Has two key components:

    1. AYUSH and Public Health: Promotes AYUSH interventions for community health care.
    2. Upgradation of Facilities to Centre of Excellence: Improves standards of AYUSH medical units and establishes advanced centers in AYUSH and Allopathic institutions (both Govt. and Private).

    • Funding: Maximum assistance of ₹10 crore for Centre of Excellence upgrades for 3 years.
    AYURGYAN Scheme • Created by merging two schemes under one umbrella.
    • Focuses on promoting AYUSH education and research.
    • Aims to develop quality standards and expand AYUSH education and healthcare services across India.
    • Training of healthcare professionals in AYUSH and supporting research initiatives to improve efficacy and standards of traditional medicine.

    Back2Basics: National AYUSH Mission (NAM)

    Category Details
    Overview   • Launched in September 2014 under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare during the 12th Five Year Plan.
    • Aimed at promoting and strengthening traditional systems of medicine: AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy).
    • Focuses on improving healthcare infrastructure in rural and remote areas, enhancing access to AYUSH services and promoting holistic health across India.
    Implementation and Structure • Initially implemented by the Department of AYUSH, now under the Ministry of AYUSH for nationwide execution.
    • Works in partnership with States and UTs to address healthcare gaps in underserved areas.
    Provisions under NAM • Promotion of AYUSH Systems: Integrates AYUSH into the mainstream healthcare system, especially in rural and underserved areas.
    • Support to State/UTs: Provides financial support for establishing AYUSH dispensaries, clinics, colleges and hospitals.
    • Strengthening AYUSH Health Services: Financial assistance for expanding AYUSH services, especially in remote areas.
    • Research & Development (R&D): Supports research for developing better treatments and standardizing practices in AYUSH.

    PYQ:

    [2019] How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies?

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  • Waste Management – SWM Rules, EWM Rules, etc

    Stigma of HIV and the birth of biomedical waste regulations

    Explained | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Why in the News?

    The stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS impacts not only those living with the virus but also affects healthcare practices as a whole. India needs policies that address both the medical treatment of HIV and the social issues that prevent effective healthcare.

    Background:

    • In 1983, Luc Montagnier and Robert Gallo identified the AIDS-causing virus. By the mid-1980s, HIV/AIDS symbolized fear, targeting immune cells and posing immense medical challenges without effective treatments.
    • In August 1987, the U.S. beaches saw a disturbing “Syringe Tide,” with used syringes and medical waste washing ashore, alarming the public and creating a national outcry over health concerns.
    • In 1986, India passed the Environmental Protection Act, marking its first major step towards environmental protection. It also identified the first HIV case at Madras Medical College.
    • Despite this progress, biomedical waste was not recognized as ‘hazardous waste’, and the 1989 Hazardous Waste Rules did not include biomedical waste, leaving its disposal to local bodies.

    Why did the USA pass the Medical Waste Tracking Act, of 1988?

    • Public Health Crisis: The syringe tide incident, where used syringes and medical waste washed ashore, raised severe public health concerns, especially given the context of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Many syringes found were reportedly HIV-positive, amplifying fears about contamination and disease transmission.
    • Economic Impact: The tourism industry suffered significant losses, estimated at over $1 billion due to beach closures and public fear of contaminated shorelines. This economic fallout prompted a swift governmental response to restore public confidence and safety.
    • Regulatory Framework: The Medical Waste Tracking Act of 1988 established a clear framework for monitoring and managing medical waste from its generation to disposal. This legislation recognized medical waste as a distinct category requiring specific handling procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

    What are the new Biomedical Waste Regulations in India?

    • Biomedical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, introduced in 1998: It marked a significant step by formally recognizing hospital waste as hazardous. This legislation empowered Pollution Control Boards to oversee waste management practices.
    • Biomedical Waste Management Rules (BMWM Rules)), 2016: It represents a comprehensive regulatory framework aimed at managing biomedical waste effectively.
      • Initially, biomedical waste was categorized into ten different types. This was later simplified to four color-coded categories in the 2016 amendments, which aimed to streamline the segregation process
    • Segregation and Treatment: Current regulations mandate that biomedical waste be segregated at the point of generation into specific categories (e.g., infectious, non-infectious) and treated accordingly before disposal.
      • Yellow Bags: For human anatomical waste, soiled waste, expired medicines, and chemical waste. This waste is typically treated through incineration.
      • Red Bags: For recyclable contaminated waste such as tubing and syringes (without needles), which undergo autoclaving before recycling.
      • White Containers: For sharps like needles and blades, which are sterilized before disposal.
      • Blue Boxes: For glassware that is disinfected or autoclaved.

    How do these regulations aim to address environmental concerns?

    • The regulations aim to prevent environmental contamination by ensuring that biomedical waste is not mixed with general waste streams, thus reducing the risk of hazardous materials entering landfills or water bodies.
    • By regulating how medical waste is handled and disposed of, these laws protect public health and the occupational safety of healthcare workers who may be exposed to hazardous materials during their work.

    What challenges exist in implementing these biomedical waste regulations?

    • Compliance Gaps: Despite established regulations, many healthcare facilities, particularly in rural areas, struggle with compliance due to a lack of resources, training, or awareness about proper waste management practices.
    • Occupational Hazards: Healthcare professionals continue to face risks from improperly managed biomedical waste, which can lead to exposure to infectious materials and other hazardous substances.
    • Infrastructure Limitations: Inadequate infrastructure for waste segregation and treatment remains a significant challenge in many regions of India, hindering the effective implementation of existing regulations.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Infrastructure and Training: Invest in modern waste treatment facilities and ensure regular training programs for healthcare workers, particularly in rural areas, to enhance compliance with biomedical waste regulations.
    • Enforce Strict Monitoring and Penalties: Implement robust monitoring systems and impose penalties for non-compliance to ensure accountability and adherence to waste management standards across all healthcare facilities.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What are the impediments in disposing of the huge quantities of discarded solid wastes which are continuously being generated? How do we remove safely the toxic wastes that have been accumulating in our habitable environment? (UPSC IAS/2018)

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  • Freedom of Speech – Defamation, Sedition, etc.

    Wikipedia and ANI’s defamation suit

    Explained | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Governance, Transparency & Accountability, Citizens Charters

    Why in the News?

    In the first half of 2024, the Asian News International (ANI) filed a defamation suit against Wikipedia Foundation and three Wikipedia administrators in the Delhi High Court, which ordered Wikipedia to disclose the administrators’ details.

    What are the charges levelled by ANI in the defamation against Wikipedia?

    • Defamatory Statements: ANI claims that its Wikipedia page contains false and misleading statements, including accusations of being a “propaganda tool” for the Indian government and distributing materials from fake news websites. They argue these claims tarnish their reputation and professional standing.
    • Interference with Edits: ANI alleges that Wikipedia administrators have actively removed edits made by ANI-associated editors that sought to correct these statements, thereby violating their rights and obligations as an intermediary under Indian law.

    Who is Allowed to Edit Wikipedia Pages?

    • Any Member of the Wikipedia Community: Wikipedia allows any user to edit pages, provided they follow the platform’s guidelines. However, there are certain restrictions based on page status and the user’s account level.
    • Extended Confirmed Users: Pages with a high risk of vandalism or controversial topics may be protected, meaning only editors with extended confirmed status (long-standing accounts and a minimum number of edits) can edit these pages.
    • Administrators: These are experienced editors elected by the community who can make additional changes, including protecting pages, blocking users, and performing technical functions.

    What are the Guidelines for Editing Wikipedia Pages?

    • Reliability and Verifiability: All statements on Wikipedia must be backed by reliable, verifiable sources. Original research is not allowed, and editors are prohibited from publishing ideas or analyses not previously published elsewhere.
    • Neutral Point of View (NPOV): Editors are required to maintain neutrality in writing articles. Content should not be biased or represent a particular viewpoint.
    • Consensus and Collaboration: Wikipedia is a community-driven platform, and decisions about the content are made through consensus. Editors are encouraged to work together to resolve disputes.
    • Page Protection: If a page is subject to frequent vandalism or disputes, it can be marked for protection, either for extended confirmed users or administrators only. This is done to maintain the integrity of the content.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Legal Framework for Online Defamation: The Indian government should create clear legal guidelines to address defamation issues related to online platforms, ensuring accountability for platforms like Wikimedia in cases of false or misleading content.
    • Promote Digital Literacy and Content Regulation: The government should invest in promoting digital literacy to help users better understand and navigate online content, and ensure platforms like Wikipedia adhere to stricter content verification and neutrality standards.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Major cities of India are becoming vulnerable to flood conditions. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2016)

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  • Women empowerment issues – Jobs,Reservation and education

    Worker population ratio for women doubled since 2017-18

    Explained | Indian Society | Mains Paper 1: Role Of Women & Women Organization

    Why in the News?

    Union Minister told the Rajya Sabha that more women are now working and looking for jobs. The percentage of women working has gone up from 22% in 2017-18 to 40.3% in 2023-24, and the percentage of women in the labor force has increased from 23.3% to 41.7% during the same period.

    • Presently, India ranks 165th out of 187 countries in the world.

    What factors have contributed to the doubling of the worker population?

    • Increased Economic Engagement: The WPR for women rose from 22% in 2017-18 to 40.3% in 2023-24, indicating a substantial increase in women’s engagement in economic activities.
    • Educational Advancements: There has been a notable rise in the employment of educated women. For instance, the employment rate for women with postgraduate education increased from 34.5% to 39.6% during the same period.
    • Government Initiatives: Various government policies aimed at enhancing women’s employment opportunities and empowerment have played a crucial role in this increase.
    • Rural Participation: A significant factor has been the rise in female labour force participation in rural areas, which jumped by 23 percentage points from 2017-18 to 2023-24.

    How does the increase in women’s worker population ratio compare across different regions and sectors? 

    • Urban vs. Rural Participation: The increase in female labour force participation has been more pronounced in rural areas, from 24.6% to 47.6%. In contrast, urban participation saw a smaller increase from 20.4% to 23.8%.
    • Sectoral Differences: Women are increasingly participating in various sectors, with significant improvements noted in agriculture and informal sectors, which traditionally employ many women.

    What are the implications of economic growth and gender equality in India?

    • Economic Growth: The rise in women’s workforce participation contributes positively to economic growth by increasing productivity and expanding the labour market. This shift is essential for achieving higher overall economic performance.
    • Gender Equality: Enhanced participation of women in the workforce is a critical step toward achieving gender equality. As more women enter the labour force, it challenges traditional gender roles and promotes equal opportunities.
    • Income Growth: With increased participation comes improved earnings for women across different employment categories, further contributing to household income and economic stability.

    Way forward: 

    • Skill Development and Inclusive Policies: Expand skill training programs tailored to women’s needs, particularly in non-traditional and high-growth sectors like technology, finance, and entrepreneurship.
    • Strengthening Rural and Informal Sector Opportunities: Invest in rural employment initiatives, such as MGNREGA, and formalize informal sector jobs by improving access to social security benefits, childcare support, and credit facilities for women entrepreneurs.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q ‘Women’s movement in India has not addressed the issues of women of lower social strata.’ Substantiate your view. (UPSC IAS/2016)

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  • Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

    [pib] Conservation and Maintenance Work of Protected Monuments

    Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Why in the News?

    Conservation and maintenance work are being carried out at following places in Karnataka by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI):

    Key Facts
    Hoyasaleshwara Temple

    		 • Located in Halebidu, Karnataka.
    • Built in the 12th century during the Hoysala dynasty under King Vishnuvardhana.
    • Dedicated to Lord Shiva.
    • Famous for its detailed sculptures, depicting mythological stories, deities, and animals.
    • Hoysala style architecture with a star-shaped platform and intricate stone carvings.
    • Temple is a masterpiece of the Hoysala architectural style, with complex stonework and frieze detailing.
    • UNESCO tentative list for World Heritage status.
    Amrutheshwara Temple

    		 • Located in Amruthapura, Karnataka, near Tarikere.
    • Built in the 14th century by King Harihara II of the Vijayanagara Empire.
    • Dedicated to Lord Shiva.
    • Architectural style reflects Vijayanagara influence with a prominent pillared hall.
    • Famous for its stone carvings, particularly those on the Shiva Linga.
    • Notable for its tank and the beautiful courtyard surrounding the temple.
    • Temple follows the tradition of Chola and Hoysala architecture, with distinct Vijayanagara elements.
    Gol Gumbaz

    		 • Located in Vijayapura, Karnataka.
    • Built in the 17th century by Sultan Muhammad Adil Shah of the Bijapur Sultanate as his tomb.
    • Second-largest dome in the world after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
    • Acoustic marvel: The dome has a whispering gallery, where sounds can be heard clearly from great distances.
    • The central dome spans 44 meters in diameter and is flanked by four towers.
    • The structure is made of lime mortar and stone.
    • Reflects Deccan Sultanate architectural brilliance, combining Persian, Ottoman, and Indian elements.
    Gomatesvara Temple

    		 • Located in Shravanabelagola, Karnataka.
    • Features the 57-feet monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali (Gomatesvara), carved from a single block of granite in 981 AD.
    • The statue is the largest monolithic statue in India.
    • A major pilgrimage site for Jains; it commemorates the spiritual enlightenment of Bahubali.
    • The temple complex includes tall steps leading up to the statue, with pilgrims performing a ritual of climbing the steps.
    • Maha Mastakabhisheka: Every 12 years, the statue is anointed with milk, water, and saffron in a grand ritual.
    • The temple and statue are considered an architectural marvel in Jain art and sculpture.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] With reference to art and archaeological history of India, which one among the following was made earliest?

    (a) Lingaraja Temple at Bhubaneswar

    (b) Rock-cut Elephant at Dhauli

    (c) Rock-cut Monuments at Mahabalipuram

    (d) Varaha Image at Udayagiri

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  • Urban Transformation – Smart Cities, AMRUT, etc.

    [pib] Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF)

    PIB | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Governance, Transparency & Accountability, Citizens Charters

    Why in the News?

    The Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF) has been established to support the development of urban infrastructure in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.

    About Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF):

    Details
    What is it? • Established (budget speech for Financial Year 2023-24) to utilize priority sector lending shortfall for financing urban infrastructure projects.
    • Managed by the National Housing Bank (NHB).
    • Initial Corpus: ₹10,000 crore.
    • Modeled after the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF), which supports rural infrastructure projects.
    • Focus on developing Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities in India.

    • Tier-2 Cities: Cities with populations between 50,000 and 1 lakh.
    • Tier-3 Cities: Cities with populations below 50,000.
    Aims and Objectives • Support Urban Infrastructure: Provides funding for essential urban services such as water supply, sanitation, sewerage, and waste management.
    • Sewerage, water supply, sanitation, drains, and solid waste management.
    • Prioritizes projects with significant improvements in urban services.
    • Funds are allocated to Municipal Corporations and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) for infrastructure development.
    Structural Mandate and Implementation • Coverage: Supports 459 Tier-2 cities and 580 Tier-3 cities in India.
    • Loan Terms: Loans offered at Bank Rate minus 1.5% interest rate.
    • Repayment Terms: Loan repayable in five equal annual instalments over seven years.
    • Moratorium Period: Two years before repayment starts.
    • Quarterly Interest Payments: Regular payments required during the loan period.

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] With reference to ‘National Investment and Infrastructure Fund’, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. It is an organ of NITI Aayog.
    2. It has a corpus of Rs 4,00,000 crore at present.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 only
    (c) Both 1 and 2
    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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  • Urban Transformation – Smart Cities, AMRUT, etc.

    [pib] Salient Features of AMRUT 2.0

    PIB | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Government Scheme/Policies

    Why in the News?

    The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0 is a scheme launched on October 1, 2021 continues to make strides towards transforming Indian cities into self-reliant and water-secure urban areas.

    Back2Basics: Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT)

    • It is a flagship urban development scheme launched in June 2015.
    • The mission is being operated as a Central Sponsored Scheme.
    • Aim: To provide basic urban infrastructure to improve the quality of life in cities and towns.
    • Objectives:  
      • Ensure that every household has access to a tap with an assured water supply and a sewerage connection.
      • Increase the green areas in the cities.
      • Reduce pollution by promoting public transport and constructing facilities for non-motorized transport.
    • Funding: It is divided among States/UTs in an equitable formula in which 50:50 weightage.
    • It covers 500 cities including all cities and towns with a population of over 1 lakh with notified Municipalities.

    About AMRUT 2.0:

    Details • Launched on 1st October 2021 as the continuation of AMRUT 1.0.
    • Aims to enhance urban infrastructure in 500 cities by focusing on water supply, wastewater management, and rejuvenation of water bodies.
    • The mission runs for five years (FY 2021-22 to FY 2025-26).
    Salient Features and Mission • Universal Coverage: Ensures coverage of water supply and sewerage in 500 cities and 4,900 statutory towns.
    • Circular Economy: Focuses on water recycling, reuse of treated sewage, and water conservation.
    • Technology Integration: Adopts global technologies for better water management.
    • Pey Jal Survekshan: Survey to assess water distribution, wastewater reuse, and promote healthy competition among cities.
    Its Implementation and Further Roadmap • Project Approval: 8,998 projects approved with an estimated cost of ₹1,89,458.55 crore.
    • Funds Distribution: Funds released by MoHUA to States/UTs and then to Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).
    • State Water Action Plan (SWAP): States/UTs must complete their SWAP and get approval within two years of the mission’s launch.
    • Future Plans: Focus on sustainable water management and extension of AMRUT 1.0 benefits to more towns.

     

    PYQ:

    [2011] In India, a Metropolitan Planning Committee

    1. is constituted under the provisions of the Constitution of India.

    2. prepares the draft development plans for metropolitan area.

    3. has the sole responsibility for implementing Government sponsored schemes in the metropolitan area.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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