Archives: News

Climate Change Negotiations – UNFCCC, COP, Other Conventions and Protocols

Strengthening the roots of an agri-carbon market

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

Why in the News?

In India, current carbon credit projects by private organisations should be reviewed to ensure they are fair and work effectively.

What are the current carbon credit projects?

Collaborative Initiatives: NABARD, ICAR, and State Universities have listed five agricultural carbon credit projects in the Verra registry to promote sustainable agriculture.
Carbon Farming Projects: Over 50 projects targeting 1.6 million hectares aim to generate 4.7 million carbon credits annually, but none are registered, leaving farmers without financial benefits.

Note: Verra is a carbon credit registry that manages the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS), ensuring high-quality carbon credit projects and facilitating transparent trading of carbon credits.

What are the key challenges facing agricultural carbon markets?

Lack of Communication and Training: A significant portion of farmers (45%) reported inadequate communication regarding carbon farming practices, and over 60% lacked training in new techniques. This gap in knowledge can hinder the effective implementation of sustainable practices necessary for generating carbon credits.
Exclusion of Marginalized Communities: Many existing carbon farming projects have not adequately included smallholders and marginalized communities, with women representing only 4% of participants. This lack of inclusivity limits the socioeconomic benefits that carbon markets could provide to a broader segment of the farming population.
Financial Incentives: A notable 28% of farmers discontinued sustainable practices by the second year due to insufficient financial incentives. The absence of timely payments for carbon credits further discourages participation and undermines project sustainability.
Unregistered Projects: Despite over 50 agricultural carbon farming projects being listed in the Verra registry, none have been officially registered, meaning no carbon credits have been issued and farmers have not received any financial compensation.
Quality Assurance: Ensuring that projects deliver reliable environmental benefits is crucial. If projects fail to produce credible carbon credits, it may lead to a loss of confidence among buyers, which would ultimately deprive farmers of income and discourage sustainable practices.

How can farmers be incentivized to participate in carbon markets?

Higher Prices for Inclusive Projects: Offering premium prices for carbon credits from projects that actively include smallholders and marginalized communities can encourage broader participation and ensure equitable benefits.
Effective Communication and Training Programs: Establishing robust communication channels and providing regular training on sustainable agricultural practices will empower farmers to adopt new techniques confidently.
Guaranteed Timely Payments: Implementing a system that ensures farmers receive prompt payments for their carbon credits will enhance trust in the market and encourage ongoing participation in sustainable practices.
Collaboration with Research Institutions: Partnering with national and international research organizations can help identify suitable regions for carbon farming, ensuring that interventions are effective and do not compromise food security.
Bundling Small Farmers into Cooperatives: Creating Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) can help reduce transaction costs, improve bargaining power, and facilitate easier access to carbon markets for smallholder farmers.

What role do technological advancements play in enhancing agri-carbon markets?

Improved Measurement Techniques: Advances in digital technologies such as remote sensing, satellite imagery, drones, and sensors will enhance the monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) processes essential for assessing soil carbon levels and GHG emissions accurately.
Data Accessibility: The increasing availability of technology will allow farmers to access real-time data on their farming practices, enabling them to make informed decisions that align with sustainable methods required for carbon credit generation.
Enhanced Project Implementation: Technology can streamline project management by facilitating better communication between stakeholders, tracking progress, and ensuring compliance with additionality and permanence criteria necessary for successful carbon credit projects.
Scalability of Projects: Digital tools can help scale successful carbon farming initiatives by providing frameworks that can be replicated across different regions, thus expanding the reach of agricultural carbon markets in India.

Way forward:

Strengthen Inclusivity and Farmer Incentives: Promote inclusive projects that actively engage smallholders and marginalized communities by offering premium prices for carbon credits, ensuring timely payments, and bundling farmers into cooperatives for better market access.
Leverage Technology for Efficiency: Utilize advanced digital tools like remote sensing and real-time data systems to improve monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) processes, enhance project scalability, and ensure effective implementation of carbon credit initiatives.

Mains PYQ:

Q Should the pursuit of carbon credits and clean development mechanisms set up under UNFCCC be maintained even though there has been a massive slide in the value of a carbon credit? Discuss with respect to India’s energy needs for economic growth.. (UPSC IAS/2014)

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Food Procurement and Distribution – PDS & NFSA, Shanta Kumar Committee, FCI restructuring, Buffer stock, etc.

Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA)

Schemes | Economics | Mains Paper 3: PDS, Buffer Stock & Food Security

Why in the News?

Since its launch, PM-AASHA has significantly benefitted farmers, contributing to the procurement of 195.39 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of agricultural commodities, valued at ₹1,07,433.73 crore, from over 99 lakh farmers.

Procurement Details:

In the Rabi 2023-24 season, 6.41 LMT of pulses, valued at ₹4,820 crore, were procured from 2.75 lakh farmers. This included:
- 2.49 LMT of Masoor
- 43,000 metric tonnes of Chana
- LMT of Moong
In addition, 12.19 LMT of oilseeds, valued at ₹6,900 crore, were procured from 5.29 lakh farmers.
In the ongoing Kharif season, the government has procured 5.62 LMT of Soyabean, valued at ₹2,700 crore, benefiting 2.42 lakh farmers.

About the PM-AASHA Scheme

Details

Launched in 2018, PM-AASHA is an umbrella scheme encompassing various components to ensure farmers receive fair prices for their produce.

Aims and Objectives

Ensuring fair prices for farmers by providing price support when market prices fall below the Minimum Support Price (MSP).
Stabilize the prices of essential commodities, benefiting both farmers and consumers.
Addressing price fluctuations and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices for crops like pulses, oilseeds, and copra.

Structural Mandate and Implementation

Type: Central Sector Scheme (Fully funded by the Centre).
Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
Fund Allocation: Rs. 35,000 crore during the 15th Finance Commission Cycle (up to 2025-26).
Central Nodal Agencies (CNA):
- Guarantees to lender banks for extending cash credit facilities to agencies like NAFED (National Agricultural Co-operative Marketing Federation of India Limited) and NCCF (National Co-operative Consumer’s Federation of India Limited) for MSP procurement.
- Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) will procure pulses at market price from pre-registered farmers on eSamridhi Portal of NAFED and eSamyukti Portal of NCCF when prices exceed MSP.

Key Components:

Price Support Scheme (PSS):
The PSS is the core component of PM-AASHA, operating through state governments to procure notified commodities at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) levels.
It provides financial relief to farmers when market prices fall below MSP, offering remunerative prices and promoting investment in agriculture.
The government fixes the MSP for 24 crops at 1.5 times the Cost of Production (CoP) to ensure a fair income for farmers.
Price Deficiency Payment Scheme (PDPS):

Under PDPS, farmers are provided direct payments if the market prices of oilseeds fall below the MSP.
It helps bridge the gap between MSP and market prices, ensuring that farmers still get a fair return.
Market Intervention Scheme (MIS):

The MIS provides financial assistance to states for price stabilization of perishable agricultural commodities like Tomato, Onion, and Potato, which are not covered under MSP.
This scheme helps manage price volatility and benefits both farmers and consumers by stabilizing prices.

PYQ:

[2020] In India, the term “Public Key Infrastructure” is used in the context of:

(a) Digital security infrastructure

(b) Food security infrastructure

(d) Telecommunication and transportation infrastructure

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Telecom and Postal Sector – Spectrum Allocation, Call Drops, Predatory Pricing, etc

[pib] Comprehensive Telecom Development Plan

Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

Why in the News?

The Comprehensive Telecom Development Plan for North Eastern Region (NER) funded from Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) aims to provide mobile coverage to uncovered villages and National Highways.

About the Comprehensive Telecom Development Plan (CTDP):

Overview

CTDP aims to enhance telecommunications infrastructure in India’s North Eastern Region (NER) by improving mobile and broadband access.
The plan is funded by the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) programme.

Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN):

Established under the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
Replaces the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF).
USOF was created to provide telecom services in remote and rural areas at affordable prices.
Funded by a 5% Universal Service Levy on the Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) of telecom operators.
Aimed to expand telecom networks in low-profit remote and rural areas.
Statutory Status: Granted in December 2003 through amendments to the Indian Telegraph Act (now superseded by the Telecom Act, 2023).

Salient Features

Mobile Coverage Expansion: Extend mobile coverage to previously uncovered villages and National Highways in NER.
Enhanced Connectivity: Installation of 2,619 mobile towers, covering 3,223 villages and 286 highway locations.
4G Saturation: Providing 4G connectivity to remote villages.
Support for Socio-Economic Development: Empower citizens through ICTs for development.
Digital Inclusion: Help bridge the digital divide in NER.

Structural Mandate and Implementation

Funding: Primarily funded by the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) programme.
Implementation: Coordinated through DBN-funded schemes focusing on mobile towers, 4G coverage, and broadband development.
Agencies Involved:
- Ministry of Communication: Oversees implementation, ensures spectrum and policy approvals.
- DBN: Provides funding and operational support.
- Telecom Service Providers: Deploy infrastructure like towers and 4G networks.
- State Governments of NER: Facilitate local implementation.
- Project Management Agencies: Involved in setting up towers and maintenance.

PYQ:

[2018] Which of the following is/are the aims/aims of the “Digital India” Plan of the Government of India?

Formation of India’s own Internet companies like China did.
Establish a policy framework to encourage overseas multinational corporations that collect Big Data to build their large data centres within our national geographical boundaries.
Connect many of our villages to the Internet and bring Wi-Fi to many of our schools, public places and major tourist centres.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

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Oil and Gas Sector – HELP, Open Acreage Policy, etc.

What is OPEC+?

IOCR Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Important International Institutions

Why in the News?

With Donald Trump potentially returning to the White House, OPEC+ delegates express concern over higher US oil production.
- His administration’s focus on deregulating the energy sector could lead to increased oil output, contributing to a further erosion of OPEC+’s market share.

About ‘Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries’ Plus (OPEC+)

What is OPEC+?

Formation and Purpose:

OPEC+ is a coalition of OPEC members and non-OPEC oil-producing nations that work together to manage oil production and stabilize global oil prices.
The alliance was formed in 2016 in response to increasing oil production in the United States, particularly from shale oil, which led to falling oil prices.

OPEC Members:

OPEC was founded in 1960 and includes 12 member countries:
Algeria, Angola, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Libya, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Venezuela.

Non-OPEC Members in OPEC+:

OPEC+ includes 10 non-OPEC members:
Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Brunei, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Mexico, Oman, Russia, South Sudan, Sudan.

Global Influence:

OPEC+ countries together produce approximately 40% of the world’s crude oil and control about 80% of the world’s proven oil reserves.

Factors are influencing OPEC+’s oil production cuts

Rising US oil production: The shale boom in the US has increased its market share, impacting OPEC+’s influence.
Global price stability: OPEC+ implements production cuts to prevent oil prices from falling too low.
Weak global demand: Extended cuts due to low demand, especially in major economies.

Implications of OPEC+’s policies

Reduced market share: OPEC+’s global oil share dropped from 55% in 2016 to 48% in 2024.
Price volatility: OPEC+’s production cuts aim to stabilize prices, but increasing US production affects this goal.
Economic stability: Production cuts help sustain favorable prices for oil-producing economies.

PYQ:

[2009] Other than Venezuela, which one among the following from South America is a member of OPEC?

(a) Argentina
(b) Bolivia
(c) Ecuador
(d) Brazil

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

India conducts first-ever Ganges River Dolphin Tagging in Assam

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

Why in the News?

The first-ever Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica) has been tagged in Assam, marking a major achievement in wildlife conservation.

About Ganges River Dolphin:

Details

Ganga River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica) – Known as the “Tiger of the Ganges,” discovered in 1801.
Declared National Aquatic Animal in 2009 and State Aquatic Animal of Assam.
The announcement was made at the first meeting of the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA).
Habitat: Around 90% of the species live in India, primarily in the Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli river systems.
Features: Blind, lives in freshwater, uses ultrasonic sounds to hunt, travels in small groups, and surface every 30-120 seconds for breathing.

Importance and Threats

Acts as an indicator of river ecosystem health (being the apex predator).
Threats: Unintentional killing through fishing gear, poaching for oil, habitat destruction, pollution (industrial waste, pesticides, noise).

Protection Status and Government Initiatives

Protection Status:

IUCN: Endangered
Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972: Schedule I
CITES: Appendix I
CMS: Appendix I

Conservation Initiatives: Project Dolphin, Vikramshila Ganges Dolphin Sanctuary (Bihar), National Ganga River Dolphin Day (October 5).

What is Project Dolphin?

Launch: Announced by PM Narendra Modi on 15th August 2020.
Objective: Conservation of India’s riverine and oceanic dolphins.
Duration: 10-year initiative.
Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change.
Key Objectives:
- Safeguard India’s dolphin population by mitigating threats to riverine and oceanic species.
- Address conservation challenges while engaging stakeholders in dolphin conservation efforts.

PYQ:

[2015] Which one of the following is the national aquatic animal of India?

(a) Saltwater crocodile

(b) Olive ridley turtle

(d) Gharial

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Foreign Policy Watch: India-Sri Lanka

India and Sri Lanka need to go beyond the stated positions

Explained | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: India & Its Neighborhood – Relations

Why in the News?

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s visit to India, his first international trip as per tradition, underscores the continuity in India-Sri Lanka bilateral relations.

What are the current China-related challenges in India-Sri Lanka relations?

Geopolitical Tensions: Sri Lanka’s historical ties with China, particularly during the Mahinda Rajapaksa regime, have raised concerns in India regarding potential Chinese influence in the region.
- China’s investment in Sri Lanka, particularly in the Hambantota Port, is closely tied to its broader String of Pearls strategy.
Economic Dependency: Sri Lanka’s reliance on Chinese investments has created a “debt trap” scenario, limiting its ability to align with Indian interests fully. The need for economic assistance from both nations complicates Sri Lanka’s foreign policy decisions, as it seeks support without alienating either side.
Balancing Act: Sri Lanka is attempting to navigate its relationships with India and China, which often puts it in a difficult position.
- President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has expressed intentions to strengthen ties with India while maintaining relations with China, indicating a desire for a balanced approach. However, this balancing act is complicated by India’s concerns over Chinese influence and activities in the Indian Ocean.

How can India and Sri Lanka enhance their economic and strategic partnerships?

Trade Agreements: There is a push for an upgraded India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to facilitate bilateral trade and investment. This could include provisions for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) protection and expanded coverage of goods and services.
Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme: Implementing a regional PLI scheme could encourage Indian businesses to invest in Sri Lanka, particularly in sectors like renewable energy and electronics. This initiative would help build regional supply chains and reduce dependency on imports.
B2B Engagement: Strengthening business-to-business ties, especially between smaller enterprises, could enhance economic collaboration. This involves increasing participation in trade fairs and fostering connections between businesses in southern Indian states and Sri Lanka.

What role does regional stability play? (Way forward)

Security Cooperation: Regional stability is crucial for both nations as they address external threats, particularly from China. Dissanayake’s assurance that Sri Lankan territory will not be used against Indian interests is vital for maintaining security cooperation and trust between the two countries.
Economic Recovery: As Sri Lanka recovers from its recent economic crisis, stable relations with India are essential for securing ongoing support from international financial institutions like the IMF. Enhanced cooperation can serve as a model for regional partnerships that promote stability and economic growth across South Asia.
Geopolitical Balance: A collaborative approach can help mitigate risks associated with external influences and ensure that both nations can pursue their national interests without compromising sovereignty.

Mains PYQ:

Q What do you understand by ‘The String of Pearls’? How does it impact India? Briefly outline the steps taken by India to counter this. (UPSC IAS/2013)

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OBOR Initiative

China is the world’s largest debt collector

Explained | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

Why in the News?

By the end of 2023, China emerged as the leading debt collector, holding over 25% of the world’s bilateral external debt.

Two decades ago, Japan, followed by Germany, France, the United States, and the United Kingdom, dominated global lending, with China rarely extending loans.

What is China’s ‘Debt Trap Policy’?

China’s “Debt Trap Policy” (also known as the ‘slicing strategy’) refers to a strategy where it provides excessive loans to developing countries, often for large infrastructure projects, which these nations struggle to repay. This policy is primarily associated with China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
When countries default on their loans, they may be forced to cede control of critical assets to China, effectively creating a debt-for-equity swap.
- Notable examples include Sri Lanka’s Hambantota port, which was leased to China for 99 years after the country failed to meet repayment obligations.

Which countries have been affected by China’s debt trap policy?

Sri Lanka: Struggled with $8 billion in debt, leading to the leasing of the Hambantota port.
Pakistan: Owes approximately $22 billion, close to 60% of its bilateral debt.
Laos: Faces significant economic challenges with $6 billion owed to China, over 75% of its bilateral debt.
Angola: Owes $17 billion, about 58% of its external debt.
These countries often find themselves in financial distress due to high interest rates and the burden of debt repayments consuming essential public resources.

How are developing countries managing their debt to China?

Developing countries are employing various strategies to manage their debts to China:

Debt Restructuring: Nations like Zambia are negotiating terms to restructure their debts in light of economic difficulties.
Attracting Investment: Countries are seeking new foreign investments or loans from other nations or institutions to alleviate their financial burdens.
Engaging in Bilateral Talks: Some nations are attempting to engage China in discussions aimed at debt forgiveness or more favourable repayment terms. However, China’s reluctance to forgive debt complicates these negotiations.

What are the implications of this debt burden on regional and global geopolitics?

The implications of China’s debt policies extend beyond economics into geopolitics:

Increased Influence: By becoming the largest creditor, China gains substantial leverage over debtor nations, potentially influencing their foreign policy and strategic decisions. This is particularly evident in South Asia and Africa, where countries may align more closely with Chinese interests due to their indebtedness.
Economic Dependency: Nations heavily reliant on Chinese loans risk becoming economically dependent on China, which can limit their sovereignty and decision-making capabilities. This dependency can also lead to geopolitical tensions with other powers, such as India or the United States.
Potential Instability: The growing debt burden could lead to financial crises in several nations, resulting in political instability. The inability of countries like Sri Lanka and Pakistan to manage their debts raises concerns about broader regional stability and economic health.

What are the challenges to India due to this policy?

Rising Chinese Influence and Strategic Risks: China’s lending practices are expanding its influence in South Asia, particularly in nations like Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, undermining India’s role as a regional leader.
- This includes control over strategic assets such as Sri Lanka’s Hambantota Port and infrastructure under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in the POK region, which poses direct security threats to India.
Geopolitical and Economic Competition: China’s assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region, coupled with favorable loan terms, challenges India’s investments and diplomatic efforts.
Regional Instability and Spillover Effects: Debt-driven economic instability in countries like Sri Lanka results in political unrest and humanitarian crises, which can spill over into India, necessitating responses to refugee inflows and potential destabilization in the region.

Way forward:

Strengthening Regional Partnerships: India should enhance economic and strategic cooperation with neighbouring countries through competitive financing, capacity-building initiatives, and infrastructure projects under transparent terms to counter China’s influence and foster regional stability.
Promoting Multilateral Solutions: India can collaborate with global institutions like the IMF, World Bank, and Quad partners to offer alternative financial support.

Mains PYQ:

Q The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is viewed as a cardinal subset of China’s larger ‘One Belt One Road’ initiative. Give a brief description of CPEC and enumerate the reasons why India has distanced itself from the same. (UPSC IAS/2018)

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Gold Monetisation Scheme

Why the government could discontinue the sovereign gold scheme?

Explained | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

Why in the News?

Sovereign gold bonds provide a safer and more cost-effective alternative to holding physical gold, as they reduce risks and storage expenses. However, the central government is considering discontinuing the SGB scheme.

What is the Sovereign Gold Bond scheme?

About	GOI launched it on October 30, 2015.
Structural Mandate	Nodal Agency: Ministry of Finance; Issued by *RBI* on behalf of the GOI.
Aims and Objectives	To reduce dependence on gold imports and shift savings from physical gold to paper form.
Targeted Beneficiaries	Residents of India, including individuals, HUFs, trusts, universities, and charitable institutions.
Funding Mechanism	The Sovereign Gold Bonds are issued by the *Reserve Bank of India (RBI)* on behalf of the *Government of India. This ensures a sovereign guarantee for both the principal and interest payments. The bonds are made available for subscription in tranches. The RBI notifies the terms and conditions for each tranche, including the subscription dates and issue price, which is based on the average closing price of gold of 999 purity* published by the India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA). SGBs are sold through various channels, including *scheduled commercial banks (excluding small finance banks), designated post offices, Stock Holding Corporation of India Limited (SHCIL), and recognized stock exchanges like NSE and BSE*.
Features	Sovereign gold Bonds are issued in 1-gram denominations with an 8-year tenure and early exit from the 5th year. The minimum investment is 1 gram, a maximum 4 kg for individuals, and 20 kg for trusts. Benefits include security, interest, and loan collateral.

What are the concerns regarding sovereign gold bonds?

High Cost of Financing: The government perceives the cost of financing its fiscal deficit through SGBs as disproportionately high compared to the benefits provided to investors. This perception has led to a significant reduction in the issuance of SGBs, dropping from ten tranches annually to just two.
Limited Issuance in Current Financial Year: In the financial year 2024-25, no new sovereign gold bonds have been issued so far, and net borrowing through these bonds has been significantly reduced from previous estimates.
Market Competition from Physical Gold: The recent reduction in customs duty on gold from 15% to 6% has led to a surge in demand for physical gold. Investors may prefer holding physical gold over waiting for returns from debt securities like SGBs, which require maturity periods before realizing gains.

What are the challenges due to the import of Gold?

Impact on Trade Deficit: Gold imports are a major contributor to India’s trade deficit, with a record $14.8 billion spent in November 2024, which weakened the rupee. Between 2016 and 2020, gold imports made up 86% of the country’s gold supply, leading to significant foreign exchange outflows and economic instability.
Encouragement of Smuggling: High import duties on gold have driven a rise in smuggling, with 65% to 75% of smuggled gold entering India through air routes. This illegal trade undermines government revenue and complicates market regulation.

Way forward:

Increase Liquidity and Accessibility: Similar to gold-backed ETFs in the U.S. and Gold Bullion Securities in Australia, India can enhance the liquidity of SGBs by allowing them to be traded on stock exchanges, providing easy access and better market engagement for investors.
Encourage Regular Investments: Drawing inspiration from Germany’s gold savings plans, India can introduce flexible investment options such as monthly or quarterly contributions, enabling dollar-cost averaging and attracting retail investors over time.

Mains PYQ:

Q Craze for gold in Indian has led to surge in import of gold in recent years and put pressure on balance of payments and external value of rupee. In view of this, examine the merits of Gold Monetization scheme. (UPSC IAS/2015)

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

[pib] National Wildlife Health Policy

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

Why in the News?

The Central Zoo Authority has initiated the development of the National Wildlife Health Policy (NWHP) through a consultative workshop held in New Delhi.

About the National Wildlife Health Policy (NWHP):

Details	An initiative launched by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) to improve wildlife health and control zoonotic diseases. CZA, established in 1992 under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, is a statutory autonomous body under the MoEFCCC. Part of the National Wildlife Action Plan (2017-31) and follows the One Health approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health.
Aims and Objectives	Prevent and Control Zoonotic Diseases: Strengthen monitoring and control of diseases. Improve Disease Surveillance: Develop systems for early epidemic detection. Promote One Health Principles: Integrate human, animal, and environmental health. Community Advocacy: Increase awareness on wildlife health and conservation.
Programs/Initiatives Under the Policy	Wildlife Health Management Unit (WHMU): A dedicated unit to implement wildlife health programs. Disease Surveillance and Early Detection: Early detection of diseases, especially in protected areas. Biosecurity Protocols: Strengthen measures to minimize disease risks. Epidemic Preparedness and Response: Response strategies for wildlife disease outbreaks. One Health Approach Integration: Coordination between health sectors for better management.
Structural Mandate and Implementation	Wildlife Health Management Unit (WHMU) (proposed) to oversee wildlife health programs. Collaboration Across Agencies: Coordination with MoEF&CC, Wildlife Institutes, and state wildlife authorities. Surveillance and Monitoring: Monitor and track wildlife diseases, with research support from Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI). Capacity Building: Training programs for wildlife health professionals. Funding and Resources: Significant resources for surveillance, research, and capacity building.

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

IPBES Report, 2024

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

Why in the News?

The 11th plenary of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) took place in Namibia to discuss key scientific findings and evidence addressing the global biodiversity crisis.

About IPBES

IPBES aims to improve the interface between science and policy on biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Membership: Comprises over 130 member governments.
Purpose: Provides scientific assessments to guide governments, the private sector, and civil society in decision-making on biodiversity and ecosystems.
Establishment:
- Formally established in April 2012 when 90 countries signed its founding statement.
- Originated from a 2010 UN General Assembly resolution urging the UN Environment Programme to convene a meeting for its formation.
Structural Mandate:
- Led by a Plenary (main decision-making body) with representatives from member states.
- Operates on a consensus principle, meeting annually to decide on work programs, budgets, and reports.
Key Functions:
- Assessments: Develop global and regional assessments on biodiversity themes.
- Policy Support: Provide tools and methodologies for policymakers.
- Capacity Building: Enhance knowledge and capabilities among members.
- Outreach: Ensure effective communication and impact.
Notable Achievements:
- 2019: Released the Global Assessment Report on biodiversity and ecosystem services.
- 2020: Preliminary report on international cooperation to reduce pandemic risks.
- 2021: Co-sponsored a biodiversity and climate change workshop report with IPCC.
- 2022: Awarded the Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity, shared with IPCC.
Unique Contributions:
- Introduced the term “Nature’s Contributions to People” (NCPs) as an alternative to ecosystem services.
- Compiles knowledge from diverse sources, including scientific literature, indigenous knowledge, and local expertise.

Key Highlights on the Global Environment:

Biodiversity Loss: 1 million species face extinction due to habitat destruction, climate change, and pollution.
Climate Change Impact: Global warming is significantly threatening ecosystems and species.
Deforestation: Large-scale deforestation disrupts ecosystems and contributes to carbon emissions.
Water Scarcity: Freshwater ecosystems are under threat from pollution and over-extraction.
Ecosystem Services: Decline in vital services like clean air, water, and food.
Global Cooperation: Urgent need for global action to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable development.
Biodiversity and Health: Emphasis on the One Health approach to link human, animal, and environmental health.

Key Highlights on the Asian Region:

Biodiversity: Asia hosts half the world’s biodiversity but faces major threats from habitat loss and climate change.
Pollution and Urbanization: Rapid urbanization is increasing pollution, affecting health and the environment.
Climate Change: Vulnerable to floods, droughts, and rising sea levels impacting agriculture and settlements.
Forest Loss: Deforestation, especially in Indonesia, India, and Malaysia, threatens ecosystems.
Marine Biodiversity: Marine life is under pressure from overfishing and pollution.
Sustainable Agriculture: Promoting sustainable farming to reduce environmental impact.
Protected Areas: Despite progress, conservation management remains a challenge.

PYQ:

[2012] The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment describes the following major categories of ecosystem services-provisioning, supporting, regulating, preserving and cultural. Which one of the following is supporting service?

(a) Production of food and water

(b) Control of climate and disease

(d) Maintenance of diversity

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