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  • The poultry industry needs urgent reforms

    Why in the news?

    The current outbreak of H5N1 was a disaster waiting to happen, as experts have been sounding alarm bells on the unsafe conditions at industrial livestock production for more than 10 years now.

    Scale of spreading H5N1 virus:

    • Global Spread of H5N1 in humans: The H5N1 virus has spread globally, affecting various species including humans, polar bears in the Arctic, and seals and seagulls in Antarctica.
    • In India Spread of H5N1 in humans:  The first H5N1 patient was reported in Maharashtra in 2006. An outbreak in December 2020 and early 2021 spread across 15 States
    • Human Fatality Rate: As per WHO, the fatality rate for H5N1 among humans is estimated at 52%, with 463 deaths recorded since 2003 out of 888 diagnosed cases.
    • Transmission from Birds and Contaminated Environments: Almost all human infections with H5N1 are linked to close contact with infected birds or contaminated environments, emphasizing the importance of biosecurity measures.
    • Spread in other species: This pathogen has crossed many species barriers, causing mortality among the polar bears in the Arctic and seals and seagulls in Antarctica.

    Causes for the spread of H5N1 (avian influenza or bird flu) infection:

    • Contact with infected birds: Humans can contract H5N1 if they come into direct contact with the body fluids, such as saliva, respiratory droplets, or feces, of infected birds.
    • Poultry Trade and Movement: The transportation and trade of infected poultry, poultry products, and crowded live poultry markets provide an environment for the virus to spread between birds and potentially to humans.
    • Antibiotic Resistance: The 269th Law Commission of India Report in 2017 highlighted evidence from the Tata Memorial Centre regarding the use of non-therapeutic antibiotics in poultry farming, leading to antibiotic resistance due to unhygienic living conditions.
    • Environmental Factors: Factors like proximity to bodies of water, reduced rainfall, and presence near major highways have been associated with increased risk of H5N1 outbreaks. These environmental conditions may facilitate the spread of the virus.

    Regulation: The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has classified poultry units with more than 5,000 birds as a polluting industry that requires compliance and regulatory consent to establish and operate.

    Way Forward:

    • Draft Rules for Welfare: The Law Commission 269th recommended a set of draft rules for the welfare of chickens in the meat and egg industries, aligning with existing laws and international best practices for animal care, waste management, and antibiotic use.
    • Weaknesses in Draft Rules: The Draft Rules for the egg industry released by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare in 2019 were criticized for being weak and tokenistic, failing to meet the recommendations of the Law Commission.
    • Need for Oversight and Enforcement: Given the reclassification of the poultry industry as a highly polluting ‘orange category’ industry by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), strict oversight for compliance and enforcement of environmental regulations is essential.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What is the basic principle behind vaccine development? How do vaccines work? What approaches were adopted by the Indian vaccine manufacturers to produce COVID-19 vaccines? (UPSC IAS/2022)

  • The rising share of Personal Income Tax and Indirect Tax is a concern

    Why in the news?

    Recent data show that Personal Income Tax Collections have increased, while collections from Corporate Taxes have reduced.

    The present context of the rising share of Personal Income Tax and Indirect Tax:

    • Shift in Tax Composition: The data illustrates a significant shift in the composition of tax revenue, with personal income tax forming a larger share compared to corporate tax. This trend is accentuated by the sharp decline in corporate tax following the 2019 tax cuts.
    • Progressive vs. Regressive Taxation: Direct taxes, such as personal income tax, are considered progressive as they are based on income levels, whereas indirect taxes, like GST, are regressive, impacting all consumers uniformly regardless of their income.
      • The increasing share of indirect taxes implies a heavier burden on lower-income individuals.
    • Trend in Tax Composition: Chart 2 demonstrates a historical trend where indirect taxes had been decreasing since the 1980s, whereas direct taxes were on the rise. However, recent years have witnessed a reversal of this trend, with indirect taxes increasing and direct taxes declining.
    • International Comparison: Comparisons with BRICS economies indicate that India’s effective personal income tax rate is among the highest. This implies that Indian taxpayers may face relatively higher tax rates compared to individuals in other emerging economies.

    Concerns due to rising share of Personal Income Tax and Indirect Tax:

    • Impact on Middle and Lower Income Groups: The rising share of personal income tax and indirect taxes places a greater burden on poorer citizens and the middle class. This is particularly concerning as the majority of personal income tax filers fall within the ₹1 lakh-₹5 lakh annual income bracket, indicating that middle-income earners are disproportionately affected.
    • Comparison with BRICS Economies: Data comparisons with BRICS economies reveal that India’s effective personal income tax rate is among the highest. This suggests that individuals in India may be facing relatively higher tax rates compared to their counterparts in other emerging economies.
    • Concern for Equity and Economic Stability: The data underscores a growing concern regarding the equitable distribution of the tax burden. The heavier reliance on personal income tax and indirect taxes may exacerbate income inequality and strain the finances of middle and lower-income households.

    Way Forward:

    • Progressive Tax Reforms: Implementing progressive tax reforms can help alleviate the burden on middle and lower-income groups. This could involve revising tax brackets and rates to ensure that higher-income individuals contribute proportionally more to tax revenue.
    • Enhanced Direct Tax Compliance: Improving direct tax compliance measures, such as increasing tax enforcement efforts and reducing tax evasion loopholes, can help enhance revenue collection from high-income individuals and corporations.

    Mains PYQ 

    Q What is the meaning of the term ‘tax expenditure’? Taking housing sector as an example, discuss how it influences the budgetary policies of the government. (UPSC IAS/2013)

  • Court’s nudge on Hospital charges, a reform opportunity

    Why in the news? 

    The SC while hearing a PIL in February’24, directed the Central Government to find ways to regulate the rates of Hospital Procedures in the Private sector.

    • The SC also warned against applying Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) rates for treatment services at private healthcare facilities until standardized rates are set.

    About Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) Rates:

    CGHS is a health care scheme provided by the Indian Government for its central government employees and pensioners.

    • Commencement Year: 1954
    • Objective: To provide comprehensive health coverage to Central Government Employees (Allopathy/Homoeopathy)
    • Present change: The rates of the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) for general surgery have been revised since February 2024.

    Benchmark for Pricing:

    • Standard Treatment Guidelines (STGs): These can establish relevant clinical needs, the nature and extent of care, and the costs of total inputs required.
      • They address confounders and ensure clinical autonomy while enabling the valuation of healthcare resources consumed for precise cost determination.
    • Pooled payments by government: Formulating and adopting STGs require providers’ revenues to be tied to fewer payers.
      • This necessitates reimbursements from pooled payments with low Out-Of-Pocket (OOP) payment levels, supported by the government.
    • Coordination between payers and providers: Governments can support the agreement on pricing that provides a reasonable and sustainable surplus over input costs.
      • However, the ability of providers to access markets with OOP payments could hinder this effort.

    Challenges faced during benchmarking of the price:

    • Private sector issues 
        • Private sector dominance: In India, over half of the total health expenditure is OOP, with the private sector predominantly composed of small-scale providers. Standardizing rates faces implementation uncertainties, and enforcement mechanisms for adherence remain unclear.
        • Resistance from providers: Concerns arise about the feasibility of regulatory measures if providers do not adhere to prescribed procedure rates, as seen in various health schemes.
    • Weak implementation
      • Limitations of regulations: While price caps can influence behavior in the short term, weak enforcement mechanisms lead to temporary effects as the overall environment remains unchanged.
      • Enforcement challenges: Despite suggested measures, enforcement remains weak, with only a fraction of states and union territories implementing the Clinical Establishment Act.
    • Data-related issues: Although the insurance industry initiated STGs for hospitals in 2010, progress was hindered by a lack of representative and accurate costing data due to limited participation from private hospitals.

    Government Initiatives:

    • Developing STGs: The Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana and the Department of Health Research have made significant strides in developing STGs for common conditions and adopting a comprehensive costing framework.
    • Efforts are also ongoing to create an Indian version of Diagnostics-Related Groups (DRGs)

    Way Forward:

    • Addressing anticipated challenges: Anticipated challenges in implementing rate standardization policies need to be identified and addressed proactively to ensure successful outcomes.
    • Evidence-based policy: Conduct rigorous research and evaluation to generate evidence on the impact of regulatory measures on affordability, care quality, and provider behavior, informing future policy decisions.
    • Ensuring broader stakeholder participation: It is essential to involve a wide range of stakeholders in the development and implementation of rate standardization policies to increase their effectiveness and acceptance.

    Mains PYQ 

    Q Public health system has limitation in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you suggest? (UPSC IAS/2015)

  • Chin-Kuki-Zo Tribes: Backdrop of Ethnic Conflict in Manipur

    Why in the news?

    Manipur CM took it to social media where he alleged an “unnatural growth” in the population of the “Chin-Kuki-Zo” tribes in the state, posing a perceived threat to indigenous communities and national security.

    About Chin-Kuki-Zo Tribes

    Chin Tribe Kuki Tribe Zo Tribe
    Ethnic Composition Major ethnic group in Myanmar’s Chin State; known for distinct customs and language. Heterogeneous group in Northeast India; recognized for diverse subtribes. Diverse ethnic group in Northeast India, Myanmar, and parts of Bangladesh.
    Geographical Distribution Primarily in Myanmar’s Chin State; significant populations in Indian states like Mizoram. Mainly in Northeast India; also found in Chin State, Myanmar. Inhabits Northeast India, particularly Mizoram and Manipur; also in parts of Myanmar and Bangladesh.
    Language Chin language, part of Kuki-Chin subgroup of Tibeto-Burman family. Kuki-Chin languages; various dialects with distinct variations. Mizo-Kuki-Chin languages; different dialects within Tibeto-Burman family.
    Culture and Traditions Vibrant music, dance, festivals; celebrates Chin National Day. Rich oral traditions, folk music; celebrates festivals like Chavang Kut. Rich oral literature, vibrant festivals; celebrates Chapchar Kut and Mim Kut.
    Livelihood Historically practiced subsistence agriculture; now diversified livelihoods. Historically practiced shifting (Jhum) cultivation; now engaged in various occupations. Historically practiced shifting (Jhum) cultivation; now diverse livelihood patterns.
    Religion Predominantly Christianity with some traditional animistic beliefs. Predominantly Christianity with traditional animistic practices. Predominantly Christianity with remnants of traditional beliefs.
    Socio-Political Organization Advocates for cultural identity and rights; e.g., Chin National Front. Promotes Kuki identity; active organizations like Kuki National Organization. Promotes Zo identity; e.g., Zomi Council and Mizo Zirlai Pawl.

    Issues with their migration

    The Chin-Kuki-Zo tribes in Manipur are contributing to the conflict in the state due to various factors.

    • There have been longstanding demands from various tribal groups for greater recognition of their ethnic identity and autonomy within Manipur.
    • Land ownership and control are significant issues among the Chin-Kuki-Zo tribes in Manipur.
    [2016]  Consider the following pairs: (2016)

    Community sometimes  mentioned in the news In the affairs of
    1. Kurd Bangladesh
    2. Madhesi Nepal
    3. Rohingya Myanmar

    Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

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

  • RBI’s New Guidelines for Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs)

    Why in the news?

    The RBI has introduced updated guidelines for Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs) through a master direction, effective from April 24, 2024.

    What is an Asset Reconstruction Company (ARC)?

    Description
    About ARC is a special financial institution that acquires debtors from banks at a mutually agreed value and attempts to recover the debts or associated securities.
    Regulation
    • ARCs are registered under the RBI.
    • Regulated under the SARFAESI Act, 2002 (Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Securities Interest Act).
    Objective ARCs take over a portion of the bank’s non-performing assets (NPAs) and engage in asset reconstruction or securitization, aiming to recover the debts.
    Functions
    • Asset Reconstruction: Acquisition of bank loans or other credit facilities for realization.
    • Securitization: Acquisition of financial assets by issuing security receipts.
    Foreign Investment 100% FDI allowed in ARCs under the automatic route.
    Limitiations
    • ARCs are prohibited from undertaking lending activities.
    • They can only engage in securitization and reconstruction activities.
    Working
    • Bank with NPA agrees to sell it to ARC at a mutually agreed value.
    • ARC transfers assets to trusts under SARFAESI Act.
    • Upfront payment made to bank, rest through Security Receipts.
    • Recovery proceeds shared between ARC and bank.
    Security Receipts Issued to Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs) for raising funds to acquire financial assets.
    Significance
    • Banks can clean up their balance sheets and focus on core banking activities.
    • Provides a mechanism for resolution of NPAs and debt recovery.

    What are the new guidelines laid out by the RBI?

    • Enhanced Capital Requirements:
        • Minimum Capital Requirement Increase: ARCs are now mandated to maintain a minimum capital requirement of Rs 300 crore, a significant increase from the previous Rs 100 crore stipulation established on October 11, 2022.
        • Transition Period for Compliance: Existing ARCs are granted a transition period to reach the revised Net Owned Fund (NOF) threshold of Rs 300 crore by March 31, 2026.
        • Interim Requirement: However, by March 31, 2024, ARCs must possess a minimum capital of Rs 200 crore to comply with the new directives.
    • Supervisory Actions for Non-Compliance:
        • ARCs failing to meet the prescribed capital thresholds will face supervisory action, potentially including restrictions on undertaking additional business until compliance is achieved.
    • Expanded Role for Well-Capitalized ARCs:
      • Empowerment of Well-Capitalized ARCs: ARCs with a minimum NOF of Rs 1000 crore are empowered to act as resolution applicants in distressed asset scenarios.
      • Investment Opportunities: These ARCs are permitted to deploy funds in government securities, scheduled commercial bank deposits, and institutions like SIDBI and NABARD, subject to RBI specifications. Additionally, they can invest in short-term instruments such as money market mutual funds, certificates of deposit, and corporate bonds commercial papers.
      • Investment Cap: Investments in short-term instruments are capped at 10% of the NOF to mitigate risk exposure.

    PYQ:

    [2018] With reference to the governance of public sector banking in India, consider the following statements:

    1. Capital infusion into public sector banks by the Government of India has steadily increased in the last decade.
    2. To put the public sector banks in order, the merger of associate banks with the parent State Bank of India has been affected.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • [pib] Critical Minerals Summit

    Why in the news?

    The Ministry of Mines has organized a pivotal summit in New Delhi aimed at fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and driving innovation in Critical Mineral beneficiation and processing.

    What are Critical Minerals?

    • Critical Minerals are indispensable for economic development and national security, with their scarcity or concentration in specific regions posing potential supply chain vulnerabilities.
    • The declaration and identification of Critical Minerals is an ongoing process, influenced by technological advancements, market dynamics, and geopolitical factors.

    Critical Minerals in India:

    • India has identified 30 Critical Minerals (July 2023) based on factors like disruption potential, import reliance, and cross-sectoral usage.
      • Antimony, Beryllium, Bismuth, Cobalt, Copper, Gallium, Germanium, Graphite, Hafnium, Indium, Lithium, Molybdenum, Niobium, Nickel, PGE, Phosphorous, Potash, Rare Earth Elements, Rhenium, Silicon, Strontium, Tantalum, Tellurium, Tin, Titanium, Tungsten, Vanadium, Zirconium, Selenium and Cadmium.

    Critical Minerals

    Global Perspective:

    Various nations have outlined their lists of Critical Minerals based on unique circumstances:

    • The US recognizes 50 minerals critical for national security and economic development.
    • Japan has identified 31 minerals crucial for its economy.
    • The UK, EU, and Canada have their respective lists, reflecting their strategic priorities.

    India became the 14th member of the Mineral Security Partnership (MSP) in June 2023. 

    • MSP seeks to bolster critical minerals supply chains to support economic prosperity and climate objectives.
    • It seeks to ensure that critical minerals are produced, processed and recycled by catalyzing investments from governments and private sector across the full value chain.
    • Members: The other member countries are United States, Australia, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, the Republic of Korea, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the European Commission.

    Note: Copper, gold and silver are not on the list of minerals under MSP (Wiki).

    Various Government Initiatives:

    • MMDR Act Amendment (2023):   24 minerals were designated as critical and strategic under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act.
    • National Mineral Policy (2019): The updated policy emphasizes the exploration and exploitation of Critical Minerals to harness India’s mineral potential effectively.
    • Khanij Bidesh India Ltd (KABIL): A joint venture comprising National Aluminium Company Ltd (NALCO), Hindustan Copper Ltd (HCL), and Mineral Exploration Corporation Ltd (MECL), KABIL aims to secure a consistent supply of Critical Minerals by acquiring and developing assets overseas.
    • Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL): It is a PSU that plays a significant role in the research and production of rare earth minerals.

    India’s Critical Mineral Imports:

    • Lithium Imports: In FY23, India imported 2,145 tonnes of lithium carbonate and lithium oxide, costing Rs 732 crore.
    • Nickel and Copper Imports: The country imported 32,000 tonnes of unwrought nickel and 1.2 million tonnes of copper ore, costing Rs 6,549 crore and Rs 27,374 crore, respectively.
    • Import Dependence: India relies entirely on imports for lithium and nickel, and 93% for copper.

    Country-wise dependence:

    1. China: India heavily relies on China for the import of critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, and graphite.
    2. Australia: India is actively engaged with Australia for acquiring mineral assets, particularly lithium and cobalt, to secure its supply chain for critical minerals.
    3. Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile: India is engaging with these countries, known for their reserves of battery metals like lithium and cobalt, to diversify its sources for critical minerals.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] With reference to the management of minor minerals in India, consider the following statements:

    1. Sand is a ‘minor mineral’ according to the prevailing law in the country.
    2. State governments have the power to grant mining leases of minor minerals, but the powers regarding the formation of rules related to the grant of minor minerals lie with the Central Government.
    3. State Governments have the power to frame rules to prevent illegal mining of minor minerals.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 3

    (b) 2 and 3

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Why the Thar Desert on the borders of India and Pakistan is getting greener?

    Why in the News?

    Rajasthan’s barren Thar Desert may turn green, says a recent study in the journal Earth’s Future.

    Thar Desert

    • The Thar Desert is the 18th largest subtropical desert globally and is one of the most densely populated deserts.
    • Approximately 40% of the human population in Rajasthan resides in the Thar Desert.
    • It extends from the Sutlej River and is bounded by the Rann of Kutch, the Aravalli Mountains, and the Indus River.
    • About 85% of the Thar Desert is located in India, with the remainder in Pakistan.
    • In India, it spans across Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, and Punjab as well.
    • Civilizations are believed to have thrived in the Thar region around 50,000 years ago across the extinct Saraswati River.
    • The Desert National Park (home to the endangered Great Indian Bustard, desert fox, desert cat, blackbuck, and Indian gazelle) is situated in the Thar Desert in the northwest Indian state of Rajasthan.

    Why is the Thar desert getting greener?

    • Climate Change Effects:
        • Alteration of Weather Patterns: Climate change is causing shifts in rainfall distribution in the thar desert area.
        • Potential for Vegetation Growth: The increased precipitation could provide favorable conditions for vegetation growth, contributing to the greening of the desert.
    • Indian Monsoon Dynamics:
        • Westward Extension of Indian Monsoon: The Indian monsoon, known for bringing heavy rainfall to eastern India, is now extending further westward into regions like the Thar Desert.
        • Impact on Moisture and Rainfall: This change in monsoon dynamics could lead to increased moisture and rainfall in the desert region, facilitating the growth of vegetation.
    • Expansion of Indian Ocean Warm Pool (IOWP):
        • Influence on Monsoon Patterns: The Indian Ocean Warm Pool (IOWP) influences monsoon patterns and rainfall distribution over the Indian subcontinent.
        • Westward Expansion due to Climate Change: Climate change is causing the IOWP to expand westward, potentially resulting in increased rainfall over semi-arid regions like the Thar Desert and promoting greening.
    • Water Management Practices:
        • Contribution to Greening: Effective water management practices, such as rainwater harvesting and irrigation techniques like johad, kuis, and kunds, may be playing a role in the greening of the Thar Desert.
        • Utilization of Water Resources: By harnessing and efficiently utilizing available water resources, local communities and authorities can support vegetation growth and ecosystem restoration efforts in the desert.
    • Introduction of Irrigation  
      • Commercial Cropping: Irrigation was introduced during British colonial rule in the 19th and 20th centuries to convert arid and semi-arid ecosystems into cropland.
      • Restrictions on Grazing: The right to graze animals was restricted to landowners who cultivated crops, leading to the transformation of nomadic pastoralists into sedentary agro-pastoralists.

    PYQ:

    [2018] Which of the following leaf modifications occur(s) in the desert areas to inhibit water loss?

    1. Hard and waxy leaves
    2. Tiny leaves
    3. Thorns instead of leaves

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 2 and 3 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

    [2020] The process of desertification does not have climate boundaries. Justify with examples.

    [2013] Major hot deserts in northern hemisphere are located between 20-30 degree north and on the western side of the continents. Why?

  • [pib] Launching of LSAM 20 (Yard 130)  

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Navy has inducted the ‘Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile Barge, LSAM 20 (Yard 130) into its fleet.

    What is LSAM 20?

    • LSAM 20 (Yard 130) is the Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile Barge (Storage) inducted by the Indian Navy.  (built by MSME Shipyard, M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, Thane).
    • LSAM 20 facilitates transportation, embarkation, and disembarkation of articles/ammunition to IN Ships.
    • These Barges are indigenously designed and built under relevant Naval Rules and Regulations of the Indian Register of Shipping.

    Objective 

    • A Torpedo Cum Missile Barge is a specialized vessel used by the Indian Navy to transport various types of ammunition, torpedoes, and missiles to operational areas.
    • These barges play a crucial role in providing logistical support to naval vessels by ensuring the uninterrupted transportation of essential military supplies. 

    PYQ:

    [2016] Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently?

    (a) Amphibious warfare ship

    (b) Nuclear-powered submarine

    (c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel

    (d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier

  • Towards a Green Growth: On the RBI and a Green Taxonomy

    Why in the news?

    Extreme weather conditions may pose a risk to inflation, along with prolonged geopolitical tensions that could keep crude oil prices volatile, the Reserve Bank’s April Bulletin said on April 23.

    RBI’s Monetary Policy Report on the impact of climate shock and extreme weather events on food inflation:

    • Effects of Food Inflation: The report highlights the significance of extreme weather events and climate shocks in affecting not only food inflation but also the broader impact on the natural Rate of Interest and Financial Stability.
    • Broader Economic Impact: Climate shocks and extreme weather events are mentioned to have a broader impact on the economy’s financial stability, indicating that disruptions in food production and supply chains due to these events can lead to inflationary pressures beyond just the food sector.
    • Use of Economic Modeling: The report mentions the utilization of a New-Keynesian model incorporating a physical climate risk damage function to estimate the macroeconomic impact of climate change. This likely includes projections on how climate shocks affect food production and subsequently food inflation.
    • Warning on Long-Term Output Reduction: The report warns that without climate mitigation policies, the long-term economic output could be lower by around 9% by 2050. This suggests that climate shocks and extreme weather events could have lasting effects on food production and inflation.
    • Potential for Inflation Hysteresis: There’s a warning about the potential for inflation hysteresis to become entrenched, which could lead to a de-anchoring of inflation expectations. This implies that persistent disruptions caused by climate shocks could lead to sustained increases in food inflation.

    Way Forward:

    • Need Investment in Climate Resilience: Governments and businesses can invest in climate-resilient agriculture practices and infrastructure to mitigate the adverse effects of extreme weather events on food production.
    • Need Diversification of Food Sources: Diversifying food sources can help reduce reliance on regions prone to climate-related disruptions. This could involve promoting local food production, supporting small-scale farmers, and investing in alternative food production methods such as vertical farming or hydroponics.

    Mains PYQ 

    Q What policy instruments were deployed to contain the great economic depression?

  • Anticyclones, hanging even now over India, link warming to heat | Explained

    Why in the news?

    The record warming of 2023 has so far not been fully explained since it was much warmer than expected just from the superposition of El Nino on global warming.

    About Anticyclone:

    • An anticyclone is a weather phenomenon defined as a large-scale circulation of winds around a central region of high atmospheric pressure, clockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and counterclockwise in the Southern Hemisphere.

    The link between ElNino and Anticyclone: 

    • El Nino events can lead to the formation of anticyclone events. During El Niño, the weakening or reversal of the Walker circulation and strengthening of the Hadley circulation caused warm ocean water to develop in the central and east-central equatorial Pacific.

    The link between anticyclone and heat 

    • Stability and Weather Patterns: Anticyclones are areas of high pressure in the atmosphere characterized by descending air, which stop the cloud formation and precipitation. This stable air mass tends to promote clear skies and can lead to prolonged periods of hot and dry weather.
    • Amplification by Global Warming: Studies suggest that global warming can intensify anticyclones, making them stronger and more persistent. Warmer temperatures due to climate change can enhance the evaporation of moisture from land and water surfaces, further reinforcing the stability of anticyclonic conditions.
    • Feedback Loop: Anticyclones can create a feedback loop with global warming. As anticyclones persist, they can exacerbate heatwaves by trapping heat near the surface, preventing it from escaping into the upper atmosphere. This trapped heat can then further strengthen the anticyclone, leading to a self-reinforcing cycle of heat and stability.

    What are the stages of early warnings?

    The stages of early warnings on the ‘ready-set-go’ system for disaster management

    • Ready: This stage involves providing a seasonal outlook based on background states and external factors like global warming and El Niño. The aim is to maximize the accuracy of longer-lead forecasts, enabling organizations like the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) and local governments to prepare their disaster response systems accordingly.
    • Set: In this stage, subseasonal predictions for weeks two to four are utilized. Resource allocations are made, and potential hotspots are identified to ensure that disaster preparedness is in place. This step involves moving resources, including personnel, to areas that are identified as at risk based on the extended range forecasts.
    • Go: The final stage, based on short- and medium-range forecasts (days 1-10), involves the activation of disaster response efforts. This includes implementing rescue operations, setting up hydration centers, heat shelters, and other necessary measures to manage the disaster effectively.

    Conclusion: All evidence suggests India’s prediction system and early warning systems continue to improve and the NDMA has worked these details well into its ‘ready-set-go’ system.The remaining challenges are to build resilience for the future by better predicting the trajectory of the weather at every location over India.

    Mains PYQ 

    Q Drought has been recognized as a disaster in view of its spatial expanse, temporal duration, slow onset and lasting effects on vulnerable sections. With a focus on the September 2010 guidelines from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), discuss the mechanisms for preparedness to deal with likely El Nino and La Nina fallouts in India.

    https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/anticyclones-hanging-even-now-over-india-link-warming-to-heat/article68117359.ece

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