💥Join UPSC 2027,2028 Mentorship (July Batch) + XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF
Talk to Mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

Subject: Conservation & Mitigation

1. Conservation Progs.
2. Worldwide initiatives
3. Mitigation Strategies
4. Conventions and Protocols

  • Study identifies sources of PM2.5 in northern India

    Why in the News?

    A recent study published in Nature Communications has analyzed the sources and health impacts of PM2.5 pollution in Northern India, particularly in the Indo-Gangetic Plain.

    About PM2.5

    • PM2.5 (Particulate Matter ≤2.5 microns) refers to tiny air pollutants small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream.
    • These fine particles come from both natural sources (like dust storms and wildfires) and human activities (like burning fossil fuels and industrial emissions).
    • PM2.5 poses severe health risks, contributing to respiratory diseases, heart conditions, and reduced lung function.
    • The oxidative potential of PM2.5 is an important indicator of its toxicity and ability to cause cellular damage.

    Key Findings of the Study

    1. Major Sources of PM2.5 in Northern India:
    • The study analyzed PM2.5 pollution across five locations in the Indo-Gangetic Plain, including Delhi and Kanpur.
    • Delhi: PM2.5 is mainly from vehicular emissions, fossil fuel burning, and residential heating.
    • Outside Delhi: It consists of ammonium sulfate, ammonium nitrate, and biomass-burning aerosols.
    1. PM2.5 Toxicity and Health Risks:
    • PM2.5 toxicity is linked to organic aerosols from inefficient combustion of biomass and fossil fuels.
    • Traffic emissions and residential fuel burning significantly contribute to PM2.5-related health risks.
    1. Traffic as a Major Contributor:
    • Hydrocarbon-like organic aerosols (HOA) from vehicular emissions were highest at urban roadside sites in Delhi (8 μg/m³).
    • HOA accounts for 50% of fossil fuel-derived aerosols, increasing to 40% in warmer months.
    1. Winter Pollution Due to Residential Heating and Cooking:
    • Cow dung combustion for heating and cooking in winter increases organic aerosols, with levels 10 times higher than in summer due to biomass burning and shallow boundary layers.
    1. India’s PM2.5 Toxicity Among the Highest Globally:
    • The study found that PM2.5 oxidative potential (toxicity) in Indian cities is up to 5 times higher than in Chinese and European cities.

    PYQ:

    [2016] In the cities of our country, which among the following atmospheric gases are normally considered in calculating the value of the Air Quality Index?

    1. Carbon dioxide
    2. Carbon monoxide
    3. Nitrogen dioxide
    4. Sulphur dioxide
    5. Methane

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
    (b) 2, 3 and 4 only
    (c) 1, 4 and 5 only
    (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

     

  • ‘Kundi’ Traditional Water Harvesting

    Why in the News?

    With summers nearing, the arid and semi-arid regions of Rajasthan particularly in Churu, Jaisalmer, and Barmer districts largely rely on ‘Kundi’ system of traditional rainwater harvesting.

    kundi

    What is Kundi System?

    • Found in Churu, Rajasthan, kundis (or kunds) are traditional rainwater harvesting structures designed for storing drinking water.
    • A circular or rectangular pit, often lined with bricks or stones, is dug into the ground.
    • Rainwater is collected through sloped catchments and funneled into the kundi for storage.
    • A lid or stone slab covers the pit to prevent contamination and evaporation.
    • These structures help communities survive in regions with scarce groundwater and unpredictable rainfall.

    Other Traditional Water Harvesting Systems in India

    Khadin (Rajasthan) Earthen embankment (bund) built across slopes to retain surface runoff for moisture conservation and groundwater recharge, used since the 15th century.
    Johads (Rajasthan, Haryana) Small crescent-shaped embankments that store rainwater, recharge groundwater, prevent runoff, and improve water availability.
    Baolis / Stepwells (Rajasthan, Gujarat, Delhi, MP) Deep stepwells with stairs leading to groundwater storage, used for drinking, irrigation, and bathing; famous examples include Rani ki Vav (UNESCO site) and Agrasen ki Baoli.
    Virdas (Gujarat – Kutch region) Shallow wells dug in depressions to separate fresh rainwater from saline groundwater, used by Maldhari pastoralists for drinking and livestock.
    Tankas (Rajasthan, Gujarat) Circular underground tanks built in homes and temples for storing rainwater; lined with lime for purification, found in Bikaner, Jaisalmer, and Dwarka.
    Zabo (Nagaland) Terraced ponds built on hill slopes to collect rainwater for drinking, irrigation, and livestock, preventing soil erosion and increasing groundwater recharge.
    Kuls (Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, J&K) Small channels (kuls) diverting glacial meltwater to fields for irrigation, made of stones, wood, and mud, and managed by local communities.
    Ahar-Pyne (Bihar, Jharkhand) Ancient system from the Mauryan period, where reservoirs (Ahar) collect rainwater, and channels (Pyne) distribute it for paddy cultivation.
    Eri (Tamil Nadu) Interconnected chain of tanks developed during the Chola period for irrigation, groundwater recharge, and flood control, still supporting agriculture.
    Surangam (Kerala, Karnataka) Horizontal tunnels dug into hillsides to extract water from aquifers, similar to Iran’s Qanat system, common in Malabar and Kasargod.
    Phad Irrigation (Maharashtra) Community-managed canal irrigation system drawing water from rivers, used in drought-prone areas, managed by a village council (patkari system).

     

    [UPSC 2016] With reference to the economic history of medieval India, the term ‘Araghatta refers to:

    (a) Bonded labour

    (b) Land grants made to military officers

    (c) Waterwheel used in the irrigation of land

    (d)  Wasteland converted to cultivated land

     

  • Species in news: Doomsday Fish

    Why in the News?

    Recent sightings of the rare oarfish, also known as the “Doomsday Fish,” near the shores of Baja California Sur, Mexico, have sparked speculation and social media frenzy.

    About the ‘Doomsday Fish’

    • Japanese Folklore calls the oarfish “Ryugu no tsukai” or “Sea God’s Palace Messenger” and believes its rare appearance signals an impending natural calamity.
    • The belief gained strength in 2011 when multiple oarfish washed ashore in Japan just before the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami (9.0 magnitude).
    • Some cultures also consider the oarfish a messenger of the deep, warning humans of major disturbances in the ocean.

    Popular Legends

    • Some scientists suggest that deep-sea fishlike oarfish may be sensitive to underwater vibrations from fault lines and could surface before an earthquake.
      • However, no conclusive scientific evidence supports this theory.
    • Powerful ocean currents, storms, or underwater disturbances may push weakened or dying oarfish toward the surface.
    • The El Niño phenomenon or changes in water temperature might also affect their movements.
    • A 2019 study in the Bulletin of the Seismological Society of America found no relationship between oarfish sightings and earthquakes in Japan.

    PYQ:

    [2017] Due to some reasons, if there is a huge fall in the population of species of butterflies, what could be its likely consequence/consequences?

    1. Pollination of some plants could be adversely affected.

    2. There could be a drastic increase in the fungal infections of some cultivated plants.

    3. It could lead to a fall in the population of some species of wasps, spiders and birds.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • [27th February 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Coal power is costing India up to 10% of its rice and wheat crops

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) “In spite of adverse environmental impact, coal mining is still inevitable for Development”. Discuss. (UPSC CSE 2017)

     

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on the diverse environmental impact of coal  (2017), and environmental impacts of coal-fired thermal plants(2014).

    India relies on coal for 65% of its electricity due to its low cost and large reserves. Coal-fired power plants release harmful gases like CO₂, SOx, NOx, and particulate matter, causing pollution and climate issues. Using Low NOx Burners with Over Fire Air technology can reduce NOx emissions by 45-80% without affecting power generation.

    Today’s editorial discusses pollution caused by coal-fired power plants in India. This information is relevant for GS Paper 3 in the UPSC Mains exam.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    New research from Stanford University in the US shows that coal-fired power plants are reducing India’s rice and wheat production, causing up to a 10% loss in several states.

    Why did the researchers focus on nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) emissions? 

    • Phytotoxic Effects on Crops: NO₂ is phytotoxic, meaning it directly harms plant health by interfering with cellular functions and enzymatic activities. Example: In agricultural areas near coal plants, NO₂ exposure leads to lower chlorophyll levels, reducing plant vitality and yield.
    • Formation of Secondary Pollutants: NO₂ contributes to the formation of ground-level ozone, which further damages crops by limiting photosynthesis and causing oxidative stress. Example: Increased ozone formation near coal hubs like Chhattisgarh exacerbates crop loss during peak growing seasons.
    • Limited Existing Research in India: While global studies link NO₂ to agricultural damage, there was no systematic study at the power-plant level in India. Example: This research fills the gap by connecting NO₂ emissions from coal plants directly to wheat and rice yield losses.
    • Satellite Data Availability: Advanced satellites like TROPOMI allow precise tracking of NO₂ concentrations, making it easier to study the pollutant’s widespread effects. Example: Researchers used satellite-derived vegetation indices (NIRv) to measure crop health across polluted regions.
    • High Contribution from Coal Plants: Coal-fired power plants are a major source of NO₂ emissions, especially in industrial and agricultural belts. Example: In Chhattisgarh, around 19% of monsoon-season NO₂ comes from coal plants, causing significant crop damage.

    How does this pollutant impact plant health and crop yield?

    • Disruption of Photosynthesis: NO₂ reduces the amount of sunlight available for photosynthesis by forming secondary pollutants like particulate matter. This limits energy production in plants. Example: In areas near coal plants, reduced sunlight exposure leads to a 5-10% decline in rice and wheat yields in states like West Bengal and Madhya Pradesh.
    • Cellular and Enzymatic Damage: NO₂ interferes with crucial cellular processes and enzymatic functions, weakening plant growth and reducing their ability to absorb nutrients. Example: Crops exposed to high NO₂ levels in Chhattisgarh show slower growth and lower productivity, especially during peak seasons.
    • Ozone Formation and Oxidative Stress: NO₂ contributes to ground-level ozone, which causes oxidative stress in plants, leading to leaf damage and reduced crop yields. Example: In Uttar Pradesh, where overall NO₂ levels are high, wheat crops suffer significant losses due to ozone-induced stress during the winter season.

    Which states show the highest agricultural losses?

    • Chhattisgarh: The most affected region with the highest share of NO₂ pollution from coal plants (19% during the monsoon and 12.5% in winter). It is a major hub for coal-fired power generation, leading to severe air pollution and crop yield losses.
    • West Bengal: There are significant NO₂ exposure from coal plants that affects 5.7% of cropland, with yield losses between 5-10% and even greater than 10% in some areas. The proximity of coal plants to fertile agricultural zones increases the impact on rice and wheat production.
    • Madhya Pradesh: About 5.9% of cropland near coal plants experiences 5-10% yield losses, while 11.9% of agricultural land could face losses exceeding 10%.
    • Uttar Pradesh: High overall NO₂ pollution, but only a small portion originates from coal-fired power plants. The other industrial sources dominate NO₂ emissions, yet coal plants still add to the burden on winter wheat yields.
    • Tamil Nadu: Low overall NO₂ levels but a large share comes from coal plants, disproportionately affecting local agriculture. The concentration of coal-fired power plants contributes a substantial portion of the region’s air pollution.

    What steps have been taken by the Indian government? 

    • Increased Budget Allocation for Coal Sector: The 2025-2026 Union Budget has increased the allocation for the Ministry of Coal by 255% over the revised estimates of FY 2024-2025, reflecting a focus on managing coal resources and addressing environmental concerns.
    • Pollution Control Mandates: The government has introduced emission norms for coal-fired power plants, requiring the installation of pollution control equipment like Flue Gas Desulphurization (FGD) to reduce nitrogen oxides (NO₂) and other pollutants.
    • Renewable Energy Promotion: Policies such as the National Solar Mission and incentives for renewable energy aim to reduce coal dependency and minimize air pollution while promoting cleaner energy alternatives.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Emission Regulations: Implement stricter NO₂ emission limits for coal-fired power plants, enforce regular monitoring, and expedite the adoption of advanced pollution control technologies like selective catalytic reduction (SCR).
    • Promote Sustainable Agriculture and Clean Energy: Support farmers in NO₂-affected regions with resilient crop varieties and promote a transition to renewable energy through increased investment in solar and wind infrastructure.

  • Species in news: Gharials

    Why in the News?

    Madhya Pradesh CM released 10 gharials into the Chambal River at the National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary in Morena.

    Species in news Gharials

    About Gharial

    • The gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) is a unique species of crocodilian, characterized by its long, slender snout, which is perfectly adapted for catching fish.
    • The species derives its name from the “ghara”, a bulbous growth found on the snouts of adult males, which aids in vocalization and mating displays.
    • It is a fish-eating crocodile native to the Indian subcontinent.
    • They are a crucial indicator of clean river water.

    Conservation Status:

    • Recognizing the rapid decline in gharial populations, India launched captive breeding and release programs in the late 1970s.
    • Between 1975 and 1982, the country established 16 captive breeding centers and 5 protected sanctuaries to ensure the survival of the species.
    • Gharials are ‘Critically Endangered’ in the IUCN Red List of Species.
    • The species is also listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
    • Today, gharials primarily survive in 5 major refuges:
    1. National Chambal Sanctuary (NCS) – The largest stronghold of gharials.
    2. Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh.
    3. Chitwan National Park in Nepal.
    4. Son River Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh.
    5. Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary in Odisha.

    PYQ:

    [2013] Consider the following fauna of India:

    1. Gharial

    2. Leatherback turtle

    3. Swamp deer

    Which of the above is/are endangered?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 1, 2 and 3

    (d) None

     

  • What is Black Plastic?

    Why in the News?

    A recent study suggested that black plastic contains harmful flame retardants, which may leach into food at hazardous levels.

    What is Black Plastic?

    • Black plastic is often made from recycled electronic waste like old computers, TVs, and appliances.
    • These electronics contain flame retardants (such as bromine-based compounds), heavy metals (lead, cadmium, mercury), and other hazardous chemicals.
    • Flame retardants are added to prevent fire hazards, but they can persist in recycled plastics.
    • Many of these chemicals are now banned in several countries due to their toxicity.
    • However, legacy plastics containing these substances continue to enter the recycling stream, leading to contamination of household products.

    Threats Posed by Black Plastic:

    • Contains Toxic Chemicals: Made from recycled e-waste, it may have flame retardants, heavy metals, and antimony.
    • Food Contamination: Heat and acidic foods can leach harmful chemicals into meals.
    • Environmental Impact: Difficult to recycle, it pollutes landfills and groundwater.
    • Health Risks: Linked to hormonal issues, neurological damage, and cancer.

    PYQ:

    [2019] Why is there a great concern about the ‘microbeads’ that are released into environment?

    (a) They are considered harmful to marine ecosystems.

    (b) They are considered to cause skin cancer in children.

    (c) They are small enough to be absorbed by crop plants in irrigated fields.

    (d) They are often found to be used as food adulterants.

     

  • NGT Report on Ganga Water Quality

    Why in the News?

    The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has raised concerns over the water quality of the Ganga at Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The river is failing to meet bathing standards due to high Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) and faecal coliform contamination.

    Key Findings of the Ganga Water Quality Assessment at Triveni Sangam:

    • Water is unsafe for bathing as per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) standards.
    • BOD levels exceeded the permissible limit of 3 mg/L on multiple days in January 2025.
    • Government releasing 10,000-11,000 cusecs of fresh water to improve quality.
    • Faecal coliform levels (E. coli) far exceed safe limits due to sewage contamination.
    • Safe limit: 2,500 MPN/100 ml; Detected levels: 49,000 MPN/100 ml (Ganga) and 33,000 MPN/100 ml (Yamuna).

    What is Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD)?

    • BOD measures the amount of oxygen required by bacteria to break down organic matter in water.
    • Higher BOD levels indicate higher organic pollution, which can lead to oxygen depletion and aquatic life destruction.
    • Safe limit for bathing water is below 3 mg/L.
    • Excessive BOD levels suggest sewage, industrial waste, or decomposing organic matter contamination.
    • BOD levels above safe limits can cause waterborne diseases and disrupt aquatic ecosystems.

    PYQ:

    [2017] Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) is a standard criterion for:

    (a) Measuring oxygen levels in blood

    (b) Computing oxygen levels in forest ecosystems

    (c) Pollution assay in aquatic ecosystems

    (d) Assessing oxygen levels in high-altitude regions

     

  • Parliamentary Panel recommends Paddy Residue MSP to curb Stubble Burning

    Why in the News?

    Recently, a parliamentary committee, led by Rajya Sabha MP Milind Deora, has suggested setting a minimum support price (MSP) for paddy residue. This aims to discourage farmers from burning stubble, which is a major cause of air pollution in Delhi.

    What were the observations made by the Parliamentary standing committee?

    • Stubble Burning as a Key Cause of Air Pollution: The committee acknowledged that stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana significantly contributes to Delhi’s air pollution during winter.
    • Farmers’ Constraints: Farmers burn stubble due to a short window (25 days) between paddy harvesting and wheat sowing.
    • State-wise Disparities: Punjab generates 16.1 million tonnes of non-basmati paddy straw annually, while Haryana generates only 4.04 million tonnes. Punjab also reported 10,990 stubble-burning incidents in 2023-24, compared to Haryana’s 1,406.
    • Existing Government Schemes: The Central government provides subsidies for crop residue management machinery, but high fuel costs make their usage unfeasible for many farmers.
    • Incentive Gap: Haryana provides higher financial support (₹7,000/acre for crop diversification, ₹4,000 for direct seeding of rice), whereas Punjab offers only ₹1,500 for direct seeding.
    • Technological Gaps: Even after mechanized harvesting, 10-15 cm of stubble remains in fields, which cannot be manually cleared due to labour shortages.

    What recommendations were given by the Panel?

    • Minimum Price for Paddy Residue: Establish a mechanism to determine a minimum price for paddy residue, similar to the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops, in consultation with the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). The benchmark price should be announced before the Kharif season to reflect residue collection costs.
    • Promote Short-Duration Paddy Varieties: Urge state governments to promote short-duration paddy varieties instead of long-duration ones like PUSA 44.
    • Unified National Policy: Implement a unified national policy to integrate agricultural residue into bioenergy generation, ensuring inter-ministerial coordination.
    • Real-time Forecasting: Establish real-time mapping of crop acreage and forecasting of crop maturity and weather patterns to estimate land under cultivation and assess district-wise crop yields for better planning.
    • Storage Facilities: Set up interim storage facilities in districts where industries or end-users are not available within a 20–50 km range to facilitate efficient crop residue collection and transport.
    • Incentives and Subsidies: Provide incentives for the transportation of stubble to discourage in-field burning and subsidize machinery for in-situ paddy straw management. Farmers should get a 50 percent subsidy for machinery and 80 percent for establishing centers for renting out machines for managing paddy straw.
    • Technological Advancements: Develop technology that combines the work of harvesters and cutters to completely clear stubble from fields and promote early-maturing crop varieties.

    What is Delhi govt’s 20-point Winter Action Plan?

    • Real-Time Monitoring and Special Task Force: The plan includes the use of drones for real-time monitoring of pollution hotspots, marking a shift from manual inventory methods. Additionally, a special task force will be formed to oversee pollution control efforts and ensure compliance with regulations across various sectors.
    • Control Measures for Pollution Sources: The action plan emphasizes controlling dust pollution through increased water sprinkling, deployment of anti-smog guns, and strict regulations on construction sites. It also addresses vehicular emissions by promoting work-from-home policies and considering the implementation of an odd-even vehicle rationing scheme during high pollution days.
    • Public Participation and Emergency Measures: The plan encourages public involvement through campaigns and initiatives aimed at reducing pollution, such as banning firecrackers and promoting eco-friendly practices.
      • Emergency measures like artificial rain are also proposed to mitigate severe pollution events expected around Diwali and during stubble burning seasons.

    Way forward: 

    • Sustainable Agricultural Practices & Farmer Incentives: Strengthen financial incentives for crop residue management, promote widespread adoption of short-duration paddy varieties, and enhance technological solutions for complete stubble removal to reduce reliance on burning.
    • Integrated Pollution Control & Public Awareness: Implement a coordinated air quality management framework involving real-time monitoring, stricter enforcement of emission norms, and large-scale public participation campaigns to promote eco-friendly practices and behavioural change.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata are the three Mega cities of the country but the air pollution is much more serious probelm in Delhi as compared to the other two. Why is this so? (UPSC IAS/2015)

  • What is the Aravalli Safari Park Project?

    Why in the News?

    The Haryana government has proposed an ambitious 3,858-hectare Aravalli Safari Park spread across Gurugram and Nuh, which aims to be the world’s largest safari park.

    About the Aravalli Range

    • The Aravalli Range is one of the oldest fold mountain ranges in the world, dating back to the Proterozoic era.
    • It stretches 692 km from Gujarat to Delhi, passing through Rajasthan and Haryana.
    • The range acts as a natural green barrier, preventing the expansion of the Thar Desert into eastern Rajasthan and the Gangetic plains.
    • Highest Peak: Guru Shikhar (1,722 meters) in Mount Abu, Rajasthan.
    • Rivers originating from the Aravalli Range:
      • Banas and Sahibi Rivers (tributaries of the Yamuna).
      • Luni River, which flows into the Rann of Kutch.
    • Rich in mineral resources, including copper, zinc, lead, and marble.
    • The Aravalli hills play a critical role in groundwater recharge, acting as natural aquifers.
    • 80% of the range is in Rajasthan, while the rest is in Haryana, Delhi, and Gujarat.

    What is the Aravalli Safari Park Project?

    • The Haryana government has proposed a 3,858-hectare Aravalli Safari Park, intended to be the world’s largest.
    • The project covers 2,574 hectares in Gurugram and 1,284 hectares in Nuh.
    • It will include animal enclosures, botanical gardens, aquariums, cable cars, hotels, and an animal hospital.
    • Initially managed by the Tourism Department, the project is now under the Forest Department, with an expert committee overseeing its execution.

    Why is there Opposition?

    • Ecological Concerns: The Aravallis prevent desertification, and large-scale construction could disrupt groundwater recharge and biodiversity.
    • Threat to Water Security: The region acts as an aquifer, and excessive tourism, vehicular traffic, and construction could worsen Gurugram and Nuh’s water crisis, already classified as “over-exploited” by the Central Ground Water Board.
    • Legal Violations: The project falls under protected forest areas, governed by:
      • Forest Conservation Act, 1980.
      • Punjab Land Preservation Act (PLPA), 1900, restricting deforestation.
      • T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad Judgment (1996), which extends legal protection to non-notified forest land.

    PYQ:

    [2011] The Himalayan Range is very rich in species diversity. Which one among the following is the most appropriate reason for this Phenomenon?

    (a) It has a high rainfall that supports luxuriant vegetative growth

    (b) It is a confluence of different bio-geographical zones.

    (c) Exotic and invasive species have not been introduced in this region.

    (d) It has less human interference.

     

  • Similipal Tiger Reserve

    Why in the News?

    The Similipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha has witnessed a significant reduction in poaching incidents following the installation of TrailGuard AI, an AI-powered early alert system that detects intruders in the forest.

    About Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR)

    • Located in Mayurbhanj District, Northern Odisha, characterized by hilly and undulating terrain with open grasslands and dense forests.
    • Twin peaks: Khairiburu and Meghashini, reaching 1,515 meters above sea level.
    • Inhabited by tribal communities such as Kolha, Santhala, Bhumija, Gondas, Khadia, Mankadia, and Sahara.
    • Declared a Tiger Reserve in 1956 and brought under Project Tiger in 1973.
    • Recognized as part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves in 2009.
    • Flora:
      • 1,078 species of plants, including 94 species of orchids.
      • Sal (Shorea robusta) is the dominant tree species.
    • Fauna:
      • Rich in wildlife, including Leopards, Elephants, Gaurs, Langurs, Barking Deer, Sloth Bears, Sambar, Pythons, Pangolins, and Flying Squirrels.
      • Diverse birdlife, including migratory species like Bar-Headed Geese and Brahmini Ducks.
      • Home to freshwater snails (Radix genus) in its water bodies.

    Melanistic Tigers of Similipal:

    • Similipal is the only place in the world where pseudo-melanistic tigers are found in the wild.
    • 27 of Odisha’s 30 tigers (AOTE-2023-24) live in Similipal, including 13 pseudo-melanistic tigers.
    • The unique black-striped pattern in these tigers is due to a mutation in the Taqpep gene.

     

    PYQ:

    [2011] Two important rivers – one with its source in Jharkhand (and known by a different name in Odisha), and another, with its source in Odisha – merge at a place only a short distance from the coast of Bay of Bengal before flowing into the sea. This is an important site of wildlife and biodiversity and a protected area.

    Which one of the following could be this?

    (a) Bhitarkanika

    (b) Chandipur-on-sea

    (c) Gopalpur-on-sea

    (d) Simlipal