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Subject: Conservation & Mitigation

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

  • In news: Nagarhole Tiger Reserve

    Why in the News?

    • Ashwatthama, a 38-year-old elephant, died of electrocution near Karnataka’s Nagarahole Tiger Reserve.
      • The High Court of Karnataka suo motu initiated a PIL petition to inquire about this incident attributed to a lack of care and diligence by concerned authorities.

    Nagarahole Tiger Reserve

    • Located in the Western Ghats in Karnataka; Spans over 643 square kilometers.
    • Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1955 and a tiger reserve in 1999.
    • Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is recognised as an Important Bird Area (IBA) and a Project Tiger, Project Elephant reserve.
    • Managed by the Karnataka Forest Department with efforts focused on conservation, ecotourism, and community engagement.
    • The reserve is crisscrossed by several rivers such as the Kabini River, Lakshmana Tirtha River, and Moyar River.
      • Flora and Fauna: Known for its diverse ecosystem, including tropical and moist deciduous forests, home to a variety of wildlife such as tigers, leopards, elephants, gaur, and several species of deer and birds.

    Protective Measures: Project Elephant

    • It was launched in the year 1992 as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme with the following objectives:
      • To protect elephants, their habitat & corridors
      • To address issues of man-animal conflict
      • The welfare of captive elephants
    • It covers 23 states across India.
    • The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change provides financial and technical support to major elephant range states in the country through the project.
    • It contributed to the increase in the wild elephant population from around 25,000 in 1992 to about 30,000 in 2021.

    Status of Elephant Conservation in India

    Details
    Population Estimate
    • India hosts the largest population of wild Asian Elephants (Elephas maximus), with around 29,964 individuals,
    • Approximately 60% of the global population (2017 census).
    Leading States Karnataka holds the highest number of elephants, followed by Assam and Kerala.
    Conservation Status
    • IUCN Red List:  Endangered.
    • CMS: Appendix I.
    • Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Listed under Schedule I,
    • CITES: Appendix I.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] With reference to Indian elephants, consider the following statements:

    1. The leader of an elephant group is a female.
    2. The maximum gestation period can be 22 months.
    3. An elephant can normally go on calving till the age of 40 years only.
    4. Among the States in India, the highest elephant population is in Kerala.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 4 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 3 and 4 only

  • India is the World’s Second Largest emitter of Nitrous Oxide

    Why in the News?

    • India ranks as the world’s second-largest contributor (after China) to nitrous oxide (N2O), a potent greenhouse gas (GHG), accounting for approximately 11% of global man-made emissions in 2020 as per data published in the journal Earth System Science Data.
      • The top five country emitters by volume of anthropogenic N2O emissions in 2020 were China (16.7%), India (10.9%), the United States (5.7%), Brazil (5.3%), and Russia (4.6%).

    About Nitrous Oxide

    • Nitrous oxide (N2O), a colourless and odourless gas, is a potent greenhouse gas, 300 times more powerful than CO2. Despite its small atmospheric fraction, it ranks third in concentration after CO2 and methane (CH4). It’s a crucial target for environmental research and efforts to mitigate climate change impacts.

    Sources of Emission:

    1. Natural Sources: N2O is naturally produced in processes such as microbial nitrogen cycling in soil and water bodies, volcanic activity, and biomass burning.
    2. Anthropogenic Activities: Human activities significantly contribute to N2O emissions, with the primary sources being:
    • Agricultural practices, including the use of nitrogen-based fertilizers and animal manure.
    • Industrial processes such as combustion of fossil fuels and wastewater treatment.
    • Combustion of biomass and waste.
    • Use of nitrous oxide in medical and dental procedures (as a sedative) and in food packaging.

    Impact on Climate Change:

    • Greenhouse Gas: N2O is a potent greenhouse gas with a global warming potential (GWP) much higher than that of carbon dioxide (CO2).
    • Ozone Depletion: In addition to its role in climate change, N2O also contributes to ozone depletion in the stratosphere, further exacerbating environmental concerns.

    Environmental and Health Effects:

    • Environmental Pollution: N2O emissions can lead to pollution of soil, water bodies, and air, affecting ecosystems and human health.
    • Health Risks: While N2O is relatively non-toxic at ambient levels, prolonged exposure or high concentrations can pose health risks, including respiratory issues and neurological effects.

    Global Nitrous Oxide Emissions

    • Atmospheric Concentration: The concentration of atmospheric N2O reached 336 parts per billion in 2022, about 25% above pre-industrial levels.
    • Next to Carbon Emissions: In comparison, the concentration of carbon dioxide was 417 parts per million in 2022.
    • Persistent Lifespan: Once emitted, N2O stays in the atmosphere for longer than the average human lifespan (117 years), making its climate and ozone impacts long-lived.
    • Contribution to Climate Change: These emissions are responsible for 6.4% of the effective radiative forcing of greenhouse gases and have added about 0.1°C to current global warming.
    • Impact of Nitrogen Fertilizers: N2O emissions from human activities have increased by 40% in the past four decades, with agricultural production using nitrogen fertilizers and animal manure contributing 74% of total anthropogenic N2O emissions in the last decade.

    Call for Action and Future Outlook

    • Scientists warn that anthropogenic N2O emissions must decline by at least 20% relative to 2019 levels by 2050 to align with net-zero emission pathways consistent with the Paris Agreement.
    • Nitrogen fertilizers, which are heavily subsidized in India, contribute significantly to N2O emissions. Urgent reforms are needed to promote alternative production systems and mitigate emissions.

    India’s Policy Initiatives to Curb Nitrogen Pollution

    • Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS) (2010): This policy encourages the adoption of controlled-release fertilizers to enhance nutrient management efficiency.
    • Soil Health Cards (2015): Provided to farmers, these cards offer insights into soil nutrient levels and tailored fertilizer recommendations, promoting balanced nutrient application.
    • Bharat Stage (BS VI) Emission Standards (2016): These stringent regulations for vehicles and industries aim to reduce the emission of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, thereby mitigating air and water pollution.
    • Nano Urea (2021): Marketed by the Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), Nano Urea is a patented fertilizer approved for commercial use, designed to curb excessive and indiscriminate conventional urea use while boosting crop yields.

    PYQ:

    [2016] Why does the Government of India promote the use of ‘Neem-coated Urea’ in agriculture?

    (a) Release of Neem oil in the soil increases nitrogen fixation by the soil microorganisms

    (b) Neem coating slows down the rate of dissolution of urea in the soil

    (c) Nitrous oxide, which is a greenhouse gas, is not at all released into the atmosphere by crop fields

    (d) It is a combination of a weedicide and a fertilizer for particular crops

  • Remoulding the Global Plastics Treaty

    Why in the news?

    As discussions for an international legally binding treaty on plastic pollution continue, it is essential to consider how it can support a fair transition for informal waste collectors and recyclers.

    Observations by the OECD Global Plastic Outlook

    • In 2019, global plastic waste production was 353 million tonnes, more than double the amount in 2000. This number is expected to triple by 2060. Only 9% of plastic waste was recycled in 2019.
    • 50% of plastic waste was sent to landfills, 19% incinerated, and 22% disposed of in uncontrolled sites or dumps.

    Challenges due to Plastic Pollution:

    • Soil Pollution: Plastic waste can contaminate soil, reducing its fertility and affecting plant growth.
    • Marine Pollution: Plastic waste in oceans can harm marine life, alter habitats, and disrupt natural processes, making ecosystems less resilient to climate change.
    • Water Pollution: Plastic waste can contaminate groundwater and waterways, affecting human consumption and aquatic life.
    • Health Risks: 
      • Microplastics: Plastic waste can break down into microplastics, which can be ingested by humans and animals, potentially causing health problems.
      • Toxic Chemicals: Plastic products can leach toxic chemicals, such as phthalates and BPA, into food and water, posing health risks

    Significance of Recognizing the Issue

    • Crucial role of recycling workers: Informal recycling workers recycled 85% of the 9% recycled plastic, playing a crucial role in global waste management.
    • Economic and Environmental Contribution: These workers alleviate municipal budgets, promote circular waste management solutions, and help mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. Their efforts significantly reduce plastic in landfills and prevent plastic leakage into the environment.
      • Despite their contributions, informal recycling workers are often overlooked and remain vulnerable. They face risks such as privatization of waste management, waste-to-energy projects, and exclusion from public policy interventions in plastic waste management.

    Global Plastic Treaty Needs Just Transition

    • Need for Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC): Established in 2021, the INC aims to create a legally binding agreement to reduce plastic pollution. The INC has held several meetings, with the final one scheduled in South Korea.
    • Promoting Informal Workers Participation: The International Alliance of Waste Pickers (IAWP) emphasizes the need to support and integrate informal waste pickers into the treaty discussions. Their historical contributions should be acknowledged, their rights protected, and their perspectives included in policy implementation.
    • Building Clarity: There is no universally agreed-upon terminology for a just transition or a formal definition of the informal waste sector. Clarifying these definitions is essential.

    India’s Voice is Important

    • India promotes repair, reuse, refill, and recycling without eliminating the use of plastics. This approach emphasizes country-specific circumstances and capacities.
    • India’s informal waste pickers are indispensable and remain central to the discussion on plastic waste management.
    • Rethinking EPR norms is crucial to integrating the informal worker cohort into the new legal framework.
    • As a key representative from the Global South, India’s perspectives and approaches are vital in shaping the Global Plastics Treaty.

    Conclusion: By incorporating the perspectives of informal waste workers and ensuring their livelihoods are protected, the Global Plastics Treaty can embody social justice and equity principles, contributing to a sustainable future while leaving no one behind.

    Mains PYQ:

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

  • Two bird sanctuaries of Bihar added to Ramsar List

    Why in the News?

    Two wetlands in Bihar, Nagi and Nakti bird sanctuaries, have been added to the global list of wetlands of international importance under the “Ramsar Convention”, bringing India’s total Ramsar sites to 82.

    Do you know?

    • Currently, the highest number of such sites is in the UK (175) followed by Mexico (144).
    • The number of Indian sites on the list has increased from 26 to 82 in the last ten years, of which 40 have been added in the last three years.

    About Nagi-Nakti Wetland

    • These wetlands, situated in Bihar’s Jamui district within the Jhajha forest range, are man-made reservoirs nestled amid dry deciduous forests and hills.
    • Both sanctuaries were developed as man-made reservoirs, primarily for irrigation purposes, through the construction of dams.
    • These wetlands host a diverse range of flora and fauna, including over 150 species of birds, mammals, fish, aquatic plants, reptiles, and amphibians.

    Nakti Bird Sanctuary:

    • It was developed primarily for irrigation through the construction of the Nakti dam.
    • In 1984, the wetland was designated as a bird sanctuary, highlighting its importance as a wintering habitat for several migratory species, with over 20,000 birds congregating during winter months.
    • This includes one of the largest congregations of red-crested pochard in the Indo-Gangetic plain.

    Nagi Bird Sanctuary:

    • It was, on the other hand, created by the damming of the Nagi River, which enabled the gradual formation of water bodies with clear water and aquatic vegetation.
    • Overall, the wetland and its fringes provide habitat for over 75 bird species, 33 fish, and 12 aquatic plants.
    • Notably, the site hosts one of the largest congregations of bar-headed geese in the Indo-Gangetic plain.

    Ecological Significance

    • Migratory Bird Haven: The sanctuaries serve as critical wintering habitats for numerous migratory bird species, attracting over 20,000 birds during the winter months.
    • Species Diversity: Nagi and Nakti sanctuaries support a rich biodiversity, including over 75 bird species, 33 fish species, and 12 aquatic plant species.
    • Bar-headed Geese Congregation: Notably, the wetlands host one of the largest gatherings of bar-headed geese on the Indo-Gangetic plain, highlighting their importance as migratory bird habitats.

    Back2Basics: Ramsar Convention

    Explanation
    Purpose International treaty aimed at conserving and promoting the sustainable use of wetlands.
    Establishment Established on February 2, 1971, in Ramsar, Iran.
    Key Components
    • Identifying and designating wetlands of international importance.
    • Ensuring their effective management.
    • Promoting international cooperation for wetland conservation and sustainable use.
    9 Criteria for Sites Declaration
    1. A site should contain representative, rare, or unique wetland types.
    2. It should support vulnerable, endangered, or endemic species.
    3. It should be a habitat for waterfowl.
    4. It should have significant ecological, botanical, zoological, limnological, or hydrological features.
    5. It should support scientific research and biodiversity conservation.
    6. It should provide essential services such as flood control, water purification, and groundwater recharge.
    7. It should have cultural, recreational, or spiritual value for local communities.
    8. It should support sustainable livelihoods for human communities.
    9. It should be at risk or face human-induced threats that require international cooperation for conservation.
    Participating Countries 171 contracting parties (countries) as of September 2021.
    India and Ramsar Convention  The first Ramsar Site in India, the Chilika Lake in Odisha, was designated in 1981.
    Ramsar Secretariat The convention is administered by the Ramsar Secretariat, based in Gland, Switzerland.
    World Wetlands Day
    • February 2nd of each year.
    • To raise awareness about the importance of wetlands and commemorate the adoption of the Ramsar Convention.
    Montreux Record Register of wetland sites on the List of Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention that require special attention.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] If a wetland of international importance is brought under the ‘Montreux Record’, what does it imply?

    (a) Changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur in the wetland as a result of human interference.

    (b) The country in which the wetland is located should enact a law to prohibit any human activity within five kilometres of the edge of the wetland

    (c) The survival of the wetland depends on the cultural practices and traditions of certain communities living in its vicinity and therefore the cultural diversity therein should not be destroyed

    (d) It is given the status of ‘World Heritage Site’

    [2019] Consider the following statements:

    1. Under Ramsar Convention, it is mandatory on the part of the Government of India to protect and conserve all the wetlands in the territory of India.
    2. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 were framed by the Government of India based on the recommendations of the Ramsar Convention.
    3. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 also encompass the drainage area or catchment regions of the wetlands as determined by the authority.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 3 and 3

  • A call to action for a sustainable future  

    Why in the news?

    World Environment Day (WED) on June 5th is a global event where people come together to celebrate the importance of environmental conservation and sustainability, emphasizing the urgent need to tackle environmental challenges.

    World Environment Day 2024 Theme

    Theme: “Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience”

    • Highlighting Critical Issues: Focuses on the significant threats posed by land degradation and desertification, which impact food security, biodiversity, and climate change. For example, the United Nations estimate that about 30% of land is degraded worldwide
    • The urgency for Action: Emphasizes the need for immediate actions in the face of the triple planetary crisis: Climate Change, Nature and Biodiversity Loss, and Pollution and Waste.
    • Shared Responsibility: Stresses collective action and individual responsibility in restoring ecosystems, urging everyone to contribute to solutions.
    • Empowering Youth: Encourages young people to lead the change towards a sustainable future with the #GenerationRestoration slogan.
    • Alignment with Global Goals: Supports the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030) and the Sustainable Development Goals, promoting a comprehensive approach to environmental protection.

    India’s Ambitious Renewable Targets

    • Renewable Energy Goals: India aims to achieve 450 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, emphasizing solar and wind energy.
    • Solar Energy Initiatives: Major solar projects, including the world’s largest solar park in Karnataka and the International Solar Alliance (ISA), aim to promote solar energy adoption.
    • Wind Energy: India is one of the world’s largest producers of wind energy, with significant wind farms in Tamil Nadu and Gujarat.
    • Policy Support: The government has introduced various policies and incentives to encourage investment in renewable energy, including subsidies, tax benefits, and easier land acquisition processes.
    • Sustainable Development: These initiatives align with India’s commitments under the Paris Agreement to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable development.

    How COVID-19 Shows Us the Way Forward

    • Environmental Awareness: The pandemic has heightened awareness of the interconnectedness between human health and the environment, highlighting the importance of preserving natural habitats to prevent zoonotic diseases.
    • Reduction in Pollution: Lockdowns and reduced industrial activities during the pandemic led to significant decreases in air and water pollution, demonstrating the impact of human activities on the environment.
    • Green Recovery: The concept of building back better suggests incorporating green recovery strategies into post-pandemic economic plans, focusing on sustainable practices and renewable energy investments.
    • Resilient Systems: Emphasizes the need for resilient and adaptive systems that can withstand future shocks, including those caused by climate change and environmental degradation.
    • Global Cooperation: COVID-19 underscored the importance of international cooperation and collective action to tackle global challenges, a principle that is equally applicable to environmental issues.

    Conclusion: By embracing the lessons from the pandemic, setting ambitious renewable energy targets, and focusing on land restoration and resilience, the global community can work towards a sustainable and resilient future. World Environment Day 2024 serves as a pivotal moment to reflect on these goals and renew our commitment to environmental stewardship.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy is the sine qua non to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)”.Comment on the progress made in India in this regard. (150 Words, 10 Marks) (UPSC IAS/2018)

  • RobiNOweed: ICAR’s Herbicide-Tolerant Basmati Variety

    Why in the News? 

    • Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) launched India’s inaugural non-GM herbicide-tolerant Basmati rice varieties for commercial farming, ensuring improved weed control, cost-effectiveness, and addressing water scarcity and methane emissions in cultivation.

    About the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)

    • ICAR is an autonomous organisation under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
    • It is headquartered in New Delhi.
    • ICAR was formerly known as the Imperial Council of Agricultural Research.
    • It was established in 1929 as a registered society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 on the basis of the report of the Royal Commission on Agriculture.

    Functions of ICAR:

    • Its primary mandate is to coordinate agricultural education and research in India and provide leadership in agriculture and allied sectors.
    • It is the apex body for coordinating, guiding and managing research and education in agriculture including horticulture, fisheries and animal sciences in the entire country.

    Structure and Organization:

    • ICAR operates under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India.
    • It consists of a network of research institutes, national bureaus, project directorates, and agricultural universities across the country.
    • The council is governed by a Governing Body and an Executive Committee, which oversee its functioning and activities.

    Recognition and Awards:

    • ICAR confers prestigious awards, such as: the Rafi Ahmed Kidwai Award, the Borlaug Award, and the Hari Om Ashram Trust Award, to recognize excellence in agricultural research and education.

    About RobiNOweed

    • Dubbed as ‘RobiNOweed,’ these varieties are developed by ICAR-IARI and named as:
    1. Pusa Basmati 1979 and
    2. Pusa Basmati 1985
    • They are tailor-made for farmers employing the direct seeded rice (DSR) method, where weed management is crucial.

    Benefits Offered

    • Effective Weed Management: These new varieties offer an effective solution to weed issues and promote the success of the DSR method, potentially saving up to 33% of the total water requirement.
    • Water Conservation: DSR significantly reduces water usage compared to traditional flooding methods, addressing concerns of water depletion, especially in northwest India.
    • Market Impact: With IARI already holding a dominant 95% share in Basmati exports, these new varieties are expected to further boost production and export.

    Critical Assessment of Herbicide-Tolerant Varieties

    • Weed Management Alternatives: Some scientists argue against the necessity of Ht rice, advocating for eco-friendly weed management methods based on climatic factors.
    • Potential Risks: Concerns arise regarding the limited efficacy of the herbicide, its impact on genetic diversity, and the evolution of herbicide-resistant weeds.
    • Lessons from Past: Lessons from the Bt Cotton experience highlight the risks associated with overreliance on specific agricultural technologies.

    What is the Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR) technique?

    • Transplantation Method: In the conventional transplantation method, seeds are sown in nurseries, grown into seedlings, and then transplanted into puddled fields.
    • Direct Seeding: DSR involves directly drilling pre-germinated seeds into the field using tractor-powered machinery.
    • Simplicity and Efficiency: DSR eliminates the need for nursery preparation and transplantation, simplifying the cultivation process.
    • Resource Management: DSR offers benefits such as water savings and reduced labor requirements compared to conventional methods.
    • Higher Requirements: However, DSR requires higher seed quantities and levelled land, posing challenges for adoption.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] With reference to the Genetically Modified mustard (GM mustard) developed in India, consider the following statements:

    1. GM mustard has the genes of a soil bacterium that give the plant the property of pest-resistance to a wide variety of pests.
    2. GM mustard has the genes that allow the plant cross-pollination and hybridization.
    3. GM mustard has been developed jointly by the IARI and Punjab Agricultural University.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 3 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Protecting Mangroves in Tamil Nadu 

    Why in the News?

    The International Union for Nature Conservation (IUCN) has listed mangroves in coastal regions spanning Tamil Nadu, Sri Lanka and Maldives as ‘critically endangered’ in its first global assessment of mangrove ecosystems.

    Red List of Mangrove Ecosystems: Study by IUCN

    • Global assessment reveals a 50% risk of mangrove ecosystem collapse. Without further conservation, by 2050, 7,065 sq km more mangroves will be lost, and 23,672 sq km submerged.

    If we let this happen, the world is at risk of losing:  

    • 1.8B tonnes of carbon stored, costing society $336B (based on the social cost of carbon). Protects 2.1M lives and $36B worth of property from coastal flooding..

    Sea-level rise is the main threat affecting mangrove ecosystems. 

    • 25% of the global mangrove area is predicted to be submerged in the next 50 Years.
    • 1/3 of the world’s mangrove ecosystem provinces will be severely affected by sea-level rise.

    Tamil Nadu’s Efforts for Mangroves Conservation

    • The Tamil Nadu Forest Department has doubled mangrove cover from 23 sq km in 2001 to 45 sq km in 2021, as per the Indian State of Forest Report.
    • Mangrove restoration projects have been undertaken across Nagapattinam, Thiruvarur, Cuddalore, Pudukottai, Ramanathapuram, Thiruvallur, and Villupuram districts, with plans for an additional 15 sq km restoration under the Tamil Nadu Coastal Restoration Mission funded by the World Bank.

    TN-SHORE: World Bank-funded Coastal Restoration Mission

    • Tamil Nadu’s TN-SHORE initiative, launched in January 2024, aims to address environmental challenges along the coastline. With Rs 1,675 crore funding, including 70% from the World Bank, it focuses on blue carbon sequestration.

    Back2Basics: Mangroves

    • Mangroves constitute a group of trees and shrubs inhabiting the coastal intertidal zone.
    • They are found globally in tropical and subtropical regions, typically between latitudes 25° N and 25° S.
    • Mangroves are predominantly located in tropical regions due to their intolerance to the extreme cold conditions prevalent in temperate zones.

    Features of Mangroves:

    • Adaptation to waterlogged and anoxic soil: Mangroves possess unique characteristics allowing them to survive in waterlogged and oxygen-deficient environments.
    • Halophytes: Mangrove species have the ability to filter out up to 90% of the salt from seawater as it enters their roots, with some species also excreting salt through glands in their leaves.
    • Water retention capacity: Thick succulent leaves store fresh water, while a waxy coating on some species’ leaves minimizes evaporation.
    • Pneumatophores: Certain mangroves develop pencil-like roots that emerge from the ground to absorb oxygen from the air, aiding in coping with tidal flooding.
    • Prop roots: Many mangrove trees possess dense aerial roots descending from their trunks and branches, which stabilize and support them against waves and tides.
    • Lenticellated bark: Oxygen enters mangroves through lenticels, small breathing pores in the bark and roots, enabling them to adapt to low oxygen conditions.
    • Viviparity: Seed pods germinate while still on the tree, facilitating immediate root growth upon dropping.

    Mangroves in India:

    • According to the India State of Forest Report 2021, mangrove cover in India comprises 0.15% of the country’s total geographical area.
    • West Bengal has the highest percentage of area under total mangrove cover among states and union territories, followed by Gujarat and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
    • The Sundarbans, characterized by the dominant mangrove species sundari (Heritiera fomes), is the largest continuous mangrove forest globally.
    • Various mangrove areas in India are protected within reserves and sanctuaries such as the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve, Bhitarkanika, Coringa, Nelapattu, Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuaries, Pirotan National Park, among others.

     

    PYQ:

    [2011] The 2004 Tsunami made people realize that mangroves can serve as a reliable safety hedge against coastal calamities. How do mangroves function as a safety hedge?

    (a) The mangrove swamps separate the human settlements from the sea by a wide zone in which people neither live nor venture out

    (b) The mangroves provide both food and medicines which people are in need of after any natural disaster

    (c) The mangrove trees are tall with dense canopies and serve as an excellent shelter during a cyclone or tsunami

    (d) The mangrove trees do not get uprooted by storms and tides because of their extensive roots.

  • Monsoon Croaks Bioblitz: Protecting Kerala’s Frog Species

    Why in the News?

    The Centre for Citizen Science and Biodiversity Informatics, Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI), has organised the event “Monsoon Croaks Bioblitz 2024”.

    About Monsoon Croaks Bioblitz, 2024:

    •  This program aims to document Kerala’s frog species during the monsoon season.
    • Objective: Cultivate scientific curiosity among the public and raise awareness about frog conservation through social media platforms, such as posters and articles.
      • Bioblitz Definition: It’s an intensive survey conducted over time to identify and document as many species as possible within a designated area, a popular participatory survey method globally.

    Project Details:

    • Participation: People of all ages can contribute by uploading frog photographs and sounds via the iNaturalist app.
    • Data Utilization: Scientific observations collected during the bioblits will contribute to the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF), facilitating biodiversity awareness, habitat conservation, and climate change research.

    Need for such an event

    • Monsoon heralds a festive season for frogs, marking their peak activity and breeding period.
    • However, the survival of frogs, crucial indicators of ecosystem health, faces threats from climate change, habitat loss, and water pollution.
    • As a result, 41% of the world’s frog species are on the IUCN Red List of endangered species, including those in Kerala.

    Results of 2023:

    • In 2023, KFRI conducted the Monsoon Croaks project, witnessing enthusiastic participation from citizens across Kerala.
    • Highlights: Around 200 citizen scientists uploaded 1,223 observations, identifying approximately 80 amphibian species, including those listed on the IUCN Red List.
    • Notable Species:  The top most observed species is the Wayanad Bush Frog (Pseudophilautus wynaadensis).
      • Following closely is the Asian Common Toad (Duttaphrynus melanostictus).
      • Other important amphibian species recorded in the bioblitz include:
      • Critically Endangered Resplendent Shrub frog (Raorchestes resplendens).
      • Endangered Malabar Torrent Toad (Blaira ornata).
      • Small Tree Frog (Rhacophorus lateralis).
      • Vulnerable Anaimalai Flying Frog (Rhacophorus pseudomalabaricus).
      • Near Threatened Purple Frog (Nasikabatrachus sahyadrensis).

    Back2Basics: Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)

    Details
    Purpose To provide free and open access to biodiversity data for research, conservation, and sustainable development
    Establishment Established in 2001
    Headquarters Copenhagen, Denmark
    Members Over 40 countries and economies, including government agencies, museums, research institutions, and NGOs
    Mission Facilitate the digitisation and mobilization of biodiversity data, making it accessible and usable for scientific research and policy-making
    Core Functions
    • Promote and facilitate collaboration and data sharing among members
    • Develop standards and tools for data mobilisation, quality, and interoperability
    • Provide technical infrastructure for publishing, indexing, and accessing biodiversity data
    Data Availability GBIF provides access to over 2 billion occurrence records of species worldwide, contributed by thousands of data publishers
    Legal Framework GBIF operates under an intergovernmental treaty, the GBIF Agreement, and is governed by its members through an annual Governing Board
    Funding Funding for GBIF comes from member countries and economies, as well as international organizations and private sector partners
    Contributions to Science and Policy
    • Contributes to global assessments such as the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES)
    • Supports the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and other international initiatives related to biodiversity conservation

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] With reference to an organization known as ‘Birdlife International’ which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. It is a Global Partnership of Conservation Organizations.
    2. The concept of ‘biodiversity hotspots’ originated from this organization.
    3. It identifies the sites known/referred to as ‘Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas’.

    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

  • KAZA Summit 2024: Delegates renew calls to leave CITES

    Why in the news?

    At the KAZA 2024 Summit in Livingstone, Zambia, delegates reiterated the urge for member states to withdraw from CITES because they seek approval to trade their plentiful ivory and wildlife items.

    About the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES):

    • It is an international agreement adopted in 1973 (entered into force in 1975) between governments.
    • Aim: To ensure that international trade in wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival.
    • Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland.
    • Although CITES is legally binding on the Parties – in other words, they have to implement the Convention–it does not take the place of national laws.
    • Representatives of CITES nations meet every two to three years at a Conference of the Parties (COP) to review progress and adjust the lists of protected species, which are grouped into three categories with different levels of protection:
      • Appendix I: Includes the world’s most endangered plants and animals, such as tigers and gorillas. International commercial trade in these species, or even parts of them, is completely banned, except in rare cases such as scientific research.
      • Appendix II: Contains species like corals that are not yet threatened with extinction, but which could become threatened if unlimited trade were allowed. Also included are “look-alike” species that closely resemble those already on the list for conservation reasons. Plants and animals in this category can be traded internationally, but there are strict rules.
      • Appendix III: Species whose trade is only regulated within a specific country can be placed on Appendix III if that country requires cooperation from other nations to help prevent exploitation.

    What is Kavango-Zambezi Trans-Frontier Conservation Area (KAZA-TFCA)?

    • The Kavango-Zambezi Trans-Frontier Conservation Area (KAZA-TFCA) spans 520,000 square kilometers. It covers parts of five southern African nations. These nations are Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
    • The area is centered around the Okavango and Zambezi river basins. The combined elephant population in these nations represents over two-thirds of Africa’s total, estimated at around 450,000.
    • Botswana has the largest elephant population within the region, with 132,000 elephants. Zimbabwe follows with 100,000 elephants.

    Key Objectives of KAZA 2024 Summit :

    • Conservation: Promote the sustainable management and conservation of wildlife across the five member states: Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
    • Economic Benefit: To explore ways to monetize abundant wildlife resources, particularly elephants, to fund conservation efforts and benefit local economies.

    Dominant Issues:

    • At the 19th meeting of the CITES conference in Panama in 2022, KAZA states and five other southern African countries advocated for opening up trade in ivory and elephant products.
    • Southern African countries, including those in the KAZA region, argue that their large elephant populations contribute to habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict.
    • Despite repeated requests, CITES delegates rejected the proposal, leading to frustration among African countries.
    • Ten countries, including KAZA states and others like Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, South Africa, and Tanzania, declared a dispute with CITES. They criticized CITES for straying from its founding principles and adopting ideologies over science-based conservation strategies.

    Way forward:

    • Lobbying for Change: Advocacy for a more equitable and science-based approach to wildlife trade regulations within international frameworks like CITES.
    • Regional Cooperation: Enhance collaboration among member states to develop joint conservation strategies and share best practices for managing human-wildlife conflicts.
    • Diversification of Revenue Streams: Explore alternative sources of funding for conservation efforts, such as ecotourism, carbon credits, and sustainable agriculture.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q How does biodiversity vary in India? How is the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 helpful in the conservation of flora and fauna? (250 Words, 15 Marks) (UPSC IAS/2018)

  • Where animals are dying by a thousand cuts

    Why in the News?

    In the Terai region of Uttar Pradesh, the farmers are using razor wire and electric fencing to defend their farms against stray cattle.

    About the Wildlife Populations in the Biodiverse Terai Areas of Uttar Pradesh

    • The Terai region in the U.P., encompassing districts like Pilibhit, Lakhimpur Kheri, and Bahraich, is known for its rich biodiversity, thriving sugarcane agriculture, and two tiger reserves.
    • This area supports endangered species such as tigers, rhinoceros, swamp deer, and the Bengal florican. The landscape blends forests, grasslands, and agriculture, creating a habitat where people and wildlife coexist.

    What does the Statistics say?

    • During the 2022-23 fiscal year, the livestock industry accounted for 30.1% of India’s Agricultural GDP and 4.35% of the national GDP.
    • India’s farming practices involve a blend of crop farming and livestock rearing. This combined approach offers extra income and job prospects, especially supporting landless workers, small-scale farmers, and women in the workforce.

    Constitutional Provision for the Protection of stray cattle:

    • As per Article 243(W) of the Constitution of India, the local bodies are responsible for cattle pounds and pinjrapole. Therefore, the State may also endow panchayats to establish and run. Cattle Pounds (Kanji Houses)/ Gaushala Shelters (community assets) to keep stray cattle.
    • Many States have established Gaushalas and Shelter houses for stray cattle and provide for feeding of those animals.

    Present Conflicts and Conservation Challenges:

    • Conflicts between humans and wildlife are common, including tiger attacks and crop damage by herbivores.
    • Farmers near protected areas sometimes use lethal methods such as razor wire and high-voltage electric fencing along the farm-forest boundaries. The presence of stray cattle, or “chutta jaanwar,” has intensified conflicts and conservation challenges.
    • Stray cattle disrupt wildlife movement corridors vital for species survival and potentially increase disease transmission risks to wild populations.
    • The Unvaccinated stray cattle can transmit diseases like bovine tuberculosis and lumpy skin disease to wildlife, with cases reported in various Terai districts.
    • The degradation of productive grasslands in protected areas further threatens the habitat of imperilled species.

    Way Forward:

    • Providing safe and comprehensive shelters: Construct adequate cow shelters outside protected areas to house stray cattle, preventing them from impacting wildlife habitats and agricultural fields.
      • Promote and subsidize non-lethal fencing solutions for farmers to protect crops without harming wildlife, such as wildlife-friendly barriers.
      • Invest in habitat restoration projects in the Terai, focusing on expanding and maintaining productive grasslands within protected areas to support wildlife populations.
    • Enhanced monitoring and management: Implement comprehensive vaccination and disease monitoring programs for stray cattle to prevent disease transmission to wildlife.
      • Strengthen enforcement against illegal cattle trade and vigilante activities that disrupt the livestock economy.
      • Provide economic incentives and support for farmers to adopt alternative livelihoods that do not depend heavily on livestock, reducing the need for cattle rearing.
    • Community Engagement and Education: Engage with local communities to educate them on the ecological impact of stray cattle and encourage participatory conservation efforts. Foster collaboration between farmers and wildlife authorities to develop sustainable solutions for coexisting with wildlife.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Examine the status of forest resources in India and its resultant impact on climate change. (UPSC IAS/2020)