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Subject: Environment

  • Govt printed, then shelved elephant census report as numbers fell by 20% in 5 years

    Why in the News?

    Since February this year, hundreds of copies of the Environment Ministry’s elephant census report — “Status of Elephant in India 2022-23” — have remained unreleased, with the government attributing the delay to pending census data from the Northeast.

    Findings of the Elephant Census Report:

    • Significant Drop in Population: The report shows a 20% drop in India’s elephant population since 2017. The Central Indian and Eastern Ghats recorded a 41% dip, with some states like Southern West Bengal (84%), Jharkhand (68%), and Orissa (54%) experiencing major declines.
    • Regional Breakdown: The Western Ghats also saw a decline of 18%, particularly in Kerala, where the population fell by 51%. The Shivalik hills and Gangetic plains recorded only a slight drop (2%), while the Northeast’s data was not updated, but is expected to see a reduction when properly modeled.
    • Developmental Pressures: The report identified “mushrooming developmental projects,” particularly unmitigated mining, linear infrastructure construction, and habitat fragmentation, as key threats to elephants.
      • Poaching, railway collisions, and electrocution were other significant risks.
    • Fragmentation of Habitats: The once-contiguous populations, particularly in the Western Ghats and Central India, are becoming increasingly fragmented due to land-use changes, such as plantations, fencing, and human encroachment.
    • Threats in the Northeast: Elephants in the Northeast are under threat from a mosaic of human habitation, plantations, mines, and oil refineries. Poaching for ivory is a serious issue in this region.

    Note: “Mushrooming developmental projects” refers to the rapid, often uncontrolled expansion of infrastructure and industrial activities, such as mining, road construction, and urbanization, which disrupt ecosystems and natural habitats, impacting biodiversity.

    Why Was the Report Shelved After Being Printed?:

    • Delay in Northeast Data: The government cited delays in completing the census in the Northeast region as the primary reason for not releasing the report.
      •  The methodology and data collection, including advanced techniques like DNA profiling and camera traps, were not fully implemented in the region due to logistical challenges.
    • Interim Status: The Ministry stated that the current report is an interim version and the final report, including Northeast data, is expected by June 2025. There is a reluctance to release incomplete data until a uniform methodology is applied across all regions.

    What are the implications of this decline for elephant on conservation efforts?

    • Need for Urgent Action: The significant decline in elephant populations, especially in the Central and Eastern regions, signals an urgent need for conservation strategies, including habitat restoration and strengthened protection measures.
    • Impact of Development: The report emphasizes the need to address the impacts of developmental projects, which have severely fragmented elephant habitats, increasing human-elephant conflict and other risks such as poaching.
    • Reevaluation of Conservation Policies: The findings suggest the necessity for reevaluating conservation policies to focus on maintaining elephant corridors, mitigating the impact of infrastructure projects, and fostering community support for conservation.
    • Scientific Modelling: The shift to more sophisticated scientific modelling of elephant populations (mark-recapture techniques).
    • Focus on Fragmented Landscapes: Future conservation strategies must address the fragmentation of landscapes, particularly in critical areas like the Eastern Ghats, Western Ghats, and the Northeast, to reconnect elephant habitats and ensure their long-term survival.

    Conclusion: The Elephant Census Report reveals a worrying decline in populations due to habitat fragmentation and developmental pressures. Urgent action is needed to restore habitats, strengthen protection, and reevaluate conservation policies to ensure long-term elephant survival.

  • Species in News: Golden Langur

    Golden Langur

    Why in the News?

    The construction of wildlife passages and artificial canopy bridges along the India-Bhutan border has been prompted by increased deaths of the endangered golden langur due to road accidents.

    About Golden Langur

    Details
    Identification
    • Recognizable by the color of their fur, which gives them their name.
    • Fur color changes with the seasons.
    • Young langurs are almost pure white.
    Geographic Range
    • Found in Assam, India, and neighboring Bhutan year-round.
    • Inhabits an area bordered by the foothills of Bhutan (north), Manas river (east), Sankosh river (west), and Brahmaputra river (south).
    Habitat
    • Occupies moist evergreen and tropical deciduous forests, along with some riverine areas and savannahs in Assam and Bhutan.
    • Prefers living in the upper canopy of sub-tropical forests in the south and temperate forests in the north.
    Conservation Status
    • IUCN: Endangered
    • CITES: Appendix I
    • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I
    Habitat
    • Ripu Reserve Forest and Chakrashila WLS serve as vital habitats.
    • Fragmented habitats face instability and threats.

     

    PYQ:

    [2012] Which one of the following groups of animals belongs to the category of endangered species?

    (a) Great Indian Bustard, Musk Deer, Red Panda and Asiatic Wild Ass

    (b) Kashmir Stag, Cheetal, Blue Bull and Great Indian Bustard

    (c) Snow Leopard, Swamp Deer, Rhesus Monkey and Saras (Crane)

    (d) Lion-tailed Macaque, Blue Bull, Hanuman Langur and Cheetal

  • In news: Arun River 

    Why in the News?

    The Arun River, which flows across Nepal and Tibet, is eroding rock and soil in its basin, leading to the rise of Mount Everest by up to 2 mm a year.

    How is Arun River making the Everest taller?

    The Arun River is contributing to the rise of Mount Everest through a process called isostatic rebound. Here’s how it works:

    1. River Incision:

    • The Arun River, which flows about 75 km from Mount Everest, is eroding large amounts of rock and soil from the surrounding landscape.
    • This process of erosion reduces the weight on the Earth’s crust in the Arun River basin.
    • A study by UCL suggests that the Arun River’s ability to carve out large amounts of rock and other materials may be due to it capturing another river or water system in Tibet.
    • This process is known as River Incision, where the river cuts downward into its bed, deepening its channel.
    • The erosion began to accelerate around 89,000 years ago when the Arun River merged with the Kosi River, removing large amounts of landmass and further reducing the weight on the region’s crust.

    2. Isostatic Rebound:

    • When the weight of the land (due to rocks, soil, or even ice) decreases, the Earth’s crust rises to balance the change.
    • This is similar to how a boat rises in water when heavy cargo is removed.
    • The removal of landmass in the Arun River basin allows the crust underneath Mount Everest to rise.

    About Arun River 

    • The Arun River originates in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, where it is known as Phung Chu or Bum-chu in Tibetan.
    • It flows into Nepal and confluences with the Sun Koshi and Tamur River at Tribenighat, forming the Sapta Koshi River.
    • Tributaries:
      • Left tributaries: Yeru Tsanpo, Trakar-chu.
      • Right tributary: Barun River.
    • At the Nepal border, the Arun River is approximately 3,500 meters (11,500 ft) above sea level.
    • The river drains into the Koshi River, significantly contributing to the Sapta Koshi River system in Nepal.
    • It is the largest trans-Himalayan river in Nepal, playing a crucial role in supporting the region’s hydrology and ecosystems.
    • It provides around 37% of the total water in the Sapta Koshi system, following the Sun Koshi which contributes 44%.
    • Recently, the Arun-III Hydro Power Project (900 MW), which constructed with $6.95b Indian assistance, achieved a milestone with a tunnel breakthrough.

    PYQ:

    [2017] With reference to river Teesta, consider the following statements:

    1. The source of river Teesta is the same as that of Brahmaputra but it flows through Sikkim.

    2. River Rangeet originates in Sikkim and it is a tributary of river Teesta.

    3. River Teesta falls into Bay of Bengal at the border of India and Bangladesh.

    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

  • Species in News: Swallowtail Butterfly

    Why in the News?

    A recent study has found that the overexploitation of medicinal plants, is threatening the survival of swallowtail butterflies in the forest habitats of Assam’s Bodoland Territorial Region.

    About Swallowtail Butterfly

    Details
    Family and Species Family: Papilionidae
    Global species: 573
    Indian species: 77
    Characteristics
    • Large size, brightly colored wings, tail-like extensions on hindwings
    • Strong fliers, diurnal, territorial behavior, feed on nectar
    Distribution Found in tropical and temperate regions of Asia, Africa, Americas
    Habitat in India Found in rainforests, woodlands, cultivated lands, and protected areas like the Western Ghats and Northeast India
    Host Plants Depend on specific plants like Rutaceae, Aristolochiaceae, Lauraceae, and Magnoliaceae families for larval development
    Threats
    • Host plants, especially medicinal plants, are being overexploited in areas like the Bodoland Territorial Region
    • Deforestation, illegal cattle farming, agriculture, tree felling, and pesticide use

    Swallowtail Conservation Action Plan (SCAP)
    Purpose To protect and conserve endangered swallowtail species and prevent their extinction
    Focus Area Focuses on habitat protection, host plant conservation, and population restoration
    Swallowtail-Rich Zones Northeastern India designated as a key zone for swallowtail conservation under SCAP
    Legal Protection 12 swallowtail species in India are under federal protection;
    Some species are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act.
    Community Role SCAP involves local communities in protecting host plants and preventing activities like illegal cattle grazing

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] Recently, for the first time in our country, which of the following States has declared a particular butterfly as ‘State Butterfly’?

    (a) Arunachal Pradesh

    (b) Himachal Pradesh

    (c) Karnataka

    (d) Maharashtra

  • The La Nina and North India’s pollution

    Why in the News?

    The delayed onset of La Niña and the late retreat of the monsoon have diminished hopes that Delhi’s residents might enjoy improved air quality this winter compared to previous years.

    What is Triple-dip La- Nina?

    Triple-dip La Niña refers to the rare occurrence of La Niña persisting for three consecutive years, causing prolonged cooler ocean temperatures in the Pacific and influencing global weather patterns, including stronger monsoons.

    How has the triple-dip La Niña phenomenon influenced air quality in North India?

    • No dispersion of pollutants: The delayed onset of La Niña has led to stagnant air and calm winds, preventing the dispersion of pollutants. In previous winters, La Niña helped improve air quality with stronger winds and atmospheric circulation.
    • Trapped air pollutants: The slower monsoon retreat resulted in extended periods of high humidity, reduced atmospheric mixing, and trapped pollutants near the surface, contributing to deteriorated air quality.

    What meteorological factors contributed to the observed anomalies in air quality?

    • Monsoon Retreat and Humidity: The delayed retreat of the monsoon contributes to prolonged periods of high humidity and calm winds. These conditions reduce atmospheric mixing, trapping pollutants near the surface and leading to elevated levels of PM2.5 and PM10.
    • Stagnant Winds: The absence of La Niña conditions results in stagnant surface winds, which hinder the dispersion of pollutants. This stagnation is particularly problematic given the regional emissions from stubble burning and other sources.
    • Stubble Burning: With prevailing north-north-westerly winds, stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana could significantly worsen Delhi’s air quality if it occurs at even half the intensity seen in previous years.

    What implications does this have for future climate and air quality management strategies?

    • Need for Broader Focus: There is a growing recognition that air quality management must shift from a localized emission-centric approach to one that considers larger meteorological patterns and regional airsheds.
    • Policy Recommendations: Policymakers should prioritize mitigating PM2.5 emissions over PM10, as PM2.5 poses greater health risks.
    • Integration of Climate Factors: Future air quality strategies should integrate climate change considerations, recognizing that local emissions are only part of the equation.

    Way forward:

    • Adopt Regional Airshed Management: Shift from a localized approach to a broader airshed strategy, accounting for meteorological patterns and regional pollution sources to improve air quality management.
    • Prioritize PM2.5 Mitigation and Climate Integration: Focus on reducing PM2.5 emissions, which pose higher health risks, and incorporate climate change factors into long-term air quality policies for comprehensive solutions.

  • Annular Solar Eclipse

    Why in the News?

    An annular solar eclipse will be visible in parts of South America on October 2, 2023.  It, however, will not be visible from India.

    What is a Solar Eclipse?

    • A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon moves between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun’s light either fully or partially, casting a shadow on certain parts of the Earth.
    • There are four types of solar eclipses:
      1. Total Solar Eclipse: When the Moon completely blocks the Sun, turning the sky dark. People in the path of a total solar eclipse can witness the Sun’s corona (its outer atmosphere), which is normally hidden by the bright sunlight.
      2. Annular Solar Eclipse: Occurs when the Moon is at or near its farthest point from Earth. The Moon does not fully cover the Sun, leaving a visible ring of fire around the Moon. This is what people in parts of South America will witness on October 2, 2023.
      3. Partial Solar Eclipse: Happens when the Moon blocks only a part of the Sun, giving it a crescent shape. During both partial and annular eclipses, areas outside the Moon’s umbra (the darkest part of its shadow) experience a partial eclipse. It is the most common type of solar eclipse.
      4. Hybrid Solar Eclipse: The rarest type, where the eclipse shifts between total and annular as the Moon’s shadow moves across the Earth. Some places see a total solar eclipse, while others see an annular one.

    Frequency of Solar Eclipses

    • A solar eclipse can only occur during the new moon, when the Moon and Sun are aligned on the same side of the Earth.
    • A new moon happens approximately every 29.5 days because that is the time it takes for the Moon to orbit the Earth.
    • However, solar eclipses don’t happen every month. They occur two to five times annually, but not every new moon results in an eclipse.
    • Why don’t they occur every month:
      • The Moon’s orbit around the Earth is tilted by about 5 degrees compared to the Earth’s orbit around the Sun.
      • This means the Moon’s shadow usually misses the Earth.
      • A solar eclipse only occur when the Moon crosses specific points in its orbit, called nodes, where the Moon’s orbit intersects the plane of Earth’s orbit around the Sun.
      • When a new moon occurs at one of these nodes, a solar eclipse is possible.

    PYQ:

    [2019] On 21st June, the Sun

    (a) does not set below the horizon at the Arctic Circle

    (b) does not set below the horizon at Antarctic Circle

    (c) shines vertically overhead at noon on the Equator

    (d) shines vertically overhead at the Tropic of Capricorn

  • Dead Coral Skeletons hinder Reef Regeneration

    Why in the News?

    A study conducted at Moorea, French Polynesia, has revealed that the network of dead coral skeletons left behind by bleaching events prevents reefs from regenerating.

    About Corals

    • Corals are marine invertebrates made up of genetically identical organisms called polyps.
    • Polyps have a mutualistic relationship with microscopic algae called zooxanthellae that live within their tissues.
    • Zooxanthellae perform photosynthesis, providing the corals with carbohydrates, while the corals offer compounds needed for photosynthesis.
    • Corals have calcium carbonate skeletons, which help in building the reef structure.
    • Thousands of polyps combine to form coral colonies, which multiply and grow over time.
    • Coral reefs are underwater ecosystems formed by the accumulation of calcium carbonate skeletons from corals.
    • Known as the “rainforests of the seas”, they provide habitat and protection for a wide variety of marine life.
    • Coral reefs are built by both hard and soft corals and grow over time as more corals attach to the reef structure.
    • They are the largest living structures on the planet, vital for marine biodiversity.

    Challenges due to Dead Corals

    • Shelter for Seaweed: Dead coral skeletons create a complex structure that offers protection to macroalgae (seaweed) from herbivores. This allows seaweed to colonize the reef quickly, outcompeting young coral.
    • Impeded Herbivory: The complex landscape of dead corals prevents herbivores, which normally graze on algae, from accessing the macroalgae effectively. This leads to unchecked algae growth.
    • Increased Competition: Macroalgae grow faster and reproduce more frequently than coral, leading to increased competition for space, light, and nutrients, which further inhibits young coral from settling and growing.
    • Annual Coral Reproduction: Coral typically spawns only once a year, while algae reproduce continuously. This gives algae a competitive advantage in newly available spaces left by dead coral skeletons.
    • Altered Ecosystem Balance: The presence of dead coral shifts the balance between herbivores, algae, and coral, making it difficult for the reef to regenerate naturally.

    Conditions for Reef Regeneration

    • Flat Substrate: After events like cyclones, which remove coral but leave behind a flat surface, reefs tend to recover more easily, as young coral can settle and regrow without much competition from macroalgae.
    • Herbivore Activity: Active herbivory is crucial for reef recovery, as herbivores control the growth of macroalgae, allowing space for coral recruits to settle and thrive.
    • Clear Space for Coral Recruits: To regenerate effectively, coral needs open space free from excessive algae. Removing dead coral skeletons might help create these conditions.
    • Frequent Disturbances: Coral reefs are better adapted to recover from frequent but non-lethal disturbances like storms, which scrape off coral and allow for fresh regrowth, compared to bleaching events, which leave the dead coral structure intact.
    • Water Quality and Temperature: Coral recovery depends on optimal water conditions, including the absence of pollutants and suitable temperatures.

    PYQ:

    [2018] Consider the following statements

    1. Most of the world’s coral reefs are in tropical waters.
    2. More than one-third of the world’s coral reefs are located in the territories of Australia, Indonesia and Philippines.
    3. Coral reefs host far more number of animal phyla than those hosted by tropical rainforests.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 1and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [30th September 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Common Practice Standards must have India outlook 

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q). Should the pursuit of carbon credits and clean development mechanisms set up under UNFCCC be maintained even though there has been a massive slide in the value of a carbon credit? Discuss with respect to India’s energy needs for economic growth. (UPSC CSE 2014)
    Q). In the view of the declining average size of land holdings in India which has made agriculture non – viable for a majority of farmers should contract farming and land leasing be promoted in agriculture? critically evaluate the pros and cons. (UPSC CSE 2015)
    Q). Sikkim is the first ‘Organic State’ in India. What are the ecological and economical benefits of Organic State? (UPSC CSE 2018)

    Prelims:

    In the context of India, which of the following is/are considered to be practice(s) of eco-friendly agriculture? (UPSC CSE 2020)
    1. Crop diversification
    2. Legume intensification
    3. Tensiometer use
    4. Vertical farmingSelect the correct answer using the code given below:
    (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
    (b) 3 only
    (c) 4 only
    (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

    Mentor’s Comment:  Agroforestry plays a crucial role in enhancing the resilience of Indian agriculture through various mechanisms. By integrating trees with crops and livestock, agroforestry provides farmers with multiple income streams, reducing dependence on single crops and mitigating the impact of market fluctuations. The integration of trees provides shade and wind protection, making agricultural systems more resilient to extreme weather events such as droughts and floods. This adaptability is vital for farmers facing unpredictable climate patterns. In today’s editorial, we will focus on Indian-centric issues.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Recent studies indicate that with the right policies and financial support, India could sequester an additional 2.5 billion tons of CO2 equivalent by 2030 in the agroforestry sector.

    • Currently, agro-forestry represents 8.65% of India’s land and contributes 19.3% of its carbon stocks, playing a vital role in both environmental sustainability and economic growth.
    • India is poised to increase agroforestry area from 28.4 million hectares to 53 million hectares by 2050.
    CASE STUDY of UP:

    • In Uttar Pradesh, a new agroforestry project aims to connect local farming with the global carbon credit market, potentially generating 4.5 million carbon credits valued at around Rs 230 crore.
    • This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance rural incomes while increasing the state’s green cover from 9.23% to 15% by 2027.
    • The success of these projects hinges on adapting carbon finance standards to better suit India’s unique agricultural landscape, which could unlock further opportunities for smallholder farmers.

    How does the ‘Polluter Pays Principle’ apply to carbon credits in agro-forestry?

    The Polluter Pays Principle (PPP) is a fundamental concept in environmental economics that holds polluters responsible for the costs associated with their environmental impact.

    • Responsibility for Emissions: Industries that emit greenhouse gases are required to compensate for their emissions by purchasing carbon credits.
      • Each credit represents one ton of CO2 or its equivalent that has been sequestered or reduced, which creates a financial incentive for these industries to invest in carbon offset projects like agroforestry.
    • Market Dynamics: The carbon credit market operates on the principle that companies must buy credits to offset their emissions, thus internalizing the external costs of pollution.

    What are the present issues for the Indian Market?

    • In carbon finance, “common practice” assesses the projects that have additional regional activities (larger areas), meaning they are disqualified from earning carbon credits if they don’t provide additional environmental benefits.
      • For example, standards like Verra’s VCS and Gold’s current definitions reflect large-scale agricultural practices in regions like Latin America and the U.S., overlooking India’s context of small, fragmented landholdings.
    • However, in India, approximately 86.1% of farmers have less than two hectares, often practicing agroforestry in a non-systematic manner, which may not meet the additionality criteria. Many Indian farmers are excluded from ARR carbon finance projects due to this.

    Why is there a need for an India-centric approach?

    Revising standards to fit India’s fragmented small-holder model could allow more farmers to participate in carbon finance projects.

    • Enhanced Income Streams: Integrating agroforestry with Afforestation, Reforestation, and Revegetation (ARR) initiatives provides farmers with additional income through carbon credits, diversifying their revenue sources.
      • This integration helps tackle issues such as low productivity, small land holdings, dependence on monsoons, and environmental degradation by promoting sustainable land management practices.
    • Soil and Ecosystem Health: Agro-forestry practices improve soil quality, enhance water retention, and mitigate erosion, contributing to overall ecosystem health and agricultural productivity.
    • Biodiversity Conservation: The integration encourages greater biodiversity by incorporating various tree species alongside crops, promoting ecological balance within agricultural landscapes.
    • Alignment with National Goals: The integration supports India’s climate goals and commitments under international agreements by increasing carbon sequestration potential and enhancing green cover.
    • Long-Term Sustainability: By establishing a systematic approach to agroforestry through ARR initiatives, farmers can achieve sustainable agricultural practices that ensure long-term productivity and environmental health.

    Way Forward:

    • The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) has launched 19 ARR projects across seven states in India, benefiting over 56,600 farmers.
    • To scale these initiatives, international carbon finance platforms must revise their standards to align with the realities of Indian agriculture.
    • A systematic approach to agro-forestry supported by carbon finance can help farmers diversify their income, making them more resilient to climate variability.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/common-practice-standards-must-have-india-outlook/article68698577.ece

  • SC raps CAQM over failure to curb Delhi’s Pollution

    Why in the News?

    The Supreme Court has criticized the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for its lack of concrete action to curb stubble burning in states neighboring Delhi.

    Key issues as per SC: 

    • Non-Compliance and Ineffectiveness: The Supreme Court criticized the CAQM for failing to enforce the CAQM Act, highlighting a lack of concrete measures against stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana.
    • Lack of Accountability: The Court questioned the CAQM’s accountability, emphasizing the need for concrete actions and consequences for officials who fail to enforce anti-pollution laws.
    • Staffing and Representation Issues: The Court expressed concerns over staffing shortages in pollution control boards and inadequate representation in CAQM sub-committees, hindering effective operation.
    • Scepticism on Pollution Reduction Claims: Despite claims of improved air quality and reduced stubble burning, the Court remained doubtful, citing ongoing instances of stubble burning and demanding detailed explanations from the CAQM.

    About the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM):

    Details
    Formation
    • Established in 2021;
    • Statutory body under the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021
    Objective To manage air quality in the NCR and adjoining areas comprehensively
    Composition Headed by a full-time chairperson, with members from various states, ministries, and sectors like agriculture, industry, transport, and construction
    Powers Authority to issue directions, inspect industries, entertain complaints, restrict industries, and shut down non-compliant units
    Jurisdiction National Capital Region (NCR) and adjoining areas in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan
    Functions Coordinates and monitors air quality, sets pollution control parameters, identifies violators, monitors industries, and can overrule state directives

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] How is the National Green Tribunal (NGT) different from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)?

    1. The NGT has been established by an Act whereas the CPCB has been created by an executive order of the Government.

    2. The NGT provides environmental justice and helps reduce the burden of litigation in the higher courts whereas the CPCB promotes cleanliness of streams and wells and aims to improve the quality of air in the country.

    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

    [2022]The most significant achievement of modern law in India is the constitutionalization of environmental problems by the Supreme Court.” Discuss this statement with the help of relevant case laws.

    [2015] Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata are the three Mega cities of the country but the air pollution is much more serious problem in Delhi as compared to the other two. Why is this so?

  • In news: Dhanauri Wetland

    Why in the News?

    The NGT has ordered the UP government to remove water hyacinth from “Dhanauri wetlands” and questioned its failure to designate the wetland as a Ramsar site.

    Dhanauri Wetland

    About Dhanauri Wetland

    Details
    Location
    • Dhanauri village near Dankaur, Uttar Pradesh;
    • Floodplains of Yamuna.
    Key Species Home to over 120 Sarus Cranes (state bird of Uttar Pradesh) and 217 bird species
    Ecological Significance Important birding and nesting site; recognized as an Important Bird Area by Bird Life International
    Bird Population Hosts over 50,000 waterfowls during migratory seasons (November to March)
    Ramsar Criteria Fulfills 2 Ramsar criteria:
    1. Hosts over 1% of biogeographic Sarus Crane population
    2. Congregation site for 20,000+ waterfowls
    Conservation Status Documented by BNHS (Bombay Natural History Society); crucial for supporting endangered species

     

    Ramsar Wetlands

    • The Ramsar Convention, also known as the ‘Convention on Wetlands,’ is an intergovernmental environmental treaty founded by UNESCO in 1971.
    • It derives its name from the city of Ramsar in Iran, where it was initially signed.
    • Ramsar sites are wetlands of global significance recognized under this treaty.
    • The Montreux Record is a register of wetland sites on the brink of ecological changes and in need of close monitoring under the Ramsar Convention.

    Ramsar Site Designation Criteria:

    Ramsar site designation hinges on several factors:

    1. Representing rare or unique natural wetland types.
    2. Supporting endangered species or threatened ecological communities.
    3. Maintaining biodiversity in specific biogeographic regions.
    4. Offering refuge during adverse conditions.
    5. Regularly accommodating 20,000 or more waterbirds.
    6. Sustaining 1% of a population of a single water-bird species.
    7. Serving as a critical source of food, spawning grounds, nurseries, and migration paths for fish.
    8. Regularly supporting 1% of a population of non-avian wetland-dependent animal species.