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Subject: Environment

  • Squalus hima: A new deep-water Dogfish Shark discovered in Kerala

    Why in the News?

    Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have discovered a new species of deep-water dogfish shark, Squalus hima, from the Sakthikulangara fishing harbour in Kerala along the Arabian Sea.

    About Squalus hima

    • Squalus is a genus of dogfish sharks in the family Squalidae, commonly known as spurdogs, characterized by smooth dorsal fin spines.
    • The new species, Squalus hima sp. nov., has been misidentified with S. mitsukurii and S. lalannei in the past.
    • Squalus hima differs from other species by the number of precaudal vertebrae, total vertebrae, teeth count, trunk and head heights, fin structure, and fin colour.

    Comparison with Other Species

    • On the Indian coast, two species of Squalus are found from the southwest coast of India.
    • The new species, Squalus hima n.sp., is very similar to Squalus lalannei but differs in many characteristics.
    • Species in the Squalus megalops group are characterized by an angular short snout, a small mouth almost as wide as the snout, the first dorsal fin origin behind the pectoral fins, and a body without any spots.

    Economic and Conservation Implications

    • Sharks in the genus Squalus and Centrophorus are exploited for their liver oil, which contains high levels of squalene, used in high-end cosmetic and anti-cancer products.
    • Fishermen from southern India and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands harvest these sharks for their liver oil, making conservation of these species critical.

    Importance of the Discovery

    • The discovery of Squalus hima is significant for the conservation of shark species exploited for commercial purposes.
    • Dogfish sharks are commercially important for their fins, liver oil, and meat and are sometimes caught as by-catch in fisheries targeting other species.

    PYQ:

    [2019] Consider the following pairs:

    Wildlife Naturally found in
    1. Blue-finned Mahseer Cauvery River
    2. Irrawaddy Dolphin Chambal River
    3. Rusty-spotted Cat Eastern Ghats

    Which of the pairs given correctly matched?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Species in News

    Description

    Cyrtobagus salvinia
    • Context: Used to eradicate the invasive weed Salvinia molesta from the Sarani reservoir in Betul district, Madhya Pradesh.
    • Biological Details: Exotic beetle from Brazil, targets and eradicates Salvinia molesta, dies naturally post-eradication.
    • Bioremediation: Implemented by ICAR-DWR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Directorate of Weed Research), started in April 2022, completed within 15 to 18 months.
    • Economic and Social Impact: Restored livelihoods for fishermen by reviving fish populations; initial challenges included high cost and impracticality of manual removal.
    • Conservation Status: No risk, as the beetle dies naturally after eradicating the weed.

    Squalus hima

     
    • Context: Newly discovered species of deep-water dogfish shark found in the Arabian Sea off the coast of Kerala.
    • Biological Details: Genus Squalus, family Squalidae, commonly known as spurdogs; differs in vertebrae count, teeth, and fin structure from other species.
    • Discovery: Discovered by Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) at Sakthikulangara fishing harbour, Kerala; significant for new species identification and conservation.
    • Economic and Social Impact: Important for commercial products like liver oil used in cosmetics and anti-cancer products; challenges include high exploitation for liver oil, fins, and meat.
    • Conservation Status: Critical due to high commercial exploitation for liver oil, fins, and meat; important for conservation efforts.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] Why is a plant called Prosopis juliflora often mentioned in the news?

    (a) Its extract is widely used in cosmetics.

    (b) It tends to reduce the biodiversity in the area in which it grows.

    (c) Its extract is used in the synthesis of pesticides.

    (d) None of the above.

     

    [2019] Consider the following pairs:

    Wildlife Naturally found in
    1. Blue-finned Mahseer Cauvery River
    2. Irrawaddy Dolphin Chambal River
    3. Rusty-spotted Cat Eastern Ghats

    Which of the pairs given correctly matched?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Zoological Survey of India’s Report on Animal Discoveries 2023

    Why in the News?

    A report titled “Animal Discoveries 2023” by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) highlights significant new species findings in Maharashtra and across India.

    New Species in Maharashtra:

    • Maharashtra recorded 14 new animal species in 2023, with two species reported for the first time in India.
    • Notably, among the 25 Arachnid species reported for the first time in India, two belong to Maharashtra—Steatoda Erigoniformis and Myrmarachne Spissa.
    1. Steatoda Erigoniformis: It is a species of spider known for its resemblance to the more dangerous black widow spiders. They are commonly referred to as “false widow spiders.”
    2. Myrmarachne Spissa: It is part of a group of spiders that mimic ants in appearance and behaviour, a trait known as myrmecomorphy. Previously reported in Sri Lanka, Myrmarachne Spissa’s discovery in Pune marks its first report from India, highlighting the region’s biodiversity significance.

    Key Findings from the ZSI Report:

    • National Discoveries:
      • In 2023, Indian scientists reported a total of 641 new discoveries, including 442 new species and 199 new records for India.
      • This includes the discovery of 19 new genera. As of January 1, 2024, India’s faunal diversity stands at 104,561 species, with the additions in 2023 constituting 6.65% of the global faunal diversity.
    • Categories of Discoveries:
      • Invertebrates accounted for the majority of new discoveries with 564 species, while vertebrates contributed 77 species.
      • Among invertebrates, insects led with 369 new species, while vertebrates were dominated by fish with 47 species, followed by reptiles, amphibians, and mammals.
    • Regional Distribution:
      • Kerala reported the highest number of new discoveries (101), followed by West Bengal (72), Tamil Nadu (64), Arunachal Pradesh (45), Karnataka (45), and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands (36).
      • Southern India consistently reports the highest number of species.

     

    Back2Basics: Zoological Survey of India

    • The ZSI was set up by British zoologist Thomas Nelson Annandale, in 1916.
    • It is the premier taxonomic research organisation in India based in Kolkata.
    • It was established to promote surveys, exploration and research leading to the advancement of our knowledge of various aspects of the exceptionally rich animal life of India.
    • The ZSI had its genesis as the Zoological Section of the Indian Museum at Calcutta in 1875.
    • Since its inception, the ZSI has been documenting the diversity and distribution of the fauna of India towards carrying out its mandate of conducting exploration-cum-taxonomic-research programmes.
    • The ZSI has published an extremely large amount of information on all animal taxa, from Protozoa to Mammalia.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] With reference to India’s Biodiversity, Ceylon frogmouth, Coppersmith barbet, Gray-chinned minivet and White-throated redstart are:

    (a) Birds

    (b) Primates

    (c) Reptiles

    (d) Amphibians

  • Upper Siang Hydropower Project in Arunachal Pradesh

    Why in the News?

    Activists are protesting against the Upper Siang Hydropower Project in Arunachal.

    About Upper Siang Multipurpose Storage Project

    • The Upper Siang project is a proposed 11,000 MW hydropower project on the Siang River in Arunachal Pradesh.
      • The Siang, originating near Mount Kailash in Tibet (Tsangpo), flows over 1,000 km eastward, enters Arunachal Pradesh as the Siang, and later becomes the Brahmaputra in Assam.
    • Initially proposed as two separate projects, it was consolidated into one larger project in 2017, to be built by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC), featuring a 300-metre high dam.

    Strategic Importance:

    • The Upper Siang project is seen as a strategic move to counter China’s hydel projects on the Tsangpo, particularly a 60,000 MW ‘super dam’ in Tibet’s Medog county.
    • This super dam’s capacity is nearly 3x that of the Three Gorges Dam in China and is intended to divert water to northern China.

    Environmental and Social Concerns

    • Anti-dam organizations express concerns about the project’s environmental and social impact in their memorandum.
    • The memorandum highlights the threat to delicate ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and biodiversity in Arunachal Pradesh, which already hosts numerous dams.
    • The activists are particularly worried about the displacement of communities, as the project could submerge over 300 villages of the Adi tribe, including the district headquarters of Yingkiong.
    • Activists are also wary of the project’s portrayal as a national interest endeavor and are troubled by a provision in the Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act, which exempts strategic projects within 100 km from India’s borders from clearance requirements.

    Back2Basics: Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act, 2023

    Details
    Land Under the Purview of the Act Defines two categories of land under its purview:

    1. Land declared as forest under the Indian Forest Act or any other law, or notified as a forest after 25th October 1980.
    2. Land converted from forest to non-forest use before 12th December 1996.
    Exemptions from the Act Allows exemptions for:

    • Up to 0.10 hectares of forest land for connectivity purposes along roads and railways. 
    • Up to 10 hectares for security-related infrastructure.
    • Up to 5 hectares in Left Wing Extremism Affected Districts for public utility projects.
    • Additionally, strategic projects within 100 km of international borders, LAC, and LoC are also exempted.
    Permitted Activities in Forest Land
    • Includes conservation, management, and development efforts.
    • Activities like zoos, ecotourism facilities, silvi-cultural operations, and specified surveys are exempted from non-forest purposes.
    Assignment/Leasing of Forest Land
    • Extends the prerequisite for obtaining prior approval from the central government for the assignment of forest land to any entity, broadening the scope beyond private entities.
    • It also grants the central government the authority to stipulate the terms and conditions governing such assignments.

     

    PYQ:

    [2011] The Brahmaputra, Irrawady and Mekong rivers originate in Tibet and flow it through narrow and parallel mountain ranges in their upper reaches. Of these rivers, Brahmaputra makes a “U” turn in its course to flow into India. This “U” turn is due to:

    (a) Uplift of folded Himalayan series

    (b) Syntaxial bending of geologically young Himalayas

    (c) Geo-tectonic disturbance in the tertiary folded mountain chains

    (d) Both (A) and (B) above

  • Central India’s land-use patterns, roads fragmenting gaur & sambar populations, threatening genetic diversity   

    Why in the news? 

    A recent study by the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) found that land-use alterations and road construction in central India affect the genetic connectivity of two prominent herbivores: the gaur and the sambar.

    What is Genetic diversity?

    • Genetic diversity refers to the variety and variability of genetic material within a species or population, essential for adaptation, resilience to environmental changes, and long-term survival of organisms.

    About National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS)   

    • NCBS is a premier research institute located in Bangalore, India that is part of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) under the Department of Atomic Energy of the Government of India.
    • The mandate of NCBS is to conduct fundamental research in the frontier areas of biology, ranging from the study of single molecules to ecology and evolution.

    Observations made by the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS)   

    • Impact of Habitat Modification: The NCBS study underscores the significant impact of habitat loss and fragmentation on wildlife populations, particularly highlighting how expanding linear infrastructure like highways and railway lines disrupts animal movement and genetic connectivity.
    • Genetic Connectivity of Herbivores: It is the first study in India to investigate the genetic connectivity of large herbivores, specifically the gaur and sambar, at a landscape scale. The research reveals how these species are affected differently by landscape features and human activities, influencing their genetic diversity and ability to adapt to environmental changes.
    • Conservation Urgency: The study emphasizes the urgent need for conservation measures in fragmented habitats, such as Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary in Maharashtra, where small and genetically isolated populations of herbivores require targeted interventions to ensure their survival and genetic health.
    • Methodological Advances: Using advanced genetic techniques like next-generation sequencing (NGS) and landscape genetics, the NCBS researchers demonstrated how these tools can provide crucial insights into population dynamics, genetic diversity, and the impacts of human-induced changes on wildlife populations.

    Present Issues from Tiger reserves and Wildlife sanctuaries in MP and MH

    • Habitat Fragmentation and Connectivity: Both states face significant challenges related to habitat fragmentation due to expanding linear infrastructure like highways and railway lines. These developments disrupt wildlife corridors essential for the movement of animals, leading to isolated populations and reduced genetic connectivity, as observed in the NCBS study.
    • Human-Wildlife Conflict: Increasing instances of human-wildlife conflict pose a threat to both animals and human communities living near tiger reserves and wildlife sanctuaries. Encroachment of habitat for agriculture and settlements often results in conflicts over resources and occasionally leads to casualties among both wildlife and humans.
    • Poaching and Illegal Wildlife Trade: Despite conservation efforts, tiger reserves and sanctuaries in MP and MH continue to face challenges related to poaching and illegal wildlife trade. Tigers and other endangered species are targeted for their skins, bones, and other body parts, driven by demand in illegal markets.
    • Resource Extraction and Mining: Mining activities and resource extraction near protected areas pose significant environmental threats. These activities not only lead to habitat destruction but also contribute to pollution and disturbance, affecting the overall ecosystem health and biodiversity of these regions.
    • Climate Change Impacts: The effects of climate change, such as erratic weather patterns and changing rainfall regimes, also impact tiger reserves and wildlife sanctuaries in MP and MH. These changes can alter habitat suitability for wildlife species, affecting their distribution, migration patterns, and ability to adapt to new environmental conditions.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhanced Habitat Connectivity and Protection: Implement measures to mitigate habitat fragmentation caused by linear infrastructure. This includes creating wildlife corridors over or under highways and railways to facilitate safe animal movement
    • Integrated Conservation and Community Engagement: Foster collaboration between local communities, conservation organizations, and government agencies to address human-wildlife conflict and illegal activities like poaching.

    Mains PYQ: 

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

  • Threats to Island Reptiles and Cacti Highlighted by IUCN

    Why in the News?

    The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has issued an update on the threats faced by various reptile and cactus species due to invasive species and illegal trade.

    Species highlighted by the IUCN

    Species Status Change Reason for Decline Location Threats
    Ibiza Wall Lizard

    		 Near Threatened → Endangered 50% population decline since 2010 due to invasive snake Ibiza, Spain Invasive horseshoe whip snake (Haemorrhoids Hippocrepis)
    Gran Canaria Giant Lizard

    		 Least Concern → Endangered >50% decline since 2014 due to the introduction of California Kingsnake Gran Canaria, Spain California Kingsnake (Lampropeltis California)
    Gran Canaria Skink

    		 Least Concern → Endangered >50% decline since 2014 due to the introduction of California Kingsnake Gran Canaria, Spain California Kingsnake (Lampropeltis California)
    Copiapoa Cacti

    		 Critically Endangered 82% critically endangered, up from 55% in 2013 Atacama Desert, Chile Illegal trade for ornamental purposes, climate change impacts

     

    Back2Basics: IUCN Overview Table

    Details
    Founded 1948
    Headquarters Gland, Switzerland
    Mission To conserve nature and ensure the sustainable and equitable use of natural resources.
    Focus Areas
    • Initially conservation ecology
    • Now includes sustainable development issues
    Influence
    • Influences governments, businesses, and stakeholders
    • Known for the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
    IUCN Red List
    • Estimates the probability of species’ extinction for animals, fungi, and plants globally
    • Public and universally accessible
    • Provides specific data on species’ attributes, dangers, and protection efforts
    • Assists in conservation decisions and policy-making
    Categories of Extinction Risk
    • Nine categories from NE (Not Evaluated) to EX (Extinct)
    • Threatened categories: Critically Endangered (CR), Endangered (EN), and Vulnerable (VU)
    Global Targets Indicator Serves as a headline indicator for SDGs and Aichi Targets
    IUCN Green Status of Species
    • Assesses the effectiveness of recovery and conservation processes for species’ populations
    • Categories: EW (Extinct in the Wild), CR (Critically Endangered), LR/cd (Least Concern/Conservation Dependent), MOD (Moderately Depleted), SL (Stable), FR (Fluctuating Range), ND (Not Determined), ID (Insufficient Data)

     

    PYQ:

    [2023] Invasive Species Specialist Group’ (that develops Global Invasive Species Database) belongs to which one of the following organizations?

    (a) The International Union for Conservation of Nature
    (b) The United Nations Environment Programme
    (c) The United Nations World Commission for Environment and Development
    (d) The World Wide Fund for Nature

    [2015] With reference to the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. IUCN is an organ of the United Nations and CITES is an international agreement between governments
    2. IUCN runs thousands of field projects around the world to better manage natural environments.
    3. CITES is legally binding on the States that have joined it, but this Convention does not take the place of national laws.

    Select the correct using the code given below.
    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 and 3 only
    (c) 1 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Indian Star Tortoises rescued from Malaysia

    Why in the News?

    Malaysia has seized about 200 smuggled Indian Star Tortoises and Turtles in a major crackdown. The Indian star tortoise is the single most confiscated species of freshwater tortoise in the world, according to wildlife trade watchdog TRAFFIC.

    About Indian Star Tortoises (Geochelone elegans)

    Details
    Habitat
    • Found in Central and Southern India, West Pakistan, and Sri Lanka
    • Typically resides in dry, open habitats such as scrub forests, grasslands, and rocky outcroppings
    Threats
    • Habitat fragmentation due to urbanization and agricultural practices
    • Loss of genetic diversity due to hybridization
    • 90% of trade occurs in the international pet market, according to the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau
    Protection Status
    • IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
    • Wild Life Protection Act 1972: Schedule I
    • CITES: Appendix I

     

    Back2Basics: TRAFFIC (Trade Records Analysis of Flora and Fauna in Commerce)

    Details
    Founded 1976
    Headquarters Cambridge, United Kingdom
    Mission Ensure that trade in wild plants and animals does not threaten the conservation of nature.
    Founding Partners World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
    Focus Areas
    • Biodiversity Conservation
    • Sustainable Development
    Governance
    • TRAFFIC Committee (WWF and IUCN members)
    • Cooperation with the CITES Secretariat
    Staff Expertise Biologists, conservationists, academics, researchers, communicators, investigators
    Global Network Research-driven, action-oriented global network
    Key Functions
    • Evolution of wildlife trade treaties
    • Expertise on urgent species trade issues (tiger parts, elephant ivory, rhino horn)
    • Addressing large-scale commercial trade in timber and fisheries products
    TRAFFIC in India
    • Programme Division of WWF-India since 1991
    • Based in New Delhi
    • Collaborates with national and state governments to curb illegal wildlife trade

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Consider the following:

    1. Star tortoise
    2. Monitor lizard
    3. Pygmy hog
    4. Spider monkey

    Which of the above are naturally found in India?

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

  • Delhi Preservation of Trees Act (DPTA), 1994

    Why in the News?

    The Supreme Court and the Delhi government are at loggerheads due to alleged felling of trees in the Asola-Bhati Wildlife Sanctuary under the Delhi Preservation of Trees Act (DPTA), 1994.

    Forest Cover in Delhi: ISFR Report Findings

    • Largest Cover: According to the ‘India State of Forest Report 2021’ (ISFR) published by the Forest Survey of India (FSI), Delhi has the largest forest cover among seven major megacities, with 195 sq. km, followed by Mumbai (110.77 sq. km) and Bengaluru (89.02 sq. km).
      • Delhi’s forest cover constitutes 13.15% of its geographical area, while its tree cover spans 147 sq. km (9.91%).
    • Growth over Time: Despite extensive urban development, the city’s overall green cover (forest and tree cover) has increased from 151 sq. km (10.2%) in 2001 to 342 sq. km (23.6%) in 2021.

    What is the case against the DDA?

    • The Supreme Court is hearing a contempt petition against DDA’s Vice Chairman for the felling of about 1,100 trees, in violation of the SC’s orders, for road expansion in the ridge area, which falls under the eco-sensitive zone around Asola-Bhati Wildlife Sanctuary.
    • On March 4, the DDA submitted an application to the SC seeking permission to cut trees for the construction of the Gaushala Road. The court directed the DDA to re-examine the proposal with the help of field experts.
    • An affidavit from the DDA’s Vice Chairman revealed that tree felling had already begun in February and continued for ten days. By February 26, all intended trees were cut down even before the application reached the SC. This material fact was not disclosed when the court heard the application on March 4.
    • The Bench reprimanded DDA for not providing records of the Delhi LG’s (Chairman of the DDA) February 3 visit to the site, which allegedly led to the tree felling order. The Delhi government was also reprimanded for usurping the Tree Officer’s authority in granting permission.
    • The apex court has halted the DDA’s work and directed a team from the FSI to assess the number of trees cut and the environmental damage.

    Law governing Tree Protection in Delhi:

    Delhi Preservation of Trees Act (DPTA), 1994 provides legal protection to trees in the national capital against actions that could harm their growth or regeneration.

    • The Act defines a tree as “a woody plant that has branches supported by a trunk or a body of at least 5cm diameter and is at least 1 metre high from the ground”.
    • Section 2 (h) of the Act defines “to fell a tree” to include severing the trunk from the roots, uprooting, bulldozing, cutting, girdling, lopping, pollarding, applying arboricides, burning, or any other damaging method.
    • Under Section 8, no tree or forest produce can be removed on any land without prior permission from the ‘Tree Officer’, even on privately owned property. The ‘Tree Officer’ must respond within 60 days after inspection.
      • Violations of this Act may result in imprisonment for up to one year, a fine up to ₹1,000, or both.
    • The Act outlines a ‘Tree Authority’ responsible for conducting tree censuses, managing nurseries, and reviewing government and private construction proposals.
    • Delhi’s Tree Transplantation Policy, 2020 mandates that 80% of identified trees slated for felling must be transplanted. However, an affidavit submitted by the government to the Delhi High Court in 2022 disclosed that only 33.33% of transplanted trees had survived.

    About Asola Bhatti WLS

    Situated in the southern part of Delhi and extends into Faridabad and Gurugram districts of Haryana.

    • Occupies 32.71 sq. km on the Aravalli hill range’s Southern Delhi Ridge, bordering Delhi and Haryana.
    • Forms a part of Rajasthan’s Sariska Tiger Reserve to the Delhi Ridge.
    • Classified under Northern Tropical Thorn Forests.
    • Plant Features plants with xerophytic characteristics like thorns, wax-coated and succulent leaves.
    • Characterized by the presence of the exotic Prosopis juliflora and the native Diospyros montana.
    • Home to species such as Golden Jackals, Striped-Hyenas, Indian Crested-Porcupines, Civets, Jungle Cats, various snakes, Monitor Lizards, and Mongoose.

     

    Conclusion: The Supreme Court’s directive to enhance Delhi’s green cover is a crucial step towards mitigating the impacts of extreme heat waves and improving the city’s air quality.

    PYQ:

    [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. 

     

  • [8th July 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: A law around low-carbon climate-resilient development

     

    PYQ Relevance:

    Mains: 

    Q) Climate change’ is a global problem. How India will be affected by climate change? How Himalayan and coastal states of India will be affected by climate change? (UPSC CSE 2017) 

    Q) ‘Clean energy is the order of the day.’ Describe briefly India’s changing policy towards climate change in various international fora in the context of geopolitics. (UPSC CSE 2022) 

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims: Supreme court judgements related to climate change impact,

    Mains:  Role of state and local Government to address the impact of climate change, 

    Mentor comment: Climate change poses grave threats to human rights, including the rights to life, health, food, water, housing, and an adequate standard of living. Extreme weather events, sea-level rise, and environmental degradation disproportionately impact vulnerable populations. Governments have a legal obligation to curb climate change, and corporations must respect human rights by reducing emissions and adapting to climate impacts. Addressing climate change is crucial to upholding human rights and ensuring a sustainable future for all.

    Let’s learn!

    __ __

    Why in the news? 

    In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court of India recently recognized a right to be “free from the adverse impacts of climate change” in “M.K. Ranjitsinh and Others vs Union of India”, deriving it from the right to life and the right to equality.

    Law to inform development choices 

    • Integrating Climate Objectives into Development: Ensure that low-carbon and climate-resilient futures are prioritized in routine decision-making at all levels of development. Embed climate objectives in the legal framework to guide sustainable development choices.
    • Grounding Climate Action in Social Justice: Design laws to protect vulnerable populations disproportionately affected by climate change. Ensure the energy transition is just and equitable, advancing social justice and inclusive development.
    • Adopting a Comprehensive and Flexible Approach: Move beyond top-down emission targets to address broader developmental choices and their long-term impacts. Establish well-defined legal procedures that promote continuous consideration of low-carbon and climate-resilient futures.
    • Building a Robust Institutional Framework: Create an institutional structure to strategize, prioritize, troubleshoot, and evaluate climate policies. Enhance governance capacity to ensure credible and accountable climate action across all levels of government.
    • Tailoring Framework Climate Laws to the Indian Context: Adapt elements of global framework climate laws to suit India’s specific needs, focusing on maximising development per unit of carbon emitted. Emphasize climate resilience and social equity, ensuring development progresses in a low-carbon direction while building resilience to pervasive climate impacts.

     Need for a Low-Carbon Development Body

    • Rigorous Policy Analysis and Knowledge Generation: Establish a knowledge body in government to rigorously analyze policy options and their potential futures. Enable informed decision-making through a comprehensive understanding of low-carbon development and resilience strategies.
    • Expertise and Technical Guidance: Create an independent ‘low-carbon development commission’ staffed with experts and technical personnel. Provide national and state governments with practical guidance on achieving low-carbon growth and resilience.
    • Deliberative Decision-Making and Stakeholder Consultation: Facilitate a platform for deliberative decision-making involving multiple stakeholders. Systematically consult vulnerable communities and those adversely affected by technological changes to ensure their concerns are heard and integrated, leading to more sustainable and inclusive policy outcomes.
    • Strategic Direction and Whole-of-Government Coordination: Form a high-level strategic body, or ‘climate cabinet,’ comprising key Ministers and representation from State Chief Ministers to drive climate strategy across government. Address the challenge of siloed decision-making by promoting a whole-of-government approach with dedicated coordination mechanisms.
    • Enhanced Governance and Legal Empowerment: Complement the role of the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change with higher-level coordination bodies. Reinforce existing structures like the Executive Committee on Climate Change with clearly defined legal powers and duties to ensure effective implementation and accountability in climate governance.

    Role of State and Local Governments in Climate Law

    • Engagement with Federal Structure: Recognize the importance of India’s federal structure in climate governance. Acknowledge that crucial areas for emission reduction and resilience improvement, such as electricity, agriculture, water, health, and soil, are managed by State and local governments.
    • First Responders to Climate Impacts: Understand that climate impacts are felt first and most intensely at local levels. Ensure that any institutional structure or regulatory instrument engages meaningfully with subnational governments.
    • Access to National Scientific Capacity: Establish channels for subnational governments to access national scientific resources and expertise. Utilize the low-carbon development commission as an intermediary to enhance local climate scientific capacity.
    • Financing Local Action: Develop mechanisms for financing local climate actions. Align centrally-sponsored schemes with climate goals and require national departments to climate-tag expenditures to enhance local climate resilience.
    • Coordination Mechanisms and Unified Goals: Create coordination mechanisms for the Centre and States to consult on major climate decisions. Require periodic updates of medium-term climate plans from both Centre and States, built around unified climate goals.
    • State-Specific Solutions and Institutions: Enable States to develop complementary institutions to those at the Centre, providing local knowledge, strategy-setting, deliberation, and coordination functions. Foster the development of State-specific solutions that address unique local climate challenges.

    Steps taken by Government to address the impact of climate change: 

    • International Solar Alliance (ISA): Launched in 2015, this alliance aims to efficiently utilize solar energy and reduce dependence on non-renewable sources like fossil fuels.
    • One Sun, One World, One Grid (OSOWOG) project with the UK: This project aims to build and scale inter-regional energy grids to share solar energy globally.
    • Swachh Bharat Mission: This program emphasized cleaning India’s cities and villages by providing toilets for every household.
    • National Clean Air Programme: Launched in 2019 to reduce particulate matter concentrations in the atmosphere.
    • Green Skill Development Programme: Launched to develop green skills and provide employment in the environment and forest sectors.
    • Commitment to get 50% of energy from renewable sources and reduce total projected carbon emissions by 1 billion tonnes by 2030: The government aims to ensure sustainable development of the environment.
    • Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid & Electric Vehicles (FAME) India scheme: Launched in 2015 to promote electric vehicles and decrease coal consumption.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Institutional and Legal Frameworks: Establish robust institutions like an independent low-carbon development commission to provide expert guidance, facilitate stakeholder consultations, and ensure informed decision-making.  
    • Promote Inclusive and Equitable Climate Action: Integrate social equity considerations into climate policies by systematically consulting vulnerable communities and those affected by technological changes.  

  • The shape of a five-year climate agenda for India

    Why in the news? 

    The new government’s climate actions will impact all sectors, shaping India’s sustainable economic path, global leadership, and fight for climate finance and justice.

    Initiatives Taken by the Indian Government in the Last Decade and Their Significant Results

    • International Solar Alliance (ISA): Promotes the widespread adoption of solar energy, enhancing global cooperation in renewable energy.
    • Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI): Focuses on building resilient infrastructure to withstand climate-induced disasters.
    •  Net-Zero by 2070: India’s commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070 marks a significant shift towards absolute emission reductions.
    • Enhanced Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs): Setting ambitious targets for reducing emissions intensity and increasing renewable energy capacity.
    • Indian Emissions Carbon Trading Scheme: Establishing a carbon trading system to incentivize emission reductions and support sustainable economic growth.
    • Significant Growth in Renewable Energy Capacity: Rapid expansion in solar and wind energy installations, contributing to India’s international non-fossil fuel energy targets.
    • Green Development Pact under G-20 Presidency: Integrating green development principles into global economic practices, showcasing India’s leadership in sustainable development.

    How India can enhance it’s Global negotiations wrt Climate change? 

    • Hosting International Climate Summits: India should aim to host a major international climate summit like the United Nations Conference of Parties (COP) in 2028. This would provide a platform to showcase its climate leadership and set ambitious global climate agendas. Successful hosting, akin to its G-20 Presidency, would strengthen India’s influence in global climate policy.
    • Advocacy and Consensus Building: India should start early to build consensus on critical climate issues, such as ending new investments in oil and gas post-2030 and securing significant commitments for adaptation finance. Proactively engaging in dialogues, forming alliances, and addressing concerns of other nations will help India lead negotiations and drive meaningful outcomes.
    • Promoting Equity and Climate Finance: India should continue to emphasize equity in climate action and finance in international forums. Advocating for fair treatment of developing countries and pushing for enhanced climate finance mechanisms will strengthen India’s position as a leader of the Global South.

    Role of Federal Entities in Enhancing Climate Action

    • Collaboration on Long-Term Climate Strategies: Federal entities can work with state governments to develop and implement long-term climate and energy models. Examples include supporting states like Tamil Nadu and Bihar in crafting their net-zero plans.
    • Enhanced Coordination and Policy Alignment: Forming a Centre-State coordination group can ensure better synchronization of climate actions across states. This group can facilitate regular communication and policy alignment while respecting the autonomy of each state.
    • Financial Incentives through the Sixteenth Finance Commission: Federal entities can use financial mechanisms like the Finance Commission to incentivize states for their climate initiatives. This can include grants or additional funding for states that demonstrate significant progress in climate action.
    • Integration of Scientific Capabilities in Policymaking: Encouraging states to incorporate scientific modelling and data analysis into their climate policies. Federal support can enhance the technical capabilities of states, ensuring data-driven and effective climate strategies.
    • Consistent and Accurate Climate Data Management: Developing a unified MRV architecture at the state level to standardize data collection and reporting. This system can help track progress, ensure accountability, and facilitate better policy adjustments based on reliable data.

    The Indian government has taken several initiatives to address climate change, but their effectiveness is still being evaluated:

    • National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC): Launched in 2008, the NAPCC identified eight national missions to promote understanding of climate change, adaptation and mitigation, energy efficiency, and natural resource conservation. While these missions have led to some progress, such as the ambitious targets set under the National Solar Mission, their overall impact is still being assessed.
    • State Action Plans on Climate Change (SAPCCs): Under the NAPCC, states are required to develop their own action plans. As of 2022, 33 states and union territories have prepared their SAPCCs. However, the implementation and monitoring of these plans remain a challenge.
    • Climate change research and knowledge networks: The government has supported various research initiatives and knowledge networks to enhance understanding of climate change impacts and responses. These include the National Network Programmes on Climate Change Modelling, Aerosols, and Coastal Vulnerability. While these networks have generated valuable knowledge, their ability to inform policy and action is still being evaluated

    Conclusion: India should expand its climate targets beyond the power sector to include other key areas such as transportation, industry, and agriculture. Clear and ambitious targets for zero-carbon two- and four-wheelers, as well as other sectors, will drive comprehensive decarbonization efforts.

     

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Explain the purpose of the Green Grid Initiative launched at World Leaders Summit of the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in November 2021. When was this idea first floated in the International Solar Alliance (ISA)? (UPSC IAS/2021)