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Subject: Environment

  • [28th July 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: How is India preparing against GLOF events?

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2024] What is disaster resilience? How is it determined? Describe various elements of a resilience framework. Also mention the global targets of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030).

    Linkage: The article explicitly states that the NDMA has “markedly accelerated its efforts to manage these increasing risks” and initiated a “proactive shift from mere post-disaster response to risk reduction through its Committee on Disaster Risk Reduction (CoDRR)”. This directly links to the concept of “disaster resilience” and “Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR),” which are central to India’s preparedness strategy for GLOF events.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  On July 8, 2025, Nepal experienced a major Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF), which triggered a flash flood along the Lende River, destroying a China-built friendship bridge and disabling four hydropower plants, cutting off 8% of Nepal’s power supply. This catastrophe highlights the growing threat of GLOFs due to glacial melt from rising temperatures in the Himalayas. The incident has raised concerns over the lack of trans-boundary early warning systems, particularly between China and Nepal. It also drew attention to India’s vulnerability, as the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) contains 7,500 glacial lakes, many at high risk of GLOF due to climate change, poor monitoring infrastructure, and lack of early warning systems. India’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has responded by launching a national programme targeting 195 at-risk glacial lakes, focusing on hazard assessment, early warning systems, risk mitigation, and community engagement.

    Today’s editorial analyses the major Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in Himalaya region. This topic is important for GS Paper III (Environment) in the UPSC mains exam.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Recently, Nepal faced a major Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF), which led to a sudden flash flood along the Lende River.  

    What are GLOFs?

    • GLOFs are sudden floods caused by the breach of natural or man-made dams holding glacial lakes, releasing large volumes of water.
    • Himalayan Spread: The Himalayas across India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet host thousands of glacial lakes, many near international borders. India has 7,500+ glacial lakes, with 200+ deemed potentially dangerous.

     

    What are their transboundary risks in the Himalayas?

    • Trans-boundary Risk: GLOFs from upstream countries (e.g. China) can impact downstream nations (India, Nepal, Bhutan) without early warning. Eg: The July 2024 Tibetan GLOF damaged Nepal’s Rasuwagadhi hydropower project with no prior alert.
    • Lack of Data Sharing: Minimal real-time data exchange between neighbours hampers early warning and risk management. Eg: Nepal got no warning from China during the 2024 GLOF.

    How has climate change increased GLOF frequency in the IHR?

    • Accelerated Glacier Melting: Rising temperatures cause glacier retreat and formation of unstable glacial lakes. Eg: Milam Glacier, Uttarakhand shows rapid retreat, increasing GLOF risk.
    • Extreme Precipitation: Intense rainfall from climate change can overfill lakes, causing breaches. Eg: Gya GLOF (2014) in Ladakh followed heavy rainfall, damaging infrastructure.
    • Increased Landslides: Thawing permafrost and unstable slopes trigger landslides into lakes, displacing water and causing GLOFs. Eg: 2013 Chorabari Glacier landslide near Kedarnath worsened the flood impact.

    What measures has India taken for GLOF mitigation?

    • Early Warning Systems (EWS): Installed to detect rising water levels and trigger alerts. Eg: EWS at South Lhonak Lake, Sikkim before 2023 GLOF.
    • Satellite Monitoring: ISRO-NRSC use remote sensing to track glacial lakes. Eg: Monitored via Bhuvan portal in Ladakh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh.
    • Risk Mapping: NMSHE identifies high-risk areas for targeted intervention. Eg: Studies in Kinnaur and Chamoli flagged vulnerable lakes.
    • Engineering Measures: Lake drainage and structural control to prevent overflow. Eg: Work at Tsho Rolpa Lake (Nepal) as a replicable model.
    • Community Preparedness: NDMA and states run drills and awareness programs. Eg: Mock drills in Uttarkashi and Kullu.

    What are the gaps? 

    • Weak Early Warning Systems (EWS): India lacks real-time sensors, automated sirens, and alert mechanisms. Eg: No early alerts during Chamoli disaster (2021).
    • Low Community Preparedness: Most villages in Sikkim and Uttarakhand lack evacuation protocols and disaster training.
    • Poor Transboundary Coordination: Minimal data sharing with China hinders early action in regions like Arunachal Pradesh.
    • Infrastructure Vulnerability: Bridges and dams not designed for GLOFs.
      Eg: Chungthang dam breach (2023) exposed weak infrastructure.
    • Limited Scientific Capacity: Shortage of glaciologists, risk modelers, and ground validation limits NDMA’s effectiveness.

    Way forward: 

    •  Strengthen Early Warning Systems: Deploy real-time sensors, sirens, and automated alerts in high-risk zones.
    • Enhance Transboundary Cooperation: Establish formal data-sharing agreements with China, Nepal, and Bhutan.
    • Build Local Preparedness: Conduct regular community drills, awareness drives, and evacuation planning.
    • Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Design dams, bridges, and power projects to withstand GLOF surges.
    • Invest in Research & Capacity: Train glaciologists, improve satellite-ground integration, and support Himalayan climate studies.

  • The scientist who made ‘mangroves’ a buzzword

    Why in the News?

    World Mangrove Day was observed on July 26. The occasion also recalled the pioneering role of M.S. Swaminathan in promoting mangrove conservation through initiatives like the International Society for Mangrove Ecosystems (ISME), GLOMIS, and the fishbone canal method of restoration.

    Role of M.S. Swaminathan in mangrove conservation

    • As early as 1989, he advocated using mangroves for climate resilience in coastal areas.
    • Proposed developing salinity-tolerant crops (e.g., rice) using mangrove genes.
    • Played a key role in founding the International Society for Mangrove Ecosystems (ISME) in 1990, promoting global knowledge exchange.
    • Co-authored the Charter for Mangroves, which was later included in the World Charter for Nature (1992) by the UN.
    • Led Community-Based Restoration in India through the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF).

    What is the ‘fishbone canal’ method? What are its advantages?

    The method mimics the natural branching pattern of rivers. It allows tidal waters to penetrate deep into degraded mangrove areas. Eg: In Tamil Nadu’s Pichavaram, fishbone canals revived previously stagnant mangrove zones, promoting natural seed dispersal.

    Advantages of the method

    1. Facilitates Natural Regeneration: By improving hydrology, it creates conditions suitable for natural mangrove seedling establishment without extensive manual planting. Eg: In Odisha’s Bhitarkanika, the method led to spontaneous growth of native mangrove species.
    2. Cost-Effective: Compared to large-scale planting, this method is less resource-intensive 
    3. It preserves ecosystem integrity.

    How have global and national initiatives reshaped mangrove management?

    • Shift Towards Community-Based Conservation: Focus has moved from government-led to community-driven models, recognising local knowledge and stakeholder participation. Eg: Eg: Sundarbans’ Joint Forest Committees empower villagers in conservation.
    • Integration with Climate Resilience Strategies: Mangroves are now seen as vital for disaster risk reduction and carbon sequestration. Eg: Indonesia’s “Mangroves for Coastal Resilience” project links mangrove conservation with coastal protection and blue carbon goals.
    • Technological Interventions and Scientific Planning: Use of GIS mapping, remote sensing, and hydrological modelling has made restoration more precise and scalable. Eg: In Andhra Pradesh, the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project used satellite data to identify degraded mangrove areas for targeted restoration.

    How did India’s mangrove policy evolve post-1980 ?

    • CRZ Inclusion (1991): Mangroves declared ecologically sensitive under CRZ Rules, restricting commercial activity.
    • Post-Tsunami Shift (2004): Indian Ocean Tsunami highlighted mangroves as bio-shields, leading to their inclusion in disaster risk and coastal zone policies.
    • Boost in Support (Post-2005): Initiatives like the National Coastal Mission and remote sensing-based mapping promoted monitoring and restoration.

    What are ISME and GLOMIS?

    • ISME (International Society for Mangrove Ecosystems) is a global non-profit organization founded in 1990 to promote the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of mangrove ecosystems through research, training, and international cooperation. It also offers technical support and capacity building for sustainable mangrove management.
    • GLOMIS (Global Mangrove Database and Information System), developed by ISME, is a centralized database that provides scientific data, GIS mapping, and case studies to support effective mangrove management and policymaking worldwide. GLOMIS serves as a database for mangrove species, restoration efforts, and GIS data.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Community-Based Restoration: Empower local communities through training, sustainable livelihood support, and participation in restoration using techniques like the ‘fishbone canal’ method for greater ecological success.
    • Leverage Technology and Global Networks: Use remote sensing, GIS, and platforms like GLOMIS for monitoring mangrove health, while collaborating with international bodies like ISME to adopt best global practices.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2019] Discuss the causes of depletion of mangroves and explain their importance in maintaining coastal ecology.

    Linkage: This question is directly and explicitly about mangroves, focusing on two key aspects: their depletion and their importance in maintaining coastal ecology. The fact that such a detailed question appeared in the examination signifies the recognized environmental importance and public awareness surrounding mangroves. A scientist’s work to popularize mangroves would logically contribute to this level of public and academic interest.

  • Ramsar COP15 opens in Zimbabwe

    Why in the News?

    Delegates from 172 countries convened in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, for the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties (COP15) to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.

    Highlights of Ramsar COP15

    • Theme: Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future
    • Host Nation: Zimbabwe (holds presidency of the Ramsar Convention for 3 years)
    • Expected Outcome: Adoption of the Victoria Falls Declaration, a global framework to protect wetlands

    About the Ramsar Convention:

    • Adopted on: 2 February 1971, in Ramsar, Iran.
    • Objective: Conserve and ensure the wise use of wetlands globally.
    • Key Functions:
      • Identify wetlands of international importance.
      • Promote sustainable management practices.
      • Foster international cooperation in wetland conservation.
    • Governing Body:
      • Conference of the Contracting Parties (COP) meets every 3 years.
      • Reviews implementation, adopts site designations, budgets, and policy actions.
      • Includes member + non-member states, IGOs, and NGOs as observers.

    Criteria for Ramsar Site Designation:

    A wetland must meet at least one of the following 9 criteria:

    1. Unique or rare wetland type.
    2. Habitat for endangered, vulnerable, or endemic species.
    3. Crucial for migratory waterbirds.
    4. High ecological, hydrological, or biodiversity value.
    5. Supports ecosystem services (e.g., flood control, water purification).
    6. Provides cultural or spiritual value.
    7. Serves sustainable community livelihoods.
    8. Holds scientific or educational importance.
    9. Requires global cooperation due to threats.

    India and the Ramsar Convention:

    • Joined on: 1 February 1982.
    • First Ramsar Site: Chilika Lake (Odisha), 1981.
    • As of July 2025:
      • Total sites: 91
      • Total area: ~13.58 lakh hectares
      • % of India’s wetland area under Ramsar: ~10%
    • Top States: Tamil Nadu: 20 sites (highest); Uttar Pradesh: 10 sites
    • Note: India has never chaired a Ramsar COP session.

    Global Snapshot and Other Facts:

    • Total Members: 171 countries.
    • Leading Countries:
      • United Kingdom: 175 sites (most)
      • Mexico: 142 sites
      • Bolivia: Largest area (~1.48 lakh sq. km under protection)
    • World Wetlands Day: Celebrated on 2 February annually.
    • Montreux Record: Register for Ramsar sites under serious threat needing urgent conservation.
    [UPSC 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 Ramsar Convention.

    3. These Rules 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?

    Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 only* (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • 150 years of Jim Corbett

    Why in the News?

    As India marks Jim Corbett’s 150th birth anniversary (1875–2025), it reflects on his legacy as a hunter, naturalist, author, and conservationist—after whom Corbett National Park is named.

    https://www.downtoearth.org.in/wildlife-biodiversity/150-years-of-jim-corbett-will-the-real-carpet-sahib-please-stand-up 

    Who was Jim Corbett?

    • Full Name: Edward James Corbett (1875–1955), nicknamed Carpet Sahib in Kumaon.
    • Profession: British hunter, naturalist, author, and later a wildlife conservationist.
    • Famous Books: Man-Eaters of Kumaon, The Man-Eating Leopard of Rudraprayag, My India, Jungle Lore, Tree Tops.
    • Hunter Turned Hero:
      • Known for tracking and killing man-eating tigers and leopards in Kumaon and Garhwal.
      • Used patient observation and deep knowledge of terrain and animal behaviour.
    • Shift to Conservation:
      • Grew concerned about dwindling tiger numbers and deforestation.
      • Advocated for wildlife protection and ecological balance.
    • Commemoration: India’s first national park was renamed Jim Corbett National Park in 1957 in his honour.

    Back2Basics: Jim Corbett National Park

    • Established: 1936 as Hailey National Park; later renamed in 1957.
    • Location: Nainital district, Uttarakhand; core of Corbett Tiger Reserve.
    • Historical Importance:
      • Launch site of Project Tiger in 1973, India’s flagship tiger conservation programme.
    • Geography:
      • Lies in Shivalik and Outer Himalayan foothills.
      • Rivers: Ramganga, Sonanadi, Mandal, Palain, and Kosi.
      • Area: Over 500 sq km (includes Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary as buffer).
    • Biodiversity:
      • Flora: Moist deciduous forest with Sal, Khair, and Sissoo; 600+ plant species.
      • Fauna: Over 230 tigers (highest density in the world), elephants, leopards, deer (sambar, chital, barking), sloth bears, wild boars, birds, and reptiles.

     

    [UPSC 2013] Consider the following pairs : National Park River flowing through the Park

    1. Corbett National Park : Ganga

    2. Kaziranga National Park : Manas

    3. Silent Valley National Park : Kaveri

    Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?

    (a) 1 and 2 (b) 3 only (c) 1 and 3 (d) None*

     

  • Coral Loss in Lakshadweep

    Why in the News?

    A 24-year-long study conducted by the Nature Conservation Foundation reveals that coral cover in Lakshadweep has declined by 50% since 1998.

    Coral Decline in Lakshadweep: Key Highlights

    • Study Duration: Based on a 24-year study (1998–2022).
    • Findings: 50% decline in live coral cover—from 37.2% to 19.6%.
    • Main Cause: Repeated marine heatwaves linked to climate change.
    • Study Locations: Monitored across Agatti, Kadmat, and Kavaratti atolls.
    • Response Clusters: Six coral groups identified based on:
      • Depth and wave exposure
      • Heat resistance and recovery patterns
    • Recovery Timeline: Requires at least 6 years without bleaching for healthy regeneration.

    Back2Basics: Corals and Coral Bleaching:

    • About: Corals are colonies of tiny animals called polyps, which build calcium carbonate skeletons.
    • Symbiotic Algae: Host zooxanthellae, microscopic algae that provide nutrients via photosynthesis.
    • Coral Types:
      • Hard Corals: Form reef structures (e.g., brain coral, staghorn coral).
      • Soft Corals: Flexible, grow on reef surfaces but do not build reefs.
    • Habitat Requirements:
      • Water Quality: Must be clean and low in sediment.
      • Temperature Range: Prefer 20–21°C.
      • Depth: Typically found in waters less than 90 metres deep.
      • Salinity: Optimal range is 27–30 parts per thousand (ppt).
      • Ocean Currents: Require nutrient-rich water flow.
    • Coral Bleaching:
      • Cause: Triggered by heat stress, pollution, or acidification, which drive algae out.
      • Effect: Coral turns white due to loss of algae; Loses its main food source. Dies if stress persists for long periods.
    [UPSC 2022] “Biorock Technology” is talked about in which one of the following situations?

    Options: (a) Restoration of damaged coral reefs * (b) Development of building materials using plant residues (c) Identification of areas for exploration/extraction of shale gas  (d) Providing salt licks for wild animals in forests

     

  • Towards Resilient and Prosperous Cities in India: World Bank Report (2024)

    Why in the News?

    The World Bank’s report, “Towards Resilient and Prosperous Cities in India”, warns that climate risks like extreme heat and floods threaten India’s cities, despite their role as economic growth engines.

    About the ‘Towards Resilient and Prosperous Cities in India’ Report

    • Prepared By: World Bank in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
    • Focus: Evaluates Indian cities’ exposure to climate risks like heatwaves and urban flooding
    • Scope: Covers 24 cities with deeper analysis of Chennai, Indore, New Delhi, Lucknow, Surat, and Thiruvananthapuram
    • Support: Backed by Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR)

    Key Highlights:

    • Urban Growth:
      • 70% of new jobs to emerge in urban areas by 2030
      • Urban population to nearly double to 951 million by 2050
      • Estimated housing demand: 144 million new homes by 2070
    • Climate Vulnerabilities:
      • Urban heat: City temperatures rising by 3–4°C due to the heat island effect
      • Flood risk: Rapid construction limiting natural drainage and stormwater absorption
    • Investment Needs: $2.4 trillion required by 2050 for low-carbon, climate-resilient infrastructure
    • Recommendations:
      • Promote cool roofs, urban green spaces, and early warning systems
      • Invest in energy-efficient housing, flood-resilient transport, and waste systems
      • Strengthen urban financial systems and incentivize private participation

    Back2Basics: World Bank

    • Overview: A global development organisation supporting economic progress in developing nations
    • Founded: 1944 at the Bretton Woods Conference
    • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., United States
    • Members: 189 countries
    • India and the WB:
      • India is a founding member of the IBRD and currently participates in four out of the five World Bank Group entities.
      • India’s first World Bank loan, in 1948, was for railway rehabilitation.
    • Constituent Institutions:
      • IBRD – International Bank for Reconstruction and Development
      • IDA – International Development Association
      • IFC – International Finance Corporation
      • MIGA – Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency
      • ICSID – International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes
    • Key Reports:
      • World Development Report
      • Global Economic Prospects
      • Ease of Doing Business Index (now replaced)
      • Business Ready (B-READY)

     

    [UPSC 2025] The World Bank warned that India could become one of the first places where wet-bulb temperatures routinely exceed 35°C. Which of the following statements best reflect(s) the implication of the above-said report?

    I. Peninsular India will most likely suffer from flooding, tropical cyclones and droughts. II. The survival of animals including humans will be affected as shedding of their body heat through perspiration becomes difficult.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    Options: (a) I only (b) II only* (c) Both I and II (d) Neither I nor II

     

  • [pib] New Lichen Species reveals ancient Symbiosis

    Why in the News?

    A team of Indian scientists has discovered a new species of lichen, Allographa effusosoredica, in the Western Ghats, a global biodiversity hotspot.

    What are Lichens?

    lichen

    • Lichens are symbiotic organisms, composed of a fungus (mycobiont) and a photosynthetic partner (photobiont)—either a green alga or a cyanobacterium.
    • The fungus provides structure and protection, while the photobiont produces food through photosynthesis.
    • Lichens are key ecological contributors:
      • They build soil by breaking down rocks.
      • Serve as bioindicators of environmental and air quality.
      • Provide food for insects and small animals.
    • Despite being often overlooked, lichens are vital to ecosystem stability and resilience.

    About the Newly Discovered Lichen Species:

    • Discovery: Allographa effusosoredica was discovered in the Western Ghats by MACS-Agarkar Research Institute, Pune.
    • First of Its Kind: First Indian Allographa species confirmed using molecular data.
    • Biodiversity Addition: 53rd Allographa species in India; 22nd from the Western Ghats.
    • Funding Support: Research funded by Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) under a lichen symbiosis project.

    Key Features Revealed:

    • Morphology: Crustose body with effuse soredia; Contains norstictic acid—rare among related species.
    • Algal Partner: Photobiont identified as Trentepohlia, expanding understanding of tropical lichen symbiosis.
    • Molecular Markers: Analysis used fungal markers (mtSSU, LSU, RPB2) and algal marker (ITS).
    • Phylogenetic Placement: Closely related to Allographa xanthospora; visually similar to Graphis glaucescens.
    [UPSC 2014] Lichens, which are capable of initiating ecological succession even on a bare rock, are actually a symbiotic association of:

    Options: (a) algae and bacteria (b) algae and fungi* (c) bacteria and fungi (d) fungi and mosses

     

  • [16th July 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: How is global shipping trying to decarbonise?

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2022] Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997.

    Linkage: The fundamental objective behind global shipping’s decarbonization efforts is to reduce the level of greenhouse gases (GHGs) to combat global warming. The shift to green fuels like green ammonia and e-methanol by the shipping industry represents a crucial “control measure” aimed at achieving this objective.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  India is positioning itself as a global hub for green marine fuels like green methanol and green ammonia, aligning with global shipping’s decarbonisation goals by 2040–2050. With strong policy support, India is accelerating electrolyser manufacturing, advancing carbon capture technologies, and reviving its shipbuilding sector. By promoting green fuel exports, the country aims to seize a strategic opportunity in the global transition to clean energy and assert its maritime leadership in the emerging green shipping economy.

    Today’s editorial analyses the green fuels in shipping decarbonisation. This topic is important for  GS Paper III (Environment) in the UPSC mains exam.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Recently, Global shipping is moving towards reducing carbon emissions by 2040–2050, which offers a major opportunity for India. Currently, most merchant ships run on fuels like Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO), diesel, and liquefied methane gas.

    What are green fuels?

    • Green fuels are derived from green hydrogen, which is produced by electrolysis of water using renewable energy (e.g., solar, wind). Green ammonia is created by combining green hydrogen and nitrogen.
    • Green methanol is produced from green hydrogen and CO₂ (captured from industrial sources). These fuels are carbon-neutral or low-carbon alternatives to conventional shipping fuels like VLSFO or LNG.

    How do green fuels aid in shipping decarbonisation?

    • Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Green fuels like green methanol and green ammonia significantly reduce or eliminate CO₂ and GHG emissions compared to traditional fossil fuels such as VLSFO and LNG. Eg: Green methanol emits about 10% of CO₂ compared to VLSFO, while green ammonia emits virtually zero greenhouse gases.
    • Compatibility with Existing Systems (for Transition): Green methanol is a suitable transitional fuel requiring minimal retrofitting of existing ship engines, supporting a smooth shift from fossil fuels. Eg: Over 360 methanol-capable ships are already in service or on order, including by global giants like Maersk and CMA CGM.
    • Enables Compliance with Future Emission Norms: Adoption of green fuels ensures alignment with global decarbonisation goals and helps meet emission standards set for 2040–2050 by international maritime bodies. Eg: India’s initiative to build green fuel hubs at Tuticorin and Kandla supports compliance with IMO’s emission targets.

    How can India become a global hub for marine green fuel production?

    • Utilising Coastal Industrial Clusters for Integrated Green Fuel Zones: India can leverage existing coastal industrial zones to integrate green fuel production with port logistics, reducing supply chain costs and boosting efficiency. Eg: The Mumbai–Pune industrial corridor near the Jawaharlal Nehru Port can be developed into a green methanol hub with co-located renewable energy, CO₂ sources, and export terminals.
    • Exporting Green Fuels Through Strategic Trade Partnerships: By forging long-term green energy export agreements with fuel-deficit countries, India can secure demand and scale up production. Eg: A partnership with the European Union’s FuelEU Maritime initiative could enable India to export green methanol to European ports aiming for carbon-neutral shipping.
    • Establishing Research and Innovation Centers in Maritime States: Setting up marine green fuel R&D centres in states like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, or Odisha can drive innovation in fuel production, storage, and engine retrofits. Eg: A dedicated Marine Energy Innovation Park in Visakhapatnam could support pilot projects for green ammonia engines and advanced electrolyser technology.

    What are the challenges? 

    • High Capital Costs and Infrastructure Requirements: Transitioning to green fuels requires significant investments in retrofitting ships, building new vessels, and developing bunkering infrastructure. Eg: Installing methanol-compatible systems or ammonia handling setups onboard involves major design changes and safety adaptations, slowing adoption.
    • Limited Availability and High Price of Green Fuels: Green fuels like e-methanol and green ammonia are still expensive and scarce due to high renewable electricity costsand limited production capacity. Eg: In February, e-methanol cost $1,950/tonne in Singapore, compared to $560/tonne for VLSFO, making the shift economically difficult.

    What are the policy and financial tools that are key to scaling green methanol in India?

    • Sovereign Guarantees and Off-take Assurance: Government-backed sovereign guarantees reduce investment risks and enable access to low-cost international finance, while off-take agreements ensure steady demand, improving project bankability.
    • Production-Linked Incentives (PLI) and Domestic Manufacturing Support: PLI schemes for electrolyser manufacturing help reduce import dependence, lower production costs, and localise the green fuel value chain.
    • Carbon Capture and CCUS Incentives: Policy incentives for Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS) make it viable to obtain CO₂ from industrial sources, which is essential for green methanol production using green hydrogen.

    In what ways can green fuel shipbuilding boost India’s maritime sector?

    • Revival of Domestic Shipyards through High-Value Orders: Building green fuel-compatible ships can generate consistent demand for Indian shipyards, modernising infrastructure and creating skilled employment. Eg: Reviving the Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in Andhra Pradesh with contracts for green ferries and coastal cargo vessels can reinvigorate domestic shipbuilding.
    • Enhancing India’s Global Ship Export Potential: Developing expertise in green shipbuilding can position India as an exporter of eco-friendly vessels to emerging markets transitioning to low-emission fleets. Eg: India can export hybrid-electric and green methanol-compatible vessels to island nations in the Indian Ocean and Africa implementing IMO emission norms.
    • Strengthening India’s Role in the Green Maritime Supply Chain: Green shipbuilding can attract global OEMs and technology partners, integrating India into the international green maritime supply chain. Eg: Setting up a Green Marine Innovation Cluster in Kochi with global collaboration could turn the region into a hub for next-gen ship components and propulsion systems.

    Case study: 

    • Denmark – Green Methanol Leadership: Denmark, through Maersk, is leading the global shift to green methanol-powered shipping, with multiple vessels ordered and partnerships for fuel production. Government support and private sector collaboration have positioned Denmark as a model for green shipping innovation and sustainable maritime infrastructure.
    • Japan – Advancing Green Ammonia Shipping: Japan is pioneering green ammonia as a marine fuel with state-backed funding, R&D, and prototype vessels under companies like NYK Line. Its investments in ammonia bunkering infrastructure and domestic shipbuilding are helping build a complete green maritime ecosystem.

    Way forward: 

    • Develop Integrated Green Maritime Ecosystems: India should establish green fuel production, bunkering, and shipbuilding hubs along key coastal regions by combining policy incentives, infrastructure investment, and private sector participation.
    • Leverage Financial Tools and Global Partnerships: Use sovereign guarantees, PLI schemes, and international green financing to scale up green methanol projects, while forging strategic trade and technology alliances with global maritime leaders.

  • Rhino DNA Index System (RhODIS)

    Why in the News?

    The Assam Forest Department is conducting DNA profiling of 2,500 rhino horns using the Rhino DNA Index System (RhODIS) to aid wildlife forensics and curb illegal trade.

    What is Rhino DNA Index System (RhODIS)?

    • Overview: It is a wildlife forensic tool designed to combat rhino poaching through DNA profiling.
    • Development: It was originally developed by South Africa and later adapted for use in India.
    • Working: The system helps build a genetic database of individual rhinos by collecting DNA from horns, tissues, dung, or blood samples.
    • Utility: Each rhino has a unique DNA profile, making it possible to match confiscated horns with individual animals or poaching locations.
    • Implementing Agency: In India, the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) is responsible for RhODIS genetic analysis under the RhODIS India program.
    • Applications of RhODIS: The system plays a vital role in linking seized rhino horns to poaching incidents, providing admissible forensic evidence in court cases, tracking illegal wildlife trade routes and criminal networks, and monitoring genetic diversity and population health over time.

    About One-Horned Rhinoceros:

    • Overview: The Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) is a herbivorous megafauna species native to the Indian subcontinent.
    • Distinctive Features: It is also called the Indian rhinoceros and is characterized by its single black horn and thick, armor-like skin.
    • Conservation Status: It is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, in Appendix I of CITES, and under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (India).
    • Major Habitats in India: Its primary habitats include Kaziranga, Pobitora, Manas, and Orang National Parks in Assam; Jaldapara and Gorumara National Parks in West Bengal; and the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve in Uttar Pradesh.
    • Population Growth: Its has increased from around 1,500 in the 1980s to over 4,000 in 2024, with Assam alone holding 80% of the global population. Kaziranga National Park houses the largest population, with 2,613 rhinos as per 2022 data.
    • Primary Threats: Major threats include poaching for horns driven by illegal wildlife trade and false beliefs about medicinal value, as well as habitat degradation due to floods, encroachment, and climate change.
    • Indian Rhino Vision 2020 (Project Rhino):  It was launched in 2005, aimed to spread the rhino population across seven protected areas.
    [UPSC 2019] Consider the following statements:

    1. Asiatic lion is naturally found In India only.

    2. Double-humped camel is naturally found in India only.

    3. One-horned rhinoceros is naturally found in India only.

    Which of the statements given above is / are correct?

    Options: (a) 1 only*  (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • New butterfly species Zographetus mathewi found in Western Ghats

    Why in the News?

    A team of Indian conservationists has identified a new butterfly species, Zographetus mathewi, in the biologically rich Western Ghats.

    About Zographetus mathewi

    • Overview: Zographetus mathewi is a newly identified species of skipper butterfly.
    • Taxonomic Classification: It belongs to the family Hesperiidae and the genus Zographetus Watson, 1893.
    • Distribution: This species is endemic to the low-elevation forests of Kerala, Western Ghats.
    • Genus: It is the 15th species in the Zographetus genus and the 5th recorded in India.
    • Publication and Naming: Published in the journal Entomon, the butterfly was named in honour of George Mathew, a noted Indian entomologist.

    Key Features of Zographetus mathewi

    • Similarity with Other Species: It closely resembles Zographetus ogygia but differs in wing venation patterns and genitalia structure in both male and female butterflies.
    • Species Group Traits: It belongs to the Zographetus satwa species-group, which is known for swollen forewing veins in males as a secondary sexual trait, a distinct basal hair tuft on the underside of the forewing, and yellow-ochre scaling on the hindwing underside.
    [UPSC 2025] Regarding Peacock tarantula (Gooty tarantula), consider the following statements :

    I. It is an omnivorous crustacean.

    II. Its natural habitat in India is only limited to some forest areas.

    III. In its natural habitat, it is an arboreal species.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    Options: (a) I only   (b) I and III   (c) II only  (d) II and III*