Subject: Environment

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

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.
Cost-Effective: Compared to large-scale planting, this method is less resource-intensive
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.

July 26, 2025

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:

Unique or rare wetland type.
Habitat for endangered, vulnerable, or endemic species.
Crucial for migratory waterbirds.
High ecological, hydrological, or biodiversity value.
Supports ecosystem services (e.g., flood control, water purification).
Provides cultural or spiritual value.
Serves sustainable community livelihoods.
Holds scientific or educational importance.
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

July 26, 2025

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.

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*

July 26, 2025

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

July 25, 2025

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

July 24, 2025

[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

July 19, 2025

[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.

July 16, 2025

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

July 16, 2025

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*

July 16, 2025

Smoke and Sulphur: On sulphur dioxide emissions, public health

Why in the News?

Recently the Environment Ministry of India has recently exempted most coal-fired power plants from installing Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) systems, reversing its 2015 mandate. This move weakens efforts to control sulphur dioxide (SO₂) emissions, a harmful air pollutant.

What is Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) system?

Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) systems are air pollution control technologies used in thermal power plants to remove sulphur dioxide (SO₂) from flue gases (the exhaust emitted when coal or oil is burned).

Why has FGD installation been exempted for most coal plants?

Low Sulphur Content in Indian Coal: Indian coal contains naturally low sulphur, reducing the urgency to control SO₂ emissions. Eg: The expert committee stated that SO₂ levels near plants using Indian coal were already below permissible limits.
High Installation and Operational Costs: Installing FGD systems is capital-intensive and can increase electricity tariffs. Eg: Many private power producers cited cost constraints as a barrier to following the 2015 FGD mandate.
Limited Vendor Capacity in India: There is a shortage of FGD equipment suppliers, causing delays in implementation. Eg: From 2015–2024, only 8% of 600 units installed FGDs, primarily by NTPC (a public sector company).
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic: The pandemic caused supply chain disruptions and delayed project execution timelines. Eg: The Environment Ministry cited COVID-related delays for missing 2024 FGD deadlines.
Scientific Reassessment of SO₂ Effects: New studies suggest sulphates formed from SO₂ may have a climate-cooling effect, weakening the urgency of emission controls. Eg: The Power Ministry argued that reducing sulphates could actually worsen global warming.

How does SO₂ affect health and air quality?

Respiratory Health Impacts: Sulphur dioxide (SO₂) irritates the respiratory tract, causing issues such as asthma, bronchitis, and shortness of breath, especially among vulnerable populations like children and the elderly. In Delhi, spikes in SO₂ levels have been linked to increased hospital visits for respiratory ailments during winter months.
Formation of Particulate Matter (PM2.5): SO₂ reacts in the atmosphere to form sulphate aerosols, a major component of PM2.5, which penetrates deep into lungs and contributes to air pollution. Industrial belts like Singrauli in Madhya Pradesh record high levels of particulate pollution, partly due to emissions from coal-fired plants.
Reduced Visibility and Environmental Damage: SO₂ contributes to acid rain and haze, damaging crops, soil, and water sources, and reducing visibility. Areas near thermal power plants, such as in Chhattisgarh, have reported acidic soil degradation, affecting agriculture.

What does selective FGD enforcement indicate about regulation?

Location-Based Policy Inconsistency: The decision to mandate FGD installation only near NCR and urban hotspots suggests that environmental regulations are being applied selectively, not based on uniform scientific standards, but geographical and political considerations.
Weak Enforcement and Shifting Priorities: Exempting most coal plants despite earlier commitments reflects regulatory dilution, raising concerns about policy backtracking and the government’s willingness to compromise on environmental health in favor of industrial or economic concerns.
Undermining Scientific Credibility and Public Trust: Ignoring the original mandate without robust public debate weakens trust in evidence-based regulation, indicating that scientific advisories are not consistently followed in policy implementation.

Why is public debate vital before policy shifts on pollution?

Ensures Transparency and Accountability: Open public debate creates transparency, compelling policymakers to justify decisions and remain accountable to citizens.
Strengthens Scientific Rigor: Debate enables scientific scrutiny of environmental claims, ensuring that policy changes are based on credible evidenceand expert consultation.
Safeguards Public Health and Democratic Rights: Inclusive discussions protect public health and uphold democratic values by allowing citizens to voice concerns over pollution-related policies.

Why is public debate vital before policy shifts on pollution?

Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) Scheme: Implemented by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), this market-based mechanism promotes energy efficiency in industries, indirectly reducing emissions.
National Clean Air Programme (NCAP): Launched in 2019, it aims for a 20–30% reduction in PM2.5 and PM10 levels by 2024 (now extended), and addresses urban air pollution through sector-specific mitigation plans.
Retrofitting of Plants: Plants identified in pollution hotspots, those near NCR or million-plus cities, are required to install FGD by 2028, as per latest Environment Ministry directive.
Promotion of Renewable Energy and Ujjwala Yojana: Transition towards cleaner energy sources (solar, wind) and LPG distribution under Ujjwala Yojana has reduced reliance on coal and biomass, indirectly curbing SO₂ emissions.

Way forward:

Revise FGD Policy Through Transparent Public Consultation: Any change in environmental regulation, especially exemptions, must involve scientific review, public debate, and stakeholder consultations to ensure credibility and protect public health.
Strengthen Pollution Monitoring and Accountability: Enhance the real-time SO₂ monitoring network, enforce uniform emission standards, and link compliance with financial or operational incentives to promote cleaner technologies across all power plants.

Mains PYQ:

[UPSC 2024] Industrial pollution of river water is a significant environmental issue in India. Discuss the various mitigation measures to deal with this problem and also the government’s initiatives in this regard.

Linkage: The article talks about the Environment Ministry’s decision to exempt most coal-fired plants from mandatory Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) systems, which is a significant government initiative related to an environmental issue (sulphur dioxide emissions) and its mitigation. This is a direct and comprehensive question about environmental issues and the government’s initiatives and mitigation measures.

July 14, 2025