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Subject: Environment

  • Why is Europe warming faster?

    Why in the News?

    The 2024 European State of the Climate Report shows Europe warming nearly twice as fast as the global average, with significant regional variations due to human-driven climate change.

    European State of the Climate Report: Key Highlights  

    • 2024 as the Warmest Year: The year 2024 was recorded as the warmest year ever, not just globally but for Europe as well, with Eastern Europe experiencing particularly high temperatures.
    • East-West Contrast: While Eastern Europe enjoyed sunny and warm conditions, Western Europe was cloudier and wetter, highlighting the regional differences in climate impact.
    • Southeastern Europe Heatwave: Countries like Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Kosovo, and Serbia faced their longest heatwave on record, adding to the already extreme conditions.

    Reasons Behind Europe’s Higher Rate of Warming:

    • Proximity to the Arctic Region: A large part of Europe lies within the Arctic region, where warming is three to four times faster than the global average, driving higher temperatures in Europe.
    • Albedo Effect: The melting of Arctic ice exposes darker surfaces (land and water) that absorb more solar radiation, accelerating warming in Europe.
    • Reduction in Aerosols: Decreasing aerosol emissions in Europe allow more solar radiation to reach the Earth’s surface, contributing to faster warming.
    • Land-Based Warming: Europe’s land areas warm faster than oceans, triggering extreme weather like heatwaves, heavy rainfall, and flooding.
    • Global Climate Dynamics: Europe’s geographical and atmospheric conditions make it more susceptible to climate change effects compared to other regions.
    [UPSC 2014] The scientific view is that the increase in global temperature should not exceed 2 0 C above pre-industrial level. If the global temperature increases beyond 30 C above the pre-industrial level, what can be its possible impact/impacts on the world?

    1. Terrestrial biosphere tends toward a net carbon source.

    2. Widespread coral mortality will occur.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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

     

  • [21st April 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Tackle heatwaves with short- and long-term measures

    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: Heatwaves are increasingly recognized as severe weather events and fall under the purview of disaster management. This question directly asks about disaster resilience and its framework, which is crucial for tackling heatwaves. Building resilience to heatwaves involves both short-term preparedness (early warning systems, public awareness) and long-term adaptation (infrastructure changes, social safety nets) as highlighted in the article. The Sendai Framework’s targets are also relevant for setting goals in reducing heatwave-related mortality and morbidity.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  According to the World Meteorological Organization, 2024 was the hottest year ever recorded, with global temperatures about 1.55°C higher than in pre-industrial times. In India, December 2022 was the hottest December since temperature records began in 1901. Overall, India has seen more heatwaves in the last 20 years compared to the 20 years before that.

    Today’s editorial talks about the current heatwave situation and its effects. This topic is useful for GS Paper 3 in the UPSC Mains exam.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    On March 15, some states and cities in India faced their first severe heatwave of 2025 — about 20 days earlier than the first severe heatwave in 2024.

    What are the key health and socio-economic effects of heatwaves in India?

    • Health Impacts (Heat Stress): Heatwaves in India lead to heat stress, which occurs when the outside temperature approaches the body’s normal temperature of 37°C. This hampers the body’s ability to release internal heat, leading to a range of health problems including kidney failure, liver damage, and brain-related issues, sometimes resulting in death. Eg, the 2015 heatwave in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana caused over 2,000 deaths due to extreme temperatures.
    • Impact on Agriculture and Livestock: Heatwaves negatively affect the farming sector, reducing crop yields and livestock production due to heat stress. Eg, the 2020 heatwaves led to significant crop damage, particularly in areas like Punjab and Haryana, where farmers saw a drop in wheat and paddy production, impacting food security.
    • Socio-Economic Consequences: Heatwaves result in loss of productivity, particularly in labor-intensive sectors like agriculture, construction, and outdoor work. This causes economic losses as workers lose work hours, and agricultural outputs decline. Eg, in 2023, heat stress led to an estimated loss of 6% of work hours in India, contributing to reduced personal incomes and affecting national GDP.

    Why is heat stress an equity issue for vulnerable groups?

    • Disproportionate Impact on the Poor: Vulnerable groups such as the poor face the worst effects of heat stress due to limited access to resources like cooling systems, healthcare, and safe working conditions. Eg, in urban slums with poor infrastructure, people are exposed to higher temperatures both indoors and outdoors, leading to greater health risks compared to wealthier populations with air-conditioned homes.
    • Gendered Impact: Women, especially in rural and lower-income areas, are more affected by heat stress due to cultural norms that restrict their mobility and tasks, such as working in kitchens or wearing heavy clothing. Eg, women in rural India may have to work in the kitchen during peak heat hours, further increasing their risk of heat-related illnesses.
    • Impact on Migrant Workers and Informal Sector Employees: Migrants and workers in the informal sector often lack access to benefits such as paid leave, healthcare, or workplace protections, making them more vulnerable to heat stress. Eg, construction workers in cities like Delhi and Mumbai suffer from heat-related illnesses as they work outdoors without proper protection, and they cannot afford to miss work, leading to further health deterioration.

    When did India begin implementing Heat Action Plans (HAPs), and how have they evolved over the years?

    • Initial Implementation in 2013: India began implementing Heat Action Plans (HAPs) in 2013 when Ahmedabad, Gujarat, became the first city in Asia to develop a municipal Heat Action Plan. The plan focused on early heatwave predictions, public awareness, and health system preparedness. Eg, Ahmedabad’s HAP helped reduce heat-related mortality by alerting vulnerable communities and healthcare systems ahead of heatwaves.
    • Expansion to Other Cities (2014-2018): After the success in Ahmedabad, other cities and states began developing their own heat action plans. By 2018, over 20 Indian cities and states had implemented their HAPs, adapting them based on local vulnerabilities. Eg, cities like Chennai and Hyderabad incorporated heat action strategies, including cooling shelters and awareness campaigns.
    • National Coordination (2018): In 2018, the National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH) was introduced to provide a unified approach, coordinating heat advisories and other health-related information across the country. Eg, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) began issuing nationwide heatwave alerts to help states and cities prepare for extreme heat events.
    • Focus on Long-Term Measures (2020-Present): Recent iterations of HAPs have emphasized long-term preventive measures, such as urban greening, reflective rooftops, and improved building materials to reduce heat retention. Eg, several cities, like Delhi, are promoting cool roof policies, encouraging the use of heat-reflective materials on buildings to reduce urban heat islands.

    How can India improve the effectiveness and implementation of Heat Action Plans at the state and city levels?

    • Tailor Plans Based on Local Vulnerability: India can improve HAP effectiveness by ensuring that each state and city develops plans based on specific local vulnerabilities such as geography, socio-economic factors, and infrastructure. Eg, coastal cities like Mumbai may need strategies focusing on humidity and high temperatures, while inland cities like Jaipur might need to focus more on extreme heat and dry conditions.
    • Incorporate Real-Time Data and Predictive Technology: HAPs can be enhanced by using real-time data on temperature, humidity, and wind speed to improve forecasting accuracy and timely alerts. Eg, the use of satellite data and ground-based sensors in cities like Pune has allowed for more accurate predictions of heat stress, enabling better preparedness and quicker responses during heatwaves.
    • Strengthen Collaboration Between Stakeholders: Successful implementation of HAPs requires coordination between government bodies, local authorities, public health institutions, NGOs, and community organizations. Eg, in Ahmedabad, the city’s HAP involved collaborations between municipal authorities, public health officials, and non-governmental organizations, which significantly contributed to the reduction in heat-related deaths.
    • Focus on Long-Term Urban Planning and Infrastructure: HAPs should integrate long-term urban development strategies that mitigate heat in the built environment, such as increasing green spaces, promoting cool roofs, and using reflective materials for buildings. Eg, Chennai’s initiative to plant more trees and create shaded public spaces has helped reduce heat in urban areas, making the city more resilient to heatwaves.
    • Ensure Inclusivity and Equity in Response Measures: HAPs should ensure that vulnerable populations such as informal sector workers, elderly, and marginalized communities are given special attention during heatwaves. Eg, Delhi’s HAP has included mobile cooling units and shelters for the homeless, along with providing water points and health services in areas with high concentrations of migrant workers and low-income groups.

    What is the current situation regarding the occurrence of heat waves in India?

    • Increased Frequency of Heatwave Days: The number of heatwave days in India has risen over the past decade. In 2022, approximately 121 heatwave days were recorded across the country, a decrease from the previous year but still indicative of a growing trend.
    • Record-Breaking Temperatures: In May 2024, northern India experienced severe heatwaves, with temperatures reaching up to 49.1°C in New Delhi. Over 37 cities reported temperatures exceeding 45°C, leading to at least 56 confirmed deaths and 25,000 suspected cases of heatstroke.
    • Projections of Future Heatwave Intensification: Future projections indicate a significant increase in heatwave frequency due to climate change. Under the RCP 4.5 scenario, the frequency of heatwaves in India is expected to increase by a factor of 4 to 7 in the mid-term and by 5 to 10 times in the long-term future.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Policy Integration and Local Capacities: Integrate Heat Action Plans into urban planning and disaster management policies, while building capacity at local levels for climate-resilient infrastructure and real-time response systems.
    • Targeted Support for Vulnerable Groups: Prioritize inclusive measures such as community cooling centers, mobile health units, and social safety nets to protect informal workers, elderly, and low-income populations from heat-related risks.

  • Davis Strait Proto-Microcontinent

    Why in the News?

    A hidden landmass, called the Davis Strait proto-microcontinent, has been discovered beneath the icy waters between Canada’s Baffin Island and Greenland.

    About the Davis Strait Proto-Microcontinent:

    • The Davis Strait Proto-Microcontinent is a hypothesised landmass located in the Davis Strait, believed to have existed during the Paleozoic era.
    • It is composed of 19–24 km thick thinned continental crust, surrounded by two narrow bands of 15–17 km thick continental crust.
    • It is thought to have broken apart due to tectonic movements.
    • Geological evidence, including similarities in rock formations and tectonic features found in Greenland and parts of the Canadian Arctic, supports the idea of this ancient landmass.
    • While its exact nature and extent remain debated, the proto-microcontinent is crucial for understanding the tectonic processes that shaped the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding regions.

    About Davis Strait:

    • The Davis Strait is a large body of water located between southeastern Baffin Island (Canada) and southwestern Greenland, serving as part of the Northwest Passage.
    • It separates the Baffin Bay (to the north) from the Labrador Sea (to the south), and it connects the Atlantic Ocean and Arctic Ocean through the Canadian Arctic Archipelago.
    • It is an important maritime route for shipping and trade.
    • Named after John Davis, the English explorer who navigated the area in the late 16th century, the Davis Strait plays a significant role in the tectonic evolution of the Arctic region.
    [UPSC 2013] Consider the following:

    (1). Electromagnetic radiation (2). Geothermal energy (3). Gravitational force (4). Plate movements (5). Rotation of the earth (6). Revolution of the earth

    Which of the above are responsible for bringing dynamic changes on the surface of the earth?

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

     

  • [19th April 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Steering the decarbonisation of India’s logistics sector

     

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2013] Write a note on India’s green energy corridor to alleviate the problem of conventional energy.

    Linkage: Decarbonising the logistics sector necessitates a shift away from conventional energy sources. The development of a green energy corridor, as mentioned in this PYQ, is essential for supplying the renewable energy needed to power various aspects of logistics, such as electric trucks and warehouses

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  Viksit Bharat is a commitment to a stronger, self-reliant India by 2047, focusing on inclusive development. Achieving this requires a large, efficient, and future-ready logistics sector. While infrastructure and accessibility are key, prioritizing the environment is crucial. India’s carbon-heavy logistics must transform to meet net-zero emissions by 2070, reducing transportation, warehousing, and supply chain emissions for a sustainable future.

    Today’s editorial talks about India’s logistics sector, which creates a significant amount of carbon pollution. This topic is relevant for GS Paper 3 in the mains exam.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    India’s logistics sector, which produces a lot of carbon pollution, needs to change and become more eco-friendly.

    What role does logistics play in achieving Viksit Bharat 2047?

    • Enabler of Inclusive Development: Efficient logistics ensures that goods and services reach every corner of the country, promoting equitable growth across regions. Eg: Improved last-mile connectivity in remote areas boosts rural entrepreneurship and market access for farmers.
    • Driver of Economic Competitiveness: A streamlined logistics sector reduces costs and delays, enhancing India’s global trade competitiveness. Eg: The PM Gati Shakti initiative integrates infrastructure planning to speed up cargo movement and reduce logistics costs.
    • Catalyst for Sustainability and Resilience: Greener logistics support India’s net-zero targets and build climate-resilient infrastructure. Eg: Electrification of highways and promotion of rail freight reduce emissions from the transport sector.

    Why is urgent decarbonisation needed in road freight and warehousing?

    • High Share in Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Road freight alone contributes over 88% of transport emissions, with trucks accounting for 38% of CO₂ emissions (IEA 2023). Eg: A single heavy-duty diesel truck emits over 1,000 grams of CO₂ per km — multiplied across millions of trucks, this leads to massive environmental impact.
    • Dependence on Fossil Fuels: Road transport is highly dependent on oil combustion, making it one of the most carbon-intensive sectors. Warehouses often rely on non-renewable power sources like diesel generators for energy and refrigeration. Eg: India’s freight trucks mostly use diesel — a key factor in air pollution and rising import bills for crude oil.
    • Growing Demand Increases Future Emissions: With freight and warehousing demand expected to grow rapidly by 2030, emissions will rise unless green alternatives are adopted. Eg: Government plans to triple cargo movement on inland waterways and expand warehousing, which without clean tech would add significantly to GHG levels.
    • Missed Economic Opportunities without Green Shift: Decarbonisation can lead to cost savings, energy efficiency, and long-term competitiveness. Delay increases operational costs and reduces global trade alignment. Eg: Green warehouses with solar rooftops can reduce electricity costs by 20–30% and earn carbon credits.
    • Alignment with Net Zero and Global Climate Commitments: India has committed to Net Zero by 2070. Without decarbonising logistics, achieving this goal will be impossible. Eg: Transitioning to electric trucks and LNG-powered vessels supports global targets like the Paris Agreement and IMO’s shipping emission cuts.

    How can China and the U.S. guide India’s green freight transition?

    • Rail Freight as a Cleaner Alternative: China and the U.S. have shifted significant portions of freight transport from road to rail, which is more energy-efficient and low-carbon. Eg: China has heavily invested in rail infrastructure, making rail freight nearly 50% of its total freight, significantly reducing emissions compared to road transport.
    • Adoption of Cleaner Fuels and Technologies: Both countries have embraced electric rail systems and alternative fuels for freight, which India can adopt to decarbonise its logistics sector. Eg: The U.S. has invested in electrified rail corridors, and China has introduced LNG-powered freight trains, both of which reduce dependency on diesel and curb emissions.
    • Policy Support and Infrastructure Investment: China and the U.S. have implemented policy frameworks that incentivise green freight practices, such as tax breaks, green subsidies, and investment in sustainable infrastructure. Eg: China’s Green Freight initiative includes subsidies for green vehicles, while the U.S. offers funding for clean freight technology under programs like the Clean Diesel Program.

    Which steps has India taken to electrify freight and green maritime transport?

    • Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC): Spanning 1,506 km, the WDFC connects Delhi to Mumbai, facilitating high-speed, high-capacity freight movement. This electrified corridor supports double-stack container trains, enhancing efficiency and reducing emissions.
    • Subsidies for Electric Freight Vehicles: In 2024, India approved ₹5 billion to incentivise the adoption of electric trucks, aiming to replace polluting diesel vehicles. This initiative is part of a broader ₹109 billion scheme to promote electric vehicles across various sectors.
    • Investment in Green Maritime Infrastructure: India plans to allocate ₹25,000 crore towards developing green ports and shipping infrastructure. This includes building green hydrogen hubs and manufacturing eco-friendly vessels, supporting the transition to sustainable maritime practices.
    • Collaboration with Singapore: India is exploring the creation of a Green Digital Shipping Corridor with Singapore, aiming to link international ports and marine industries. This initiative focuses on reducing emissions and enhancing digital integration in maritime trade.
    • Harit Sagar Initiative: The ‘Harit Sagar Green Port Guidelines’ aim to integrate renewable energy into port operations, promote the use of green fuels, and modernise fleets. These guidelines are part of India’s strategy to achieve net-zero emissions in the maritime sector by 2070.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Green Infrastructure and Technology Adoption: India should accelerate investments in green technologies, such as electric trucks, renewable energy-powered warehouses, and cleaner maritime fuels, alongside expanding rail freight networks to further reduce carbon emissions.
    • Strengthen Policy Frameworks and International Collaborations: Strengthening government policies to incentivize sustainable logistics practices and fostering international partnerships, such as with Singapore for green shipping corridors, can help ensure the successful transition to a low-carbon logistics sector.

     

  • India to Headquarter the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) 

    Why in the News?

    India has signed a Headquarters Agreement with the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), officially establishing its headquarters in India.

    About International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA):

    • IBCA is a multi-country, multi-agency group of 96 big cat range and non-range countries focused on conserving 7 big cats and their habitats.
    • It was proposed by PM Modi in 2019, officially launched in April 2023 for Project Tiger’s 50th anniversary.
    • It aims to protect and conserve Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma; restore habitats and reduce human-wildlife conflict.
    • Key activities include- Advocacy, knowledge sharing, eco-tourism promotion, and resource mobilization for big cat conservation.
    • Currently, India, Nicaragua, Eswatini, and Somalia are members. Though membership is open to 96 range countries with big cat habitats.
    • Governance: Includes a General Assembly, elected Council, and Secretariat with a Secretary-General.
    • India’s Role:
      • India is home to 5 (tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, and cheetah) of the 7 big cats and 70% of the world’s tiger population, playing a leading role in global wildlife protection.
      • ₹150 crore from the Indian government (2023-2028) with additional contributions from global partners.
    [UPSC 2024] Consider the following statements:

    1. Lions do not have a particular breeding season.

    2. Unlike most other big cats, cheetahs do not roar.

    3. Unlike male lions, male leopards do not proclaim their territory by scent marking.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

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

     

  • Particulate Matter Emission Trading Scheme in Gujarat

    Why in the News?

    A new study highlights the success of Surat’s Particulate Matter Emission Trading Scheme (PM-ETS), the world’s first market-based system for trading particulate emissions.

    The scheme has reduced pollution by 20-30%, providing insights into its potential to improve air quality in industrial areas.

    About Particulate Matter Emission Trading Scheme in Gujarat:

    • This PM ETS was launched in Surat, Gujarat in 2019.
    • It is the world’s first pilot project targeting particulate pollution using a market-based emissions trading system.
    • It is India’s first emissions trading initiative for any pollutant.
    • The scheme aims to reduce emissions from industries using solid (coal, lignite) and liquid fuels (diesel) by controlling fine particulate matter (PM).
    • How It Works?
      • Cap-and-Trade: Regulators set a cap on total emissions, and industries are issued permits (1 kg of particulate matter per permit).
      • Permit Allocation: 80% of permits are given for free; 20% are sold via auctions.
      • Market Trading: Permits can be bought or sold to meet emission targets. A ceiling price (Rs 100/kg) and floor price (Rs 5/kg) are set.
      • Compliance: Non-compliant industries face fines double the ceiling price for each excess emission.

    Successes of PM-ETS:

    • Reduction in Emissions: Participating plants cut emissions by 20-30% compared to traditional methods.
    • Improved Compliance: 99% compliance in participating plants.
    • Cost-Effective: The system allowed industries to choose the most cost-effective methods for compliance.

    Limitations of PM-ETS:

    • Over-reliance on Free Permits: Smaller plants may struggle as the number of free permits decreases.
    • Supply Chain Limitations: Tightened caps could increase costs for industries not reducing emissions.
    • Market Manipulation: Concerns over unfair permit trading.
    • Geographical Constraints: Limited to Surat, restricting broader impact.
    [UPSC 2011] Regarding “carbon credits’’, which one of the following statements is not correct?

    (a) The carbon credit system was ratified in conjunction with the Kyoto protocol.

    (b) Carbon credits are awarded to countries or groups that have reduced greenhouse gases below their emission quota.

    (c) The goal of the carbon credit system is to limit the increase of carbon dioxide emission.

    (d) Carbon credits are traded at a price fixed from time to time by the United Nations environment programs. *

     

  • What is Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD)?

    Why in the News?

    The Union Environment Ministry’s 2015 policy mandating the installation of Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) equipment in all of India’s 537 coal-fired plants has been scrutinised by a recent study commissioned by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser.

    Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD)

    About Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) in Power Plants

    • FGD is used to remove sulfur dioxide (SO₂) from flue gases in coal-fired power plants.
    • The process involves passing exhaust gases through a scrubbing system using absorbents like ammonia, sodium sulfite, or limestone.
    • Methods:
      • Wet Limestone Scrubbing: Gases pass through a scrubber tower with a slurry of water and limestone.
      • Dry Sorbent Injection: Uses a dry alkaline agent to neutralize SO₂.
      • Sea Water-Based Systems: Utilizes seawater’s natural alkalinity to absorb SO₂.
    • FGD can remove up to 95% of sulfur dioxide, reducing SO₂ emissions significantly.
    • Reduces sulfur emissions, major contributors to acid rain and air pollution.
    • FGD Gypsum, a byproduct, can be used in industries like cement manufacturing.

    Recent Study on FGD in Power Plants

    • A study by NIAS critiques India’s FGD policy, recommending limited FGD installations for plants using imported or high-sulfur coal.
    • 92% of coal in Indian plants has low sulfur content (0.3%-0.5%), meaning FGD may not significantly improve local air quality.
    • Widespread FGD installation could increase power and water consumption, and result in 69 million tonnes of additional CO₂ emissions by 2030.
    • Removing SO₂ (cooling agent) while increasing CO₂ emissions may accelerate climate change.
    • Recommendations: Installing electrostatic precipitators (₹25 lakh per MW) can reduce 99% of particulate matter (PM), offering a more cost-effective and impactful solution.
    [UPSC 2024] According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which one of the following is the largest source of sulphur dioxide emissions?

    (a) Locomotives using fossil fuels

    (b) Ships using fossil fuels

    (c) Extraction of metals from ores

    (d) Power plants using fossil fuels*

     

  • New frog species ‘Leptobrachium aryatium’ discovered in Assam

    Why in the News?

    A 21-year-long study has resulted in the discovery of a new frog species, Leptobrachium aryatium, named after Arya Vidyapeeth College in Assam.

    About the frog ‘Leptobrachium aryatium’

    • Leptobrachium aryatium, a newly discovered species of frog, was found in the Garbhanga Reserve Forest, located on the southwestern edge of Guwahati, Assam, near the Meghalaya border.
    • The species was identified through a re-analysis of past research and new studies on the Leptobrachium genus.
    • Key Features:
      • Distinctive Eyes: The frog has fiery orange-and-black eyes, setting it apart from other species in the genus.
      • Reticulated Throat Pattern: A unique reticulated pattern on its throat adds to its distinct appearance.
      • Smooth, Rhythmic Call: Emits a smooth, rhythmic call at dusk, a feature unique to this species in the genus.
      • Molecular and Morphological Distinctiveness: DNA analysis and physical studies confirmed it as a new species, distinguished by its unique call and appearance.
    [UPSC 2016] Recently, our scientists have discovered a new and distinct species of banana plant which attains a height of about 11 metres and has orange-coloured fruit pulp. In which part of India has it been discovered?

    (a) Andaman Islands* (b) Anaimalai Forests (c) Maikala Hills (d) Tropical rain forests of northeast

     

  • Delamination of the Indian Plate

    Why in the News?

    Recent studies reveal that the Indian Plate is splitting into two, with the lower part detaching and sinking into the Earth’s mantle, a process called delamination, as published by the American Geophysical Union.

    About Delamination:

    • Delamination in tectonic plates refers to the process where the lower part of a continental plate, including the lower crust and/or lithospheric mantle, splits and sinks into the Asthenosphere.
    • This process is driven by density differences and can lead to rapid uplift, changes in stress regimes, and altered magmatism.
    • It can occur in various tectonic settings, including compressional zones, subduction zones, and intraplate regions. 
    • The denser lower part of the plate, including the lower crust and/or lithospheric mantle, is less buoyant than the less dense asthenosphere, leading to sinking.
    • High temperatures can also weaken the lithosphere and facilitate delamination.

    Delamination of the Indian Plate

    Indian Plate and Its Splitting:

    • The Indian Plate has been colliding with the Eurasian Plate for about 60 million years, causing the formation of the Himalayas and influencing regional seismic activity.
    • It is shifting northward at a rate of approximately 5 cm per year..
    • The lower, denser part of the Indian Plate is detaching and sinking into the Earth’s mantle.
    • This may lead to increased seismic activity due to shifts in tectonic stress.
    • In regions like the Himalayan collision zone, delamination results in fractures that increase stress in the Earth’s crust, raising the likelihood of seismic events.
    [UPSC 2004] Consider the following geological phenomena:

    1. Development of a fault 2. Movement along a fault 3. Impact produced by a volcanic eruption 4. Folding of rocks Which of the above cause earthquakes?

    Options:

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

     

  • How govern-mentality exacerbates the problem of farmers’ stubble burning

    Why in the News?

    A new study by researchers Sujit Raghunathrao Jagadale and Javed M. Shaikh from IIM Amritsar looks at the issue of stubble burning by examining how government policies and market systems are failing to manage the problem effectively.

    Why do farmers continue stubble burning despite its harm to air quality?

    • Cost-Effective Method: Stubble burning is the cheapest way for farmers to clear their fields after harvesting. Eg: Farmers burn stubble to quickly prepare their land for the next crop, especially for wheat, without incurring high labor or machinery costs.
    • Lack of Affordable Alternatives: There are limited affordable and efficient alternatives to stubble burning. Eg: Farmers often do not have access to technology or subsidies for machines that can manage stubble, such as Happy Seeder or bio-decomposers.
    • Government’s Focus on High-Yield Crops: The Minimum Support Price (MSP) policy incentivizes the cultivation of wheat and rice, leading to monocropping. Eg: Farmers are encouraged to grow rice continuously, which results in an abundance of stubble that needs to be disposed of quickly.
    • Debt and Economic Pressure: Many farmers face financial pressures, including debt and low returns on their crops, which makes burning stubble a way to save time and money. Eg: Farmers often sell their crops to middlemen at low prices, leaving them with insufficient income to invest in sustainable farming practices.
    • Lack of Strong Enforcement or Support: Although stubble burning is penalized, enforcement of laws is weak, and farmers often feel the state does not provide adequate support for eco-friendly methods. Eg: Despite penalties, farmers feel little pressure to change practices when there is insufficient governmental support or infrastructure for alternatives.

    How does India’s MSP policy influence stubble burning?

    • Encourages Monocropping: The MSP policy promotes the cultivation of high-yield crops like rice and wheat, leading to monocropping, which results in a large amount of stubble that must be cleared. Eg: Farmers in Punjab often grow rice followed by wheat, creating a cycle where large quantities of rice stubble need to be burned to prepare the soil for the next crop.
    • Limits Crop Diversification: The MSP system prioritizes wheat and rice over other crops, making it economically unfeasible for farmers to switch to more sustainable practices or crops that would reduce stubble burning. Eg: Despite the potential for growing other crops, farmers focus on rice and wheat to benefit from MSP, leaving them with stubble that they have no economically viable option to manage.
    • Financial Constraints: The MSP rates for crops like rice and wheat have remained stagnant, making it harder for farmers to invest in alternatives to stubble burning, such as machinery or composting. Eg: With wheat MSP seeing only minimal increases, farmers struggle to cover costs for labor and inputs, leading them to resort to stubble burning as the most cost-effective option to clear fields.

    What has the government done in this situation?

    • Implemented Subsidies for Machinery: The government has provided subsidies for the purchase of machinery like the Happy Seeder to help farmers manage stubble without burning. Eg: The Punjab government has distributed equipment like straw management machines under the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization to reduce stubble burning.
    • Awareness Campaigns: The government has conducted awareness programs to educate farmers about the harmful effects of stubble burning and encourage them to adopt alternative practices. Eg: The Ministry of Agriculture and local bodies in states like Punjab and Haryana have launched campaigns to raise awareness about the environmental and health risks of stubble burning.
    • Legal Measures and Penalties: Various state governments, including Punjab, have imposed fines and penalties on farmers found burning stubble, aiming to deter the practice. Eg: The Punjab government introduced a fine for stubble burning, with penalties reaching up to Rs 2,500 for each violation, although enforcement remains challenging.

    Way forward: 

    • Promote Crop Diversification: Encourage farmers to shift from paddy to less water-intensive and non-stubble-generating crops through assured procurement and better MSP for alternative crops. Eg: Incentivize crops like millets and pulses to reduce stubble generation.
    • Strengthen Support and Infrastructure: Scale up access to sustainable stubble management technologies and ensure timely financial and logistic support to small and marginal farmers. Eg: Expand reach of Happy Seeder and bio-decomposer solutions through local cooperatives and custom hiring centers.

    Mains PYQ:

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

    Linkage: Delhi’s severe air pollution, especially at certain times of the year, is caused by a combination of its location in the Indo-Gangetic Plain, nearby states burning crop stubble, and weather conditions that trap pollutants.