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Subject: Environment

  • MoEFCC approves Reconstruction of Teesta Dam despite Safety Concerns

    Why in the News?

    The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has approved the reconstruction of the Teesta-III Dam, which was destroyed by a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in October 2023.

    About Teesta River

    • The Teesta River is a transboundary river flowing through India and Bangladesh.
    • Originates from Tso Lhamo Lake, Sikkim, at 5,330 meters in the Himalayas.
    • Major tributary of the Brahmaputra River (Jamuna in Bangladesh).
    • Vital for irrigation, hydroelectric power, and water supply in Sikkim, West Bengal, and Bangladesh.
    • The Teesta Water Dispute remains unresolved, with Bangladesh seeking an equitable share of water.

    Geographical Features:

    • Length: 414 km (309 km in India, 105 km in Bangladesh).
    • Basin Area: 12,159 sq. km in Sikkim and North Bengal.
    • Originates in North Sikkim → flows through West Bengal → enters Bangladesh before merging with the Brahmaputra River.
    • Passes through major towns like Mangan, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, and Rangpo.
    • Tributaries:
      • Left-bank: Rangit, Relli, Great Rangit.
      • Right-bank: Lachung, Lachen, Talung.
    • It supports Himalayan biodiversity, crucial for tea plantations and terrace farming.

    Conservation Initiatives:

    • National River Conservation Plan (NRCP): Includes efforts to reduce pollution and improve water quality of the Teesta.
    • Teesta Barrage Project (West Bengal): Aimed at irrigation development and hydroelectric power generation in North Bengal.
    • Hydroelectric Projects in Sikkim: Several Teesta Hydropower Projects (Teesta Stage III, IV, V, VI, etc.) have been established to generate renewable energy while ensuring minimum ecological impact.
    • India-Bangladesh Water Sharing Talks: Ongoing diplomatic negotiations to resolve the Teesta water-sharing dispute, ensuring equitable distribution.
    • Catchment Area Treatment (CAT) Plan: Implemented to prevent soil erosion and siltation, protecting river health.
    PYQ:

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

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

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

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

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 3 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Why Greenland’s crystal blue lakes have turned brown?

    Why in the News?

    A new study has revealed that over 7,500 lakes in western Greenland have turned brown, suffered water quality deterioration, and started emitting carbon due to extreme weather events in 2022.

    About Greenland and Its Lakes

    • Greenland, the world’s largest island, is covered by a massive ice sheet that holds nearly 8% of the world’s freshwater.
    • The island is home to thousands of glacial-fed lakes, which are crystal blue due to their pristine water quality and low organic content.
    • These lakes play a crucial role in providing drinking water, supporting biodiversity, and storing atmospheric carbon by acting as natural carbon sinks.

    What are the reasons?

    • Extreme Weather in 2022: Greenland saw record-breaking heatwaves and heavy rainfall instead of the usual snowfall.
    • Permafrost Thawing: Rising temperatures melted permafrost, releasing large amounts of organic carbon, iron, and other minerals into the lakes.
    • Atmospheric Rivers: These long, narrow streams of water vapor in the sky caused intense precipitation, leading to large-scale runoff of organic material and sediments into the lakes.
    • Loss of Light Penetration: Increased sedimentation turned the lakes murky brown, reducing sunlight penetration and affecting phytoplankton, which play a key role in carbon absorption.

    Why this Study is important?

    • The study found that changes in the lakes occurred within months instead of centuries, signaling an unprecedented climate impact.
    • Once natural carbon absorbers, the lakes are now releasing 350% more carbon dioxide, accelerating global warming.
    • The lakes, which supply drinking water, now contain higher levels of organic pollutants, affecting both humans and aquatic ecosystems.
    • Studies suggest atmospheric rivers will become 50–290% more frequent by the end of the century, leading to widespread changes in other freshwater ecosystems worldwide.
    • The study adds to growing evidence that Earth’s natural carbon sinks are failing, posing a major challenge to climate mitigation efforts.

    PYQ:

    [2011] The surface of a lake is frozen in severe winter, but the water at its bottom is still liquid. What is the reason?

    (a) Ice is a bad conductor of heat

    (b) Since the surface of the lake is at the same temperature as the air, no heat is lost

    (c) The density of water is maximum at 4 °C

    (d) None of the statements A, B and C given above is correct.

  • Why meteorologists are comparing Storm Eowyn to a bomb?

    Why in the News?

    Storm Éowyn has hit the British Isles with very strong winds, especially in Ireland and Scotland.

    What are the meteorological characteristics of Storm Eowyn?

    • Explosive Cyclogenesis: Storm Éowyn qualifies as a “bomb cyclone,” with air pressure at its center dropping 50 millibars within 24 hours, significantly exceeding the 24-millibar threshold for explosive cyclogenesis. This rapid deepening is a hallmark of severe winter storms in the region.
    • Wind Speeds: The storm produced wind gusts exceeding 100 mph, with a record gust of 114 mph reported at Mace Head on Ireland’s west coast. The Met Office issued red warnings for widespread gusts of 80-90 mph, particularly affecting Northern Ireland and central and southern Scotland.
    • Jet Stream Influence: A strong jet stream, with winds exceeding 200 mph, played a crucial role in the storm’s development. The temperature contrast between cold air from the eastern US and warmer air over the North Atlantic contributed to this intensity.

    What impacts it had on affected regions and what are the expected consequences?

    • Power Outages and Damage: Nearly one million properties across the British Isles experienced power outages due to downed trees and damaged infrastructure. Restoration efforts are expected to take several days, with some areas potentially facing up to ten days without power.
    • Transport Disruptions: The storm caused significant disruptions to road and rail services, with many routes blocked or cancelled due to hazardous conditions. Emergency services have been deployed to manage the aftermath.
    • Casualties: Tragically, at least one fatality was reported in Ireland when a tree fell on a vehicle due to the high winds. The overall impact of the storm has raised concerns about safety and emergency preparedness in affected regions.

    How does Storm Eowyn fit into broader climate change trends and patterns of extreme weather events?

    • Climate Change Considerations: While Storm Éowyn’s intensity raises questions about climate change’s role in extreme weather events, current research has not conclusively linked specific storm intensities or frequencies to climate change.
      • The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports low confidence in observed trends related to extratropical storms over the last century.
    • Future Storm Patterns: There are indications that future winter storms may become more frequent and clustered, leading to increased overall impacts. Additionally, as global temperatures rise, storms may exhibit more extreme wind speeds and rainfall due to a warmer atmosphere’s capacity to hold more moisture.
    • Potential for Sting Jets: There is speculation that Storm Éowyn may have developed “sting jets,” which can produce localized but extremely destructive winds. While their occurrence is difficult to predict, studies suggest that such phenomena may increase with future cyclones as atmospheric conditions evolve.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthening Infrastructure & Emergency Preparedness – Governments should invest in resilient power grids, reinforced transportation networks, and improved early warning systems to mitigate the impact of extreme storms.
    • Climate Adaptation & Policy Measures – Policymakers should integrate climate resilience into urban planning, enforce stricter building codes, and invest in sustainable land management to reduce vulnerabilities.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Discuss the concept of air mass and explain its role in macro-climatic changes.(UPSC IAS/2016)

  • The Union Budget as a turning point for climate action

    Why in the News?

    Everyone will be watching Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1 as she presents the FY26 Budget, which needs to focus on climate issues and help India reach its Net-Zero goal by 2030.

    How will the proposed climate finance taxonomy influence investment in sustainable projects?

    • Standardization and Clarity: The proposed climate finance taxonomy will standardize definitions of green finance, providing clarity and reducing ambiguity for investors. This will help in distinguishing genuinely sustainable projects from those that are not, thereby building investor confidence.
    A green finance taxonomy is a classification system that defines which activities, investments, or projects are considered “green” or environmentally sustainable.
    • Increased Investment: By standardizing green finance definitions, the taxonomy can attract a significant portion of the ₹162.5 trillion ($2.5 trillion) needed to achieve India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) by 2030. This is crucial for scaling up investments in sustainable projects.
    • Market Readiness: The taxonomy will necessitate the development of institutional and technical infrastructure, including market readiness programs, verification systems, and capacity building of financial institutions. This will create a robust ecosystem for green investments.
    • Differential Tax Treatment: The Budget could introduce differential tax treatment for investments aligned with the taxonomy, making green investments more attractive compared to conventional ones.

    What specific measures are needed to incentivize green investments in the upcoming budget?

    • Expanding PLI Schemes for Solar Module Supply Chain: India’s domestic solar module manufacturing capacity stands at 18-20 GW, while the annual demand is 30-35 GW. Imported solar panels are 65% cheaper than domestically produced ones.
      • So, need to expand the scope of PLI schemes can enhance domestic capacity and reduce dependency on imports.
    • Public-Private Partnerships for Railway Renewable Energy: Indian Railways has 51,000 hectares of land available for renewable energy projects, yet only 142 MW of solar capacity has been installed so far, against a potential of 5 GW. Public-private partnerships can unlock this potential and align with the Railways’ decarbonization goals.
    • Establishing a Climate Action Fund for CBAM Compliance: India’s exports of CBAM-covered products to the EU amount to $8.22 billion annually. MSMEs, which contribute 30% of GDP and 45% of exports, often lack resources for decarbonization. A dedicated Climate Action Fund could support MSMEs in meeting compliance requirements and maintaining competitiveness.
    • Fiscal Allocations for the RESCO Model: Only 6.34 lakh (4.37%) of 1.45 crore registrations under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijlee Yojana have been completed. Additionally, 60% of Indian households find rooftop solar installations unaffordable due to upfront costs.
      • The RESCO model can help by enabling financing solutions to bridge this affordability gap.
    • Tax Deductions and Depreciation Benefits for Circular Economy: India generates 62 million tonnes of waste annually, with only 30% being recycled. Transitioning to a circular economy could contribute ₹40 lakh crore ($624 billion) annually by 2050.
      • Tax incentives and accelerated depreciation benefits can encourage private sector participation in recycling and resource efficiency.

    What are the steps taken by the Government of India? 

    • National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC): Launched in 2008, this comprehensive framework includes eight missions aimed at addressing climate change through renewable energy promotion, enhanced energy efficiency, sustainable habitat development, and more.
      • Key missions include the National Solar Mission and the Green India Mission, which focus on increasing solar energy usage and enhancing forest cover, respectively.
    • Commitment to Renewable Energy: India aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030 and has pledged to reduce total projected carbon emissions by one billion tonnes.
    • Adaptation and Resilience Initiatives: The government has established the National Adaptation Fund on Climate Change (NAFCC) to support projects that enhance resilience against climate impacts.
      • On the other hand, the State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC) aligns with NAPCC objectives, focusing on sector-specific adaptations in agriculture, water management, and biodiversity.

    How can India ensure accountability and transparency in its climate financing efforts? (Way forward)

    • Sovereign Green Bond Framework: Establish a sovereign green bond framework specifically for financing circular economy infrastructure, ensuring that funds are allocated transparently and used for their intended purposes.
    • Verification Systems: Implement robust verification systems to ensure that projects funded through green finance taxonomy are genuinely sustainable and meet the required environmental standards.
    • Capacity Building: Invest in capacity building of financial institutions to effectively implement the climate finance taxonomy, including training programs and technical support.
    • Government Expenditure Classification: Commit to classifying government expenditure according to green criteria, ensuring that public funds are directed towards sustainable projects.
    • Regular Reporting and Audits: Mandate regular reporting and audits of climate-related expenditures and projects to ensure accountability and transparency. This will help in tracking progress and making necessary adjustments to policies and allocations.

    Mains PYQ:

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

  • Earth’s magnetic North Pole is shifting toward Siberia

    Why in the News?

    Earth’s magnetic north pole, a critical point where the planet’s magnetic field lines converge, is in constant motion due to changes in the Earth’s molten core. Currently located in the Arctic Ocean above Canada, the magnetic north pole has been moving towards Siberia at an accelerated pace.

    What is the World Magnetic Model (WMM)?

    • The WMM is the standard model used for navigation, attitude, and heading referencing systems that rely on Earth’s geomagnetic field.
    • It is widely used in civilian applications, including navigation and heading systems, as well as in military operations.
    • The WMM provides accurate data on the Earth’s magnetic field and the location of the magnetic North Pole, combining measurements from ground stations and satellites.
    • Revisions and Updates:
      • A new version is updated every five years to address changes in the magnetic field.
      • The latest version, WMM2025, was released on December 17, 2024, and will remain valid until late 2029.
    • The WMM is jointly developed by the United States’ National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) and the United Kingdom’s Defence Geographic Centre (DGC), with technical support from NCEI and the British Geological Survey (BGS).
    • It serves both civilian and military purposes, ensuring accuracy in navigation systems, GPS applications, and other tools dependent on Earth’s magnetic field.

    Why is the Magnetic North Pole Moving?

    • The magnetic North Pole moves due to the dynamic flow of molten iron and other metals in Earth’s outer core, which generates the planet’s magnetic field.
    • These movements cause shifts in magnetic field lines, leading to the pole’s drift over time.
    • The pole was first identified in Canada in 1831 and has since moved over 400 km toward Russia.
    • Key Observations of Movement:
      • From 1990 to 2000, the pole drifted at a rapid rate of 55 km/year.
      • By 2015, this rate slowed to 35 km/year, but the drift remains unpredictable.
      • Currently, the pole is moving closer to Siberia, reflecting changes in Earth’s core dynamics.
    • Impact of Movement:
      • The drift affects navigation systems, aviation routes, and Earth’s magnetic shielding against harmful solar radiation.
      • Scientists monitor this movement using the WMM to ensure updated predictions and mitigate potential impacts on navigation and environmental protection.

  • Indore and Udaipur earn global recognition for ‘Wetland Conservation’ Efforts

    Why in the News?

    Prime Minister recently commended Indore and Udaipur for earning a spot in the prestigious list of 31 Wetland Accredited Cities (WCA) worldwide under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.

    Key Highlights of Indore and Udaipur

    • Indore:
      • Known as India’s cleanest city and recipient of Smart City 2023 Award.
      • Sirpur Lake, a Ramsar site, supports large water bird congregations and is being developed as a bird sanctuary.
      • Over 200 wetland mitras are actively involved in conservation efforts, particularly protecting the Sarus Crane.
    • Udaipur:
      • Famous for its picturesque lakes, including Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, and Doodh Talai.
      • These wetlands are vital for maintaining the city’s microclimate and providing a buffer against extreme weather events.

    About Wetland City Accreditation (WCA)

    • It was introduced during COP 12 (2015) of the Ramsar Convention to recognize cities that take exceptional steps in wetland conservation and sustainable management.
    • Objective: To promote the conservation and wise use of urban and peri-urban wetlands while fostering socio-economic benefits for local populations.
    • The accreditation is valid for 6 years.

    Criteria for WCA:

    Cities must meet specific standards set by the Ramsar Convention, including:

    • Presence of one or more Ramsar sites or significant wetlands.
    • Implementation of wetland conservation measures and restoration initiatives.
    • Integration of wetlands into land-use planning.
    • Raising public awareness about the importance of wetlands.
    • Establishing local committees with expertise in wetland management.
    • Having strong laws and policies to prevent wetland degradation.

    India’s Efforts in Wetland Conservation

    • India became a Ramsar Convention member in 1982, with 85 Ramsar sites covering 13,58,068 hectares (10% of India’s wetland area).
    • India initially designated 26 Ramsar sites (1982–2013) and added 59 more since 2014, reflecting a growing commitment to wetland preservation.
    • Tamil Nadu leads with 18 Ramsar sites, followed by Uttar Pradesh (10 sites).
    • Global Leadership Wetland Conservation:
      • UK has the highest number of Ramsar sites (175), followed by Mexico (142).
      • Bolivia has the largest area under Ramsar protection (148,000 sq. km).

    Interesting Facts about Indian Wetlands:

    • India’s wetlands cover 1,52,600 sq. km, constituting 4.63% of its geographical area (ISRO data).
    • Gujarat has the largest wetland area, followed by Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.
    • Ramsar Wetlands of International Importance:
      • Examples include Chilika Lake (Odisha), Sundarbans (West Bengal), and Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan).

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] If a wetland of international importance is brought under the ‘Montreux Record’, what does it imply?

    (a) Changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur in the wetland as a result of human interference.
    (b) The country in which the wetland is located should enact a law to prohibit any human activity within five kilometres from the edge of the wetland.
    (c) The survival of the wetland depends on the cultural practices and traditions of certain communities living in its vicinity and therefore the cultural diversity therein should not be destroyed.
    (d) It is given the status of ‘World Heritage Site.’

  • Nahargarh Wildlife Sanctuary

    Why in the News?

    The Forest Department of Rajasthan has initiated efforts to revise the boundaries of the Nahargarh Wildlife Sanctuary to address existing legal and administrative complications.

    Nahargarh Wildlife Sanctuary

    About the Nahargarh Wildlife Sanctuary

    • It was established in 1980, Nahargarh Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Jaipur, Rajasthan.
    • It is named after the nearby Nahargarh Fort, which overlooks the sanctuary.
    • It is a significant part of the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve corridor, providing a habitat for wildlife movement.
    • Geographical Features:
      • It is situated in the Aravalli hills, close to Jaipur city, offering a natural escape amidst urban surroundings.
      • Its area spans approximately 50 square kilometres, featuring rugged terrain with hills, valleys, and plateaus.
      • It has seasonal streams and waterholes that serve as vital water sources for wildlife.
    • Flora and Fauna:
      • Flora: Comprises dry deciduous and thorny scrub forests, typical of the Aravalli range; Key tree species include Dhok, Babool, Khejri, and Ber; Grassy patches and scattered shrubs provide a diverse ecosystem for herbivores.
      • Fauna: Fauna: Includes leopards, hyenas, wild boars, jackals, sambars, chitals, peacocks, partridges, migratory birds, monitor lizards, snakes, turtles, and various pollinators.

    PYQ:

    [2012] In which one among the following categories of protected areas in India are local people not allowed to collect and use the biomass?

    (a) Biosphere Reserves

    (b) National Parks

    (c) Wetlands declared under Ramsar Convention

    (d) Wildlife Sanctuaries

  • With 7 fresh members from Africa, Global Plastic Action Partnership expands to 25 countries: WEF

    Why in the News?

    The Global Plastic Action Partnership (GPAP), an initiative of the World Economic Forum, has reached a significant milestone by expanding its network to include 25 countries.  This expansion introduces seven new members: Angola, Bangladesh, Gabon, Guatemala, Kenya, Senegal, and Tanzania, which together represent a population of more than 1.5 billion people.

    What is the Global Plastic Action Partnership (GPAP)?

    • The Global Plastic Action Partnership (GPAP) is an initiative launched by the World Economic Forum aimed at combating plastic pollution worldwide.
    • It focuses on promoting a circular economy for plastics, emphasizing reuse, recycling, and sustainable management to mitigate the environmental impacts of plastic waste.

    What are the key components of GPAP?

    • Governance and Structure: GPAP operates through a robust governance framework consisting of a Governing Council, Steering Board, and Advisory Committee, involving senior executives from founding organisations such as the World Economic Forum.
      • For example, in Indonesia, the governance structure facilitated the creation of the National Plastic Action Partnership (NPAP), which oversees the implementation of strategies to reduce marine plastic leakage.
    • National Action Roadmaps: GPAP collaborates with various stakeholders to create National Action Roadmaps tailored to specific countries.
      • For instance, Vietnam’s National Plastic Action Partnership launched its roadmap in 2022, targeting a 50% reduction in plastic waste by 2030 through strategies.
    • Investment Mobilization: GPAP focuses on aligning financial resources with plastic waste reduction goals. For example, in Ghana, GPAP worked with the government and private sector to attract investments for waste recycling infrastructure.
    • Global Collaboration Network: GPAP acts as a platform connecting stakeholders globally to address plastic pollution.
      • For example, it facilitated the sharing of best practices between countries like Indonesia and Ghana, allowing them to adopt innovative solutions such as advanced recycling technologies and extended producer responsibility (EPR) frameworks.

    What is the significance of expanding GPAP to include seven new African countries?

    • Strengthened Global Coalition: With this expansion, GPAP now encompasses 25 countries representing over 1.5 billion people, making it the largest global initiative focused on combating plastic pollution.
    • Addressing Urgent Environmental Challenges: The inclusion of these countries underscores a growing recognition of the urgent need to tackle plastic pollution, which poses severe threats to ecosystems, biodiversity, and human health.
    • Fostering Regional Collaboration: The addition of new African countries facilitates regional collaboration and knowledge sharing on best practices for waste management and recycling.
    • Economic Growth and Job Creation: GPAP’s initiatives are expected to stimulate economic growth through the promotion of sustainable materials and recycling infrastructure.
    • Commitment to Circular Economy Principles: The expansion reflects a commitment to advancing circular economy principles, which focus on reusing and recycling plastics rather than relying on single-use materials.

    What are the anticipated environmental and economic impacts of GPAP’s initiatives?

    • Decreased Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The initiative targets a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions associated with plastic production and waste management, which currently accounts for an estimated 1.8 billion tonnes annually. By promoting a circular economy, GPAP aims to mitigate emissions, particularly methane from landfills.
      • By implementing National Action Roadmaps, the partnership seeks to reduce annual land-based plastic leakage by approximately 80% by 2040 compared to business-as-usual scenarios.
      • By transitioning to a circular economy model, GPAP initiatives can help countries recover lost economic value from plastics, estimated at $80 billion to $120 billion annually due to inefficiencies in current systems.
    • Job Creation: GPAP’s efforts in developing sustainable waste management practices are expected to create significant employment opportunities, potentially generating up to 6 million green jobs globally by 2030. This includes safer jobs for informal waste workers who play a crucial role in recycling and waste management.
    • Investment Mobilization: The partnership has already mobilized substantial investments, such as $3.1 billion, aimed at supporting projects that tackle plastic waste. This influx of capital can stimulate local economies and drive innovation in sustainable materials and recycling technologies.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Policy Frameworks and Partnerships: Collaborate with governments, private sectors, and civil society to establish robust policies to enforce regulations and promote extended producer responsibility (EPR) frameworks to drive systemic change.
    • Enhance Innovation and Infrastructure: Invest in advanced recycling technologies for scalable waste management infrastructure and research to develop sustainable alternatives, fostering a circular economy while creating green jobs and reducing plastic pollution.

    Prelims PYQ:

    In India, ‘extended producer responsibility’ was introduced as an important feature in which of the following ? (UPSC IAS/2019)

    (a) The Bio-medical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1998

    (b) The Recycled Plastic (Manufacturing and Usage) Rules, 1999

    (c) The e-Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011

    (d) The Food Safety and Standard Regulations, 2011

  • In news: Vaigai River

    Why in the News?

    The Madras High Court has issued directives to local bodies in Madurai, Theni, Dindigul, Sivaganga, and Ramanathapuram districts to submit a comprehensive action plan with timelines to mitigate pollution in the Vaigai River.

    About Vaigai River

    Geographical Features and Location
    • Originates from the Varusanadu Hills in the Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu.
    • Flows through Madurai, Theni, Dindigul, Sivaganga, and Ramanathapuram districts.
    • Length: Approximately 258 km, draining into the Palk Strait.
    • Major towns along the river include Madurai.
    • Historical site Keeladi is also located along the river.
    Major and Minor Tributaries
    • Major Tributaries: Suruliyar River, Varaha River, Manjalar River, Kottagudi River, and Kridhumaal River.
    • Minor Tributaries: Sambanadi River, Kumilaar River, and Utharakosa Mangaiyar River.
    Conservation Sites and Programs
    • Srivilliputhur Megamalai Tiger Reserve: Acts as a vital catchment area and supports biodiversity.
    • Vaigai Dam: Built near Andipatti, providing irrigation and drinking water.
    • Vaigai River Restoration Program: Focuses on cleaning, improving water quality, and promoting biodiversity.

    In news: Vaigai River

    PYQ:

    [2021] Which one of the following statements is correct?​

    (a) Ajanta Caves lie in the gorge of Waghora river.​

    (b) Sanchi Stupa lies in the gorge of Chambal river.​

    (c) Pandu-lena Cave Shrines lie in the gorge of Narmada river.​

    (d) Amaravati Stupa lies in the gorge of Godavari river.​

  • In news: Pangsau Pass

    Why in the News?

    The Pangsau Pass International Festival returns to Nampong, Arunachal Pradesh, from January 20-22, 2025, celebrating India-Myanmar cultural ties and heritage after a four-year gap.

    In news: Pangsau Pass

    About Pangsau Pass

    • Pangsau Pass is a vital mountain pass located on the India-Myanmar border, connecting the Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh, India, with the Sagaing Region of Myanmar.
    • Situated in the Patkai Hills, it lies at an altitude of approximately 3,727 feet (1,136 meters) above sea level.
    • Often referred to as “Hell Pass” due to its challenging terrain and dense forests, it serves as both a geographical marvel and a historical landmark.

    Geographical Significance:

    • Strategic Location: Acts as a natural link between India and Myanmar, facilitating cross-border trade and cultural exchanges.
    • Scenic and Biodiverse: Attractions include the Lake of No Return, a mythical body of water in Myanmar associated with World War II legends.
    • Tourism Potential: The Pangsau Pass International Festival showcases the region’s tribal cultures, boosting local economies and promoting tourism.

    Historical/Political Significance

    • The pass was a crucial part of the Stillwell Road (Ledo Road), constructed during World War II to connect India to China through Myanmar.
    • It played a pivotal role in the China-Burma-India Theater, facilitating supply lines for Allied forces.
    • It serves as a gateway for implementing India’s Act East Policy, aimed at strengthening ties with Southeast Asia.
    • It facilitates cross-border trade and cultural exchanges, fostering economic and diplomatic relationships between India and Myanmar.
    • It enables communities on both sides of the border to engage under the Free Movement Regime (FMR) (now suspended), allowing visitors to travel up to 16 km into each other’s territories without visas or passports.

    PYQ:

    [2012] When you travel in Himalayas, you will see the following:

    1. Deep gorges

    2. U-turn river courses

    3. Parallel mountain ranges

    4. Steep gradients causing land-sliding

    Which of the above can be said to be the evidences for Himalayas being young fold mountains?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 1, 2 and 4 only

    (c) 3 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4