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Subject: Environment

  • [pib] Green Cover around Coalfields

    Why in the News?

    Coal & Lignite Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) such as Coal India Limited (CIL), NLC India Limited (NLCIL), and Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) have implemented various innovative plantation techniques in addition to traditional methods to increase green cover in and around coalfields.

    Achievements in Green Cover Creation:

    • Coal & Lignite PSUs have successfully created green cover on 10,942 hectares of land as part of their plantation and bio-reclamation efforts over the last 5 years.
    • The efforts are primarily focused on coal and lignite mining areas and surrounding regions.

    Guidelines and EC Conditions

    • The MoEF&CC sets out specific and general conditions for plantation in the Environmental Clearance (EC) of coal mining projects.
    • Plantations are carried out on:
      • Reclaimed degraded forest areas
      • Non-forest lands and overburden dumps to ensure proper reclamation and regeneration of green cover.
    • Under the guidance of the Ministry of Coal, 16 Eco-parks/Mine Tourism sites have been established over the last 5 years.
    • These sites aim to:
      • Promote environmental regeneration
      • Encourage tourism and recreational activities in coal mining areas, boosting local economies and raising environmental awareness.

    Innovative techniques for enhancing Green Cover around Coalfields

    • Three-tier plantation: A method involving planting different species at varying heights to create a layered canopy for enhanced biodiversity.
    • Seed ball plantation: Seeds are encased in soil and compost balls and thrown in barren or degraded areas to promote natural growth.
    • Miyawaki plantation: A high-density plantation technique aimed at creating a dense, self-sustaining forest in a shorter period.
    • High-tech cultivation: Utilizing modern agricultural techniques for efficient plantation and maintenance.
    • Bamboo plantation: Focusing on bamboo as a fast-growing and environmentally beneficial plant for reclamation.
    • Drip irrigation on overburden dumps: Use of efficient water management systems to promote plantation on areas like overburden dumps.

    PYQ:

    [2019] Consider the following statements:

    1. As per law, the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority exists at both National and State levels.
    2. People’s participation is mandatory in the compensatory afforestation programmes carried out under the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act, 2016.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 only
    (c) Both 1 and 2
    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • First Ice-Free day in the Arctic could come by 2030: Study

    Why in the News?

    A recent study suggests that the Arctic Ocean may experience its first ice-free day—where sea ice falls below one million square kilometres—by 2030, or even sooner.

    Key Highlights of the Study

    • First Ice-Free Day Prediction: The study predicts that the Arctic Ocean could experience its first ice-free day (less than one million square kilometres of sea ice) by 2030, or even sooner, depending on climatic conditions.
    • Simulations and Models:
      • 11 different climate models were used to run 366 simulations from 2023 to 2100 to assess the future of Arctic sea ice.
      • Most simulations predict the ice-free day within 7 to 20 years, with some models suggesting it could happen as early as September 2027.
    • Conditions for Ice-Free Day: The occurrence of an ice-free day will depend on a combination of unusually warm seasons and stormy weather, which accelerates the melting of the sea ice.
    • Impact on Sea Ice: Once the first ice-free day occurs, it could be followed by an ice-free period lasting between 11 to 53 days, potentially leading to the first ice-free month.

    How does the Arctic Tundra store Carbon?

    • The Arctic tundra stores carbon primarily through a process where plants absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere via photosynthesis.
      • This carbon gets trapped in the soil and organic matter (plants and animals) that accumulate over time.
    • The cold Arctic climate slows the decomposition of plant and animal remains, meaning that organic materials, including carbon, remain locked in the permafrost.
      • This permafrost acts as a natural storage system, preventing CO2 from being released back into the atmosphere.
    • Scientists estimate that the Arctic tundra holds about 1.6 trillion metric tonnes of carbon, which is roughly double the amount of carbon in the Earth’s atmosphere.

    Why is the Arctic Tundra emitting more carbon than absorbing it?

    • Rising temperatures in the Arctic are causing the permafrost to thaw at an accelerated rate.
      • When permafrost thaws, microbes in the soil become active, breaking down the organic material trapped in the frozen ground, which results in the release of carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4), two potent greenhouse gases.
      • The Arctic has been warming at a rate four times faster than the global average.
      • 2024 was the second-warmest year on record for the region, contributing significantly to the thawing of the permafrost.
    • Wildfires in the Arctic have become more frequent and intense, further accelerating the thawing of permafrost. Wildfire smoke also contributes to the release of greenhouse gases.
    • Between 2001 and 2020, the combination of rising temperatures and increased wildfires led to the Arctic tundra releasing more carbon than it absorbed, marking a significant shift in its role from a carbon sink to a carbon emitter.

    Why does it matter?

    • Climate Change Acceleration: The loss of sea ice will amplify the Albedo effect, causing the Arctic region to absorb more sunlight and heat, which will accelerate global warming and trigger extreme weather events in mid-latitudes.
    • Rising Sea Levels: The loss of Arctic ice contributes to sea level rise, with potential long-term impacts on coastal populations and ecosystems, particularly if the Greenland ice sheet melts completely, which could raise sea levels by 6 meters.
    • Ecosystem and Species Impact: The melting of sea ice will threaten species that rely on the ice for habitat, such as polar bears, walruses, and reindeer, disrupting the Arctic food chain.
    • Human and Infrastructure Threats: Arctic communities and their infrastructure are at risk as the region warms at four times the global average, threatening the livelihoods of people living in these areas.

    Back2Basics: Albedo Effect

    arctic albedo

    • It refers to the measure of how much sunlight is reflected by a surface.
    • It is expressed as a percentage; a surface with a high albedo reflects more sunlight, while a surface with a low albedo absorbs more.
    • Light-colored surfaces like ice and snow have high albedo, reflecting most of the sunlight, whereas dark surfaces like oceans and forests have low albedo, absorbing more heat.

     

    PYQ:

    [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.

    [2012] The increasing amount of carbon dioxide in the air is slowly raising the temperature of the atmosphere because it absorbs:

    (a) the water vapour of the air and retains its heat
    (b) the ultraviolet part of the solar radiation
    (c) all the solar radiations
    (d) the infrared part of the solar radiation

  • Beijing’s War Against Air Pollution

    Why in the News?

    In 2015, Beijing had an annual average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 144, comparable to Delhi’s current average of 155 in 2024. However, Beijing has since achieved a one-third reduction in its pollution levels, with the most notable decline occurring between 2013 and 2017.

    Why discuss Beijing in the context of Delhi?

    The comparison between Beijing and Delhi is significant due to their shared status as capitals of emerging economies facing severe air pollution challenges.  

    • Similar Pollution Levels: In 2015, Beijing had an average AQI of 144, comparable to Delhi’s current average of 155 for 2024. This similarity highlights the potential for improvement in Delhi, as Beijing has successfully reduced its pollution levels significantly since then.

    • Common Sources of Pollution: Both cities experience high pollution from similar sources, including vehicular emissions, coal combustion, and industrial activities. The regional contributions to air quality issues are also significant in both cases, particularly during winter months.
    • Need for Collective Action: Just as Beijing required a coordinated effort across its region to combat pollution, Delhi must engage neighboring areas in a collective strategy to effectively address its air quality crisis.

    What did Beijing do and how did it achieve it?

    • Phased and Strategic Planning: Implemented a 20-year anti-pollution programme in three phases (1998-2017) with local government autonomy and public participation to ensure gradual and sustainable progress.
      • 1998-2008: Initial groundwork.
      • 2009-2012: Strengthening regulations.
      • 2013-2017: Aggressive measures termed the “war against air pollution.
    • Energy Sector Transition: Shifted from coal to cleaner energy by renovating power plants, eliminating coal boilers, and replacing residential coal heating, reducing major emissions.
    • Transportation Reforms: Upgraded public transport infrastructure, introduced emission controls in vehicles, and phased out polluting vehicles with subsidies, reducing transportation-based pollutants.
    • Regional Collaboration and Investment: Partnered with five neighboring provinces for coordinated pollution control and increased financial investment sixfold to implement targeted measures effectively.

    • Financial Investment: A sixfold increase in investment over four years supported these initiatives, allowing for significant infrastructure improvements and regulatory enforcement.

    As a result of these efforts, major pollutants like sulfur dioxide and PM2.5 saw significant reductions (e.g., PM2.5 decreased by 59% between 2013-2017).

     

    What can Delhi learn from the Beijing experience?

    • Integrated Public Transport System: Establishing an efficient bus-metro system to reduce reliance on private vehicles is essential. Upgrading the bus fleet and enhancing last-mile connectivity can significantly improve public transport accessibility.
    • Energy Transition: Similar to Beijing’s shift away from coal, Delhi should diversify its energy sources by promoting renewable energy options like solar power while reducing dependence on coal-fired plants.
    • Regional Coordination: Pollution control efforts should extend beyond city limits to include neighboring regions, fostering collaboration similar to Beijing’s regional initiatives.
    • Public Advocacy for Clean Air: Encouraging citizen engagement in demanding accountability from the government can build political will for implementing necessary changes.
    • Political Will and Consistency: Addressing air pollution requires sustained political commitment and a long-term action plan rather than ad hoc measures that fail to tackle root causes.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Policy Implementation and Regional Collaboration: Formulate and enforce a comprehensive, long-term pollution control policy with coordinated efforts involving Delhi and its neighboring states to address regional pollution sources effectively.
    • Promote Sustainable Infrastructure and Public Engagement: Invest in renewable energy, green public transport, and urban planning while fostering public participation and advocacy for clean air to ensure accountability and sustained progress.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q 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? (UPSC IAS/2015)

  • Assessment of Water Resources of India, 2024 by CWC

    Why in the News?

    • The Central Water Commission (CWC) recently released its study titled ‘Assessment of Water Resources of India, 2024.
      • It estimated India’s average annual water availability from 1985 to 2023 at 2,115.95 billion cubic meters (BCM).

    Key Highlights of CWC’s ‘Assessment of Water Resources of India 2024’ Report:

    • Total Water Availability: India’s average annual water availability between 1985 and 2023 is estimated at 2,115.95 billion cubic meters (BCM).
    • Top 3 Basins in (annual water availability):
      • Brahmaputra Basin: 592.32 BCM
      • Ganga Basin: 581.75 BCM
      • Godavari Basin: 129.17 BCM
    • Bottom 3 Basins in (annual water availability):
      • Sabarmati Basin: 9.87 BCM
      • Pennar Basin: 10.42 BCM
      • Mahi Basin: 13.03 BCM
    • Comparison to Previous Assessment (2019):
      • The current figure of 2,115.95 BCM is higher than the 1,999.2 BCM estimated in 2019.
      • The increase is due to the inclusion of Bhutan’s contribution to the Brahmaputra basin and Nepal’s contribution to the Ganga basin.
    • Per Capita Water Availability:
      • Based on the 2019 study: 1,486 cubic meters for the year 2021.
      • For 2024, with the new data, the per capita availability is projected to be 1,513 cubic meters (based on a population of 1.398 billion).
      • Despite the increase, India remains under water stress (less than 1,700 cubic meters per capita).
    • Utilizable Water Resources:
      • The CWC estimates utilizable surface water at 690 BCM out of the total 1,999.2 BCM.
      • Smaller basins have a higher proportion of utilisable water compared to larger ones like the Brahmaputra sub-basin.

    About the Central Water Commission (CWC):

    • CWC was established in 1945 as the Central Waterways, Irrigation and Navigation Commission (CWINC) on the advice of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar.
    • Operates under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Department of Water Resources, River Development, and Ganga Rejuvenation.
    • A statutory advisory body for water resource development and management.
    • Headquarters: New Delhi.
    • Chairman serves as the Ex-Officio Secretary to the Government of India.
    • Responsibilities include:
      • Control, conservation, and utilization of water resources.
      • Maintaining the National Register of Large Dams (NRLD).
      • Conducting hydrological surveys.
      • Handles surface water, while the Central Groundwater Board (CGWB) manages groundwater resources.
    • Wings:
      • Designs and Research (D&R) Wing.
      • River Management (RM) Wing.
      • Water Planning and Projects (WP&P) Wing.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] Consider the following statements:

    1. 36% of India’s districts are classified as “overexploited” or “critical” by the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA).

    2. CGWA was formed under the Environment (Protection) Act.

    3. India has the largest area under groundwater irrigation in the world.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 2 only

    (d) 1 and 3 only

  • Climate impact of exploring space passing below the radar

    Why in the News?

    The growing reliance on space technologies for climate monitoring highlights urgent environmental concerns, including orbital debris and system interference, necessitating swift international regulations to ensure sustainable space exploration practices.

    How do Rockets affect the environment?

    • Emissions from Launches: Every rocket launch releases significant amounts of carbon dioxide, black carbon, and water vapour into the atmosphere. Black carbon is particularly concerning as it absorbs sunlight much more effectively than carbon dioxide, exacerbating global warming.
    • Ozone Layer Depletion: Rocket propellants, especially those containing chlorine-based chemicals, contribute to the depletion of the ozone layer at high altitudes. This increases ground-level exposure to ultraviolet radiation and disrupts atmospheric circulation, negatively impacting global climate.
    • Satellite Ash: When satellites re-enter the atmosphere at the end of their missions, they burn up and release metallic ash into the middle layers of the atmosphere, which can harm the atmosphere and potentially alter climate patterns.
    • Manufacturing Footprint: The production of satellites involves energy-intensive processes that have large carbon footprints due to the extraction and processing of metals and composite materials.
    • Space Mining Potential: Future activities such as space mining could lead to increased industrial activity both in space and on Earth, further contributing to environmental impacts.

    What are the Barriers to space sustainability?

    • Lack of Regulation: Current space activities operate outside international sustainability frameworks like the Paris Agreement. There are no clear guidelines for emissions from rockets and satellites, allowing unchecked growth that contributes to global warming.
    • Overcrowding in Low Earth Orbit (LEO): The increasing number of satellites and debris threatens to overcrowd LEO, making future missions more expensive and complicating access to space as a shared resource.
    • Need for International Cooperation: Effective regulation requires collaboration through international bodies like the Committee on the Peaceful Use of Outer Space (COPUOS) to create enforceable standards for emissions and debris management.
    • Outdated Treaties: Existing frameworks such as the Outer Space Treaty lack binding provisions that address environmental impacts, limiting their effectiveness in promoting responsible space use.

    What would be the innovative solutions?

    • Reusable Rockets: Developing reusable rockets can significantly reduce manufacturing waste and lower costs by allowing components to be used in multiple missions. However, these rockets may be heavier, increasing fuel consumption, and require costly refurbishments.
    • Cleaner Fuels: Transitioning to cleaner fuels such as liquid hydrogen or biofuels can minimize harmful emissions during launches. However, current hydrogen production methods often rely on non-renewable energy sources, undermining its environmental benefits.
    • Biodegradable Satellites: Designing satellites with biodegradable materials that disintegrate upon re-entry could help prevent long-term debris accumulation. However, these materials currently lack durability for space conditions and face high development costs.
    • Autonomous Debris Removal (ADR): Technologies like robotic arms and laser systems show promise for cleaning up orbital debris but require significant investment and legal clarity before implementation.
    • Global Traffic Monitoring System: Establishing a real-time monitoring system for satellites and debris could reduce collision risks and optimize orbital use. However, data-sharing concerns due to security and commercial interests hinder its development.

    Way forward: 

    • Establish Binding International Frameworks: Governments should collaborate through COPUOS and other international platforms to create enforceable regulations for emissions, debris mitigation, and sustainable practices in space exploration.
    • Promote Innovation Through Incentives: Public and private entities should prioritize funding for green technologies, such as cleaner fuels, biodegradable satellites, and debris removal systems. Financial incentives like subsidies, tax benefits, or penalties can accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices in the space sector.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q  Why is Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System (IRNSS) needed? How does it help in navigation?  (UPSC IAS/2018)

  • Egyptian Cotton Leafworm (A Moth Species)

    Why in the News?

    A moth species called Egyptian cotton leafworm can hear sounds emitted by stressed plants, a study confirmed.

    About the Egyptian Cotton Leafworm

    Details
    • Scientific name: Spodoptera littoralis.
    • Polyphagous pest affecting crops like cotton, tomatoes, maize, tobacco, and peppers.
    • Found across tropical and subtropical regions in Africa, Middle East, and South Asia.
    • The moth has been spreading to new areas due to climate change.
    • Larvae damage crops by feeding on leaves, stems, and flowers, reducing crop yield and quality.
    Findings of the Study
    • Female moths use plant acoustic emissions (sound clicks) to decide where to lay eggs.
    • These sounds, undetectable to humans, help the moths identify healthier, hydrated plants for egg-laying.
    • Moths avoid stressed, dehydrated plants that produce stress-related sounds.
    Impact on Agriculture
    • Harmful in cotton-growing regions.
    • Larvae cause significant damage to a variety of crops, particularly cotton, tomatoes, and tobacco, impacting the quality and quantity of the produce.

    PYQ:

    [2014] Which of the following statements is / are correct regarding vegetative propagation of plants?

    1. Vegetative propagation produces clonal population.

    2. Vegetative propagation helps in eliminating the virus.

    3. Vegetative propagation can be practiced most of the year.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Emissions Gap Report 2024

    Why in the News?

    According to the recently released ‘Emission Gap Report 2024’ presented by UNEP, Global Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions have reached a new high of 57.1 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent in 2023, a 1.3% rise compared to 2022.

    What are the key points of Emissions Gap Report 2024?

    • Urgent Emission Reduction Targets: To align with the 1.5°C goal of the Paris Agreement, global greenhouse gas emissions must decrease by 42% by 2030 and 57% by 2035 compared to 2019 levels.
      • For a 2°C target, reductions of 28% by 2030 and 37% by 2035 are necessary. Current commitments and policies are insufficient, putting the world on track for a temperature rise of 2.6-3.1°C, which would lead to severe climate impacts.
    • Potential for Significant Reductions: The report highlights that it is still technically feasible to achieve the 1.5°C pathway through aggressive action, including increased deployment of renewable energy sources like solar and wind, which could contribute 27% of the necessary reductions by 2030 and 38% by 2035.
      • Additionally, actions related to forests could provide around 20% of the potential reductions in both years. A comprehensive approach involving government action, investment in mitigation strategies, and international cooperation is essential to realize these opportunities.

    What are the Global Emission trends?

    • Global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have continued to rise, reaching a record high of 57.1 gigatons of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2023. This marks an increase from previous years, with fossil fuel CO₂ emissions projected at 37.4 billion tonnes, up 0.8% from 2023, and total CO₂ emissions—including land-use changes—projected to be 41.6 billion tonnes in 2024.
    • The increase is attributed primarily to rising emissions from major economies such as China and India, with India experiencing the largest relative increase at 6.1% and China contributing the most in absolute terms.
    • The overall trend indicates that despite some positive developments in renewable energy adoption, there is no sign that global fossil fuel emissions have peaked, necessitating immediate and substantial reductions to meet climate targets.

     

    What is the progress of G20 countries towards NDCs?

    • Mixed Progress on NDCs: Among G20 countries, six members (China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Russia, and Turkey) are projected to meet their unconditional Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) targets with current policies.
      • However, eight members (Argentina, Australia, Canada, the EU, South Korea, South Africa, and the United States) require further action to achieve their targets.
      • This indicates a significant disparity in progress across different G20 nations, with many needing to be on track to meet their commitments under the Paris Agreement.
    • Need for Enhanced Ambition: The G20 must significantly ramp up its climate ambitions in the next round of NDCs to align with the goals of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. This includes committing to substantial emissions reductions—42% by 2030 and 57% by 2035.

    What is the NCD target? 

    • Collective Emission Reduction Goals: G20 countries have pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), targeting a 42% reduction by 2030 and 57% by 2035, aligned with the Paris Agreement to limit warming below 2°C.
    • Diverse Member Targets and Progress: G20 members have varied NDC targets, such as China aiming to peak CO2 emissions by 2030 with a 60-65% reduction in carbon intensity, while Argentina caps net emissions at 483 million tons of CO2 equivalent.

    What is needed to bridge the gap between 2030 and 2035 goals? (Way forward)

    • Significant Annual Emission Reductions: A reduction of 7.5% per year until 2035 is necessary to align with the 1.5°C pathway, while a 4% annual reduction is needed for the 2°C target.
    • Investment in Renewable Energy: The increased deployment of solar and wind technologies could deliver approximately 27% of the total emission reduction potential by 2030 and 38% by 2035.
    • Action on Forests: Protecting and restoring forests could provide around 20% of the required reductions in both years.
    • Comprehensive Policy Measures: A whole-of-government approach is essential, maximizing socioeconomic and environmental co-benefits while minimizing trade-offs.
    • Increased Mitigation Investment: A minimum six-fold increase in investments for climate mitigation is critical, necessitating reforms in global financial systems and strong private sector involvement.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases that cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997. (UPSC IAS/2022)

  • Eurasian Little Gull spotted in Delhi for first time

    Why in the News?

    For the first time, the Eurasian Little Gull was spotted in the National Capital Region (NCR) near Sultanpur National Park at Chandu.

    About the Eurasian Little Gull:

    Details
    Overview and Physical Characteristics
    • Scientific Name: Larus minutus
    • Common Name: Eurasian Little Gull
    • Size: 30-33 cm in length, wingspan 75-85 cm; Weight: 70–150 grams
    Habitat and Features
    • Breeding Habitat: Marshy wetlands, shallow freshwater lakes, and estuaries in Northern Eurasia (Russia, Eastern Europe).
    • Winter Migration: Offshore waters, coastal areas, and estuaries around the Mediterranean Sea, Black Sea, and Caspian Sea.
    • Migratory Pattern: Migrations from northern breeding grounds to warmer regions in winter.
    Conservation Status
    • Conservation Status: Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.
    • Rare sightings of the species in India, particularly inland regions like NCR.

     

    PYQ:

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

    (a) Birds

    (b) Primates

    (c) Reptiles

    (d) Amphibians

  • India got its 58th Tiger Reserve

    Why in the News?

    • Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh has become India’s 57th tiger reserve after receiving approval from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.
      • Madhav National Park also received approval to be declared a tiger reserve, which will make it India’s 58th tiger reserve after the official notification.

    About Ratapani Tiger Reserve and Madhav Tiger Reserve:

    Ratapani TR Madhav TR
    Location
    • Raisen district, Madhya Pradesh, Vindhya Range, 50 km from Bhopal;
    • 824 sq km (318 sq mi) total area.
    • Shivpuri district, Madhya Pradesh, near the Madhav National Park;
    • 354.85 sq km (137.3 sq mi) total area.
    History
    • Established as Wildlife Sanctuary in 1976.
    • Designated as Tiger Reserve on 2 Dec 2024
    • It was initially a national park.
    • Designated as Shivpuri National Park in 1956.
    • Renamed as Madhav National Park in 1959 after Madho Raj Scindia, Maharaja of Gwalior.
    Flora and Fauna
    • Biome: Dry and moist deciduous forests, 55% covered with teak.
    • Fauna: Tigers, leopards, spotted deer, sloth bear, wild boar, sambar, jackals, wild dogs.
    • Water Bodies: Barna Reservoir, Ratapani Dam, seasonal streams.
    • Biome: Dry deciduous forests with significant scrub and grasslands.
    • Fauna: Tigers, leopards, spotted deer, sloth bear, wild boar, sambar, jackals, wild dogs.
    • Water Bodies: Sindh River, Pitakhal Lake, and seasonal streams.

     

    Why and when did the first Tiger Reserve come up in India?

    • A tiger reserve is a protected area created under the Project Tiger initiative launched in 1973 by the Indian government to protect tigers and their natural habitats.
    • A TR is administered by the National Tiger Conservation Authority.
    • These reserves are a part of the conservation efforts to ensure the survival of tigers, preserve biodiversity, and maintain ecological balance.
      • The first TR in India was the Corbett Tiger Reserve in Uttarakhand, established in 1973. It was also the first national park to be part of the Project Tiger initiative.
    • Key Features of a Tiger Reserve:
      • Core Area: A core area is designated as a national park or sanctuary, where human activity is restricted to protect the wildlife.
      • Buffer Area: Surrounding the core area, the buffer zone consists of a mix of forest and non-forest land, used for controlled human activity while ensuring wildlife conservation. These buffer zones serve as transitional areas for wildlife, providing essential corridors for movement.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] Among the following Tiger Reserves, which one has the largest area under “Critical Tiger Habitat”?

    (a) Corbett

    (b) Ranthambore

    (c) Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam

    (d) Sunderbans

  • Nilphamari narrow-mouthed frog

    Why in the News?

    A study highlights that endemic frog species, like the Nilphamari narrow-mouthed frog (Microhyla nilphamariensis), face challenges due to habitat loss and land use changes in agroforestry habitats like orchards and paddy fields.

    About the Nilphamari narrow-mouthed frog:

    Details
    About A species of narrow-mouthed frog, characterized by a small size, narrow triangular mouth, and reduced webbing between toes.

    It has light brown dorsal coloration with a dark brown diamond-shaped marking.

    (Not listed by either IUCN or CITES.)
    Geographical Location Found in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and northern Pakistan.
    Habitat and Challenges Prefers moist environments like grassy fields near ephemeral pools.

    Faces challenges due to habitat loss and land use changes, particularly in agroforestry areas like orchards and paddy fields.