Why in the News?
Indiaâs National Security Council Secretariat recently hosted envoys from the US, UAE, Saudi Arabia, France, Italy, Germany, Israel, Jordan, and the EU to review progress on the IndiaâMiddle EastâEurope Economic Corridor (IMEC).

About IMEC Project:
- Part of the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGII) for developing connectivity in emerging regions.
- MoU signed on 10 September 2023 at the G20 New Delhi Summit.
- Members: India, US, UAE, Saudi Arabia, France, Germany, Italy, European Union.
- Aim: Integrate Asia, Middle East, and Europe to boost transport efficiency, reduce costs, create jobs, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and strengthen economic unity.
- Structure:
- East Corridor: India to Arabian Gulf.
- Northern Corridor: Gulf region to Europe.
- Key Ports:
- India â Mundra, Kandla, Jawaharlal Nehru Port (Mumbai).
- Middle East â Fujairah, Jebel Ali, Abu Dhabi, Dammam, Ras Al Khair.
- Israel â Haifa.
- Europe â Piraeus, Messina, Marseille.
- Infrastructure includes: Railway links, ship-to-rail hubs, roads, electricity cables, hydrogen pipelines, and high-speed data cables.
Impact of Gaza War:
- Derailed work: Conflict from late 2023 halted stakeholder meetings and derailed western leg (Middle EastâEurope) progress.
- JordanâIsrael relations at historic low; SaudiâIsrael normalisation stalled.
- Regional rivalries (e.g., SaudiâUAE trade competition) hinder unified operational planning.
Significance:
- Economic: EU is Indiaâs largest trading partner; corridor promises faster, cheaper trade with reduced emissions.
- Strategic: Strengthens Indiaâs role in West Asia and positions it as a connector between Europe and the Middle East.
- Energy & Technology: Potential for clean hydrogen pipelines, electricity and data cable links.
- Resilience: Provides alternative to Red Sea shipping routes vulnerable to disruptions.
[UPSC 2025] India is one of the founding members of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a multimodal transportation corridor, which will connect:
Options: (a) India to Central Asia to Europe via Iran* (b) India to Central Asia via China (c) India to South-East Asia through Bangladesh and Myanmar (d) India to Europe through Azerbaijan |
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Why in the News?
The Great Barrier Reef is facing its sharpest coral decline in 40 years, with the 2024 mass bleachingâdriven by climate change, cyclones, and coral predatorsâseverely damaging large reef areas.

About Great Barrier Reef:
- Location: Coral Sea, off the northeast coast of Queensland, Australia.
- Length & Area: Extends ~2,300 km; comprises ~3,000 reefs and 900 islands, covering ~350,000 square kilometers (about 10% of global coral reef ecosystems).
- Biodiversity:
- Hosts 400 coral species, 1,500 fish species, and 4,000 mollusk species.
- Habitat for endangered species like the dugong and green turtle.
- Reef Types: Includes platform reefs, wall reefs, and fringing reefs.
- Protection Status:
- Managed by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.
- Declared a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site in 1981.
- Mass Bleaching Years: Notable events occurred in 1998, 2002, 2016, 2017, 2020, 2022, 2024, and 2025.
Coral Decline and Bleaching Events:
- Main Cause: Heat stress due to climate change, particularly during marine heatwaves.
- 2024 Event: Fifth major bleaching since 2016; had the widest spatial impact recorded in the Australian Institute of Marine Science’s 39-year monitoring program.
- Additional Damage: Cyclones (e.g., Cyclone Jasper) and flood plumes caused physical damage and freshwater stress.
- Biological Threats: Crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS) outbreaks intensified coral predation, especially in the Swains sector.
- 2025 Survey Findings:
- 48% of 124 surveyed reefs showed coral decline.
- Only 10% recorded an increase in coral cover.
- Regional Impact: Southern Great Barrier Reef saw a 30.6% drop in hard coral coverâthe sharpest annual decline ever recorded in that zone.
[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. 3. All the global wetlands will permanently disappear. 4. Cultivation of cereals will not be possible anywhere in the world. Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only* (c) 2, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 only |
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Why in the News?
The proposal to expand the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve by 1,100 sq km has received clearance from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and awaits approval from National Board for Wildlife (NBWL).

About Sundarbans Tiger Reserve (STR):
- Location: Situated in South and North 24-Parganas districts, West Bengal; lies at the southern tip of the Gangetic Delta.
- Area: Presently 2,585.89 sq km; expansion to 3,629.57 sq km under proposal.
- Status: Notified as a Tiger Reserve, National Park, Biosphere Reserve; part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Unique Feature: Worldâs only mangrove forest with a viable tiger population.
- Tiger Count: Over 100 tigers â 80 in core area, 21 in adjoining forests.
- Landscape: Interconnected estuaries, tidal creeks, and 105 mangrove-covered islands.
- Flora: Dominated by mangrove species like Avicennia, Rhizophora, Heritiera.
- Fauna: Includes Royal Bengal Tigers, Fishing Cats, Estuarine Crocodiles, Irrawaddy Dolphins, King Cobras, and endangered reptiles and birds.
- Boundaries:
- East: Bangladesh border (Raimangal, Harinbhanga rivers)
- South: Bay of Bengal
- North/West: Matla, Bidya, Gomdi Rivers
Back2Basics: Tiger Reserves in India
- Overview: A Tiger Reserve is a legally notified area under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 for the conservation of tigers and biodiversity.
- Governing Authority: National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
- Origin: Initiated under Project Tiger, launched in 1973.
- Structure:
- Core Zone: Highly protected; no human activity allowed; declared as National Park or Sanctuary.
- Buffer Zone: Surrounds core; allows regulated human use and supports conservation-compatible livelihoods.
Tiger Reserve Landscape in India (as of 2025):
- Total Reserves: 58 (up from 46 in 2014)
- Largest Reserve: Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh â 3,727.82 sq km
- Oldest Reserve: Corbett Tiger Reserve, Uttarakhand â established in 1973
- Newest Reserves: Guru Ghasidas (Chhattisgarh), Ranipur (Uttar Pradesh), Ramgarh Vishdhari (Rajasthan)
- Top State: Madhya Pradesh â 7 Tiger Reserves
- Tiger Density: Bandipur TR > Corbett TR > Kaziranga TR (148, 18.6 tigers/sq. km.)
- Global Tiger Day: Celebrated on 29th July every year
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[UPSC 2020] Among the following Tiger Reserves, which one has the largest area under âCritical Tiger Habitatâ?”
Options: (a) Corbett (b) Ranthambore (c) Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam* (d) Sunderbans |
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Why in the News?
As India marks Jim Corbettâs 150th birth anniversary (1875â2025), it reflects on his legacy as a hunter, naturalist, author, and conservationistâafter whom Corbett National Park is named.

Who was Jim Corbett?
- Full Name: Edward James Corbett (1875â1955), nicknamed Carpet Sahib in Kumaon.
- Profession: British hunter, naturalist, author, and later a wildlife conservationist.
- Famous Books: Man-Eaters of Kumaon, The Man-Eating Leopard of Rudraprayag, My India, Jungle Lore, Tree Tops.
- Hunter Turned Hero:
- Known for tracking and killing man-eating tigers and leopards in Kumaon and Garhwal.
- Used patient observation and deep knowledge of terrain and animal behaviour.
- Shift to Conservation:
- Grew concerned about dwindling tiger numbers and deforestation.
- Advocated for wildlife protection and ecological balance.
- Commemoration: Indiaâs first national park was renamed Jim Corbett National Park in 1957 in his honour.
Back2Basics: Jim Corbett National Park
- Established: 1936 as Hailey National Park; later renamed in 1957.
- Location: Nainital district, Uttarakhand; core of Corbett Tiger Reserve.
- Historical Importance:
- Launch site of Project Tiger in 1973, Indiaâs flagship tiger conservation programme.
- Geography:
- Lies in Shivalik and Outer Himalayan foothills.
- Rivers: Ramganga, Sonanadi, Mandal, Palain, and Kosi.
- Area: Over 500 sq km (includes Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary as buffer).
- Biodiversity:
- Flora: Moist deciduous forest with Sal, Khair, and Sissoo; 600+ plant species.
- Fauna: Over 230 tigers (highest density in the world), elephants, leopards, deer (sambar, chital, barking), sloth bears, wild boars, birds, and reptiles.
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[UPSC 2013] Consider the following pairs : National Park River flowing through the Park
1. Corbett National Park : Ganga
2. Kaziranga National Park : Manas
3. Silent Valley National Park : Kaveri
Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2 (b) 3 only (c) 1 and 3 (d) None* |
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Why in the News?
The Lakshadweep administration has proposed the acquisition of Bitra Island, the smallest inhabited island in the archipelago, for national defence purposes.

About Bitra Island:
- Location: Situated in the Arabian Sea; part of the Amindivi subgroup of the Lakshadweep archipelago
- Distance from Mainland: ~483 km west of Kochi Â
- Land Area: 0.10â0.18 square kilometres
- Population: ~271â350 (as of 2025)
- Language and Livelihood
- Languages Spoken: Malayalam, Mahl, and English
- Economic Activities: Fishing, coconut farming, and emerging ecotourism (birdwatching, snorkeling, diving)
- Climate:
- Type: Tropical monsoon (similar to Kerala)
- Temperature Range: 25â35°C
- Annual Rainfall: ~1600 mm
- Monsoon Season: Mid-May to mid-September; sea access is limited
- Historical and Cultural Significance:
- History: Populated around 1945
- Pilgrimage Site: Hosts a shrine to Arab saint Malik Mulla
Strategic Importance:
- Location: Close to key international shipping lanes in the Arabian Sea
- Surveillance Advantage: Ideal point for maritime monitoring
- Military Utility: Suitable for naval installations and coastal defence
- Maritime Awareness: Enhances Indiaâs preparedness in the western seaboard
[UPSC 2014] Which one of the following pairs of islands is separated from each other by the ‘Ten Degree Channel’?
Options: (a) Andaman and Nicobar* (b) Nicobar and Sumatra (c) Maldives and Lakshadweep (d) Sumatra and Java |
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Why in the News?
India has formally submitted a Letter of Request (LoR) to the United States seeking the co-production of Javelin anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) under the âMake in Indiaâ initiative.

About the Javelin Missile:
- About: American-made man-portable anti-tank guided missile (ATGM).
- Developers: Jointly developed by Raytheon and Lockheed Martin.
- Purpose:
- Defeats heavily armoured vehicles such as main battle tanks.
- Effective against bunkers, fortifications, and helicopters.
- Operational Since: Entered service with the U.S. military in 1996.
Key Features:
- Range:
- Standard effective range: 2.5 km.
- Advanced variants: Can reach up to 4 km.
- Weight: Approximately 5.11 kg.
- Technology:
- Employs a “fire-and-forget” system.
- No need for operator guidance after launch.
- Target Engagement Modes:
- Direct attack mode: For conventional engagement.
- Top-attack mode: Hits the weaker top armour of tanks.
- Mobility & Safety:
- Soldiers can relocate or reload immediately after launch.
- Uses infrared guidance allowing quick post-launch cover.
[UPSC 2018] What is âTerminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)â, sometimes seen in the news?
Options: (a) An Israeli radar system (b) Indiaâs indigenous anti-missile programme (c) An American anti-missile system* (d) A defence collaboration between Japan and South Korea |
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Why in the News?
Five strong offshore earthquakes hit Russiaâs Kamchatka Peninsula, the strongest measuring 7.4 in magnitude.

About Kamchatka Peninsula:
- Location: Situated in Far Eastern Russia, bordered by the Sea of Okhotsk (west) and the Pacific Ocean and Bering Sea (east).
- Size and Shape: Stretches about 1,200 km north to south and 480 km at its widest point.
- Area: Covers approximately 370,000 square kilometersâcomparable in size to New Zealand.
- Ethnic Composition: Majority are ethnic Russians; around 13,000 belong to the indigenous Koryak community.
- Climate: Harsh with long, snowy winters and wet, cool summers.
- Topography: Highest peak is Klyuchevskaya Sopka, an active volcano in the Eastern Mountain Range.
- Global Recognition: Hosts the âVolcanoes of Kamchatka,â a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tectonic Significance:
- Geological Setting: Lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it a global hotspot for seismic and volcanic activity.
- Volcanic Density: Contains over 150 volcanoes, 29 of which are currently active.
- KurilâKamchatka Trench: Located just offshore, reaches depths of about 10,500 meters and drives regional seismicity.
- Tectonic Cause: Caused by subduction of the Pacific Plate beneath the Eurasian Plate.
[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* |
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Why in the News?
The completion of Ethiopia’s Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has reignited tensions over Nile water rights, with Egypt and Sudan fearing reduced water flows.

About Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD):
- Overview: Gravity dam on the Blue Nile near EthiopiaâSudan border.
- Construction Timeline: Under construction since 2011, led by Ethiopian Electric Power Corporation.
- Capacity: Set to become Africaâs largest hydropower plant with 6.45 GW output.
- Reservoir Size: Holds 74 billion cubic metres; filling may take 5â15 years.
- Key Features: 145 m tall dam, 16 turbines, and a supporting saddle dam.
- Purpose: Aims to power Ethiopia (65% population lacks electricity) and export surplus to neighbouring countries.
- Disputes Around GERD:
- Egyptâs Concern: Fears reduced water flow; Relies 90% on Nile; demands a binding filling agreement.
- Sudanâs Worry: Concerns over flood risks and water regulation.
- Ethiopiaâs Stand: Asserts sovereign rights; began filling without consensus.
- Stalled Talks: Tripartite negotiations have failed; Egypt warns of possible conflict.
Back2Basics: Nile River
- Overview: North-flowing, longest river in Africa at ~6,650 km.
- Drainage Basin: Covers 11 countriesâTanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, DRC, Kenya, Ethiopia, Eritrea, South Sudan, Sudan, and Egypt.
- Main Tributaries:
- White Nile: Recognized as the headstream, its most remote source is the Kagera River in Burundi, flowing through Rwanda into Lake Victoria. It officially begins at Jinja, Uganda, where it exits Lake Victoria.
- Blue Nile: Originates from Lake Tana in Ethiopia and merges with the White Nile at Khartoum, Sudan. Supplies over 80% of total Nile flow by the time it reaches Egypt.
- Lifeline Status: Vital for Egypt and Sudanâs drinking water, irrigation, and energy needs.
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[UPSC 2008] Ogaden region has been a source of conflict between which countries?
Options: (a) Morocco and Algeria (b) Nigeria and Cameroon (c) Angola and Zambia (d) Ethiopia and Somalia* |
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Why in the News?
Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki in eastern Indonesia has erupted violently, spreading ash up to 18 kilometers into the sky.

About Mount Lewotobi: Key Features
- Overview: Mount Lewotobi is a twin volcano located in East Nusa Tenggara province, consisting of Lewotobi Laki Laki (“Male”) and Lewotobi Perempuan (“Female”).
- Elevation and Activity: Lewotobi Laki Laki stands at 1,584 meters and is more frequently active. Lewotobi Perempuan is taller at 1,703 meters but less active historically.
- Volcanic Type: Both mountains are stratovolcanoes, formed by successive layers of lava, ash, and volcanic debris.
- Lava Domes: During the 20th century, both volcanoes developed small lava domes within their summit craters.
- Magma Composition: The primary eruptive material from both volcanoes is andesite, a type of intermediate volcanic rock.
- Tectonic Location: The volcanoes lie on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a seismically active belt known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
Back2Basics: The Pacific Ring of Fire
- Overview: The Pacific Ring of Fire is a 40,000-km-long horseshoe-shaped zone encircling much of the Pacific Ocean, known for intense geological activity.
- Volcanic Density: This region contains around 75 percent of the world’s volcanoesâmore than 450 in total.
- Seismic Activity: Approximately 90 percent of the worldâs earthquakes occur within this zone.
- Geographic Spread: It extends from New Zealand through Indonesia, the Philippines, and Japan, across to the Aleutian Islands, and then down the western coasts of North and South America.
- Tectonic Plates Involved: Several major tectonic plates intersect here, including the Pacific, Philippine, Juan de Fuca, Cocos, Nazca, and North American plates.
- Subduction Zones: Much of the Ring features subduction zones, where one tectonic plate slides beneath another, generating magma and leading to volcanic eruptions.
- Plate Movement: The movement of these plates is slowâtypically just one to two inches per yearâbut it results in significant geological events over time.
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[UPSC 2018] Consider the following statements:
1. The Barren Island volcano is an active volcano located in the Indian territory.
2. Barren Island lies about 140 km east of Great Nicobar.
3. The last time the Barren Island volcano erupted was in 1991 and it has remained inactive since then. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 (c) 3 only (d) 1 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
Japan has recorded over 1,000 tremors in two weeks near the Tokara Islands, signalling a surge in seismic activity.

Why is Japan so prone to earthquakes?
- Tectonic Plate Convergence: Japan lies at the junction of four major tectonic platesâthe Pacific, Philippine Sea, Eurasian, and North Americanâwhich constantly collide and shift.
- Subduction Zones: Oceanic plates (Pacific and Philippine Sea) are being pushed under continental plates, creating intense geological stress that is released as earthquakes.
- Pacific Ring of Fire: Japan is part of this highly active seismic zone that surrounds the Pacific Ocean and accounts for about 90% of the worldâs earthquakes.
- Volcanic and Fault Line Density: The country has about 10% of the worldâs active volcanoes and numerous fault lines, increasing its seismic vulnerability.
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About Tokara Islands:
- Overview: They are a small volcanic island chain in the Ryukyu archipelago, forming part of Kagoshima Prefecture in southern Japan:
- Geographical Location: Between Kyushu and the Amami Islands, in the East China Sea.
- Composition: Includes 12 islands, of which 7 are inhabited, such as Nakanoshima, Takarajima, and Kodakarajima.
- Volcanic Origin: Part of the Ryukyu Arc, a highly seismically active zone. Mount Otake, an active volcano, is located on Nakanoshima.
- Geopolitical Relevance: The islands are gaining strategic significance due to rising tensions in the East China Sea, particularly involving China and Taiwan. Recent defense policies have called for fortification of the Tokara and Nansei Islands to enhance surveillance.
[UPSC 2008] In the year 2007, an earthquake led to massive radioactive water leakage in the largest nuclear plant in the world. In which country did it occur?
Options: (a) Germany (b) Canada (c) Japan* (d) USA |
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Why in the News?
The Tamil Nadu government, with World Bank support, has launched a âš50 crore restoration project for the sinking Kariyachalli Island.

About Kariyachalli Island:
- Overview: Kariyachalli Island is one of the 21 uninhabited islands in the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park.
- Geographic Location: It lies 4 km south of Sippikulam and 20 km northeast of Thoothukudi, between Rameswaram and Thoothukudi.
- Made of Reef Sediments: The island is a low-lying landform made of reef debris, sand dunes, spits, and sandy plains.
- Biodiversity Hotspot: Located in Indiaâs coral reef zone, it supports 4,300+ marine species, including 132 coral types and the endangered dugong.
- Ecological Importance: It has seagrass beds and coral reefs that provide food and shelter for marine life.
- Natural Coastal Shield: Kariyachalli acts as a barrier against cyclones and tsunamis, helping protect the Tamil Nadu coast.
- Historical Significance: It played a role in mitigating the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami impact.
Why is it sinking?
- Rapid Land Loss: The island has shrunk by over 70%, from 20.85 ha in 1969 to under 6 ha in 2024.
- High Tide Erosion: At high tide, only 3.14 ha remains, per an IIT Madras (2025) study.
- Wave and Sediment Pressure: Wave action, sediment loss, and lack of natural shoreline defense are accelerating erosion.
- Climate Change Impact: Rising sea levels and coral bleaching have weakened the islandâs natural protection.
- Seagrass Depletion: Loss of seagrass beds has reduced the islandâs ability to hold sediments and resist erosion.
- Extreme Weather Events: Frequent cyclones and storms are making the island more vulnerable.
- Future Risk: If the current trend continues, Kariyachalli may vanish by 2036.
[UPSC 2023] Which one of the following is the best example of repeated falls in sea level, giving rise to present-day extensive marshland?
Options: (a) Bhitarkanika Mangroves (b) Marakkanam Salt Pans (c) Naupada Swamp (d) Rann of Kutch* |
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Why in the News?
For the first time since Indiaâs independence, the Shipki La pass in Himachal Pradesh has been opened to domestic tourists, marking a historic shift in Indiaâs border tourism strategy.
About Shipki La Pass:
- It is a high-altitude mountain pass at 3,930 meters in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, on the IndiaâTibet (China) border.
- It is one of only 3 official border trading points between India and Tibet, along with Nathu La (Sikkim) and Lipulekh (Uttarakhand).
- The Sutlej River (called Langqen Zangbo in Tibet) enters India near Shipki La, adding geographical importance to the area.
- The pass lies along National Highway 5 (NH5) and is considered one of the highest motorable roads in India.
- Historically, it served as a major trade route, enabling exchange of salt, wool, spices, yak tails, and tea between India and Tibet.
- Trade was stopped in 1962 after the India-China war, resumed in 1992, but was halted again during COVID-19.
- On June 9, 2025, Himachal Pradesh opened the pass to Indian tourists for the first time since Independence.
- The initiative is part of a “Border Tourism” strategy, which includes the launch of the Sarhad Van Udyan (Border Forest Park).
- It is also being considered as an alternate route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

Other Important Himalayan Passes:
- Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir:
- Khardung La (5,359 m) â Among the highest motorable passes; connects Leh with Nubra Valley.
- Zoji La â Links Srinagar with Leh; vital for year-round Ladakh access.
- Chang La, Baralacha La, Umling La (5,798 m) â Crucial for Leh connectivity and defense.
- Rezang La â Famous for the 1962 India-China war battle.
- Karakoram Pass, Aghil Pass, Demchok Pass â Strategic India-China border passes.
- Himachal Pradesh:
- Rohtang Pass â Connects Kullu with Lahaul-Spiti; key for tourism and logistics.
- Parang La â Links Spiti Valley and Parvati Valley; used by trekkers and herders.
- Shipki La â Now open to tourists; historical Indo-Tibetan trade route.
- Uttarakhand:
- Lipulekh Pass (5,632 m) â Used for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
- Mana Pass â One of the highest vehicle-accessible passes; connects to Tibet.
- Niti Pass, Milam Pass, Kuthi Pass â Historical trade and pilgrimage routes.
- Sikkim:
- Nathu La â Major border trade route; part of the ancient Silk Route.
- Jelep La â Historical route linking Sikkim with Lhasa via Chumbi Valley.
- Arunachal Pradesh:
- Se La, Bum La â Connect to Tawang and Bhutan border.
- Pangsau Pass, Diphu Pass â Connect Arunachal with Myanmar; important for WWII history and connectivity.
[UPSC 2007] Which one of the following Himalayan passes was reopened around in the middle of the year 2006 to facilitate trade between India and China?
Options: (a) Chang La (b) Jara La (c) Nathu La (d) Shipki La |
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Why in the News?
The Tamil Nadu government has officially notified a Greater Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi in Ramanathapuram district.

What is a Bird Sanctuary?
- Indiaâs bird sanctuaries are established under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 (WLPA).
- Section 18 of the WLPA empowers State governments to declare wildlife or bird sanctuaries based on ecological or zoological importance.
- The law prohibits hunting of protected birds and prescribes penalties for violations, including fines and imprisonment.
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About Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus):
- Overview: It is the largest and most widespread flamingo species, found across Africa, southern Europe, and South and Southeast Asia, including India and Pakistan.
- Presence in India: India hosts both Greater and Lesser Flamingos. Greater Flamingo is the state bird of Gujarat.
- Behaviour and Diet: These birds form monogamous pairs and get their pink coloration from a diet rich in brine shrimp and algae. They are omnivores, feeding on invertebrates, small fish, algae, and decaying plant matter.
- Habitat: They prefer saltwater lagoons, mudflats, and saline lakes, and are important indicators of wetland health.
- Migration Pattern: Every year, 100,000â150,000 flamingos migrate from Gujarat to Mumbai, typically arriving in November and settling in the Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary.
- Migration Triggers: Their movement depends on food availability, water levels, and colony crowding.
- Conservation Status:
- IUCN Red List: Least Concern (LC) (species is widespread and abundant)
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule II (protected but with lesser penalties than Schedule I)
- CMS (Convention on Migratory Species): Appendix II (species need international cooperation for conservation)
- CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species): Appendix II (trade is regulated to avoid overexploitation)
About the Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi:
- Location: The sanctuary lies in the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, spanning 524.7 hectares in Rameshwaram taluk.
- Habitat: It includes mangroves, sand dunes, mudflats, and marshes, supporting migratory birds, marine life, and sea turtles.
- Flyway Connection: The site falls along the Central Asian Flyway, a key route for wetland migratory birds.
- Bird Census: The 2023â24 wetland bird survey recorded over 10,700 birds, including herons, egrets, sandpipers, and both flamingo species.
- Ecological Importance: Mangrove species like Avicennia and Rhizophora dominate the area, offering breeding grounds and coastal protection.
[UPSC 2015] With reference to an organization known as ‘BirdLife International’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
(1) It is a Global Partnership of Conservation Organizations. (2) The concept of ‘biodiversity hotspots’ originated from this organization. (3) It identifies the sites known/referred to as ‘Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas’.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only * (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
India has added two new wetlandsâKhichan in Phalodi and Menar in Udaipur, both located in Rajasthanâto the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance. With these additions, Indiaâs total number of Ramsar sites has reached 91.
Khichan and Menar Wetlands:Â Â
- Khichan (Phalodi District):
- It is internationally famous for hosting thousands of migratory Demoiselle cranes, making it a major birdwatching destination.
- The wetland supports biodiversity, acting as a crucial habitat for migratory birds and maintaining ecological balance.
- Menar (near Udaipur):
- It is known as Rajasthanâs “Bird Village”, celebrated for its community-led conservation efforts.
- It hosts rare birds like the cinereous vulture, Himalayan griffon, Dalmatian pelican, and black-tailed godwit.
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About the Ramsar Convention:
- It is an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands.
- It was established on February 2, 1971, in the city of Ramsar, Iran.
- The convention focuses on:
- Identifying and designating wetlands of global importance.
- Ensuring effective management of these wetlands.
- Promoting international cooperation for wetland protection.
- India and the Ramsar Convention:
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- India became a signatory in 1982.
- The first Site in India was Chilika Lake in Odisha, designated in 1981.
- As of now, India has 91 Ramsar sites, covering around 13.58 lakh hectares.
- Wetlands listed under Ramsar make up about 10% of India’s total wetland area.
- Tamil Nadu has the highest number of Ramsar sites (20), followed by Uttar Pradesh (10).
9 Criteria for Declaring Ramsar Sites:
A wetland can be declared a Ramsar Site by a signatory country if it meets one or more of the following criteria:
- It has unique, rare, or representative wetland types.
- It supports vulnerable, endangered, or endemic species.
- It is a habitat for waterfowl, especially during migration.
- It holds significant ecological, botanical, zoological, limnological, or hydrological features.
- It supports scientific research and promotes biodiversity conservation.
- It provides ecosystem services like flood control, water purification, and groundwater recharge.
- It has cultural, spiritual, or recreational value.
- It supports sustainable livelihoods for local communities.
- It faces threats requiring international cooperation for conservation.
Other Key Facts:
- 171 countries are currently part of the Ramsar Convention.
- The United Kingdom has the highest number of Ramsar sites (175); Mexico follows with 142 sites.
- Bolivia has the largest wetland area under protection, covering 148,000 sq. km.
- World Wetlands Day is celebrated every year on February 2, to commemorate the signing of the Ramsar Convention and raise awareness about the importance of wetlands.
- The Montreux Record is a list of Ramsar sites that require urgent conservation attention due to human-induced threats.
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[UPSC 2022] Consider the following pairs:
Wetland/Lake Location
1. Hokera Wetland â Punjab
2. Renuka Wetland â Himachal Pradesh
3. Rudrasagar Lake â Tripura
4. Sasthamkotta Lake â Tamil Nadu
How many pairs given above are correctly matched?
Options: (a) Only one pair (b) Only two pairs* (c) Only three pairs (d) All four pairs. |
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Why in the News?
The Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand opened to tourists on June 1 for its annual four-month window.

About the Valley of Flowers National Park:
- Location: The park is in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, within the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.
- Altitude and Size: It covers 87 square kilometres and lies at 3,352 to 3,658 metres above sea level.
- Protected Status: Declared a National Park in 1980 and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988.
- Natural Features: Known for its colourful meadows, dense forests, waterfalls, and snow-capped mountains.
- Mountain Range: Lies in the transition zone between the Zanskar and Great Himalaya ranges.
- River System: The Pushpawati River, from the Tipra Glacier, flows through the valley into the Alaknanda River.
- Ecosystem: It is part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, which was named a UNESCO Man and Biosphere (MAB) Reserve in 2004.
Flora and Fauna of the Valley:
- Plant Diversity: The valley has over 520â650 species of flowers like orchids, primulas, poppies, daisies, and the sacred brahmakamal.
- Flora by Altitude Zones:
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- Sub-alpine (3,200â3,500 m): Trees like maple, fir, birch, and rhododendron.
- Lower alpine (3,500â3,700 m): Shrubs like junipers, willows, and geraniums.
- Higher alpine (above 3,700 m): Mosses, lichens, and the blue Himalayan poppy.
- Animal Life: Includes rare species like the Asiatic black bear, snow leopard, musk deer, brown bear, red fox, and the Himalayan monal bird.
[UPSC 2019] Which one of the following National Parks lies completely in the temperate alpine zone?
Options: (a) Manas National Park (b) Namdapha National Park (c) Neora Valley National Park (d) Valley of Flowers National Park* |
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Why in the News?
The Jharkhand government has announced to establish its first tiger safari in the fringe area of the Barwadih Western Forest Range in Latehar district, which is part of the Palamau Tiger Reserve (PTR).
What is a Tiger Safari?
- About: A tiger safari is a tourist activity where visitors observe tigers in natural-like habitats, usually around tiger reserves.
- Legal Status: The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 does NOT define tiger safaris but restricts construction in protected areas unless approved by the National Board for Wildlife.
- Policy Origin: The idea was formally introduced in 2012 by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) under its tourism guidelines.
- Rules on Tiger Inclusion (2016): Initially, safaris were allowed only in buffer or fringe zones and could host rescued or conflict tigers, not zoo-bred ones.
- Amended Rules (2019): The NTCA later allowed even zoo-bred tigers, with Central Zoo Authority (CZA) in charge of animal welfare.
- Supreme Court Ruling (2024): The court ordered that safaris must be built outside core and buffer zones to protect wild habitats.
About Jharkhand’s Tiger Safari Project:
- Location: Planned in the Barwadih Western Range, outside core and buffer zones of Palamau Tiger Reserve (PTR), in line with the Supreme Courtâs order.
- Animal Inclusion: Will house only rescued, injured, or orphaned tigers from various reserves and zoos â not wild tigers from PTR.
- Tourism and Employment: The project aims to boost tourism and create jobs for around 200 locals as guides and staff.
- Approval Process: The plan is still in early stages. After state Forest Department approval, a Detailed Project Report (DPR) will go to NTCA and CZA.
Back2Basics: Palamu Tiger Reserve
- It is located in Jharkhand’s Latehar and Garhwa districts, is one of India’s oldest tiger reserves, established under Project Tiger in 1973.
- Spanning over 1,014 sq. km, it features a diverse landscape of valleys, hills, plains and is nourished by rivers like the North Koel, Auranga, and Burha.
- The reserve is rich in moist and dry deciduous forests, dominated by Sal and bamboo.
- It is home to key wildlife species, including tigers, Asiatic elephants, leopards, and sloth bears.
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[UPSC 2020] Among the following Tiger Reserves, which one has the largest area under âCritical Tiger Habitatâ?
Options: (a) Corbett (b) Ranthambore (c) Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam* (d) Sunderbans |
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Why in the News?
Donald Trump plans to announce that the US will officially refer to the Persian Gulf as the âArabian Gulfâ or âGulf of Arabiaâ, aligning with the preferences of Arab nations.

About Persian Gulf
- The Persian Gulf is a marginal sea of the Indian Ocean, located in Western Asia.
- It is connected to the Arabian Sea through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint for global oil shipments.
- The gulf spans an area of approximately 251,000 km².
- Its average depth is around 50 meters, with a maximum depth of about 90 meters.
- The total coastline is roughly 5,117 km, with Iran possessing the longest share (~1,536 km).
- The gulf is bordered by:
- North: Iran
- Southwest: Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE
- Northwest: Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain
- Key islands:
- Qeshm Island (Iran) â the largest island in the Persian Gulf (~1,491 km²), nearly 2.5 times the size of Bahrain.
- Bahrain â a sovereign archipelago state with over 50 islands, and home to a major US naval base.
- It is recognized officially by the International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO) as the âPersian Gulfâ.
[UPSC 2024] Consider the following statements:
Statement-I: Sumed pipeline is a strategic route for Persian Gulf oil and natural gas shipments to Europe.
Statement-II: Sumed pipeline connects the Red Sea with the Mediterranean Sea.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
Options: (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I* (b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I (c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect (d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct |
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Why in the News?
The recent Pahalgam terror attack has revived debates on Indiaâs 1966 decision to surrender the Haji Pir Pass to Pakistan during Tashkent Agreement of 1966.
This move is compared to the Soviet Unionâs 1954 transfer of Crimea, which created lasting security challenges.
About Haji Pir Pass:
- The Haji Pir Pass is located in the Pir Panjal Range of Jammu and Kashmir, at an altitude of 2,637 meters (8,652 feet).
- It connects Poonch in India to Rawalakot in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
- Historically, it was a vital route for connecting Jammu to the Kashmir Valley before 1947, making it an essential part of Indiaâs transportation network.
- Post-partition, it became part of PoK and, during the 1965 Indo-Pak War, India recaptured it under Operation Bakshi.
- However, it was returned to Pakistan following the Tashkent Agreement in 1966, a decision criticized by many experts.
How Haji Pir Pass is a Chokepoint?
- Strategic Military Route: The pass provides Pakistan with the ability to control and monitor the Kashmir Valley from a high-altitude position, serving as a key route for military logistics and infiltration.
- Gateway for Infiltration: Historically, it has been used for militant infiltration into India, fuelling insurgency and instability in Kashmir.
- Shortened Military Access: Retaining the pass would have reduced the distance between Poonch and Uri from 282 km to 56 km, improving Indiaâs military logistics and rapid deployment.
- Control over Key Terrain: Controlling the pass enables domination of the surrounding hills, limiting Pakistanâs ability to sustain military pressure and infiltration.
[UPSC 2007] Which one of the following Himalayan passes was reopened around in the middle of the year 2006 to facilitate trade between India and China?
(a) Chang La (b) Jara La (c) Nathu La* (d) Shipki La |
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Why in the News?
The Critical Tiger Habitat (CTH) of Sariska Tiger Reserve (STR) in Rajasthan is set to expand by approximately 4,500 hectares.

What is Critical Tiger Habitat (CTH)?
- CTHs are designated under the Wildlife Protection Act (WLPA), 1972, to conserve tiger populations, keeping areas inviolate for tiger conservation.
- The core areas of tiger reserves, where human activities are prohibited, serve as Critical Tiger Habitats.
- Surrounding buffer zones allow sustainable human activities like eco-tourism and regulated resource use, supporting conservation efforts.
- These areas are scientifically identified based on studies of tiger movement, breeding patterns, and environmental needs, ensuring long-term survival and ecological balance.
- Scheduled Tribes and other forest dwellers’ rights are respected within the legal framework, making conservation inclusive.
- The largest critical tiger habitat in India is the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR) spanning 5937 square kilometers.
About Sariska Tiger Reserve (STR):
- STR is located in Alwar district, Rajasthan, about 107 km from Jaipur, and is one of Indiaâs most important tiger reserves.
- Initially a royal hunting preserve, it became a sanctuary in 1955 and upgraded to a national park in 1979.
- STR was one of the first tiger reserves under the Project Tiger initiative.
- In 2008, after the tiger population was wiped out due to poaching and human encroachment, tigers were successfully relocated to the reserve, marking a world-first for tiger reintroduction.
- Flora: STR has semi-deciduous forests, grasslands, rocky landscapes, and cliffs. The park is primarily dominated by dhok trees, covering around 90% of the area, alongside other species like salar, kadaya, and gol trees.
- Fauna: The reserve is home to species like tigers, leopards, sambhar deer, nilgai, wild boars, rhesus macaques, and hyenas.
- Ruparel River flows through STR, contributing to its ecological richness by supporting wildlife and plant species.
[UPSC 2020] Among the following Tiger Reserves, which one has the largest area under âCritical Tiger Habitatâ?
Options: (a) Corbett (b) Ranthambore (c) Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam* (d) Sunderbans |
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Why in the News?
The Odisha government has notified Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) as a national park, covering 845.70 sq/km. It is the 107th national park and the second in eastern Odisha, following Bhitarkanika.

About Similipal National Park:
- Situated in the Mayurbhanj district of northern Odisha, Similipal is surrounded by high plateaus and hills.
- It includes the Khairiburu and Meghashini peaks, rising to 1,515 meters above sea level.
- The park has a diverse terrain with hills, open grasslands, and wooded areas, supporting various species.
- Flora: The park is home to 1,078 plant species, including 94 species of orchids, with Sal trees dominating the forests.
- Fauna: It boasts diverse wildlife, including leopards, gaurs, elephants, sloth bears, and pangolins. Similipal also supports migratory birds like Bar-headed geese and Brahmini ducks.
- Several indigenous tribes inhabit the region, such as Kolha, Santhala, Bhumija, and Khadia.
- Similipal was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1956, included under Project Tiger in 1973, and became a Biosphere Reserve in 2009.
Melanistic Tigers of Similipal:
- Similipal is home to the worldâs only wild population of pseudo-melanistic tigers, with 13 known to inhabit the area.
- These tigers have a distinct appearance due to higher melanin levels, causing a unique, black-striped coat.
- The mutation in the Taqpep gene makes these tigers pseudo-melanistic.
[UPSC 2012] Consider the following protected areas; 1. Bandipur 2. Bhitarkanika 3. Manas 4. Sundarbans
Which of the above are declared Tiger Reserves?
Options: (a) 1 and 2 Only (b) 1, 3 and 4 Only* (c) 2, 3 and 4 only (d) 1,2, 3 and 4 |
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