Water Management – Institutional Reforms, Conservation Efforts, etc.

[pib] MJS launches ‘Bhu-Neer’ Portal for Ground Water Withdrawal Permits

Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: ‘Bhu-Neer’ Portal, CGWA

Why in the News?

The ‘Bhu-Neer’ Portal was digitally launched by Minister of Jal Shakti, during the India Water Week 2024.

About the ‘Bhu-Neer’ Portal:

	Details
About	• Centralized platform for managing groundwater withdrawal permits. • Developed by the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) and National Informatics Centre (NIC). • Aims to regulate groundwater usage across India efficiently, ensuring transparency and sustainability.
Features and Provisions	• User-friendly interface with PAN-based single ID, NOC with QR code, and streamlined processes. • Improved version compared to its predecessor, NOCAP. • Ensures groundwater compliance and promotes sustainable practices.
Implementation	• The portal is live and accessible for groundwater queries, tracking, and payments. • Open to both project proponents and the general public for groundwater-related services.

Back2Basics: Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA)

It has the mandate of regulating groundwater development and management in the country.
It is constituted under the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986.
CGWA issues advisories, public notices and grant No Objection Certificates (NOC) for groundwater withdrawal.

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

(d) 1 and 3 only

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Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

What is High-Altitude Sickness?

Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:
Prelims level: High-Altitude Sickness
Why in the News?

The tragic death of a trekker scaling Garur Peak in Uttarakhand, underscores the dangers of high-altitude sickness in the Himalayas.

What is High-Altitude Sickness?
- Causes: High-altitude sickness, or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), occurs when the body struggles to acclimatise to elevations above 8,000 feet (2,400 metres) due to reduced oxygen levels.
- Symptoms: Early signs include headache, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath. If untreated, it may escalate to:
  - High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE): Fluid in the lungs, causing breathing difficulties.
  - High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE): Fluid in the brain, leading to confusion, hallucinations, and coma.
Prevention and Treatment
- To prevent AMS, experts recommend a slow ascent with rest days every 3-4 days above 3,000 meters and avoiding sleeping elevation increases of more than 500 meters per day.
- Medications:
  - Acetazolamide: Aids acclimatisation.
  - Dexamethasone: Reduces severe inflammation.
  - Nifedipine: Prevents HAPE in high-risk individuals.
    Note: Medications are not foolproof and are to be taken under medical guidance.
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Swachh Bharat Mission

[pib] World Toilet Day, 2024

Prelims Only | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Government Scheme/Policies

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: World Toilet Day, 2024

Why in the News?

World Toilet Day, celebrated every year on November 19, is an official United Nations observance aimed at raising awareness of the global sanitation crisis and promoting action for safe toilets worldwide.
- 2024 Theme: “Sanitation for Peace” – highlights the role of sanitation in promoting peace, security, and resilience.

About World Toilet Day

It is celebrated each year on November 19 to raise awareness about global sanitation issues.
It became an UN-recognized day in 2013 to emphasize the importance of safe sanitation under SDG 6.
It was first proposed by Jack Sim of the World Toilet Organization in 2001.
Purpose: To address the health, dignity, and environmental challenges linked to inadequate sanitation.

Significance and Global Collaborations

Public Health: Prevents waterborne diseases; 1,000 child deaths daily linked to unsafe sanitation (WHO).
UN Initiatives: UNICEF, WHO, and UN-Water work with countries to improve WASH (water, sanitation, hygiene) facilities.
NGO Support: Organizations like World Toilet Organization and WaterAid implement sanitation projects and awareness.
International Partnerships: Programs like Sanitation and Water for All (SWA) unify governments and NGOs for sanitation solutions.

India’s Policies and Successes

Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM):
- SBM-Grameen: Over 11.73 crore household toilets built; 5.57 lakh villages ODF.
- SBM-Urban: 63.63 lakh household toilets constructed; 4,576 cities ODF.
Jal Jeevan Mission: Aims to provide piped drinking water to rural households, supporting sanitation.
Women’s Safety Campaigns: Programs like Hamara Shauchalay: Hamara Samman link sanitation to dignity, especially for women.
Waste Management: SBM Phase II focuses on sustainable waste management and sanitation systems.

PYQ:

[2024] Consider the following statements regarding World Toilet Organization:

It is one of the agencies of the United Nations.
World Toilet Summit, World Toilet Day and World Toilet College are the initiatives of this organization, to inspire action to tackle the global sanitation crisis.
The main focus of its function is to grant funds to the least developed countries and developing countries to achieve the end of open defecation.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 2 only

(b) 3 only

(d) 2 and 3

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Tiger Conservation Efforts – Project Tiger, etc.

India’s 56th Tiger Reserve notified in Chhatisgarh

Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve

India's 56th Tiger Reserve notified in Chhatisgarh

Why in the News?

The Indian government has notified Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve in Chhattisgarh as the country’s 56th Tiger Reserve, now recognized as the third-largest tiger reserve in India.

Largest Tiger Reserves in India:

First: Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve, Andhra Pradesh
Second: Manas Tiger Reserve, Assam
Third: Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve, Chhattisgarh

About the Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve (TR):

	Details
Location	• Located across Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur, Korea, Surajpur, and Balrampur districts of Chhattisgarh. • Total area: 2,829.38 sq. km. • Core area: 2,049.2 sq. km (Guru Ghasidas National Park + Tamor Pingla Wildlife Sanctuary). • Buffer area: 780.15 sq. km.
Regional Significance	• Contiguous with Sanjay Dubri Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh forming a 4,500 sq. km landscape. • Connected to Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve (west) and Palamau Tiger Reserve (east).
Biodiversity	• 753 species documented by Zoological Survey of India. • 230 bird species. • 55 mammal species, including several threatened species.
Landscape	• Located within the Chota Nagpur Plateau and partly in the Baghelkhand Plateau. • Features dense forests, streams, and rivers, providing a rich habitat for tigers and diverse fauna.

PYQ:

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

(a) Corbett

(b) Ranthambore

(d) Sunderbans

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Defence Sector – DPP, Missions, Schemes, Security Forces, etc.

[pib] Italy-India Joint Strategic Action Plan (2025-2029)

Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Italy-India Joint Strategic Action Plan

Why in the News?

India and Italy signed an ambitious 5-year ‘joint strategic action plan 2025-2029’ that would include cooperation in space sector, critical technology, research, co-production of military equipment and widening the ambit of economic cooperation.

Key Focus Areas of the Joint Strategic Action Plan:

	Details
Political Dialogue	• Regular high-level meetings and reciprocal visits. • Annual bilateral consultations between foreign ministries to discuss mutual interests.
Economic Cooperation	• Boosting trade, market access, and investments in sectors like transportation, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and green technologies. • Promoting industrial partnerships and mutual investments.
Connectivity	• Collaborating on sustainable transport initiatives. • Enhancing maritime and land infrastructure, participating in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC).
Science, Technology, IT, Innovation	• Cooperation in emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), telecommunications, and digital services. • Innovation, research collaborations, and exchange programs for scientific growth.
Space Sector	• Collaboration between the Italian Space Agency (ASI) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in Earth observation and lunar science. • Facilitating mutual commercial space collaborations.
Energy Transition	• Technology summits in renewable energy. • Cooperation in green hydrogen, biofuels, and energy efficiency. • Collaboration in global energy alliances like the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and Global Biofuels Alliance.
Defence Cooperation	• Joint defence consultations and staff talks. • Co-development of defence platforms and equipment. • Negotiating a Defence Industrial Roadmap.
Security Cooperation	• Capacity-building in cybersecurity and counter-terrorism. • Regular exchanges and sector-specific talks in multilateral forums.

Significance of the Plan:

Time-Bound Initiatives: It outlines specific, time-bound initiatives to ensure measurable progress and accountability.
Mutual Growth: By focusing on co-development and co-production, the plan aims to leverage the strengths of both nations for mutual economic and technological advancement.
Strategic Alignment: The collaboration in areas like defence, energy transition, and space signifies a strategic alignment of interests, enhancing regional and global stability.
Cultural and People-to-People Ties: Emphasizing cultural exchanges and academic collaborations strengthens the social fabric and mutual understanding between the two countries.

PYQ:

[2016] With reference to the ‘Trans-Pacific Partnership’, consider the following statements:

1. It is an agreement among all the Pacific Rim countries except China and Russia.

2. It is a strategic alliance for the purpose of maritime security only.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Species in News: Oriental pied Hornbills

Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Oriental pied Hornbills

Why in the News?

The people of Mayong village in Assam have come together to protect a growing colony of oriental pied hornbills, which they view as symbols of peace and prosperity.

Species in News: Oriental pied Hornbills

About Oriental-pied Hornbills

	Details
Name	Scientific Name: Anthracoceros albirostris Common Names: Sunda Pied Hornbill, Malaysian Pied Hornbill Size: 600-900 grams, 55-60 cm in length.
Habitat	Found in South and Southeast Asia including India, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Inhabits tropical moist forests, secondary forests, and mangroves.
Behavioural Features	Diet: Omnivorous, mainly fruits (figs), insects, small reptiles. Role: Seed dispersers, forest regeneration agents. Nesting: Female seals in tree cavity, male feeds her.
Conservation Status	IUCN Red List: Least Concern; CITES: Appendix II (conditional trade permitted). Threats: Habitat loss, poaching, pet trade. Conservation: Protected in reserves, community efforts for habitat preservation.

PYQ:

[2016] In which of the following regions of India, are you most likely to come across the ‘Great Indian Hornbill’ in its natural habitat?

(a) Sand deserts of northwest India

(b) Higher Himalayas of Jammu and Kashmir

(d) Western Ghats

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Mother and Child Health – Immunization Program, BPBB, PMJSY, PMMSY, etc.

[pib] Postage Stamp released on Sickle Cell Eradication – 2047

Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Achievements Of Indians In S&T

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination;

Why in the News?

Madhya Pradesh marked a significant milestone in public health by unveiling a commemorative postage stamp dedicated to the Sickle Cell Eradication – 2047 initiative.

What is the Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)?

SCD is a genetic disorder where red blood cells take a crescent shape, impairing circulation and causing complications like anaemia, organ damage, pain episodes, and a shortened lifespan.
- It predominantly affects marginalized tribal populations.
Symptoms: Common symptoms include chronic anaemia, painful episodes (sickle cell crisis), and delayed growth and puberty.
Treatment: Treatments include blood transfusions, hydroxyurea to reduce pain episodes, and gene therapy or stem cell transplantation for long-term management.
India’s Mission:
- Union Budget 2023-24 announced a mission to eradicate sickle cell anaemia by 2047, focusing on awareness and screening for individuals aged 0-40.
- Anaemia Mukt Bharat Strategy: It provides bi weekly iron Folic acid supplementation to all under five children through ASHA workers.

What are the key facts about the Sickle Cell Eradication – 2047 Initiative?

	Details
Aims and Objectives	• Complete eradication of sickle cell anemia by 2047. • Awareness and screening in tribal communities. • Accessible diagnosis and treatment, with tools like HPLC. • Genetic counseling for prevention. • Technology-driven monitoring via mobile app and National Sickle Cell Portal.
Features of the Program	• Newborn screening and prenatal diagnostics at AIIMS Bhopal. • Nationwide expansion to 17 states by 2047. • Advanced testing with HPLC machines. • Community engagement through support groups and education.
Implementation	• Collaborations with institutions like AIIMS Bhopal, Sankalp India, and healthcare providers. • Phased rollout starting with high-prevalence regions in Madhya Pradesh. • Government funding for infrastructure and tech development. • Digital technology for data collection and case management.

PYQ:

[2023] Consider the following statements in the context of interventions being undertaken under the Anemia Mukt Bharat Strategy :

It provides prophylactic calcium supplementation for pre-school children, adolescents and pregnant women.
It runs a campaign for delayed cord clamping at the time of child-birth.
It provides for periodic deworming to children and adolescents.
It addresses non-nutritional causes of anaemia in endemic pockets with special focus on malaria, hemoglobinopathies and fluorosis.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) Only three
(d) All four

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Indian Navy Updates

India and Japan sign agreement for UNICORN masts for naval warships

Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Various Security Forces, Agencies & Their Mandates

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: UNICORN Mast

Why in the News?

India and Japan have signed a Memorandum of Implementation (MoI) for the co-development and co-production of the UNICORN (Unified Complex Radio Antenna) mast for Indian Naval warships.

What is the UNICORN Mast?

The UNICORN Mast is an advanced antenna system designed to enhance the stealth and operational capabilities of naval warships.
It was developed through collaboration between three Japanese companies: NEC Corporation, Sampa Kogyo K.K., and The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd.
It will be co-developed in India by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).
It consolidates multiple antennas, typically attached separately to a mast, into a single radar dome (radome).
By reducing the cross-sectional visibility of the mast, UNICORN significantly minimizes the electronic signatures of warships, making them harder to detect.
This technology is already in use on Mogami-class frigates in the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force.

Objectives behind the Mission:

Enhance Naval Stealth: Improve stealth by reducing electronic and radar signatures.
Strengthen Defence Ties: Foster India-Japan collaboration in co-developing advanced defence systems.
Increase Operational Efficiency: Improve radar and communication for better detection and readiness.
Promote Indigenous Development: Support India’s self-reliance in defence tech with BEL involvement.

Significance of this Mission:

Japan’s first defence tech export to India under the 2015 agreement.
Equips Indian Navy warships with advanced stealth technology.
Enhances regional maritime security and deterrence in the Indo-Pacific.
Promotes technology sharing and innovation in India’s defence sector, boosting indigenous production.

PYQ:

[2016] Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently?

(a) Amphibious warfare ship
(b) Nuclear-powered submarine
(c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
(d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier

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Terrorism and Challenges Related To It

Operation Sagar Manthan

Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Various Security Forces, Agencies & Their Mandates

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Operation Sagar Manthan

Why in the News?

The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has initiated Operation Sagar Manthan to dismantle the extensive drug empire of Haji Salim, also known as the “Lord of Drugs”.

About Operation Sagar Manthan

	Details
About the Operation	• An initiative by Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) to dismantle the drug trafficking network led by Haji Salim. • Launched under the direction of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. • A comprehensive crackdown on Salim’s syndicate linked to narco-terrorism.
Aims and Objectives	• Break supply lines, seize narcotics, and arrest operatives. • Disrupt funding for cross-border terrorism. • Strengthen surveillance in remote coastal areas used by the syndicate. • Counter aid from entities like Pakistan’s ISI and disrupt links with figures like Dawood Ibrahim.
Goals	• Reduce cartel influence in the Indian Ocean region. • Mitigate narco-terrorism to enhance regional security. • Improve maritime security to prevent future networks.

Why does the government crack down on drug trafficking?

Public Health Protection: Drug trafficking fuels addiction, mental health issues, and diseases, straining healthcare systems and undermining societal well-being.
National Security and Social Stability: It funds organized crime, terrorism, and violence, destabilizing communities, weakening governance, and hindering law and order.

PYQ:

[2023] Explain how narco-terrorism has emerged as a serious threat across the country. Suggest suitable measures to counter narco-terrorism.

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Species in News: Western Honey Bees

Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

Prelims level: Western Honey Bees

Why in the News?

Western Honey Bees widely used for boosting pollination has led to unintended ecological consequences.
- Now they inadvertently carry and transmit Thai Sacbrood Virus to native bee colonies.

About Western Honey Bees

Scientific Name: Apis mellifera
Introduced globally for their pollination abilities and honey production. In India, they were introduced in 1983 to enhance honey yield.
Widely used in agriculture, particularly for pollination of crops like fruit trees, crops, and vegetables.

Thai Sacbrood Virus Outbreak

The Thai Sacbrood Virus (TSBV) outbreak in China and Vietnam has severely impacted honey bee populations.
- In 1991-1992, a Thai sacbrood virus outbreak devastated around 90% of Asiatic honey bee colonies in South India and re-emerged in 2021 in Telangana.
The virus primarily infects honey bee larvae, leading to their high mortality rates.
As a result, the affected regions experienced significant declines in bee colonies, which in turn affected pollination services and honey production.
The movement of bee colonies for commercial pollination and honey production has facilitated the spread of the virus.

About Indian Bees and Their Habitat

Indian bees are predominantly Apis cerana indica, a species of Asian honey bee.
They are found in a wide range of habitats, including forests, agricultural land, and urban environments.
- They thrive in areas with abundant flowers and nectar sources.
Indian bees are important for pollination, especially for local flora, and contribute to the ecosystem by supporting biodiversity and food production.
They face threats from habitat loss, pesticide use, and competition from Western Honey Bees, which may outcompete them for food and nesting sites.

Significance of Honey Bee:

Pollination and Food Security: Honey bees play a crucial role in pollinating crops, contributing to the production of fruits, vegetables, and nuts, ensuring global food security and agricultural sustainability.
Biodiversity Conservation: By facilitating plant reproduction, honey bees support ecosystem health and biodiversity, maintaining the balance of natural habitats and enhancing the resilience of ecosystems.

PYQ:

[2023] Which of the following organisms perform waggle dance for others of their kin to indicate the direction and the distance to a source of their food?

(a) Butterflies

(b) Dragonflies

(d) Wasps

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Type: Prelims Only

Why in the News?

About the ‘Bhu-Neer’ Portal:

Back2Basics: Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA)

PYQ:

Why in the News?

What is High-Altitude Sickness?

Prevention and Treatment

Why in the News?

About World Toilet Day

Significance and Global Collaborations

India’s Policies and Successes

PYQ:

Why in the News?

Largest Tiger Reserves in India:

About the Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve (TR):

PYQ:

Why in the News?

Key Focus Areas of the Joint Strategic Action Plan:

Significance of the Plan:

PYQ:

Why in the News?

About Oriental-pied Hornbills

PYQ:

Why in the News?

What is the Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)?

What are the key facts about the Sickle Cell Eradication – 2047 Initiative?

PYQ:

Why in the News?

What is the UNICORN Mast?

Objectives behind the Mission:

Significance of this Mission:

PYQ:

Why in the News?

About Operation Sagar Manthan

Why does the government crack down on drug trafficking?

PYQ:

Why in the News?

About Western Honey Bees

Thai Sacbrood Virus Outbreak

About Indian Bees and Their Habitat

Significance of Honey Bee:

PYQ: