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Type: Prelims Only

  • [pib] India’s first modern Compressed Biogas (CBG) Plant

    Why in the News?

    PM Modi inaugurated the 100 TPD cattle dung-based Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) plant in Gwalior.

    About the CBG Plant 

    • The plant is located in Laltipara, Gwalior, within the largest cowshed in the region, Adarsh Gaushala, which houses over 10,000 cattle.
      • It spans over 5 acres.
      • It is India’s first self-sufficient gaushala with a modern CBG plant, where cow dung and organic waste (such as vegetable and fruit waste from mandis and households) are processed into valuable biogas.
    • The project, developed at a cost of ₹31 crores, is a collaboration between Gwalior Municipal Corporation and the Indian Oil Corporation.

    Working features:

    • Bio CNG: The plant produces 2 tons of compressed Bio CNG daily from 100 tons of cattle dung, providing a cleaner, eco-friendly alternative to traditional fossil fuels.
    • Organic Manure: The plant also generates 10-15 tons of dry bio-manure daily, which is a valuable by-product for organic farming.
    • Windrow composting: The plant incorporates windrow composting, located adjacent to the main facility, which enhances organic waste processing.

     

    What is Compressed Biogas (CBG)?

    Details
    About
    • CBG is a renewable natural gas produced from the biochemical conversion of organic waste into methane.
    • It is chemically similar to CNG (compressed natural gas) and can be used as an alternative to fossil fuels in transportation, cooking, and power generation.
    Process of Making CBG
    1. Collection of Organic Waste: Organic waste such as agricultural residue, animal dung, food waste, and municipal solid waste is collected from farms, industries, and households.
    2. Anaerobic Digestion: Waste is placed in an airtight chamber, where microorganisms break it down without oxygen, producing biogas (methane, carbon dioxide, trace gases).
    3. Purification: The raw biogas undergoes purification through methods like pressure swing adsorption, water scrubbing, or membrane separation to remove impurities like CO₂, H₂S, and water, leaving pure methane.
    4. Compression: The purified methane is compressed to 200-250 bar pressure to form CBG, reducing volume for storage and transportation.
    5. Storage and Distribution: It is stored in high-pressure cylinders or tanks and transported to fuel stations or industries for various applications.
    Significance of CBG
    • Reduces fossil fuel dependence.
    • Mitigates landfill methane emissions.
    • CBG can replace CNG, reducing pollution.
    • Utilizes local organic waste.
    • Creates jobs, promotes organic farming, and provides eco-friendly fertilizers.

  • What is Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, launched at Brazil G20?

    Why in the News?

    The recent G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, featured the official launch of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty (referred to as “the Alliance”).

    What are the primary objectives of the Global Alliance?

    • Eradication of Hunger and Poverty: The Alliance aims to eliminate hunger and poverty by 2030, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
    • Support for Vulnerable Populations: It focuses on providing targeted assistance to vulnerable groups through various initiatives, including cash transfers and school meal programs.
    • Resource Mobilization: The initiative emphasizes large-scale resource mobilisation to support its objectives, aiming to reach 500 million people through income distribution programs by 2030.

    Who are the key stakeholders involved in this initiative?

    • The Alliance has 148 founding members, including 82 countries such as India, Brazil, and Bangladesh.
    • It includes participation from 26 international organizations, such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and UNICEF.
    • Nine financial institutions and 31 philanthropic foundations and non-governmental organizations are also involved in supporting the Alliance’s goals.

    How will Alliance function?

    • The Alliance serves as a platform for countries to share best practices and access technical expertise or financial support from other member nations.
    • It offers more than 50 evidence-based policy instruments that member countries can utilize to develop their national strategies against hunger and poverty.
    • Unlike traditional funding bodies, the Alliance does not have an exclusive fund but acts as a matchmaking entity connecting countries in need with donors and technical support providers. Its operational costs are estimated at $2-3 million annually, funded by member contributions.

    What challenges does the Global Alliance aim to address in combating hunger and poverty?

    • Impact of COVID-19: The pandemic has exacerbated issues of hunger and poverty, reversing progress made toward the SDGs. The Alliance aims to counteract these setbacks by fostering international cooperation.
    • Global Inequalities: It addresses deepening social, racial, and gender inequalities that have been intensified by recent global crises.
    • Food Insecurity Projections: Current trends suggest that without intervention, millions will continue to live in extreme poverty and hunger by 2030—double the target levels set in the SDGs. The Alliance seeks to reverse these projections through coordinated action.

    Conclusion: The Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty aligns with SDGs 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) by mobilizing resources, fostering collaboration, and implementing targeted interventions to combat hunger, poverty, and inequalities, ensuring a sustainable and inclusive future.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Poverty and malnutrition create a vicious cycle, adversely affecting human capital formation. What steps can be taken to break the cycle? (UPSC IAS/2024)

  • Kaziranga National Park

    Kaziranga National Park

    Why in the News?

    A sub-adult female tiger from Kamakhya Reserve Forest in Assam strayed near Kaziranga National Park and was attacked by locals.

    All facts about Kaziranga National Park:

    Details
    About • Located in the Golaghat, Sonitpur, Biswanath, and Nagaon districts of Assam, India.
    • Spans 430 sq. km. (166 square miles).
    • Established as a reserve forest in 1905, declared as a National park in 1974, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
    • Declared as a Tiger Reserve in 2006.
    Geographical Features • The park is crisscrossed by the Brahmaputra River along with numerous small bodies of water.
    • Dominated by tall elephant grass, marshland, and tropical moist broadleaf forests.
    • Terrain includes sandbars, beels (flood-formed lakes), and chapories (elevated areas).
    Flora and Fauna
    • Flora: Includes 4 main vegetation types: alluvial inundated grasslands, alluvial savanna woodlands, tropical moist mixed deciduous forests, and tropical semi-evergreen forests.
    •  Fauna: Home to 35 mammalian species(15 threatened), it also includes the world’s largest populations of Indian rhinoceros (2,613), wild water buffalo (1,666), swamp deer (468), elephants (1,940), gaur (1,300), and sambar (58).
      • Important bird area with 57 species of birds, including migratory species.
      • Rich biodiversity, including significant populations of chital, Indian muntjac, wild boar, and hog deer.

     

    PYQ:

    [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

  • In news: Ashtamudi Lake

    Ashtamudi Lake

    Why in the News?

    Several dead fish are floating on the banks of Ashtamudi Lake in Kerala due to illegal use of ‘thotta’ (explosives) and ‘nanchu’ (poisons) for fishing.

    About Ashtamudi Lake:

    Details
    About  • Brackish-water estuarine lake, located in Kerala, covering 5,700 hectares.
    • Designated as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention in 2002.
    Geographical Features • Encompasses 8 channels (arms) connecting to the lake, giving it the name “Ashtamudi.” (gateway to the backwaters of Kerala)
    • Second largest lake in Kerala (first being the Vembanad Lake), drains into the sea via Neendakara estuary.
    • Kallada River is the main water source for the lake.
    • Historical significance as a major port city of Quilon, as recorded by Ibn Battuta.
    Flora and Fauna • Mangrove species: Avicennia officinalis, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, Sonneratia caseolaris.
    • Endangered species: Syzygium travancoricum and Calamus rotang.
    • 57 species of avifauna, including 6 migratory species and 51 resident species.
    •  In 2014, the Clam Governing Council became the first Marine Stewardship Council certified fishery in India for their sustainable clam fishing.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] Which one of the following is an artificial lake?

    (a) Kodaikanal (Tamil Nadu)

    (b) Kolleru (Andhra Pradesh)

    (c) Nainital (Uttarakhand)

    (d) Renuka (Himachal Pradesh)

  • [pib] India’s First Indigenous Antibiotic: Nafithromycin

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Science & Technology has launched Nafithromycin, India’s first indigenous antibiotic to combat drug-resistant infections.

    About Nafithromycin:

    Details
    About • It was developed with the support of the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), a unit under the Department of Biotechnology, to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
    • It aims to treat Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia (CABP) caused by drug-resistant bacteria.
    ( Awaiting final approval from CDSCO for manufacturing and public use.)
    Features   • Developed over 14 years of clinical trials in the U.S., Europe, and India.
    • 10 times more effective than azithromycin. (3 doses to combat Drug-Resistant Pneumonia)
    • Minimal side effects, no significant drug interactions, and food-independent.
    Significance   • It targets both typical and atypical pathogens.
    • It addresses a global health issue, especially CABP, contributing to over 2 million deaths annually.
    • Offers a more effective, faster, and safer treatment for drug-resistant pneumonia.
    • Demonstrates successful public-private collaboration between the government and Wockhardt Pharmaceuticals.
    • A cost-effective solution for treating resistant infections in low-resource settings.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] Which of the following are the reasons for the occurrence of multi-drug resistance in microbial pathogens in India?

    1. Genetic predisposition of some people
    2. Taking incorrect doses of antibiotics to cure diseases
    3. Using antibiotics in livestock farming
    4. Multiple chronic diseases in some people

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

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

  • Project Veer Gatha 4.0

    Why in the News?

    Over 1.76 crore school students participated in Project Veer Gatha 4.0, sharing creative tributes to the bravery and sacrifice of Armed Forces personnel.

    About Project Veer Gatha:

    Details
    About • Launched in 2021 to honor the acts of bravery and selfless sacrifice of Gallantry Awardees.
    • 1.76 crore students from 36 states and UTs participated.
    • Conducted annually since its inception, with increasing participation:
    • First Edition (2021): 8 lakh students, Second Edition (2022): 19.5 lakh students, Third Edition (2023): 1.36 crore students.
    Aims and Objectives • Instill patriotism and national pride among students.
    • Spread awareness about the heroic contributions of Gallantry Awardees.
    • Foster creativity through various forms of artistic expression.
    • Promote national unity and pride across India’s diverse school system.
    • Enhance knowledge about unsung heroes and military heritage.
    Features of the Program • Creative content submissions, including poems, paintings, essays, and videos.
    • 100 national-level winners annually, with a ₹10,000 cash prize and recognition by the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Defence.
    • District and state awards for outstanding students.
    • Educational outreach programs by the Ministry of Defence to engage students.
    • Digital submission via the MyGov portal, making the process inclusive and easy for wide participation.
    • Focus on both famous Gallantry Awardees and unsung heroes.

     

    PYQ:

    [2024] Operations undertaken by the Army towards upliftment of the local population in remote areas to include addressing of their basic needs is called:

    (a) Operation Sankalp

    (b) Operation Maitri

    (c) Operation Sadbhavana

    (d) Operation Madad

  • D’Cunha Committee

    Why in the News?

    The commission, headed by retired High Court judge John Michael D’Cunha, has released a report investigating the irregularities in the procurement and management of COVID-19 resources in Karnataka.

    Key Findings:

    • Among the major concerns are the procurement of ventilators under the PM CARES Fund and the inflated prices of PPE kits.
    • The report has raised alarms over the unnecessary procurement of ventilators and the questionable pricing of PPE kits sourced from Chinese companies.

    What is the D’Cunha Committee?

    • It was formed in August 2023 to investigate the alleged irregularities in COVID-19 procurements and management of medical supplies during the tenure of the erstwhile government in Karnataka.
    • It was headed by retired High Court judge John Michael D’Cunha.
    • It was tasked with examining the procurement processes and the disbursement of funds under various schemes, particularly the PM CARES Fund, and identifying administrative lapses and corruption.

    Recommendations given by the Committee:

    • Investigate Ventilator Procurement: Recommend a probe into the procurement of 130 ventilators on March 22, 2020, under questionable circumstances, despite similar supplies under PM CARES.
    • Review Undelivered Ventilators: Recommended action on payments made for ventilators that were undelivered or partially delivered.
    • Scrutiny of Price Variations: Called for an investigation into the vast price differences for ventilators, ranging from ₹5 lakh to ₹16.25 lakh.
    • Probe PPE Kit Purchases: Suggested further inquiry into inflated prices for PPE kits bought from Chinese firms despite cheaper local alternatives.
    • Formation of SIT: Recommended setting up a Special Investigation Team (SIT) for further probe into the Karnataka Medical Supplies Corporation Ltd. (KSMSCL).
    • Enhance Transparency: Urged improved procedures to ensure accountability in future procurements.

  • Coffee Board devises road map with eye on doubling production, exports

    Why in the News?

    The Coffee Board of India has launched a 10-year roadmap with a goal to double the country’s coffee production and coffee exports by 2034.

    About Coffee Board of India:

    Details
    About • Coffee cultivation in India began with the planting of 7 seeds of coffee during 1600 AD by saint Baba Budan, in the courtyard of his hermitage in Chikmagalur, Karnataka.

    • Until 1995, marketed the pooled supply of coffee.
    • Post-1995, coffee marketing became a private-sector activity due to economic liberalisation.
    Structural Mandate • Managed by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, established in 1942, headquartered in Bangalore.

    • Comprises 33 members, including a Chairman appointed by the Government of India.
    Functions of Coffee Board • Enhancement of production, productivity & quality.
    • Export promotion for achieving higher value returns for Indian Coffee.
    • Supporting the development of the domestic market.
    Coffee Industry in India – Imports/Exports • Karnataka is the largest producer (70%), followed by Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
    • India exports over 70% of its coffee production.
    • India is the 8th largest coffee exporter (FAO) globally (by volume).
    • Coffee exports peak from March to June.
    Agro-climatic Conditions • It is a tropical plant which is also grown in semi-tropical climate.

    • 16° – 28°C temperature, 150-250cm rainfall and well-drained slopes are essential for its growth.

    • Low temperature, frost, dry weather for a long time and harsh sunshine are harmful for its plant.

    • Coffee plants grow better in the laterite soils of Karnataka in India.

    • Major Varieties Cultivated: Arabica, Robusta and Liberica.

    • Arabica has high market value than Robusta coffee due to its mild aromatic flavor.

     

    PYQ:

    [2010] Though coffee and tea both are cultivated on hill slopes, there is some difference between them regarding their cultivation. In this context, consider the following statements:

    1. Coffee plant requires a hot and humid climate of tropical areas whereas tea can be cultivated in both tropical and subtropical areas.
    2. Coffee is propagated by seeds but tea is propagated by stem cuttings only.

    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

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

    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

    (c) 2 only

    (d) 1 and 3 only

  • What is 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.