9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 27th June, 2024

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Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 1

Preserving India’s Geological Heritage

Source-This post on Preserving India’s Geological Heritage has been created based on the article “Read the rocks to improve India’s geological literacy” published in “The Hindu” on 27 June 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-1– Salient features of Physical Geography.

Context-India’s landscapes span from the highest peaks to coastal plains, showcasing a diverse morphology shaped over billions of years. Various locations feature a range of rocks, minerals, and unique fossil collections, revealing scientific “origin” stories derived from geological interpretations rather than mythology.

The article highlights that unlike the well-established protections for archaeological, historical monuments, and cultural heritage sites, India lacks specific laws or policies dedicated to conserving and preserving geo heritage sites and geo-relics for future generations.

What is the significance of preserving Geo-heritage Sites?

1) Geo-heritage sites serve as educational spaces for geological literacy.

2) They help preserve representative examples of India’s geological features and events.

3) These sites allow present and future generations to appreciate natural geological laboratories

4) They provide insights into the evolution of Indian terrain.

Read more- Biodiversity Heritage Sites in India

What are the difficulties in preserving geological sites in India?

1) Limited Traction and Awareness-Geo-conservation in India lags global efforts. Further, there is a widespread lack of awareness concerning important geological sites. For ex- the Dhala meteoritic impact crater in Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh, believed to have formed between 1.5 to 2.5 billion years ago, and the Lonar crater in Maharashtra, recently re-dated to approximately 576,000 years old, highlight geological history that remains relatively unknown.

2) Impact of Development and Mining -Many fossil-bearing sites have been destroyed due to development and real estate growth. This is further compounded by extensive stone mining activities in India.

3) Lack of Specific Legislation– Countries such as Canada and China have designated national parks for their geo-heritage sites, guided by UNESCO’s recommendations, and have enacted laws to protect and designate these areas. Despite being a signatory, India lacks specific legislation or policies for conserving its geo-heritage.

4) Lack of Adequate Power-The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has identified 34 geological sites but lacks the authority to enforce preservation measures. For ex-in  Varkala, Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala, overlooking the Arabian Sea, composed of ancient rocks identified by GSI as a geological heritage site was partially demolished by the district administration due to landslide risks.

5) Half-hearted Measures by the Government– The government withdrew the attempt to establish a National Commission for Heritage Sites, originally introduced in the Rajya Sabha, for unspecified reasons. Similarly, in 2022, the Ministry of Mines drafted a bill aimed at preserving and maintaining geo-heritage sites and geo-relics, but no further steps have been taken since then.

What should be the way forward?

1) India’s turbulent geological history is documented in its rocks and landscapes and should be regarded as part of our non-cultural heritage.

2) There should be compilation of list of all potential geo-sites across India, beyond the 34 already identified by the Geological Survey of India (GSI).

3) There is a need to develop legislation for geo-conservation modeled after the Biological Diversity Act of 2002.

4)The government should create a ‘National Geo-Conservation Authority’ similar to the National Biodiversity Authority, ensuring independent oversight to avoid bureaucratic delays and safeguard the autonomy of researchers and private collectors engaged in academic endeavors.

Question for practice

What challenges exist in conserving geological sites in India? What steps should be taken to move forward?

GS PAPER - 2

Challenges for the Leader of the Opposition in India

Source: The post challenges for the Leader of the Opposition in India has been created, based on the article “Opposition’s larger demography, LoP’s big responsibility” published in “The Hindu” on 27th June 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2– Polity

Context: The article discusses the significant role of the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in India’s Lok Sabha, especially after the 2024 general elections which resulted in a large opposition. It explains the conditions required for recognizing the LoP and highlights the challenges and importance of this position in a balanced and effective parliamentary system.

For detailed information on Qualifying for Leader of the Opposition read this article here

What are the Requirements for the Leader of the Opposition?

  1. 1950s Order (Direction 121): This direction requires a party to have at least 10% of the members in the House to be recognized as a parliamentary party and receive certain facilities. However, it does not specifically address the recognition of the Leader of the Opposition (LoP).
  2. Leader of Opposition in Parliament Act, 1977: Defines the LoP as the leader of the largest opposition party recognized by the Speaker. The party must be the largest in opposition and meet the 10% member threshold. For example, in 2019, Congress, with only 52 members, did not meet the 10% requirement (54 members) and thus could not claim the LoP post.
  3. 10th Schedule: It states all political entities are “parties” regardless of size, eliminating the ‘group’ classification. This suggests the need for updates in the LoP Act to align with the 10th Schedule, which recognizes all parties irrespective of their numbers in the House.

What is the Role of the Leader of the Opposition in the Westminster System?

  1. Prime Minister-in-Waiting: The Leader of the Opposition is considered the Prime Minister-in-waiting. They lead an alternative government ready to take over if the current government falls.
  2. Shadow Cabinet: Forms a shadow cabinet that mirrors the positions of the actual cabinet members. This helps scrutinize government policies and suggest alternatives.
  3. Policy Scrutiny: The shadow cabinet critiques the government’s actions and offers alternative policies. Erskine May describes this as directing criticism and outlining alternative policies.
  4. Communication with Prime Minister: In the British tradition, the Prime Minister informs the Leader of the Opposition about major policy initiatives directly. This maintains an open communication channel.
  5. Indian Context: Although India follows the Westminster system, it does not have a shadow cabinet practice. The role has been mainly statutory since 1977.

What are the Challenges for the Leader of the Opposition in India?

  1. Diverse Opposition: The opposition in India is composed of multiple parties with divergent ideologies and programs, making unity difficult.
  2. Maintaining Unity: The role of the LoP is challenging due to the absence of power-sharing incentives to maintain unity among opposition parties.
  3. Strong Ruling Party: Over the past 10 years, the ruling party’s large majority and intimidatory postures often overawed the opposition, making it feel helpless.
  4. Role of Critic: The traditional role of the opposition is to oppose the government, criticize it, and seek to replace it, but this is challenging without substantial influence.
  5. New Dynamics in 2024: The 2024 general election resulted in over 234 members in the opposition, creating a stronger and more influential opposition. The LoP must capture this new mood and present effective views to influence parliamentary proceedings.

What should be done?

  1. Update the LoP Act: Align the Leader of the Opposition Act with the 10th Schedule, recognizing all parties regardless of size.
  2. Promote Opposition Unity: The LoP should work to maintain unity among diverse opposition parties, leveraging their collective strength.
  3. Enhance Communication: Adopt the British tradition of keeping open communication channels between the Prime Minister and the LoP.
  4. Learn from History: Emulate Jawaharlal Nehru’s practice of valuing opposition input and being present during debates to ensure healthy parliamentary democracy.
  5. Form Shadow Cabinet: Consider forming a shadow cabinet to scrutinize government policies effectively.

Question for practice:

Discuss the role and challenges faced by the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in India’s Lok Sabha, particularly in light of the 2024 general elections and the significant opposition presence thereafter.

India’s Tibet Policy amid US-China Tensions

Source-This post on India’s Tibet Policy amid US-China Tensions has been created based on the article “It’s time for India to reclaim its voice on Tibet” published in “The Hindu” on 27 June 2024.

UPSC SyllabusGS Paper-2-International Relations- India and its Neighborhood- Relations.

Context– A US delegation visited Dharamshala soon after the US Congress passed the ‘Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act.’ This legislation aims to support Tibet and criticize China’s treatment of Tibetans. The Central Tibetan Administration invited the delegation to express solidarity with the Tibetan diaspora and to urge renewed talks between the Dalai Lama’s representatives and Beijing.

India hosted the delegation, with the External Affairs Minister arranging a dinner and the Prime Minister meeting them the next day. This gesture was seen as a carefully considered move amidst ongoing tensions with China.

How has Indias Tibet policy evolved in last few decades?

1) Diplomatic and Humanitarian Commitment--India recognized Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) as a part of China in 1954, reflecting its diplomatic position on territorial issues. Since 1959, India has provided asylum to the Dalai Lama and Tibetan refugees. This demonstrates its robust commitment to humanitarian principles.

2) Changed Stance due to Chinas Disregard – China’s disregard for India’s territorial integrity, its renaming of places in Arunachal Pradesh, and its practice of issuing stapled visas to residents of Jammu and Kashmir, India has opted not to publicly support a ‘One China’ policy. This indicated a shift in India’s approach towards Tibet.

3) Position on the Dalai Lama -India highlights the Dalai Lama’s status as a respected spiritual leader instead of categorizing him as a “separatist,” despite China’s objections. India does not officially recognize the Tibetan Government in Exile or Parliament in Exile as independent entities.

What are the difficulties linked to the United States’ engagement with Indias immediate neighborhood?

1) Marginalizing of India– India has chosen not to publicly endorse U.S. criticisms of China’s policies towards Tibetans. Instead, India has maintained its own carefully balanced approach to relations with Beijing. Allowing U.S. leaders to deliver messages to Beijing from India neglect India’s historically calibrated Tibet policy.

2) Diminishing Regional Influence-Similar challenges are being observed in other parts of South Asia, including the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and the Indian Ocean islands, where India’s influence has diminished amidst rising competition between the United States and China.

Read more-India-Maldives Relations

What should be the way forward?

1) Maintain Strategic Autonomy-India’s Tibet policy requires careful recalibration considering changing geopolitical dynamics. While maintaining its historical stance of providing refuge to Tibetans, India must navigate the complex U.S.-China relationship and assert its own interests in the region.

2) Reevaluation of Tibet Policy– India needs to reassess its approach and maintain a balanced, independent Tibet policy that serves its strategic interests without compromising sovereignty or diplomatic relations.

Question for practice

What are the difficulties linked to the United States’ engagement with Indias immediate neighborhood?

GS PAPER - 3

Issues with India’s capital gains tax regime

Source: The post issues with India’s capital gains tax regime has been created, based on the article “Time to overhaul India’s capital gains tax regime” published in “Live mints” on 27th June 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 – Indian Economy – mobilization of resources.

Context: The article discusses the need to simplify India’s capital gains tax. It highlights the inconsistencies in tax rates across different asset classes and calls for a uniform, fair, and straightforward system to make investment planning easier and stimulate more investments.

For detailed information on concerns related to India’s income tax system read this article here

What are the issues with India’s capital gains tax regime?

  1. Complexity and Inconsistency: India’s capital gains tax rates differ by asset classes. This variation makes investment planning difficult.
  2. Short-term vs. Long-term Gains on Listed Shares: Gains on listed shares or equity mutual funds held for less than 12 months are taxed at 15%, while long-term gains (over 12 months) are taxed at 10% if annual gains exceed ₹1 lakh.
  3. Debt Mutual Funds: These are taxed at the marginal rate of income tax, regardless of the holding period.
  4. Real Estate: Gains on property sold within two years are taxed at the marginal rate; after two years, they are taxed at 20% (with inflation adjustment). Reinvesting the proceeds in another property can avoid this tax.
  5. Gold Investments: Physical gold gains are considered long-term only after three years, with different tax treatments for ETFs and sovereign gold bonds.

What should be done?

  1. Simplify the Regime: Simplifying India’s capital gains tax regime can make investment planning easier.
  2. Uniform Cut-off Period: Use a common cut-off period of one year for all short-term holdings. This ensures consistency and fairness.
  3. Standard Rates: Apply the same tax rates for short-term and long-term gains across all asset classes. This removes confusion and aligns investment incentives.
  4. Inflation Adjustment: Provide inflation adjustments for gains on holdings longer than five years to account for value changes over time.
  5. Consistency Across Assets: Ensure similar tax treatment for comparable assets. For example, treating gold ETFs the same as physical gold to avoid distortions in investment choices.

Question for practice:

Discuss the challenges with India’s current capital gains tax regime and propose potential solutions for reform.

Issues with India’s FTA

Source: The post Issues with India’s FTA has been created, based on the article “Prioritise deep trade agreements” published in “Business standard” on 27th June 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3– Economy

Context: The article discusses India’s need to reform its FTA strategy. It suggests focusing on deep trade agreements to integrate with global value chains. This involves reducing tariffs, improving manufacturing competitiveness, and negotiating investment, intellectual property, and environmental standards. The “Chintan Shivir” initiative, organized by the Ministry of Commerce, aims to address these issues by developing new strategies and standard operating procedures for future FTA negotiations.

For detailed information on India’s Foreign Trade Agreements (FTAs) read Article 1, Article 2

What is deep FTA?

  1. Deep FTA covers extensive regulatory policy issues including the liberalization of investment, protection of intellectual property rights, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues.
  2. These agreements extend beyond commitments made at the World Trade Organization and often include aspects not covered by the WTO, which helps anchor domestic producers in global value chains (GVCs).

What are the various Provisions in FTAs?

  1. Tariff Reductions: FTAs typically include substantial reductions or complete elimination of tariffs on traded goods between member countries to promote bilateral trade.
  2. Intellectual Property Rights (IPR): Deep FTAs often enhance protection beyond WTO commitments, safeguarding innovations and creative outputs which are crucial for competitive edges in global markets.
  3. Investment Liberalization: These provisions facilitate foreign direct investment by providing a clearer and more secure legal framework for investors, essential for integrating into global value chains.
  4. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Standards: FTAs increasingly include ESG issues, addressing sustainability and ethical practices within trade agreements to ensure comprehensive regulatory alignment.
  5. Service Sector Liberalization: Many FTAs also focus on liberalizing trade in services, expanding market access for service providers in partner countries.

What Are the Current Issues with FTA?

  1. Negotiation Delays: India’s FTA negotiations with the European Union and the UK have faced repeated delays, showing inefficiencies.
  2. High Tariffs and Trade Deficits: India’s high MFN tariffs, especially in manufacturing, create significant preferential margins (10-15%) in FTAs, leading to trade deficits favoring partner countries.
  3. Skepticism in Negotiations: Past experiences of increased trade deficits with FTA partners have led to a skeptical approach, affecting deeper engagements.
  4. Lack of Deep Provisions: India struggles to negotiate deep provisions like investment liberalization and ESG issues, limiting the effectiveness of its FTAs, as seen with the Australia-India agreement lacking an investment chapter.

What should be done?

  1. Focus on Deep FTAs: India should prioritize deep FTAs that integrate regulatory policies, ensuring alignment with global value chains and enhancing export competitiveness.
  2. Reduce MFN Tariffs: Aligning India’s MFN tariffs closer to the global average of 0-5% can reduce preferential margins and balance bilateral trade.
  3. Calibrate Preferential Tariffs: India should strategically set preferential tariffs in FTAs to benefit sectors that are dynamic in global value chains.
  4. Address Non-Trade Issues: Negotiating deeper provisions like investment liberalization and ESG standards is essential, moving away from viewing these areas as non-trade issues to remain competitive globally.

Question for practice:

Examine why India should prioritize negotiating deep FTAs over shallow FTAs, considering their potential impact on integrating into global value chains and enhancing export competitiveness.

India’s persistent water crises and how climate change could harm its economy

Source: The post India’s persistent water crises and how climate change could harm its economy has been created, based on the article “Moody’s warning and why India must pay heed” published in “Indian express” on 27th June 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3– environment-conservation

Context: The article discusses India’s persistent water crises and how climate change could harm its economy. It highlights water security as crucial for economic growth. Moody’s warns of potential disruptions in agriculture and industry due to water shortages, urging better water management practices.

For detailed information on Water Crisis in India read this article here

What is the current state of water availability?

  1. Current Water Availability: India’s per capita water availability is currently 1,486 cubic meters, significantly below the safe threshold of 1,700 cubic meters set by the Ministry of Water Resources.
  2. Projected Decline: It is projected to decrease further to below 1,400 cubic meters by 2030.

How does water scarcity affect India’s economic growth?

  1. Disruption in Agriculture and Industry: Moody’s indicates that a lack of water could disrupt operations in farms and factories, directly affecting food production and manufacturing sectors.
  2. Economic Impact: The potential rise in food prices due to disruptions in agricultural productivity could decrease real incomes, as noted by Moody’s, impacting economic well-being broadly.
  3. Vulnerable Industries: Industries such as coal-fired power generation and steel production are highly vulnerable to water shortages, which could hamper their operations and output.
  4. Threats from Climate Change: With forecasts of more intense heatwaves, the demand for water is expected to increase, further stressing the already critical water supply situation and impacting economic stability.

What government initiatives exist for water conservation?

  1. The Jal Shakti Abhiyan, launched by the Ministry of Water Resources in 2019, focuses on rainwater harvesting and water conservation.
    For more information on Jal Shakti Abhiyan read this article here
  2. Major cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai have laws mandating rainwater use, but enforcement is lax, and there is no comprehensive data on buildings equipped with water-harvesting structures.

What factors are impacting water demand in India?

  1. Population Growth: India’s urban population is expected to swell by over 270 million in the next 20 years, increasing competition for water between businesses and households.
  2. Industrial Expansion: The projected increase in industries, such as those generating 70% of India’s future electricity from plants not yet built, raises water demand significantly.
  3. Inadequate Conservation Measures: Existing laws on rainwater harvesting in major cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai are poorly enforced, leading to underutilization of potential water sources.
  4. Climate Change: Frequent heatwaves increase water usage for cooling and agriculture, exacerbating the demand pressures on already scarce water resources.

What should be done?

  1. Promote Water-Saving Technologies: Adopt technologies such as dry cooling and non-freshwater cooling in new power plants to reduce the dependency on freshwater resources.
  2. Enhance Water Pricing: Adjust water pricing mechanisms to reflect the true cost of water, encouraging more responsible usage and helping to preserve critical groundwater supplies.

Question for practice:

Examine how water scarcity in India impacts the country’s economic growth and what initiatives are being taken to address this issue.

India’s Rooftop Solar Expansion and Challenges Ahead

Source-This post on India’s Rooftop Solar (RTS) Programme has been created based on the article “How well is India tapping its rooftop solar potential?” published in “The Hindu” on 27 June 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-3- Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.

Context– India added 2.99 GW of rooftop solar (RTS) capacity in 2023-2024, marking its highest annual growth. As of March 31, India’s total RTS capacity stood at 11.87 GW. The article highlights that to meet India’s increasing energy demands, it must intensify efforts to further expand its RTS potential.

India’s total RTS potential is around 796 GW. To achieve its broader goal of installing 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, with a solar component of 280 GW, RTS alone needs to contribute about 100 GW by 2030.

What is the RTS Programme?

India launched the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission in January 2010 with the goal of achieving 20 GW of solar energy, including rooftop solar (RTS), across three phases: 2010-2013, 2013-2017, and 2017-2022.

In 2015, this target was revised to 100 GW by 2022, including a 40 GW RTS component, with annual targets set for each state and union territory. As of December 2022, India had installed 7.5 GW of RTS capacity and extended the deadline for the 40 GW target to 2026.

What is the State-wise Performance?

1) Best Performing States-

A) Gujarat: 3,456 MW –This is due to quick approvals, numerous installers and high consumer awareness.

B) Maharashtra: 2,072 MW-This is due to robust solar policies, conducive regulatory and environment.

C) Rajasthan: It has the highest potential for rooftop solar (RTS) in India, with 1,154 MW capacity, aided by its vast land area and ample solar radiation. Efforts to simplify approvals, offer financial incentives, and promotion of RTS through public-private partnerships have driven this growth.

2) Moderate performers-Kerala: 675 MW, Tamil Nadu: 599 MW, Karnataka: 594 MW

3) Underperforming states: -Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand

What is PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojna?

Read more- Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana

What are some of the challenges?

Fully realizing the potential of RTS systems faces challenges including bureaucratic hurdles, inadequate infrastructure, and limited public awareness

What should be the way forward?

1) Awareness-It is important to create awareness to engage consumers.

2) Financial Feasibility of RTS Systems for Households – Rooftop Solar (RTS) systems need to be financially feasible for households. There is a requirement for several affordable financing alternatives apart from government subsidies.

3) Research and Development-Investing in research and development for solar technology, energy storage solutions, and smart grid infrastructure is important. This investment can lower expenses, boost performance, and enhance the dependability of RTS systems.

4) Skilled Workforce-Initiatives such as vocational training programs, like the ‘Suryamitra’ solar PV technician program initiated in 2015 should be promoted to develop a skilled workforce.

5) Modernizing Regulatory Framework-It is necessary to revise and modernize net-metering regulations, grid-integration standards, and building codes. These updates will address new challenges and facilitate the seamless implementation of rooftop solar (RTS) systems.

Question for practice

What is the Rooftop Solar (RTS) Programme? How can its effectiveness be enhanced through proactive measures?

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Impact of prolonged exposure to pollutants from coal mining

Source– This post on the Impact of prolonged exposure to pollutants from coal mining has been created based on the article “Prolonged exposure to coal mining causes respiratory, skin diseases in workers: study” published in “The Hindu” on 27 June 2024.

Why in the news?

A survey of 1,200 households conducted by the National Foundation for India reveals that prolonged exposure to pollutants from coal mining has caused widespread respiratory and skin diseases among mine workers and residents in six Indian districts where coal extraction is a major occupation.

Findings of the study

Prolonged exposure to coal mining
Source: The Hindu

1. Prolonged exposure to pollutants from coal mining has led to widespread respiratory and skin diseases among mine workers and residents in six districts.

2. The affected districts are Koriya and Raigarh (Chhattisgarh), Dhanbad and Ramgarh (Jharkhand), and Angul and Jajpur (Odisha).

3. 65% of surveyed participants reported health issues like chronic bronchitis, asthma, eczema, dermatitis, and fungal infections.

4. Medical Expenses:

i) Monthly medical bills per household ranged from ₹300 to ₹1,000.

ii) Average annual hospitalization expenses in Dhanbad were the highest at ₹28,461 per household.

5. Vulnerability:

i) Residents closer to coal mines are more vulnerable to health issues.

ii) Dhanbad and Ramgarh reported higher incidences of lung and skin diseases due to more people living near mines.

6. Economic Impact and Transition: The study focused on the ‘just transition‘ from coal mining jobs. Transitioning away from coal is expected to cause significant job losses and economic downturns in coal-dependent regions.

7. Social and economic disparities were noted, with varying income levels and irregular wage patterns. Dhanbad and Koriya rely solely on coal production, reported lower incomes compared to diversified industrial districts like Angul.

8. Recent trends show a shift, with renewable energy accounting for 71.5% of new power generation capacity added in the first quarter of the year, while coal’s share dropped below 50% for the first time since the 1960s.

UPSC Syllabus: Indian Economy

Carbon tax in Denmark

Source– This post on Carbon tax in Denmark has been created based on the article “Flatulent cows and pigs will face a carbon tax in Denmark, a world first” published in “The Hindu” on 26 June 2024.

Why in the news?

Denmark will impose a tax on livestock farmers for the greenhouse gases emitted by their cows, sheep, and pigs.

About Carbon tax in Denmark

Flatulent cows and pigs will face a carbon tax in Denmark, a world first
Source: Indian Express

1. Denmark is planning to implement a carbon tax from 2030. Farmers in Denmark will have to pay a tax for the greenhouse gases their cows, sheep, and pigs emit.

2. This is a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at cutting methane emissions which is a powerful greenhouse gas that traps much more heat than carbon dioxide.

3. Denmark wants to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 70% from 1990 levels by 2030. Farmers will be taxed 300 kroner ($43) per ton of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2030.

4. This tax will rise to 750 kroner ($108) by 2035. However, farmers will get an income tax deduction, so the real cost will start at 120 kroner ($17.3) per ton in 2030, increasing to 300 kroner by 2035.

5. Methane levels have been rising quickly since 2020, with livestock responsible for about 32% of human-caused methane emissions.

6. Denmark aims to become climate neutral by 2045 and hopes other countries will follow its example.

UPSC Syllabus: Environment 

India’s Largest Leopard Safari

Source– This post on India’s Largest Leopard Safari has been created based on the article “India’s largest leopard safari opens at Bannerghatta” published in “The Hindu” on 27 June 2024.

Why in the news?

Recently, India’s largest leopard safari was inaugurated at the Bannerghatta Biological Park.

About India’s Largest Leopard Safari

India’s largest leopard safari
Source: The Hindu

1. South India’s first and the country’s largest leopard safari was inaugurated at Bannerghatta Biological Park by Karnataka.

2. Following Central Zoo Authority guidelines, a 20-hectare area has been fenced for the safari, and eight leopards have been released into this open forest area.

3. Bannerghatta is known for its healthy population of free-ranging leopards, making this safari an important addition.

4. The safari costing ₹4.5 crore, features undulating terrain with natural rocky outcrops and semi-deciduous forest. The area is secured with a vertical chain-link mesh with MS sheets.

5. The park often receives rescued leopard cubs due to increasing human-animal conflicts. These cubs will be raised and eventually moved to the leopard safari, allowing visitors to learn about the animals, understand the reasons for human-animal conflicts, and discover ways to protect them.

6. A four-acre section within the safari area has been set apart with a solar fence to help the leopards adjust to their new environment.

7. Several new facilities, including a renovated elephant weaning center, a baby care room at the butterfly park, a children’s play area, an entrance arch, electric buggies, and zoo installations were also inaugrated.

8. Skywalks are also being developed to connect the zoo and the butterfly park.

About Bannerghatta Biological Park

1. In 2004, BBBP was carved out of the Bannerghatta National Park (BNP) and placed under the Zoo Authority of Karnataka (ZAK). BNP was declared a national park in 1974.

2. BBBP consists of four divisions: the zoo, the safari, the butterfly park, and the rescue center.

3. The park also encompasses the valley of the Champakadhama hills.

UPSC Syllabus: Environment

Rhisotope project

Source– This post on Rhisotope project has been created based on the article “Radioactive implant for rhino horns to curb poaching” published in “The Hindu” on 26 June 2024.

Why in the news?

Recently, South African scientists injected radioactive material into live rhino horns under a new project to help stop poaching.

About ‘Rhisotope’ project

‘Rhisotope’ project
Source: The Hindu

1.’Rhisotope’ project has been started by South Africa to protect rhinos.

2. Objective:  To protect rhinos by making their horns detectable at international borders and rendering them useless for human consumption.

3. Twenty live rhinos are part of the pilot project. South Africa has the largest population of rhinos but also faces high poaching rates due to demand in Asia for traditional medicine.

4. A small hole is drilled in the horn. Radioisotope is inserted into the horn. 11,000 microdots are sprayed over the horn. Two tiny radioactive chips are placed in the horn, making it detectable at border posts.

5. The radioactive material makes the horn useless and essentially poisonous for human consumption.

6. Dehorning and poisoning the horns have failed to stop poachers. Radioactive Material lasts five years on the horn. This method is more cost-effective than dehorning every 18 months.

7. The final phase involves proper scientific and ethical aftercare for the rhinos. Follow-up blood samples will be taken to ensure the rhinos are protected.

8. Challenges: Despite government efforts, poaching remains a significant issue. Continued monitoring and adaptation of the project are necessary to ensure long-term success.

UPSC Syllabus: Environment

Indian Painted Frog

Source– This post on Indian Painted Frog has been created based on the article Rare Indian Painted Frog spotted at Telangana tiger reserve published in “The times of India” on 26 June 2024.

Why in the News

A rare Indian Painted Frog was recently sighted at Telangana’s Kawal Tiger Reserve. This marks a significant find outside its usual habitats.

About Indian Painted Frog

 Indian Painted Frog
Source: Siasat
Apects Description
Scientific name Uperodon taprobanicus
Family Microhylidae
Distribution 1. It is found in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, southern and eastern India, and Nepal up to an altitude of about 1300 metres.
2. In India, found in West Bengal, Odisha, Assam, Karnataka, Kerala, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh. Most common in the southern areas of the Western and Eastern Ghats.
Features 1. Adult length up to 75 millimetres (7.5 cm) from snout to vent, with females being slightly larger.
2. Notable for its striking appearance: smooth, rounded body with distinctive colouration, often including shades of brown with patches of brighter colours like orange or yellow.
Conservation Status IUCN Red List: Least Concern

About Kawal Tiger Reserve

Kawal Tiger Reserve
Source: Indiashine
Aspects Description
Location 1. It is located at Northeastern part of Telangana (Old Adilabad district).
2. It is Bordered by the Godavari River on one side and the Maharashtra border on the other
3. It is Part of the Deccan peninsula-central highlands.
River flowing through it Catchment for the rivers Godavari and Kadam, flowing towards the south of the sanctuary.
Neighboring protected areas It has connectivity to Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra) in the north and Indravati Tiger Reserve (Chhattisgarh) towards the north-eastern side.
Vegetation  Southern Tropical Dry Deciduous Forest
Flora 1. Extensive teak and bamboo presence.
2. 673 plant species recorded, including Anogeissus latifolia, Mitragyna parviflora, Terminalia crenulata, Terminalia arjuna, Boswellia serrata, etc.
Fauna Major wild animals: nilgai, chousinga, chinkara, black buck, sambar, spotted deer, wild dog, wolf, jackal, fox, tiger, leopard, and jungle cat.

UPSC Syllabus: Environment

African Swine Fever (ASF)

Source– This post on African Swine Fever (ASF) has been created based on the article  “3,350 pigs killed by African Swine Fever disease mizoram aizwal animal husbandry veterinary” published in “zeebiz” on 26 June 2024.

Why in the news?

Officials recently reported that the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak in Mizoram has killed over 3,350 pigs since February.

About African Swine Fever (ASF)

Aspects Description
About The ASF virus is a large, enveloped, double-stranded DNA virus, and it is the sole member of the genus Asfivirus within the family Asfarviridae.
Symptoms 1. The clinical symptoms of ASF can closely resemble those of classical swine fever.
2. Infected pigs typically exhibit fever, weakness, lack of appetite, inflamed eye mucous membranes, red skin, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting.
Transmission 1. ASF can be spread through direct contact with infected animals.
2. Indirect transmission can occur through the ingestion of products from infected animals or contact with contaminated clothing, vehicles, or equipment.
3. In regions where infectious soft ticks are present, bites from these ticks can also transmit the virus.
4. The ASF virus is capable of surviving for extended periods in pork and pork meat products.
Mortality African Swine Fever (ASF) is a highly contagious viral disease that affects both domestic and wild pigs, with a mortality rate that can reach 100%.
Spread 1. The virus is endemic to sub-Saharan Africa but has spread to many other regions of the world, including Asia and Europe.
2. In India, ASF was first confirmed in the states of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam in February-March 2020.
Impact 1. ASF does not pose a danger to human health. Consuming meat or other products from pigs does not present any food safety risks for humans.
2. ASF has devastating effects on pig populations and the farming economy, leading to significant economic losses.
Prevention

There is currently no cure or approved vaccine for ASF. The only effective method to prevent the spread of the infection is by culling the affected animals.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology

Leader of Opposition (LoP) Post in Lok Sabha

Source– This post on Leader of Opposition (LoP) Post in Lok Sabha has been created based on the article “Why a Leader of Opposition post after 10 years, and why it matters” published in “Indian Express” on 27 June 2024.

Why in the news?

After 10 years, the Lok Sabha will have a Leader of the Opposition. Congress party won 99 seats in the recent general elections.

About Leader of Opposition (LoP) Post in Lok Sabha

1. The Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha is akin to a shadow Prime Minister. The post was established by the Salary and Allowances of Leaders of Opposition in Parliament Act, 1977.

2. Importance of the LoP:

i) He/she acts as the main voice of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha.

ii) He/ she is ready to take over if the current government resigns or is defeated.

iii) He/she helps to facilitate the smooth functioning of the House by holding the government accountable.

3. Appointment Criteria: The LoP is the leader of the largest opposition party with the greatest numerical strength in the Lok Sabha. Traditionally, the party must have at least one-tenth of the total seats in the Lok Sabha.

4. Duties and Responsibilities:

i) Serves on high-powered committees for key appointments (e.g., CBI Director, Chief Information Commissioner).

ii) Sits in the front row in the House and during ceremonial occasions.

iii)  Engages in debates, ensuring the government is held accountable.

iv) Strengthens the Opposition’s position in Parliament.

v) Reinforces internal party support and accountability.

5. Impact on Governance: The LoP plays a crucial role in maintaining checks and balances within the parliamentary system. This also enhances the democratic process by providing a structured platform for opposition.

6. After 10 years, Congress secured 99 seats, enabling the appointment of Rahul Gandhi as the LoP. Before Rahul Gandhi, the last LoP was Sushma Swaraj (2009-2014). Other notable leaders who have held the post include L.K. Advani, Sonia Gandhi, Sharad Pawar, and Rajiv Gandhi.

UPSC Syllabus: Polity and nation

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