9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 28^th October, 2024

Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 2

Challenges in adopting electric buses in India

Source: The post challenges in adopting electric buses in India has been created, based on the article “The private sector holds the key to India’s e-bus push” published in “The Hindu” on 28th October 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2- Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

Context: The article discusses India’s new PM E-DRIVE scheme, which funds electric buses. It highlights concerns over private bus operators being excluded from subsidies. It also mentions challenges like financing, charging infrastructure, and suggests innovative models like Battery-as-a-Service to promote private electric bus adoption.

What is the PM E-DRIVE Scheme?

1. The PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) scheme aims to boost electric vehicle use in India.
2. It provides ₹4,391 crore for subsidies to help buy 14,028 electric buses in nine cities, focusing on strengthening public transport’s shift to electric vehicles (EVs).
3. Private bus operators are not included in the PM E-DRIVE scheme or other major national subsidy programs.
4. This exclusion raises concerns about scaling electric mobility beyond state-run buses, especially since private buses make up 93% of India’s total bus fleet.

For detailed information on PM E-DRIVE Scheme read this article here

What Are the Challenges in Adopting Electric Buses?

1. The International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) identifies financing as a major hurdle for private operators due to high upfront costs and uncertainties like battery life.
2. Despite electric buses being potentially more profitable over their service life, high interest rates, loan costs and low resale value make them less viable initially.
3. Charging infrastructure is another challenge, as most private operators cannot afford the high costs of land for charging stations.

For detailed information on Adoption of EVs: Challenges and Solutions read this article here

What Should be Done?

1. Offer Financial Support: Provide interest subsidies, longer loan tenures, and credit guarantees to reduce financial risks, as suggested by the ICCT.
2. Expand Charging Infrastructure: Set up shared charging stations in cities and on key highways to support private operators managing smaller fleets, given high land and power costs.
3. Implement Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS): Adopt BaaS to separate battery ownership from vehicles, lowering costs. Models like battery swapping and usage-linked leasing, seen in China, Kenya, and through Macquarie’s Vertelo in India, could boost private electric bus adoption.

What Are the Potential Benefits?

1. Reduces Fuel Costs: Electric buses reduce fuel costs for intercity travel, which serves 22.8 crore daily passengers and covers 57% of total ridership.
2. Supports Sustainable Routes: Around 40% of intercity trips fall within 250-300 km, fitting electric buses’ single-charge range.
3. Offers Long-Term Savings: Despite high initial costs, electric buses can be more profitable over time compared to diesel.

Question for practice:

Examine the challenges and potential solutions for scaling the adoption of electric buses in India as highlighted by the PM E-DRIVE Scheme.

India’s biopharmaceutical and biosimilar industry

Source: The post India’s biopharmaceutical and biosimilar industry has been created, based on the article “Tweaks in drug formulations to extend copyrights is a public health challenge” published in “Indian Express” on 28th October 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3- changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth. And GS2-Governance– Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

Context: The article discusses India’s growing biopharmaceutical industry and the challenges of patent evergreening, which keeps drug prices high. It highlights efforts like the National Biopharma Mission to boost biosimilar production and calls for stronger patent opposition.

For detailed information on the rapid growth of the biopharmaceutical industry read this article here

What is the current status of India’s biopharmaceutical industry?

1. India’s biopharmaceutical industry is valued at $60 billion, ranking as one of the fastest-growing globally.
2. The country has improved in innovation, moving from 81st to 39th in the Global Innovation Index since 2015.
3. India is a leader in biosimilars, with 98 approved products, including those sold in the US; it was the first to approve a Hepatitis B biosimilar.

What are biopharmaceuticals and biosimilars?

1. Biopharmaceuticals are medicines derived from living cells, such as yeast or bacteria, unlike conventional drugs made from chemicals.
2. They are crucial in treating chronic illnesses like cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and autoimmune diseases.
3. Biosimilars are medicines made from living cells, similar to original biologic drugs. They offer the same safety and effectiveness as the original biologic.
4. India’s biosimilars market was valued at $349 million in 2022 and is projected to grow by 25.2% annually, reaching $2,108 million by 2030.

How is the Global Landscape on Biosimilar Patents?

1. In the US, 74% of new patents are associated with existing drugs, extending their monopoly period. Nearly 80% of top-selling drugs are protected by extended patents.
   2. In Europe, the approval process for biosimilars is simpler, especially in countries like Germany and the UK, leading to cost savings and wider access to medicines.

What incentives have been implemented to support India’s biopharmaceutical industry?

1. National Biopharma Mission (NBM): The $250 million NBM, co-funded by the World Bank, supports 150 organizations and 300 MSMEs. It has established 21 research facilities crucial for COVID-19 vaccine trials, boosting India’s biopharma industry.
2. Make in India Initiative: This initiative supports domestic manufacturing, including the biopharmaceutical sector.
3. Biopharma Product Development: NBM funding led to 18 successful products, benefiting India’s healthcare goals.

What are the challenges facing India’s biopharmaceutical industry?

1. Patent Evergreening: Multinational companies extend monopoly by making minor changes to drugs nearing patent expiry. Roche, for example, extended the patent exclusivity of trastuzumab (a biologic used to treat breast cancer) by introducing a subcutaneous version of the drug just as the original patent was nearing its expiration.
2. Market Access Limitations: India holds only 3% of the global biosimilars market due to barriers like patent extensions, limiting affordable options for patients.
3. Delayed Biosimilar Adoption: Unlike the EU, where biosimilars are widely accepted, Indian regulations need enhancement for quicker approval, as seen in Europe, where countries like Germany and the UK save costs with simpler approvals.
4. Regulatory Challenges: India’s robust patent laws, like Section 3(d) of the Patents Act, aim to curb evergreening, yet about 72% of granted pharmaceutical patents in India are for minor or secondary innovations, highlighting the need for more stringent patent scrutiny.

For detailed information on INDIAN PHARMACEUTICAL SECTOR CHALLENGES AND REFORMS read this article here

Question for practice:

Evaluate the current status, growth potential, and challenges facing India’s biopharmaceutical industry, particularly in the area of biosimilars.

Impacts of the SC ruling on alcohol regulation

Source: The post impacts of the SC ruling on alcohol regulation has been created, based on the article “Beyond intoxication: On alcohol regulation, judicial verdict” published in “The Hindu” on 28th October 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2- Governance- issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.

Context: The article discusses a Supreme Court ruling that allows States to regulate both potable and industrial alcohol, reinforcing federal principles. This limits Parliament’s control over “intoxicating liquors,” preserving State power in alcohol regulation. Justice Nagarathna dissented.

For detailed information on Supreme Court’s decision allowing Indian states to tax industrial alcohol read this article here

What did the Supreme Court rule regarding alcohol regulation?

1. The Supreme Court ruled that States can regulate both potable (drinkable) and industrial alcohol.
2. A nine-judge Bench clarified that Entry 8 in the State List includes all types of alcohol, including rectified spirit, extra neutral alcohol, and denatured alcohol.
3. This interpretation means States have control over the production, sale, and distribution of these alcohol types.

What are the impacts of this judgement?

1. Strengthening Federalism: By allowing States to regulate both potable and industrial alcohol, the ruling reinforces federalism, safeguarding State powers over alcohol regulation.
2. Limiting Central Control: Parliament lacks legislative competence over the entire industry of intoxicating liquor. This ruling restricts the Union’s reach, ensuring the States retain authority in alcohol matters.
3. Reaffirming State Authority on Economic Resources: Following a similar decision in July on mineral rights, the judgment preserves States’ legislative domain on local resources, protecting their autonomy in economically crucial sectors.
4. IDRA Exclusion: The Industries (Development and Regulation) Act (IDRA), 1951, listed “fermentation industries” for Union regulation, raising debate on State control over “industrial alcohol.” The Supreme Court’s judgment excludes intoxicating liquor, including industrial alcohol, from IDRA’s reach, clarifying that States retain regulatory power.

Question for practice:

Examine the impact of the Supreme Court’s ruling on state authority over the regulation of both potable and industrial alcohol.

GS PAPER - 3

Transforming India’s Soap Industry Through Sustainable Initiatives

Source: The post transforming India’s Soap Industry through sustainable initiatives has been created, based on the article “Sustainability science for FMCGs” published in “The Hindu” on 28th October 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 – Achievements of Indians in Science & Technology; Indigenization of Technology and Developing New Technology.

Context: This article discusses India’s initiatives to promote sustainable development through research and bio-based industries. It highlights reducing palm oil in soaps, using alternative materials, and regulatory changes for eco-friendly products, encouraging partnerships between academia and industry.

What Are India’s New Initiatives for Sustainable Development?

1. India has introduced the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) and the BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) policy to encourage research and develop sustainable bio-based industrial models.
2. These initiatives aim to transform chemical-based industries to more sustainable ones, supporting India’s commitment to climate action and sustainable development.

For detailed information on Anusandhan National Research Foundation read Article 1, Article 2

How Is the Soap Industry Impacting the Environment?

1. The global soap industry heavily relies on palm oil, which is mainly produced in Borneo, Sumatra, and the Malay Peninsula.
2. This production contributes to significant deforestation, biodiversity loss, and greenhouse gas emissions.
   3. About 90% of palm oil plantations are located in these regions, and palm oil satisfies 40% of the world’s vegetable oil demand.

What Are the Alternatives to Palm Oil in Soap Production?

1. Emerging technologies are exploring ways to replace or reduce palm oil in soap production.
2. Innovations include synthetic biotechnologies that can mimic the fatty acids in palm oil, which are essential for the soap’s structure and cleansing properties.
3. Alternatives like plant-based polysaccharides could potentially replace the structuring agents in soap, enhancing environmental sustainability.

How Is India Supporting Sustainable Palm Oil Production?

1. India’s National Mission on Edible Oils-Oil Palm aims to increase the oil palm production area to 10 lakh hectares and boost crude palm oil production to 11.20 lakh tonnes by 2025-26.
2. The mission emphasizes sustainable practices, including the policy of ‘No Deforestation, No Peat’, and supports smallholder farmers through regenerative agriculture practices.

What Regulatory Changes Are Needed?

1. Move Away from Fatty Material-Based Standards: Current soap grades rely on fatty content, misleading consumers and regulators to equate higher fatty material with better quality. Research suggests this doesn’t necessarily improve product quality.
2. Mandate Sustainability Labels: Introducing mandatory sustainability labeling would help consumers make informed, eco-friendly choices based on a product’s sourcing and production practices.
3. Support Bio-Based Alternatives: Regulatory standards should encourage using bio-based materials, like plant-based polysaccharides, to reduce the reliance on palm oil in soap production, promoting sustainability.

Question for practice purr

Evaluate how India’s new initiatives, such as the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) and the BioE3 policy, are supporting sustainable development and reducing environmental impacts in the soap industry.ilk

High vegetable inflation makes it hard for the RBI to lower interest rates

Source: The post high vegetable inflation makes it hard for the RBI to lower interest rates has been created, based on the article “TOP crops, price volatility and RBI” published in “Indian Express” on 28th October 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3-Indian Economy-Inflation

Context: The article explains that high vegetable inflation, especially from tomatoes, onions, and potatoes, makes it hard for the RBI to lower interest rates. Structural issues in agriculture, outdated food weights in inflation calculations, and poor supply chains worsen the problem.

For detailed information on India’s food inflation read this article here

Why is the RBI not reducing repo rates?

1. The RBI is hesitant to reduce repo rates due to high inflation, which remains above the comfortable level of 4%.
2. In September, Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation reached 5.5%, with food inflation climbing above 9.2%.
3. This is primarily due to rising vegetable prices, particularly tomatoes, onions, and potatoes (TOP), which have impacted the CPI significantly.

For detailed information on Factors influence the RBI’s decision on rate cuts read this article here

How does food inflation affect overall inflation?

1. Food inflation drives overall inflation due to outdated weights assigned to food in the CPI basket. 2. Food and beverages make up 45.9% of the CPI, with food alone accounting for 39%.
2. These weights, based on 2011-12 data, need updating to reflect current consumption. The 2022-23 survey suggests a 5-6 percentage point reduction, which could help better represent today’s spending patterns.

What factors are driving high vegetable prices?

1. Vegetable inflation reached 36% in September, contributing 42.8% to overall CPI inflation. The prices of tomatoes, onions, and potatoes surged dramatically, driven by:

Tomatoes: Price increases of 42.4% due to crop delays from heavy rains and white fly infestations in Karnataka, impacting key production areas.

Onions: Prices rose by 66.2%, with storage losses reported in Maharashtra and delayed crop arrivals due to rain.

Potatoes: Increased prices by 65.3%, as stored rabi crops began perishing in October.

2. Operation Greens, initiated in 2018 to stabilize prices of TOP vegetables, has been diluted to include all fruits and vegetables, losing its focus. This has led to ongoing supply disruptions and post-harvest losses, with potatoes facing 18-26% losses, onions 25%, and tomatoes 11.6%.

For detailed information on Extension of Operation Greens from TOP to Total read this article here

What should be done?

1. Short-term measures, such as the 40% export duty on onions, address immediate consumer concerns but don’t solve the root issue. For lasting stability, policies suggest processing surplus vegetables into products like tomato paste, onion flakes, and dehydrated potatoes to reduce wastage and boost income for farmers. Examples include Jain Irrigation’s onion dehydration efforts with farmers.
2. The RBI cannot manage food inflation through repo rates alone, as it lacks authority over agricultural policies. So there is a need for a dedicated agency to manage the supply and pricing of tomatoes, onions, and potatoes effectively.

Question for practice:

Discuss the impact of outdated CPI food weights and high vegetable prices on the RBI’s ability to reduce repo rates.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

India to Procure Additional C-295 Aircraft

Source: This post on India to Procure Additional C-295 Aircraft has been created based on the article “India to procure 15 more C-295 aircraft; 12 to be built at home” published in The Hindu on 28th October 2024.

Why in news?

India plans to procure 15 additional C-295 aircraft from Airbus. This expands on the existing order of 56 aircraft, of which 12 of the new aircraft will be manufactured in India by Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), while three will be delivered in fly-away condition. India to Procure Additional C-295 Aircraft

About C-295 Aircraft

1. C-295 Aircraft Specifications: The C-295 is a tactical airlift aircraft with a 9.5-tonne payload capacity, suitable for versatile air transport missions in all weather conditions, day and night.

2. Electronic Warfare Suite: All 56 aircraft will include an indigenously manufactured Electronic Warfare Suite, produced by Bharat Electronics Limited and Bharat Dynamics Limited, enhancing tactical resilience.

3. Local Production Milestones: The first six of the 40 domestically manufactured aircraft will feature 48% indigenous content, gradually increasing to 75% for the last 24 aircraft.

4. Component Manufacturing in India: Of the 14,000 parts in each aircraft, 13,000 will be produced in India, with structural parts sourced domestically by 37 identified companies, including 33 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

5. Technical Specifications of the C295:

Specification	Description
Capacity	The C295MW is capable of carrying 5-10 tonnes of cargo.
Speed	It reaches a maximum speed of 480 km/h.
Unique Features	i) Rear ramp door for rapid deployment and para-dropping of troops and cargo. ii) Short take-off and landing (STOL) ability, even on semi-prepared runways. iii) It has spacious 12.7-meter cabin and the longest in its class, with a 71-seat capacity. iv) It is operational in diverse Terrain Operation including: a) South America’s jungles and mountains (Brazil and Colombia). b) Middle Eastern deserts (Algeria and Jordan). c) Cold climates in Europe (Poland and Finland). d) Military engagements in Chad, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
Additional Applications	i) Medical evacuation and casualty transport. ii) Special mission execution. iii) Disaster response and maritime patrol duties.

Strategic Importance

Replacement for Legacy Aircraft: The C-295 fleet will replace the aging HS-748 Avro aircraft currently in service with the Indian Air Force (IAF).

Domestic Manufacturing Facilities: The approval for the main component assembly facility in Hyderabad was granted in February 2024, highlighting the growth of India’s aerospace and defense infrastructure.

Employment and Skill Development

Job Creation: The project is projected to generate approximately 600 highly skilled direct jobs, over 3,000 indirect jobs, and an additional 3,000 medium-skill opportunities.

Skill Transfer and Workforce Development: Airbus’s production processes will transfer to India, with the initial indigenization level set at 78% for the first five aircraft, rising to 96% for the remaining 35 aircraft.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology (Defence)

Carbon markets and its significance

Source: This post on Carbon markets and its significance has been created based on the article ” What are carbon markets and how do they operate? “ published in The Hindu on 28th October 2024.

Why in news?

The Energy Conservation (Amendment) Bill 2022 enables the Government to create carbon markets in India and implement a carbon credit trading scheme.

About Carbon markets

1. Carbon markets are a pricing mechanism for carbon emissions, where carbon credits or allowances can be traded.

2. Paris Agreement Article 6 allows countries to use international carbon markets to help achieve their NDCs.

3. Purpose of Carbon Markets: Carbon Credits are a tradable permit that represents the removal, reduction, or sequestration of one tonne of carbon dioxide.

4. Carbon Allowances/Caps are set by governments based on emission reduction targets, limiting the allowable emissions for companies or sectors.

5. Types of Carbon Markets

Classification	Voluntary Markets	Compliance Markets
Participants	Emitters such as corporations or individuals buy credits to offset emissions.	Established by governments at national, regional, or international levels, these markets are officially regulated.
Function	Credits come from projects like afforestation, which reduce atmospheric CO₂.	Cap-and-Trade sets a cap on emissions in specific sectors, with permits issued based on these limits. Companies exceeding limits must buy additional permits
Certification	Credits are verified by private firms and can be traded on registries.
Example	Airlines may buy credits to offset flight emissions.	European Union (EU) Emissions Trading System (ETS): A cap-and-trade system launched in 2005, covering sectors like power, manufacturing, and waste. Compliance markets incentivize cleaner energy and technology adoption.

Advantages of Carbon Markets

1. Cost Efficiency: World Bank estimates carbon trading could reduce the cost of NDCs by over half, potentially saving $250 billion by 2030.

2. Global Expansion: Several national and regional markets exist worldwide, including in China, North America, and Japan.

3. Market Growth: The global carbon market value increased significantly, with the EU’s ETS accounting for 90% of the value.

Challenges of Carbon Markets

1. Quality and Authenticity: Concerns about the quality and real impact of credits generated by climate projects.

2. Greenwashing Risks: Companies may rely on offsets rather than actively reducing emissions or adopting clean technologies.

3. Sector Inclusion Issues: High-emission sectors in trading schemes might not automatically contribute to climate goals and can sometimes increase emissions.

Read more: The Energy Conservation (Amendment) Bill 2022

UPSC Syllabus: Environment

Livestock Census and its purpose

Source: This post on Livestock Census and its purpose has been created based on the article “What is the livestock census and why is it conducted?” published in Indian Express on 28th October 2024.

Why in news?

Recently, Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying launched the 21st Livestock Census in New Delhi.

About the Livestock Census

1. The Livestock Census is a large-scale survey conducted every five years to record the count and demographics of domesticated, stray, and poultry animals across India.

2. It was initiated in 1919. The census has reached its 21st edition, with data collection scheduled between October 2024 and February 2025.

Objectives of the Livestock Census

1. Economic Insight: The census data will help measure the Gross Value Added (GVA) of the livestock sector, which contributes around 4.7% to the national GVA and about 30% to the agricultural sector’s GVA.

2. Policy Development: Insights from the census support the development and refinement of policies related to animal husbandry and sustainable growth of India’s livestock sector.

3. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): The census provides crucial data for tracking UN SDGs, particularly Goal 2 (Zero Hunger) that contributes to food and nutrition security and Target 2.5 which aims to maintain genetic diversity within food production.

Scope of the 21st Livestock Census

1. Enumerator Task Force: About 87,000 enumerators will cover approximately 30 crore households and establishments, including residential areas, gaushalas (cattle shelters), dairy farms, poultry farms, veterinary institutions, and defense establishments.

2. Animal Categories: The census will account for 16 animal species, such as: Cattle, buffalo, mithun, yak, sheep, goats, pigs, camels, horses, ponies, mules, donkeys, dogs, rabbits, and elephants.

Poultry types including fowl, chicken, duck, turkey, geese, quail, ostrich, and emu.

3. Breed Information: Information on 219 indigenous animal breeds, as recognized by ICAR-NBAGR, will be gathered.

New Features in the 21st Livestock Census

1. Digital Collection: Data collection will be digital, utilizing a mobile app, a digital dashboard for monitoring, geolocation data capture, and software for report generation.

2. Enhanced Data Points:

i) Pastoral Data: First-time data on pastoral animals and pastoralists, including their socioeconomic status and livestock holdings.

ii) Income Source: Detailed information on households with livestock as a primary income source.

iii) Stray Animal Details: Inclusion of gender data for stray cattle.

Key Findings from the 2019 Livestock Census

1. Total Livestock Population: 535.78 million animals.

2. Major Populations:

Animals	Population
Cattle	192.9 million
Goats	148.88 million
Buffaloes	109.85 million
Sheep	74.26 million
Pigs	9.06 million
Other animals	0.23% of the total livestock population

UPSC Syllabus: Indian Economy 

Tardigrade Explaination

Source: This post on Tardigrade Explaination has been created based on the article “Why ‘protected’ areas are seeing faster biodiversity decline” published in Indian Express on 26th October 2024.

Why in news?

Researchers have identified genetic mechanisms in a newly discovered species of tardigrade (Hypsibius henanensis) which enable it to withstand high levels of radiation.

These mechanisms protect and repair the microscopic animals’ DNA, making it a promising area of study for applications in space travel, nuclear pollution cleanup, and cancer treatment.

Key Findings

1. Discovery of Hypsibius henanensis: A new species of tardigrade was discovered from moss samples collected in Funiu Mountain, Henan province, China. This species, also known as the water bear, has 14,701 genes, of which 30% are unique to tardigrades.

2. Radiation Resistance Mechanisms

i) DNA Repair Genes: Researchers identified 2,801 genes associated with DNA repair. Specifically, three key mechanisms were found that aid in radiation resistance:

ii) Rapid DNA Repair: The protein TRID1 is utilized to swiftly repair double-strand breaks in DNA caused by radiation.

iii) Mitochondrial Proteins: Exposure to radiation activates a gene that produces proteins essential for mitochondrial synthesis, which also assist in DNA repair.

iv) Antioxidant Pigments (Betalains): This species produces betalains, antioxidant pigments that neutralize reactive chemicals formed inside cells due to radiation.

3. Potential Applications

i) Space Exploration: Insights from these mechanisms could help in developing protective measures against radiation for astronauts.

ii) Nuclear Cleanup: The same principles could assist in reducing radiation damage in environments affected by nuclear waste.

iii) Cancer Treatment: Betalains derived from Hypsibius henanensis were tested on human cells, showing improved survival rates post-radiation exposure, which could benefit patients undergoing radiation therapy.

4. Future Implications: This study opens possibilities for using tardigrade mechanisms to enhance stress tolerance in human cells, potentially advancing treatments for radiation exposure and offering protective measures for high-radiation environments.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology 

Great Eared Nightjar

Source: This post on Great Eared Nightjar has been created based on the article ” Is it a bird or a baby dragon? All about the mysterious creature” published in Times of India on 28th October 2024.

Why in news?

Nature lovers and bird enthusiasts alike have become fascinated by the Great Eared Nightjar (Lyncornis macrotis) due to its unique appearance and unusual behavior.

About Great Eared Nightjar

Aspects	Description
About	1. The Great Eared Nightjar is scientifically known as Lyncornis macrotis. 2. It is native to the dense forests of Southeast Asia, including regions like Thailand, India, and the Malay Peninsula. 3. It has unique, dragon-like appearance and nocturnal behavior.
Features	1. The Great Eared Nightjar is often compared to mythical dragons due to its remarkable appearance, especially when perched. 2. It has large, forward-facing eyes set in a prominent head, giving it a striking look. 3. The intricate patterning of brown, black, and gray feathers allows it to blend seamlessly into its surroundings, providing excellent camouflage. 4. Its long, pointed wings are accentuated with tufted feathers around the head, which resemble “ears” and further contribute to its mythical, dragon-like impression. 5. Its feathers are structured to enable silent flight, allowing it to approach prey without detection and to escape potential threats with minimal noise.
Distribution	1. This species is found in thick forests, woodlands, and mangroves across Southeast Asia, including parts of India, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, and Indonesia. 2. The Great Eared Nightjar prefers to roost on the ground or low branches, which enhances its natural camouflage.
Diet	1. The Great Eared Nightjar’s diet consists primarily of insects, including moths, beetles, and other nocturnal insects. 2. It can efficiently capture prey in mid-flight equipped with a large mouth.
Breeding	The Great Eared Nightjar lays its eggs directly on the ground instead of building a nest in trees.
Conservation Status and Threats	1. The Great Eared Nightjar is currently classified as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). 2. Habitat loss due to deforestation and human activity poses a significant threat to its future, despite its current stable status.

UPSC Syllabus: Species in news 

Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary

Source: This post on Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary has been created based on the article “High Court tells authorities to shift Delhi’s monkeys to Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary “ published in The Hindu on 28th October 2024.

Why in news?

Recently, the Delhi High Court ordered local authorities to prioritize relocating all monkeys from the Capital to the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary.

About Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary

 

Aspects	Description
About	1. The Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located on the southern edge of Delhi and northern part of Haryana, covering parts of the Aravalli Hills. It covers an area of 32 sq kms. 2. It is the only protected area representing the northeastern, rolling outliers as a landform of the country’s oldest hill ranges, the Aravallis.
Climate	The climate of the sanctuary is characterized by extreme summer heat alternating with great winter cold.
Vegetation	The vegetation consists mainly of open-canopied, thorny scrub with xerophytic adaptations like thorny appendages and waxy, succulent, or tomentose leaves.
Flora	1. It include Dhau (Anogeissus pendula), Kumtha (Senegalia senegal), and Palash (Butea monosperma) forests, as well as grasslands on slopes and open areas. 2. Prosopis juliflora, along with invasive species like Lantana camara and Parthenium hysterophorus, dominates degraded areas.
Fauna	1. It includes 25 mammal species (e.g., Leopard, Striped Hyena), 250 bird species, including critically endangered and vulnerable species. 2. It also includes 28 raptor species (14 protected under India’s Wildlife Protection Act), 24 reptile species, 86 butterfly species, and 15 dragonfly species. 3. It is home to Golden Jackals, Striped Hyenas, Indian Crested Porcupines, Civets, Jungle Cats, Snakes, Monitor Lizards, Mongooses, and more. 4. Notable birds including the rare Red-headed Vulture, Black Eagle, and Northern Goshawk can be seen here.

UPSC Syllabus: Environment