Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Arctic Region
Mains level: Distribution of resources; Arctic Region;
Why in the news?
The Indian government appears interested in capitalizing on seabed mining and resource exploitation in the Arctic
About Artice Region:
- The Arctic region is rich in energy resources, including oil, natural gas, and renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, hydro, geothermal, and tidal power.
- The Arctic covers an area of approximately 8 million square kilometers, with interests belonging to Denmark, Canada, Iceland, Finland, Russia, Norway, Sweden, and the United States
The reason behind the growing interest in the Arctic Region:
- Climate Change Concerns: India’s increased interest in the Arctic stems from scientific data revealing accelerated warming in the region.
- Trade Route Opportunities: India seeks to capitalize on the opening up of Arctic sea routes, particularly the Northern Sea Route, to enhance its trade efficiency.
- Geopolitical Considerations: India’s focus on the Arctic is also driven by geopolitical factors, including concerns over China’s expanding presence and Russia’s decisions regarding access to Arctic routes.
- Historical Engagement: India’s involvement in the Arctic dates back to 1920 with the signing of the Svalbard Treaty.
Indian Initiatives:
- Arctic Council: As an Observer in the Arctic Council, India actively participates in various working groups and expert meetings. India’s involvement in these discussions helps in understanding Arctic governance issues and contributes to the development of sustainable policies for the region.
- INS Himadri: In 2019, India launched its first scientific expedition to the Arctic with the INS Himadri, an ice-class research vessel. The expedition aimed to study climate change, oceanography, and marine biodiversity, furthering India’s expertise in polar research.
- PAME: India’s commitment to sustainable development in the Arctic is reflected in its engagement with Arctic Council initiatives like the ‘Protection of the Arctic Marine Environment’ (PAME).
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Way Forward – Potential for Collaboration:
- Green Energy and Clean Industries: India’s current policy emphasizes cooperation with Arctic countries, particularly Norway, in green energy and clean industries. This aligns with India’s goal of positioning itself as a responsible stakeholder in global environmental initiatives.
- Transformational Partnership: Collaboration with Norway could be transformative for India, offering opportunities for increased participation in Arctic Council working groups
- Scientific Research and Environmental Protection: A partnership with Norway is expected to focus on scientific research, climate, and environmental protection. These areas align with India’s Arctic Policy pillars, emphasizing the importance of addressing environmental challenges through research and cooperation.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Climate Change;
Mains level: Climate Change; CO2 emissions;
Why in the news?
Aviation accounts for 2.5% of global CO2 emissions. But it has contributed around 4% to global warming to date
Year-wise Global Aviation demand, Energy Efficiency, and CO2 emissions
Global Co2 emissions from aviation
The reason behind Aviation accounts for 2.5% of global CO2 emissions:
- CO2 Emissions: When jet fuel burns, it releases carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere, much like any other combustion process. CO2 as a greenhouse gas has contributed around 4% to global warming to date.
- Non-CO2 effects: In addition to CO2, aircraft emissions also include other substances like nitrogen oxides, soot, water vapor, and sulfate aerosols. These substances interact with the atmosphere in various ways and can have different climate impacts. For example:
- Contrails: These are the visible trails of condensed water vapor and ice crystals that form behind aircraft in certain atmospheric conditions. Contrails can contribute to the formation of cirrus clouds, which can have a warming effect on the climate.
- Induced cirrus cloud formation: Aircraft can also induce the formation of cirrus clouds through their emissions, further contributing to warming.
Initiatives taken by the Indian Government:
- India is a Party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), its Kyoto Protocol (KP) and the Paris Agreement (PA).
- As a Party to the UNFCCC, India periodically submits its National Communications (NCs) and Biennial Update Reports (BURs) to the UNFCCC which includes national Greenhouse Gas (GHG) inventory.
- The energy sector contributed 75%, Industrial Process and Product Use 8%, the agriculture sector 14%, and the waste sector contributed 3% of total greenhouse gas emissions in 2016.
- The Land Use Land-Use Change and Forestry (LULUCF) sector was the net sink and absorbed about 15% of the carbon dioxide in 2016.
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Way Forward:
- Transitioning to Alternative Fuels: Invest in Research and Development of sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs), such as biofuels, hydrogen, or synthetic fuels, which emit fewer CO2 emissions compared to conventional jet fuel.
- Improving Aircraft Efficiency: Encourage the adoption of more fuel-efficient aircraft and technologies, including advanced aerodynamics, lightweight materials, and efficient engines.
- Implementing Operational Improvements: Enhance air traffic management systems to optimize flight routes, reduce delays, and minimize fuel consumption during taxiing, takeoff, and landing.
Mains PYQs:
- Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference? (2021)
- Discuss in detail the photochemical smog emphasizing its formation, effects and mitigation. Explain the 1999 Gothenburg protocol. (2022)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Hydrocarbons;
Mains level: The extraction of Hydrocarbons;
Why in the news?
The geological processes, extraction methods, and environmental impact of hydrocarbon extraction.
BACK2BASICS
Where are Hydrocarbons located?
- Hydrocarbons originate from plant and animal fossils that were formed by the forces of temperature and weight over millennia.
- They are mostly found deep underground, in porous rock formations, such as sandstone, limestone, and shale. Hydrocarbons exist in Subterranean rock formations in various forms like natural gas, coal, crude oil, and petroleum, typically found in reservoirs.
- The primary source of hydrocarbons in underground rocks is kerogen, organic matter deposits originating from lakes, marine ecosystems, or terrestrial ecosystems.
- Different types of kerogen yield various hydrocarbon products such as waxy oils, oil and gas, light oils, gas, and coal.
- Petroleum geologists utilize tools and techniques from petroleum geology to evaluate these rocks, assessing factors like porosity and permeability.
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How Hydrocarbons are extracted?
The extraction of hydrocarbons, such as oil and gas, has several negative impacts on the environment:
- Damage to Marine Life and Ecosystems: The extraction process can lead to the release of toxic substances and chemicals, which can harm marine life and ecosystems. This can lead to the death of fish, birds, and other marine animals, as well as the destruction of habitats.
- Deforestation and Destruction of Flora: The search for hydrocarbon deposits often involves the clearing of large areas of land, which can lead to deforestation and the destruction of plant life. This can have a significant impact on local ecosystems and biodiversity.
- Water Pollution: The extraction process can lead to the contamination of groundwater and surface water.
- Destruction of Fertile Land: The extraction process can destroy fertile land, which can have serious consequences for agriculture and food production. This can lead to soil erosion, desertification, and the loss of biodiversity.
Renewable sources that can serve as alternatives for hydrocarbons include:
- Hydroelectricity: This is the most significant renewable energy source at 6% of the global total
- Solar Energy: Solar power is a promising renewable energy source that can be harnessed using solar panels to convert sunlight into electrical energy. The solar power development sector is the fastest-growing renewable energy sector in the U.S
- Wind Energy: Wind turbines can generate electricity from wind power, and this technology is becoming increasingly popular and efficient
- Biomass Energy: Biomass energy can be derived from organic materials such as wood, agricultural waste, and municipal solid waste.
- Geothermal Energy: Geothermal energy is generated and stored in the Earth’s crust. This energy source can be used for heating, cooling, and electricity generation
- Renewable Natural Gas (RNG): RNG is a pipeline-quality gas that can be utilized by utilities interchangeably with conventional natural gas. RNG can be produced from methane waste sources such as farm and landfills
Conclusion: Hydrocarbons, found in subterranean rock formations, are extracted using petroleum geology techniques. Extraction poses environmental risks like marine damage, deforestation, and water pollution. Renewable alternatives include hydroelectric, solar, wind, biomass, geothermal energy, and renewable natural gas.
Mains PYQ:
Q Do you think India will meet 50 percent of its energy needs from renewable energy by 2030? Justify your answer. How will the shift of subsidies from fossil fuels to renewables help achieve the above objective? Explain.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Passes related to Siachen Glacier
Mains level: Siachen Glacier is strategically important for India for several reasons Why in the News?
Why in the News?
April 13, 2024, marks the 40th anniversary of Operation Meghdoot, which was launched by the Indian Army to pre-empt Pakistan and occupy the Siachen Glacier in the Karakoram ranges.
The genesis of Operation Meghdoot
- Launched: April 13, 1984 (by the Indian Armed Forces);
- Aim: To seize control of the Siachen Glacier in Kashmir, marking the first assault in the world’s highest battlefield.
- It was a response to Pakistan’s Operation Ababeel.
- Indian troops, including the Kumaon Regiment and Ladakh Scouts, successfully gained control of critical peaks and passes like Sia La, Bilafond La, and Gyong La, along with the commanding heights of the Saltoro Ridge, giving India a strategic advantage in the region.
- Operation Meghdoot resulted in the first of its kind and the only army in the world to have deployed tanks and heavy ordnance at such high altitudes.
- The Siachen Glacier conflict arose due to a vague demarcation of territories in the Karachi Agreement of 1949, leading to both India and Pakistan claiming the barren heights and the glacier, which escalated tensions in the region.
Significance of Siachen Glacier:
- Preventing ingress from Pakistan and China: Siachen forms a hub between Shaksgam Valley, Karakoram Pass, and Aksai Chin, making it vital for India to prevent ingress not only from Pakistan but also from China.
- Maintaining the status quo: The Indian Army’s presence in the region has helped maintain the status quo and prevent any territorial changes that could compromise India’s security.
- Watershed and drainage: The Siachen Glacier acts as a watershed, with its melting waters being the main source of the Nubra River in the Indian region of Ladakh, which drains into the Shyok River and ultimately the Indus River, a major water source for Pakistan.
Recent developments on the Glacier
- Technological Advancements: The introduction of VSAT technology has revolutionized communication on the glacier, improving mobile and data connectivity for troops. This has enhanced real-time situational awareness and telemedicine capabilities.
- Improved Mobility and Logistics: The induction of Chinook heavy-lift helicopters, logistic drones, and All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) has significantly improved mobility across the glacier and the supply of essential provisions to remote posts, especially during winters. New logistics chains ensure the availability of fresh rations and vegetables for forward posts.
- Aircraft Support: Various aircraft from the Indian Air Force (IAF) operate in support of Operation Meghdoot, providing crucial support to troops in remote posts. Helicopters, including Chinook, remain a lifeline for troops.
- Enhanced Medical Facilities: Medical facilities in Partapur and Base Camp boast some of the best medical and surgical specialists in the country.
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Way forward:
- Continued Diplomatic Talks: India and Pakistan may continue to engage in diplomatic dialogues, potentially at higher levels, to discuss the demilitarization of Siachen and other related issues. These talks could aim to find common ground and address mutual concerns.
- Authentication of AGPL: India’s insistence on authenticating the Actual Ground Position Line (AGPL) as the first step towards demilitarization could remain a key sticking point. Efforts may be made to find a mutually acceptable way to verify and authenticate the AGPL.
- Involvement of Third Parties: Third-party mediation or involvement from international organizations could be explored to facilitate discussions and help build trust between India and Pakistan.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Exoatmospheric Interception, Iron Dome, Sling of David, Arrow
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
Israel successfully intercepted an Iranian missile outside Earth’s atmosphere using an Exoatmospheric kill vehicle.
Israeli Air-Defence Systems
Israel’s multi-layered air defence system, including Iron Dome, The Arrow, and David’s Sling, was activated in anticipation of the attack.
- IRON DOME: The short-range Iron Dome air defence system was built to intercept the kind of rockets fired by the Hamas in Gaza. Developed by state-owned Rafael Advanced Defense Systems with US backing, it became operational in 2011. Each truck-towed unit fires radar-guided missiles to blow up short-range threats like rockets, mortars and drones in mid-air.
- ARROW: The long-range Arrow-2 and Arrow-3 system, developed by Israel with an Iranian missile threat in mind, is designed to intercept ballistic missiles outside the earth’s atmosphere, using a detachable warhead that collides with the target. It operates at an altitude that allows for the safe dispersal of any non-conventional warheads.
- DAVID’S SLING: This mid-range system is designed to shoot down ballistic missiles fired from 100 km to 200 km away. Developed and manufactured jointly by Israel’s state-owned Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and the U.S. Raytheon Co, David’s Sling is also designed to intercept aircraft, drones and cruise missiles.
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What are Exoatmospheric Missiles?
- Exoatmospheric missiles, or anti-ballistic missiles (ABMs), operate beyond Earth’s atmosphere to intercept incoming ballistic missiles.
- They employ advanced sensors and guidance systems to detect, track, and destroy targets in space.
- Kinetic kill vehicles, like the Exoatmospheric Kill Vehicle (EKV), rely on high-speed collisions to neutralize threats.
- It travels at hypersonic speed.
Working Mechanism of Exoatmospheric Missiles:
- The EKV uses a solid rocket booster to propel itself into space.
- Advanced sensors and onboard computers identify and track incoming threats.
- Precise maneuvering allows the missile to navigate towards the target.
- Impact from a high-speed collision eliminates the threat without traditional warheads, enhancing speed and accuracy.
PYQ:
[2018] What is “Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)”, sometimes seen in the news?
(a) An Israeli radar system
(b) India’s indigenous anti-missile programme
(c) An American anti-missile system
(d) A defence collaboration between Japan and South Korea |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Shrinkflation
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
- As input prices turn inflationary, the FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) segment faces the spectre of shrinking packs, impacting consumer choices and industry dynamics.
What are FMCGs?
- Fast-moving consumer goods, also known as consumer packaged goods, are products that are sold quickly and at a relatively low cost.
- Examples include non-durable household goods such as packaged foods, beverages, toiletries, candies, cosmetics, over-the-counter drugs, dry goods, and other consumables.
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What is Shrinkflation?
- Shrinkflation is a business practice where companies reduce the size or quantity of a product while keeping its price the same.
Causes for Shrinkflation:
- Cost Management: It helps companies manage rising production costs, such as raw materials or labor, without sacrificing profitability.
- Market Competition: In competitive markets, companies may use shrinkflation to maintain their market share by keeping their prices competitive.
Effects of Shrinkflation:
- Consumer Perception: If consumers notice the change, it can lead to negative perceptions of the brand, loss of trust, and reduced customer loyalty.
- Accuracy of Inflation Measurement: Shrinkflation complicates accurate measures of inflation since the price remains constant while the quantity decreases.
- Limitations: Companies can only implement shrinkflation discreetly and for a limited number of times before consumers become aware and react negatively. Overuse can damage brand reputation.
PYQ:
[2015] With reference to inflation in India, which of the following statements is correct?
(a) Controlling the inflation in India is the responsibility of the Government of India only
(b) The Reserve Bank of India has no role in controlling the inflation
(c) Decreased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation
(d) Increased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Jiadhal River, Brahmaputra and its tributaries
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
- Climate Change is disrupting Jiadhal River’s (Dhemaji district, Assam) tranquil flow, leading to unprecedented shifts in its course and causing upheaval for residents.
About Jiadhal River:
- It flows through the districts of Darrang, Udalguri, and Baksa in the northeastern state of Assam.
- It is also known Kumotiya River after flowing from Gogamukh.
- Origin: From the Hills of Bhutan, flows through the Assam Himalayas before meandering through the plains of Assam. It is formed by the confluence of several smaller streams.
- Major tributaries: Kolong River and the Daokao River.
- It eventually joins the Brahmaputra River near the town of Nalbari.
- It is known as the ‘Sorrow of Dhemaji’ for the heavy damage caused by annual floods and erosion.
Factors leading to changes in the Jiadhal River’s Course
- Erosion: Flowing water gradually wears away the riverbanks and bed, causing the river to meander and change course.
- Sediment deposition: Accumulation of sediment can create new channels or alter the flow pattern of the river.
- Human activities: Dams, channelization, urbanization, deforestation, and mining can disrupt natural river processes, leading to changes in flow and morphology.
- Climate change: Changes in precipitation, temperature, and glacier melt affect river flow patterns and behavior.
- Tectonic activity: Uplift, subsidence, and faulting influence river topography and drainage patterns, leading to adjustments in course and behavior.
PYQ:
[2017] With reference to river Teesta, consider the following statements:
1. The source of river Teesta is the same as that of Brahmaputra but it flows through Sikkim.
2. River Rangeet originates in Sikkim and it is a tributary of river Teesta.
3. River Teesta falls into Bay of Bengal at the border of India and Bangladesh.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Exercise DUSTLIK
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
Indian Army contingent departed for the 5th edition of Exercise DUSTLIK in Uzbekistan.
Exercise DUSTLIK
- Exercise DUSTLIK is an annual event alternating between India and Uzbekistan.
- It is named after Dustlik, a town in the Jizzakh region of Uzbekistan.
- The first edition of the exercise was held in 2019 near Tashkent.
- Previous edition held in Pithoragarh, India, in February 2023.
Objectives and Focus Areas:
- Focus on physical fitness, joint planning, and tactical drills.
- Emphasis on special arms skills and multi-domain operations.
- Tactical drills include establishing command posts, intelligence centers, heliborne operations, and room intervention.
- Incorporation of combat support arms and services besides Infantry.
- Opportunity to share Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) of joint operations.
- Strengthening interoperability and camaraderie between soldiers of both nations.
India’s bilateral exercises with Central Asian Countries
| Country |
Exercise |
| Kazakhstan |
Ex PRABAL DOSTYK, Ex KAZIND |
| Kyrgyzstan |
Ex KHANJAR |
| Mongolia |
Ex NOMADIC ELEPHANT |
| Tajikistan |
Ex Farkhor |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Easement Rights, Indian Easements Act, 1882
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
- The Supreme Court observed that a claimant of an Easementary Right cannot claim an Easement by necessity if there exists an alternative way to access the property owned by the claimant, known as the ‘Dominant Heritage‘.
- The court referred to Section 13 of the Indian Easements Act, of 1882, which deals with easementary rights by necessity.
What is Easement Right?
- An Easement is a legal right to use someone else’s property for a specific purpose without possessing it.
- Essentially, it’s a permission or privilege granted by the owner of one property (the servient land) to someone else (the dominant land) to use the servient land in a particular way.
Legal backing for Easement Rights
- Section 13 of the Indian Easements Act, 1882, serves as the cornerstone in adjudicating easementary rights disputes.
- It mandates that such rights can only be claimed if no alternative access to the Dominant Heritage exists, providing clarity in legal proceedings.
- Understanding terms like ‘Dominant Heritage’ (represents the property for enjoyment) and ‘Servient Heritage‘ (property over which rights are sought) is crucial in comprehending easementary rights disputes.
Features of the Indian Easements Act, 1882:
- Definition of Easements: The law defines what an easement is and the different types, like rights of way (to pass through someone’s land), rights to light and air, and rights to use water.
- Acquisition of Easements: It explains how easements can be created. For example, by agreement between the parties or through long-time use.
- Rights and Liabilities: It outlines the rights and responsibilities of both the person who has the easement (the beneficiary) and the person who owns the land over which the easement exists (the servient owner). For instance, the beneficiary must not do anything to increase the burden of the easement, and the servient owner must not obstruct the use of the easement.
- Termination of Easements: It describes the circumstances under which an easement can come to an end. For example, if the purpose for which the easement was created ceases to exist, or if the beneficiary expressly gives up their right.
- Customary Easements: It recognizes certain easements that arise due to local customs or traditions.
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Back2Basics: Fundamental Rights vs. Legal Rights
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Fundamental Rights |
Legal Rights |
| Source |
Enshrined in the Indian Constitution, specifically Part III |
Derived from various sources such as Legislation, contracts, Judicial decisions, etc. |
| Enforcement |
Directly enforceable against the state through constitutional remedies like writ petitions under Article 32 |
Enforceable through the legal system, but may vary in enforceability depending on the nature of the right and available legal mechanisms |
| Scope |
Typically includes rights essential for the Protection of Individual Liberty, Equality, and dignity, such as the Right to Equality, Freedom of Speech, Right to Life and Personal Liberty, etc. |
Encompasses a wide range of rights recognized by law, including Property Rights, Contractual Rights, Tort Rights, Family Law Rights, Labor Rights, Consumer Rights, etc. |
| Nature |
Paramount and inviolable, subject to limited exceptions as prescribed by the Constitution |
Subject to limitations or restrictions imposed by law, and may be subject to changes or modifications through Legislative action or Judicial Interpretation |
| Examples |
Right to Equality, Right to Freedom of Speech, Right to Life and Personal Liberty, etc. |
Right to Property, Right to Contract, Right to sue for damages, Right to Vote, etc. |
PYQ:
[2018] What is the position of Right to Property in India?
(a) Legal right available to citizens only.
(b) Legal right available to Persons only.
(c) Fundamental Right available to citizens only
(d) Neither Fundamental Right nor Legal Right |
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