Explained | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Agriculture and related issues,Major Crops & Cropping Patterns,PDS, Buffer Stock & Food Security

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Agricultural subsidies; Policies and Programs by government;

Mains level: Issue of Subsidies in India; Policies and Programs by Government;

Why in the News?

Issues have been raised by the World Trade Organization (WTO) concerning Agricultural Subsidies in India. Major subsidies in India are on fertilizer, power, credit, output, seed, and export products.

What is Subsidy?

The term subsidy refers to financial assistance in the form of discounts or monetary grants by the Central government to public entities or private institutions.
The objective is to make the products offered by these institutions affordable for public consumption.
The subsidized products are necessary for the larger public good and are a means of supporting the community’s welfare.

Historical Background

Post-Independence Era (1947 onwards): The government introduced various subsidies to promote industrialization, agriculture, and social welfare, aiming to reduce poverty and achieve self-sufficiency in key sectors.
Green Revolution (1960s): During the 1960s and 1970s, Subsidies on fertilizers, seeds, and credit were provided to farmers to encourage the adoption of new agricultural technologies and boost food production.
Liberalization Reforms (1991): While liberalization led to a reduction in some subsidies and a shift towards market-oriented policies, the government continued to provide support to sectors deemed crucial for social welfare and economic development.

Types of Subsidies:

Food subsidy: The food subsidy’s main objective is to provide essential eatables to a large section of the population living below the poverty line in India.
- The major food items supplied to the BPL families (by PDS system) vary as per the region, it includes – Wheat, Rice, Sugar, Milk, Cooking oil, and more.
Education subsidy: The Central government extends the education subsidy to eligible students to pursue higher technical and professional education.
Export subsidy: To make exports attractive and lend support to the companies, the government offers export subsidies.
Fertilizer subsidy: The fertilizer is provided at a fixed MRP that is below the actual price; the government pays the difference between the actual coat and the MRP.

(Note: There are various types of subsidies but UPSC usually asks for Agriculture subsidies)

Subsidies in Agriculture:

Direct Subsidies:

Credit Subsidies: Subsidized credit programs offer farmers loans at lower interest rates or with relaxed repayment terms to finance agricultural activities, such as purchasing inputs, machinery, or land.
- Ex-The Government of India provides interest subvention of 2% and Prompt Repayment Incentive of 3% to the farmers, thus making the credit available at a very subsidized rate of 4% per annum as per Kisan Credit Card.
Direct Income Transfers: Governments provide direct cash transfers or income support schemes to farmers to supplement their incomes, improve their financial stability, and alleviate rural poverty. Ex-PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme under which support of Rs.6000/- per year

Indirect Subsidies

Fertilizer Subsidies: Governments often provide subsidies on fertilizers to reduce the cost burden on farmers and promote fertilizer use, which enhances crop productivity. Ex- the Union Budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 (FY25) allocated ₹1.64 trillion for fertilizer subsidy.
Seed Subsidies: Subsidies on quality seeds help farmers access improved varieties that are disease-resistant, drought-tolerant or have higher yields. Ex- the government provides a subsidy of Rs. 1000/- per quintal or 50% of the cost.
Water Subsidies: Subsidized irrigation infrastructure and water supply schemes aim to improve water availability for agricultural purposes, especially in regions facing water scarcity. Ex- Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana.
Minimum Support Prices (MSP): Governments guarantee a minimum price for certain crops to protect farmers from market price fluctuations and ensure stable income. Procurement agencies purchase crops from farmers at MSP, often for staples like wheat, rice, and pulses. Ex- the government of India sets the MSP twice a year for 24 commodities (23 crops + 1 sugarcane).
Crop Insurance Subsidies: Subsidies are offered on crop insurance premiums to encourage farmers to enroll in crop insurance schemes, which protect them against yield or revenue losses due to adverse weather, pests, or other risks. Ex- Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)
Subsidized Agricultural Machinery: Governments may subsidize the purchase of farm machinery, equipment, and tools to mechanize agricultural operations, increase efficiency, and reduce labor costs. Ex- Sub-mission On Agriculture Mechanization (SMAM scheme)

Present issues raised by the WTO:

Market Distortion: The WTO contends that agricultural subsidies have the potential to disrupt global markets. For instance, subsidies like India’s Minimum Support Price (MSP) may result in the undervaluation of Indian agricultural goods on the international stage.
Trade Barriers: Subsidies can create challenges for foreign producers without subsidies to compete effectively in markets where subsidized goods are sold.
Overproduction of certain crops: Subsidies can lead to overproduction of certain crops, which can further distort the market and lead to wastage.
Negative Environmental Impact: Overuse of fertilizers and water for irrigation, encouraged by subsidies, can lead to environmental degradation.
Inequity: The benefits of subsidies often go to larger farmers rather than small-scale farmers who need them the most.

Limitations Faced by Indian Agriculture:

Subsidies on few crops: Subsidies like MSP, which are applicable for only a few crops, have led to cereal-centric agriculture with distorted cropping patterns, as farmers tend to grow only those crops for which they are given subsidies.
Benefiting only wealthy Farmers: As per the Economic Survey 2018, wealthy farmers benefited over small farmers from the farm subsidies. Thus the objective of giving subsidies is not fulfilled. This is the case frequently witnessed in Punjab and Haryana, where affluent farmers enjoy taxpayer money.
Fiscal deficit: Also, the subsidies lead to a substantial financial deficit and burden on the financial exchequer.
Cause of pollution: Subsidies for agriculture can foster the overloading of croplands, which leads to erosion and compaction of topsoil, pollution from synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, and release of greenhouse gases, among other adverse effects.

Way Forward:

Diversification of Subsidies: Expand subsidy programs to cover a wider range of crops, including fruits, vegetables, pulses, and other diversified agricultural products, to promote crop diversification and mitigate the cereal-centric focus.
Targeted Subsidy Programs: Implement targeted subsidy schemes that prioritize support for small and marginalized farmers, ensuring that subsidies reach those who need them most and reducing the disproportionate benefit to wealthy farmers.
Price Stabilization Mechanisms: Develop price stabilization mechanisms beyond MSP, such as futures markets, crop insurance, and warehouse receipt systems, to mitigate price volatility and provide income security to farmers without distorting cropping patterns.

Prelims PYQ

In India, markets in agricultural products are regulated under the (UPSC IAS/2015)

a) Essential Commodities Act, 1955

b) Agricultural Produce Market Committee Act enacted by States

c) Agricultural Produce (Grading and Marking) Act, 1937

d) Food Products Order, 1956 and Meat and Food Products Order, 1973

Mains PYQ

Q How do subsidies affect the cropping pattern, crop diversity and economy of farmers? What is the significance of crop insurance, minimum support price and food processing for small and marginal farmers? (UPSC IAS/2017)

Q What are the different types of agriculture subsidies given to farmers at the national and at state levels? Critically analyse the agricultural subsidy regime with reference to the distortions created by it (UPSC IAS/2013)

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Global Geological And Climatic Events

PREMIUM – Travelling the Regions of South America

Prelims Only | | Mains Paper 1: Distribution Of Key Natural Resources Across The World,Geographical Features & Their Location

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Areas in South America;

Mains level: NA

Why in the News?

South America, known for its diverse landscapes and cultures, also harbors several disputed territories, each with its own historical, geopolitical, and economic significance. These disputes often arise from conflicting territorial claims, historical grievances, or resource-rich areas.

Diverse Landscapes of South America:

The Pacific Coastal Strip:
- Between the ocean and the Andes mountain Range.
- The coastline of South America is smooth and regular. At the river mouths, some inlets are used as harbors. The southwestern coast of the continent has fiords or deep inlets of the sea.

Andes Mountain Range:
- The Andes stretch through the entire continent, running in the north-south direction from the Isthmus of Panama to the Strait of Magellan. The second-highest mountain system in the world.
- Mount Aconcagua (an extinct volcano lies in Argentina)
- Mount Ojas del Salado is the highest active volcano in the world of Argentina.
- Part of seven countries: Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia, Peru, Chile, and Argentina.
- They form a chain of ranges and knots with enclosed intermontane plateaus namely in Ecuador and Bolivia.
- Being part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, there are many volcanoes and frequent earthquakes in this region. Mount Cotopaxi and Mount Chimborazo are active volcanic peaks, which is the highest peak in South America.

About the Amazon River:
- It is the world’s largest and second-longest (6,400 km) river in the world after the Nile.
- Its journey begins high in the Andes Mountains. The river then makes its way east through thousands of miles of rainforests and lowlands until it empties into the Atlantic Ocean on the northeastern coast of Brazil
- Its watershed spans the countries of Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, and Bolivia.
- It has more than 1,100 tributaries, which include the rivers like the Rio Negro, the Madeira River, and the Xingu River, etc.
- The Amazon Rainforest, which represents about half of the Earth’s remaining rainforest, also constitutes its single largest reserve of biological resources.
- It is sometimes referred to as the “lungs of the Earth” due to its role in regulating the planet’s oxygen and carbon cycles.

Disputed Areas in South America

	Countries Involved	Key Points	Geographical Features
Gulf of Venezuela	Colombia, Venezuela	Inlet of the Caribbean Sea is Disputed over islands such as Los Monjes Archipelago due to Fishing rights and potential oil reserves. Interpretation disputes regarding the 1941 Treaty of Delimitation Recent tensions over maritime confrontations and oil exploration activities.	Surrounded by coastal mountain ranges with waters fed by several rivers
Essequibo Region	Guyana, Venezuela	Covers two-thirds of Guyana’s territory Historical grievances claimed by Venezuela. Recent oil discoveries raising tensions; ICJ case filed by Guyana. Essequibo River flows through this region.	Diverse landscapes including rainforests, savannahs, and mountains with the Essequibo River
Atacama Desert	Peru, Chile	Extremely Arid desert region War of the Pacific led to Chile’s control Valuable mineral resources contribute to disputes Bilateral talks and arbitration proposals for settlement	Bordered by the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean with salt flats, sand dunes, and volcanic formations
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)	Argentina, UK	Sovereignty disputes since 1833 Economic interests include fisheries, tourism, and potential oil reserves Diplomatic efforts and UN resolutions for resolution	Consists of two main islands with rugged coastlines and low mountains
Darien Gap	Colombia, Panama	Dense jungle terrain separating North and South America Challenges in illegal immigration discussions Characterized by dense rainforests, swamps, and mountains	Part of the Darien National Park with dense rainforests, mangroves, and steep mountain slopes
Arroyo de la Invernada or Rincon de Artigas…	Brazil, Uruguay	Dispute over the Invernada River region near Masoller UN does not officially recognize the claim 237 km2 region with significant natural resources Efforts to resolve through bilateral talks and international mediation	Rolling hills, grasslands, and small rivers with the Invernada River
New River Triangle (Tigri Area)	Suriname, Guyana	Disputed region within the Guiana Highlands Conflicting claims over territory interpretation of historical treaties and boundaries	Dense rainforests, mountain ranges, and numerous rivers
Isla Brasilera/Ilha Brasileira	Brazil, Uruguay	Uruguay claims ownership of Isla Brasilera Strategically located near the tripoint with Argentina Efforts to resolve through diplomatic negotiations and legal arguments	Small island located in the Uruguay River with lush vegetation
Isla Suarez/Ilha de Guajara-mirim	Bolivia, Brazil	Located in the Rio Mamore as a border between Bolivia and Brazil Economically dependent on Guajara-Mirim, Brazil Treaty signed in 1958 maintains the status quo Challenges of border management in riverine environments	Riverine island characterized by tropical vegetation and wetlands
Southern Patagonian Ice Field	Argentina, Chile	Spanning parts of Argentina and Chile Border demarcation remains undefined in certain areas Bilateral efforts for resolution include scientific cooperation and mapping projects	Vast expanse of ice and snow covering rugged mountain ranges and deep valleys
Lithium Triangle	Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile	It is characterized by various *salt pans or salars, concentrated along the Atacama Desert and adjacent arid regions. The Salar de Atacama* in Chile boasts the highest lithium concentration (0.15% by weight) among all brine sources worldwide. Argentina boasts more than half of the world’s total lithium resources and holds the distinction of having the 2nd-largest lithium resources, the 3rd-largest lithium reserves, and the 4th-largest lithium production in the world. India’s KABIL (Khanij Bidesh India Ltd) has announced an investment of ₹211 crore ($25.712 million) over five years for exploration stage activities in five lithium blocks in the *Fiambala area* of Argentina.	Key reserves of Lithium include: Uyuni (Bolivia): This salt flat is not only the world’s largest salt flat but also contains significant lithium reserves. Atacama (Chile): Located in the Atacama Desert, Salar de Atacama is home to one of the largest lithium reserves globally. Hombre Muerto (Argentina): This salt flat in northwestern Argentina also hosts lithium extraction operations.

Note: Bolivia and Paraguay are land-locked countries in South America

PYQ:

[2013] “Climate is extreme, rainfall is scanty and the people used to be nomadic herders.”

The above statement best describes which of the following regions?

(a) African Savannah

(b) Central Asian Steppe

(d) Siberian Tundra

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Housing for all – PMAY, etc.

An overview of the PMAY-U scheme | Explained

Explained | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Governance, Transparency & Accountability, Citizens Charters,Government Scheme/Policies

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: NA

Mains level: Issues related to the PMAY scheme and the reason behind the failure of the PMAY Scheme

Why in the News?

As the current Union government completes two terms, one of its flagship programs was Housing For All (HfA) by 2022, both in urban and rural areas, planned under the PMAY (Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana) scheme in 2015.

About the PMAY scheme:

The declared objectives of the scheme included rehabilitation of slum dwellers with private developers’ participation; promotion of affordable housing for the weaker sections through Credit Linked Subsidy Schemes (CLSS); affordable housing in partnership with public and private sectors; and subsidy for Beneficiary-led Construction (BLC).

Issues related to the PMAY Scheme:

PMAY-U faltering Performance: The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U) initiative has been criticized for its faltering performance. Data from the PMAY dashboard suggests a shortfall of around 40 lakh houses from sanctioned and completed segments.
ISSR Failure: The in-situ slum redevelopment (ISSR) component, aimed at addressing the largest demand in cities, has been particularly criticized for its failure. Only a small number of houses have been sanctioned under ISSR, falling far short of expectations.
The large difference between achievement and need: Despite delivering 80 lakh homes, the PMAY-U program has only addressed about 25.15% of the housing shortage. Even if the remaining sanctioned houses are constructed by the end of 2024, it would only address about 37% of the real need, leaving almost 2.4 crore households without adequate housing.
Not fulfilling the promise as per Spending: The housing program, which received significant budgetary allocation (over $29 billion in the last five years), has not been able to fulfill its promise of “Housing for All.” Despite the focus and financial support, the goal remains unfulfilled.

The reason behind the failure of the PMAY Scheme

Challenges in Slum Rehabilitation: Despite efforts, some projects aimed at slum rehabilitation have faced issues, such as vertical growth leading to increased utility costs and unsuitable living spaces, as well as difficulties in acquiring land.
Neglecting social housing needs: City development plans, including PMAY, are often influenced by consultants favoring capital-intensive solutions, potentially neglecting social housing needs and community involvement.
Less central government’s share: The funding structure of PMAY involves significant contributions from beneficiary households and state governments, with the central government’s share being relatively small.
Limited Government Role: The architecture of PMAY places limited responsibility on the government, particularly in providing interest subsidies and cost-sharing with beneficiaries, leading to concerns about addressing the needs of the landless and the poor.

Way Forward:

Reevaluation of Funding Allocation: The central government should consider increasing its share of funding to ensure adequate resources for housing projects.
Enhanced Focus on Slum Rehabilitation: The government should review and enhance the implementation of the in-situ slum redevelopment (ISSR) component. This may involve better planning, community engagement, and addressing challenges such as land acquisition and vertical growth.
Community Participation and Needs Assessment: Incorporating community participation in the planning and implementation of housing projects is crucial

Mains PYQ

Q Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) is necessary for bringing unbanked to the institutional fiancé fold. Do you agree with this for financial inclusion of the poorer section of the Indian society? Give arguments to justify your opinion (UPSC IAS/2016)

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Electric and Hybrid Cars – FAME, National Electric Mobility Mission, etc.

How is India planning to boost EV production?

Explained | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia,Indigenization Of Technology

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: NA

Mains level: Features of the policy and concerns by private players

Why in the News?

The Union government approved a policy to promote India as a manufacturing hub for Electric Vehicles (EVs).

Features of the Electric Vehicles policy:

Reduction of Import Duty: Import duty on electric vehicles (EVs) imported as Completely Built Units (CBUs) with a minimum CIF value of $35,000 is reduced from 70%-100% to 15% for five years.
Waiver of Duty: A maximum of 40,000 EV imports in five years, with a duty waiver of ₹6,484 crore or proportional to investment (whichever is lower), requires a minimum $800 million investment.
Localization Targets: Manufacturers are required to set up manufacturing facilities in India within three years. They must achieve 25% localization by the third year and 50% localization by the fifth year of incentivized operation.
Incentives for Setting Up Manufacturing Facilities: The policy incentivizes manufacturers to establish manufacturing facilities in India by offering reduced import duties and waivers, provided they meet certain investment and localization targets.
Encouragement of Global EV Makers: The policy aims to encourage global EV makers like Tesla and Chinese EV maker BYD to enter the Indian market by providing favorable conditions for setting up manufacturing facilities and importing EVs.

Present concerns raised by Private Players in the Market:

Impact on Domestic Industry: Tata Motors opposed the reduction of import duties, fearing it would negatively affect the domestic industry. They argued that lowering duties could harm the investment climate.
Competitive Disadvantage: Domestic players are concerned that the policy benefits mainly higher-end Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), potentially placing them at a competitive disadvantage in segments below ₹29 lakh.
Favoring Global Players: The policy appears to favor global EV players and Indian joint ventures with such players, potentially making it more challenging for purely domestic players to compete effectively.

Conclusion: The government should engage in dialogue with stakeholders, including domestic players like Tata Motors, to address their concerns and seek their input in shaping the policy framework. Need to implement measures to support domestic players, including providing incentives and support for technology development, innovation, and capacity building.

Mains question for practice

Q Indian Government has recently approved a policy aimed at promoting the country as a manufacturing hub for Electric Vehicles (EVs). Discuss the key features of this policy. Highlight the concerns raised by private players.

Mains PYQ

Q How is efficient and affordable urban mass transport key to the rapid economic development in India? (UPSC IAS/2019)

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Human Development Report by UNDP

Towards a less poor and more equal country

Explained | | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: NA

Mains level: Income and wealth inequality as per the World Inequality Lab

Why in the news?

In March, World Inequality Lab, a Global Research Center focused on inequality and public policies, published in a paper titled, ‘Income and Wealth Inequality in India, 1922-2023: The Rise of the Billionaire Raj’.

Income and wealth inequality as per the World Inequality Lab:

Income Inequality: In 2022-23, the top 1% of Indians received 22.6% of the national income, the highest in a century. The top 0.1% earned nearly 10% of the national income. Wealth inequality was also stark, with the top 1% holding 40.1% of the wealth in 2022-23, the highest since 1961.
Wealth Inequality Trends: Wealth concentration increased significantly between 1961 and 2023. The top 10% held 65% of the wealth in 2022-23, up from 45% in 1961. The bottom 50% and middle 40% saw declines in their share of wealth.
Comparison with Other Countries: India’s wealth inequality, while not as extreme as in Brazil and South Africa, increased threefold between 1961 and 2023. India’s income inequality is among the highest globally, surpassing South Africa, Brazil, and the U.S.
Impact of 1991 Economic Reforms: Inequality increased notably after the 1991 economic reforms in India. Growth in China has been broad-based compared to India, resulting in lesser income inequality despite higher growth rates in China.

Present Dilemma in Human Development:

The Human Development Report (HDR) 2023-2024 ranked India 134 out of 193 countries.
India is now the fifth-largest economy but it still ranks lower than Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Bangladesh in human development. Its economic growth has not translated into growth in human development.

Measures to Improve Human Development:

Investment in Education: Ensure access to quality education for all, from primary to higher levels. Focus on improving educational infrastructure, teacher training, and curriculum development.
Healthcare Access and Quality: Expand access to affordable and quality healthcare services, including preventive, primary, and specialized care. Invest in healthcare infrastructure, medical personnel, and technology.
Poverty Reduction: Implement social welfare programs to provide basic needs such as food, shelter, and clothing to the disadvantaged. Promote inclusive economic growth to create employment opportunities and increase household incomes.

Conclusion: The Indian government has taken several steps including the creation and organization of women’s self-help groups, sending civil servants to areas with poor levels of human development, and implementing land reforms. However, a major necessity of raising awareness is through an organic approach.

Mains PYQ

Q Despite the consistent experience of high growth, India still goes with the lowest indicators of human development. Examine the issues that make balanced and inclusive development elusive (UPSC IAS/2019)

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Climate Change Impact on India and World – International Reports, Key Observations, etc.

ISRO’s Findings on Glacial Lake Dynamics in Himalaya

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

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Ghepang/Ghepan Ghat and other Glacial Lake, GLOF Glacial Landforms etc.

Mains level: NA

Why in the News?

The Satellite images by ISRO show an increase in the size of Gepang Gath Lake amidst rising concerns about Climate Change.
Gepang Gath Lake (one of the biggest Glacial lakes in the Chandra basin) is located in the Western Indian Himalaya at the terminus of the Gepan Gath glacier.

ISRO’s Findings on Glacial Lakes in Himalayas

Expansion of Glacial Lakes

During 2016-17, total of 2,431 lakes larger than 10 hectares were identified, among which 676 were identified as glacial lakes. Notably, these 676 glacial lakes have shown significant expansion since 1984. A staggering 89% (601 lakes) of the expanding lakes have more than doubled in size since 1984.
Regional Distribution: Out of these expanding glacial lakes, 130 are situated within India. Among these, 65 lakes are located in the Indus River basin, seven in the Ganga River basin, and 58 in the Brahmaputra River basin.
The derived analysis from the Satellite provides valuable insights for understanding glacial lake dynamics.
It is essential for assessing environmental impacts and developing strategies for Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF) risk management and climate change adaptation in glacial environments.

What are Glacial Lakes?

- Glacial lakes are bodies of water formed in depressions on the surface of glaciers or in moraines left behind by retreating glaciers.
- Glacial lakes were categorized based on their formation process into four broad categories:
  - Moraine-dammed,
  - Ice-dammed,
  - Erosion, and
  - Other glacial lakes.
- Among the expanding lakes, the majority are Moraine-dammed (307), followed by Erosion (265), other (96), and Ice-dammed (8) glacial lakes.
- Formation Process: Glacial lakes form through the accumulation of meltwater from the melting ice of glaciers. As glaciers move, they carve out depressions in the landscape, which may fill with water to form lakes.
  - When glaciers retreat, they leave behind moraines, which can act as natural dams, trapping meltwater and forming lakes.
- Characteristics:
  - Vary in size, depending on the size and activity of the glacier.
  - Found in mountainous regions and polar areas where glaciers are present.
  - The primary source of water is melting glacial ice, precipitation and runoff.

Significance of Glacial Lakes:

- Glacial lakes play a crucial role in regulating water flow in glacier-fed rivers, particularly during the dry season.
- Provides habitat for unique aquatic species adapted to cold, high-altitude environments.
- Contributes to landscape evolution and the formation of landforms such as cirques and tarns.

Present Ecological Challenges:
- Glacial Outburst Floods: The sudden release of water from glacial lakes, known as glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), can pose significant hazards to downstream communities and infrastructure. Ex. Chamoli Disaster.
- Rapid Expansion: Glacial lakes can rapidly expand due to the increased melting of glaciers, leading to the risk of flooding and landslides in surrounding areas.

Important Glacial Lakes in India:

Deosai National Park (Jammu and Kashmir): Known for its numerous glacial lakes.
Gangbal Lake (Jammu and Kashmir): At the base of Mount Haramukh.
Zanskar Valley Lakes (Jammu and Kashmir): Includes Tsomoriri Lake, Tsokar Lake, and many others.
Roopkund Lake (Uttarakhand): Known for the human skeletons found at its bottom.
Sarson Patal Lake (Uttarakhand): Within the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.
Deoria Tal (Uttarakhand): Offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Hemkund Lake (Uttarakhand): Near the Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara.
Kedar Tal (Uttarakhand): At the foot of the Thalay Sagar peak.
Nanda Devi East Base Lake (Uttarakhand): Offering views of the Nanda Devi peaks.
Vasuki Tal (Uttarakhand): Near the Chaturangi Glacier.
Chandratal Lake (Himachal Pradesh): Known for its crescent shape.
Suraj Tal (Himachal Pradesh): Close to the Baralacha La pass.
Rupin Lake (Himachal Pradesh): Near the Rupin Pass.
Gurudongmar Lake (Sikkim): One of the highest lakes in the world.

PYQ:

[2020] Siachen Glacier is situated to the

(a) East of Aksai Chin

(b) East of Leh

(d) North of Nubra Valley

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Climate Change Impact on India and World – International Reports, Key Observations, etc.

NABARD Unveils Climate Strategy 2030 for Green Financing

Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Agriculture and related issues,Mobilization Of Resources

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: NABARD, ‘Climate Strategy 2030’;

Mains level: Climate Strategy 2030’;

Why in the news?

The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) revealed its ‘Climate Strategy 2030’ document, aiming to address India’s need for enhanced green financing.

Key Pillars of Climate Strategy 2030:

The strategy focuses on four key pillars:
1. Accelerating green lending across sectors,
2. Playing a broader market-making role,
3. Internal green transformation, and
4. Strategic resource mobilization.

Green Financing Scenario in India

Despite India’s requirement of $170 billion annually for achieving sustainable development goals by 2030, the current green finance inflows remain critically insufficient.
As of 2019-20, India secured only about $49 billion in green financing, with a significant portion allocated to mitigation efforts, leaving minimal funds for adaptation and resilience.

About NABARD:

It was established on July 12, 1982, based on the recommendation of the Sivaraman Committee to promote sustainable rural development and agricultural growth in India.
Aim: To facilitate credit flow for the promotion and development of agriculture, small-scale industries, cottage and village industries, handicrafts, and other rural crafts.
It operates as a statutory body under the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Act, 1934, with its headquarters located in Mumbai.
It is governed by a Board of Directors appointed by the GoI:
- Representatives from the RBI;
- Central and state governments;
- Experts from various fields related to Rural Development and Finance.

Functions of NABARD:

Refinance Support: NABARD provides refinance facilities to banks and financial institutions for agricultural and rural development activities, including crop loans and rural infrastructure projects.
Financial Inclusion: It promotes financial inclusion by expanding banking services in rural areas, supporting SHGs, FPOs, and MFIs, and facilitating access to credit for rural communities.
Priority Sector Lending: NABARD plays a crucial role in channelling credit to priority sectors such as agriculture, small-scale industries, and rural infrastructure, in alignment with the Reserve Bank of India’s priority sector lending guidelines.
Direct Lending: It extends direct loans to institutions for specific rural development projects, such as agricultural production, rural infrastructure development, and agri-processing units.
Scheme Implementation: The organization administers government schemes and funds like Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF), Watershed Development Fund (WDF) to finance rural infrastructure projects and watershed development activities.
Credit Planning: NABARD collaborates with central and state governments, RBI, and other stakeholders to formulate credit policies and plans for agriculture and rural sectors.
Research and Training: NABARD promotes research and development in agriculture, supports capacity building and training programs for rural stakeholders, and facilitates technology transfer initiatives.

PYQ:

[2013] Which of the following grants/grants direct credit assistance to rural households?

Regional Rural Banks
National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development
Land Development Banks

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Census to be conducted under Nilgiri Tahr Conservation Project

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

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Nilgiri Tahr Conservation Project, Eravikulam National Park

Mains level: Conservation Strategies and Projects; Initiatives taken by government;

Why in the News?

After the launch of the Nilgiri Tahr Conservation Project, the Tamil Nadu government gears up to assess the population of Nilgiri Tahr (state animal).

The Forest Departments of Tamil Nadu and Kerala will collaborate in a synchronized way.

**Nilgiri Tahr Conservation Project (*2022 to 2027):***

Under The Nilgiri Tahr project, the Tamil Nadu government plans to develop a better understanding of the Nilgiri Tahr population through-
- Surveys and radio telemetry studies;
- Reintroduce the Tahrs to their historical habitat;
- Address proximate threats; and
- Increase public awareness of the species.
October 7 will be celebrated as ‘Niligiri Tahr Day’ in honour of E.R.C. Davidar, who was responsible for pioneering one of the first studies of the species in 1975.
Historic significance of Nilgiri Tahr:

Evidence in Tamil Sangam literature dating back to 2,000 years.
The late Mesolithic (10,000-4,000 BC) paintings highlight the significance of the Tahr in folklore, culture, and life.

About Nilgiri Tahr

- It is endemic to the Nilgiri Hills and the southern portion of the Western Ghats in the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala in Southern India.
- It is the state animal of Tamil Nadu.
- The Nilgiri tahr inhabits the open montane grassland habitat of the South Western Ghats montane rain forests eco-region.
- At elevations from 1,200 to 2,600 metres (3,900 to 8,500 ft), the forests open into grasslands interspersed with pockets of stunted forests, locally known as sholas.
- It is estimated that there are 3,122 Nilgiri Tahrs in the wild. It has become locally extinct in around 14% of its traditional shola forest-grassland habitat.
Conservation Status:

- IUCN Conservation Status: Endangered
- Wildlife (Protection) Act of India, 1972: Schedule I
Eravikulam National Park in Anamalai hills of Kerala is home to the largest population of this Tahr.
October 7 is celebrated as ‘Nilgiri Tahr Day’ to honour E.R.C. Davidar, the man who was responsible for conducting first studies of the species in 1975.

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