Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Disaster Management;
Why in the News?
Recently, PM released the IMD’s Vision Document 2047, outlining a plan to achieve nearly perfect weather forecasts for up to three days and 90% accuracy for forecasts made five days ahead by 2047.
What is IMD’s Vision Document 2047?
- The Vision Document aims for zero-error forecast accuracy for up to three days lead time and 90% accuracy for forecasts issued five days in advance by 2047. This ambitious target reflects India’s commitment to improving weather forecasting capabilities significantly.
- Focus Areas: The document emphasises enhancing weather surveillance technologies, improving atmospheric observations, and leveraging high-performance computing systems.
- It also highlights the importance of developing advanced earth system models and data-driven methods, including the use of AI and machine learning.
Why does India need an Earth warning system?
- High Seismic Vulnerability: India lies in a seismically active zone, with regions like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and the Northeast being particularly earthquake-prone. Early warning systems can help reduce damage and save lives in these areas. Example: The 2001 Gujarat earthquake caused widespread devastation.
- Risk to Dense Urban Areas: Major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata are vulnerable to earthquakes. Early warnings can help evacuate people, protect infrastructure, and minimize casualties. Example: A strong earthquake in Delhi could severely impact millions.
- Limited Preparedness and Response Time: Earthquakes give little to no time for people to react. A warning system could provide crucial seconds or minutes to activate emergency protocols, limiting loss of life and property. Example: The 2015 Nepal earthquake caused devastation in northern India.
|
How can India achieve zero-error accuracy in forecasting disasters?
- Technological Advancements: The implementation of Mission Mausam involves deploying next-generation radars, satellites with advanced instruments, and high-performance computing systems. These tools are crucial for improving the precision of weather predictions.
- Data Assimilation and Modeling: Enhancing data assimilation processes and developing improved earth system models will contribute to better forecasting accuracy. The integration of AI/ML tools is expected to refine weather predictions further.
- Capacity Building: The initiative will also focus on building capacity within meteorological services to ensure that no severe weather events go undetected. This includes training personnel and enhancing operational frameworks for the timely dissemination of forecasts.
What are the steps taken by the Indian Government in the past year?
- Amendment of the Disaster Management Act: In August 2024, the government introduced the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, in the Lok Sabha.
- This bill proposes the establishment of Urban Disaster Management Authorities for state capitals and large cities, the creation of disaster databases at national and state levels, and the formation of State Disaster Response Forces to strengthen disaster response capabilities.
- Investment in Urban Flood Mitigation: In August 2024, India announced plans to invest nearly $300 million over two years to mitigate urban flooding and conserve water in major cities, including Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru.
- The initiative focuses on expanding water bodies like lakes and constructing drainage systems to manage excessive rainfall during monsoon seasons.
- Addressing Urban Heat Islands: In June 2024, government officials acknowledged that rapid urbanization has turned cities into “heat traps,” exacerbating the effects of heatwaves.
- Efforts are underway to implement heat action plans, which include provisioning drinking water, improving medical facilities, rescheduling outdoor work, and increasing green spaces to mitigate urban heat.
- Enhancement of Early Warning Systems: The government has been working to improve early warning systems for various natural disasters, including floods and heatwaves, to provide timely alerts and reduce the impact on vulnerable populations.
- Capacity Building and Training: There has been a focus on training and capacity building for disaster response teams at both national and state levels. For instance, In 2024, the NDRF organised a multi-agency mock drill in Assam to simulate a response to a major flood disaster.
What are the challenges in forecasting a disaster?
- Data Gaps and Limited Technology: Forecasting requires high-quality, real-time data from advanced technologies like satellite imagery, weather radars, and seismic sensors. However, data scarcity in remote areas or regions with underdeveloped infrastructure hampers accurate predictions.
- Example: The 2013 Kedarnath floods in India resulted from a cloudburst that was not forecasted in time due to a lack of localized meteorological data and advanced radar systems.
- Unpredictability of Natural Phenomena: Some disasters, such as earthquakes and tsunamis, are inherently unpredictable because they result from sudden geological shifts.
- Example: The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami followed a massive earthquake, but the lack of a regional tsunami warning system in the Indian Ocean made it impossible to alert affected countries in time.
- Challenges in Communication and Dissemination: Even when forecasts are accurate, ineffective communication of warnings to vulnerable populations due to language barriers, poor outreach, or lack of awareness can render forecasts ineffective.
- Example: During Cyclone Tauktae (2021) in India, while the forecast was accurate, several fishermen ignored warnings to evacuate, leading to fatalities despite advanced cyclone prediction systems.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Technological and Data Capabilities: Invest in localized weather stations, advanced radar systems, and seismic sensors in remote areas, while leveraging AI and machine learning for precise forecasting and real-time data integration.
- Enhance Community Awareness and Communication: Develop multilingual, accessible early warning systems and conduct regular public awareness campaigns to ensure timely dissemination and community readiness during disasters.
Mains PYQ:
Q Discuss the recent measures initiated in disaster management by the Government of India departing from the earlier reactive approach. (UPSC IAS/2020)
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Sunrise sectors;
Why in the News?
India must lead in emerging industries to become a developed nation and a USD 32 trillion economy by 2047. Niti Ayoge CEO stressed the need to produce solar panels and electric vehicles.
What are the Sunrise sectors?
- Sunrise sectors refer to rapidly growing industries that are in their early stages but have high potential for expansion. These sectors attract significant venture capital and are appealing for long-term growth prospects.
- Niti Aayog CEO believes that excelling in these sectors is crucial for India to meet its ambitious economic targets by 2047.
Key Sunrise Sectors:
- Electric Vehicles (EVs): With initiatives like FAME II, India aims to boost EV manufacturing and infrastructure. The sector is expected to grow significantly, contributing to sustainability and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
- Electronics and Semiconductors: The semiconductor market in India is projected to triple by 2026, driven by government incentives and initiatives like the PLI Scheme. This sector is vital for establishing India as a global manufacturing hub.
- Renewable Energy: India is focusing on renewable energy sources, particularly solar power, where it currently lags behind globally by 5-7 years in manufacturing capabilities.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and advanced tech: It will drive innovation, economic growth, and global competitiveness.
|
What are the potential impacts?
- Economic Growth: By investing in sunrise sectors, India can drive economic growth through innovation, job creation, and industrial development. This can help bridge the gap to becoming a global economic power.
- Sustainability: These sectors align with global sustainability goals, helping India reduce dependency on fossil fuels and transition to cleaner, more renewable energy sources, ultimately aiding in climate change mitigation.
- Global Competitiveness: Being a leader in sunrise sectors, such as electric vehicles or solar panel manufacturing, can position India as a global hub for cutting-edge technology and innovation.
What are the challenges faced by the Sunrise Sectors in India?
- Technological Gap: Indian industries are lagging in areas like solar panel manufacturing and electric vehicles, often 5-7 years behind global leaders. This technological gap hinders competitiveness and innovation. Example: India has not fully capitalized on the growing electric vehicle market, which is dominated by countries like China.
- Infrastructure and Investment Deficits: India’s current infrastructure does not fully support the rapid scaling of sunrise sectors. Additionally, private credit to GDP in India is lower compared to global giants like the US and China, affecting the ability of industries to scale up. Example: Limited investments in research, development, and infrastructure for clean technology and manufacturing.
- Policy and Regulatory Bottlenecks: India’s policy frameworks for clean technology and green industries often lack the depth and support required for aggressive global competition. There is a need for more incentives, clear regulatory guidelines, and quicker approvals for new technologies.
Way forward:
- Increased Investment in Research and Development: India must invest heavily in R&D for sunrise sectors, particularly in clean technologies and electric vehicle manufacturing. Government-backed initiatives and partnerships with global players can help bridge technological gaps.
- Policy Support and Incentives: India should provide stronger policy frameworks, such as tax incentives, subsidies for clean tech investments, and faster clearances for new ventures in sunrise sectors. More investment in infrastructure, particularly for electric vehicle charging stations and renewable energy grids, is crucial.
Mains PYQ:
Q How is efficient and affordable urban mass transport key to the rapid economic development in India? (UPSC IAS/2019)
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Border security;
Why in the News?
Recently, New Delhi called Bangladesh’s Acting High Commissioner to India to discuss border security and issues related to fencing.
What are the India-Bangladesh border guidelines?
- 1975 Joint Guidelines: According to the 1975 Joint India-Bangladesh Guidelines for Border Authorities, no defense structures can be constructed within 150 yards of the international boundary by either side. This includes any form of fencing deemed a defensive structure.
- Defence Structures: India does not classify wire fencing as a defence structure, whereas Bangladesh and Pakistan do, leading to differing perspectives on the legality and implications of such constructions along the border.
What are the issues between India and Bangladesh?
- Fencing Disputes: The primary contention revolves around India’s construction of barbed wire fencing along the border, which Bangladesh claims violates the 1975 agreement. Recently, incidents in Malda and Cooch Behar have highlighted tensions, with Bangladesh’s Border Guards attempting to obstruct these efforts.
- Cross-Border Crime: India justifies fencing as a necessary measure to combat cross-border crimes, including smuggling and trafficking. However, Bangladesh argues that such measures inconvenience local residents and violate their sovereignty.
- Diplomatic Tensions: The situation has led to reciprocal diplomatic actions, with both countries summoning each other’s diplomats to express concerns over border management practices.
Why need to fence the India-Bangladesh border?
- To Prevent Cross-Border Crimes: Fencing helps reduce the smuggling of goods, drugs, and arms, as well as human trafficking, which are major concerns in border areas. For example, regions like Malda in West Bengal have seen high rates of cattle smuggling, which fencing aims to curb.
- To Manage Unauthorized Crossings: Fencing is crucial to control illegal immigration and unauthorized movements across the border, which can strain local resources and create security challenges. For instance, in Assam, illegal migration has led to demographic shifts, contributing to political and social tensions.
- To Address Geographical Complexities: The border’s unique geography, with rivers and villages close to the boundary, makes monitoring difficult, necessitating physical barriers. For example, in areas like Cooch Behar and the Dahagram–Angarpota enclave, fencing helps clearly demarcate the border and prevent disputes.
What are the steps taken by the Indian Government?
- Current Status: As of early 2025, approximately 3,180.65 kilometres of the border have been fenced, with around 915.35 kilometres remaining to be completed.
- The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has set a new deadline for completion by March 2024, although this is likely to be missed due to various challenges.
- Mixed Barriers Approach: The government plans to utilize both physical and non-physical barriers for the remaining unfenced stretches. This includes advanced technologies such as sensors and surveillance systems in areas where traditional fencing is not feasible due to geographical constraints.
- Increased Security Measures: Alongside fencing, there are plans to enhance floodlighting, establish more border outposts, and improve integrated checkposts to bolster security along the border.
Way forward:
- Enhanced Bilateral Cooperation: Strengthen dialogue mechanisms, such as flag meetings and joint consultations, to resolve disputes amicably and ensure mutual agreement on border management practices, including fencing.
- Integrated Border Management: Implement smart border solutions, combining advanced surveillance technologies and community involvement, to address security concerns while minimizing disruptions to local populations.
Mains PYQ:
Q Analyze internal security threats and transborder crimes along Myanmar, Bangladesh and Pakistan borders including Line of Control (LoC). Also discuss the role played by various security forces in this regard. (UPSC IAS/2020)
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: National Livestock Mission
Why in the News?
The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying has released operational guidelines 2.0 for National Livestock Mission (NLM).
What are the new operational guidelines 2.0 for NLM?
- It focuses on promoting entrepreneurship, cluster-based development, and sustainable practices in the livestock sector.
- They emphasize financial assistance through schemes like the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF), capacity building, and modern technologies.
- The launch of the NLM-EDP Dashboard ensures real-time monitoring and transparency.
- Priority is given to poultry, dairy, and marginalized groups to drive equitable growth.
|
About National Livestock Mission (NLM): Summary Table
|
Details |
| About |
- Launched in 2014-15, realigned in 2021-22 under the White Revolution – Rashtriya Pashudhan Vikas Yojana.
- Aims to enhance livestock production quantity and quality while fostering entrepreneurship.
- Overseen by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.
|
| Structural Mandate and Implementation |
- Comprises 3 sub-missions: (1) Breed Improvement of Livestock and Poultry, (2) Feed and Fodder Development, and (3) Innovation and Extension.
- Focus on entrepreneurship through financial incentives for individuals, FPOs, SHGs, cooperatives, and startups.
- Includes 10 activities, such as fodder cultivation and livestock insurance, emphasizing sustainable practices and stakeholder support.
|
| Features |
- Entrepreneurship Support: 50% subsidy (up to ₹50 lakh) for horse, donkey, mule, and camel conservation.
- Fodder Seed Processing: Infrastructure eligible for 50% subsidy for private entities and cooperatives.
- Fodder Cultivation: Assistance to state governments for growing fodder in degraded and non-arable lands.
- Livestock Insurance: Reduced farmer premiums (15%), expanded animal coverage, and enhanced Centre-State funding (60:40 or 90:10).
|
What is the Status of Livestock Sector in India?
- The livestock sector grew at a CAGR of 7.9% from 2014-15 to 2020-21
- Contribution to Agricultural GDP increased from 24.3% in 2014-15 to 30.1% in 2020-21
- Contributes 4.35% to the national GDP in fiscal year 2022-23
- Total livestock population: Approximately 536.76 million animals
- Population growth: 4.8% increase since 2012
- Global Livestock Ownership Highlights:
- 12.50% of world’s cattle population
- 56.70% of world’s buffalo population
- World’s second-largest poultry market
- Major Schemes and Programmes:
- Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM): Launched in December 2014 for breed development
- National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP): Focuses on controlling Foot & Mouth Disease and Brucellosis
- Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF): Approved 116 projects worth INR 3,731.4 crore
PYQ:
[2012] Which of the following is the chief characteristic of ‘mixed farming’?
(a) Cultivation of both cash crops and food crops
(b) Cultivation of two or more crops in the same field
(c) Rearing of animals and cultivation of crops together
(d) None of the above |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Kerch Strait
Why in the News?
Two Russian ships spilled 3,350 tonnes of low-grade fuel into the Kerch Strait in Crimea, posing an environmental threat to the biodiversity hotspot.
About the Kerch Strait
- The Kerch Strait is a narrow, strategically crucial waterway connecting the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov.
- It serves as a natural maritime corridor between the Crimean Peninsula and the Russian mainland.
- It stretches approximately 41 kilometers in length and varying between 4-15 kilometers in width.
- The strait features the Kerch-Yenikalsky canal, a critical maritime passage enabling larger vessels to traverse between the Black and Azov Seas.
- Port facilities at Kavkaz and Kerch serve as essential transportation hubs, facilitating significant cargo and passenger movements.
- Geopolitical Significance
- Since Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014, the Kerch Strait has become a focal point of international tension.
- The construction of the Crimean Bridge in 2018 provides a direct land connection between Russian territory and the Crimean Peninsula.
PYQ:
[2008] Which one of the following straits is nearest to the International Date Line?
(a) Malacca Strait
(b) Bering Strait
(c) Strait of Florida
(d) Strait of Gibraltar |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Atomic Energy Commission (AEC)
Why in the news?
The Government of India has reconstituted the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) to include new members, reflecting recent appointments in key administrative positions.
About the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC)
|
Details |
| About |
- Governing body of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), under the direct charge of the Prime Minister of India.
- Established on 3 August 1948 under the Department of Scientific Research; reconstituted as “Atomic Energy Commission of India” on 1 March 1954 with enhanced powers and autonomy.
- First Chairperson: Homi J. Bhabha (1948–1966).
- Headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
|
| Functions |
- Organize research in atomic science and train atomic scientists within the country.
- Promote nuclear research through its own laboratories and provide financial assistance to autonomous institutes engaged in nuclear research.
- Undertake prospecting and extraction of atomic minerals for industrial use.
- Enabled significant achievements, such as India’s first underground nuclear test at Pokhran, Rajasthan on 18 May 1974.
|
| Structural Mandate |
- Membership includes a Chairperson, scientists, policymakers, and other experts appointed by the government to guide strategic direction and decision-making.
- Provides recommendations on nuclear energy policies, oversees India’s nuclear energy program, and ensures compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
- Collaborates with international organizations for peaceful nuclear energy development and security.
Operates 6 key research centers:
- Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Mumbai.
- Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu.
- Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology (RRCAT), Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
- Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre (VECC), Kolkata, West Bengal.
- Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD), Hyderabad, Telangana.
- Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership (GCNEP), Bahadurgarh, Haryana.
|
PYQ:
[2018] With growing energy needs should India keep on expanding its nuclear energy programme? Discuss the facts and fears associated with nuclear energy. |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Pink Fire Retardant (PFR)
Why in the News?
Air tankers have dropped thousands of litres of pink fire retardant (PFR) to slow the spread of wildfires in Los Angeles.
Pink Fire Retardant (PFR) and its properties
- The PFR is a chemical mixture designed to slow or suppress wildfires by reducing the flammability of vegetation and other materials.
- The most recognized brand of PFR is Phos-Chek, manufactured by Perimeter Solutions.
- It is primarily made of ammonium phosphate-based slurry, including:
- Monoammonium phosphate (80%-90%).
- Diammonium phosphate.
- Performance additives for enhanced effectiveness.
- Pink dye for visibility.
- It is sprayed as a foam or slurry to coat vegetation ahead of wildfires.
- It slows combustion by:
- Depleting oxygen needed for flames.
- Altering how cellulose (plant material) decomposes, creating non-flammable carbon.
- Unlike water, which evaporates quickly, PFR’s chemical components remain effective for days or weeks, providing long-term protection.
Significance of PFR
- Provides fire-fighters with critical time to control wildfires.
- Creates firebreaks by coating vegetation and preventing ignition.
- Effective in diverse terrains, slopes, and weather conditions.
- Helps protect natural habitats and human infrastructure by slowing wildfire spread.
- Reduces the scale and intensity of wildfires, minimizing ecological damage.
PYQ:
[2019] Consider the following:
- Carbon monoxide
- Methane
- Ozone
- Sulphur dioxide
Which of the above are released into atmosphere due to the burning of crop/biomass residue?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(c) 1 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now