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Women empowerment issues – Jobs,Reservation and education

[29th April 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Role in a risk society: how women bear a disproportionate burden

PYQ Relevance:

[UPSC 2019] What are the continued challenges for women in India against time and space?

Linkage: The article details talk about the various challenges that contribute to women bearing a disproportionate burden, including socio-economic inequalities, health risks, and the burden of caregiving roles.

 

Mentor’s Comment:  In 1986, the Chernobyl disaster released harmful radiation, affecting millions for years. The 2011 Fukushima disaster in Japan showed similar risks in crowded areas. Both events highlighted how rapid modernization increases dangers, and women, especially in rural or marginalized communities, often bear the brunt of such crises due to their caregiving roles and limited access to resources. Similarly, the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 overwhelmed healthcare systems and disrupted economies, disproportionately affecting women, particularly those in low-income jobs or caregiving roles, and deepening existing gender inequalities.

Today’s editorial discusses the impact of modernization on women in India and around the world. This content will be helpful for GS Paper 1 (Indian Society).

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Let’s learn!

Why in the News?

The term ‘risk society’, coined by Ulrich Beck in his book Risk Society: Towards a New Modernity, refers to a shift from an industrial society to a society where uncertainty and dangers, caused by technology and environmental changes, play a larger role in shaping our lives.

Why are women more vulnerable to the consequences of risks in a risk society, especially in developing countries?

  • Unequal Access to Resources: Women often have less access to land, credit, education, and technology compared to men. Eg: In rural areas of Africa and South Asia, women farmers typically control smaller plots and have less access to irrigation or improved seeds, making them more vulnerable to climate shocks like droughts.
  • Caregiving Responsibilities Increase Exposure: Women are usually responsible for caregiving roles (childcare, eldercare, healthcare), exposing them more to environmental and health risks. Eg: During the COVID-19 pandemic, women healthcare workers (70% of health workforce globally) faced higher exposure to the virus.
  • Greater Health Vulnerabilities: Due to physiological factors and social inequalities (like poor nutrition), women face higher health risks during environmental crises. Eg: In India, 57% of women suffer from anaemia (NFHS-5), making them more vulnerable during food shortages or health crises.
  • Social and Cultural Norms Deepen Disadvantages: Gender norms often prioritize men’s needs over women’s during disasters, leading to unequal relief, recovery, and aid access. Eg: After natural disasters like the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, women had lower survival rates partly because cultural norms restricted their ability to swim or climb trees.
  • Economic Insecurity Limits Resilience: Women are overrepresented in informal, low-wage, and insecure jobs, making it harder for them to recover from economic disruptions. Eg: During lockdowns in 2020, women in informal sectors (like domestic work or street vending) lost incomes faster and found it harder to regain employment.

How do manufactured risks differ from natural risks?

Aspect Natural Risks Manufactured Risks
Origin of the Risks Arise from natural events or phenomena without human intervention. Result from human activities, often related to technological, industrial, or environmental actions
  Eg. Earthquakes, floods, storms Chernobyl nuclear disaster, pollution from industrial activities
Predictability and Control Typically unpredictable, though some can be forecasted with scientific tools. Often foreseeable and manageable through technologies or regulations.
  Eg. Earthquakes (hard to predict), hurricanes (can be forecasted) Air pollution (can be reduced through cleaner technologies)
Scope and Impact Often localized, though some (e.g., pandemics) can have widespread effects. Tend to have global implications, affecting large populations and interconnected systems.
  Eg. Flood in a specific region Climate change causing global consequences (e.g., rising sea levels, extreme weather)

How did significant disasters like the Chernobyl nuclear accident and the COVID-19 pandemic reveal the vulnerabilities of an interconnected world?

  • Global Spread of Consequences: Both disasters showed how localized events can have widespread, global implications due to the interconnectedness of modern society. Eg: The Chernobyl disaster in 1986 released radioactive material into the atmosphere, which was carried by wind and affected countries across Europe, highlighting how environmental risks can transcend national borders. Similarly, the COVID-19 pandemic, originating in China, spread rapidly across the globe, disrupting economies and health systems worldwide.
  • Overwhelming Existing Systems: Both events overwhelmed existing infrastructures, revealing vulnerabilities in global systems that were ill-equipped to handle large-scale crises. Eg: In Chernobyl, the failure to control the nuclear fallout showed the inadequacies of disaster management and safety protocols, especially with complex technologies. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed weaknesses in healthcare systems, even in developed countries, as hospitals were overwhelmed with patients and unable to cope with the rapid spread of the virus.
  • Amplification of Inequalities: Both disasters deepened existing inequalities, demonstrating how interconnected risks can exacerbate vulnerabilities for marginalized groups. Eg: Chernobyl disproportionately affected nearby populations, including poorer communities, who were more vulnerable to health impacts due to limited access to resources and healthcare. The COVID-19 pandemic similarly highlighted how marginalized groups, such as low-income workers and people in developing countries, suffered more from economic disruption and limited access to healthcare.

Who primarily bears the burden of managing risks in households, especially related to environmental and health hazards?

  • Women as Primary Caregivers: In many societies, especially in developing countries, women are the primary caregivers and household managers, placing them at the forefront of managing health and environmental risks. Eg: Women often handle household chores such as cooking, cleaning, and caring for children or elderly family members, putting them at increased exposure to risks like air pollution from solid fuel use or water contamination.
  • Gendered Roles in Resource Management: Women are frequently responsible for collecting water, gathering fuel, and managing food resources, making them more vulnerable to environmental hazards like water scarcity, pollution, and food insecurity. Eg: In rural areas, women often walk long distances to collect water, and if these water sources are contaminated, they face health risks directly, such as waterborne diseases.
  • Economic and Social Vulnerabilities: Women’s economic position and access to resources are often limited, making it harder for them to recover from environmental or health-related disasters. Their roles as caregivers are frequently undervalued, and they often lack the financial independence or support to manage risks effectively. Eg: In the aftermath of climate-related disasters like floods or droughts, women, especially in rural or low-income households, may face greater difficulties in accessing relief or rebuilding their livelihoods, further exacerbating their vulnerability.

What are the steps taken by the Indian government? 

  • National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC): Launched in 2008 to tackle climate change by promoting renewable energy and enhancing climate resilience (e.g., National Solar Mission).
  • Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission): Initiated in 2014 to improve sanitation and reduce health hazards through waste management and toilet construction.
  • Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): Launched in 2016 to provide crop insurance, protecting farmers from losses due to natural calamities.

Way forward: 

  • Strengthening Gender-Responsive Policies: Develop and implement policies that address the specific needs of women in disaster management, healthcare, and environmental sustainability to reduce vulnerabilities.
  • Enhancing Access to Resources and Technology: Improve access to education, technology, and financial resources for women, particularly in rural areas, to enable them to better manage and mitigate risks.

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Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc

The post of Deputy Speaker is not symbolic or optional

Why in the News?

The Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha is not just a symbolic position but an important role required by the Constitution.

What is the role of the Deputy Speaker under Article 93?

  • Presiding Over the Lok Sabha in the Speaker’s Absence: The Deputy Speaker steps in to chair the sessions of the Lok Sabha when the Speaker is unavailable, ensuring that legislative proceedings continue smoothly. Eg: If the Speaker is unwell or on an official visit abroad, the Deputy Speaker takes over the chair to maintain the functioning of the House, as happened during various occasions when the Speaker had to travel.
  • Ensuring Impartiality in Debates and Proceedings: The Deputy Speaker, like the Speaker, must remain impartial and ensure that debates are conducted fairly, without any bias towards any party or individual. Eg: During debates on sensitive issues such as the passing of a crucial bill, the Deputy Speaker ensures that all parties have an opportunity to speak and that the debate remains orderly, as seen in past sessions when contentious issues were discussed.
  • Chairing Parliamentary Committees: The Deputy Speaker presides over important parliamentary committees, which play a crucial role in managing legislative work and business. Eg: The Deputy Speaker has chaired committees such as the Business Advisory Committee, where decisions are made regarding the scheduling of bills and other parliamentary matters, helping to streamline the legislative process.

Why is the continued vacancy of the post a constitutional concern?

  • Violation of Constitutional Mandate (Article 93): The Constitution directs that the House shall elect a Deputy Speaker “as soon as may be”, implying urgency, not discretion. Eg: The 17th Lok Sabha (2019–2024) functioned its entire term without appointing a Deputy Speaker, disregarding this mandate.
  • Absence of Institutional Safeguard in Emergencies: The Deputy Speaker acts as a constitutional backup in case the Speaker resigns, is removed, or is incapacitated. Eg: In 1956, when Speaker G.V. Mavalankar died, Deputy Speaker M.A. Ayyangar stepped in immediately to prevent disruption.
  • Undermining Legislative Continuity and Stability: Without a Deputy Speaker, the House lacks redundancy in leadership, risking procedural breakdown during key sessions. Eg: If a crisis arises during budget discussions and the Speaker is absent, proceedings could face delays or legal challenges.
  • Erosion of Democratic Norms and Bipartisanship: Traditionally, the post is offered to the Opposition to maintain balance, promote inclusivity, and uphold impartiality. Eg: Earlier Lok Sabhas saw the Deputy Speaker from the Opposition, fostering cooperative legislative functioning.
  • Centralisation of Power and Partisan Control: Leaving the post vacant gives unchecked control to the ruling party through the Speaker alone, weakening internal checks. Eg: In the absence of a Deputy Speaker, all procedural authority remains concentrated in one office, reducing scope for dissent or moderation.

When and how did the Deputy Speaker’s position originate? 

  • Origin in Colonial Legislative Framework: The post of Deputy Speaker evolved from the position of Deputy President in the Central Legislative Assembly during British rule. Eg: Sachidanand Sinha became the first Deputy President (equivalent to Deputy Speaker) in 1921 under colonial administration.
  • Continuity Through the Constituent Assembly (Legislative): Even before the Constitution was adopted in 1950, the Constituent Assembly retained the role of Deputy Speaker to maintain legislative function. Eg: The Assembly recognized the practical need for a second presiding officer during debates and discussions on the Constitution.
  • Institutionalisation in Post-Independence India: The office was formally incorporated under Article 93 of the Constitution, emphasising its necessity in democratic governance. Eg: M.A. Ayyangar became the first elected Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha in 1952 and later served as acting Speaker after G.V. Mavalankar’s death.

How can reforms ensure timely appointment of the Deputy Speaker? (Way forward)

  • Introducing a Fixed Timeline in the Constitution: Amend Article 93 to mandate election of the Deputy Speaker within a specific period (e.g., 60 days) after the first sitting of a new Lok Sabha. Eg: Similar to the time-bound requirement for forming a government after elections, a clear deadline would prevent indefinite delays.
  • Statutory Mechanism Empowering the President: Create a law allowing the President to direct the House to elect a Deputy Speaker if the position remains vacant beyond the stipulated time. Eg: On the advice of the Prime Minister or Speaker, the President could initiate proceedings to avoid constitutional anomalies.
  • Strengthening Parliamentary Conventions: Reinforce the long-standing practice of offering the Deputy Speaker’s post to the Opposition through formal House resolutions. Eg: Restoring this tradition would ensure bipartisan respect and encourage prompt consensus in electing the Deputy Speaker.

Mains PYQ:

[UPSC 2020] ‘Once a Speaker, Always a Speaker’! Do you think this practice should be adopted to impart objectivity to the office of the Speaker of Lok Sabha? What could be its implications for the robust functioning of parliamentary business in India?

Linkage: While focusing on the Speaker, the question is relevant because the Deputy Speaker’s role is intrinsically linked to the robust functioning of parliamentary business and the need for impartiality or objectivity within the presiding officers’ roles.

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Freedom of Speech – Defamation, Sedition, etc.

Indians fear fake news but are less concerned about press freedom

Why in the News?

In India, although many people are worried about fake news and misinformation, they don’t mostly blame the government for it. Instead, many people are okay with the government having more control over the media, according to a recent survey by the Pew Research Centre.

What does the Pew survey reveal about misinformation and government control in India?

  • High concern about fake news: 65% of Indian respondents said made-up news and information is a “very big problem,” placing India among the top 10 countries with the highest concern.
  • Low emphasis on need for free media: Only 68% said it is very or somewhat important for the media to report news without government censorship, the second-lowest among 35 countries surveyed.
  • Belief in media freedom: 80% of respondents believe that the Indian media is currently “somewhat” or “completely” free from state intervention, among the highest in the survey.
  • Misinformation seen as non-governmental: Citizens largely attribute fake news to sources like social media and WhatsApp, rather than to state action or censorship.

Why is there a contradiction between concern for fake news and support for state control?

  • Misinformation blamed on non-state actors: Many Indians see fake news as stemming from social media platforms like WhatsApp or Facebook, not from government channels. Eg: Viral misinformation during elections is often attributed to private forwards, not official news broadcasts.
  • Trust in government regulation over systemic reforms: There is greater public belief that the state can control misinformation better than a free and independent press. Eg: Support for internet bans during riots or unrest, viewed as a way to stop rumors, even if it limits press freedom.
  • Low awareness of press freedom deterioration: Despite India’s declining World Press Freedom Index ranking, most respondents think the media is already free. Eg: 80% of Indians believe media is free, while only 68% think freedom from state censorship is important.

How does India’s World Press Freedom Index ranking reflect on media freedom?

  • Deteriorating Position Globally: India ranked 159 out of 180 countries in the 2024 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders, reflecting a serious decline in media independence and journalist safety. Eg: India has consistently ranked below 100 since 2003, showing a long-term concern.
  • Gap Between Perception and Reality: While 80% of Indians believe media is free, global rankings suggest significant censorship, legal pressure, and harassment of journalists. Eg: Arrests and raids on independent news portals contradict the public’s belief in press freedom.
  • Impact of State Influence and Surveillance: The low ranking indicates increasing state influence, with reports of surveillance, restrictions on digital media, and pressure on newsrooms. Eg: Pegasus spyware allegations against journalists in India highlight these issues.
  • Legal and Political Threats to Journalists: India’s ranking reflects how stringent laws (like UAPA and sedition) are used against journalists, creating a chilling effect on independent reporting. Eg: The arrest of journalist Siddique Kappan under UAPA demonstrates misuse of laws.
  • Public Support for Control vs. Press Freedom Standards: Despite the low press freedom score, a large section of Indians supports state control over the media, showing a disconnect between democratic ideals and citizen expectations. Eg: Only 68% Indians see uncensored reporting as important—the second-lowest globally.

Where is the “press freedom gap” reversed according to the survey?

  • India and Kenya Show Reversal: Unlike most countries, India and Kenya are the only two where more people believe the media is free than believe media freedom is important. Eg: In India, 80% say the media is free, but only 68% feel uncensored reporting is important.
  • Contrary to Global Trend: In 33 out of 35 countries, the importance of media freedom is rated higher than the belief that it actually exists, but India and Kenya show the opposite. Eg: In Greece, a higher number want free media but few believe it actually exists, unlike India.
  • High Confidence Despite Global Ranking: Even though India’s global press freedom ranking is poor (159/180), public confidence in existing media freedom remains oddly high. Eg: 80% Indians feel the media is free despite evidence of censorship and harassment.
  • Low Awareness of Press Challenges: The reversed gap suggests a lack of public awareness about the extent of media control, censorship, or intimidation. Eg: Many Indians attribute misinformation to social media platforms rather than government control.
  • Potential for Justifying State Control: Since many believe the media is already free, there is less pressure on governments to ensure genuine press freedom, and greater acceptance of censorship. Eg: High public tolerance allows laws and actions against journalists to go unchallenged.

Way forward: 

  • Enhance Media Literacy and Public Awareness: Launch nationwide campaigns to educate citizens about the role of a free press, the risks of censorship, and the importance of independent journalism. Eg: School curricula and public broadcasts can include modules on identifying misinformation and understanding media freedom.
  • Strengthen Institutional Safeguards for Press Freedom: Enact legal and institutional reforms to protect journalists from harassment, ensure transparency in state actions, and promote accountability in media regulation. Eg: Independent media commissions and judicial safeguards against misuse of laws like UAPA.

Mains PYQ:

[UPSC 2014] What do you understand by the concept “freedom of speech and expression”? Does it cover hate speech also? Why do the films in India stand on a slightly different plane from other forms of expression? Discuss.

Linkage: “Freedom of speech and expression”, which is guaranteed by Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution and forms the fundamental basis for press freedom in India. 

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Organic Farming – Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojna (PKVY), NPOF etc.

Bio-Input Resource Centres (BRCs) to Promote Natural Farming

Why in the News?

The Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare has come up with the guidelines for setting up of bio-input resource centres (BRC) under the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF).

What are Bio-Input Resource Centres (BRCs)?

  • BRCs are part of the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF), aimed at promoting chemical-free and sustainable agriculture.
  • BRCs will produce, store, and supply bio-inputs like Jeevamrit, Beejamrit, and Neemastra using local livestock by-products and plant-based materials.
  • Key Functions:
    1. Local Production: Ensures availability of bio-fertilizers and bio-pesticides, reducing dependency on synthetic inputs.
    2. Training: Provides training on bio-input preparation and natural farming techniques.
    3. Entrepreneurship: Promotes local entrepreneurship, empowering self-help groups (SHGs) and farmers.
    4. Affordability: Aims to make sustainable farming practices accessible to small and marginal farmers.
  • Financial support of Rs 1 lakh per BRC are provided in two tranches of Rs 50,000, though experts raise concerns about its adequacy for infrastructure.

Back2Basics: National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF):

  • NMNF is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme was launched on November 2024 under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, promoting chemical-free farming.
  • Objectives:
    • Focus on eco-friendly practices and organic methods.
    • Reduce input costs by minimizing chemical usage.
    • Restore soil health, promote biodiversity, and improve climate resilience.
  • Implementation Strategy:
    • Establish 15,000 clusters across Gram Panchayats.
    • Train 1 crore farmers and implement practices on 7.5 lakh hectares.
    • Establish 10,000 BRCs for bio-input accessibility.
    • Deploy 30,000 Krishi Sakhis for mobilization.
  • Financial Outlay: ₹2,481 crore until 2025-26.
[UPSC 2021] How is permaculture farming different from conventional chemical farming?

1.Permaculture farming discourages monocultural practices, but in conventional chemical farming, monoculture practices are predominant. 2.Conventional chemical farming can cause an increase in soil salinity, but this phenomenon is not observed in permaculture farming. 3.Conventional chemical farming is easily possible in semi-arid regions, but permaculture farming is not so easily possible in such regions. 4.The practice of mulching is very important in permaculture farming but not necessarily so in conventional chemical farming.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Options: (a) 1 and 3  (b) 1, 2, and 4* (c) 4 only (d) 2 and 3

 

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Water Management – Institutional Reforms, Conservation Efforts, etc.

[pib] River Cities Alliance (RCA)

Why in the News?

The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) has approved an annual master plan for the River Cities Alliance (RCA), aimed at scaling up sustainable urban river rejuvenation.

What is the River Cities Alliance (RCA)?

  • The RCA launched in 2021, promotes sustainable urban river management across India.
  • It is a joint initiative by the Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to integrate river-sensitive urban planning within cities.
  • It aims to strengthen institutional capacities, foster collaboration, and support the creation of Urban River Management Plans (URMPs).
  • As of 2025, 145 cities are part of the alliance, sharing best practices for river conservation.
  • Key activities include promoting river-sensitive planning, peer-to-peer learning, and training for urban local bodies (ULBs).

About National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG):

  • The NMCG is a flagship initiative to rejuvenate the Ganga River through pollution abatement, ecological restoration, and community involvement.
  • Established in 2011, it implements the Namami Gange Program.
  • It was launched with a ₹20,000 crore budget, covering over 288 projects.
  • It focuses on pollution abatement and maintaining the ecological flow of the Ganga.
  • It operates under a five-tier framework, including the National Ganga Council and state/district committees.
  • Key Initiatives: Includes sewage treatment, riverfront development, real-time monitoring, and public awareness campaigns.
  • It also addresses floods, droughts, and waterlogging in the Ganga basin.
[UPSC 2021] Which of the following are the key features of ‘National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA)?

1. River basin is the unit of planning and management.

2. It spearheads the river conservation efforts at the national level.

3. One of the Chief Ministers of the States through which the Ganga flows becomes the Chairman of NGRBA on rotation basis.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

Options: (a) 1 and 2 only  (b) 2 and 3 only* (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

 

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In news: Haji Pir Pass

Why in the News?

The recent Pahalgam terror attack has revived debates on India’s 1966 decision to surrender the Haji Pir Pass to Pakistan during Tashkent Agreement of 1966.

This move is compared to the Soviet Union’s 1954 transfer of Crimea, which created lasting security challenges.

About Haji Pir Pass:

  • The Haji Pir Pass is located in the Pir Panjal Range of Jammu and Kashmir, at an altitude of 2,637 meters (8,652 feet).
  • It connects Poonch in India to Rawalakot in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
  • Historically, it was a vital route for connecting Jammu to the Kashmir Valley before 1947, making it an essential part of India’s transportation network.
  • Post-partition, it became part of PoK and, during the 1965 Indo-Pak War, India recaptured it under Operation Bakshi.
  • However, it was returned to Pakistan following the Tashkent Agreement in 1966, a decision criticized by many experts.

How Haji Pir Pass is a Chokepoint?

  • Strategic Military Route: The pass provides Pakistan with the ability to control and monitor the Kashmir Valley from a high-altitude position, serving as a key route for military logistics and infiltration.
  • Gateway for Infiltration: Historically, it has been used for militant infiltration into India, fuelling insurgency and instability in Kashmir.
  • Shortened Military Access: Retaining the pass would have reduced the distance between Poonch and Uri from 282 km to 56 km, improving India’s military logistics and rapid deployment.
  • Control over Key Terrain: Controlling the pass enables domination of the surrounding hills, limiting Pakistan’s ability to sustain military pressure and infiltration.
[UPSC 2007] Which one of the following Himalayan passes was reopened around in the middle of the year 2006 to facilitate trade between India and China?

(a) Chang La (b) Jara La (c) Nathu La* (d) Shipki La

 

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Tiger Conservation Efforts – Project Tiger, etc.

Sariska TR’s Critical Tiger Habitat to grow by 4.5k Hectares

Why in the News?

The Critical Tiger Habitat (CTH) of Sariska Tiger Reserve (STR) in Rajasthan is set to expand by approximately 4,500 hectares.

What is Critical Tiger Habitat (CTH)?

  • CTHs are designated under the Wildlife Protection Act (WLPA), 1972, to conserve tiger populations, keeping areas inviolate for tiger conservation.
  • The core areas of tiger reserves, where human activities are prohibited, serve as Critical Tiger Habitats.
  • Surrounding buffer zones allow sustainable human activities like eco-tourism and regulated resource use, supporting conservation efforts.
  • These areas are scientifically identified based on studies of tiger movement, breeding patterns, and environmental needs, ensuring long-term survival and ecological balance.
  • Scheduled Tribes and other forest dwellers’ rights are respected within the legal framework, making conservation inclusive.
  • The largest critical tiger habitat in India is the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR) spanning 5937 square kilometers.

About Sariska Tiger Reserve (STR):

  • STR is located in Alwar district, Rajasthan, about 107 km from Jaipur, and is one of India’s most important tiger reserves.
  • Initially a royal hunting preserve, it became a sanctuary in 1955 and upgraded to a national park in 1979.
  • STR was one of the first tiger reserves under the Project Tiger initiative.
  • In 2008, after the tiger population was wiped out due to poaching and human encroachment, tigers were successfully relocated to the reserve, marking a world-first for tiger reintroduction.
  • Flora: STR has semi-deciduous forests, grasslands, rocky landscapes, and cliffs. The park is primarily dominated by dhok trees, covering around 90% of the area, alongside other species like salar, kadaya, and gol trees.
  • Fauna: The reserve is home to species like tigers, leopards, sambhar deer, nilgai, wild boars, rhesus macaques, and hyenas.
  • Ruparel River flows through STR, contributing to its ecological richness by supporting wildlife and plant species.
[UPSC 2020] Among the following Tiger Reserves, which one has the largest area under “Critical Tiger Habitat”?

Options: (a) Corbett (b) Ranthambore (c) Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam* (d) Sunderbans

 

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