Why in the news:

• Much of the discussion over illegal immigration to the US has in recent weeks moved its focus south to the Darien Gap.

What is Darien Gap?

• The Darien Gap spans northern Colombia and Southern Panama, covering approximately 97 km of dense jungle terrain.
• It is situated in the narrowest part of the Isthmus of Panama, connecting North America to South America.
• It covers an area of approximately 41,440 square km.
• The landscape is characterized by dense rainforests, swamps, rivers, and rugged mountains.
• It is one of the most biologically diverse regions on Earth, home to a wide array of plant and animal species, including jaguars, pumas, tapirs, and numerous bird species.

Why in the news?

Ans. Surge in Illegal Crossings

• Escalating Numbers: In 2021, the Panamanian government recorded a staggering 133,000 crossings, with over half a million individuals transiting through the region in 2023.
• Root Causes: Violence, insecurity, and limited legal immigration options in home countries propel individuals, including Venezuelans, Haitians, and Afghans, to undertake the perilous journey.

Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2015:

The area known as ‘Golan Heights’ sometimes appears in the news in the context of the events is related to:

(a) Central Asia

(b) Middle East

(c) South-East Asia

(d) Central Africa

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