In recent incidents of  global conflicts, the role of UN peacekeeping is very crucial. The ‘bystander’ should be brought centre-stage and held accountable alongside the perpetrator for crimes against humanity. 

About UN peacekeeping

UN Peacekeeping is a joint effort between the Department of Peace Operations and the Department of Operational Support. 

• It comprised civilian, police and military personnel.
• Purpose: Helps countries torn by conflict create conditions for lasting peace by providing security, political, and peacebuilding support.
• Strengths: Legitimacy, burden sharing, and ability to deploy troops globally; combines military, police, and civilian peacekeepers.
• Structure: Guided by the UN Security Council with mandates specific to conflict situations.

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• The first UN peacekeeping mission was established in May 1948.
  • The UN Security Council authorised the deployment of a small number of UN military observers to the Middle East to form the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO)
  • To monitor the Armistice Agreement between Israel and its Arab neighbours.

Principles of UN Peacekeeping

• UN Peacekeeping is guided by three basic principles:
  • Consent of the Parties: Operations require consent to avoid becoming a party to conflict.
  • Impartiality: Peacekeepers must remain unbiased while implementing mandates.
  • Non-Use of Force: Force is only used for self-defence or to protect the mandate. 

Mandates and Functions

• Conflict Prevention: Prevent outbreak or spill-over of conflicts.
• Ceasefire Stabilization: Deploy post-ceasefire to stabilise regions.
• Peace Agreement Implementation: Assist in implementing comprehensive agreements.
• Political Transition: Support democratic and stable governance transitions.
• Humanitarian aid: Delivering humanitarian aid, supporting refugee reintegration, and promoting environmental sustainability.

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Contributions to Conflict Resolution

• Conflict Prevention: Deploying peacekeepers in high-risk areas prevents conflicts from escalating (e.g., Cyprus and Lebanon).
• Ceasefire Monitoring: Peacekeepers help monitor and verify ceasefires, supporting peace agreements between conflicting parties.
• Humanitarian Support: Peacekeepers facilitate humanitarian aid by securing safe corridors and aiding relief organisations.
• Elections & Governance: Peacekeepers assist in the establishment of democratic institutions and organise elections (e.g., Timor Leste, Cambodia).
• Capacity Building: They support local authorities in post-conflict reconstruction and training local police forces for future stability.

Successes and Failures of UN Peacekeeping

• Achievements in Peacekeeping
  • Since 1948, it has helped end conflicts and foster reconciliation by conducting successful peacekeeping operations in dozens of countries, including Cambodia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mozambique, Namibia and Tajikistan.
  • Successful UN peacekeeping missions: Cambodia, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, Angola, Timor Leste, Liberia, Kosovo.
• Recognition: Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1988.
• Failures: 
  • Rwanda (1994), Bosnia (1995) and Mali (2023): UN failed to protect civilians.
  • Recent Failures: UN’s inability to act decisively in Ukraine and Israel-Gaza conflicts.
  • Sexual abuse: Accused of sexual abuse and exploitation in many countries, including Haiti, Bosnia, Cambodia, East Timor, Iraq, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. 

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Challenges and Limitations of UN Peacekeeping

• Veto power: The increasing polarization of the P5 members has led to frequent use of veto power, which can prevent the timely deployment of peacekeepers. 
  • For example, in 2023, the US vetoed a resolution calling for humanitarian pauses in Gaza. 
• Resource Constraints: The need for adequately trained and well-equipped forces can limit effectiveness.
• Political Impediments: The Security Council’s veto power can hinder rapid intervention, as seen in the Rwanda genocide.
• Complex Mandates: Peacekeepers sometimes face mandates with unclear objectives, making it difficult to act decisively, e.g., in recent conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.
• Changing Nature of Conflicts: Modern conflicts involve complex urban warfare, cyber elements, and non-state actors, which traditional peacekeeping isn’t equipped to handle.
• Accusations of Bias: UN forces sometimes face allegations of partiality, risking their credibility and mandate in the conflict zone.
• Credibility Crisis: Historical failures continue to haunt UN peacekeeping’s reputation.  
• Regional Alternatives: Regional organisations like African Union’s peace operations in Somalia (ATMIS) are increasingly taking lead roles in peacekeeping operations. 

India’s contribution in peacekeeping missions

• Troop contributions: India has contributed more troops than any other country, with over 253,000 personnel serving in 49 UN missions since 1948.
  • As of December 31, 2023, India has deployed 5,901 troops across 12 UN peacekeeping missions. 
• Women in Peacekeeping:  In 2007, India became the first country to deploy an all-women contingent to a UN peacekeeping mission. 
• • Recently, Major Radhika Sen, an Indian woman peacekeeper, who served with the UN mission in Congo, will be honoured with a prestigious military gender advocate award. 
• Leadership: India has provided and continues to provide force commanders for UN missions.
• Support: India has also provided logistic support, peacekeeper training, and capacity development for the UN, host nations, and partner nations. 
  • The Indian Army has established the Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping (CUNPK) in New Delhi to impart training in peacekeeping operations.
    • Trains more than 12,000 troops every year.
• Trust Fund: India was the first country to contribute to the Trust Fund on sexual exploitation and abuse, which was set up in 2016. 
• Recognition: Indian peacekeepers have been praised for their efforts and high standards of performance. 
  • Over 175 Indian peacekeepers have died while serving in UN missions.
• Commitment: India’s commitment to UN peacekeeping is based on the ancient Indian principle of Vasudhavia Kutumbakam, which means “the whole world is my family”. 

Way Forward for Strengthening UN Peacekeeping

• Political Solutions and Conflict Resolution: Enhance diplomatic and political approaches to prevent, manage, and resolve conflicts. 
• Expansion of Security Council Membership: Proposed to include emerging powers like India and South Africa to enhance representation and decision-making balance.
• Limit Veto Power: Limiting or modifying veto use in humanitarian crises could enable faster deployment of peacekeeping forces.
• Strengthening Mandates: Empower peacekeeping forces with clearer mandates to protect civilians and use force when necessary to prevent large-scale atrocities.
• Women, Peace, and Security: Prioritize the integration of the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda by increasing the number of female peacekeepers and ensuring gender perspectives in all peacekeeping activities. 
• Protection of Civilians and Human Rights: Strengthen mechanisms to safeguard civilians, especially in volatile conflict zones, by improving operational responsiveness and strengthening partnerships with local communities to enhance trust and security.
• Safety and Security of Peacekeepers: Invest in advanced technology, including surveillance and early-warning systems, and improve training and resources to enhance peacekeepers’ safety in high-risk environments. 
• Performance and Accountability: Establish stringent performance and accountability frameworks to ensure that peacekeeping components meet high standards. 
  • Regular assessments and transparent reporting mechanisms should be applied to all peacekeeping missions.
• Effective Partnerships: Foster collaborative efforts with regional organisations, host governments, and other stakeholders. 
• Ethics and Conduct: Enforce strict codes of conduct to maintain the credibility and integrity of peacekeeping missions. 

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Conclusion

Despite limitations, UN peacekeeping remains a critical tool in preventing conflict escalation and supporting global peace. However, structural reforms and greater efficiency are needed to adapt to modern-day conflicts and enhance its role as a proactive, rather than reactive, peace enforcer.

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The EU’s Nature Restoration Law (NRL) to restore nature was given the green light by the European parliament recently.

About EU’s Nature Restoration Law (NRL)

• Adopted: June 17, 2024, by the EU’s Environmental Council.
• Scope: Part of the EU’s Biodiversity Strategy 2030 and European Green Deal.
• Objective: The law aims to restore 20% of the EU’s land and sea areas by 2030, expanding to 90% by 2050.
  • Restoration of 30% of degraded habitats by 2030, 60% by 2040, and 90% by 2050.
• Key actions:
  • Restore 25,000 km of rivers.
  • Plant 3 billion trees by 2030.
• Scope: It targets degraded ecosystems like forests, rivers, and wetlands, especially those in Natura 2000 (protected areas).
  • Addresses biodiversity loss and improves the condition of degraded habitats (80% in Europe).

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• Biodiversity Goals: Aligned with the EU’s 2030 biodiversity strategy and the global Kunming-Montreal framework, which seeks to conserve 30% of land and sea by 2030.
• Flexibility for Member States: Countries choose specific areas and ecosystems for restoration, submit national restoration plans, and are required to monitor and report progress regularly.

Significance of Nature Restoration Law (NRL)

• Climate Mitigation: Healthy ecosystems are crucial for absorbing carbon emissions, reducing the impacts of extreme weather, and increasing climate resilience.
• Biodiversity Preservation: Restoring habitats will support endangered species and contribute to the survival of ecosystems crucial for pollinators, agriculture, and food security.
• Economic Gains: Nature restoration can generate significant economic returns by enhancing agricultural productivity, water security, and creating jobs, particularly in rural areas.
  • The EU commission’s impact assessment suggests economic benefits of €1.86 trillion by 2050 from restoration actions compared to the €154 billion cost.
• Sustainable Development: Aligns with global goals like SDG 15 (Life on Land) by promoting sustainable land use and combating desertification.
• Climate Resilience: Restored ecosystems buffer against the adverse impacts of climate change, such as floods and droughts, improving environmental stability.

Challenges of Implementing Nature Restoration Law

• Agricultural Impact: Resistance from farmers concerned about reduced arable land and potential negative effects on food production.
• Political Pushback: Conservative and nationalist parties may resist restoration efforts due to perceived conflicts with economic growth or sovereignty over natural resource management.
• Economic Costs: High initial investments and implementation costs may deter immediate adoption despite long-term benefits.
• Coordination Across States: Ensuring compliance and coordination between states or regions, each with varying environmental priorities and governance structures, is challenging.
• Urbanization Pressure: In rapidly urbanising areas, balancing land restoration with development needs is difficult.
• Peatland Restoration: Resistance from farming communities due to targets for restoring drained peatlands, as it may reduce arable land.

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Need for Nature Restoration Law in India

• Deforestation
  • Forests are being depleted at an alarming rate for commercial purposes, which can lead to climate change. 
  • According to the Environment Ministry, over 3 lakh hectares of forest land in India has been diverted for non-forestry use since 2008-09.
• Land degradation
  • Agricultural land and forests are the most common types of land that are degraded in India. This can lead to food insecurity and climate change. 
  • 97.85 million hectares (29.7%) degraded (2018-19), up from 94.53 million hectares in 2003-05.
  • Desertification affected 83.69 million hectares in 2018-19.
  • High degradation in Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan.
• Water pollution
  • Most rivers, lakes, and surface water in India are polluted. 
  • The main sources of water pollution are untreated sewage, agricultural runoff, and unregulated small-scale industry. 
  • Based on analysis of water quality data, CPCB in year 2022, has identified 311 polluted river stretches on 279 rivers in 30 States/ UTs in the country based on indicator of organic pollution i.e. Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) (3mg/L).
  • Groundwater in India can be contaminated by trace metals like nickel, copper, chromium, lead, mercury, and cadmium.
• Groundwater depletion
  • Groundwater storage in north India is rapidly declining due to natural and anthropogenic factors. This is a major challenge for food and water security. 
  • India extracts around 230 billion cubic meters of groundwater each year for agriculture. 
  • North India has experienced rapid groundwater depletion, losing 450 cubic kilometers between 2002 and 2021.
  • The Central Groundwater Board (CGWB) reports that 17% of groundwater blocks are overexploited, with 5% at a critical stage and 14% at a semi-critical stage. 
• Soil erosion
  • Soil erosion is a serious threat to survival and well-being in India. It occurs in forest lands, agricultural lands, and other areas. 
  • The average annual soil loss in India is 21 tons per hectare.
  • The National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning estimates that around 30% of the soil in India is degraded. 
  • Of the eroded soil, 29% is lost to the sea, 10% is deposited in reservoirs, and 61% is shifted from one place to another.
• Biodiversity loss
  • Factors that have contributed to the decline of India’s biodiversity include habitat loss, hunting, poaching, over-exploitation, and forest fires. 
  • India with 2.4% of total global land area is home for about 8% of global biological diversity.
  • The IUCN lists at least 97 mammals, 94 bird species, and 482 plant species in India as threatened with extinction. 
• Population growth
  • According to the United Nations, the current population of India in 2024 is 1,44 billion, a 0.92% increase from 2023.  It is more than four times since the 1951 census.

Challenges for Environmental Restoration in India

• Rapid Urbanisation: Increasing urban sprawl puts immense pressure on natural ecosystems, leading to deforestation, loss of wetlands, and shrinking green spaces.
• Agricultural Expansion: Intensive farming practices, monoculture, and land-use change for agriculture contribute to land degradation, soil erosion, and depletion of biodiversity.
• Industrial Pollution: Pollution from industries, including untreated waste disposal into rivers, lakes, and soil, severely hampers restoration efforts, especially in critical ecosystems like rivers and wetlands.
• Lack of Funding and Resources: Insufficient financial allocation and technical expertise hinder large-scale restoration projects, especially in rural and remote areas.
• Weak Policy Enforcement: Even though environmental laws exist, poor implementation and weak enforcement mechanisms prevent effective ecosystem restoration.
• Community Resistance: Local communities, particularly those dependent on natural resources for livelihood, may resist restoration efforts, fearing loss of access to land or disruption of economic activities.
• Climate Change Impacts: The increasing frequency of extreme weather events—droughts, floods, and rising temperatures—exacerbates degradation and complicates restoration efforts.
• Fragmented Governance: Environmental management responsibilities are split across different levels of government and agencies, leading to poor coordination and slow decision-making.

Way Forward for Environmental Restoration in India

• Legally Binding Restoration Targets: India should establish a Nature Restoration Law with legally binding targets, similar to the EU’s NRL, aiming to restore 20% of degraded ecosystems by 2030 and all by 2050.
• Integrated Land and Water Management: Adopting a holistic approach to managing land, forests, rivers, and wetlands will help restore ecosystems while enhancing agricultural productivity and water security.
• Community Participation: Involve local communities, especially those dependent on natural resources, in restoration efforts through employment opportunities, awareness campaigns, and participatory governance.
• Strengthening Policy Implementation: Ensure strict enforcement of environmental laws with stronger monitoring mechanisms and penalties for non-compliance, to safeguard restored areas.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society organisations to mobilise funding, technical expertise, and innovation for large-scale restoration projects.
• Climate-Resilient Restoration: Incorporate climate resilience into restoration projects by using climate-adaptive species and restoration techniques to address the impacts of global warming.

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Conclusion

A Nature Restoration Law would help restore ecosystems and boost socio-economic development while addressing climate change. Inspired by the EU, India’s legislation could set a global precedent in environmental governance.

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The 2026 edition, featuring only 10 sports and roughly 3,000 athletes, will take place from July 23 to August 2 in Glasgow is being referred to as Commonwealth Games Lite.

Key Challenges In Organising Commonwealth Games Lite

• Host Withdrawals: The most recent blow came when Victoria, Australia, withdrew from hosting the 2026 edition, citing financial incapacity just two years before the event. 

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• Economic Realities: The post-colonial context and economic pragmatism have resulted in fewer countries being willing to bear the cost of hosting such large-scale sporting events.
• Reduced Enthusiasm: The UK’s repeated intervention to save the Games underscores the lack of enthusiasm from other member nations, leaving the Commonwealth Games reliant on fewer, mostly Western nations.
• Sports Program Changes: Team Sports on the Chopping Block: Sports like hockey, rugby, and cricket have been dropped from the program, raising concerns about whether they will ever return.
• Emphasis on Inclusion:Despite the cuts, efforts are being made to integrate para-sports more fully into the Games, keeping inclusion a central theme.

Implications for India

• India, traditionally strong in sports like badminton, wrestling, and hockey, faces challenges with the reduced sports program.
• India won 61 medals at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games ( CWG).
  • Thirty of these came from six sports: badminton, wrestling, table tennis, cricket, hockey, and squash. 
  • None of these disciplines will feature in the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

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Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu has proposed incentives to encourage families to have more children, citing concerns over a shrinking young population.

Southern States Face Rapid Ageing Due to Early Fertility Decline

• Ageing Population: Southern states, including Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, are facing a rapid increase in the ageing population due to low fertility rates.
• Population Growth and Fertility Decline: Southern states transitioned to lower fertility rates earlier than Northern states.
  • Example: Andhra Pradesh reached the replacement fertility rate in 2004, much earlier than Uttar Pradesh, which will reach it by 2025.

Challenges of Ageing Population

• Fiscal Burden: A higher proportion of the elderly means more public spending on healthcare and social support.
• Higher dependency ratio: Dependency ratio increases as more people fall into the 60+ age group, reducing the working-age population.
  • By 2036, Kerala’s elderly population is expected to be 23%, while in UP it will be 12%.
• Impact on Electoral Representation: Declining populations in Southern states could affect their representation in Parliament after electoral delimitation, raising concerns among leaders like M K Stalin.

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Success of Pro natalist Policies

• Pro-natalist policies are government initiatives aimed at encouraging higher birth rates and increasing fertility in a population.
  • These policies are typically introduced in countries facing declining birth rates and an ageing population, where there is concern about a shrinking workforce and increasing dependency on social services.
• Limited success: Pro-natalist policies have had limited success globally.
  • Countries like Japan, China, and European nations have tried similar measures with little effect.
  • Only Scandinavian countries, with robust family support and gender equality policies, saw moderate success.

Possible Solution to the Ageing Population

• Internal Migration : Experts suggest internal migration as the most viable solution to balance population disparities between North and South India.
  • Southern states can benefit from the inflow of a younger, working-age population without bearing the cost of their upbringing.
• Focus on Economic Productivity: Instead of trying to increase fertility, a better approach is to enhance the economic productivity of the current labor force.
• Ensuring full utilization of the demographic dividend before the population ages further is key to long-term growth.

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Recently there was an E.Coli Infection outbreak in the US.

• Spread Through Fast Food: Mcdonald’s has stopped serving Quarter Pounder patties and slivered onions in several US states due to the outbreak.
  • Although the exact source of the infection remains unknown.

About E.coli

• Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a rod-shaped bacterium of the Enterobacteriaceae family, commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. 
• While most strains are harmless or even beneficial, some can cause severe infections and illnesses.
• It  is the most commonly isolated bacteria from patient samples, present in 23.19% of samples from tertiary care hospitals.
• Symptoms of E. coli Infection: Urinary tract infections, respiratory illnesses, and pneumonia
  • In rare cases, it can cause acute kidney injury.
• Transmission: Through contaminated food, water, or contact with fecal matter from infected individuals or animals.
• Treatment: Most E. coli infections are self-limiting and resolve without treatment.

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How Does E. coli Cause Illness?

• Certain strains, known as Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), produce a toxin called Shiga. This toxin damages the small intestine lining, causing diarrhoea, including bloody diarrhoea.

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The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) held a conference of Buddhist monks and scholars in Colombo on granting Pali the status of a classical language by the Indian government. 

India Recognizes 11 Classical Languages, Highlights Pali’s Role in Buddhist Heritage

• International Participation: Buddhist monks and scholars from Sri Lanka, Nepal, Myanmar, and Bangladesh attended the event.
• Significance of Pali: Scholars highlighted the importance of Pali in preserving the “Dhamma” and promoting Buddhist practices.
• Recognition of India’s Role: Scholars commended India’s decision, seeing it as a commitment to preserving Buddhist heritage and culture.
• Recent Government Approval: On October 3, the Indian government granted classical language status to Marathi, Bengali, Assamese, Pali, and Prakrit.
  • Now there are Total 11 classical Languages recognised by the Indian Government.

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About ICCR

• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of External Affairs
• Founded: It was established in 1950 by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad
• Aim: To promote Indian culture and values internationally and foster cultural exchanges with other countries
• It is also responsible for facilitating the International Day of Yoga celebrations by Indian Missions/Posts abroad since 2015
• Awards: Instituted awards to honour foreign nationals for contributions in various fields, including:
  • Indologist Award
  • World Sanskrit Award
  • Gisela Bonn Award

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The severe cyclonic storm, packing wind speeds of up to 120 km per hour, was expected to make landfall close to Bhitarkanika National Park and Dhamra port in Odisha  on 25th October.

Cyclone Dana Brings Heavy Rains and Winds to Coastal Odisha

• Heavy Rainfall and Winds: Coastal Odisha faced heavy rain and squally winds due to the approaching Cyclone Dana.
• Expected Path: Likely to cross Odisha and West Bengal coasts between Puri and Sagar Island, near Bhitarkanika and Dhamra, from midnight on October 24 to morning on October 25
• Rainfall Records:
  • Paradip recorded the highest rainfall of 62 mm
  • Rajnagar in Kendrapara district received 24 mm rainfall in the last four hours

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About Bhitarkanika National Park

• Location: Kendrapara district, Odisha
• Delta Formation: Situated in a rich delta formed by the Brahmani, Baitarani, and Dhamara rivers.
• Mangrove Ranking: India’s second-largest mangrove ecosystem after the Sundarbans
• Soil Enrichment: Proximity to the Bay of Bengal enriches the soil with salts
• Ramsar Designation: Odisha’s second Ramsar site, after Chilika Lake.
  • It obtained the status of a Ramsar site in 2002
• Fauna: Saltwater Crocodile, Olive Ridley Sea Turtles, Asian Dowitcher, Black Ibis ,  Lesser Flamingo, etc.
  • It has all the 3 species of crocodiles ie. Gharial ( critically endangered), Mugger crocodile (vulnerable) and Saltwater crocodile.
• Flora: Mangrove forests

About Dhamra river

• Joint Stream: Formed by the confluence of the Brahmani and Baitarani rivers south of Chandabali town
• Outflow: It Empties into the Bay of Bengal
• Dhamra Port: Located north of the river’s mouth
• Gahirmatha Sanctuary: Situated near the mouth of the river
• Wheeler Island: A DRDO missile launch center located off the river mouth in the Bay of Bengal

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In a historic first, a Great Indian Bustard (GIB) chick born through artificial insemination at Sudasari Great Indian Bustard Breeding Centre in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.

• Conservation Milestone: This achievement is seen as a critical step for GIB conservation, with fewer than 150 of these endangered birds remaining, mostly in Rajasthan.

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About Great Indian Bustard

• Habitat : It is a grassland species, endemic to the Indian subcontinent.Confined mostly to Rajasthan and Gujarat
  • Small populations occur in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.
• Key indicator species of the grassland habitat: It is a key indicator species of the health of grassland habitats.
• Distinguished by its black crown on the forehead.
  • Males have larger black crowns.
• Diet: Omnivorous and feeds on grass seeds, insects like grasshoppers and beetles; Occasionally they even eat small rodents and reptiles. 
• Conservation Status
  • IUCN status : Critically Endangered
  • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 : Schedule I 
  • CITES: Appendix 1

Challenges in Conservation Of Great Indian Bustard

• Population Decline Factors: 
  • The GIB’s narrow frontal vision and large size make them particularly vulnerable to power line collisions.
  • GIB Nesting: The GIB lays a single egg annually, which is large and laid on the ground, making it vulnerable to predators. 
    • The mother raises the chick for two years before laying another egg, meaning low natural reproduction rates.
• Power Line Challenge: A 2020 WII study in Desert National Park reported that power lines kill around 84,000 birds annually, including GIB. 
  • Although the Supreme Court ordered power lines in GIB re.

Conservation Efforts for Great Indian Bustard: National Bustard Recovery Plan: Plan to recover the species which was first started in 2013

• Bustard Recovery Project:  Launched in 2016, planned by the Rajasthan government as well as the Environment Ministry.
  • The Compensatory Afforestation Fund funded this project which consists of money collected for afforestation in lieu of diversion of forests for non-forest uses.

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• Tripartite agreement: In 2018, a tripartite agreement was signed between the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Rajasthan Forest Department and Wildlife Institute of India (WII).
  • They are working together on a GIB captive breeding program. 
  • The plan is to release captively bred birds into the wild in the future.
• Bustard Recovery Project involved the following conservation measures: 
  • Opening long-term conservation breeding centres (CBC) in Ramdevra and Sorsan
  • Implementing field research projects such as telemetry-based bird tracking and population surveys
  • habitats be buried, this has faced practical challenges.
• Recovery program: Prepared by Wildlife Institute of India (WII), an autonomous body under the Union Environment Ministry.
  • Rewilding Bustards bred in ex-situ conservation centres.
  • Developing artificial insemination techniques

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Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch, who had been summoned by Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) as part of its review of financial regulators, skipped its meeting.

SEBI chief is under fire over US short-seller Hindenburg Research’s report that alleged that Puri Buch and her husband Dhaval Buch owned stakes in offshore entities linked to Vinod Adani.

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About Public Accounts Committee(PAC)

• PAC is one  of the three Financial Parliamentary committees.
  • Other  two are the Estimates Committee and the Committee on Public Undertakings
• Purpose: Auditing the revenue and expenditure of the Government of India.
• Main function: To ascertain whether the money granted by parliament has been spent by the government within the scope of the demand
• Origin: Introduced in 1921 after its first mention in the Government of India Act, 1919 also called Montford Reforms.
  • With the coming into force of the Constitution of India on 26 January 1950, the Committee became a Parliamentary Committee under the control of the Speaker.
  • Now constituted every year under the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha.
• Non Binding decision: Not being an executive body it can only make decisions that are advisory by nature.
• Members: Presently comprises 22 members (15 members elected by the Lok Sabha Speaker, and 7 members elected by the Rajya Sabha Chairman with a term of one year only.
• Election Method : According to the principle of proportional representation by means of a single transferable vote.
• Appointment: Chairperson is appointed by the Speaker from amongst the members of the Committee from Lok Sabha.
  • The Speaker, for the first time appointed a Member of the Opposition as the Chairperson of the Committee for 1967-68.
  • This practice has been continuing since then.
  • A Minister is not elected as a member of the Committee.

About SEBI

• It is a Statutory body established in 1992 in accordance with the provisions of the Securities and Exchange Board of India Act, 1992.
• Origin of SEBI: Before SEBI came into existence the Controller of Capital Issues was the regulatory authority; it derived authority from the Capital Issues (Control) Act, 1947.
  • In 1988 SEBI was constituted as the regulator of capital markets in India under a resolution of the Government of India as a Non statutory body .
  • SEBI Act 1992 gave SEBI statutory backing
• Headquarters: Mumbai
• Regional Offices : Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Chennai and Delhi.
• Role: To protect the interests of investors in securities and to promote and regulate the securities market.
• Composition: SEBI consisting of the following (9-member Board):
  • 1 Chairman: Chairman is appointed for a maximum period of five years or till 65 years, whichever is earlier.
    • Process of Appointment of SEBI chairperson : Appointed based on the recommendation of the Financial Sector Regulatory Appointments Search Committee (FSRASC)
  • 2 members from the Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA)
  • 1 member from the officials of Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
  • 5 other members of whom at least 3 shall be Whole-Time Members (WTM)

About Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT)

• It is a statutory body Created under the provisions of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) Act, 1992. 
• Mandate: Body that hears appeals and resolves issues based on the orders passed by the SEBI.
• No appeal can be made to the SAT against any order made with the consent of the parties.
• Jurisdiction: To hear appeals on cases concerning the whole of India.
• Powers of hearing Appeals on Following Orders:
  • Orders of the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) in relation to cases filed before it;
  • Orders of Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) in relation to cases filed before it;
  • Orders passed by the Securities and Exchange Board of India.

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• Appeal against the orders of the SAT can be made in the Supreme Court.
  • An appeal can only be made on any question of law.
• Members of Tribunal : Presiding officers, judicial members, and technical members.
• Appointment: Presiding Officer and Judicial Members shall be appointed by the Central Government in consultation with the Chief Justice of India or its nominee.
• Tenure: Five years from the date of appointment.
  • Eligible for re-appointment for another term of maximum five years.
• No presiding officer or member shall hold office after he/she has attained the age of 70.

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World Snow Leopard Day is celebrated on October 23 of every year.

• It was started in 2013, following the adoption of the Bishkek Declaration in Kyrgyzstan where 12 countries that host snow leopard populations agreed to collaborate in their conservation efforts. 

About Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia)

• Geographical Spread: Afghanistan, Bhutan, China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. 
• Distribution: Closely aligned with the distribution of their main prey species, such as the ibex and blue sheep (bharal).
• State Animal: Recognized as the state animal of Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh in India.
• Adaptations: Known as the “ghosts of the mountains” for their elusive nature and ability to camouflage. 
• Behaviour: Unlike other big cats, snow leopards do not roar; instead, they communicate through growls, hisses, meows, and a unique sound called a “chuff.” 
• They are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk. Typically solitary, much like other cat species.
• Conservation Status:
  • IUCN: Listed as Vulnerable.
  • CITES: Included in Appendix I.
  • Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Listed under Schedule I for the highest protection.

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Ecological Role of Snow Leopards

• Controlling Prey Populations: As apex predators, snow leopards play a critical role in regulating herbivore populations, such as ibex and blue sheep.
  • This regulation prevents overgrazing, which helps protect mountain vegetation and prevents soil erosion in delicate alpine environments.
• Supporting Biodiversity: By managing herbivore numbers, snow leopards indirectly support plant diversity, allowing a variety of flora, insects, and animals to thrive. 
  • This fosters a balanced ecosystem and sustains biodiversity across the region.
• Sustaining the Food Chain: After making a kill, snow leopards leave remains that serve as food for scavengers like vultures, wolves, and smaller carnivores, contributing to the wider food web.
• Indicator Species: As indicator species, the health of snow leopard populations reflects the ecological integrity of their habitats.
  • Healthy snow leopard populations signal a well-balanced ecosystem, including stable prey species and vegetation.

Status of Snow Leopard in India

• Population: According to the Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India (SPAI) Program, there are an estimated 718 snow leopards in India.
• Population Distribution by State:
  • Ladakh (477) > Uttarakhand (124) > Himachal Pradesh:(51) > Arunachal Pradesh (36) > Sikkim (21)> Jammu and Kashmir (9) 
• Conservation Efforts: The Government of India has designated the snow leopard as a flagship species for the high-altitude Himalayan ecosystem.
• Hemis National Park: Located in Ladakh, it is often referred to as the “Snow Leopard Capital of the World” due to its high snow leopard population.

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Research has shown that toxins from these bacteria called microcystin can make animals and people sick when they come into contact with infected water of Lake Erie.

Key Aspects of the research

• Health Impact of Microcystin: Exposure to microcystin toxins, produced by harmful algal blooms, can worsen existing health conditions, including liver, gut, and lung diseases.
• Increased Inflammation in Lung Cells: When microcystin is aerosolized (made airborne), it significantly increases inflammation in lung cells, especially worsening conditions for individuals with asthma.
• Potential for Airborne Toxin Exposure: There is a possibility that microcystin becomes airborne as waves hit the shore or when boats disturb the water, potentially exposing people to toxins without direct contact with water.
• Long-term Monitoring and Sampling: Air quality samples are being collected and analyzed near Lake Erie to determine the extent of airborne microcystin exposure, marking the first year of such monitoring for the lake.
• Ongoing Community Health Study: The research includes a five-year study with 200 community members to assess how exposure to algal blooms impacts human health. 
  • This study includes lung function tests, blood sampling, and toxin measurements.
• Community Adaptation and Precaution: Local residents have become accustomed to using bottled water and avoiding lake water during blooms due to concerns over contamination and health risks.

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What is Microcystin?

Microcystins represent a group of potent natural water contaminants. 

• Microcystins that result from the blooming of toxigenic cyanobacteria are known to cause severe poisoning episodes in animals and humans when present in drinking water in sufficiently high concentration. 
• So far, more than 60 microcystins have been characterized , all of which are hepatotoxic cyclic peptides.It is responsible for poisonings of livestock and humans.
  • It can produce potent liver toxins and possible human carcinogen.
• Microcystins inhibit the activities of protein phosphatase-1 and protein phosphatase-2A.

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About Lake Erie

• Location: Fourth largest of the Great Lakes, forming a boundary between Canada (Ontario) and the U.S. (Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York).
• Key Tributaries: Includes the Detroit, Huron, and Raisin rivers in Michigan, and the Maumee, Portage, and Cuyahoga rivers in Ohio.
• Depth and Retention: Shallowest Great Lake, with an average depth of 62 feet and a maximum of 210 feet; water retention is only 2.6 years.
• Outflow and Islands: Drains via the Niagara River and hosts several islands, the largest being Pelee Island.
• Navigation: Essential part of the St. Lawrence Seaway, with access points in Tonawanda and Buffalo, New York.

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Recently, a report by Oxfam and Development Finance International was released. 

• A recent survey reveals that 90% of countries have backtracked on their commitments to reduce inequality.
• The report, which assessed 164 countries, highlights significant cuts in education, health, and social protection, as well as weakened tax systems and labour rights.

What is Economic Inequality?

• Definition: Economic inequality is the uneven sharing of wealth, income, and resources, causing differences in quality of life and opportunities.
• Types: Inequality can show up in areas like income, wealth, education, healthcare, and job access.

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Causes of Economic Inequality

• Income Gaps: Differences in wages and job opportunities create a divide, allowing high earners to grow wealth faster.
• Wealth Concentration: Wealthy people often invest in assets (like property or stocks), increasing their wealth over time.

• Limited Education and Healthcare Access: Lack of access to quality education and healthcare traps individuals in poverty.
• Policy Choices: Policies favouring business owners over workers or cutting social programs can worsen inequality.

Effects of Economic Inequality

• Social Unrest: The gap between rich and poor can lead to social tension and feelings of unfairness.
• Slowed Economic Growth: High inequality reduces spending and productivity, slowing growth.
• Health Issues: Low-income groups often have poorer health due to limited access to healthcare and nutritious food.
• Political Influence: Wealth can lead to political power, shaping policies to favour the wealthy and worsening inequality.
• Income and Wealth Distribution Insights in India
• • Top 1% Control: The wealthiest 1% in India now hold 22.6% of the national income and 40.1% of national wealth, according to combined data from income accounts, wealth surveys, and tax records.
  • Rising Wealth Concentration Since 1991: From 1991 to 2022, India’s billionaire wealth surged from under 1% to 25% of the nation’s net income.
  • Historical Context: Income inequality in India is now worse than during British colonial rule
  • Global Comparison: India ranks as one of the most unequal countries globally, with millionaires controlling 54% of its wealth. 
  • Gender Disparity: Female labour income share is significantly lower than the average in Asia

Measures Undertaken to Reduce Economic Inequality

• Promotion of Inclusive Growth
  • Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA); This initiative provides guaranteed employment and supports income stability in rural areas. 
  • Skill Development: Various government initiatives such as Skill India and Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) help youth in sharpening their skills.
• Advancement of financial Inclusion 
  • Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY); This initiative provides bank accounts to unbanked  individuals which promotes saving and access to financial services. 
  • Microfinance and Self-Help Groups (SHGs): This group encourages credit access among rural people and promotes entrepreneurship and economic mobility.
• Supporting Gender Equality 
  • Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Scheme: This scheme aims to improve status of girls through promotion of education, addressing issues of female infanticide, and encouragement of gender equality in education and employment. 

Key Findings from Oxfam and DFI Report (2024)

• Assessment of 164 Countries: Report evaluates global efforts in reducing inequality. 
  • Three Pillars of Assessment:
    • Education, health, and social protection
    • Progressive taxation
    • Labour rights and wages
• Widespread Backsliding on Commitments
  • Nine out of Ten Countries: Majority of countries are reversing progress on inequality reduction.
  • First Major Decline Since 2017: Countries have regressed across all three areas since the Commitment to Reducing Inequality (CRI) Index started.
• Major Cuts and Weakening of Systems
  • Education, Health, and Social Protection: 84% of countries have reduced spending in these areas.
  • Tax Systems: 81% of countries have weakened their tax systems’ ability to reduce inequality.
  • Labor Rights: In 90% of countries, labour rights and minimum wages have worsened.

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• Top Performers
  • High-Income Countries:
    • Top countries include Norway, Canada, Australia, Germany, and Finland.
      • These countries have lower wage inequality, high social spending, and higher tax revenue.
      • Despite high performance, 5% of their populations face catastrophic healthcare costs.
  • Best-Performing Low- and Middle-Income Countries:
    • Belarus, Costa Rica, South Africa: These nations have higher social spending and tax collection but lag in other indicators.
• Worst Performers
  • Low- and Lower-Middle Income Countries:
    • Countries like South Sudan, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Haiti, and Vanuatu rank the lowest.
    • Low tax revenues result in poor service coverage and high inequality.
    • Regressive tax systems (VAT) place the most burden on the poorest.
    • 80% of people in these countries are in vulnerable jobs without labor rights.
• Debt, Conflict, and Climate Shocks
  • Debt Crisis: On average, 48% of budgets in low-income countries are spent on debt service, limiting investment in essential services.
• Access to Essential Services
  • Universal Health Coverage: Only 65% of the global population has access to healthcare, showing minimal improvement from 2022.
  • SDG Targets: With six years remaining until the 2030 deadline for the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), access to education, healthcare, and social protection remains stagnant.

Ways to Reduce Economic Inequality

• Progressive Taxes: Higher taxes on the wealthy can redistribute wealth to support public services.
• Investing in Education and Healthcare: Expanding these services boosts opportunities and mobility.
• Fair Labor Rights and Wages: Strengthening labour laws and fair wages improves conditions for lower-income workers.
• Inclusive Economic Policies: Supporting small businesses, creating jobs, and affordable housing can close the wealth gap.

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Recently, the Central Government has enforced new amendments to the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Rules, 2024.

Rights of Persons with Disabilities Rules

• The RPwD Rules 2024, have come in the wake of the IAS probationer Puja Khedkar controversy.
• The amendments were made under Sections 100 (1) and (2) of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 and have been published in the Official Gazette to mark their enforcement.

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About Persons with Disabilities

• Under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016, “persons with disability” is defined as individuals who have a long-term physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory impairment which, in interaction with barriers, can hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others.

Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) New Rules, 2024

• Streamlined Application Process
  • The amendments aim to simplify the process for persons with disabilities to obtain disability certificates and Unique Disability Identity (UDID) cards.
  • Individuals with specified disabilities can now apply for these documents through the UDID Portal, submitting their applications to the district medical authorities or medical facilities where they are being treated.
• Colour Coded UDID Cards: The updated rules introduce colour-coded UDID cards to signify varying levels of disability:
  • White: For disabilities below 40%
  • Yellow: For disabilities between 40% and 79%
  • Blue: For disabilities of 80% or higherTimely Issuance of Disability Certificates: Medical authorities are required to issue disability certificates and UDID cards within three months of diagnosis to expedite service for applicants.

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• Permanent and Time-Limited Certificates
• • For irreversible disabilities, permanent disability certificates will be issued.
  • Time-limited certificates will be provided for conditions with potential for improvement.
• Inactive Applications: Applications that remain unresolved for over two years will be marked as inactive. 
  • Applicants will need to reapply if their applications lapse beyond this period.

Other Initiatives in India for Supporting Persons with Disabilities

• Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan): This campaign aims to make public spaces, transportation, and ICT (information and communication technology) accessible to persons with disabilities. 
  • It was launched in 2015.
• Divyang Sarathi App: This mobile application provides information on policies, schemes, and guidelines available for persons with disabilities, helping improve awareness and access to government resources.
• Deendayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme (DDRS): The DeenDayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme (DDRS) is a Central Sector Scheme of the Government of India.
  • It provides financial assistance to voluntary organisations working for the education and rehabilitation of persons with disabilities. 
• PM Daksh Portal: This portal is introduced by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD). 
  • It is a comprehensive digital platform designed to empower Persons with Disabilities in their pursuit of skill training and employment opportunities. 
  • The portal offers seamless registration through UDID, access to location-based skill training options, a wide array of job listings from across India, and streamlined administrative processes.
• Samarth and Gharaunda: The National Trust for the Welfare of Persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation (Intellectual Disability), and Multiple Disabilities is an autonomous body under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities that implements several schemes:
  • Samarth: A respite care scheme providing temporary relief to families.
  • Gharaunda: A group home scheme for lifelong care and support for adults with disabilities.
  • Samarth-cum-Gharaunda: A Residential Care scheme for these Persons with Disabilities who are orphans, whose families are in distress and Persons with these Disabilities (PwD) from households living below poverty line through its Registered Organizations (ROs) in the country.

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International Efforts For Supporting Persons With Disabilities

• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development includes specific targets for persons with disabilities under multiple SDGs, especially in education (Goal 4), employment (Goal 8), reducing inequalities (Goal 10), and creating inclusive communities (Goal 11).
• Biwako Millennium Framework: It is a regional framework for action to promote an inclusive, barrier-free and rights-based society for persons with disabilities in Asia and the Pacific.
• Rehabilitation 2030 initiative of World Health Organization (WHO): WHO promotes disability-inclusive healthcare through the Rehabilitation 2030 initiative to strengthen global rehabilitation services.
• International Labour Organization (ILO) Standards and Programs: ILO emphasises inclusive employment for persons with disabilities through Convention No. 159 on Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (1983) and promotes initiatives for equal employment opportunities.
• Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD): GAAD is celebrated annually on the third Thursday of May to raise awareness and understanding about digital accessibility, focusing on inclusive technology for individuals with disabilities.
• The Marrakesh Treaty (WIPO): Enacted by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in 2013, the Marrakesh Treaty seeks to improve access to published works for people with visual impairments, addressing the “book famine” for persons with disabilities.
• The Global Action on Disability (GLAD) Network: This network brings together donors and international organisations to align disability-related initiatives worldwide, supporting disability-inclusive development and humanitarian efforts.

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Sardar Patel’s 150th Birth Anniversary

About Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

• Birth and Early Life: Born on 31st October 1875 in Nadiad, Gujarat.
• Key Positions: First Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister of independent India, remembered for his leadership in national integration.
• Ideology: Advocated for a united India (Ek Bharat) to create a prosperous India (Shresth Bharat). His vision resonates in the Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiative, promoting self-reliance.
• Legacy: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s contributions to India’s independence, unity, and governance framework earned him the title of “Iron Man of India.”

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Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s Contributions

Contributions in the Freedom Movement

• Kheda Satyagraha (1918): Patel fought for farmers against unjust British taxes, integrating their cause into the national freedom struggle.
• Bardoli Satyagraha (1928): His leadership in resisting unjust land revenue hikes led the women of Bardoli to bestow upon him the title of ‘Sardar’ (leader).
• Advocacy for Social Reforms: Worked extensively against alcoholism, untouchability, caste discrimination, and promoted women’s empowerment in Gujarat and beyond.
• Indian National Congress Leadership: As INC President in 1931, he led the Karachi session, endorsing the Gandhi-Irwin Pact and passing resolutions on Fundamental Rights and Economic Policy.
• Quit India Movement (1942): His leadership mobilised the masses for the Quit India Movement, demonstrating his commitment to India’s independence.

Post-Independence Contributions

• Integration of Princely States (1947-1950): Patel’s remarkable achievement was the integration of over 560 princely states into the Indian Union, preventing potential fragmentation.
• Establishment of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS): Recognizing the importance of strong administration, Patel was key in founding the IAS, referring to it as the “steel frame” essential for India’s governance.
• Refugee Rehabilitation: Post-partition, Patel led efforts to resettle refugees from Pakistan, ensuring relief and stability for those displaced by partition.
• Reforms in Police and Judiciary: As India’s first Home Minister, Patel reformed the police and judicial systems, setting the foundation for a robust administrative framework.
• Formation of Unified India: Beyond integrating princely states, Patel ensured a unified governance structure across regions, strengthening India’s administrative integrity.

About Statue of Unity

• Built in honour of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
• Inaugurated on 31st October, 2018 to mark the 143rd birth anniversary of Sardar Patel.
• Tallest statue in the world (182 meters)
• Added to the ‘Eight Wonders’ of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in 2020.

PM Young Achievers’ Scholarship Award Scheme for Vibrant India (PM YASASVI)

Context: The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has implemented the PM Young Achievers Scholarship Award Scheme for Vibrant India (PM-YASASVI).

About PM-YASASVI Scheme

• Purpose: Supports quality education for students from Other Backward Classes (OBC), Economically Backward Classes (EBC), and Denotified Tribes (DNT) communities by easing financial burdens.
• Launch: Initiated in 2021-22, by merging the Dr. Ambedkar Post-Matric and Pre/Post-Matric Scholarship schemes.
• Objective: Aims to empower disadvantaged groups and promote educational continuity.
• Scholarship Details:
  • Pre-Matric Scholarship: For Classes 9-10 students in government schools.
  • Post-Matric Scholarship: For students in higher education (post-Class 10).
• Eligibility: Family income below Rs. 2.5 lakh for Pre-Matric Scholarships.
• Implementing Agency: Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

Cabinet approves ₹1,000-crore venture capital fund

Context: The Union Cabinet has approved a ₹1,000-crore venture capital fund to support firms in the space tech domain.

About the Fund

• Fund Size: ₹1,000 crore
• Objective: To support growth of Indian firms in the space technology sector
• Under aegis of: Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe), under the Department of Space

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Key Points

• Professional Management:
  • The fund will be professionally managed and focused on firms with high commercialisation potential.
  • Approximately 40 firms will be selected for funding.
• Funding Timeline & Deployment:
  • Planned deployment over five years:
    • ₹150 crore in 2025-26
    • ₹250 crore each in 2026-27, 2027-28, and 2028-29
    • ₹100 crore in 2029-30
• Investment Range:
  • Indicative Investment: ₹10 crore to ₹60 crore per firm, depending on:
    • Stage of company development
    • Growth trajectory
    • Potential impact on national space capabilities
  • Early-Stage Investments: Firms will receive ₹10 crore – ₹30 crore
  • Late-Stage Investments: Firms will receive ₹30 crore – ₹60 crore
• Objectives:
  • Prevent relocation: Address the trend of Indian space companies domiciling abroad.
  • Provide risk capital: Traditional lenders avoid high-tech sectors like space, hence this fund fills a financing gap.
  • Support private investment: Funded firms are expected to raise further private equity investments.
• Impact on the Indian Space Economy:
  • Target: Grow India’s space economy from $8.4 billion to $44 billion by 2033.
• Strategic Significance:
  • Strengthens India’s self-reliance in space tech and innovation.
  • Aligns with India’s vision to promote domestic industry in high-tech and emerging sectors.

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