Dec 18 2024

Recently the government launched a major policy called ‘Jalvahak’ to promote cargo movement via inland waterways on National Waterways (NW) along the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Barak rivers.

About the Jalvahak Scheme

  • The Jalvahak Scheme is a joint initiative of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and Inland and Coastal Shipping Ltd (ICSL), a fully-owned subsidiary of the Shipping Corporation of India Ltd (SCIL).
  • Ministry: Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW)
  • Aim: To unlock the trade potential of inland waterways, reduce logistics costs, decongest road and rail networks, and promote sustainable transportation.
  • Eligibility: Cargo owners transporting goods over distances exceeding 300 km via waterways.
  • Benefit: Offer 35% reimbursement of total operating costs incurred.
  • Waterways Covered: National Waterways 1 (Ganga River), National Waterways 2 (Brahmaputra River), and National Waterways 16 (Barak River) through the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol (IBP) route.
  • Validity: The scheme is initially valid for three years.

Inland Water Transport

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About Inland Waterways Authority of India

  • The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) was established by the Government of India in 1986 to regulate and develop inland waterways for shipping and navigation.
  • It undertakes the development and maintenance of inland water transport (IWT) infrastructure on national waterways.
  • These projects are funded through grants provided by the Ministry of Shipping.
  • The IWAI is headquartered in Noida.

About National Waterways 

  • Inland waterways are navigable rivers, lakes, canals, and backwaters that are used to transport goods, materials, and passengers
  • The National Waterways Act, 2016 declared a total of 111 inland waterways as national waterways, which include five waterways that were previously declared as national waterways.
  • Out of the 111 national waterways, 13 are currently operational for shipping, navigation, and the movement of cargo and passenger vessels.

National Waterways (NW 1, NW 2, and NW 16)

National Waterway Route River System Key Locations Length
NW 1 Allahabad (Prayagraj) to Haldia Ganges, Bhagirathi, Hooghly Fixed terminals: Haldia, Farrakka, Patna.

Floating terminals: Kolkata, Bhagalpur, Varanasi, Allahabad

Longest waterway in India (1,620 km)
NW 2 Sadiya to Dhubri (Assam) Brahmaputra River Major towns along the stretch include Sadiya, Dibrugarh, Tezpur, and Dhubri. 891 km
NW 16 Lakhipur to Bhanga (Assam) Barak River Major locations include Lakhipur, Silchar, and Bhanga.
WAI has two permanent terminals on NW-16, one each at Badarpur (on NW-14) & Karimganj.
121 km

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Significance of Inland Water Transport (IWT) in India

  • Fuel Efficiency and Cost-Effectiveness: IWT is a highly fuel-efficient and cost-effective mode of transport compared to road and rail.
    • One liter of fuel can move 24 tonnes of cargo over 1 km via IWT, compared to 20 km by rail and 16 km by road.
    • IWT reduces logistics costs, which currently account for 14% of India’s GDP (Economic Survey 2022-23), higher than the global average of 8-10%​​.
  • Eco-Friendly Transportation: IWT has minimal environmental impact, producing lower emissions compared to other modes of transport.
    • Increased use of IWT supports India’s commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to climate action​.
  • Alleviation of Congestion on Roads and Railways: IWT offers a viable alternative to road and rail networks, reducing congestion and wear-and-tear on infrastructure.
    • The government aims to shift 800 million tonne-kilometers of cargo to waterways by 2027 through the Jalvahak Scheme​.
    • Kolkata-Varanasi stretch (NW-1) now facilitates scheduled cargo movement, reducing road dependency.
  • Boosting Regional and Industrial Development: IWT supports regional industries and trade by providing economical transport options for bulk goods like coal, cement, and fertilizers.
    • Cargo movement on national waterways has increased from 18.07 MMT (2013-14) to 132.89 MMT (2023-24)​.
  • Enhanced Connectivity for Remote and Northeastern Regions: IWT improves access to remote areas like Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, connecting them to major trade routes.
    • NW-2 (Brahmaputra) is critical for transporting goods to Guwahati and other Northeastern cities​​.
  • Tourism and Employment Generation: Inland waterways serve as hubs for tourism and create jobs in vessel operations, logistics, and related sectors.
    • Kerala’s NW-3 boosts tourism through backwater cruises and supports local livelihoods in hospitality and transport​.
  • Economic Viability and Trade Boost: IWT is crucial for fostering trade through international protocols like the Indo-Bangladesh Waterways Agreement, enhancing inter-country cargo movement.
    • The Kolkata-Pandu route via Bangladesh facilitates the shipment of goods such as fly ash and fertilizers to Bangladesh​.

Global Examples of Successful Inland Waterways

  • Mississippi River System (United States): Spanning over 3,700 km, it is one of the most extensive inland waterway systems in the world.
    • Used for transporting bulk commodities like grains, coal, and petroleum products.
    • Handles over 500 million tonnes of cargo annually, contributing significantly to the U.S. economy.
  • Rhine River (Europe): A major waterway flowing through Switzerland, Germany, and the Netherlands, connecting to the North Sea.
    • Supports trade by linking industrial hubs like Rotterdam (Europe’s largest port).
    • Carries over 300 million tonnes of cargo annually, including chemicals, coal, and agricultural products.
  • Yangtze River (China): The longest river in Asia, crucial for transporting goods in one of the world’s largest manufacturing hubs.
    • Accounts for over 40% of China’s inland waterway traffic, moving goods like steel and containers.
  • Danube River (Europe): Flows through 10 European countries, connecting central Europe with the Black Sea.
    • Supports both freight and passenger transport, fostering trade and tourism.
    • Facilitates trade across 19 ports, moving bulk goods such as grain, iron ore, and oil.
  • Volga River (Russia): The longest river in Europe, forming the backbone of Russia’s inland waterway network.
    • Over 200 million tonnes of cargo are moved annually along the Volga and its canals.
  • Mekong River (Southeast Asia): Flows through six countries, including China, Vietnam, and Thailand, serving as a critical trade corridor.
    • Supports agricultural exports like rice and fisheries, especially in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta.
    • Facilitates international trade with an annual cargo volume of approximately 60 million tonnes.
  • Inland waterway network of Netherlands: The Netherlands has a 6,228 kilometer inland waterway network, including 3,310 kilometers of small waterways. 
    • In 2019, inland ships transported 349 million tonnes in the Netherlands. 

Challenges in Inland Waterways in India

  • Inadequate Depth and Navigability Issues: A significant portion of India’s waterways has insufficient depth, making them unsuitable for larger vessels.
    • Seasonal siltation in rivers like Ganga and Brahmaputra creates shoals, restricting year-round navigation. Maintenance dredging is required annually, but it remains inadequate, impacting consistent cargo movement​​.
    • Seasonal nature of Peninsular rivers. 
  • Infrastructure Deficiencies: There is a lack of modern terminals, night navigation aids, and vessel repair facilities.
    • India has only a few functional intermodal terminals (e.g., Haldia, Sahibganj, Varanasi), limiting connectivity​​.
    • The absence of night navigation systems like DGPS and RIS hinders seamless operations.
  • Underinvestment in IWT Sector: Public investment in inland waterways is much lower compared to road and rail infrastructure.
    • IWT accounts for only 0.4% of India’s total transport share, while road and rail dominate with 60% and 25%, respectively​.
    • Projects like the Jal Marg Vikas Project (NW-1) face funding delays​​.
  • Regulatory and Policy Gaps: There is a lack of integration between state and central policies, leading to fragmented development.
    • Differences in state regulations hinder the uniform development of IWT corridors.
    • Modal integration with road and rail remains inadequate, affecting last-mile connectivity​.
  • Low Private Sector Participation: Private investments in vessel building and cargo handling are limited due to high capital costs and lack of long-term cargo commitments.
    • Companies hesitate to invest in barge construction without assured traffic​.
    • Vessel-building costs are not subsidized, making private participation less viable​.
  • Environmental and Geo-Political Challenges: Rivers face ecological threats like pollution and reduced water flows due to irrigation and industrial activities.
    • Cross-border routes via Bangladesh (Indo-Bangladesh Protocol) face delays due to operational inefficiencies.
    • Energy efficiency of waterways is offset by higher turnaround times along international routes​.
  • Lack of Skilled Workforce: There is a shortage of trained personnel for vessel operations and infrastructure management.
    • India’s IWT sector lacks adequate research and training facilities, slowing modernization efforts​.

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Government Initiatives to Boost Inland Waterways in India

  • Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP) (2014-15)
    • Objective: Develop National Waterway-1 (NW-1) on the Ganga River from Haldia (West Bengal) to Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh).
    • Features:
      • Construction of multimodal terminals at Haldia, Varanasi, and Sahibganj.
      • Installation of Digital Global Positioning System (DGPS) and River Information Systems (RIS).
      • Dredging to maintain a Least Available Depth (LAD) of 3 meters for seamless navigation.
    • Fact: The project is supported by a ₹4,633 crore loan from the World Bank​​.
  • Inland Waterways Development Council (IWDC): It was established in October 2023 to develop India’s inland waterways and Inland Water Transport (IWT) ecosystem. 
    • Objective: Improving cargo efficiency, Improving passenger movement, and Developing river cruise tourism. 
    • Chaired by: The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, and includes participation from State Governments and Union Territories.
  • National Waterways Act, 2016: Declared 111 waterways across 24 states as National Waterways (NWs).
    • Significance: Provides the legal framework for developing IWT infrastructure and integrating waterways into India’s logistics network​.
  • Indo-Bangladesh Protocol (IBP) Routes: Agreement to enhance trade and cargo movement through inland waterways connecting India and Bangladesh.
    • Kolkata-Pandu (Assam) and Kolkata-Dhaka routes facilitate cross-border trade and link India’s northeast with the rest of the country.
    • The IBP route helps avoid the congested “Chicken’s Neck” corridor for northeast connectivity​.
  • Sagarmala Project (2015)
    • Focus: Develop port-led infrastructure and integrate inland waterways with coastal shipping.
    • Initiatives:
      • Establish freight villages and logistics parks near waterways.
      • Strengthen last-mile connectivity between inland terminals and major ports​​.
  • Maritime India Vision 2030: Released in 2021 by Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
    • Aims for the holistic development of India’s maritime sector, encompassing ports, shipping, and waterways.
  • Development of Terminals and Navigation Aids:
    • Construction of multimodal terminals to facilitate cargo handling.
    • Deployment of RIS (Real-Time Information System) and DGPS (Differential Global Positioning System) for safe and efficient navigation on NWs.
    • Terminals at Sahibganj and Varanasi cater to coal and fertilizer transport​.
  • Tax and Subsidy Support:
    • Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) provides subsidies to reduce operational costs for vessel operators.
    • Comparative Advantage: IWT is more cost-effective at ₹1.06/tonne-km compared to rail (₹1.41) and road (₹2.58)​.
  • Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project: conceived in 2008 jointly by India and Myanmar.
    • Objective: Link the eastern Indian state of Mizoram to Sittwe Port in Myanmar through waterways and roads.
    • Significance: Enhances trade and connectivity for India’s northeastern states​.
  • Hydrographic Surveys and Dredging Projects:
    • Regular surveys to identify navigable channels and dredging to maintain adequate depth for commercial navigation.
    • Focus Rivers: Ganga, Brahmaputra, Barak, and Godavari

Way Forward for Developing Inland Waterways in India

  • Enhanced Infrastructure Development: Focus on building and upgrading terminals, night navigation systems, and vessel repair facilities.
    • Accelerate dredging activities to maintain adequate depth for year-round navigation on key waterways like NW-1 and NW-2.
    • Modernizing infrastructure can attract private sector investments and boost multimodal connectivity​​.
  • Policy and Regulatory Reforms: Create uniform regulations across states to ensure seamless navigation.
    • Integrate inland waterways with road, rail, and coastal shipping through a National Integrated Transport Policy.
    • Streamline operations under the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol to reduce delays and costs for international trade​.
  • Incentivize Private Sector Participation: Provide tax benefits, subsidies, and financial incentives for private investments in vessel building and operations.
    • Long-term cargo agreements with industries to secure traffic and ensure economic viability of private operations​​.
  • Focus on Regional Connectivity: Develop waterways in underutilized regions like the Northeast and peninsular India to boost trade and industrial growth.
    • Strengthen connectivity on NW-16 (Barak River) and integrate it with multimodal networks​​.
  • Adoption of Green Technology: Promote the use of clean energy and fuel-efficient vessels to reduce the environmental impact of waterway operations.
    • Introduce electric or hybrid vessels to align with India’s climate action goals​​.
  • Capacity Building and Skill Development: Establish training centers to develop skilled manpower for vessel operations and maintenance.
    • Invest in research and development for innovative solutions to navigability and logistics challenges​.

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Conclusion

Inland waterways hold immense potential to transform India’s logistics landscape by offering a cost-effective, eco-friendly alternative to road and rail transport. Strategic investments, policy reforms, and private sector participation are essential to fully harness this mode’s benefits and drive sustainable economic growth.

To address the alarming decline in short neck clam (Paphia malabarica) populations, the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has initiated a stock enhancement programme in Ashtamudi Lake.

About CMFRI’s Stock Enhancement Programme

  • Objective: To replenish the declining Paphia malabarica population and ensure sustainable fisheries in Ashtamudi Lake.
  • Initiative: Release of 3 million short neck clam seeds produced using CMFRI’s captive breeding technology.
  • Project Framework: Part of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) Blue Growth Project.

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About Paphia malabarica

Paphia Malabarica

  • Paphia malabarica is a bivalve mollusk that serves as a major fishery resource in India.
  • It is commonly known as the short neck clam and is India’s first Marine Stewardship Council (MSC)-certified fishery.

Uses of Paphia malabarica

  • Human Consumption: A popular delicacy, especially in Kerala, where it is extensively consumed.
  • Shrimp Feeds: In states like Tamil Nadu, Pondicherry, and Andhra Pradesh, short neck clams are used as a component in shrimp feeds.
  • Industrial Applications: Clam shells are utilized in the manufacture of cement, calcium carbide, sand-lime, and bricks.
  • Export Significance : Short neck clams, along with Meretrix meretrix (yellow clam), contribute to 80–90% of the total clam exports from India.
    • The species has significant international demand, boosting export revenues for local communities.

Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification

  • The MSC is an international non-profit organization promoting sustainable seafood markets through certification and eco-labelling.
  • In 2014, the short neck clam fishery in Ashtamudi Lake, Kerala, became the first Indian fishery and only the third in Asia to receive the MSC certification.
  • The certification was achieved through collaborative efforts by CMFRI, WWF, the State Fisheries Department, and the local fishing community.

Threats to Paphia Malabarica

  • Environmental Pollution: Pollution in backwater ecosystems has adversely impacted clam habitats.
  • Invasive Species: Non-native species like the Charru mussel (native to South America) have replaced native species such as the Asian green mussels and edible oysters in Ashtamudi Lake.
  • Climate Change: Altered salinity levels and rising water temperatures have disrupted the natural balance, further threatening the clam population.
  • Challenges and Current Status: Over the years, the population of short-neck clams in Ashtamudi Lake has declined drastically.
    • Annual catches have dropped from approximately 10,000 tonnes in the early 1990s to below 1,000 tonnes in recent years.

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Ashtamudi Lake

Paphia Malabarica

  • Location and Geography: Ashtamudi Lake is a brackish water lake situated in the Kollam district of Kerala, India.
    • It is the second-largest lake in Kerala after Vembanad Lake.
    • It is  fed by the Kallada River and connects to the Arabian Sea through the Neendakara estuary.
  • Designated as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance in 2002.
  • Conservation and Fisheries: The lake is rich in mangrove species, contributing to its ecological importance.
    • It is home to two endangered species Syzygium travancoricum and Calamus rotang.
    • Conservation areas include Bishop Thuruthu, designated as a clam sanctuary, and Valam Ansil Thuruth.
  • Ecological and Economic Role: Ashtamudi Lake plays a significant role in supporting biodiversity and the livelihoods of thousands of fishermen.
    • The lake is an export hub for clam products, vital for the economic sustainability of local communities.
Additional Reading: Ashtamudi Lake

Recently 1 Kerala Naval Unit NCC (1K NU NCC) launched the Miyawaki urban forest project on its premises as part of the One Tree, One Cadet campaign in Thiruvananthapuram.

Key Highlights of the Miyawaki Urban Forest Project

  • Project Goal: Create a dense, sustainable urban forest along the Akkulam Lake using the globally renowned Miyawaki Afforestation Method.
  • Symbolism: The Miyawaki forest represents the organisation’s commitment to environmental conservation and inspires younger generations to engage in ecological preservation efforts.
  • Impact: The project aims to transform the area into a vibrant urban forest and serve as a model for similar initiatives across the region.

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Miyawaki

About Miyawaki

  • The Miyawaki method is a rapid afforestation technique using native species to create dense, multi-layered forests, mimicking natural forest ecosystems.
  • Origin: The Miyawaki method was pioneered in the 1970s by Japanese botanist Dr. Akira Miyawaki.
  • Basic Objective: To densify green cover by creating lush forests within small parcels of land.
  • Method Involves:
    • Planting two to four varieties of indigenous tree species per square metre.
    • Emphasis is placed on native plants that grow quickly and establish biodiversity.
  • Plants Used: The plants are mostly self-sustaining and require minimal maintenance, such as occasional watering or manuring.
  • Ideal For: The method is particularly suited for small urban spaces, transforming them into dense mini-forests that contribute to environmental rejuvenation.
Additional Reading: Million Miyawaki Project, Features, and Benefits

The Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution launched the Credit Guarantee Scheme for e-NWR based Pledge Financing (CGS-NPF).

About Credit Guarantee Scheme for e-NWR-Based Pledge Financing

  • Objective: To facilitate easy access to post-harvest loans for farmers by leveraging e-NWRs.
  • Budget Outlay: The scheme has a total corpus of ₹1,000 crore for implementation.
  • Aimed at boosting post-harvest lending, targeting a total value of ₹5.5 lakh crore in the next 10 years.
  • Eligible Institutions: All scheduled banks and cooperative banks can participate in the scheme.
  • Key Implementation Targets Under the Scheme:
    • Warehouse Registration: Increase the registration of warehouses with the Warehousing Development and Regulatory Authority (WDRA) to 40,000 within the next 1–2 years with focus on building warehouses closer to farmlands for better accessibility.
    • Awareness and Technology: Promote the scheme among farmers and stakeholders and streamline lending processes through platforms like the e-Kisan Upaj Nidhi to facilitate end-to-end financing without repeated bank visits.
    • Eligible Borrowers: Small and marginal farmers, women, SC/ST, Persons with Disabilities (PwD), MSMEs, traders, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and farmer cooperatives.

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Parameter Details OF Credit Guarantee Scheme for e-NWR-Based Pledge Financing
Total Corpus ₹1,000 Crores
Coverage Loans up to ₹75 lakhs for agricultural purposes and up to ₹200 lakhs for non-agricultural purposes.
Eligible Institutions All scheduled banks and all cooperative banks.
Eligible Borrowers Small and Marginal Farmers (SMF)

Women/SC/ST/PwD Farmers

Other farmers, MSMEs, Traders, FPOs, and Farmer Cooperatives.

Risks Covered Credit and warehouseman risk
Guarantee Fee
  • 0.4% p.a. for farmers
  • 1% p.a. for non-farmers
Guarantee Coverage
  • 85% for loans up to ₹3 lakh
  • 80% for loans between ₹3 lakh and ₹75 lakh for SMF/Women/SC/ST/PwD
  • 75% for other borrowers

About e-NWR

  • Negotiable Warehouse Receipts (NWRs) were launched in 2011 by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution.

About Warehousing Development and Regulatory Authority (WDRA)

  • The WDRA is a statutory body established under the Warehousing (Development & Regulation) Act, 2007.
  • Objective: To introduce and regulate the Negotiable Warehouse Receipt (NWR) system, enabling farmers to store their produce in scientifically managed warehouses near their farms.

Key Functions OF WDRA: 

  • Regulating warehouses under its ambit.
  • Promoting scientific storage practices to preserve produce quality.
  • Enhancing supply chain efficiency and supporting post-harvest management.

  • NWRs enable farmers to obtain loans from banks by using warehouse receipts as collateral for stored commodities.
  • Negotiable warehouse receipts allow transfer of ownership of that commodity stored in a warehouse without having to deliver the physical commodity.
  • Launch of e-NWR: Electronic Negotiable Warehouse Receipts (e-NWRs) were introduced in 2017 under the Warehousing (Development and Regulation) Act of 2007.
    • e-NWRs provide digital records of commodities stored in WDRA-accredited warehouses and offer negotiability for various transactions.
  • Uses and Integration: e-NWRs facilitate the deposit and withdrawal of commodities and enable trade transactions such as transfer and pledging.
    • They are integrated with the electronic National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) platform, enabling seamless trade and ownership transfers without requiring physical delivery.

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About e-NWR Pledge Finance

  • Pledging Process: Farmers or other holders of e-NWRs can pledge their warehouse receipts to obtain loans from financial institutions, using the stored commodities as collateral.Control Mechanism: When a pledge is marked, the e-NWR balances remain in the borrower’s account, but control over the balances is granted to the financial institution.
    • The client cannot use the pledged e-NWR balances until the pledge is settled.

Santa Ana winds and climate change are fueling wildfires in Malibu, California.

  • A 2023 study, published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), revealed that 10 of the largest California wildfires have occurred in the last 20 years — five of which occurred in 2020 alone.
    • This has happened primarily because of climate change.

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About Malibu Wildfires

  • The Franklin Fire, which began on December 9 in Malibu, California, has burned over 4,000 acres and impacted around 22,000 residents.
  • While the exact cause of the fire remains unknown, experts attribute its severity to two factors: the Santa Ana winds and the effects of climate change.

Santa Ana Winds

About Santa Ana Winds

  • Santa Ana wind is a local wind and  seasonal weather phenomenon unique to Southern California, known for their hot, dry, and gusty conditions.
    • It is named after Southern California’s Santa Ana Canyon.
  • Time Period: These winds usually occur between October and January due to seasonal high-pressure patterns over the Great Basin.
  • Impact on Wildfires:
    • Santa Ana winds intensify wildfires by reducing humidity, increasing temperatures, and spreading flames with strong gusts.
    • In the Franklin Fire in Malibu, these winds significantly contributed to the rapid drying of vegetation and the fire’s severity.

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About Local Winds

Santa Ana Winds

  • Local winds are small-scale winds influenced by local topography and temperature differences.
    • For Example: Loo (Indian Subcontinent),  Bora wind (Adriatic region)
  • They are typically short-lived and have a limited impact area.

Characteristics

  • Small Scale: They operate over smaller regions compared to global wind patterns.
  • Short-lived: Their duration is usually limited to hours or days.
  • Influenced by Local Factors: Topography, temperature differences, and coastal locations significantly impact their formation and direction.

Recently INS Nirdeshak, the second Survey Vessel Large (SVL), was commissioned into the Indian Navy at Visakhapatnam’s Naval Dockyard.

SVL Project

  • Launch: The contract for building four SVL ships was signed between the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and GRSE Kolkata on October 30, 2018. 
  • Objective: To replace aging survey vessels with modern ships equipped to collect oceanographic data.
  • Completion: The project is set to complete the construction of all four SVL ships by 2024.
  • Four Large Survey Vessels:
    • Sandhayak
    • Nirdeshak
    • Ikshak
    • Sanshodhak

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Key Features of INS Nirdeshak

  • INS Nirdeshak is the second vessel under the Indian Navy’s Survey Vessel Large (SVL) Project.
  • It is part of a four-ship SVL project, an initiative pivotal to the Indian Navy’s hydrographic and naval operational capabilities.
  • Design and Dimensions: Engineered for precision hydrographic surveys across India’s coastal and deep-sea regions.
  • Construction: Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, as part of a four-vessel project.
    • Reflects India’s growing focus on indigenous shipbuilding under Aatmanirbhar Bharat with over 80% indigenous components

Significance of INS Nirdeshak

  • Hydrographic Surveys: Equipped with advanced tools to map and analyze India’s extensive maritime territories. It will enhance capabilities in navigation, resource exploration, and defense preparedness.
  • Strategic Value: Strengthens India’s maritime security and survey infrastructure in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
  • Indigenous Capability: Marks a milestone in India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
  • Support for Nation-Building: Contributes to strengthening India’s blue economy by enabling efficient resource management and maritime trade.
Additional Reading: GRSE Kolkata

Arctic tundra, a frozen treeless biome which has stored carbon for thousands of years, has now become a source of heat-trapping greenhouse gases (GHGs) as per the analysis, ‘Arctic Report Card.

About Arctic tundra

  • The Arctic tundra is a cold, desert-like biome that surrounds the North Pole and extends south into the taiga, or boreal forest: 
  • Location: Found in the northern hemisphere, stretching across North America, Europe, and Asia. 
  • Climate: It is the coldest biome on Earth, with average winter temperatures of -34° C (-30° F) and average summer temperatures of 3-12° C. 
    • Arctic tundraThe growing season is short, lasting only 50 to 60 days. 
  • Precipitation: It receives low amounts of precipitation, with yearly precipitation of 15 to 25 cm (6 to 10 inches). 
  • Soil: Permanently frozen subsoil called permafrost, which is made up of gravel and finer material.   
  • Vegetation: Variety of plants that can survive the cold climate, including mosses, lichens, herbs, and dwarf shrubs. 
  • Fauna: Home to many animals, including herbivores like lemmings, voles, caribou, arctic hares, and squirrels, and carnivores like arctic foxes, wolves, and polar bears.

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How Does the Arctic Tundra Store Carbon?

  • Carbon Cycle: In a typical ecosystem, plants absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere through the process of photosynthesis. 
    • When these plants and animals die, microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi decompose the organic matter, returning CO₂ to the atmosphere. This completes the carbon cycle.
  • Slow decomposition: However, in the Arctic tundra, the cold climate dramatically slows down the decomposition process. 
  • Trap in ice: Organic remains of plants and animals become trapped in permafrost, which refers to any ground that stays frozen for at least two consecutive years. 
  • No release back: Because of the freezing temperatures, the CO₂ stored in organic matter is not released back into the atmosphere.
  • Storage: Scientists estimate that Arctic soils store 1.6 trillion metric tonnes of carbon, which is approximately double the amount of carbon present in the atmosphere.

Arctic tundra

Why is the Arctic Tundra Emitting Carbon?

  • Rising Temperatures: The Arctic is currently warming at four times the global rate
    • According to the report, the annual surface air temperatures in 2024 were the second-warmest on record since 1900. 
    • As a result, the permafrost in the region is thawing. 
      • When permafrost thaws, microbes in the soil become active and start decomposing the organic matter trapped in the frozen ground. 
      • This process releases carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄), which are potent greenhouse gases. 
    • Thawing permafrost behaves like frozen chicken. 
      • As long as the chicken remains frozen, microbes cannot act on it. However, once thawed, microbes break it down, leading to decomposition. 
      • The permafrost follows a similar process, releasing stored carbon.
  • Increase in Wildfires: In recent years, the Arctic has experienced an increase in the frequency and intensity of wildfires. 
    • The year 2023 recorded the worst wildfire season in the Arctic, while 2024 was the second-worst year for wildfire emissions.
    • Wildfire smoke contributes to greenhouse gas emissions while also accelerating the thawing of permafrost. 

Global Consequences

  • Impact: The combined impact of wildfires and rising temperatures caused the Arctic tundra to release more carbon than it absorbed between 2001 and 2020
    • This is likely the first time such a transformation has occurred in thousands of years.
  • Carbon Emission: If the Arctic tundra continues to emit more carbon than it absorbs, it will have significant global consequences. 
    • The emissions of CO₂ and CH₄ will further amplify global warming, accelerating the adverse impacts of climate change worldwide.

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Way Forward

  • Reduce global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to reverse Arctic emissions.
  • Lower GHG levels will result in reduced emissions from thawing permafrost, helping to restore the Arctic tundra’s role as a carbon sink.
  • Aggressive emissions reduction is essential to mitigate climate change.

India has established its first diabetes-specific biobank in Chennai, a collaboration between the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF). 

About Biobank

  • A biobank is a facility that stores biological samples ( blood, urine, tissue, and saliva)  usually from humans, for use in medical research. 
  • It plays a significant role in advancing research in fields like genomics and personalized medicine.
  • Biobanks in India
    • There are 19 registered biobanks.
      • It hosts too many biological specimens, including cancer cell lines and tissues.
    • Key Initiatives
      • Genome India Programme:  it aims to  identify treatments for rare genetic diseases
      • Phenome India Project: Focused on creating better prediction models for cardio-metabolic diseases.
      • Paediatric Rare Genetic Disorders (PRaGeD) Mission: This mission works towards identifying new genes or genetic variants to develop targeted therapies for rare genetic diseases affecting children.

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Key Features of Biobanks

  • Help identify disease biomarkers, such as single-nucleotide polymorphisms linked to specific diseases.
  • Provide critical resources for developing personalized treatments and understanding disease mechanisms.
  • Promote collaborative research by enabling data-sharing across multiple studies.

Why Is the Biobank Important?

  • Addressing a Growing Health Concern:
    • India has over 10 crore diabetes cases and 13.6 crore prediabetes cases, among the highest globally.
      • Enabling Better Understanding:
        • The biobank stores biological samples from across India, helping scientists study the genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors contributing to diabetes.
        • Findings can lead to improved treatments, preventive measures, and targeted therapies.
  • Large Collection of Samples:
    • Houses over 1.5 lakh biological samples collected from diverse regions and communities across India.
  • Based on Comprehensive Studies:
    • ICMR-INDIAB Study: The largest study on diabetes in India, covering urban and rural populations.
    • ICMR-YDR Study: A national registry focused on young-onset diabetes.

What can India Learn from other Biobanks?

  • Biobanks have significantly contributed to medical research worldwide.
    • Example: The UK Biobank, with data from 5 lakh participants, has led to thousands of scientific discoveries.
      • Similar initiatives in the US, China, and Europe focus on key areas like cancer, genetics, and rare diseases.
  • India’s first diabetes biobank will serve as a central hub for biological samples to support diabetes research but it should take various measures such as 
    • Ensuring extensive infrastructure and stringent quality control:  To ensure the reliability and sustainability of its biobanks.
    • Public Engagement and Trust: India should involve its diverse population in biobanking efforts through community meetings, focus group discussions, and citizen-expert panels. 
    • Integration with Healthcare Systems:  To facilitate better data collection and research, India should work with electronic health records. 

Challenges in Maintaining Biobanks

  • High Costs and Logistics: Maintaining samples requires significant funding, advanced infrastructure, and skilled personnel.
  • Ethical Concerns: Issues like informed consent and privacy must be addressed carefully.
  • Skilled Personnel: Needs trained professionals for handling and maintaining samples.

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India’s biobanking regulations

  • Legal Framework Governing Biobanks in India
    • Lack of Comprehensive Legislation
      • India does not have specific laws for biobanks.
      • Existing guidelines are not enforceable, leading to regulatory gaps.
    • National Ethical Guidelines by ICMR
      • The Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) has issued ethical guidelines for biomedical research involving humans.
        • These guidelines are not legally binding and do not fully address long-term storage or data sharing for biobanks.
    • Department of Biotechnology (DBT) Standards
      • The DBT has set practices for data storage and analysis.
        • However, these are not enforceable and do not adequately cover issues like informed consent and privacy.
    • Absence of a Single Regulatory Authority
      • India lacks a dedicated regulatory authority for biobanks.
        • This results in inconsistencies and limited oversight in biobanking activities.

What is Diabetes?

  • It occurs when the pancreas cannot produce insulin or the body cannot use insulin effectively.
    • Insulin Role: Helps regulate blood glucose levels.
  • Long-Term Effects: Can cause damage to organs and tissues, leading to blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, stroke, and limb amputations.

Types of Diabetes

  • Type 1 Diabetes
    • Autoimmune Condition: The immune system destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.
  • Type 2 Diabetes
    • Insulin Ineffectiveness: The body cannot use insulin properly, though it may produce it.
    • Prevalence: Accounts for over 95% of global diabetes cases.

Minority Rights Day, celebrated on December 18 annually, emphasizes the importance of protecting the rights of minorities.

About Minorities

  • The term ‘minority’ generally refers to groups differing in religion, language, ethnicity, or culture from the majority population.
  • While the Indian Constitution uses the term in several places, it does not explicitly define ‘minority.’

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Minority Rights Day

  • The UN General Assembly adopted the declaration on the ‘Rights of Persons Belonging to National, Ethnic, Religious, and Linguistic Minorities’ on December 18, 1992, which is globally observed as Minority Rights Day to emphasize the importance of protecting minority rights.
  • Theme of 2024 Minority Rights Day: “Promoting Diversity and Protecting Rights”

  • Recognition of Minority: The Supreme Court has consistently held that minorities should be identified at the State level.
    • For example, Hindus are a minority in Punjab, Kashmir, and northeastern states and can enjoy minority rights in these regions.
  • The debate on minority rights should be lifted from its current framework of communalism versus secularism and placed in the theoretical field of democracy and substantive equality.
  • Notably, Franklin D. Roosevelt asserted that “no democracy can survive without recognizing the rights of minorities.”
  • Protection of Diversity: The Indian Constitution recognizes that universal individual rights are insufficient in a multicultural society.
    • Instead, collective rights aim to create an environment conducive to the flourishing of minority cultures.
  • Judicial Interpretation: Recent judgments, such as in the Aligarh Muslim University (2024) case, affirm the constitutional guarantee of minority rights as a facet of equality and non-discrimination.
  • Minority RightsMinorities Recognised in India: In 2014, the Jain community was added to the list of officially recognized minority communities in India.
  • This brought the total number of recognized minority communities to six:
    1. Muslims
    2. Christians
    3. Sikhs
    4. Buddhists
    5. Parsis
    6. Jains

Constitutional Provisions for Rights of Minorities

  • Articles Related to Minority Rights:
    • Article 29(1): Grants minorities the right to conserve their language, script, and culture.
    • Article 30: Provides religious and linguistic minorities the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice.
    • Articles 350A & 350B: Ensure primary education in the mother tongue and appoint a Special Officer for linguistic minorities.
    • Article 30(2): Prohibits the State from discriminating against minority institutions when granting aid.
  • Personal Laws and Customary Practices: The Constitution protects religion-based personal laws, such as those of the Nagas, under customary practices.
  • Institutional Support: Establishment of bodies like the National Commission for Minorities and the National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions to address minority issues.

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Institutional Framework for Minorities in India

Body Objective
National Commission for Minorities To safeguard the interests of minority communities, investigate and monitor matters relating to their social, economic, and educational development.
National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions To ensure the protection of the rights of minority educational institutions as enshrined in Article 30 of the Indian Constitution.
National Minorities Development and Finance Corporation (NMDFC) To provide financial assistance to minority communities for various developmental activities, including education, business, and skill development.
Maulana Azad Education Foundation (MAEF) To promote and develop education among minority communities, especially in higher education.
State Minority Commissions To address the specific needs and grievances of minority communities at the state level.
Waqf Boards To manage and administer the Waqf properties, ensuring their proper utilization for the benefit of the Muslim community.

Challenges in Fulfilling Minority Rights

  • Lack of a Clear Definition: The absence of a constitutional definition of ‘minority’ creates ambiguity and inconsistencies in implementation.
  • Majoritarian Pressures: Minority rights often face resistance in a predominantly majoritarian societal framework, impacting their effective realization.
  • State Regulation: While minority institutions enjoy autonomy, the government enforces regulations to maintain standards, which sometimes lead to conflicts over administrative control.
  • Socioeconomic Inequalities: Many minority groups face systemic disadvantages that hinder access to education, employment, and social opportunities.

Landmark Cases Related to Minority Rights

  • TMA Pai Foundation vs. State of Karnataka (2002): Upheld the rights of minority institutions to admit students of their choice, subject to reasonable restrictions.
    • Clarified the extent of state regulation over minority institutions.
  • St. Stephen’s College vs. University of Delhi (1992): Affirmed the right of minority institutions to maintain their character and autonomy.
    • Recognized the right of minority institutions to set their own admission criteria, including reservation policies.

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Government schemes and programs for minorities in India

Category Scheme/Program Objective
Educational Empowerment Maulana Azad National Fellowship (MANF) Support for higher studies, particularly in science and technology fields.
Padho Pardesh Subsidizing interest on educational loans for overseas studies.
Free Coaching and Allied Schemes Free coaching for competitive exams.
Nai Udaan Financial assistance for students preparing for UPSC, SSC, and state PSC exams.
Economic Empowerment Seekho aur Kamao Learn-and-earn program focusing on skill development and livelihood opportunities.
USTTAD (Upgrading Skills and Training) Upgrading traditional arts and crafts to enhance employability.
Nai Manzil Providing skill development training and placement assistance for minority youth.
Concessional Credit through NMDFC Offering financial assistance to minorities through the National Minorities Development & Finance Corporation (NMDFC).
Infrastructure Development Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK) Improving socio-economic conditions and infrastructure in minority-concentrated areas.
Special Needs Nai Roshni Leadership development for minority women.
Hamari Dharohar Preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of minority communities.
Jiyo Parsi Supporting the Parsi community to increase its population through advocacy and medical assistance.
Waqf Management Qaumi Waqf Board Taraqqiati Scheme Computerization of waqf records for better transparency and management.
Shahari Waqf Sampatti Vikas Yojana Development of urban waqf properties to enhance income for community welfare activities.
Research and Support Corpus Fund to Maulana Azad Education Foundation (MAEF) Supporting educational initiatives for minorities.
Equity to NMDFC Strengthening financial institutions that support minority communities.
Grant-in-Aid to State Channelizing Agencies Supporting state-level development programs for minorities.

Conclusion

  • Minority rights are not just safeguards for vulnerable groups but are also essential for upholding democratic principles and equality. 
  • The Constitution, through Articles 25-30, aims to ensure the preservation of diversity while maintaining a balance between autonomy and regulation.
  • However, challenges like ambiguity in definition, societal resistance, and administrative conflicts must be addressed to fully realize the vision of equality for all communities

A study investigated and compared the tissue tropism of a 2004 H5N1 strain isolated from a fatal human case and the 2024 bovine strain of H5N1 that is currently circulating in mice and found that the two strains displayed significantly different abilities to infect different tissues.

  • H5N1 Virus Evolution: The study investigated two strains of the H5N1 virus:
    • The 2004 H5N1 strain isolated from a fatal human case.
    • The 2024 H5N1 bovine strain (clade 2.3.4.4b), currently circulating in cattle.
      The strains showed significant differences in tissue tropism and disease outcomes in animal models.

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Tissue tropism

  • Tissue tropism is the ability of a pathogen to interact with a specific tissue or cell in a host. It can also refer to the range of tissues and cells in a host that support the growth of a pathogen. 
  • Tissue tropism is a key characteristic of viruses and can affect their virulence, pathogenesis, and susceptibility to antiviral drugs.
    • For example, the influenza virus mainly infects the respiratory tract, while the Hepatitis B virus infects the liver.

Neurotropism

  • Neurotropism refers to the ability of viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites to invade  and survive in the nervous system. 

  • Tissue Tropism Comparison:
    • The 2004 H5N1 strain replicated largely in the respiratory tract, with limited involvement of the central nervous system (CNS). It predominantly caused respiratory disease.
    • The 2024 bovine H5N1 strain exhibited enhanced neurotropism. It replicated in both the respiratory tract and brain, causing inflammation in the brain and nasal cavity.Observations in Dairy Cattle
  • Transmission Hypotheses: The H5N1 transmission within and between cattle herds is hypothesized to be linked to milking practices.
  • Virus Replication in Cows: The virus in dairy cattle has been limited to the mammary glands of lactating cows. 
    • Unlike in mice, central nervous system involvement has not been observed in dairy cows through either natural or experimental infection.

Concerns and Implications

  • Cross-Species Barrier: The growing list of susceptible mammalian hosts demonstrates the enhanced adaptability of H5N1. This raises serious concerns for wildlife, domestic animals, and public health.
  • Shift in Virus Behavior: The clade 2.3.4.4b exhibits pronounced neurotropism compared to previous H5N1 strains. 
    • This shift is characterized by high viral loads in the brain and minimal presence in the lungs, accompanied by mutations linked to enhanced CNS involvement.

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About Avian influenza (bird flu)

  • H5N1 is a type of influenza virus that causes severe respiratory disease in birds.
  • Transmission: Humans are also at risk but they rarely contract bird flu. 
    • Most of the cases of human infection involve people who have. prolonged or close exposure to H5N1-infected animals such as farm/poultry workers, are at a higher risk. 
  • Cases of Human Infection: Human infections with H5N1 were first reported in 1997 during a poultry outbreak in Hong Kong.
  • Signs and Symptoms: Mild illness, manifested through eye redness (conjunctivitis) or mild flu-like upper respiratory symptoms, to severe (such as pneumonia requiring hospitalisation).
  • Treatment: The antiviral Oseltamivir
    • There are also vaccine candidates that have been developed, but not readily available, for H5N1.
  • Mortality: This could be as high as 60 per cent.
  • Potential of Pandemic: Avian influenza is not on the WHO priority list of pathogens of pandemic potential.

Mirror Microbes

Context: Recently, some scientists have started creating ‘mirror microbes’. These are synthetic bacteria whose building blocks are mirror-images of their natural counterparts.

  • Valuable applications of mirror microbes: 
    • Industrial facilities that use bacteria for decomposition or fermentation could substitute them with mirror bacteria, which are more resilient. 

About Mirror life and chiral molecules

  • In a mirror, left and right become swapped. Anything that has a handedness — left or right — is said to be chiral.
  • Chirality in Biology
    • Biological molecules have a specific orientation, much like left and right hands.
    • Chirality affects how molecules interact, such as enzymes binding to substrates or proteins folding into functional shapes.
  • Chiral molecules that are mirror images of each other are called enantiomers. 
    • Example: compound thalidomide.  The right-handed enantiomer worked as a sedative but the left-handed one caused severe birth defects.
  • Why are scientists opposing Mirror microbes?
    • Mirror bacteria would likely evade many immune mechanisms mediated by chiral molecules, causing lethal infection in humans, animals, and plants.
    • Countermeasures such as mirror antibiotics are unlikely to be sufficient to stop or reverse the spread of mirror bacteria throughout global ecosystems.
    • Inability to prevent or counter dissemination and evolutionary diversification of mirror bacteria in the wild. 

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Thus the researchers say the cons outweigh the pros in their analysis of mirror life, thereby opposing it.

 

India-China Special Representatives’ Talks

Context: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval will hold the 23rd round of the Special Representatives (SR) talks with his Chinese counterpart and Foreign Minister Wang Yi

  • Objective: To rebuild the bilateral ties following the October 21 agreement of disengagement and patrolling in eastern Ladakh (friction points of Demchok and Depsang) between the two countries.

About The Special Representative Mechanism on the India-China Boundary Question

  • Constituted In: The Mechanism was first constituted in 2003 through a joint declaration by the two countries to address the India-China border dispute spanning 3,488 km
    • The SRs mechanism was held after a gap of five years since the last meeting held on 21 December 2019 and has been conducted over the years for 22 times.
  • Suggested By: The SR Mechanism was the brainchild of the Late. former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee during his visit to China in 1979 as Minister of External Affairs of India
  • Process: SR mechanism follow a 3 step formula for the settlement of the India-China boundary question
    • Establish the political parameters and guiding principles
    • Establish the framework for a final package settlement
    • Delineate and demarcate the boundary

 

Henderson Doctrine

Context: The Supreme Court in a recent Case Titled, CELIR LLP VERSUS MR. SUMATI PRASAD BAFNA & ORS. explained the Henderson doctrine.

  • The Henderson Doctrine is a natural corollary of the Indian doctrine of constructive Res-judicata codified in Explanation IV of Section 11 of the Code of Civil Procedure (CPC).

About the Henderson Doctrine

  • Propounded in: The Doctrine was first propounded in the English case of Henderson versus Henderson, 1843
  • As per the doctrine, all the issues that arise in a litigation out of the same subject matter must be addressed in a single suit. The doctrine bars re-litigating issues that could or should have been raised in prior proceedings.
  • Henderson Principle’ is a core component of the broader doctrine of Abuse of Process
    • The Abuse of Process Rule: Litigation must be conducted in good faith, and parties should not engage in procedural tactics that fragment disputes, prolong litigation, or undermine the outcomes of such litigation.

 

Exercise SLINEX

Context: Exercise SLINEX 2024 (Sri Lanka–India Exercise) is being conducted from December 17 to 20, 2024, at Visakhapatnam under the Eastern Naval Command.

About SLINEX 2024

  • Bilateral Naval Exercise: SLINEX is a joint naval exercise conducted between India and Sri Lanka.
  • Initiation: The exercise was first conducted in 2005.
  • 2024 Edition Aims:
    • To further strengthen the maritime ties between India and Sri Lanka.
    • To promote a safe, secure, and rules-based maritime environment in the region.
  • Participating Units: 
    • From India: Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sumitra, a Naval Offshore Patrol Vessel (NOPV) from the Eastern Fleet and  Special Forces team from the Indian Navy.
    • From Sri Lanka: Sri Lankan Naval Ship (SLNS) Sayura, an Offshore Patrol Vessel and Special Forces team from the Sri Lankan Navy.
  • Other Bilateral Exercises with Sri Lanka: Mitra Shakti, which is a joint military exercise conducted between the two nations.

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Location Based: Morocco

Context: Morocco is emerging as a springboard for India’s ambitions to expand its footprint in Africa for defence exports.

About Morocco

  • Located in: Maghreb region in the Northern and Western Hemisphere regions of the Earth.
    • The Maghreb region comprises essentially the Atlas Mountains and the coastal plain of Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya.
  • Bordered by the two countries: Western Sahara to the south and Algeria to the east.
  • Coastline: Only African country with coastlines on both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
    • It is one of only three nations (along with Spain and France) to have both Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines.
  • Largest city and major Atlantic Ocean port: Casablanca: An industrial and commercial centre.
  • Climate: Most of Morocco north of Western Sahara, particularly along the coasts, experiences a typical Mediterranean climate, with mild wet winters and hot dry summers. 
  • River: Mououya River: The source is located in the Atlas Mountains and flows into the Mediterranean Sea.

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