Dec 23 2024

Recently, the Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change released the ‘India State of Forest Report 2023 (ISFR 2023) at Forest Research Institute, Dehradun.

About ISFR (India State of Forest Report)

  • Published biennially by the Forest Survey of India (FSI) under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

Forest Survey of India (FSI):

  • The Forest Survey of India (FSI) is a government organization that monitors and assesses India’s forest resources: 
  • Mandate: The FSI’s main role is to regularly survey and assess the country’s forest resources. 
  • History: The FSI was established on June 1, 1981, replacing the Preinvestment Survey of Forest Resources (PISFR), which was started in 1965.

  • First report was published in 1987; the 2023 report is the 18th edition.
  • The report contains information on forest cover, tree cover, mangrove cover, growing stock, carbon stock in India’s forests, instances of forest fire, Agroforestry, etc.

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Forest Cover Mapping

  • Definition: Land more than 1 hectare in area, with a tree canopy and density of more than 10%, “including tree orchards, bamboo, palms etc.
  • Classification of Forest:
    • Very Dense Forest (VDF): Canopy density ≥70%.
    • Moderately Dense Forest (MDF): Canopy density 40–70%.
    • Open Forest (OF): Canopy density 10–40%.
    • Scrub: Canopy density < 10 %, generally with shrubs interspersed with trees.
  • Data Source: Utilizes satellite imagery from ISRO’s LISS-III sensor on IRS Resourcesat satellites.

Key Highlights

Category Area (Sq Km) Increase (%)
Increase in Forest Cover 156.41 0.05%
Increase in Total Forest and Tree Cover (Green Cover) 1,445.81 0.18%

  • Forest and Tree Cover in India:
    • Total Forest and Tree Cover: 8,27,356.95 sq km (25.17% of India’s geographical area).
    • Forest Cover: 7,15,342.61 sq km (21.76% of geographical area).
    • Tree Cover: 1,12,014.34 sq km (3.41% of geographical area).
  • Mangrove Cover:
    • Total Mangrove Cover: 4,992 sq km (0.15%) of the geographical area.
    • Net Mangrove Cover decrease from 2021: 7.43 sq km
    • Decrease: Highest losses in Gujarat (-36.39 sq km).
    • Increase: Andhra Pradesh (+13.01 sq km) and Maharashtra (+12.39 sq km).

State Rankings: Largest Forest and Tree Cover Area

State Forest & Tree Cover (sq km)
1. Madhya Pradesh 85,724
2. Arunachal Pradesh 67,083
3. Maharashtra 65,383

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Top States by Increase in Forest and Tree Cover (2021–2023)

State Increase in Area (sq km)
1. Chhattisgarh 684
2. Uttar Pradesh 559
3. Odisha 559
4. Rajasthan 394

State Rankings: Highest Percentage Forest Cover

Rank State Percentage of Geographical Area Covered
1 Lakshadweep 91.33%
2 Mizoram 85.34%
3 Andaman & Nicobar Islands 81.62%

States with Maximum Changes in Forest Cover

Category State Change (sq km)
Maximum Increase Chhattisgarh +684
Maximum Decrease Madhya Pradesh -612

  • Carbon Stock:
    • Total carbon stock: 7,285.5 million tonnes.
    • Increase of 81.5 million tonnes since 2021.
    • Soil organic carbon accounts for 55.06% of the total stock.
  • Western Ghats Eco-Sensitive Areas (WGESA):
    • Forest cover in Western Ghats Eco-Sensitive Areas: 44,043.99 sq km (73% of WGESA).
    • Loss over 10 years: 58.22 sq km.
  • Forest Cover in the North Eastern Region:
    • The total forest cover in the North Eastern Region is 1,74,394.70 square kilometers, which is 67% of the geographical area of this region.
    • The North Eastern Region recorded a decline of 327.30 square kilometers in forest cover.
    • Mizoram recorded an increase of 178 square kilometers in forest cover.
  • Forest Cover in Hill Districts:
    • The total forest cover in hill districts of India is 2,83,713.20 square kilometers, which accounts for 40% of the geographical area of these districts.
    • The forest cover in hill districts has increased by 234.14 square kilometers since 2021.
  • Agroforestry:
    • The total tree green cover under agroforestry in India is estimated at 1,27,590.05 square kilometers.
    • There has been an increase of 21,286.57 square kilometers in agroforestry tree green cover since 2013.
    • The total growing stock under agroforestry is estimated at 1,291.68 million cubic meters, showing a 28.56% increase compared to 2013.

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India’s National Commitments Related to Forests and Environment:

  • Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement:
    • India aims to create an additional carbon sink of 2.5-3 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent by 2030 through afforestation and tree cover enhancement.
    • Current progress: Achieved an additional 2.29 billion tonnes of carbon sink since 2005.
  • Green India Mission (GIM):
    • Aims to increase forest/tree cover by 5 million hectares and improve the quality of another 5 million hectares.
    • Focuses on ecosystem restoration, biodiversity conservation, and enhancing forest-based livelihoods.
  • Community Participation: Joint Forest Management (JFM)
    • Engages local communities in forest protection, afforestation, and sustainable management.

India’s Global Commitments Related to Forests and Environment

  • United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) (1992): The UNFCCC is an international treaty aimed at addressing climate change and its impacts.
    • As a party to the convention, India is required to report on greenhouse gas emissions and activities related to land use, forestry, and land-use change (LULUCF).
  • Kyoto Protocol (1997): Operationalizes UNFCCC by mandating industrialized nations to reduce GHG emissions with specified targets.
  • Paris Agreement (2015): Focuses on limiting global warming below 2°C (preferably 1.5°C) and emphasizes the role of forests in climate mitigation and adaptation.
  • Sustainable Development Goals (SDG): SDG 15 (“Life on Land”) targets forest conservation and restoration; other relevant SDGs include SDG 14, 1, 2, 3, 6, and 13.
  • Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD): Negotiated and signed at the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and came into force in 1993.
    • Obligates India to conserve biodiversity, promote sustainable use, and achieve Aichi Biodiversity Targets, including forest habitat conservation (Target 5).
  • New York Declaration on Forests (NYDF): Launched in 2014 at the United Nations Climate Summit
    • Aims to halve deforestation by 2020, end it by 2030, and promote sustainable forest management and restoration.
  • United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD): Adopted in 1994 and entered into force in 1996.
    • Legally binds nations to combat desertification, drought impacts, and promote sustainable land management.
  • Bonn Challenge: Launched in 2011 by the German government and IUCN
    • Global effort to restore degraded lands, with India committing to restore 26 million hectares by 2030.
  • Asia Pacific Forestry Commission (APFC) (1949): A regional commission of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) that provides a forum for countries to discuss forest issues.
  • Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (1971): Recognizes the ecological importance of wetlands, including mangroves, and promotes their conservation and sustainable use.

Challenges Highlighted in the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023

  • Decline in Moderately Dense Forest (MDF) and Open Forest (OF): Significant reductions observed in MDF and OF areas across various states due to urbanization, agricultural expansion, and infrastructure projects.
  • Deforestation in Eco-Sensitive Zones: In the Western Ghats, forest cover in the eco-sensitive zones reduced by 58.22 sq km over a decade.
    • Declines in forest areas in biodiversity hotspots pose a risk to ecological balance and species preservation.
  • Forest Fire Vulnerability: Increasing instances of forest fires have led to degradation of large forest areas, affecting biodiversity and regeneration capacity.
    • Top three Stares where fire incidences have been observed the most in 2023-24 season are Uttarakhand, Odisha and Chhattisgarh.
    • About 32.06% of forests are classified as “highly fire-prone”​
  • Pressure on Forest Resources: Rising demand for timber, non-timber forest products (NTFPs), and fuelwood continues to exert unsustainable pressure on forest ecosystems.
  • Fragmentation and Habitat Loss: Infrastructure projects, mining, and urban sprawl contribute to habitat fragmentation, particularly in the Himalayan and Western Ghats regions.
  • Management and Monitoring Gaps: Lack of comprehensive monitoring and enforcement mechanisms in forested areas exacerbates issues such as illegal logging and encroachment.
  • Unsustainable Resource Use: Overextraction of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs), grazing, and wood collection lead to forest degradation.
  • Biodiversity Loss: Habitat loss and poaching are causing declines in native flora and fauna, particularly in biodiversity hotspots like the Western Ghats.
  • Pressure on Forest Resources: High dependency of rural and tribal communities on forest products exacerbates resource depletion.
  • Desertification: Deforestation contributes to desertification and soil erosion, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions.
  • Eco-sensitive Zone Reduction: Forest cover in ecologically sensitive regions such as the Western Ghats has shown a consistent decline over time.

Way Forward for Addressing Threats to India’s Forests

  • Strengthen Policy Implementation: Enforce existing forest conservation laws like the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, and ensure strict penalties for violations such as illegal logging and encroachment.
  • Promote Sustainable Forest Management (SFM): Implement scientific forest management practices that balance conservation with resource utilization, including sustainable harvesting of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs).
  • Community Participation: Enhance the involvement of local communities and tribal populations through programs like Joint Forest Management (JFM) to ensure sustainable use and conservation of forest resources.
  • Combat Climate Change and Invasive Species: Develop adaptive strategies to mitigate climate impacts on forests, including reforestation with native species and managing invasive plants like Lantana camara.
  • Expand Afforestation and Restoration Efforts: Scale up initiatives like the Green India Mission and Bonn Challenge to restore degraded landscapes and enhance carbon sequestration.
  • Utilize Technology for Monitoring: Leverage satellite imagery, GIS mapping, and real-time forest fire alert systems for effective monitoring, assessment, and response to threats.
  • Focus on Biodiversity Hotspots and Mangroves: Prioritize conservation in ecologically sensitive areas like the Western Ghats, Northeast India, and mangrove ecosystems to preserve biodiversity and enhance resilience against climate change.
  • Awareness and Education: Promote public awareness about the significance of forest conservation through campaigns like “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”.

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Conclusion

India’s forests are critical for ecological balance, biodiversity, and climate mitigation. Addressing the challenges of deforestation, degradation, and climate change requires robust policies, community engagement, and technological interventions. A sustainable and inclusive approach will ensure the preservation and restoration of forests for future generations.

This article sheds light on the Women’s Contributions to Monumental Architecture. 

What is Monumental Architecture?

  • It refers to human-made large and grand structures of stone or earth. 
    • Examples: pyramids, temples, palaces, burial mounds, and plazas.
  • These structures are often built to showcase power and legacy of civilization. 
  • Key features: Relatively large size and public nature. 
  • Significance
    • Cultural Identity: These architectures act as a symbol of national pride which reflects diversity of culture and history of a region. 
    • Tourism: These regions attract tourists from various places which creates jobs in areas of hospitality, tourism management, and conservation. 
    • Spiritual significance: Various architectures such as  temples, mosques, and cathedrals serve as a sacred place for religious practices which foster a sense of community. 

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Women’s Contributions to Monumental Architecture

  • Women have been creating monuments in memory of their husbands or to celebrate their achievements since ancient times.
  • Notable Monuments Built by Women
    • Monumental ArchitectureVirupaksha Temple, Karnataka (7th Century)
      • Built by Lokamahadevi to honor her husband Vikramaditya II’s victory over the Pallavas of Kanchi.
      • Features of temple: It is devoted to Lord Virupaksha, a form of Lord Shiva.
        • Located in Hampi within the Vijayanagara district of Karnataka. 
          • This temple is  a part of larger Group of Monuments at Hampi which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986.
        • There is an  inverted pinhole image of its tower on the inner wall. 
        • Architecture
          • It is built in South Indian architectural style. 
            • It has intricate craftsmanship and advanced engineering.
        • Main structures
          • It comprises a sanctum sanctorum, multiple pillared halls, antechambers, and grand gopurams (gateway towers).
          • The temple is triangular in shape. 
          • There are three prominent gopurams. 
            • Eastern Gopuram: It is the largest one with 50 meters high., and has nine storeys . 
            • Inner Gopurams: Two gopurams are small and located on the inner east and inner northern sides of the complex. 
          • Principal of physics applied: The Rectilinear Light Theory and the pinhole camera effect.
          • Mathematics concept applied: Fibonacci sequence,  fractals, geometry. 
    • Rani Ki Vav, Gujarat (11th Century)
      • It is a  stepwell  in the town of Patan in Gujarat. 
      • Constructed by Queen Udayamati in memory of her husband Bhima-I of the Chalukya Dynasty.
      • Located on the banks of river  Saraswati River. 
      • Listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India since 2014. 
      • Features:
        • 500+ sculptures, 1,000+ micro sculptures, and intricate geometric designs.
        • Architecture
          • Built in the Maru-Gurjara architectural style.
          • It features  an inverted temple structure with seven levels of stairs.
        • Recognition
          • Title given: “Cleanest Iconic Place” in India at the Indian Sanitation Conference (INDOSAN) 2016. 
    • Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi (16th Century)
      • It was constructed in the 1560’. 
      • Built by Biga Begum as a tribute to her husband, Emperor Humayun.
      • Located in Delhi, south of Purana Qila, near the Yamuna River.
      • It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. 
      • Significance:
        • Blends Persian and Mughal architectural styles.
        • First large-scale use of red sandstone in India.
        • Inspired the architectural design of the Taj Mahal.
      • Architecture Features
        • It is set in a classical Mughal char bagh (four-part) garden which is divided by a water channel. 
        • The tomb is a ninefold square plan with 124 interconnected vaulted chambers.
        • There is a use of Indian elements like Hindu chattris (domed pavilions). 
        • It also features octagonal chambers and high iwans inspired by earlier Delhi Sultanate tombs.  

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Impact of Patriarchy on the Recognition and Preservation of Women-Commissioned Monuments

  • Limited Visibility in Historical Narratives
    • Male-Centric Narratives: History often emphasizes monuments built by men, while women-commissioned monuments are underrepresented.
      • Example: The Taj Mahal is widely celebrated, while structures like Rani Ki Vav and Virupaksha Temple receive limited recognition.
  • Lack of Awareness and Documentation
    • Patriarchal Record-Keeping: Historical documentation frequently prioritizes male achievements, sidelining women’s efforts in architecture and culture.
  • Gender Bias in Heritage Conservation
    • Selective Preservation: Resources and efforts are disproportionately directed toward male-commissioned monuments.
    • Neglect of Women’s Monuments: Lesser-known monuments by women often suffer from inadequate preservation and maintenance.
  • Romanticization of Male-Commissioned Monuments
    • Undermining Women’s contribution:  Monuments like the Taj Mahal are romanticized as symbols of love, on the other hand, Women’s contributions are often framed as acts of devotion rather than intellectual or artistic endeavors.

Challenges in Recognizing Women’s Contributions

  • Limited Awareness of Women-Led Projects
    • Women-led monuments often remain lesser-known compared to male-commissioned structures.
    • Their rich architecture and the stories behind them are largely overlooked in history.
  • Reasons for Overshadowing
    • Selflessness of women, prioritizing work over personal recognition.
    • Influence of patriarchy, which may have diminished their contributions in historical records.
    • Selective celebration of male achievements leading to gender-biased narratives.

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Way Forward

  • Educational Initiatives: Include women’s contributions in textbooks and academic discussions.
  • Heritage Promotion: Highlight women-led monuments in heritage tours and campaigns.
  • Public Awareness: Utilize digital platforms to share stories about these monuments.
  • Inclusive Narratives: Encourage balanced recognition of contributions by both genders.

By recognizing and celebrating women’s efforts, we can create a more inclusive historical record, ensuring their architectural legacies are preserved and appreciated.

A recent study revealed that three sites located along the Denali Fault were once part of a smaller, unified geological feature which symbolized the final joining of two landmasses during Earth’s tectonic history.

Key Findings on the Denali Fault

Denali Fault

  • Geological Significance: The Denali Fault in southern Alaska has been a significant factor in shaping Earth’s geological evolution.
  • Tectonic Movement: Over millions of years, horizontal movement along the fault caused a displacement of over 483 km, resulting in the separation of this unified feature.
  • Reconstruction of Geological History: The findings indicate that three locations, the Clearwater Mountains in Southcentral Alaska, the Kluane Lake region in Canada’s southwestern Yukon, and the Coast Mountains near Juneau formed a terminal suture zone.
    • A terminal suture zone represents the final joining of tectonic plates or crustal fragments into a larger mass.
  • Wrangellia Composite Terrane: The research identifies the Denali Fault as one of the sites where the Wrangellia Composite Terrane, an oceanic plate originating far from its current location, accreted to the western edge of North America between 72 million and 56 million years ago.
  • Inverted Metamorphism: The study focused on inverted metamorphism, where rocks formed under higher temperatures and pressures are found above those formed under lower conditions, a reversal of typical regional metamorphism.
    • This phenomenon indicates tectonic complexity and aids in understanding crustal deformation and mountain building.

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Denali Fault

About Fault

  • A fault is a planar fracture or crack in the Earth’s crust across which there has been significant displacement of crustal blocks.
  • Causes of Fault Formation
    • Faults occur due to the tensile and compressive forces acting on parts of the Earth’s crust.
    • The rapid movement along active faults releases energy, causing most earthquakes.

Types of Faults

Type of Fault Description Cause/Stress Common Features Examples
Strike-Slip Fault Tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally with minimal vertical movement. Lateral Stress Horizontal displacement; minimal elevation. San Andreas Fault, California
Normal Fault One block of rock slides downward, moving away from the adjacent block. Tensile Stress Crust stretching along divergent lines ; valley formation. East African Rift Zone
Reverse Fault (Thrust) One block of crust moves upward and overlaps the adjacent block. Compressive Stress Mountain formation; crust compression. Himalayas (India-Eurasian Plate Collision), Rocky Mountains, North America

Recently, the chairman of the Mission Governing Board of the National Quantum Mission, announced that India plans to launch a quantum satellite within the next 2-3 years to enable quantum communications.

About Quantum Satellite

  • A quantum satellite is a type of communications satellite that leverages the principles of quantum physics to secure its signals.
  • Example: Micius, launched by China in 2016 was the world’s first quantum communications satellite.
    • It Generates pairs of entangled photons for secure communication demonstrating the feasibility of secure quantum cryptography using entanglement.
  • The Qunatum satellite will enable quantum key distribution (QKD), a process that ensures secure Quantum communication by detecting eavesdropping attempts and aborting compromised transmissions.
  • Purpose: Enables secure communication by preventing unauthorized interception of messages transmitted over long distances through multiple networks.
  • Relevance: The advent of quantum computers poses a threat to current security technologies, such as cryptographic security, which rely on complex mathematical problems to protect encryption keys.

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Quantum Satellite vs. Conventional Satellite

Feature Quantum Satellite Conventional Satellite
Core Technology Quantum mechanics (e.g., superposition, entanglement) Classical physics
Primary Function Secure communication (quantum key distribution) Various applications: communication, navigation, remote sensing, etc.
Data Transmission Encodes information in quantum states Qubits. Encodes information in classical bits
Security Unconditionally secure against eavesdropping Security relies on cryptographic algorithms
Current Status Primarily experimental Mature technology with widespread applications
Challenges Technical challenges in maintaining quantum states during transmission and reception Technological limitations and potential vulnerabilities to quantum computing attacks

Principles of Quantum Mechanics involved

Key principle Description
Superposition 

 

State in which a quantum particle can represent not just one possibility, but a combination of multiple possibilities.
Quantum Entanglement

 

Quantum particles interact physically in ways such that the quantum state of each cannot be described independently.

  • Enables quantum systems to exhibit correlations stronger than any possible classical behaviour.
Quantum Interference 

 

Wave-like characteristics of quantum particles cause interference effects between different probability states that can result in constructive or destructive interference analogous to the interference effects seen in waves.
Quantum Tunneling 

 

Ability of particles to tunnel through barriers when according to classical physics they do not have enough energy to do so. 

  • Principle is critical for the functioning of quantum computer hardware like quantum dots.

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About Quantum Communication

  • Quantum communication leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to securely transmit and manipulate information.
  • It utilizes the unique properties of quantum systems, such as superposition and entanglement, to enable secure transmission and manipulation of information.

Quantum Satellite

Mechanisms in Quantum Communication

  • Quantum Measurement: Any measurement of a quantum system changes its state, revealing eavesdropping.
  • Quantum Entanglement:Changes to one entangled photon instantaneously affect its pair, ensuring secure communication.

Challenges in Quantum Satellite Implementation

  • Authentication Issues: QKD lacks mechanisms to verify the source of transmission.
  • Hardware Limitations: Difficulties in upgrading and patching quantum communication devices.
  • Denial-of-Service (DoS) Risks: Eavesdroppers can interrupt transmissions by triggering the abort mechanism.
  • Infrastructure Costs: High setup and maintenance costs for QKD networks.Signal Loss: Atmospheric and distance-related attenuation affects photon transmission reliability.
    • India’s Advancements in Quantum Satellite Technology

National Quantum Mission (NQM)

  • The National Quantum Mission (NQM) was established in 2023 by the Indian government with a budget of Rs. 6003.65 crore for a period of eight years.
  • The mission aims to foster research and development in quantum technologies, with a focus on developing quantum computers, sensors, and communication systems

Objectives of the NQM: 

  • Advancing Quantum Technologies: Harness quantum mechanics for next-generation communication and sensing systems.
  • Enhancing Security: Facilitate encrypted communication resilient to interception, especially in the era of quantum computing.
  • Research & Development: Establish India as a global leader in quantum technologies through focused research and satellite-based experimentation.

India’s Advancements in Quantum Satellite Technology

  • Studies at the Raman Research Institute in Bengaluru identified Hanle, Ladakh, as an optimal site for establishing satellite based Quantum Communication systems as  it has low signal loss.
  • India’s National Quantum Mission is set to focus on overcoming technological and logistical challenges.

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Way forward

  • While quantum cryptography shows immense promise, experts advocate for integrating it with post-quantum cryptography which are advanced classical techniques designed to withstand quantum computing attacks.
  • This approach ensures robust and scalable security frameworks in the quantum era.

Speed Gun

Speed guns are being increasingly used to monitor speeding vehicles, ensuring traffic safety and enforcing speed regulations.

About Speed Gun

  • A speed gun is a device used to measure the speed of a moving object without direct contact.
  • It operates by emitting electromagnetic radiation, which reflects off the moving object.
  • The device calculates the object’s speed using the Doppler effect.
  • Speed guns were originally developed during World War II for military purposes and later adapted for civilian use.

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Working Mechanism of Speed Gun

Speed Gun

  • Doppler Effect: The principle behind speed guns relies on the Doppler effect, discovered by Austrian physicist Christian Doppler.
  • When an object moves towards or away from the speed gun, the frequency of the reflected waves changes.
    • Approaching object: Frequency increases.
    • Receding object: Frequency decreases.
  • The difference in frequency is used to calculate the object’s speed.

Speed Gun

Types of speed Guns

Aspect Radar Speed Guns LIDAR Speed Guns
Technology Used Use radio waves to measure speed. Use laser light (Light Detection and Ranging).
Accuracy Lower accuracy due to radio wave divergence. Higher accuracy due to minimal beam divergence.
Targeting May struggle with multiple objects due to wave spread. Better suited for specific targeting with focused beams.
Primary Application Commonly used for traffic speed monitoring. Preferred for applications requiring precise measurements.
Components Contains a transmitter for radio waves and a receiver for reflected waves. Contains a laser emitter and a detector for reflected beams.
Operation Calculates speed using the Doppler effect based on radio wave frequency shifts. Calculates speed based on changes in laser light frequency.
Limitations Susceptible to interference and inaccuracies in crowded environments. More expensive and sophisticated but highly accurate.

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Applications of Speed Gun

  • Traffic Monitoring: Used by law enforcement to measure vehicle speeds and enforce traffic regulations.
  • Sports: Used by coaches and trainers to measure the speed of balls, athletes, or vehicles in sports like cricket, baseball, and racing.
  • Industrial Uses: Employed in industries requiring precise motion tracking, such as manufacturing or logistics.

The Union Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change inaugurated the Advanced Facility for Pashmina Certification and Next-Generation DNA Sequencing (NGS) Facility  at the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun. 

About the Next-Generation DNA Sequencing (NGS) Facility

  • NGS enables rapid decoding of entire genomes and analyses millions of DNA sequences simultaneously.
  • Provides insights into genetic diversity, evolutionary relationships, and population health.

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Wildlife Institute of India (WII),Dehradun

  • The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) is a premier institution dedicated to wildlife research, education, and conservation in India.
  • Established in 1982, WII is an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India.

  • Applications in Wildlife Conservation:
    • Identifies population genetic health and genetic diversity.
    • Studies genetic barriers and their impacts.
    • Helps in understanding disease outbreaks and detecting illegal wildlife trade.
    • Evaluates effects of climate change on biodiversity.
  • DNA SequencingImpact on Research:
    • Establishes WII as a leading molecular and genetic research centre.
    • Facilitates studies in biodiversity genomics, population genetics, and disease surveillance.
    • NGS facility supports research on:
      • Genetic adaptation to climate change.
      • Pathogen-host interactions.
      • Conservation strategies for endangered species, including tigers, elephants, and riverine dolphins.

Pro and Con of NGS facility

Pros:

  • High throughput: NGS can sequence a massive amount of DNA in a short time, allowing for the analysis of many genes simultaneously.
  • Cost-effective (in the long run): While initial investment is high, the cost per sample decreases significantly when processing large batches.
  • Improved patient care: Enables more accurate diagnoses, personalized treatment plans, and improved disease management.
Cons:

  • High initial investment: Requires substantial infrastructure (computers, storage, specialized equipment).
  • Data analysis challenges: Demands highly skilled personnel to analyze and interpret the vast amount of data generated.
  • Potential for data overload: Managing and extracting clinically relevant information from the massive datasets can be complex.

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About Pashmina Certification Centre (PCC)

  • Established under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model between WII and the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH).

About  Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH)

  • EPCH is an apex body of handicrafts exporters for promotion of exports of handicrafts and allied products and project India’s image as a reliable supplier of high quality handcrafted goods and merchandise.
  • It was  established in 1986-87 under the Companies Act.
  • Objective: To promote, support, and increase the export of handicrafts from India.
  • Key Activities:
    • Organizing the Indian Handicrafts & Gifts Fair (IHGF)  which is a major international trade fair.
    • Promoting Indian handicrafts in international markets.
    • Supporting skill development and capacity building of artisans.
    • Providing information and assistance to exporters.

  • Certified over 15,000 Pashmina shawls in a year, ensuring authenticity and absence of mixed fibers.
  • New features include a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) for precise wool testing and certification.
  • Significance  of PCC
    • Economic Impact: Promotes self-reliance in traditional handicrafts.
      • Supports livelihoods of artisans and weavers, especially in Jammu & Kashmir.
    • Global Market Credibility: Enhances credibility of certified Pashmina products in national and international markets.
      • Ensures fair trade practices and discourages prohibited fibers like Shahtoosh as the shawl made up of pashmina wool was promoted as an alternative to Shahtoosh shawl
    • Conservation Contributions: Discourages illegal trade in Shahtoosh wool, aiding in the conservation of Tibetan antelope (Chiru).
      • As per the IUCN, the species is currently categorized as Near Threatened

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About Pashmina 

  • Pashmina is renowned for its exceptional softness, warmth, and luxurious feel.
  • The word pashmina is originated from a word ‘pashm’ means ‘soft gold’ in local language, and ‘wool’ in Persian language
  • Originates from the undercoat of the Changthangi goat, a breed found in the high altitudes of the Himalayas in regions like Ladakh, India.
  • GI Tag Certificate: Kashmir Pashmina has received Geographical Indication (GI) certification, recognizing its unique origin and quality.
  • Animal Used: Changthangi goat (Capra aegagrus hircus), also known as the Pashmina goat.
    • Pashmina goats shed their 80–170g winter undercoat naturally each spring, collected through combing during the moulting season.

With mumps cases steadily rising, Tamil Nadu has requested the Centre to include the Mumps-Measles-Rubella (MMR) vaccine in the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP). 

Need of Mumps-Measles-Rubella (MMR) vaccine

  • Tamilnadu  currently records 150–200 mumps cases monthly, with 1,091 cases reported in 2023–24, a sharp increase compared to previous years.
  • A study in the Tamil Nadu Journal of Public Health and Medical Research highlighted that most cases occurred in children aged 6–9 years (40%) and under 5 years (33%), with women accounting for more than half of the total cases.
  • Tamil Nadu’s Directorate of Public Health has emphasized that including the mumps component in routine immunisation would help control its spread and mitigate risks. 
  • Currently, the State’s UIP covers 11 vaccines for 12 preventable diseases, including measles and rubella, with the MR vaccine introduced in 2017.

Universal Immunization Programme (UIP)

  • UIP is a GoI immunization programme Launched in 1985.
  • Aims to provide free immunization against 12 vaccine-preventable diseases.
  • Covers diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, measles, rubella, tuberculosis, hepatitis B, rotavirus, Japanese encephalitis, pneumonia, and meningitis.

Mission Indradhanush (MI):

  • Launched in 2014 with focuses on improving immunization coverage in all states and union territories.
  • Aims to reach every child who has been left out of routine immunization.
  • Specifically targets unvaccinated and partially vaccinated children under the age of two.

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About Mump Disease

Mumps Vaccine

  • Mumps is a viral infection, primarily affecting the salivary glands, causing swelling and pain. While generally mild in children, it can have serious complications in adults.
  • Cause: Caused by the Paramyxovirus( mumps virus) , transmitted through respiratory droplets (coughing, sneezing).
  • Symptoms: Fever, Headache, Muscle aches, Fatigue and  Loss of appetite with swollen and tender salivary glands (parotid glands, under the ears)
    • In some cases it also leads to  Orchitis (inflammation of the testicles), meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord), encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).
  • Prevention through Immunization:
    • The most effective way to prevent mumps is through vaccination with the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine.
    • Two doses of the MMR vaccine are typically recommended, usually given during childhood.
    • High vaccination coverage within a community is crucial to achieve herd immunity and minimize outbreaks.
Additional Reading: UIP

Recently concerns were raised over slow or no progress in green deposits in India, even after a year of regulatory framework by the RBI. 

  • Over 20 months since its introduction, banks still face hurdles in pricing and public engagement. It is being debated whether the Indian economy should consider any alterations.
  • SBI’s green deposit scheme, launched last fiscal, garnered only Rs 22.39 crore, a small amount for the country’s largest lender, as revealed in its annual sustainability report.
  • Bank of Baroda (BoB) has performed significantly better than SBI in attracting green deposits, accumulating Rs 106.69 crore through over 12,000 accounts since launching its scheme.

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  • RBI Framework: Last year, RBI unveiled the framework for banks & NBFCs to accept green deposits that will invest in environment-friendly projects.
    • Deposit Options: According to the RBI framework, banks will offer green deposits as either cumulative or non-cumulative options
    • Maturity Options: Upon maturity, depositors can choose to renew or withdraw their green deposits.
    • Currency: Green deposits will be denominated exclusively in Indian rupees.
    • Applicability: The framework applies to all scheduled commercial banks and small finance banks (except regional rural banks and local area banks), as well as non-banking finance companies, including housing finance companies.

About Green Deposits

  • It is a fixed-term deposit for investors looking to invest their surplus cash reserves in environment-friendly projects.
  • It aims to prevent greenwashing, which refers to making misleading claims about the positive environmental impact of an activity.
  • It can fund projects in sectors such as renewable energy, waste management, clean transportation, energy efficiency, and afforestation.
  • Projects involving fossil fuels, nuclear power, and tobacco are excluded from green deposit financing.

Reasons for such poor performance

  • Lack of Incentives for Banks:
    • Green deposits are long-term deposits meant to fund environmentally friendly projects.
    • Banks currently lack incentives to promote these deposits compared to regular deposits.
    • For example, a lower Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) or Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR) on green deposits could encourage banks to offer them.
  • Limited Customer Interest: 
    • Customers prioritize return on investment over the environmental impact of their deposits.
    • Green deposits often offer slightly lower interest rates compared to traditional deposits.
  • Limited Project Scope: 
    • Design flaws in green deposit schemes restrict the range of eligible green projects for bank investment.
  • Perceived Ineffectiveness: 
    • Green investment products are sometimes perceived as merely symbolic, offering investors a feel-good factor without significant positive environmental impact.
  • Project Sustainability Concerns: 
    • The long-term viability and sustainability of projects funded by green deposits are uncertain.
  • Internal Knowledge Gaps: 
    • Insufficient awareness among bank staff about green deposit procedures hinders efficient processing.

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Way Forward

  1. Addressing Design Flaws and Expanding Project Scope:
    • Clear Green Taxonomy: Establish a well-defined and comprehensive green taxonomy that clearly outlines eligible green projects across various sectors. This will provide clarity to banks and investors about what qualifies as a green investment.  
    • Expand Eligible Sectors: Broaden the scope of eligible green projects beyond traditional areas like renewable energy to include sustainable agriculture, waste management, green buildings, and other environmentally beneficial activities.
    • Standardized Framework: Develop a standardized framework for green deposit schemes, including clear criteria for project evaluation, monitoring, and reporting.  
  2. Enhancing Perceived Effectiveness and Transparency:
    • Impact Reporting: Mandate regular and transparent reporting on the environmental impact of projects funded by green deposits. This will demonstrate the tangible benefits of these investments and build trust among investors.  
    • Third-Party Verification: Encourage independent third-party verification of green projects to ensure their environmental integrity and prevent greenwashing.  
    • Public Awareness Campaigns: Conduct public awareness campaigns to educate investors about the importance of green finance and the positive impact of green deposits.
  3. Ensuring Project Sustainability:
    • Robust Project Appraisal: Implement rigorous project appraisal processes to assess the long-term viability and sustainability of green projects before funding.
    • Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish mechanisms for ongoing monitoring and evaluation of funded projects to ensure they continue to meet environmental standards and achieve their intended outcomes.
    • Risk Mitigation Measures: Develop risk mitigation strategies to address potential challenges and ensure the long-term success of green projects.
  4. Improving Staff Awareness:
    • Training Programs: Conduct regular training programs for bank staff to educate them about green deposit schemes, procedures, and their importance in promoting sustainable finance.
    • Dedicated Green Finance Teams: Establish dedicated green finance teams within banks to handle green deposits and related activities.
  5. Addressing Investor Concerns about Returns:
    • Incentives for Green Deposits: Offer attractive incentives for green deposits, such as slightly higher interest rates, tax benefits, or other preferential terms.  
    • Green Bonds and Other Products: Develop a wider range of green investment products, such as green bonds and green mutual funds, to cater to different investor preferences and risk appetites.
    • Bundling with Other Benefits: Consider bundling green deposits with other benefits, such as discounts on green products or services, to enhance their appeal.

Conclusion

India needs to create a more robust & effective ecosystem for green deposits & and investor-attractive schemes to ensure environment-friendly investment in projects and to achieve climate goals (SDG 7 and 9).

Strengthening Multimodal and Integrated Logistics Ecosystem (SMILE) Program

Context: The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has signed a $350 million policy-based loan under the second subprogram of the SMILE program.

  • Signatories: Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Commerce and Industry &  the ADB.

About The SMILE Program

  • It is a programmatic policy-based loan (PBL) program which aims to  support the government’s undertaking of wide ranging reforms in the logistics sector in India.
    • Subprograms: The programmatic approach comprises two subprograms, which aim to expand India’s manufacturing sector and improve the resilience of its supply chains.
  • The program is fully aligned with ADB’s India Country Partnership Strategy, 2018-2022.
  • Objective:
    • To strengthen the institutional bases for multimodal logistics infrastructure development at the national, state, and city levels
    • To standardize warehousing and other logistics assets to strengthen supply chains and incentivize greater private sector investment
    • To improve efficiencies in external trade logistics
    • To adopt smart systems for efficient and low emission logistics.

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About Asian Development Bank (ADB)

  • It is a multilateral development bank established with the objective of poverty eradication in its  member countries.
  • Headquarters: Manila, Philippines.
  • Established: The Bank was established in 1966 with 31 founding members.
    • India was one of the founding members in 1966.
  • Membership: Presently, ADB has 68 members (49 are from within Asia and the Pacific and 19 outside)
  • Shareholders: ADB’s five largest shareholders are Japan and the United States (each with 15.6% of total shares), the People’s Republic of China (6.4%), India (6.3%), and Australia (5.8%).

 

India’s First Bio-Bitumen National Highway Inaugurated

Recently, The Union Transport Minister inaugurated India’s First National Highway constructed using Bio- Bitumen material in  Nagpur-Mansar Bypass project of National Highway 44 in Nagpur District.

  • This is the first national highway in the country built using bitumen made from crop residues -lignin.
  • This road made from bio-bitumen is 40 percent stronger than a traditional asphalt road.

About Bio-bitumen

  • Also known as bio-asphalt; Bio-bitumen is a sustainable alternative to traditional fossil-fuel-based bitumen.
  • It is petroleum-free manufactured from organic materials such as bio-char, bio-oil, and similar substances.
  • It can be used either to supplement bitumen or to lessen the amount of bitumen in the binder mixture.
  • Benefits: Reduce the cost of road construction, generate employment and curb pollution due to stubble burning. 

About Bitumen

  • Bitumen is a black substance derived primarily from crude oil. 
  • It consists of complex hydrocarbons and includes elements such as calcium, iron, sulfur, and oxygen
  • Bitumen is renowned for its ability to provide waterproofing and adhesive properties. 
  • It makes it a vital material in the construction sector.

 

UN Internal Justice Council

Retired Supreme Court judge Madan B Lokur has been appointed chairperson of the United Nations Internal Justice Council.

About United Nations Internal Justice Council

  • Appointment: Comprises Five members: Appointed by Secretary-General.
    • Staff representative 
    • Management representative 
    • 2 distinguished external jurists
    • One nominated by the staff and one by management 
  • Other four members on the list are from Uruguay, Australia, Austria and United States of America
  • Appointment Process: Chair is a distinguished jurist chosen By consensus by the four other members. 
  • Function: Responsible for handling the administration of the UN’s internal justice system  which includes the Office of Staff Legal Assistance (OSLA), the UN Dispute Tribunal (UNDT) and the UN Appeals Tribunal (UNAT).

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Office of Staff Legal Assistance (OSLA)

  • Established: 2009 
  • Aim: To provide legal advice and representation to United Nations staff members (and former staff or affected dependents) who wish to appeal an adverse administrative decision, or who are subject to disciplinary action

United Nations Dispute Tribunal (UNDT)

  • Court of first instance in the UN’s internal justice system
  • It handles disputes and disciplinary matters between the UN and its staff members 
  • Administration can appeal the UNDT’s judgments to the UN Appeals Tribunal (UNAT).

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