14th March 2025-Current Affairs

1. Bharat 6G Alliance – Science and Technology

Why in News?

• The Prime Minister unveiled the “Bharat 6G Vision”, aiming to position India as a global leader in 6G technology by 2030.
• Bharat 6G Alliance (B6GA) is a collaborative initiative involving public & private enterprises, academic institutions, research bodies, and standardization agencies.

Objectives of Bharat 6G Alliance (B6GA)

Operationalization of 6G Technology

Spectrum Allocation for 6G

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is assessing new spectrum bands for 6G:

• Potential 6G Spectrum Bands:
  • 4400-4800 MHz
  • 7125-8400 MHz
  • 14.8-15.35 GHz

Final decision on 6G spectrum allocation to be made at WRC-27 (World Radiocommunication Conference, 2027).

• Existing IMT (2G-6G) Spectrum Bands in India: 600 MHz to 26 GHz.

Significance of Bharat 6G Alliance

1. Economic & Technological Self-Reliance

• Reduces dependency on Western telecom technologies.
• Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat in telecommunications.

2. Enhancing Digital Connectivity

• Improves 5G & 6G adoption in rural & urban India.
• Enables faster, ultra-low-latency communication.

3. Strengthening National Security

• Prevents foreign telecom dominance & protects critical communication networks.

4. Boosting India’s Global Leadership

• Positions India as a key player in global telecom innovation & policymaking.

Relevance for Exam

1. Science & Technology

• India’s advancements in next-gen telecom technology.
• 6G applications in AI, quantum computing & cybersecurity.

2. Economy & Digital Transformation

• Impact on India’s digital economy & infrastructure growth.
• Boosting R&D & manufacturing in telecom.

3. Governance & National Security

• Telecom self-reliance & cyber-security implications.
• Government’s regulatory role in 6G standardization.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. Which of the following is a key objective of the Bharat 6G Alliance?
   a) Foster global collaboration on 6G ✅
   b) Develop 4G network in India
   c) Establish fiber optic connectivity for 3G networks
   d) Expand satellite communication for 5G
2. Which organization is responsible for finalizing global spectrum bands for 6G?
   a) TRAI
   b) International Telecommunication Union (ITU) ✅
   c) ISRO
   d) IEEE
3. Which spectrum band is under consideration for 6G deployment?
   a) 4400-4800 MHz ✅
   b) 1800-2200 MHz
   c) 2300-2500 MHz
   d) 3300-3500 MHz
4. What is a major focus area of India’s 6G research?
   a) High-speed broadband expansion
   b) Terahertz communication & AI-driven networks ✅
   c) Satellite-based 4G services
   d) Cloud computing & storage solutions
5. Which statement about the Bharat 6G Alliance is correct?
   a) It is led only by private telecom companies
   b) It includes public-private partnerships, research institutions & standardization bodies ✅
   c) It focuses only on telecom manufacturing
   d) It is a global consortium based in the US

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Discuss the objectives and significance of the Bharat 6G Alliance. How can it help India become a global telecom leader?
2. How does 6G technology differ from 5G? Analyze its potential applications and challenges in India.
3. Examine the role of spectrum allocation in the development of 6G technology. What challenges does India face in securing spectrum for future telecom advancements?
4. Discuss the impact of 6G on India’s digital economy and national security. What policy measures should the government adopt for its successful deployment?
5. Explain the role of international organizations like the ITU and WRC-27 in shaping global 6G standards. How should India position itself in these discussions?

Previous Year Question (PYQ) on Communication Technology

With reference to communication technologies, what is/are the difference(s) between LTE (Long-Term Evolution) and VoLTE (Voice over Long-Term Evolution)?

1. LTE is often marketed as 3G, while VoLTE is marketed as advanced 3G.
2. LTE is a data-only technology, whereas VoLTE is designed for voice calls.
3. VoLTE requires an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) network for facilitating voice calls.

Select the correct answer using the code below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only ✅
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Final Takeaway

• Bharat 6G Alliance (B6GA) aims to make India a global leader in 6G technology by 2030.
• Focuses on R&D, spectrum allocation, standardization & telecom self-reliance.
• ITU & WRC-27 play a key role in 6G spectrum decisions.
• 6G technology will drive India’s digital economy, AI, quantum communication & cybersecurity.
• India’s leadership in telecom standardization will boost Atmanirbhar Bharat & global innovation partnerships.

2. MAHASAGAR: Vision for the Global South – International Relations

Why in News?

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the ‘MAHASAGAR’ initiative (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) during his visit to Mauritius in March 2025.
• MAHASAGAR expands India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) policy, aiming to enhance security, trade, and development cooperation across the Global South.
• Counters China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific through India-led regional partnerships.

Key Objectives of MAHASAGAR

MAHASAGAR vs. SAGAR: Key Differences

Geographic Scope of MAHASAGAR

• Primary Regions Covered:
  • Indian Ocean Region (IOR) – Mauritius, Seychelles, Maldives, Sri Lanka.
  • Africa & Latin America – Strengthening South-South cooperation.
  • Pacific Island Nations – Expanding India’s Indo-Pacific influence.
  • ASEAN Countries – Maritime security & economic partnerships.

• Strategic Partnerships:
  • IORA (Indian Ocean Rim Association) – Key regional framework.
  • BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical & Economic Cooperation) – Strengthens connectivity.

Security & Economic Pillars of MAHASAGAR

1. Security & Defense Cooperation

• Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) – Real-time tracking of sea activities.
• Joint Naval Exercises – Expanding naval ties with friendly nations.
• Anti-Piracy & Counterterrorism Efforts – Enhancing regional stability.
• Coastal Security Capacity Building – Training programs for partner nations.

2. Economic & Developmental Focus

• Blue Economy – Promoting sustainable ocean-based industries.
• Infrastructure Development – Port modernization & connectivity projects.
• Trade & Investment Corridors – Boosting commerce with Africa, ASEAN & Latin America.

Diplomatic Strategy of MAHASAGAR

• Championing Global South Representation in Multilateral Forums:
  • Strengthening India’s leadership in G20, BRICS, UN & WTO.
  • Advocating for equitable development & fair trade policies.
• Deepening India’s Influence in the Indo-Pacific:
  • Supporting free & open Indo-Pacific strategies.
  • Enhancing regional connectivity & digital cooperation.

Why is MAHASAGAR Important for India?

1. Countering China’s Influence

• China’s growing presence in the Indian Ocean through Belt & Road Initiative (BRI).
• India providing an alternative development model through trade & security cooperation.

2. Strengthening India’s Leadership in the Global South

• Gives voice to developing nations in international policy decisions.
• Expands India’s strategic partnerships beyond South Asia.

3. Enhancing Maritime Security & Economic Growth

• Prevents piracy, illegal fishing & security threats in the Indian Ocean.
• Boosts India’s economic engagement with Africa & Latin America.

Relevance for Exam

1. International Relations & Diplomacy

• India’s maritime strategy & Indo-Pacific policy.
• Role of India in Global South leadership.

2. Security & Geopolitical Strategy

• Maritime security & countering China’s influence in the IOR.
• Defense cooperation & naval expansion.

3. Economic & Trade Cooperation

• Blue economy & regional connectivity projects.
• Trade partnerships with Africa & Latin America.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. Which initiative aims to expand India’s security & trade engagement with the Global South?
   a) SAGAR
   b) MAHASAGAR ✅
   c) Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF)
   d) Indian Ocean Rim Trade Pact
2. Which of the following is NOT a key focus area of MAHASAGAR?
   a) Maritime security cooperation
   b) Space technology collaboration ✅
   c) Blue economy development
   d) Trade facilitation in the Indo-Pacific
3. Which regional group is closely associated with India’s MAHASAGAR initiative?
   a) NATO
   b) IORA (Indian Ocean Rim Association) ✅
   c) SAARC
   d) QUAD
4. MAHASAGAR aims to strengthen India’s partnerships with which regions?
   a) Africa & Latin America
   b) Indo-Pacific
   c) ASEAN & Pacific Islands
   d) All of the above ✅
5. Which of the following statements about MAHASAGAR is correct?
   a) It focuses only on India’s neighborhood.
   b) It expands India’s SAGAR policy to include trade & economic cooperation. ✅
   c) It is a military-only initiative.
   d) It is part of the Belt & Road Initiative (BRI).

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. What are the objectives of India’s MAHASAGAR initiative? How does it strengthen India’s leadership in the Global South?
2. Discuss how MAHASAGAR differs from SAGAR. How does it enhance India’s maritime strategy?
3. Analyze the role of MAHASAGAR in countering China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
4. How does MAHASAGAR contribute to India’s economic and security goals in Africa, Latin America & ASEAN?
5. Explain how India can leverage MAHASAGAR for promoting regional security and trade partnerships.

Final Takeaway

• MAHASAGAR expands India’s SAGAR policy, enhancing security, trade & development cooperation.
• Strengthens India’s engagement with the Global South, Indo-Pacific, Africa & Latin America.
• Counters China’s influence in the Indian Ocean & Indo-Pacific through India-led partnerships.
• Focuses on blue economy, maritime security, regional infrastructure & digital connectivity.
• Positions India as a key leader in representing developing nations on global platforms.

3. Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) – Polity

Why in News?

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently presented the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card to Mauritius’ Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, calling it a symbol of friendship between India and Mauritius.
• The OCI scheme, introduced in 2005 through an amendment to the Citizenship Act of 1955, grants certain privileges to foreign nationals of Indian origin while maintaining restrictions on full citizenship rights.

Eligibility for OCI Registration

Benefits of OCI

• Visa-Free Travel – Multiple-entry, lifelong visa to visit India for any purpose.
• Residency Rights – OCIs can reside & work in India indefinitely.
• Economic Rights – Parity with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in financial & educational facilities (except in agriculture & plantation land acquisition).
• No Registration Required – OCI holders do not need to register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), regardless of their stay duration.

Restrictions on OCI

• No Political Rights – OCI cardholders cannot vote or hold constitutional offices (e.g., President, Vice-President, Supreme Court Judges).
• No Public Service Jobs – OCI holders cannot work in government services unless permitted by the Central Government.
• No Agricultural Land Ownership – OCIs cannot acquire agricultural or plantation properties in India.
• Revocation of OCI – The OCI card can be canceled if the holder violates Indian laws or engages in anti-India activities.

OCI vs. Dual Citizenship

Why is OCI Important for India?

1. Strengthening India’s Global Diaspora Ties

• Helps India maintain cultural, economic & diplomatic ties with the Indian diaspora.
• Largest OCI holders include USA, UK, Canada, Australia & Mauritius.

2. Economic & Educational Benefits

• OCIs contribute to India’s economy via investments, startups & remittances.
• Access to Indian higher education & research institutions strengthens academic exchange.

3. Simplifying Immigration & Travel

• Enables smooth visa-free travel for overseas Indians.
• Reduces bureaucratic hurdles for long-term residency in India.

Relevance for Exam

1. Governance & Citizenship Laws

• OCI vs. Indian Citizenship vs. NRI status.
• Impact of Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) on OCI rules.

2. International Relations & Diaspora Policy

• India’s engagement with overseas Indians (Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, Diaspora Investment).
• Diplomatic impact of OCI policy (especially with Mauritius, USA, UK).

3. Economy & Globalization

• Role of OCI holders in India’s investment & education sectors.
• Restrictions on land ownership & economic activities.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. Which of the following individuals is NOT eligible for an OCI card?
   a) A person who was a citizen of India after 1950
   b) A great-grandchild of an Indian citizen
   c) A foreign spouse of an Indian citizen
   d) A person whose grandfather was a citizen of Pakistan ✅
2. Which of the following is NOT a benefit of OCI status?
   a) Multiple-entry, lifelong visa
   b) Right to work and reside in India
   c) Right to vote in Indian elections ✅
   d) No need for registration with FRRO
3. OCI cardholders in India cannot:
   a) Buy residential property
   b) Work in the private sector
   c) Own agricultural land ✅
   d) Invest in the stock market
4. Which law governs the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status?
   a) Immigration Act, 1982
   b) Citizenship Act, 1955 ✅
   c) Foreigners Act, 1946
   d) Registration of Persons Act, 1971
5. Which country has the highest number of OCI cardholders?
   a) United States ✅
   b) Mauritius
   c) United Kingdom
   d) Canada

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Discuss the significance of the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) scheme in strengthening India’s engagement with the global Indian diaspora.
2. Explain the eligibility criteria and benefits of OCI status. How does it differ from Indian citizenship and NRI status?
3. Analyze the impact of the OCI scheme on India’s economy and international relations.
4. Should India grant political rights to OCI holders? Critically examine the pros and cons.
5. Discuss the role of OCI in India’s soft power diplomacy. How does it compare to similar diaspora policies in other countries?

Final Takeaway

• OCI status provides lifelong residency & visa-free travel for foreign citizens of Indian origin.
• OCI holders enjoy economic & educational benefits but lack political & government job rights.
• India does NOT allow dual citizenship, and OCI is NOT a substitute for full Indian citizenship.
• Important for India’s economic, educational & diplomatic ties with the global Indian diaspora.
• Mauritius, the USA, UK, and Canada have the highest number of OCI cardholders.

4. Venture Capital in India – 2024 Overview – Economy

Why in News?

• India’s venture capital (VC) market witnessed a major rebound in 2024, with total VC funding rising to $13.7 billion—a 1.4x increase compared to 2023.
• Several regulatory reforms have contributed to this investment boom, making the startup ecosystem more attractive for investors.

Key Policy Reforms Driving VC Growth:

• Removal of Angel Tax – Encouraging startup funding.
• Reduction in Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG) Tax – Making VC investments more attractive.
• Simplification of National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) Processes – Faster dispute resolution.
• Easier Registration for Foreign VC Investors – Boosting global capital inflow.

What is Venture Capital (VC)?

Definition: Venture Capital (VC) is a form of private equity financing that provides funds to startups & small businesses with high growth potential.

Key Features of VC:

• High-Risk, High-Reward: VC investments target unproven businesses, but successful startups offer massive returns.
• Equity Stake: VCs acquire ownership stakes in startups in exchange for capital.
• Active Involvement: VC firms mentor startups, provide networking opportunities & business expertise.

Stages of Venture Capital Funding

• Examples of Indian Startups Funded by VCs in 2024:
  • Zepto (Grocery Delivery) – Raised $200M from VC firms.
  • Ola Electric (EV Market) – Secured $300M in Series D funding.
  • CureFoods (Cloud Kitchen) – Received $50M in growth-stage investment.

Regulatory Framework Governing Venture Capital in India

• Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) – Regulates VC funds under Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) Regulations, 2012.
• Key Regulatory Reforms in 2024:
  • Removal of Angel Tax – Eliminating tax on funding received by startups.
  • Faster NCLT Resolution – Reducing legal delays for startups & investors.
  • Eased Foreign VC Registrations – Encouraging FDI in Indian startups.
  • Tax Incentives – Lowering LTCG tax rates on startup exits.

Why is Venture Capital Important for India?

1. Driving Startup Innovation & Economic Growth

• VC funding supports high-potential startups, boosting job creation & economic expansion.
• India has over 110 unicorns (startups valued at $1B+), largely funded by VC investors.

2. Attracting Foreign Investments

• Foreign VC firms (Sequoia, SoftBank, Tiger Global) contribute significantly to Indian startups.
• India ranks among the top startup destinations globally due to VC-driven entrepreneurship.

3. Strengthening Technology & Digital Economy

• VC-backed companies dominate India’s digital economy (Fintech, AI, EVs, EdTech).
• Startups like Razorpay, BYJU’S, and Ola Electric thrive due to VC funding.

Challenges in India’s Venture Capital Ecosystem

• Regulatory Hurdles – Despite reforms, complex compliance & tax structures hinder investments.
• High-Risk Market – Over 90% of startups fail due to unsustainable business models.
• Exit Challenges – Slow IPO markets & acquisition roadblocks make VC exits difficult.
• Funding Concentration – Most funding goes to metro-based startups, neglecting Tier-2 & Tier-3 cities.
• Government Initiatives to Address Challenges:
  • Startup India Program – Provides tax benefits & funding support.
  • Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) – Allocated ₹10,000 crore to boost VC funding.
  • SIDBI Venture Capital – Supports SMEs & innovative businesses.

Relevance for Exam

1. Indian Economy & Business Reforms

• Impact of VC on India’s GDP, job creation & innovation.
• Government policies supporting startups & foreign investments.

2. Governance & Financial Regulations

• SEBI regulations on Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs).
• Tax policies & FDI in venture capital investments.

3. Science & Technology

• Role of VC in India’s digital economy & deep-tech startups.
• Emerging sectors (AI, Electric Vehicles, Green Energy) attracting VC funding.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. What is Venture Capital (VC)?
   a) A loan given to MSMEs
   b) Equity funding for high-growth startups ✅
   c) Government grants for technology companies
   d) Investment by foreign governments in India
2. Which of the following reforms boosted VC investments in India in 2024?
   a) Removal of Angel Tax ✅
   b) Increased tax on startup funding
   c) Restrictions on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in startups
   d) Reduction in research grants
3. Which government body regulates Venture Capital funds in India?
   a) Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
   b) Ministry of Finance
   c) Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) ✅
   d) NITI Aayog
4. Which of the following is NOT a feature of venture capital funding?
   a) High-risk, high-return investments
   b) Equity-based ownership
   c) Long-term mentorship & strategic guidance
   d) Government-backed financial assistance ✅
5. Which startup sector received the highest venture capital funding in India in 2024?
   a) Artificial Intelligence & DeepTech ✅
   b) Real Estate
   c) Oil & Gas
   d) Textiles

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Discuss the role of venture capital in India’s economic growth. How do recent policy reforms support startup investments?
2. Explain the stages of venture capital funding and its significance in India’s startup ecosystem.
3. Analyze the impact of foreign VC funding on India’s digital economy. Should India regulate foreign VC investments more strictly?
4. What are the challenges faced by venture capitalists in India? Suggest measures to strengthen the VC ecosystem.
5. Critically evaluate India’s regulatory framework for venture capital investments. How can SEBI and the government further improve VC policies?

Final Takeaway

• India’s VC market rebounded in 2024, reaching $13.7 billion in funding.
• Policy reforms like Angel Tax removal & LTCG tax reduction boosted investor confidence.
• SEBI regulates VC funds under Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) Regulations, 2012.
• VC is essential for India’s startup ecosystem, digital economy & technological growth.
• Challenges include regulatory hurdles, funding concentration & slow IPO exits.
• Government schemes like Startup India & Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) promote VC investments.

5. National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) – Environment

Why in News?

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) meeting for the first time since taking office in 2014.
• The last full meeting was held on September 5, 2012, under former PM Manmohan Singh.
• The NBWL is India’s apex body for wildlife conservation and plays a key role in approving projects affecting protected areas.

Key Highlights of NBWL Meeting:

• Reassessment of wildlife conservation policies.
• Balancing infrastructure projects with environmental protection.
• Review of pending proposals related to national parks & sanctuaries.

What is the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL)?

• Established in: 2003 through an amendment to The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
• Primary Role: Advisory body for wildlife policies, conservation, and new protected areas.
• Approval Authority: Grants permissions for projects impacting national parks, sanctuaries & eco-sensitive zones.

Composition of NBWL:

• Chairperson: Prime Minister of India (Ex-Officio).
• Vice-Chairperson: Union Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change.
• Total Members: 47, including wildlife experts, NGOs & government officials.

Key Function:

• Formulating policies for wildlife conservation.
• Recommending the creation of national parks, sanctuaries & eco-sensitive zones.
• Assessing the impact of developmental projects on wildlife habitats.

NBWL Standing Committee

Role of the Standing Committee:

• Reviews infrastructure projects affecting protected areas (e.g., highways, railways, mines).
• Evaluates projects within a 10 km radius of national parks & sanctuaries.
• Has the authority to approve, modify, or reject projects based on ecological impact.

Concerns Over NBWL’s Functioning:

• The Environment Ministry can override the Standing Committee’s recommendations.
• Controversial project approvals:
  • Ken-Betwa River Linking Project – Endangers Panna Tiger Reserve.
  • Oil Exploration in Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary – Threatens Northeast India’s unique primate species.
• Reduced NGO participation after the NBWL restructuring in 2014, leading to concerns over dilution of environmental safeguards.

Key Wildlife Conservation Policies Under NBWL

Key Issues with NBWL’s Functioning

• Approval Bias: NBWL has approved over 95% of projects since 2014, raising concerns over its independence.
• Dilution of Conservation Norms: Reduced representation of wildlife experts & NGOs weakens environmental oversight.
• Political Influence: Fast-tracking infrastructure projects at the cost of wildlife protection.
• Limited Transparency: Project clearances lack proper ecological impact assessments.

Example: The Dibang Valley Hydropower Project in Arunachal Pradesh was approved despite concerns over its impact on biodiversity & indigenous communities.

Why is NBWL Important for India?

1. Wildlife Protection & Conservation

• Ensures legal protection to endangered species & ecosystems.
• Regulates human activities in eco-sensitive zones.

2. Balancing Development with Ecology

• Approves infrastructure projects with environmental safeguards.
• Manages conflicts between industrial growth & biodiversity protection.

3. Strengthening India’s International Commitments

• Helps India meet global conservation goals (e.g., Convention on Biological Diversity, CITES).
• Contributes to climate change adaptation through ecosystem conservation.

Relevance for Exam

1. Environment & Ecology

• Protected areas, wildlife sanctuaries & biodiversity conservation.
• Impact of developmental projects on forests & wildlife.

2. Governance & Policy Making

• Role of NBWL in approving environmental projects.
• Legal framework for conservation under Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

3. Current Affairs & Issues in Wildlife Conservation

• Eco-sensitive zones (ESZs) & their role in conservation.
• Political interference & dilution of environmental laws.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. Which of the following statements about the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) is correct?
   a) It was established under the Environment Protection Act, 1986.
   b) The Prime Minister serves as the Chairperson of NBWL. ✅
   c) It has the power to declare a species as endangered.
   d) The Ministry of Defence plays a key role in its decision-making.
2. What is the primary function of the Standing Committee of NBWL?
   a) Approving or rejecting projects near national parks & wildlife sanctuaries. ✅
   b) Conducting field surveys of tiger reserves.
   c) Managing India’s forestry policies.
   d) Regulating pollution control measures.
3. Which of the following projects has been controversial due to NBWL’s clearance?
   a) Bullet Train Project
   b) Ken-Betwa River Linking Project ✅
   c) Sardar Sarovar Dam
   d) Hyderabad Metro
4. What is the key legislation governing wildlife conservation in India?
   a) The Environmental Protection Act, 1986
   b) The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 ✅
   c) The Forest Conservation Act, 1980
   d) The Biodiversity Act, 2002
5. Which of the following statements about the Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) is correct?
   a) ESZs are declared by the Ministry of Commerce.
   b) ESZs regulate activities around protected wildlife areas. ✅
   c) ESZs cover all urban industrial zones.
   d) ESZs do not restrict any construction activities.

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Discuss the role of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) in balancing conservation with development. What are the key challenges in its functioning?
2. How does the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 support India’s biodiversity conservation? Analyze the role of NBWL in implementing this law.
3. Critically evaluate the concerns raised over the NBWL’s project approval process. Suggest reforms to strengthen wildlife governance in India.
4. Explain the concept of Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs). How do they contribute to environmental protection in India?
5. Discuss the importance of wildlife conservation in the context of climate change and sustainable development.

Final Takeaway

• NBWL is India’s apex body for wildlife conservation & project approvals in protected areas.
• Chaired by the Prime Minister, it plays a key role in balancing development with ecology.
• The Standing Committee assesses projects within 10 km of national parks & sanctuaries.
• Concerns exist over dilution of conservation norms & fast-tracking project approvals.
• NBWL’s decisions impact key infrastructure projects like river linking, highways & mining.
• Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) play a critical role in regulating human activities near protected areas.