17th February 2025-Current Affairs

1. NAMASTE Scheme (National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem) – Governance

Why in News?

• The Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment recently distributed PPE kits and Ayushman health cards to sewer and septic tank workers under the NAMASTE scheme.
• The scheme aims to promote safe, mechanized sanitation and institutionalize the sanitation workforce.

About the NAMASTE Scheme

Full Form: National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE)

Objective:

• Achieve zero fatalities in sanitation work.
• Ensure that all sanitation tasks are performed by trained and skilled workers.

Duration:

• Implemented from FY 2023-24 to FY 2025-26 (3 years).

Implementing Agency:

• National Safai Karmacharis Finance Development Corporation (NSKFDC)
  • Works under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE).

Target Groups:

• Sewer and Septic Tank Sanitation Workers (SSWs)
• Waste Pickers (Urban areas of India)

Key Aims of the NAMASTE Scheme:

1. Eliminate Manual Scavenging:
   • No worker should come into direct contact with human fecal matter.
   • Promote mechanized cleaning methods to reduce health hazards.
2. Organize Sanitation Workers into Self-Help Groups (SHGs):
   • Empower workers through collective bargaining power.
   • Facilitate financial inclusion and capacity-building programs.
3. Provide Alternative Livelihood Opportunities:
   • Offer skill development programs to help sanitation workers transition to other professions.
   • Provide access to loans and financial support for starting sanitation enterprises.

Significance of the NAMASTE Scheme:

• Social Impact: Improves the dignity and working conditions of sanitation workers.
• Health & Safety: Reduces the risk of injuries, infections, and fatalities.
• Economic Empowerment: Promotes self-sufficiency through SHGs and alternative livelihoods.
• Technology Promotion: Encourages the use of modern, mechanized sanitation equipment.

Government Ministries Involved:

1. Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) – Lead ministry overseeing the scheme.
2. Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) – Supports urban sanitation initiatives and infrastructure development.

Exam Tip:

• Remember that NSKFDC (National Safai Karmacharis Finance Development Corporation) is the implementing agency under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
• Focus on keywords like zero fatalities, SHGs, mechanized cleaning, and alternative livelihoods for quick recall in exams.

Context and Impact:

The NAMASTE scheme is a major initiative in line with India’s efforts to eliminate manual scavenging, as mandated under the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013. It highlights the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and social justice.

2. National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) Expands Its Skilling Footprint – Governance

Why in News?

• The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) announced the establishment of:
  • 50 new Future Skills Centres focusing on advanced skill development.
  • 10 International Academies to promote global-standard training.
• This initiative aims to expand NSDC’s skilling footprint across India and strengthen vocational training programs.

About NSDC (National Skill Development Corporation):

Established: 2009
Type: Not-for-Profit Company
Formed Under: Section 25 of the Companies Act, 1956 (Now Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013)
Promoted By: Ministry of Finance, Government of India
Current Ministry: Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE)

Primary Goals of NSDC:

• Catalyze Skill Development: Support the creation of vocational training institutions.
• Promote Private Sector Participation: Develop models that encourage private investment in skill training.
• Bridge Skill Gaps: Address the mismatch between demand and supply of skilled workers in various industries.
• Provide Financial Support: Offer loans, equity, and grants to enterprises and organizations involved in skill training.

Equity Structure of NSDC:

• Total Equity Base: ₹10 Crore
• Government Holding: 49% (Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship – MSDE)
• Private Sector Holding: 51%
  This Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model is unique, ensuring private sector efficiency with government backing.

Latest Expansion Initiative (2025):

• 50 Future Skills Centres:
  • Focus on cutting-edge technologies such as AI, Data Science, Robotics, Blockchain, and IoT.
  • Equip youth with industry-relevant skills for future jobs.
• 10 International Academies:
  • Provide global-standard certifications.
  • Collaborate with international institutions for skill exchange programs.

Impact of NSDC’s Expansion:

• Economic Growth: Creates a skilled workforce essential for India’s growing industries.
• Employment Generation: Increases job readiness for youth and helps address unemployment.
• Global Opportunities: Facilitates opportunities for Indian workers in international markets.
• Industry Collaboration: Promotes industry-academia partnerships for on-the-job training (OJT).

Government Initiatives Linked with NSDC:

• Skill India Mission (2015): NSDC is a key implementing body.
• Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY): NSDC oversees program implementation.
• National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS): Collaborates with industries for apprenticeship training.

Exam Tip:

• Remember that NSDC was established in 2009 under the Ministry of Finance but currently functions under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).
• Focus on Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model and the 51% private equity structure, which is a key point for MCQs.

Context and Relevance:

The expansion of NSDC aligns with India’s goal to become a global skill hub and meet the demands of a rapidly evolving job market. It highlights the importance of public-private partnerships (PPP) in driving skill development and economic growth.

3. Similipal Tiger Reserve – Environment

Why in News?

• Authorities arrested six poachers for hunting a mouse deer within the South Wildlife Division of Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR).
• This incident highlights the persistent threats of poaching and the importance of wildlife protection in the region.

About Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR):

Location: Mayurbhanj District, Odisha
Area: 2,750 sq. km

History and Recognition:

• Wildlife Sanctuary: Declared in 1979.
• Proposed National Park: In 1980.
• Project Tiger Reserve: Under Project Tiger (1973).
• UNESCO Biosphere Reserve: Recognized in May 2009.

Geography of Similipal:

• Landscape: Surrounded by high plateaus and hills.
• Highest Peaks:
  • Khairiburu (1,515 meters) – The highest point in Odisha.
  • Meghashini (1,158 meters).
• Waterfalls: Notable falls include:
  • Joranda Falls – 150 meters high.
  • Barehipani Falls – 399 meters high (2nd highest in India).

Flora (Vegetation):

• Forest Types:
  • Northern Tropical Moist Deciduous Forests (dominant).
  • Semi-evergreen patches.
• Plant Diversity:
  • Over 1,078 species of plants documented.
  • Includes 94 species of orchids, making it a biodiversity hotspot.

Fauna (Wildlife):

• Tigers: A key tiger habitat under Project Tiger.
• Elephants: Part of the Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve.
• Bird Species: 304 species, including rare and migratory birds.
• Reptiles and Amphibians: Rich in herpetofauna.
• Butterflies: Diverse species contribute to ecological richness.
• Other Mammals: Includes leopards, deer (including mouse deer), gaurs, and wild boars.

Conservation Challenges:

• Poaching: Recent incident involving mouse deer poaching.
• Habitat Destruction: Ongoing threats from forest fires, deforestation, and human-wildlife conflict.
• Illegal Wildlife Trade: Targeting species such as pangolins and deer.

Conservation Efforts:

• Eco-Development Programs: Promote sustainable livelihoods for local communities.
• Anti-Poaching Camps: Set up for patrolling and monitoring.
• Similipal Biosphere Reserve Initiative: Protects the region’s unique biodiversity.
• Involvement of Tribes: Engaging local tribes like the Santhal and Ho in conservation efforts.

Government Initiatives Linked to STR:

• Project Tiger (1973): Core tiger conservation program under which STR operates.
• National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA): Oversees STR management.
• UNESCO Man and Biosphere (MAB) Programme: Recognizes STR as a biosphere reserve.
• Compensatory Afforestation Programme: Mitigates deforestation impacts.

Significance of Similipal Tiger Reserve:

• Biodiversity Hotspot: Rich in both flora and fauna.
• Tiger Conservation: Plays a vital role in maintaining India’s tiger population.
• Watershed Protection: Source of several rivers and streams, supporting regional ecology.
• Cultural Importance: Region inhabited by Santhal tribes, with deep ecological knowledge.

Exam Tip:

• Remember the timeline:
  1979 – Wildlife Sanctuary
  1980 – Proposed National Park
  2009 – UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
• Know key features: Barehipani (399 m) and Joranda Falls (150 m).
• Link Project Tiger (1973) and NTCA for conservation questions.

4. Conservation Efforts for Hangul Deer – Environment

Why in News?

• Recent research from CSIR–Centre for Cellular & Molecular Biology (CCMB) highlights the importance of minimizing human disturbances during the mating (September–October) and birthing seasons to support population recovery of the Hangul Deer (Kashmir stag).
• The study emphasizes that protecting these key life stages is crucial for Hangul conservation in the Himalayan region.

About Hangul Deer (Kashmir Stag):

• Scientific Name: Cervus hanglu hanglu
• Common Name: Hangul Deer or Kashmir Stag
• Subspecies: Central Asian Red Deer (only surviving population in India)
• Habitat: Found in dense riverine forests, high valleys, and mountains of Jammu & Kashmir and northern Himachal Pradesh.

Major Habitats:

1. Dachigam National Park (Jammu & Kashmir): Primary habitat and stronghold of the Hangul population.
2. Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary: Smaller population group.
3. Shikargah Conservation Reserve and Lachipora Wildlife Sanctuary: Other regions with scattered populations.

Physical Characteristics:

• Size: Large-bodied deer species.
• Antlers: Males have impressive, branched antlers, typically with 11 to 16 points.
• Females: Lack antlers.

Social Structure:

• Matriarchal Society: Females lead the group and play a key role in herd dynamics.
• Mating System: Polygynous – dominant males mate with multiple females.
• Breeding Season: Occurs between September and October, marked by:
  • Roaring contests (bugling calls) by males.
  • Fights to establish dominance.
  • Antler displays to attract females.

Conservation Status:

• IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered (CR).
• CITES: Appendix I (highest level of protection from trade).
• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (India): Schedule I (highest legal protection).

Population Concerns:

• Current population is estimated to be around 200–300 individuals, with a sharp decline from 5,000 in the 1940s.
• Imbalanced Sex Ratio: Approximately 1 male to 25 females, which affects breeding success.

Threats to Hangul Deer:

1. Habitat Loss: Due to urbanization, agriculture, and military activities.
2. Human Disturbance: Increased tourism, construction, and livestock grazing disrupts breeding.
3. Predation: By leopards, bears, and feral dogs.
4. Poaching: Despite legal protection.
5. Livestock Competition: Overgrazing reduces food availability.

Conservation Efforts for Hangul Deer:

1. Habitat Protection and Management:

• Expansion of Dachigam National Park’s buffer zones.
• Restricted human activity during mating and birthing seasons.
• Afforestation programs to restore degraded habitats.

2. Captive Breeding Programs:

• Initiated under the Jammu & Kashmir Wildlife Protection Department.
• Aimed at raising Hangul fawns in protected environments and later releasing them into the wild.

3. Population Monitoring:

• Use of camera traps and DNA sampling to track population trends.
• Ongoing research by CSIR-CCMB to study genetic diversity and improve breeding outcomes.

4. Community Involvement and Awareness:

• Eco-tourism initiatives that support conservation without disturbing wildlife.
• Promoting livelihood alternatives for local herders to reduce grazing pressure.

5. Legal Protection and Anti-Poaching Measures:

• Increased patrolling and deployment of forest guards.
• Strict enforcement of laws under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

Government and NGO Initiatives:

• Project Hangul: A dedicated initiative for Hangul conservation.
• Wildlife Institute of India (WII): Research and ecological studies.
• CSIR–CCMB: Genetic studies for population recovery.
• National Board for Wildlife (NBWL): Policy support for conservation.

Exam Tips:

• Habitat: Dachigam National Park – Primary habitat (Important for map-based questions).
• IUCN Status: Critically Endangered (CR) – Key point for MCQs.
• Social Structure: Matriarchal and Polygynous breeding behavior.
• Unique Feature: Males with 11–16-point antlers.
• Breeding Season: September–October.

Context and Relevance:

• Keystone Species: The Hangul is crucial for maintaining Himalayan forest ecosystems.
• Cultural Significance: The Hangul is the State Animal of Jammu and Kashmir.
• Conservation Priority: Critical for India’s biodiversity commitments under CITES and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).

5. Anamudi Shola National Park – Environment

Why in News?

• The National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) approved the use of 0.0442 hectares of forest land from Anamudi Shola National Park for constructing a weir across the Silandhi River, proposed by the Kerala Water Authority.
• The decision has sparked environmental concerns due to the ecological sensitivity of the region and potential disputes with neighboring states.

About Anamudi Shola National Park:

Location: Idukki District, Kerala
Region: Western Ghats (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Area: Approximately 7.5 sq. km

Geographical Significance:

• Part of Western Ghats: Known for its rich biodiversity, the Western Ghats are one of the eight “hottest hotspots” of biological diversity globally.
• Altitude: The region has an undulating terrain with shola forests nestled between grasslands.
• Surrounding Protected Areas:
  • Eravikulam National Park (north)
  • Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary (east)
  • Pampadum Shola National Park (nearby)

Vegetation and Ecosystem:

• Forest Types:
  • Montane Wet Temperate Forests (Shola forests) – Dense, evergreen forests in high-altitude regions.
  • Southern Subtropical Hill Forests – Rich in mosses, lichens, and climbers.
  • Moist Deciduous Forests – Common in lower slopes and valleys.
• Unique Shola Grassland Ecosystem: Characterized by patches of forests (sholas) within rolling grasslands, typical of the Western Ghats.

Flora (Plant Diversity):

• 174 species of herbs and shrubs.
• 62 species of trees, including several endemic species.
• 40 species of climbers, including rare lichens, mosses, and ferns.

Fauna (Wildlife):

• Mammals:
  • Leopards (Top predator)
  • Indian Bison (Gaur)
  • Asian Elephants
  • Sloth Bears
  • Nilgiri Tahr (endemic to the Western Ghats)
• Birds: Rich in avifauna, including several endemic species like the Nilgiri Wood Pigeon and Black-and-Orange Flycatcher.
• Reptiles & Amphibians: The region is known for endemic species like Malabar Pit Viper and Ghat Horned Frog.

Conservation Status and Importance:

• Western Ghats: Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unique biodiversity.
• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: The park is protected under Schedule I regulations.
• Biodiversity Hotspot: Home to many endangered and endemic species.

Recent Development and Environmental Concerns:

• Project: Construction of a weir (small dam-like structure) on the Silandhi River by the Kerala Water Authority.
• NBWL Approval: 0.0442 hectares of forest land diverted from the park.
• Concerns:
  • Habitat Fragmentation: Disturbs the shola forest ecosystem.
  • Impact on Flora and Fauna: Affects migratory routes of elephants and gaurs.
  • Soil Erosion and Water Table Disturbance: Threatens the Silandhi River ecosystem.
• Inter-State Issues: Potential disputes with neighboring Tamil Nadu regarding water-sharing and environmental impact.

Conservation Efforts and Government Initiatives:

• Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ): Development is regulated to minimize environmental impact.
• Afforestation Programs: Focus on restoring degraded shola forests.
• Wildlife Corridors: Maintain connectivity with Eravikulam and Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Community Involvement: Promote eco-tourism and awareness programs with local communities.

Exam Tips and Key Points to Remember:

• Location: Idukki District, Kerala, part of the Western Ghats.
• Neighboring Protected Areas: Eravikulam NP, Chinnar WLS, Pampadum Shola NP.
• Unique Feature: Shola forests + Grasslands ecosystem.
• Major Wildlife: Leopard, Indian Bison, Elephant, Nilgiri Tahr.
• Recent Issue: NBWL approval for a weir on the Silandhi River.
• Western Ghats: Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.