1. Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) Portal – Science and Technology
Why in News?
- Telangana has emerged as the leading state in India in the recovery of stolen and lost mobile phones through the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) portal.
- This underscores the CEIR system’s effectiveness in curbing mobile theft and aiding device recovery.
What is CEIR?
- Developed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) under the Ministry of Communications.
- It is a centralized database for tracking lost, stolen, or unverified mobile devices using IMEI numbers.
- Pan-India platform – integrates efforts across all telecom service providers and law enforcement agencies.
Key Features and Functionalities
IMEI Number (International Mobile Equipment Identity)
- A unique 15-digit number used to identify every mobile handset.
- Core element for tracking and identifying phones.
Tracking Mechanism
- Users can report lost or stolen phones by entering the IMEI number on the CEIR portal.
- FIR (First Information Report) may be uploaded to validate the complaint.
- Works across all telecom networks – remains effective even if the SIM card is changed.
Database Categories
- White List: Devices authorized to access mobile networks.
- Grey List: Devices under observation (suspicious or reported but not confirmed lost).
- Black List: Devices confirmed lost/stolen – blocked from accessing mobile networks.
Objectives of the CEIR Portal
- Deter mobile theft by rendering stolen phones useless.
- Protect consumer interests by enabling device tracking and recovery.
- Centralize mobile identification using IMEI numbers.
- Track devices even with SIM changes or data resets.
- Build a national infrastructure for mobile device security.
- Connect with GSMA’s international database for mobile device authentication.
- Detect and eliminate cloned, reprogrammed, or duplicate devices.
Significance and Impact
- Enhances mobile security and consumer protection.
- Encourages responsible use of mobile devices.
- Assists law enforcement in digital crime prevention.
- Improves India’s capabilities in cybersecurity and telecom regulation.
Summary
The CEIR Portal, developed by India’s Department of Telecommunications, is a centralized system for tracking lost or stolen mobile phones using IMEI numbers. It categorizes devices into white, grey, and black lists, effectively blocking stolen phones from network use even if SIM cards are changed. With Telangana leading in phone recoveries through CEIR, the system demonstrates India’s growing infrastructure for digital security and consumer protection. It serves multiple purposes, including discouraging theft, enabling tracking, and ensuring network integrity.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
- Which of the following statements about the CEIR Portal is/are correct?
- It is developed by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
- It tracks mobile phones using IMEI numbers.
- It categorizes phones into white, grey, and black lists.
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) All of the above
Answer: b) 2 and 3 only
- The IMEI number is associated with which of the following?
a) SIM identification
b) Device hardware identification
c) Software license management
d) Internet protocol tracking
Answer: b) Device hardware identification
Mains
- Explain the working and significance of the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) in India’s fight against mobile theft. (250 words)
- Discuss how the CEIR portal contributes to digital governance and cyber security in India. What improvements can be made to enhance its effectiveness? (250 words)
2. Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI) – Governance
Why in News?
- The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has launched the Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI) as part of its Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP).
- This move aims to curb cyber frauds and financial crimes, especially those linked with mobile numbers.
What is the Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI)?
- The FRI is a risk-assessment tool that categorizes mobile numbers based on their potential involvement in financial fraud.
- It uses data from:
- National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP)
- DoT’s Chakshu Platform
- Banks and Financial Institutions
- Mobile numbers are flagged as:
- Medium Risk
- High Risk
- Very High Risk
Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP)
Purpose and Functionality
- DIP is an integrated, secure platform that enables real-time intelligence sharing among key stakeholders.
- Access is limited to authorized entities to prevent misuse and ensure data integrity.
Key Stakeholders Involved
- Telecom Service Providers (TSPs)
- Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs)
- Banks and Financial Institutions
- UPI service providers
- Social Media Platforms
- Identity Document Issuers
Key Features of the System
Mobile Number Revocation List (MNRL)
- Maintained by the Digital Intelligence Unit (DIU) under DoT.
- Includes numbers revoked for:
- Cybercrime involvement
- Failed KYC verification
- Shared with stakeholders for proactive measures.
Integration with Service Providers
- Example: PhonePe uses FRI to:
- Block transactions from “Very High Risk” numbers.
- Warn users for “Medium Risk” numbers.
- Demonstrates real-world applicability in fraud prevention.
Objectives of FRI and DIP
- Prevent financial fraud linked with mobile communications.
- Enable early detection of suspicious mobile numbers.
- Facilitate cross-sectoral collaboration for fraud prevention.
- Provide real-time intelligence to strengthen digital trust in financial systems.
- Support UPI service providers and NBFCs in secure customer verification.
Significance and Impact
- Strengthens India’s digital governance and financial security infrastructure.
- Promotes public-private collaboration in fighting cybercrime.
- Helps in achieving cyber-safe financial ecosystems, crucial for expanding digital payments.
- Encourages responsible data usage and prevents misuse of mobile identities.
Summary
The Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI), developed by the Department of Telecommunications, is a digital risk assessment tool designed to flag mobile numbers that are potentially linked to financial fraud. Integrated into the Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP), it leverages inputs from cybercrime portals, banking systems, and other digital platforms. By enabling real-time sharing of intelligence among banks, law enforcement, telecom providers, and fintech firms, the system enhances India’s digital trust and financial cybersecurity. Its effectiveness is already visible in platforms like PhonePe, where it is used to proactively block high-risk transactions.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
- Which of the following statements about the Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI) are correct?
- It is a tool developed by the Ministry of Finance.
- It categorizes mobile numbers based on risk levels for financial fraud.
- It is part of the Digital Intelligence Platform under the Department of Telecommunications.
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) All of the above
Answer: b) 2 and 3 only
- The Mobile Number Revocation List (MNRL) is issued for which of the following reasons?
a) Tax evasion
b) SIM card cloning
c) Failed verification or cybercrime involvement
d) Breach of telecom service contract
Answer: c) Failed verification or cybercrime involvement
Mains
- Discuss the role of the Digital Intelligence Platform and the Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI) in strengthening India’s financial cybersecurity framework. (250 words)
- With the rising incidence of cyber financial crimes, evaluate the significance of mobile number-based intelligence tools like FRI in India’s digital governance strategy. What are the potential challenges in its implementation? (250 words)
3. Justice Yashwant Varma Case & Veeraswami Judgment Legacy – Polity
Why in News?
- A controversial in-house inquiry into Justice Yashwant Varma (Delhi High Court) has reignited debate over judicial accountability and criminal prosecution of judges.
- Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar questioned the constitutionality of this internal inquiry and called for FIR and reevaluation of the 1991 Veeraswami judgment.
The Justice Yashwant Varma Case: What Happened?
- In March 2024, unaccounted cash was discovered at Justice Varma’s residence.
- The Supreme Court conducted an in-house inquiry, found him culpable, but:
- Did not recommend an FIR
- Did not initiate criminal proceedings
- Vice President Dhankhar criticized this approach, arguing:
- The in-house mechanism lacks legal foundation
- There is constitutional space for FIR and investigation under criminal law.
Judicial Accountability vs Judicial Independence
Constitutional Provisions
- Article 124(4) (Supreme Court Judges) and Article 217 (High Court Judges):
- Provide for removal only through impeachment by Parliament.
- Require proof of misbehavior or incapacity.
In-House Inquiry Mechanism
- Established by the Supreme Court post the 1997 Restatement of Values of Judicial Life.
- Meant to uphold internal accountability without undermining independence.
- Limitations:
- No legal status in criminal law.
- Cannot recommend criminal prosecution or removal.
- Operates in secrecy; lacks transparency and enforceability.
The Veeraswami Judgment (1991)
Key Ruling
- Supreme Court held that judges can be prosecuted under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
- However, prosecution requires prior sanction from the Chief Justice of India (CJI).
Objectives of the Judgment
- Balance judicial accountability with judicial independence.
- Prevent executive overreach or misuse of power to harass judges.
Criticism & Consequences
- In practice, criminal proceedings against judges are extremely rare.
- The requirement of CJI’s sanction has often acted as a barrier.
- Creates a grey zone between constitutional immunity and public accountability.
Notable Cases Post-Veeraswami
- Justice S N Shukla (2019): One of the rare instances where an FIR was registered for judicial misconduct.
- Reflects the exceptional nature of criminal prosecution against judges.
Significance & Ongoing Debate
Issues Highlighted
- Opaque nature of in-house mechanisms
- Lack of FIRs despite findings of wrongdoing
- Concerns over erosion of public trust in the judiciary
- Overprotection vs Under-accountability dilemma
Calls for Reform
- Establishing independent oversight bodies outside the judiciary
- Creating a transparent statutory framework for criminal investigation of judges
- Balancing independence with transparency and accountability
Summary
The case involving Justice Yashwant Varma has rekindled the debate on judicial accountability in India. Despite an in-house inquiry finding him culpable for unaccounted wealth, no FIR or criminal action was taken—highlighting the limitations of current mechanisms. The Veeraswami judgment (1991) allows prosecution of judges under anti-corruption laws but only with the CJI’s sanction, creating a high threshold rarely met. The controversy has led to renewed demands for reforms that ensure judicial integrity without compromising independence, particularly through transparent and enforceable frameworks for handling misconduct.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
- Which of the following statements about the Veeraswami Judgment are correct?
- It prohibits criminal prosecution of sitting judges.
- It allows prosecution of judges under the Prevention of Corruption Act with the CJI’s sanction.
- It was delivered by the Supreme Court in 2005.
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) All of the above
Answer: b) 2 only
- Under which Article can a Supreme Court judge be removed from office?
a) Article 124(4)
b) Article 217(1)(b)
c) Article 368
d) Article 311
Answer: a) Article 124(4)
Mains
- “Judicial accountability is essential for maintaining public trust in the judiciary, but it must not undermine judicial independence.” Discuss this statement in light of the Justice Yashwant Varma case. (250 words)
- Critically evaluate the relevance and limitations of the Veeraswami judgment (1991) in the context of the present-day challenges to judicial accountability in India. (250 words)
4. Water, Warfare, and the Future of Bilateral Diplomacy – The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) – InternationaI Relations
Why in News?
- India has suspended engagement under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) with Pakistan in response to the Pahalgam terrorist attack.
- This has sparked global discussions on the weaponization of water resources and the legal, humanitarian, and diplomatic risks involved in unilateral action.
What is the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT)?
Background and Origin
- Signed in 1960, brokered by the World Bank to manage post-Partition water distribution.
- Divides control of six rivers between India and Pakistan:
- Eastern Rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej) – Allocated to India
- Western Rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab) – Allocated to Pakistan, with India allowed limited use (e.g., hydropower, irrigation) under strict conditions.
Institutional Mechanism
- Permanent Indus Commission (PIC): A bilateral body to resolve disputes and ensure treaty compliance.
- Despite multiple wars and border tensions, the IWT has remained in force, earning praise for its technical structure and durability.
Current Issues and Tensions
India’s Hydropower Projects
- Projects like Kishanganga and Ratle in Jammu & Kashmir have drawn Pakistan’s objections.
- Pakistan alleges treaty violations regarding water flow and dam design.
- India maintains projects are within treaty limits.
- Disputes have led to arbitration and diverging legal preferences:
- India prefers neutral expert mechanism.
- Pakistan seeks court of arbitration.
Impact of Political and Military Tensions
- The Pahalgam terrorist attack prompted India to pause cooperation under the treaty.
- Raises fears about using water as a weapon, particularly when downstream populations depend heavily on river flows.
Legal and Diplomatic Dimensions
Withdrawal Clause – Legality
- The IWT does not contain a withdrawal clause.
- Unilateral exit could:
- Trigger legal challenges under international law
- Compel World Bank intervention
- Erode India’s credibility as a law-abiding nation
Diplomatic Consequences
- Withdrawal or coercion could:
- Harm India’s global reputation as a responsible regional power
- Worry other neighbours with whom India shares transboundary rivers (e.g., Bangladesh, Nepal)
- Undermine India’s moral authority in international forums
Humanitarian and Environmental Concerns
- Pakistan’s agriculture and drinking water needs depend on western rivers.
- Coercive control of water could:
- Be seen as a humanitarian breach
- Affect millions of livelihoods downstream
- India risks being perceived as weaponizing natural resources.
The Case for Cooperative Diplomacy
Strategic but Ethical Approach
- India can assert rights within the treaty without abandoning it.
- Emphasizing technical solutions, dispute resolution, and joint monitoring can:
- Promote peace
- Showcase India’s mature diplomacy
- Prevent escalation of regional instability
Moral and Legal Leadership
- Upholding treaties strengthens India’s position as a law-based international actor.
- Demonstrates that strategic interests can be pursued within legal and ethical frameworks.
Summary
The Indus Waters Treaty (1960) has long been a pillar of India-Pakistan water cooperation despite turbulent political ties. The recent suspension of cooperation following the Pahalgam attack revives debates on using shared natural resources as tools of coercion. While strategic tensions may justify strong responses, unilateral withdrawal poses legal, diplomatic, and humanitarian risks. With no exit clause in the IWT, such a move could damage India’s international credibility. The way forward lies in reforming existing mechanisms and showing leadership through law, not force.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
- Which of the following rivers are allocated to India under the Indus Waters Treaty?
a) Indus, Chenab, Jhelum
b) Beas, Ravi, Sutlej
c) Indus, Beas, Sutlej
d) Jhelum, Beas, Ravi
Answer: b) Beas, Ravi, Sutlej - Which international institution brokered the Indus Waters Treaty?
a) United Nations
b) International Court of Justice
c) World Bank
d) International Water Management Institute
Answer: c) World Bank
Mains
- The Indus Waters Treaty has been hailed as a model for transboundary water management. In light of recent developments, critically examine its relevance and limitations. (250 words)
- Discuss the legal and diplomatic consequences for India in case of a unilateral withdrawal from the Indus Waters Treaty. How should India balance national security with international commitments? (250 words)
5. Polavaram Project – A Strategic Water Governance Initiative
Why in News?
- The Prime Minister is set to chair a high-level meeting with the Chief Ministers of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh to review and resolve issues around the Polavaram project.
- Highlights inter-state cooperation challenges and federal involvement in water governance.
Key Facts About the Polavaram Project
Basic Overview
- Location: On the Godavari River, near Polavaram village, West Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh.
- Type: Multi-purpose national irrigation project
- Conceived: 1980; later accorded National Project Status by the central government.
- Aims to improve irrigation, hydropower generation, flood control, and drinking water supply.
Technical Specifications
Dam Design
- Length: 1.2 km
- Pier Height: 54 meters
- Radial Gates: 48 (each 16 m × 20 m)
Flood Management
- Designed to withstand once-in-1000-year flood events.
- Spillway has a world-leading discharge capacity of 50 lakh cusecs—higher than the 3 Gorges Dam (China).
World Record
- Set a record by pouring 32,315.5 cubic metres of concrete in a single day into the spillway channel.
Functional Objectives and Benefits
Irrigation
- Develops irrigation potential of 4,36,825 hectares across Andhra Pradesh.
Hydropower Generation
- Capable of generating 960 MW of clean electricity.
Drinking Water Supply
- To benefit 28.50 lakh people across 611 villages.
Inter-basin Water Transfer
- Transfers 80 TMC of surplus Godavari water to the Krishna river basin.
- Aims to optimize water use and reduce flood risks in vulnerable areas.
Governance and Inter-State Challenges
States Involved
- Andhra Pradesh (project host)
- Telangana, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh (upstream/downstream impact)
Concerns Raised by Neighboring States
- Submergence of villages and forests.
- Displacement of tribal populations.
- Environmental and livelihood impacts.
- Demand for resettlement and rehabilitation transparency.
Centre-State Dynamics
- The project’s National Status makes the central government a key stakeholder.
- Inter-state coordination and federal dispute resolution mechanisms are crucial for project success.
Environmental and Social Implications
- Large-scale submergence and displacement in tribal regions.
- Necessitates robust rehabilitation and resettlement (R&R) plans.
- Requires compliance with environmental clearance norms and wildlife protection guidelines.
Summary
The Polavaram Project is a landmark initiative in India’s water governance framework. Built on the Godavari River, it aims to revolutionize irrigation, generate hydropower, and supply drinking water to millions, while also facilitating inter-basin water transfer to the Krishna basin. Despite its benefits, the project faces legal, environmental, and inter-state challenges, especially from Telangana, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh. Its national project status underscores the role of the central government in mediating disputes and ensuring equitable development.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
- Which of the following statements about the Polavaram Project is/are correct?
- It is located on the Krishna River.
- It has the highest spillway discharge capacity in the world.
- It was declared a national project by the central government.
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) All of the above
Answer: b) 2 and 3 only
- The Polavaram Project primarily benefits which of the following Indian states?
a) Odisha
b) Telangana
c) Andhra Pradesh
d) Chhattisgarh
Answer: c) Andhra Pradesh
Mains
- The Polavaram Project reflects the challenges of cooperative federalism in India’s water governance. Discuss. (250 words)
- Evaluate the significance of the Polavaram Project in terms of irrigation, flood management, and inter-basin water transfer. Also highlight the key environmental and social challenges it faces. (250 words)
6. International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) – Environment
Why in News?
- May 22, 2025, marks the annual observance of the International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB).
- The event seeks to raise global awareness about the urgent need to protect and restore biodiversity, and highlights its critical role in achieving sustainable development.
What is IDB?
Annual Observance
- Celebrated every year on May 22.
- Designated by the United Nations to mark the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) on May 22, 1992.
Original Date
- Originally observed on December 29, later changed to May 22 for better global participation and planning, avoiding the year-end holiday season.
Theme for 2025
- Focuses on the integration of biodiversity protection with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) outlined in the 2030 Agenda.
- Advocates synergizing biodiversity action with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
Significance of Biodiversity and IDB
Importance of Biodiversity
- Biodiversity underpins ecosystem services essential for:
- Food security
- Clean water
- Climate regulation
- Cultural and recreational benefits
- A key asset for sustainable development, poverty reduction, and climate resilience.
Biodiversity and the SDGs
- Direct linkages with multiple SDGs:
- SDG 13 (Climate Action)
- SDG 14 (Life Below Water)
- SDG 15 (Life on Land)
- SDG 2 (Zero Hunger)
- SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being)
Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
Adoption
- Adopted at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992.
- A legally binding treaty with three main objectives:
- Conservation of biodiversity
- Sustainable use of biodiversity components
- Fair and equitable sharing of benefits from genetic resources
The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework
Adopted in 2022 at COP15 of the CBD.
- Aims to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030.
- Includes the “30 by 30” goal – protect 30% of land and oceans by 2030.
- Serves as a strategic vision for living in harmony with nature by 2050.
Goals of IDB 2025 Observance
- Promote alignment between biodiversity protection and the SDGs.
- Reinforce global commitment to the Kunming-Montreal Framework.
- Encourage policy coherence, financial investment, and inclusive participation in biodiversity governance.
Summary
The International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB), observed on May 22, marks the anniversary of the Convention on Biological Diversity (1992). The 2025 theme emphasizes the integration of biodiversity conservation with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in light of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. This day serves as a global reminder of the foundational role biodiversity plays in sustaining life, livelihoods, and ecosystems, and calls for concerted global efforts toward its protection.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
- The International Day for Biological Diversity commemorates which international treaty?
a) Ramsar Convention
b) Convention on Biological Diversity
c) Kyoto Protocol
d) Paris Agreement
Answer: b) Convention on Biological Diversity - Which of the following SDGs is most directly linked to biodiversity conservation?
a) SDG 1
b) SDG 8
c) SDG 14
d) SDG 17
Answer: c) SDG 14 (Life Below Water) - The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework was adopted during which COP?
a) COP 10
b) COP 15
c) COP 21
d) COP 13
Answer: b) COP 15
Mains
- Biodiversity loss threatens the foundation of sustainable development. Examine this statement in the context of the 2025 International Day for Biological Diversity. (250 words)
- Discuss the significance of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework in achieving the targets of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. (250 words)
7. SWOT Satellite: Measuring River Flood Waves – Science and Technology
Why in News?
- In a major scientific development, NASA and Virginia Tech researchers have used data from the SWOT satellite to successfully measure the speed and height of flood waves in U.S. rivers.
- This advancement opens new possibilities for large-scale flood monitoring and environmental research.
What is the SWOT Satellite?
Full Form
- SWOT stands for Surface Water and Ocean Topography.
Launch and Collaboration
- Launched in 2022.
- Joint mission between:
- NASA (USA)
- CNES (French Space Agency)
- In collaboration with Canadian Space Agency (CSA) and UK Space Agency (UKSA).
Key Instrument
- Ka-band Radar Interferometer (KaRIn):
- Uses advanced radar techniques to measure the height, elevation, width, and topography of surface water bodies with unprecedented accuracy.
What Are River Flood Waves?
Definition
- Also called flood waves or flow waves.
- Temporary surges in water level and flow in rivers, triggered by:
- Heavy rainfall
- Snowmelt
- Ice jams
- Dam breaches or failures
Ecological and Social Significance
- Ecological Role:
- Transport nutrients, sediments, and aquatic organisms.
- Disaster Risk:
- Pose flood hazards to downstream areas and human settlements.
Why is SWOT a Game Changer?
Previous Limitations
- Historically, monitoring flood waves relied on ground-based stream gauges, which:
- Are sparse or absent in remote or developing regions.
- Provide only local, real-time data, lacking global context.
New Capabilities with SWOT
- Monitors over 55% of the world’s large-scale floods during their full life cycle.
- Captures dynamic changes in river systems over time.
- Enables global monitoring of river discharge, flood propagation, and water storage.
Applications and Implications
Disaster Management
- Early detection of flood wave patterns can:
- Improve forecasting models
- Help in flood preparedness and evacuation planning
- Reduce loss of life and property
Environmental Monitoring
- Tracks wetland dynamics, seasonal water bodies, and climate change impacts.
- Supports ecosystem conservation and habitat mapping.
Global Cooperation
- Helps developing countries lacking advanced monitoring infrastructure.
- Enhances international collaboration on transboundary water resource management.
Summary
The SWOT Satellite, launched by NASA and CNES, uses cutting-edge radar technology to measure the topography of surface water bodies, including river flood waves. By accurately capturing the speed, height, and flow of water surges, SWOT overcomes the limitations of ground-based stream gauges and enables real-time, large-scale flood monitoring. This innovation holds immense potential for improving flood forecasting, disaster preparedness, and environmental sustainability, making it a vital tool in global water governance.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
- What is the primary function of the KaRIn instrument on the SWOT satellite?
a) Detect greenhouse gases
b) Measure magnetic fields
c) Capture high-resolution images of forests
d) Measure the elevation and extent of surface water bodies
Answer: d) Measure the elevation and extent of surface water bodies - Which of the following best describes a river flood wave?
a) A recurring tidal phenomenon
b) A temporary surge in river flow caused by rainfall or dam breaches
c) A wave generated by underwater earthquakes
d) A seasonal change in water temperature in rivers
Answer: b) A temporary surge in river flow caused by rainfall or dam breaches
Mains
- Explain how advancements in satellite technology, such as the SWOT mission, contribute to flood management and disaster preparedness in India. (250 words)
- Discuss the role of space-based hydrological observation systems in addressing the challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable water management. (250 words)