1. Earth Day and the Urgent Call for Sustainable Stewardship – Environment
Why in News?
- Earth Day is observed annually on April 22, emphasizing humanity’s responsibility to safeguard the Earth’s resources for future generations.
- It serves as a critical reminder amid increasing ecological degradation due to overexploitation of natural resources.
- India is transitioning from mere environmental rhetoric to actionable climate commitments through major sustainability initiatives.
Significance of Earth Day
- First celebrated in 1970 after a large environmental movement in the USA.
- Earth Day helped spur the creation of landmark environmental laws like the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Endangered Species Act.
- Today, it engages over 1 billion people globally in activities promoting environmental protection.
Challenges Highlighted by Earth Day
| Issue | Impact |
|---|---|
| Deforestation | Loss of biodiversity and carbon sinks. |
| Air and Water Pollution | Health hazards and ecosystem destruction. |
| Plastic Pollution | Marine life endangerment, soil and water contamination. |
| Groundwater Depletion | Freshwater scarcity for agriculture and drinking. |
| Climate Change | More frequent extreme weather events (droughts, floods). |
🇮🇳 India’s Sustainability Efforts
National Initiatives
- Panchamrit Pledge (COP26, Glasgow):
- Reach 500 GW non-fossil energy capacity by 2030.
- Reduce total carbon emissions by 1 billion tonnes by 2030.
- Decrease carbon intensity of GDP by 45% by 2030.
- Achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.
- International Solar Alliance (ISA):
- Promote solar energy adoption globally, especially among tropical countries.
- Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles (FAME):
- Reduce vehicular emissions by supporting electric mobility.
- National Hydrogen Mission (2021):
- Develop green hydrogen for clean energy.
Legal and Policy Framework
| Law/Policy | Focus |
|---|---|
| Environment Protection Act, 1986 | Umbrella legislation for environmental protection post-Bhopal Gas tragedy. |
| Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 | Promote plastic waste reduction and recycling. |
| E-Waste Management Rules, 2016 | Responsible handling of electronic waste. |
| Forest Conservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023 | Regulates diversion of forest land for non-forest use. |
Key Message: Beyond Symbolism
- Earth Day must move beyond token gestures like planting trees for one day.
- It must translate into lifestyle changes:
- Reduce, reuse, and recycle.
- Shift to renewable energy sources.
- Support green businesses and sustainable policies.
- Active citizen participation in policy advocacy and conservation.
Sustainability is now an existential necessity — “There is no Planet B.”
Summary
Earth Day, celebrated on April 22, underscores the global urgency to combat environmental degradation and adopt sustainable lifestyles. India has moved beyond symbolism through initiatives like the Panchamrit pledge, the International Solar Alliance, and the National Hydrogen Mission. Key issues like deforestation, pollution, and climate change remain critical. Earth Day must inspire consistent policy reforms and individual action, not one-day gestures.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. Which of the following were outcomes of the first Earth Day in 1970?
- Clean Water Act
- Paris Agreement
- Endangered Species Act
- Environment Protection Act, 1986
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 2 and 4 only
C. 1, 2, and 3 only
D. All of the above
Answer: A
The Paris Agreement came much later (2015). The Environment Protection Act (1986) was India-specific.
2. Consider the following national initiatives:
- National Hydrogen Mission
- FAME Scheme
- International Solar Alliance
- Jal Jeevan Mission
Which of the above directly aim to reduce carbon emissions?
A. 1, 2, and 3 only
B. 1 and 4 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. All of the above
Answer: A
Mains :
1. Earth Day must be a catalyst for sustainable policy actions rather than symbolic celebrations. Discuss in the context of India’s climate commitments and environmental challenges.
(GS Paper 3 – Environment and Ecology)
2. Cloudburst and Its Impact in Ramban District – Environment
Why in News?
- Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir recently experienced devastating weather due to torrential rainfall and hail.
- The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported 9 mm rainfall in 24 hours — a 575% increase from the normal 2.5 mm.
- The region suffered from flash floods, landslides, and agricultural damage.
What is a Cloudburst?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Definition | A localized, intense rainfall event — 10 cm or more within an hour over an area of ~10 km x 10 km. |
| Intensity | Even 5 cm in 30 minutes qualifies as a cloudburst. |
| Common in | Mountainous regions like Himalayas, Western Ghats, due to orographic lift. |
| Effect | Overwhelms natural and manmade drainage systems, causing flash floods and landslides. |
Why are Cloudbursts Common in Mountains?
- Orographic Lift: Warm moist air is forced upward by mountains, cools rapidly, condenses, and releases intense rainfall.
- Temperature Gradient: Sharp differences in temperature in mountain regions intensify condensation.
- Localized Weather Systems: Valleys trap moisture-laden winds, increasing rainfall concentration.
Impacts of Cloudburst Events
| Impact | Description |
|---|---|
| Flash Floods | Rapid water flow inundates towns, destroys property, and cuts off roads. |
| Landslides | Saturated soil on mountain slopes collapses, blocking roads and rivers. |
| Agricultural Loss | Crops destroyed, impacting food security and livelihoods. |
| Infrastructure Damage | Homes, roads, and bridges get washed away. |
| Loss of Life | Sudden onset leaves little time for evacuation, increasing fatalities. |
Flash Floods vs Riverine Floods
| Aspect | Flash Floods | Riverine Floods |
|---|---|---|
| Onset | Sudden (within minutes or hours). | Gradual (over days or weeks). |
| Duration | Short-lived. | Long-lasting. |
| Location | Localized (steep terrain, rocky soil). | Spread across floodplains. |
| Cause | Intense rainfall, cloudbursts. | Overflowing rivers due to prolonged rain. |
| Damage Type | High fatalities; severe immediate damage. | Widespread economic and property damage. |
Why Cloudbursts Are Difficult to Predict?
- Localized Nature: Occurs in small, isolated pockets; difficult to detect with large-scale models.
- Lack of Dense Weather Stations: Sparse monitoring in mountain regions.
- Rapid Development: Clouds form, intensify, and burst quickly, giving little warning time.
Mitigation Measures
- Early Warning Systems: Install Doppler radars and satellite monitoring in vulnerable zones.
- Land Use Regulation: Prevent construction in high-risk flood and landslide zones.
- Community Awareness: Educate people on emergency responses during sudden floods.
- Improved Drainage Infrastructure: Upgrade drainage systems to handle sudden water surges.
Summary
A cloudburst is a sudden, intense rainfall event that frequently occurs in mountainous regions such as the Himalayas, driven by orographic uplift and thermal gradients. The recent event in Ramban district (J&K) caused devastating flash floods, landslides, and agricultural losses. These disasters are high-impact and difficult to predict, making mitigation efforts like early warning systems, land-use regulation, and public awareness crucial. With climate change increasing the frequency of extreme events, such incidents highlight the need for integrated disaster risk management.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. What qualifies an event as a cloudburst in meteorological terms?
A. Any rainfall that causes a flood
B. Rainfall of 5 cm or more over 100 km² in one day
C. Rainfall of 10 cm or more in an hour over ~10 km²
D. Any rainfall over a mountain area
Answer: C
2. Flash floods caused by cloudbursts differ from riverine floods in which of the following ways?
- Flash floods are sudden and short-lived.
- Riverine floods are localized and confined to hill slopes.
- Flash floods are primarily caused by orographic rainfall.
- Riverine floods result from overflow of rivers due to sustained rains.
A. 1, 3, and 4 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2, 3, and 4 only
D. All of the above
Answer: A
Mains :
1. What are cloudbursts and why are they more frequent in mountainous regions? Discuss their impacts and suggest mitigation strategies.
(GS Paper 3 – Disaster Management)
3. Sunrise Industries and India’s Manufacturing Goals – Economy
Why in News?
- Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced India’s plan to boost the manufacturing sector’s contribution to GDP from 12% to 23% over the next two decades.
- The growth of sunrise sectors is seen as a critical driver for achieving this target.
What are Sunrise Industries?
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Definition | Industries that are in the early stages of growth, marked by rapid innovation, high investment, and startup activity. |
| Characteristics | High growth potential, disruptive technologies, job creation opportunities, new market development. |
| Examples | – Alternative Energy (solar, wind, green hydrogen) – Social Media and Cloud Computing (2011-12 boom) – Blockchain Technologies (2013-17 expansion) – Information Technology (continuing growth) – Clean Energy and Electric Vehicles (emerging strongly). |
Life Cycle of an Industry
| Phase | Characteristics | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Sunrise Phase | Rapid innovation, growth, high investment. | Solar Energy (current) |
| Maturity Phase | Market saturation, slower growth. | Smartphones |
| Sunset Phase | Declining demand, technology replacement. | Compact Discs (CDs) |
- Compact Discs: Thrived in the 1990s but declined with the rise of digital media and streaming platforms in the 2000s.
Why Focus on Sunrise Industries for India?
- Enhances Economic Growth: High-growth sectors contribute more to GDP.
- Job Creation: New industries mean new skills and employment opportunities.
- Boosts Exports: Innovative sectors help create globally competitive products.
- Reduces Import Dependency: Building domestic capabilities in critical technologies like semiconductors.
- Supports Climate Goals: Clean energy industries help achieve net-zero targets.
Policy Initiatives Supporting Sunrise Industries
| Initiative | Purpose |
|---|---|
| PLI (Production Linked Incentive) Schemes | Promote manufacturing in electronics, solar panels, EVs, telecom, etc. |
| Semicon India Programme | Build semiconductor and display manufacturing capacity. |
| National Electric Mobility Mission | Push for EV adoption and manufacturing. |
| National Green Hydrogen Mission | Create a green hydrogen economy. |
| Startup India, Make in India | Promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and domestic manufacturing. |
Global Context
- China, South Korea, and the US have successfully leveraged sunrise industries like electric vehicles, biotechnology, and AI to dominate global supply chains.
- India’s goal: Become the next global hub for sunrise sectors and reduce dependency on legacy (sunset) industries.
Way Forward
- Focus on R&D: Increase investments in research, patents, and innovations.
- Skill Development: Train the workforce for AI, EVs, green energy, biotechnology.
- Infrastructure and Ease of Doing Business: Build world-class facilities and cut red tape.
- Sustainability and Climate Action: Align sunrise industry growth with sustainable practices.
- Export-Oriented Strategy: Position Indian products competitively in global markets.
Summary
Sunrise industries, like clean energy, semiconductors, and electric vehicles, are essential to India’s transition to a high-value, innovation-driven economy. With supportive policies like PLI and the Green Hydrogen Mission, India can reduce import dependence, create jobs, and meet climate goals. Success, however, depends on R&D investment, workforce training, and strategic global positioning.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. Which of the following are considered sunrise sectors?
- Compact Disc manufacturing
- Solar energy
- Artificial Intelligence
- Typewriter production
A. 2 and 3 only
Mains :
1. Sunrise industries can serve as the cornerstone of India’s ambition to increase the share of manufacturing in GDP. Discuss the opportunities and challenges associated with promoting sunrise sectors in India.
(GS Paper 3 – Indian Economy)
4. India’s Potential in the Arctic Region – InternationaI Relations
Why in News?
- Climate change is rapidly transforming the Arctic, melting ice caps and opening up new global trade routes like the Northern Sea Route (NSR).
- India is reassessing its Arctic strategy to enhance economic, scientific, and diplomatic engagement.
- The 2025-26 Budget announced a $3 billion Maritime Development Fund to build Arctic-ready shipping and port infrastructure.
Importance of the Arctic
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Climate Regulation | Arctic ice acts as a global air conditioner, regulating Earth’s temperature. |
| New Trade Routes | Northern Sea Route (NSR) cuts travel time between Europe and Asia by 40% compared to the Suez Canal. |
| Natural Resources | Estimated to hold 13% of the world’s undiscovered oil and 30% of undiscovered gas reserves. |
| Geopolitical Tensions | Growing competition among Russia, China, US, and EU nations for Arctic influence. |
India’s Arctic Policy (2022)
| Pillar | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Science and Research | Expand polar scientific research (e.g., Himadri Research Station, Svalbard). |
| Climate and Environmental Protection | Study Arctic’s impact on Indian monsoons and sea levels. |
| Economic and Human Development | Explore sustainable Arctic resource use, promote connectivity. |
| Connectivity | Engage with Arctic trade routes (e.g., NSR) to diversify shipping options. |
| International Cooperation | Strengthen partnerships through forums like Arctic Council, bilateral ties. |
The Northern Sea Route (NSR)
| Feature | Significance |
|---|---|
| Route | Runs along the Russian Arctic coastline. |
| Shorter Distance | Reduces shipping distance by about 40% between Europe and Asia. |
| Cost Efficiency | Lower fuel costs and reduced shipping time. |
| Challenges | Requires specialized ice-class vessels, unpredictable weather, and political uncertainties. |
Diplomatic and Strategic Challenges
- Russia Factor: Deepening ties with Russia (especially after Ukraine crisis) but balancing Western partnerships.
- China’s Polar Strategy: China’s “Polar Silk Road” ambitions via Arctic routes could heighten competition.
- Arctic Governance: India is an Observer State in the Arctic Council (since 2013), but decision-making power is limited.
- Alliances: Collaborating with Japan, South Korea, and Nordic countries could bolster India’s Arctic presence.
Strategic Recommendations
- Appoint a Polar Ambassador: To better articulate India’s Arctic interests diplomatically.
- Strengthen Scientific Diplomacy: Lead joint research projects on climate studies, biodiversity, and navigation technologies.
- Invest in Arctic-Ready Technology: Build ice-class shipping fleets and polar research infrastructure.
- Enhance Maritime Strategy: Integrate Arctic engagement into India’s broader “Indo-Pacific” vision.
- Balancing Act: Maintain strategic neutrality, engaging both Russia and Western Arctic powers.
Why India’s Arctic Engagement Matters
| Benefit | Impact |
|---|---|
| Climate Resilience | Studying Arctic melting helps predict Indian monsoon behavior. |
| Trade Security | Access to alternative shipping routes reduces dependence on chokepoints like Malacca Strait. |
| Energy Security | Opportunities for securing oil and gas supplies. |
| Global Leadership | Enhances India’s credibility in global environmental and governance discussions. |
Summary
The Arctic’s strategic and environmental importance is growing rapidly due to climate change, opening trade routes like the Northern Sea Route and unlocking critical natural resources. India’s Arctic Policy (2022) reflects a strong scientific and environmental focus but now requires deeper economic, maritime, and diplomatic integration. With the 2025 budgetary boost for Arctic-ready infrastructure, India has an opportunity to expand its presence. However, India must balance its Russia ties, counter China’s Arctic ambitions, and develop Arctic-specific capabilities to become a credible stakeholder in the polar region.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. The Northern Sea Route (NSR), recently in news, connects:
A. Indian Ocean to Arctic Ocean
B. Europe to Asia via the Russian Arctic coast
C. Atlantic Ocean to Pacific Ocean via Panama
D. Arctic Ocean to Mediterranean Sea
Answer: B
2. With reference to India’s Arctic Policy, which of the following are key focus areas?
- Scientific research
- Mineral extraction
- Climate and environmental protection
- Maritime connectivity
A. 1, 3, and 4 only
B. 1, 2, and 3 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. All of the above
Answer: A
Mains :
1. Discuss the strategic significance of the Arctic region for India. How can India balance economic opportunities and diplomatic challenges in its Arctic engagement?
(GS Paper 2 – International Relations)
5. Terror Attack on Tourists in J&K’s Pahalgam – Defence & Security
Why in News?
- Twenty-eight people, mostly tourists, were killed in a terrorist attack in Baisaran Valley, Pahalgam (Anantnag district, J&K).
- This is the deadliest attack since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019.
- The attack was claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy group allegedly backed by Pakistan’s ISI and linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
- The difficult terrain complicated rescue efforts and amplified the tragedy.
About Pahalgam
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Anantnag district, ~90 km from Srinagar Airport |
| Famous For | Hill station, trekking base, natural beauty |
| Key Attractions | Amarnath Cave Temple, Betaab Valley, Aru Wildlife Sanctuary, Tulian Lake, Baisaran (“Mini Switzerland”) |
| Significance | Important religious, ecological, and tourism hub in J&K |
Key Details of the Attack
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Group Involved | The Resistance Front (TRF) |
| Modus Operandi | Ambush on tourist group in a remote, elevated area |
| Victims | Largely domestic tourists and local support staff |
| Impact | Loss of life, disruption to tourism, increased security concerns |
About The Resistance Front (TRF)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Formation | Post-Article 370 abrogation (2019) |
| Affiliations | Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Pakistani ISI |
| Target Profile | Tourists, migrant workers, minorities, security forces |
| Objective | Destabilize J&K, counter the narrative of normalcy |
| Tactics | Urban guerrilla attacks, soft target killings |
Implications
| Domain | Impact |
|---|---|
| Internal Security | Reinforces need for continued vigilance despite improved surface-level normalcy. |
| Tourism Sector | Potential decline in tourist footfall; affects livelihoods in a region reliant on tourism. |
| Regional Stability | Undermines efforts to project J&K as peaceful post-Article 370. |
| International Relations | Timing (near diplomatic visits) suggests attempts to embarrass India internationally. |
Way Forward
- Enhanced Intelligence and Surveillance: Improve real-time intelligence in tourist zones and remote areas.
- Targeted Counter-Terror Operations: Focus on eliminating new proxy groups like TRF.
- Tourist Protection Measures: Deploy special tourist protection forces and secure major trekking routes.
- Community Engagement: Strengthen collaboration with local communities for early warning and counter-radicalization.
- Diplomatic Strategy: Internationally expose state-sponsored terror links to maintain global pressure on Pakistan.
Summary
The recent terror attack in Pahalgam (J&K) by The Resistance Front (TRF) is a reminder of the evolving proxy terror threats despite India’s efforts to stabilize the region post-Article 370. It has significant implications for internal security, tourism, and India’s global image. While initiatives like infrastructure development and diplomatic engagement continue, the growing presence of new-age terror groups necessitates strong intelligence networks, community policing, and international cooperation to ensure long-term peace and security in Jammu and Kashmir.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. The Resistance Front (TRF), recently seen in news, is:
A. A new political party in Kashmir
B. A tribal rights organization in central India
C. A proxy terror group linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba
D. A UN-funded peacekeeping mission in South Asia
Answer: C
2. Which of the following regions in Jammu & Kashmir is known as “Mini Switzerland” due to its scenic beauty?
A. Gulmarg
B. Sonmarg
C. Baisaran Valley
D. Poonch
Answer: C
Mains :
1. Discuss the challenges posed by emerging proxy terror groups in Jammu and Kashmir. What measures are needed to ensure internal security and safeguard the tourism sector in the region?
(GS Paper 3 – Internal Security)
6. Arctic Amplification
Why in News?
- The 2024 European State of the Climate Report reveals alarming warming trends.
- Europe has warmed nearly twice as fast as the global average.
- The phenomenon of Arctic Amplification is significantly influencing global and regional climate patterns.
What is Arctic Amplification?
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Definition | Arctic Amplification refers to the phenomenon where temperatures in polar regions (especially the Arctic) increase faster than the global average. |
| Primary Driver | Changes in the Earth’s radiation balance due to greenhouse gas emissions (e.g., CO₂, CH₄). |
Causes of Arctic Amplification
| Factor | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Ice-Albedo Feedback | As ice melts, darker land or ocean surfaces are exposed, absorbing more sunlight and accelerating warming. |
| Lapse Rate Feedback | In cold regions, a small increase in surface temperature leads to a proportionally larger reduction in outgoing heat radiation, enhancing warming. |
| Water Vapour Feedback | Warmer air holds more water vapour, a greenhouse gas, amplifying the warming. |
| Ocean Heat Transport | Ocean currents bring warmer waters to polar regions, further accelerating ice melt and temperature rise. |
Key Findings from the Report
- Global Average Warming: ~3°C since pre-industrial times (1850-1900).
- Europe’s Warming: Crossed the 5°C threshold in parts for the first time.
- Regional Variations:
- Eastern Europe: Sunnier and warmer.
- Western Europe: Wetter and cloudier.
- Southeastern Europe: Longest-ever heatwave (Bulgaria, Romania, Serbia, Croatia).
Why is Arctic Amplification a Concern?
| Impact Area | Consequences |
|---|---|
| Ecosystems | Disruption of Arctic ecosystems; loss of species dependent on ice. |
| Sea-Level Rise | Melting glaciers and ice sheets contribute to rising sea levels. |
| Weather Extremes | Altered jet streams lead to extreme weather patterns globally (e.g., heatwaves, floods). |
| Global Warming Acceleration | Faster Arctic warming feeds back into global climate systems, hastening overall warming. |
Urgent Need for Action
- Strengthen efforts to limit global temperature rise to below 2°C, ideally 1.5°C, as per the Paris Agreement.
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions rapidly through renewable energy, conservation efforts, and sustainable development.
- Global cooperation is essential to mitigate Arctic-related climate risks that affect the entire planet.
Summary
Arctic Amplification refers to the disproportionately rapid warming of the Arctic due to feedback mechanisms like ice-albedo loss, water vapour increase, and oceanic heat transport. It disrupts not just the polar ecosystem but has planet-wide consequences, including sea-level rise and intensification of extreme weather events due to changes in jet streams. The 2024 climate data signals a climate emergency, urging faster mitigation, global cooperation, and commitment to the Paris Agreement targets to avoid irreversible damage.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. Which of the following best explains the term Arctic Amplification?
A. The Arctic region’s contribution to ozone layer depletion
B. The Arctic’s role in reflecting solar radiation during winters
C. The accelerated warming of the Arctic compared to the global average
D. Amplification of sound waves in the polar atmosphere
Answer: C
2. Consider the following mechanisms:
- Ice-Albedo Feedback
- Lapse Rate Feedback
- Ocean Acidification
- Water Vapour Feedback
Which of the above contribute to Arctic Amplification?
A. 1, 2, and 4 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2, 3, and 4 only
D. All of the above
Answer: A
Ocean acidification is a consequence of CO₂ absorption but not a direct driver of Arctic amplification.
Mains :
1. What is Arctic Amplification? Explain its causes and discuss how it influences global and regional climate patterns.
(GS Paper 3 – Environment)