1. India’s Direction for Disaster Resilience – Environment
Why in News?
India, one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world, is increasingly vulnerable to climate-induced disasters such as heatwaves, cyclones, extreme rainfall, floods, and landslides. In response, India has strengthened its Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) framework over the last decade, shifting from reactive relief to a comprehensive, proactive resilience-building approach.
Key Facts
15th Finance Commission (2021–26) allocated ₹2.28 lakh crore ($30 billion) for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR).
30% of this fund is earmarked for:
10% for capacity building
20% for mitigation measures
Nature-Based Solutions (NbS): ₹10,000 crore worth projects to restore ecosystems for climate resilience.
Community Volunteer Programs:
Apda Mitra & Yuva Apda Mitra – over 2.5 lakh trained individuals
International Cooperation:
India is a founding member of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI)
Guiding Policy: Prime Minister’s Ten-Point Agenda on Disaster Risk Reduction (2016)
Implementing Bodies: Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)
Background
Evolution in Disaster Management:
India has moved from reactive disaster relief to a multi-dimensional strategy that integrates:
Preparedness
Mitigation
Capacity Building
Community Involvement
Climate Adaptation
Importance of Financing for Resilience:
The 15th Finance Commission’s recommendation reflects a shift in how disaster resilience is funded — emphasizing preventive spending rather than only post-disaster relief.
Nature-Based Solutions (NbS):
NbS projects focus on restoring natural buffers like wetlands, mangroves, and forests to absorb climate shocks — e.g., in coastal areas under the National Cyclone Mitigation Programme.
Community Engagement:
Programs like Apda Mitra ensure that disaster response isn’t just institutional but also community-driven, increasing local preparedness and response capabilities.
Global Role:
India is positioning itself as a global leader in resilient infrastructure via the CDRI, sharing best practices and enhancing South-South cooperation.
Implications
For India:
Reduced disaster impact due to improved preparedness
Greater fiscal discipline and long-term planning
Inclusive governance with grassroots involvement
For Himachal Pradesh:
Increased relevance due to vulnerability to landslides, cloudbursts, and flash floods
Scope for implementing NbS like afforestation, slope stabilization, and riverbank restoration
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. With reference to disaster risk reduction in India, consider the following statements:
1.The 15th Finance Commission allocated 50% of disaster funds for recovery and rehabilitation only.
2.The Apda Mitra scheme is aimed at training youth volunteers for community-based disaster response.
Which of the statements is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: B. 2 only
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect; 30% is allocated for preparedness and mitigation, not 50% for recovery.
2. What is the primary objective of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) in India’s disaster risk strategy?
A. To enhance urban infrastructure
B. To reduce carbon emissions in agriculture
C. To restore ecosystems for climate resilience
D. To fund post-disaster relief measures
Answer: C. To restore ecosystems for climate resilience
Mains
1.Discuss how India’s approach to disaster management has evolved in recent years. Highlight the role of financial planning and community engagement in this transition. (250 words)
2.Examine the significance of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) in building long-term climate resilience. How can such solutions be adapted for disaster-prone hilly states like Himachal Pradesh? (250 words)
2. Reducing Judicial Backlogs in India through ADR Mechanisms – Polity
Why in News?
With over 4.5 crore cases pending in Indian courts, the Government of India has renewed efforts to strengthen Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms such as mediation, arbitration, and Lok Adalats. These mechanisms aim to reduce judicial burden, ensure timely justice, and promote affordable, accessible legal solutions for the public.
Key Facts
Pending Cases: Over 4.5 crore cases pending across all levels of judiciary.
ADR Mechanisms Include:
Arbitration
Mediation
Conciliation
Lok Adalats
Constitutional Basis:
Article 39A – Ensures equal access to justice and provision of free legal aid.
Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987:
Provides statutory backing for Lok Adalats.
India Justice Report 2024:
Judicial vacancies > 20% in many courts.
Some states report 4,000+ cases per judge workload.
Recent Reform:
Institutionalization of Pre-Litigation Mediation to settle disputes before court registration.
Background
What is Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)?
ADR refers to non-judicial mechanisms that allow dispute resolution outside traditional court systems. These are:
Quicker
Cost-effective
Informal
Less adversarial
They align with constitutional values of justice, especially for the economically weaker sections.
Significance of Mediation:
As per former Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, mediation isn’t just a dispute tool but also a mechanism of social transformation, helping align everyday disputes with constitutional morality and justice.
Importance of Lok Adalats:
Conducted by State Legal Services Authorities (SLSA)
Disputes resolved without procedural rigidity
Decisions are final and binding, with no appeal.
Pre-Litigation Mediation:
A new initiative encouraging parties to resolve disputes even before filing cases in court. It saves judicial time and resources and fosters amicable resolution.
Implications
For India:
Reduces burden on judiciary
Speeds up justice delivery
Makes India a more attractive destination for global investors due to efficient legal dispute resolution.
For Himachal Pradesh:
ADR can help in resolving local property disputes, land acquisition issues, and family disputes, especially in rural and tribal belts.
Promotion of Lok Adalats and mobile mediation units in remote areas can improve access to justice.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. Which Article of the Indian Constitution provides for equal access to justice and free legal aid?
A. Article 32
B. Article 21
C. Article 39A
D. Article 50
Answer: C. Article 39A
2. Consider the following statements about Lok Adalats:
1.Their decisions are not binding on the parties.
2.They were established under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987.
3.They can handle both civil and criminal cases.
Which of the statements is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. All of the above
Answer: B. 2 only
Explanation: Lok Adalats can handle only compoundable criminal cases. Their decisions are final and binding.
Mains
1.Discuss the role of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms in ensuring timely and affordable justice delivery in India. Highlight recent government initiatives in this regard. (250 words)
2.Judicial delays pose a serious challenge to the rule of law in India. Examine the causes of judicial backlog and suggest reforms to enhance judicial efficiency. (250 words)
3. Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary: A Biodiversity Hotspot in Delhi NCR – Environment
Why in News?
As part of Wildlife Week celebrations (October 3–8), Delhi’s Forest and Wildlife Department has launched a series of daily bird walks at the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary, aiming to promote biodiversity awareness and eco-tourism.
Key Facts
Location:
Located on the Southern Ridge of Delhi (part of Aravalli hills)
Spans Delhi and Haryana (Faridabad and Gurugram districts)
Area Covered: 32.71 sq. km
Ecological Importance:
Part of the North Aravalli Leopard Wildlife Corridor
Transition zone between the Aravallis and the Indo-Gangetic Plains
Forest Type (Champion & Seth classification, 1968):
Northern Tropical Thorn Forests
Dominated by xerophytic plants: thorny, waxy, and hairy-leaved species
Key Flora:
Trees: Neem, Peepal, Jamun
Known for medicinal plants diversity
Key Fauna:
Mammals: Nilgai, Indian Hare, Porcupine, Indian Grey Mongoose
Birds: 200+ species including
Indian Peafowl
Red Junglefowl
Indian Grey Hornbill
Background
Ecological Significance:
The Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary acts as a green buffer zone for Delhi, mitigating pollution and urban heat island effects.
It forms a vital link in the North Aravalli Leopard Corridor, aiding the movement and survival of species in a fragmented urban landscape.
Biodiversity Value:
As a rich bird habitat, it supports species from both Aravalli forests and Indo-Gangetic plains, making it an important site for ornithological studies.
The sanctuary plays a key role in urban wildlife conservation and serves as a living laboratory for environmental education.
Threats and Conservation Needs:
Encroachment, pollution, and quarrying in the Aravallis threaten the sanctuary’s ecological balance.
Conservation efforts like controlled eco-tourism, citizen participation (bird walks), and awareness programs are essential for long-term sustainability.
Implications
For India:
Highlights the importance of urban wildlife sanctuaries in conservation and education.
Reinforces the need for Aravalli conservation, crucial for the ecological stability of North India.
For Himachal Pradesh:
Although Himachal has different ecosystems, the model of community-led awareness (e.g., bird walks) can be replicated in protected forest areas and wildlife sanctuaries to promote conservation through eco-tourism.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. Consider the following statements about Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary:
1.It is part of the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot.
2.It lies on the Delhi-Haryana border and is part of the Aravalli range.
3.It is classified under Northern Tropical Moist Deciduous Forests.
Which of the statements is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1 and 3 only
Answer: B. 2 only
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect (it’s not in Western Ghats), and statement 3 is incorrect (it is Tropical Thorn Forest).
2. The North Aravalli Leopard Wildlife Corridor, often mentioned in news, includes which of the following?
A. Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve
B. Aravalli Range in Haryana and Delhi
C. Kaziranga National Park
D. Western Ghats in Kerala
Answer: B. Aravalli Range in Haryana and Delhi
Mains
1.Discuss the ecological importance of urban wildlife sanctuaries in India. In this context, examine the role of the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary in biodiversity conservation. (250 words)
2.Urbanization is increasingly threatening natural ecosystems. Analyze how urban green spaces like the Asola Bhatti Sanctuary can balance ecological conservation with public awareness and recreation. (250 words)
4. India’s Only Mud Volcano Erupts After 20 Years in Andamans – Environment
Why in News?
India’s only mud volcano, located on Baratang Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has erupted after over two decades of dormancy. This rare geological event sheds light on the active tectonic processes shaping the region.
Key Facts
Location:
Baratang Island, ~100–150 km north of Port Blair
Lies in North and Middle Andaman district
Volcanic Uniqueness:
India’s only mud volcano
Total of 11 mud volcanoes reported in the Andaman archipelago
Recent Volcanic Activity:
Barren Island also erupted recently — India’s only active lava volcano
Nature of Eruption:
Emits cool mud, water, and gases like methane and hydrogen sulfide
Forms mud cones and bubbling pools, unlike hot lava eruptions
Tectonic Setting:
Caused by subduction of Indian Plate under the Burmese Plate
Scientific Importance:
Offers insights into:
Fluid migration
Methane release
Crustal deformation in subduction zones
Accessibility:
Reachable by a 160-meter walk from the nearest road
Close to the Jarawa Tribal Reserve (photography restricted for ethical reasons)
Background
What is a Mud Volcano?
A mud volcano is a geological formation where mud, gas, and water are ejected from underground, often under low pressure.
No magma is involved.
Emissions are usually cool or lukewarm.
Often linked to tectonic activity or hydrocarbon presence.
Baratang Island’s Geological Relevance:
The island sits on an active subduction zone, making it a natural laboratory for studying seismic and volcanic activity.
Unlike the lava volcano of Barren Island, Baratang’s volcano reveals sedimentary layer disturbances.
Tectonic Implications:
Subduction of the Indian Plate under the Burmese Plate generates pressures that push fluids and gases upward, forming mud volcanoes.
This region is part of the Sunda Arc, a highly active seismic belt.
Environmental & Scientific Importance:
Methane emissions from such volcanoes are significant for climate research.
Monitoring such eruptions helps assess earthquake potential and geothermal activity.
Can indirectly indicate hydrocarbon reservoirs.
Implications
For India:
Emphasizes the seismic vulnerability of the Andaman & Nicobar region
Enhances disaster preparedness and geological surveillance in island territories
For Scientific Community:
Opportunity for volcanology, seismology, and climate change studies
Aids in understanding methane cycles and gas seepage
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. Consider the following statements:
1.The mud volcano at Baratang emits hot lava and ash like typical volcanoes.
2.The recent mud volcano eruption is associated with the subduction of the Indian Plate beneath the Burmese Plate.
3.Barren Island is India’s only active mud volcano.
Which of the statements is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1 and 3 only
Answer: B. 2 only
Explanation: Baratang is a mud volcano (not lava), and Barren Island is a lava volcano.
2. Which of the following best describes a mud volcano?
A. A volcano that erupts only during earthquakes
B. A volcanic feature that emits lava with high viscosity
C. A low-temperature geological feature that emits mud, water, and gases
D. A dormant volcanic cone found only in cold regions
Answer: C. A low-temperature geological feature that emits mud, water, and gases
Mains
1.What is a mud volcano? Discuss the geological significance of the recent eruption of India’s only mud volcano in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. (250 words)
2.Explain the tectonic processes behind the formation of mud volcanoes. How can such events contribute to our understanding of climate and geological activity in subduction zones? (250 words)
5. Treat Employment as a National Priority – Economy
Why in News?
India, now the world’s most populous country, is set to witness a surge of 133 million people entering the workforce over the next 25 years—18% of the global workforce addition. However, this demographic dividend is time-bound, with the working-age population expected to peak by 2043. This creates urgency for India to make employment generation a central pillar of economic policy.
Key Facts
Demographic Projection:
India to add ~133 million working-age individuals in 25 years
Peak working-age population expected around 2043
Current Issues:
Fragmented and reactive employment strategies
Mismatch between education/training and market needs
Integrated National Employment Policy (INEP):
Proposed policy to unify employment programs
To be aligned with industrial, trade, education, and labor policies
Labour-Intensive Sectors Prioritized:
Textiles, Tourism, Agro-processing, Real Estate, Healthcare
MSME Sector: Employs 250 million+ people
Gender Inclusion Measures:
Focus on increasing female labor force participation (FLFP)
Programs like Employment-Linked Incentive (ELI), and better childcare support
Employment Quality Focus:
Better wages, safe working conditions, and social security
Data Transparency:
Need to improve employment data collection, surveys, and real-time analytics for evidence-based policy
Background
Why Employment Should Be a National Priority:
Demographic window is a one-time opportunity. If not utilized, it may turn into a demographic burden.
Jobless growth can lead to social unrest, increased inequality, and rural distress.
Structural Issues in India’s Job Market:
Over-reliance on the informal sector (~90% of jobs)
Skilling ecosystem not aligned with market demand
Limited growth in manufacturing and mid-skill jobs
Role of the Integrated National Employment Policy (INEP):
Would provide a cohesive framework across ministries
Helps avoid policy duplication, ensures resource optimization
Integrates job creation with trade, education, skilling, and industrial development
Gender-Inclusive Growth:
India’s Female Labor Force Participation Rate (FLFPR) is among the lowest globally (~20%)
Improving FLFPR can boost GDP by 27% (as per IMF estimates)
Requires systemic changes: safety, maternity benefits, flexible work, rural employment, and skilling
Need for Quality Jobs:
Not just employment, but decent employment with job security, minimum wages, and dignity of labor is essential for sustainable livelihoods and poverty reduction
Implications
For India:
Strategic job creation is central to India’s ambition of becoming a $5 trillion economy
Employment policies directly affect poverty, inequality, and social mobility
Encouraging entrepreneurship, formalization, and digital economy can diversify job opportunities
For Himachal Pradesh:
High potential in tourism, horticulture, handloom, and ecotourism for job creation
Need to expand rural skilling programs, support women SHGs, and promote agri-based MSMEs
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. Consider the following statements:
1.The Integrated National Employment Policy (INEP) aims to unify employment programs across sectors.
2.The working-age population in India is expected to peak by 2055.
3.Employment-Linked Incentive (ELI) scheme focuses on providing subsidies for start-ups.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A. 1 only
Explanation: Statement 2 is incorrect (peak expected by ~2043); Statement 3 is incorrect (ELI supports employment generation, not specifically for start-ups).
2. Which of the following sectors are identified as labor-intensive for job creation in India?
1.Real Estate
2.Biotechnology
3.Textiles
4.Agro-processing
Select the correct answer using the code below:
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 2 and 4 only
C. 1, 3 and 4 only
D. All of the above
Answer: C. 1, 3 and 4 only
Mains
1.Discuss the need for a comprehensive national employment policy in India. What are the key components that such a policy must address to ensure inclusive and sustainable job growth? (250 words)
2.India’s demographic dividend offers a unique opportunity for economic growth. Examine the challenges in harnessing this dividend and suggest policy interventions for maximizing employment potential. (250 words)
6. Coral Triangle and the Philippines’ Coral Larvae Cryobank Initiative – Environment
Why in News?
The Philippines has announced the establishment of Southeast Asia’s first coral larvae cryobank, aimed at preserving coral genetic material. This initiative will connect marine research institutions across the Coral Triangle, which is considered the epicentre of global marine biodiversity.
Key Facts
Coral Triangle spans 10 million+ sq. km, covering:
Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, Solomon Islands, and parts of Thailand and Taiwan
Marine Significance:
Referred to as the “Amazon of the Seas”
Home to:
75% of the world’s coral species
33% of all reef fish species
Supports 120+ million people’s livelihoods
New Initiative:
Coral Larvae Cryobank in the Philippines
Purpose: Freeze and store coral larvae to preserve genetic diversity and support reef restoration
Key Threats to Coral Triangle:
Climate change
Pollution
Overfishing and destructive fishing practices
Coral bleaching and ocean acidification
Symbiotic Relationship:
Corals rely on zooxanthellae (photosynthetic algae) for nutrients
Coral polyps are sessile animals that form colonies and build reef structures
Background
What is the Coral Triangle?
A marine biodiversity hotspot with the highest concentration of coral and reef fish species in the world.
Acts as a breeding and feeding ground for marine life including turtles, tuna, and sharks.
Its reefs provide:
Coastal protection
Food security
Tourism revenue
Fishing livelihoods
What is a Coral Cryobank?
A facility that freezes and stores coral larvae or reproductive cells at ultra-low temperatures.
Preserves genetic material to:
Restore damaged reefs
Enhance resilience to climate change
Aid future research and reef rehabilitation projects
Significance of the Initiative:
First such regional facility in Southeast Asia
Promotes international cooperation across Coral Triangle countries
Important step for marine climate adaptation
Coral Bleaching and Climate Change:
Rising ocean temperatures cause corals to expel zooxanthellae, leading to bleaching and death.
Events like El Niño can rapidly destroy large sections of reef systems.
Cryobanks act as insurance against such widespread ecological loss.
Implications
For the Region:
Enhances resilience of marine ecosystems in the Coral Triangle
Supports transboundary conservation efforts across Asia-Pacific
For India:
India is not part of the Coral Triangle, but this initiative offers replicable models for:
Gulf of Mannar, Lakshadweep, and Andaman coral ecosystems
Encouraging cryopreservation technology for reef conservation
Boosting coastal blue economy through sustainable marine resource management
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
1. Consider the following countries:
1.Indonesia
2.Papua New Guinea
3.Maldives
4.Timor-Leste
Which of the above are part of the Coral Triangle?
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 2 and 4 only
C. 1, 2 and 4 only
D. All of the above
Answer: C. 1, 2 and 4 only
Explanation: Maldives is not part of the Coral Triangle.
2. Which of the following statements about corals is/are correct?
1.Corals are plants that depend on photosynthesis for food.
2.Coral polyps have a mutualistic relationship with zooxanthellae algae.
3.Coral reefs provide protection against coastal erosion.
Select the correct answer:
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
Explanation: Corals are animals, not plants. They host photosynthetic algae for nutrients.
Mains
1.What is the Coral Triangle, and why is it referred to as the “Amazon of the Seas”? Discuss the significance of the coral larvae cryobank initiative in the context of climate resilience. (250 words)
2.Examine the role of marine biodiversity conservation in addressing climate change. How can India adopt innovative approaches like cryobanking to protect its coastal and marine ecosystems? (250 words)