Current Affairs 04 November 2024

CONTENTS

1. Mangrove Forest
2. Odisha Enhances Genetic Diversity at Similipal Tiger Reserve with Tigress Translocation
3. Crisis in Ukraine and Gaza Impacts Global Fertilizer Supply, Pressuring India to Boost Production
4. Centre issued the Guidelines for Import of Live Seaweeds into India
5. Simhachalam Temple
6. Greenhouse Gas Bulletin

Mangrove Forest

Context:

Recently, Cyclone Dana’s landfall near Bhitarkanika National Park and Dhamra Port in Odisha underscored the essential role of mangrove forests in reducing cyclone impacts.  

Relevance:

GS III: Environment and Ecology

Dimensions of the Article:

1. Mangrove Forests: Presence and Significance
2. The current state of the mangroves

Mangrove Forests: Presence and Significance

• Mangrove forests comprise the interface between wetlands and sea grass meadows along a vast expanse of tropical shorelines all over the world.
• They also occur along bays, estuaries or mouths of rivers by these shores.
• Mangroves are present worldwide on various shorelines between approximately 25°N and 25°S latitude.
• Mangrove forests are one of the greatest sources of biodiversity on this planet.
• They have a rich underwater component, a surface component and an aerial component.
• Mangrove communities include fish, insects, shellfish, birds of many species, saltwater crocodiles, monkeys, algae and fungi.
• Many organisms, especially fish, spend their early years in the protection of the mangroves and their intricate below and above-ground root systems.

How are Mangrove Forests Useful?

• Mangroves, along with sea grasses and wetlands, comprise the ‘blue carbon’ ecosystem of stored carbon in sediments along many tropical and subtropical coastal zones.
• Their complex aerial and submerged root systems moderate current flows and the canopies moderate wind flow — they are the interface between the wetlands and sea grass communities for the continental flow of water and solutes into the ecosystem.
• Mangroves also supply fuelwood and other forest products, like food and medicine, for people.
• And, in addition to the nutrition they give us, mangroves protect us — along with other trees and forests, mangroves sequester a sizeable amount of carbon to offset greenhouse gas emissions created by human activities.
• When mangrove trees die of natural causes, they generally fall into the sea and the carbon may be stored in the sediment on the sea floor for long periods of time.

Types of Mangrove Trees

• The term ‘mangrove’ is used to refer to a whole community of trees and shrubs, which are not closely related.
• The Mangrove trees have all adapted to harsh coastal environments of saline, brackish waters and low oxygen conditions.
• There are over 100 species of trees and shrubs designated as mangroves.
• However, there are three classic groups of mangroves — the red mangroves (Rhizophoraceae), the black mangroves (Acanthaceae) and the white mangroves (Combretaceae).

The current state of the mangroves

• South Asia houses some of the most extensive areas of mangroves globally, while Indonesia hosts one-fifth of the overall amount.
• India holds around 3 percent of South Asia’s mangrove population.
• Besides the Sundarbans in West Bengal, the Andamans region, the Kachchh and Jamnagar areas in Gujarat too have substantial mangrove cover.
• However, infrastructure projects — industrial expansion and building of roads and railways, and natural processes — shifting coastlines, coastal erosion and storms, have resulted in a significant decrease in mangrove habitats.
• Between 2010 and 2020, around 600 sq km of mangroves were lost of which more than 62% was due to direct human impacts, the Global Mangrove Alliance said in its 2022 report.

-Source: Indian Express

Odisha Enhances Genetic Diversity at Similipal Tiger Reserve with Tigress Translocation

Context:

The Odisha government transferred a tigress named Jamuna, taken from Maharashtra’s Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, to the Odisha-based Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR). This strategic move aims to boost genetic diversity at Similipal, addressing concerns of inbreeding within the tiger population there due to its limited size.

Relevance:

GS III: Environment and Ecology

Dimensions of the Article:

1. Tiger Translocation Initiative Key Elements
2. About Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR)
3. Key Facts About Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve

Tiger Translocation Initiative Key Elements

Translocation of Tigress Sundari

• In 2018, Sundari, a tigress, was translocated to the Satkosia Tiger Reserve in Odisha under a project sanctioned by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).

Pseudo-melanistic Tigers

• The Odisha Tiger Estimation for 2024 revealed a population of 24 adult tigers in Similipal. The population consisted of a good number of pseudo-melanistic, or black tigers.
• Satkosia Tiger Reserve (STR) is recognized as the only wild habitat of these unique black tigers.
• An estimate of 13 pseudo-melanistic tigers out of 24 adult tigers indicate severe levels of inbreeding as well as the strong demand for genetic stratification in the future

Future Grooming Work

• Intelligent Safari Concept: Setting up the first-ever melanistic tiger safari on the global map is on the horizon at Similipal to create a future opportunity by increasing tourism besides disseminating information about tigers being groomed for conservation work.
• Conservation Objectives: They are one of the strategies to enhance genetic diversity while maintaining tiger populations in this region.

About Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR)

• Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) is a protected area located in the Mayurbhanj District in the Northernmost part of Odisha.
• It was declared a ‘Tiger Reserve’ in 1956 and is included in the national conservation programme ‘Project Tiger’ since 1973.

Location and Terrain:

• STR is surrounded by high plateaus and hills, with the highest peak being the twin peaks of Khairiburu and Meghashini (1515m above mean sea level).
• The terrain is mostly undulating and hilly, interspersed with open grasslands and wooded areas.

Vegetation:

• A mix of different forest types and habitats dominate, with Northern tropical moist deciduous dominating some semi-evergreen patches.
• Sal is the dominant tree species here.
• There are a staggering 1078 species of plants, including 94 species of orchids, found in STR.

Fauna:

•  STR is home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Royal Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Gaur, Elephant, Langur, Barking and Spotted Deer, Sloth Bear, Mongoose, Flying Squirrel, Porcupine, Turtle, Monitor Lizard, Python, Sambar, and Pangolin.
• The region around STR is home to a variety of tribes, including Kolha, Santhala, Bhumija, Bhatudi, Gondas, Khadia, Mankadia, and Sahara.

Other Facts:

• The STR, along with a ‘transitional area’ of 2250 sq. km, has been included as a part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves by UNESCO in 2009.
• It is the only landscape in the world that is home to melanistic tigers.

Key Facts About Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve

• It is located in Maharashtra and is the oldest and largest national park in the state.
• Tadoba/Taru is the local deity worshipped by the tribal people in the region.
• Andhari is derived from the Andhari river which flows through the reserve.
• It consists of two principal lakes, Tadoba Lake and Kolsa Lake, and the Tadoba River.

Biodiversity:

• Flora: Teak, semal, tendu, beheda, karaya gum, mahua madhuca, arjun, bamboo etc.

Fauna: Tigers, Indian leopards, sloth bears, gaurs, nilgai, dholes, small Indian civets, sambars, spotted deer, barking deer, and chital.

-Source: Hindustan Times

Crisis in Ukraine and Gaza Impacts Global Fertilizer Supply, Pressuring India to Boost Production

Context:

As the conflict persists in Ukraine and Gaza, there is growing concern over potential price increases for key components used in petroleum-based chemical fertilizers. In light of these challenges, Nicholas Sitko, a Senior Economist at the Food and Agriculture Organization, emphasized the necessity for India to enhance its fertilizer production capabilities. This urgency is underscored by a statement from the Agriculture Minister of Uttar Pradesh, India’s largest foodgrain-producing state, noting that the state has only ten days’ worth of fertilizer stocks left. This comes at a critical time as the sowing of winter rabi crops, which rely heavily on fertilizers like Diammonium phosphate (DAP) and NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium), is underway across India’s wheat-growing states.

Relevance:

GS III: Agriculture

Dimensions of the Article:

1. What is the current import fertilizer import scenario?
2. How has India’s fertilizer production changed?
3. Current Geopolitical Impact
4. Strategic Responses for India

What is the current import fertilizer import scenario?

• Though the latest data on import is yet to be made available by the Ministry, the Standing Committee of Parliament on Chemicals and Fertilizers, in August 2023, tabled a report on ‘Planning for Fertilizers Production and Import Policy on Fertilizers Including GST and Import Duty Thereon’ in both the Houses.
• It expressed concern that the “production capacity of fertilizers does not commensurate with its demand/requirement and, therefore, the gap between demand and supply is met through imports.”
• According to the report, about 20% of the domestic requirement of urea, 50-60% of the domestic requirement of DAP, and 100% of the domestic requirement of Muriate of Potassium (MOP, or Potash) is met through imports.

How has India’s fertilizer production changed?

• In 2021-22, India’s yearly consumption of all major chemical fertilizers was approximately 579.67 lakh metric tonnes (LMT), comprising 341.73 LMT of urea, 92.64 LMT of DAP, 23.93 LMT of MOP, and 121.37 LMT of NPK.
• In 2020-21, the total consumption of fertilizers was about 629.83 LMT. The country produced 435.95 LMT of chemical fertilizers in 2021-22, resulting in a shortfall of 143.72 LMT relative to demand.
• While MOP is not produced here, in 2021-22, India produced 250.72 LMT of urea, 42.22 LMT of DAP, 89.67 LMT of NPK, and 53.34 LMT of Single Super Phosphate (SSP). Total production in 2014-15 was 385.39 LMT, indicating an increase of only about 50 LMT over seven years.
• In the case of Urea, the most consumed fertilizer, in 2019-20, the production was 244.58 LMT and the use was 336.96 LMT. In 2020-21, the country produced 246.05 LMT of urea and consumed 350.51 LMT. In 2021-22, the figure was 250.72 LMT and 341.72 LMT, respectively.
• The Centre allocated ₹ 1.79 lakh crore as fertilizer subsidy under the Budget estimates for 2023-24.
• Out of this, for indigenous P&K Fertilizers, the subsidy amount was ₹25,500 crore and ₹18,500 crore for imported P&K Fertilizers.
• For indigenous Urea, the subsidy was ₹1,04,063.20 crore while the subsidy for imported urea was ₹ 31,000 crore.

Current Geopolitical Impact

• Ukraine and Gaza Crises: The conflict in Ukraine and instability in Gaza have disrupted global markets, particularly affecting the price of oil, a key input for fertilizer production.
• Impact on India: As noted in the Lok Sabha, India heavily relies on fertilizer imports from countries like China, Russia, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Iran, and Egypt. The ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and tensions in West Asia pose risks to these imports, potentially leading to shortages and higher prices.

Strategic Responses for India

• Enhancing Domestic Production: Increasing the production capacity of domestic fertilizer plants can reduce India’s dependence on imports. Recent initiatives have added significant urea production capacity.
• Alternative Farming Practices: Experts suggest shifting towards natural farming methods and using innovative products like nano urea to decrease dependency on traditional, import-heavy fertilizers.
• Investment in Fertilizer Sector: The Standing Committee of Parliament advocates for policies that stimulate investments across public, cooperative, and private sectors in fertilizer production.

Investment and Policy Shifts

• New Investment Policy: Introduced in 2012, this policy has facilitated the establishment of new urea plants and the revival of old units, thereby bolstering domestic production capabilities.
• Future Outlook: The government’s continued focus on enhancing local manufacturing infrastructure and adopting sustainable agricultural practices is crucial for securing India’s fertilizer needs amid global uncertainties.

-Source: The Hindu

Centre issued the Guidelines for Import of Live Seaweeds into India

Context:

Recently, the Centre issued the ‘Guidelines for Import of Live Seaweeds into India’ to support the import of high-quality seed materials or germplasm, aimed at enhancing livelihood opportunities for coastal communities. 

Relevance:

GS III: Environment and Ecology

Dimensions of the Article:

1. Indian Seaweed Importation Guidelines
2. Seaweeds
3. Utilization and Benefits

Indian Seaweed Importation Guidelines

Regulatory Framework for Live Seaweed Import to India

• This establishes an integrated framework of regulation over all steps, from pre-importation quarantine and risk assessment through post-import monitoring. It ensures that pests and diseases are not allowed into the country, therefore providing some form of protection from biosecurity risks.

Challenges in the Seaweed Industry:

• Quality seaweed seeds are available in limited quantities for most species, especially Kappaphycus, which is grown extensively in India. The regulations target the quality and supply issues and seek to stabilize the seed supply chain.

Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY):

• India aims to nearly double its seaweed production under the PMMSY; it is targeting over 1.12 million tonnes in 2025. This encompasses important investments, including a Multipurpose Seaweed Park in Tamil Nadu that will improve local seaweed farming infrastructure.

Promotion of Sustainable Seaweed Farming

• Supports sustainable and economically viable practice in seaweed cultivation. It helps introduce new strains of seaweed to diversify and upgrade production capabilities by focusing on cultivating various types of algae such as red, brown, and green algae.

Seaweeds

• Seaweeds refer to a diverse group of marine plants and algae found in oceans, rivers, lakes, and other aquatic environments.
• These organisms come in various colors including red, green, brown, and black, ranging from tiny forms to expansive underwater forests.

Anchorage and Growth

• Seaweeds attach to substrates using root-like structures called “holdfasts,” which solely serve for anchorage without nutrient absorption, unlike terrestrial plant roots.
• Typically, seaweeds exhibit distinct zonation patterns, thriving in shallow waters up to 50 meters (approximately 165 feet) deep.

Utilization and Benefits

• Culinary and Commercial Use: Many seaweed types are edible and hold significant commercial value.
• Agricultural Application: Often utilized as fertilizers or for their polysaccharide content.
• Health Benefits:
  • Antioxidant Properties: Seaweeds are rich in antioxidants that shield the body from oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
  • Fat Metabolism: Studies indicate that certain compounds in seaweeds boost the production of proteins that effectively metabolize fat.
  • Diabetes Management: Consuming seaweed may regulate blood sugar levels, aiding in diabetes management.
  • Anti-inflammatory and Antimicrobial: Contains compounds that offer anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits.
• Industrial Uses:
  • Manufacturing Additives: Used as binding agents or emulsifiers in products like toothpaste and fruit jellies.
  • Cosmetic Applications: Act as softening agents in various organic skincare and cosmetic products.

-Source: The Hindu

Simhachalam Temple

Context:

During recent conservation efforts, epigraphists from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) uncovered a Telugu inscription on the wall above the statue of Lord Hanuman at the 13th-century Simhachalam temple.

Relevance:

GS I: History

Dimensions of the Article:

1. Historical Background
2. Architectural Importance

Historical Background

• Origins and Cultural Influence: The temple, also known as Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, was originally established in the 11th century by the Gajapati rulers of Odisha.
• It is dedicated to the incarnation (avatar) of Vishnu known as Narasimha
  (the man-lion).
• Contributions and Renovations:
  • It was constructed in the 11th century by the Gajapati rulers of Odisha.
  • Kulottunga Chola I from Tamil Nadu made significant endowments around 1087.
  • The temple saw major renovations from the Vengi Chalukyas of Andhra Pradesh during the same period.
  • Further enhancements were made by Narasimha I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty in the early 13th century.
  • Notably, Krishna Deva Raya of the Vijayanagara Empire visited and contributed to the temple in 1516.

Architectural Importance

• Architectural Design: It is of a design combining elements of Kalinga and Dravidian architectural styles, thus making it a monument of a great cultural heritage.

Structural Details:

• The central sanctum is renowned for its elaborate carvings and the dynamic depiction of Narasimha, blending human and lion forms.
• An important structure is the stone chariot, beautifully carved denoting celestial transportation.
• The marriage hall, or Kalyana Mandapa, displays 16 intricately carved pillars that feature various Vishnu incarnations.
• The exterior walls show the temple having bas-reliefs of a royal figure; it is said to depict King Narasimha in various ceremonial poses.

-Source: The Hindu

Greenhouse Gas Bulletin

Context:

According to a new report by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), greenhouse gas levels surged to a new record in 2023, rising by more than 10% in just two decades.

Relevance:

GS III: Environment and Ecology

Dimensions of the Article:

1. Greenhouse Gas Bulletin
2. Highlights from the Latest Report

Greenhouse Gas Bulletin

Publication and Purpose:

• The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has published the Greenhouse Gas Bulletin annually since 2004. This report is essential for tracking changes in the concentrations of key greenhouse gases (GHGs) such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) globally.
• It is designed to provide scientific data for policy-makers, particularly in preparation for the UN Climate Change Conferences (COP).

Key Insights and Data:

• The Bulletin reports on the globally averaged surface concentrations of these gases, offering comparisons with previous years and pre-industrial levels.
• It also examines the role these gases play in radiative forcing, a measure of their impact on Earth’s energy balance and, consequently, on climate.

Highlights from the Latest Report

Concentration Levels in 2023:

• Carbon dioxide levels reached 420 parts per million (ppm), methane levels at 1934 parts per billion (ppb), and nitrous oxide at 336.9 ppb.
• These levels underline significant ongoing increases in greenhouse gases due to human activities such as fossil fuel combustion and cement production.

Impacts and Contributions:

• CO2 remains the dominant greenhouse gas, responsible for approximately 64% of the anthropogenic warming effect.
• The variability in CO2 levels is influenced annually by phenomena such as the El Nino–Southern Oscillation, which affects global carbon cycles and atmospheric concentrations.
• Methane, which is particularly effective at trapping heat in the atmosphere, contributes about 16% to the warming impact of GHGs but stays in the atmosphere for a shorter duration compared to CO2.
• Nitrous oxide, besides contributing to warming, also plays a role in ozone depletion, accounting for about 6% of the warming impact from GHGs.

Long-term Trends and Effects:

• Since 1990, there has been a 51.5% increase in radiative forcing by long-lived greenhouse gases, with CO2 accounting for about 81% of this increase, highlighting the significant role of human activities in climate change.

-Source: The Hindu