Research Findings on Coral Reefs
Context: Ocean temperatures in the Great Barrier Reef hit their highest level in 400 years over the past decade. The reef suffered mass coral bleaching events between 2016 and 2024. Relevance: Environment and Ecology (Conservation of Environment and Ecology, Environmental Pollution and Degradation) Dimensions of the Article: Research Findings on Coral Reefs: Great Barrier Reef About Coral Reefs Risks […]
Why Himalayan Towns Need a Different Kind of Development
Context: The Indian Himalayan Range (IHR), which includes 11 states and two Union Territories, experienced an urban growth rate exceeding 40% from 2011 to 2021. Towns have expanded, and new urban settlements are developing. However, urbanization in Himalayan towns requires a unique approach. Relevance: GS3- Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment Mains Question: […]
Powering India’s Future
Context: In her seventh consecutive budget speech, the Finance Minister outlined measures that underscore India’s dedication to transitioning to clean energy. These measures include developing policies for pumped hydro storage and creating energy transition pathways to support nuclear energy and improve energy efficiency. However, the recent record-breaking summer heatwaves, which increased power demand, highlight the challenges posed […]
Balancing Competition and Sustainability for India
Context: Markets are at the heart of the economy, having evolved from the barter system to today’s digital platforms. The dynamics of supply and demand largely dictate pricing and consumer preferences. Climate change disrupts the supply side, causing an imbalance between supply and demand, which affects consumer demand and the overall economy. Relevance: GS3- Inclusive […]
Tiger Conservation Efficacy in Madhya Pradesh
Context: A Special Investigation Team (SIT) report has brought to light serious issues in the wildlife protection efforts in Madhya Pradesh, particularly after documenting the deaths of 43 tigers at Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve and Shahdol Forest Circle between 2021 and 2023. The report reveals critical lapses in the investigation processes, a lack of sufficient evidence […]
About Indian Siris Tree
Context: A pall of gloom descended on Kumaradevam gram panchayat, located in the East Godavari district, after the death of the century-old Indian siris tree. Relevance: GS III: Environment and Ecology Indian Siris Tree (Albizia lebbeck) Key Characteristics Ecological Contributions -Source: The Hindu
The Relevance of Pumped Storage Projects
Context: The Union Budget for 2024-25 promised a new policy to promote pumped storage projects for electricity storage, aiming to smoothly integrate the increasing share of renewable energy, which is inherently variable and intermittent. Relevance: GS3- Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Infrastructure- Energy Mains Question: Discuss the principle of operation of pumped storage projects highlighting their significance. Where […]
About Ideas4LiFE Portal
Context: Recently, the Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change launched Ideas4LiFE at IIT Delhi. Relevance: GS III: Environment and Ecology Dimensions of the Article: Ideas4LiFE Portal About Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) Aim of LiFE: Pro-Planet People: Vision and Mission of LiFE: Vision of LIFE: The vision of ‘LIFE’ is to live a […]
India’s Success in CITES Review of Agarwood
Context: India has successfully prevented the inclusion of Aquilaria malaccensis (agarwood) in the Review of Significant Trade (RST) of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The CITES also notified a new export quota of highly valuable and aromatic resinous wood and oil of agarwood from India starting […]
Economic Survey Highlights Flaws in Global Climate Action Regime
Context: The Economic Survey has pointed to flaws and inequities in the global climate action regime and suggested alternative pathways that incorporate lifestyle and behavioural changes. It also argued that adaptation should get at least as much importance as mitigation. Relevance: GS III: Environment and Ecology Dimensions of the Article: Difference Between Climate Change Mitigation […]