GLACIAL LAKES
1. Context
Switzerland’s glaciers suffered their second-worst melt rate this year after record 2022 losses, shrinking their overall volume by 10% in the last two years, according to monitoring body GLAMOS.
2. About a glacier
- A glacier is a large mass of perennial ice that originates on land and moves downslope under the influence of its own weight and gravity.
- Glaciers are formed when snow accumulates over many years and is compressed by its own weight, transforming it into ice.
- Glaciers can be found on all continents except Australia, and they cover about 10% of the Earth's land surface.
2.1. Types of glaciers
- These are the most common type of glacier, and they are found in mountain ranges around the world. Alpine glaciers typically flow down valleys and can be several kilometres long.
- Ice sheets are the largest type of glacier, and they cover entire continents. The Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets are the only two ice sheets that remain on Earth today.
- Ice caps are smaller than ice sheets, but they are still very large. Ice caps are typically found on islands and in the Arctic and Antarctic regions.
3. About a glacial
- A glacial is an adjective that describes anything related to glaciers.
- It can be used to describe the physical features of glaciers, the processes that create and shape glaciers, and the impact of glaciers on the environment.
- For example, glacial ice is the dense, compacted ice that makes up glaciers.
- Glacial landforms are features created by glaciers, such as moraines, eskers, and drumlins. Glacial erosion is the process by which glaciers wear away rock and sediment.
- Glacial deposition is the process by which glaciers deposit rock and sediment.
- The term glacial can also be used to describe the period during which glaciers were widespread on Earth.
- The last glacial period, known as the Pleistocene epoch, ended about 11,700 years ago.
| No, glacial and glaciers are not the same. Glacial is an adjective that describes anything related to glaciers, while glacier is a noun that refers to a large mass of perennial ice that originates on land and moves downslope under the influence of its own weight and gravity. |
4. About a glacial tongue
- A glacial tongue is a narrow extension of a glacier that projects into a body of water, such as a lake or ocean.
- Glacial tongues are formed when glaciers flow down valleys and out onto landforms that are below sea level.
- The weight of the glacier causes the ice to float on the water, and the glacier continues to flow forward, forming a tongue of ice.
- Some of the most famous glacial tongues include The Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina, The Jakobshavn Glacier in Greenland and The Thwaites Glacier in Antarctica.
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Image Source: Britannica
5. Glaciers in India
India is home to a large number of glaciers, with over 15,000 glaciers found in the Himalayan region. The majority of glaciers in India are located in the states of Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Jammu and Kashmir.
Some of the most famous glaciers in India include
- The Gangotri Glacier is the source of the Ganges River, one of the most sacred rivers in Hinduism. The glacier is located in the state of Uttarakhand and is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus.
- The Siachen Glacier is the second longest glacier in the world outside of the polar regions. The glacier is located in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir and is a disputed territory between India and Pakistan.
- The Bara Shigri Glacier is the longest glacier in Himachal Pradesh. The glacier is located in the Kullu Valley and is a popular trekking destination.
- The Pindari Glacier is located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. The glacier is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular trekking destination.
- The Zemu Glacier is located in the state of Sikkim, and it is one of the most challenging glaciers to trek to. The Zemu Glacier is known for its stunning scenery and its unique wildlife.
- The Milam Glacier is the longest glacier in Uttarakhand. It is located in the Kumaon Himalayas, in the Pithoragarh district.
6. "Strategic” role of glaciers-what does it mean?
The "strategic" role of glaciers refers to their importance to national security, economic development, and environmental sustainability.
National security: Glaciers play a role in national security by providing water for military bases and by helping to regulate the climate. For example, the Siachen Glacier in India is strategically important because it controls access to several high-altitude mountain passes.
Economic development: Glaciers are important for economic development by providing water for irrigation, hydropower generation, and tourism. For example, the glaciers in the Himalayas provide water for millions of people in India and Pakistan.
Environmental sustainability: Glaciers play an important role in environmental sustainability by regulating the water cycle, supporting biodiversity, and helping to mitigate climate change. For example, the glaciers in the Himalayas help to regulate the flow of water into the Ganges River, which is a lifeline for millions of people.
7. Which is largest glacier in India?
- The largest glacier in India is the Siachen Glacier. It is situated in the Karakoram Himalayas in the northern part of the Indian-administered region of Jammu and Kashmir, close to the borders with Pakistan and China.
- Due to its high altitude and remote location, it is often referred to as the "highest battlefield on Earth" because of military conflicts between India and Pakistan in the region.
- The Siachen Glacier is the second-longest glacier outside of the polar regions, with a length of 76 kilometres and 11 kilometres wide, and covers an area of about 780 square kilometres.
- The glacier is also the source of the Nubra River, which flows into the Shyok River, a tributary of the Indus River.
- The Siachen Glacier is a vital source of water for millions of people in India and Pakistan.
- The glacier also plays an important role in regulating the climate and supporting biodiversity. However, the Siachen Glacier is under threat from climate change.
- As the Earth's temperature rises, the glacier is melting at an alarming rate. This is causing the glacier to shrink and retreat and is also contributing to sea level rise.
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Image Source: Hindustan Times
8. The Way Forward
Glaciers are vital to our planet and our way of life. It is important to take action to protect glaciers from climate change and other threats. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions, investing in renewable energy, protecting glacier ecosystems, and monitoring glaciers, we can help to ensure that these precious resources are preserved for future generations.
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For Prelims: Glacier, glacial, Antarctica, Himalayas, Greenland, Siachen Glacier, Gangotri Glacier, Bara Shigri Glacier, Pindari Glacier, Zemu Glacier, Milam Glacier, Thwaites Glacier, Perito Moreno Glacier, Jakobshavn Glacier,
For Mains:
1. Discuss the factors contributing to the accelerated melt of glaciers worldwide and its implications for global climate systems. Explain how to address this issue effectively. (250 Words)
2. Explain the strategic importance of glaciers in India. What are the challenges and opportunities associated with glacier-dependent regions in India? (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions 1. Consider the following pairs: (UPSC CSE 2019) Glacier River 1. Bandarpunch Yamuna 2. Bara Shigri Chenab 3. Milam Mandakini 4. Siachen Nubra 5. Zemu Manas Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched? A. 1, 2 and 4 B. 1, 3 and 4 C. 2 and 5 D. 3 and 5 Answer: A 2. The formation of ozone hole in the Antarctic region has been a cause of concern. What would be the reason for the formation of this hole? (UPSC CSE 2011) A. Presence of prominent tropospheric turbulence; and inflow of chlorofluorocarbon.
B. Presence of prominent polar front and stratospheric clouds; and inflow of chlorofluorocarbons
C. Absence of polar front and stratospheric clouds; and inflow of methane and chlorofluorocarbons
D. Increased temperature at polar region due to global warming
Answer: B 3. The Arctic region and the Antarctica continent are situated near (68th BPSC Prelims 2023) A. the Amazon Basin
B. the Sahara Desert
C. the North and south Poles
D. More than one of the above
E. None of the above
Answer: C 4. Where is Greenland located? (UPSSSC Forest Guard 2018) A. South pacific
B. Indian ocean
C. Caribbean sea
D. North atlantic
Answer: D 5. Greenland is a part of which one of the following countries? (BPSC 66th Combined Competitive Exam) A. Denmark
B. Finland
C. Canada
D. United Kingdom
E. None of the above/More than one of the above
Answer: A 6. Siachen Glacier is situated to the (UPSC CSE 2020) A. East of Aksai Chin
B. East of Leh
C. North of Gilgit
D. North of Nubra Valley
Answer: D |
Source: indianexpress
AGAMA TRADITIONS
1. Context
The Supreme Court ordered status quo on the appointment of archakas (priests) in Agamic temples in Tamil Nadu. The Srirangam Koil Miras Kainkaryaparagal Matrum Athanai Sarntha Koilgalin Miraskain-karyaparargalin Nalasangam, an association of archakas, had challenged reforms introduced by the DMK government, which are seen as attempting to change the hereditary system of appointing archakas in Agama temples.
2. What are the Agama traditions?
Agama traditions refer to a set of ancient scriptures and religious texts in Hinduism that provide guidelines and rituals for temple construction, deity worship, and religious practices. These traditions are an integral part of Hindu religious and spiritual life and have had a significant influence on temple architecture, iconography, and rituals.
- Agama texts are believed to have originated thousands of years ago and are considered sacred by many sects within Hinduism. They are seen as authoritative guides for the proper construction and consecration of temples, as well as for the worship of deities.
- Agamas prescribe detailed guidelines for the design, layout, and construction of temples. They specify architectural features, proportions, and measurements to ensure the sanctity and auspiciousness of the temple.
- Agama traditions outline rituals and procedures for the worship of deities in temples. These rituals include offerings, daily worship schedules, and elaborate ceremonies performed by trained priests (archakas).
- Agamas provide instructions on the creation of sacred images (murtis) and their placement within temples. They dictate the specific attributes, forms, and symbols associated with various deities.
- Agamas contain a rich repository of mantras (sacred chants) and prayers used during temple rituals. These mantras are considered potent and essential for invoking the divine presence.
- Agamas also include information on the use of yantras (sacred geometric diagrams) and mandalas (ritualistic diagrams) for meditation and worship.
- Agama traditions have a significant influence on both Shaivism (worship of Lord Shiva) and Vaishnavism (worship of Lord Vishnu) but are also followed in other sects and traditions within Hinduism.
- There are numerous Agama texts, and they are often classified into categories based on the deities they focus on. For example, the Shaiva Agamas are specific to Lord Shiva, while the Shakta Agamas pertain to the worship of the Divine Mother, Shakti.
- The preservation and transmission of Agama traditions have been primarily oral, with teachers passing down the knowledge and practices to their disciples. However, efforts have been made to document these traditions in written form to ensure their continuity.
- Agama traditions continue to play a vital role in the functioning of Hindu temples across India and in other parts of the world. They are an essential part of religious life for millions of Hindus.
3. Chronology of the issue
- The DMK government in Tamil Nadu, led by Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, amended the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowment (HR & CE) Act in 1971 to abolish the hereditary appointment of priests. This allowed individuals from all castes to become priests.
- In 2006, the Tamil Nadu government declared that all qualified persons were eligible to be priests, irrespective of their caste or background. However, this declaration was struck down by the Supreme Court in 2015. The Court emphasized adherence to Agama Sastras while ensuring that constitutional rights were not violated.
- The Madras High Court ruled in favor of a woman priest from Usilampatti, Madurai, who was facing opposition from male priests regarding her right to conduct puja at the Arulmigu Durgai Amman temple. The court rejected the application of Agama Sastras and Manusmriti norms, emphasizing the need to eliminate gender bias from temples to uphold constitutional mandates against discrimination and practices derogatory to women.
- In this case, the Supreme Court upheld the appointment of non-believers to the temple trust board, emphasizing the principle of equality and non-discrimination in temple administration.
- The Supreme Court ruled in this case that no pre-existing custom could exclude non-Brahmins from performing puja in temples if they were trained and qualified. This decision reinforced the idea that caste and family succession should not dictate eligibility for temple rituals and the appointment of priests (archakas).
These legal actions and judgments underscore the government and judiciary's commitment to ensuring equality, non-discrimination, and inclusivity in temple administration and priest appointments, irrespective of caste, gender, or belief.
4. Challenges to Constitutional Provisions in Temple Administration
- Despite constitutional provisions and the abolition of hereditary priest appointments in Tamil Nadu, the Agama tradition continues to influence temple administrations.
- In Kerala, Hindutva groups question why only Hindu temples are under government control, not churches or mosques, sparking debates on religious equity.
- Tamil Nadu witnessed a campaign for the "reclamation" of temples before the 2021 Assembly elections, challenging government control.
5. Historical Context
- During the colonial period, British officials' involvement in Hindu rituals, like the Chittoor district collector's role at Tirupati temple, raised concerns among Christian establishments. This led to the transfer of temple control to local communities.
- In 1951, the HR & CE Act restricted the government's role to temple administration and finance.
6. Friction between Modernity and Tradition
- Debates persist over hereditary priest rights, reflecting friction between modernity and tradition.
- The Supreme Court's decision to allow women into the Sabarimala temple also highlights this tension.
7. The Uniqueness of Hinduism and Temple Worship
- Hinduism's diversity, contradictions, and numerous deities make it unique, and rules applied to other faiths may not necessarily apply to Hinduism.
- Many priests serve without financial gain, emphasizing the enduring importance of customs beyond monetary considerations.
- Hindu temples are seen as epicenters of "soul energy" with unique deities and purposes, unlike Semitic traditions where the venue or idol is secondary.
- Concepts of worship centers vary significantly within Hinduism.
- Logic and reasoning may not apply to faith without empathy, as exemplified by varying practices related to menstruation in different temples.
These complexities highlight the intricate relationship between tradition, faith, and modernity in the context of Hindu temple administration and customs.
Mains Practice Questions1. Discuss the Constitutional Provisions and historical context related to the administration of Hindu temples in India. What challenges and debates have arisen concerning government control and hereditary priest appointments in temples? (250 Words). 2. Examine the role of Agama traditions in the persistence of traditional practices and rituals in Hindu temples. How have these traditions influenced temple administration and worship? (250 Words). |
Source: indianexpress
SYCAMORE TREE
1. Context
A 300-year-old sycamore tree, renowned for its beauty and unique location, was deliberately felled by a teenage boy. The incident has sparked an investigation, and the boy was arrested recently. The motive behind this destructive act remains unclear.
2. About Sycamore Trees
- Sycamore trees can grow to impressive heights, reaching up to 35 meters as they mature.
- They are a common sight in the UK, characterized by leaves similar to those of maple trees. These trees can live for as long as 400 years.
- While native to central, eastern, and southern Europe, sycamore trees are believed to have been introduced to the UK by the Romans or during the Tudor era around the 1500s.
- Their widespread planting led to their prevalence in the UK by the mid-1800s.
Image Source: Chronicle live
3. Significance of the Hadrian Wall Gaps
- The sycamore tree stood in a picturesque dip nestled between two hills, adjacent to the Hadrian Wall.
- The Hadrian Wall is a historic stone structure located near the border between England and Scotland, in Northumberland, northern England.
- According to the National Trust, responsible for preserving important historical and natural sites, these "gaps" are channels naturally carved out by meltwater that once flowed beneath ice sheets thousands of years ago. An employee of the National Trust named the spot during a map review.
4. Impact on Native Species
- The sycamore tree's fertility has enabled it to spread rapidly across the UK, often colonizing woodlands to the detriment of native species, as noted by the Trust.
- Due to its robust and hardwood, sycamore is also used for carving and crafting decoratively carved wooden spoons, known as "love spoons," which are given as romantic gestures, particularly in Wales.
5. UNESCO World Heritage Site
- The Hadrian Wall is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the 'Frontiers of the Roman Empire,' encompassing regions in the UK and Germany.
- The Roman Empire, one of history's greatest empires, utilized this stone frontier, with forts strategically positioned along it.
- The Hadrian Wall, stretching over 118 kilometres, was constructed under the orders of Emperor Hadrian circa AD 122, marking the northernmost boundary of the Roman province of Britannia.
- UNESCO acknowledges it as a remarkable example of military organization, defensive techniques, and geopolitical strategies of ancient Rome.
6. Conclusion
The feeling of the Hadrian Wall's iconic sycamore tree not only represents a profound loss for the local community but also highlights the importance of preserving historical and natural treasures. As the investigation unfolds, the motive behind this act of vandalism remains a subject of intense scrutiny, and the quest for justice continues.
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For Prelims: Sycamore tree Hadrian Wall, World Heritage Site, Roman province of Britannia, Emperor Hadrian circa, National Trust, Tudor era
For Mains:
1. Discuss the importance of educating the public about the value of heritage sites and the need to conserve them for future generations. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, “MahabodhiVihar” is situated in which Indian state? (SSC MTS 2017)
A. Madhya Pradesh B. Himachal Pradesh C. Bihar D. Maharashtra
Answer: C
2. Consider the following statements: (MPSC 2019)
a. As of July 2018, a total of 1092 World Heritage sites exist across 167 countries.
b. Italy, with 54 World Heritage sites has the most of any country (up to July 2018).
c. India has 39 World Heritage sites (up to July 2018).
d. A collection of Victorian, Gothic, and Art Deco buildings of Mumbai are declared as World Heritage sites in 2018.
Which of the above statements are correct?
A. a, b and d B. b, c and d C. a, b and c D. All of the above
Answer: A
3. National Trust Act (NTA) was formulated in the year (Kerala SET 2018)
A. 1992 B. 1995 C. 1999 D. 2002
Answer: A
4. Match the following: (MPSC 2019)
(Government Measures for
Persons with Disabilities (PWD) (Objectives)
a) The National Trust i) Regulating training policies and programmes for rehabilitation and special education
b) The Rehabilitation Council ii) To deal with multi-dimensional problems of the disabled population
c) The National Handicapped
Finance and Development
Corporation (NHFDC) iii) Enable and empower persons with disabilities
d) The Apex-level National
Institutes iv) Extends credit facilities to persons with disabilities for their economic development
A. a - (iv), b - (i), c - (iii), d - (ii)
B. a - (iii), b - (iv), c - (ii), d - (i)
C. a - (iii), b - (i), c - (iv), d - (ii)
D. a - (i), b - (ii), c - (iv), d - (iii)
Answer: C
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Source: The Indian Express
BHAGAT SINGH
1. Context
Bhagat Singh seemed to have been fascinated by the imagination of Vasudhaiva kutumbakam, dreaming of the world as one family, bound by love and mutual respect. In an essay, ‘Vishwa Prem’, in the Hindi weekly Matwala in November 1924, he reflected upon the social and political challenges in the realization of the dream. The theme of India’s G20 presidency - vasudhaiva kutumbakam - makes it relevant to look into Bhagat Singh’s thoughts on the subject on his birth anniversary, which was on Thursday.
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2. Bhagat Singh and Hindustan Socialist Republican Association
Bhagat Singh was a prominent revolutionary and a key figure in the Indian independence movement against British colonial rule during the early 20th century. He is often remembered for his fierce patriotism and commitment to the cause of Indian independence. The Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) was the revolutionary organization to which Bhagat Singh belonged.
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Here are some key points about Bhagat Singh and the HSRA:
- Early Life: Bhagat Singh was born on September 28, 1907, in a small village in Punjab, which was then part of British India. He came from a patriotic family, and the injustices he witnessed during his formative years, such as the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919, deeply influenced his political consciousness.
- Involvement in the Independence Movement: Bhagat Singh became actively involved in the struggle for India's independence from a young age. He joined the Non-Cooperation Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi but later became disenchanted with its non-violent approach and shifted towards more radical methods.
- Formation of HSRA: In 1928, Bhagat Singh and his associates, such as Chandrashekhar Azad and Sukhdev Thapar, founded the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA). The HSRA advocated for complete independence from British rule and was committed to using revolutionary means to achieve this goal.
- Protest against Simon Commission: Bhagat Singh and his associates protested against the Simon Commission, which was perceived as an unjust attempt by the British to introduce constitutional reforms without Indian representation. During one such protest in 1928, Lala Lajpat Rai was injured in a police baton charge and later died, leading Bhagat Singh and his associates to plot revenge.
- Assembly Bombing: On April 8, 1929, Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt threw non-lethal smoke bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi to protest repressive laws. They did not intend to harm anyone but aimed to draw attention to their cause.
- Arrest and Trial: Bhagat Singh and his associates were arrested following the assembly bombing. During their trial, they used the court as a platform to articulate their revolutionary ideals and demand better treatment for political prisoners. Bhagat Singh and his associates were ultimately sentenced to death for their involvement in the killing of British police officer J.P. Saunders.
- Martyrdom: On March 23, 1931, Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev were executed by hanging in Lahore Central Jail. Their martyrdom galvanized the independence movement and left a lasting legacy of sacrifice for future generations of Indians.
Bhagat Singh and the HSRA remain iconic figures in India's struggle for independence, representing the spirit of fearless resistance against colonial oppression. They continue to inspire generations of Indians in their pursuit of justice and freedom.
3. Bhagat Singh and Naujawan Bharat Sabha
- The Naujawan Bharat Sabha was a revolutionary youth organization founded in 1926 in Lahore, British India. It was established with the aim of mobilizing young Indians to actively participate in the struggle for India's independence.
- Bhagat Singh became a prominent member and leader within the Naujawan Bharat Sabha. His participation in this organization allowed him to collaborate with like-minded revolutionaries who were dedicated to the cause of liberating India from British rule.
- The Naujawan Bharat Sabha advocated for complete independence from British colonial rule and sought to raise awareness about political issues among young Indians. It organized meetings, protests, and gatherings to promote the nationalist cause and expose the injustices of British rule.
- The Naujawan Bharat Sabha collaborated with other revolutionary organizations, including the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA), of which Bhagat Singh was also a member. These collaborations often involved planning and executing acts of resistance against the British.
- The organization played a crucial role in radicalizing and politicizing young Indians, including Bhagat Singh himself. It provided a platform for young revolutionaries to discuss and formulate strategies for challenging British authority.
- Members of the Naujawan Bharat Sabha actively participated in various protests and movements during the late 1920s and early 1930s. They were involved in campaigns against repressive laws and took part in activities aimed at undermining British colonial control.
- The Naujawan Bharat Sabha, along with other revolutionary organizations, left a lasting legacy in the history of India's struggle for independence. Their fearless dedication to the cause and willingness to make sacrifices, as exemplified by Bhagat Singh, continues to inspire generations of Indians.
4. Bhagat Singh-His Ideology
His ideology was deeply rooted in his commitment to achieving India's independence and social justice.
- Bhagat Singh was a staunch advocate of complete independence for India from British colonial rule. He believed that India should be a sovereign nation free from foreign domination. His slogan "Inquilab Zindabad" (Long Live the Revolution) became synonymous with his call for independence.
- Bhagat Singh was influenced by socialist and Marxist ideologies. He saw the struggle for independence as intertwined with the broader struggle against imperialism and capitalism. He believed that political freedom should be accompanied by economic and social justice for the masses.
- Bhagat Singh initially participated in non-violent protests led by Mahatma Gandhi during the Non-Cooperation Movement. However, he later became disillusioned with non-violence as a sole strategy and shifted toward more radical and militant means to achieve independence.
- Bhagat Singh and his associates engaged in acts of resistance against the British colonial authorities to draw attention to their cause. The Central Legislative Assembly bombing in 1929 and the killing of British police officer J.P. Saunders were part of their efforts to awaken the masses and challenge British rule.
- Bhagat Singh believed in the power of martyrdom and was willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for his convictions. He famously declared, "They may kill me, but they cannot kill my ideas." His courage in the face of the death penalty inspired generations of Indians.
- Bhagat Singh's vision for India was inclusive and secular. He envisioned a nation where people of all religions and backgrounds could coexist peacefully and have equal rights and opportunities.
- Bhagat Singh believed that the youth had a vital role to play in the struggle for independence. He saw them as the vanguard of change and believed that their energy and passion could bring about a revolution.
- Bhagat Singh was not just a militant; he was also an avid reader and thinker. He believed in the power of ideas and intellectual engagement to bring about change. He wrote extensively on his vision for a free and just India.
- Bhagat Singh's ideology and sacrifice continue to inspire people in India and around the world who are committed to the principles of freedom, justice, and independence.
- Bhagat Singh's ideology was characterized by his unwavering commitment to the cause of India's independence and his belief in the need for social and economic justice alongside political freedom. His legacy as a fearless revolutionary and a champion of these principles endures to this day.
Previous year Question1. Which of the following statements about Bhagat Singh is/are NOT true? (UPSC CAPF 2019).
1. Bhagat Singh was influenced by socialist ideas
2. He was a member of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association
3. Bhagat Singh threw a bomb in the Central Legislative Assembly in 1929 with the objective to kill as many people as possible
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 and 3
B. 2 and 3
C. 2 only
D. 3 only
Answer: D
Mains Practice Question
1. Bhagat Singh was considered as one of the most influential revolutionary of Modern India. Throw light on the significance of the thoughts of Bhagat Singh in the present times. (250 Words)
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Source: indianexpress
ASTRA MISSILE
1. Context
LIGHT COMBAT Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Wednesday successfully fired the ASTRA indigenous Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missile off the coast of Goa, a day after IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari reviewed the status of the LCA programme in Air Headquarters
2. ASTRA Missile
- ASTRA is a state-of-the-art BVR air-to-air missile to engage and destroy highly manoeuvring supersonic aerial targets.
- It is designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), Research Centre Imarat (RCI) and other laboratories of DRDO
- The test launch was monitored by the Test Director and scientists of Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) along with officials from Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC) and Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance (DG-AQA), the statement said, adding that the aircraft was also monitored by a Chase Tejas twin-seater aircraft
3. History
- The development of the ASTRA missile program began in the late 1990s as part of India's efforts to enhance its air defense capabilities. The aim was to develop a beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile to be used by the Indian Air Force
- The development of the ASTRA missile continued through the 2000s, with an emphasis on research, design, and technology development. The missile was designed to be capable of engaging a variety of aerial threats, including enemy aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)
- In 2014, the Indian Air Force conducted a successful test-firing of the ASTRA missile as part of user trials.
- This marked a significant milestone in the missile's development, indicating its readiness for operational use
- The ASTRA missile officially entered service with the Indian Air Force in the 2020s.
- It is designed to be compatible with various fighter aircraft in the Indian Air Force's inventory, including the Su-30MKI, MiG-29, and Tejas
4.ASTRA missiles
The ASTRA missile can engage targets at BVR distances, which means it can hit enemy aircraft beyond the range of visual identification.
There are different variants of the ASTRA missile, including:
ASTRA Mk-I:
- This is the first operational variant of the ASTRA missile, which is capable of engaging targets at short and beyond-visual-range distances.
- It is designed for use with various aircraft in the IAF's fleet.ASTRA Mk-I is equipped with an active radar homing seeker, allowing it to autonomously track and lock onto its target.
- ASTRA Mk-I is designed for multi-role use, capable of engaging a wide range of aerial threats, including enemy aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
ASTRA Mk-II:
- The Mk-II version of the ASTRA missile is an upgraded variant that offers extended range and improved performance.
- It is designed to provide extended range and improved overall performance compared to the Mk-I variant
- It is expected to be compatible with the same range of aircraft in the IAF's fleet as the Mk-I variant.
Source: indianexpress
