The Marapi volcano, located in West Sumatra, Indonesia, is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire. The Ring of Fire is a horseshoe-shaped area in the Pacific Ocean basin where a large number of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur. It's characterized by active tectonic plate boundaries, including subduction zones, where one tectonic plate is forced beneath another.

Marapi is one of Indonesia's most active volcanoes and stands about 2,891 meters (9,485 feet) tall. It's situated near the city of Bukittinggi and has a history of frequent eruptions. While some of its eruptions have been relatively small and non-explosive, it has occasionally produced more significant eruptions with ash plumes and pyroclastic flows.

The region surrounding Marapi and much of Indonesia, in general, is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire due to the complex tectonic activity in the area. The Indo-Australian Plate is subducting beneath the Eurasian Plate, leading to seismic and volcanic activity along the Sumatran Fault and other associated fault lines.

The Pacific Ring of Fire is known for its high seismic and volcanic activity, housing a majority of the world's active volcanoes and experiencing a large number of earthquakes. This area's geological dynamics make it prone to geological hazards, but it also provides valuable insights into plate tectonics and volcanic activity for scientific research

3. Volcanoes and Volcanic Landforms

Volcanoes are natural features on Earth's surface that form when magma (molten rock beneath the Earth's crust) erupts through openings or vents. The erupted materials, including lava, ash, gases, and pyroclastic flows, accumulate around the vent, building up and forming various volcanic landforms. Here are some key volcanic landforms:

Shield Volcanoes: These are broad, gently sloping volcanoes characterized by their low viscosity lava, which flows easily. They're built up by numerous eruptions of thin, runny lava. Examples include Mauna Loa in Hawaii and the Galápagos Islands' volcanoes.

Stratovolcanoes (Composite Volcanoes): These are steep-sided, conical volcanoes built by multiple layers of lava, ash, and volcanic rocks. They are often associated with explosive eruptions due to their viscous lava. Famous examples include Mount St. Helens in the United States, Mount Fuji in Japan, and Mount Vesuvius in Italy.

Cinder Cone Volcanoes: These are small, steep-sided volcanoes formed from ejected lava fragments that pile up around the vent. They usually have a bowl-shaped crater at the summit. Paricutin in Mexico is a well-known cinder cone volcano.

Calderas: These are large, basin-shaped depressions formed after massive eruptions, where the volcano's summit collapses into the emptied magma chamber. Crater Lake in Oregon, USA, is a prime example of a caldera.

Lava Plateaus: These are vast flat areas created by successive lava flows that cover large areas of land. The Deccan Plateau in India and the Columbia River Plateau in the United States are examples of lava plateaus.

Volcanic Islands: Many islands around the world, like Hawaii, Japan, and the Philippines, were formed by volcanic activity. These islands were created as volcanoes erupted underwater and gradually built up above sea level.

Volcanic Craters: Formed at the summit of some volcanoes, these bowl-shaped depressions are created either by explosions or the collapse of the volcano's summit following an eruption.

Volcanic landforms vary based on factors like the type of eruption, the composition of the lava, and the frequency of eruptions. They contribute significantly to the Earth's landscape and often provide fertile soils and valuable resources, while also posing risks to nearby populations due to potential eruptions and associated hazards

4. Types of Volcanoes

Volcanoes come in various types, each formed by different eruptive processes and materials. Here are the main types of volcanoes:

Shield Volcanoes: These volcanoes have broad, gentle slopes due to the relatively fluid lava (low viscosity) they produce. Eruptions from shield volcanoes tend to be non-explosive and result in the flowing of lava over large distances. Examples include Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea in Hawaii.

Stratovolcanoes (Composite Volcanoes): Stratovolcanoes are tall, steep-sided cones formed by alternating layers of lava, ash, and volcanic rocks. They often produce explosive eruptions due to the higher viscosity of their lava. Mount St. Helens in the United States and Mount Fuji in Japan are examples of stratovolcanoes.

Cinder Cone Volcanoes: These small, steep-sided volcanoes are formed from the accumulation of pyroclastic material (such as ash, cinders, and volcanic rocks) ejected during eruptions. They usually have a bowl-shaped crater at the summit. Paricutin in Mexico is a famous cinder cone volcano.

Lava Domes: Lava domes are created by the slow extrusion of highly viscous lava. They form rounded mounds often found within the craters of larger volcanoes. Lava domes, such as Mount St. Helens' post-eruption dome, can be highly unstable and prone to collapse.

Complex Volcanoes: These are composite volcanoes that exhibit multiple vents and overlapping cones. They're formed by the accumulation of materials from various eruptions over time. Mount Rainier in the United States is an example of a complex volcano.

Submarine Volcanoes: Found underwater, these volcanoes create seamounts or volcanic islands. They can form chains, like the Hawaiian-Emperor seamount chain, as tectonic plates move over hotspots beneath the Earth's crust.

Supervolcanoes: These are rare but extremely powerful volcanoes capable of producing colossal eruptions. They form immense calderas after catastrophic explosions that empty the magma chamber. Yellowstone Caldera in the United States is an example of a supervolcano

5. Relation among Plate Tectonics, Volcanoes and Earthquake 

Plate tectonics, volcanoes, and earthquakes are interconnected and are all part of the Earth's dynamic processes.

Plate Tectonics: The Earth's lithosphere (the outermost layer) is divided into several large and small plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath them. These plates are in constant motion, driven by forces like mantle convection, and this movement is known as plate tectonics.

Volcanoes: Volcanoes are closely associated with plate boundaries, where tectonic plates interact. There are three primary types of plate boundaries:

• • Divergent Boundaries: At divergent boundaries, plates move away from each other. Magma from the mantle rises to fill the gap, solidifies, and creates new crust. This process forms mid-ocean ridges, where underwater volcanoes and volcanic activity occur.

  • Convergent Boundaries: At convergent boundaries, plates move toward each other. When an oceanic plate collides with a continental plate or another oceanic plate, the denser oceanic plate sinks beneath the lighter plate in a process called subduction. The sinking plate melts as it descends into the mantle, leading to the formation of magma that rises to the surface, resulting in explosive volcanoes. Examples include the Andes and the Cascades.

  • Transform Boundaries: At transform boundaries, plates slide past each other horizontally. While these boundaries are not associated with volcanic activity directly, the stress buildup and release along these boundaries often cause earthquakes.

Thus, the movement and interaction of tectonic plates at plate boundaries create conditions conducive to both volcanic eruptions and seismic activity (earthquakes). The locations and types of volcanoes and earthquakes are influenced by the specific plate boundary and the nature of the plate movement at that boundary. Overall, plate tectonics serve as the underlying mechanism that connects the occurrence of volcanoes and earthquakes on Earth

6. How can volcanic eruptions affect the environment and natural ecosystem?

 

 

For Prelims: Indian and World Geography-Physical, Social, Economic Geography of India and the World For Mains: General Studies I: Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., geographical features and their location-changes in critical geographical features and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes

 

Source: indianexpress

ASPIRATIONAL DISTRICTS PROGRAMME

 

 

 

1. Context

 

In his speech after the BJP swept to power in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called it a victory of the poor, the deprived and the tribals, among others. The acknowledgement is with a reason aspirational districts, some of the most backward in the country, and constituencies reserved for tribals.

 

2. What is the Aspirational District Programme?

The Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP) is a flagship initiative of the Indian government, launched in January 2018, with the ambitious goal of rapidly transforming 112 of India's most underdeveloped districts across 27 states. These districts are deemed "aspirational" because they have the potential to achieve significant progress with focused interventions.

The ADP adopts a holistic approach, focusing on five key areas crucial for development:

• Health & Nutrition: Aiming to improve access to quality healthcare, reduce infant mortality and malnutrition rates, and empower women with better health outcomes.
• Education: Striving to ensure all children are enrolled in schools, enhance learning outcomes, and bridge the literacy gap.
• Agriculture & Water Resources: Promoting sustainable farming practices, boosting agricultural productivity, and ensuring water security for improved livelihoods.
• Financial Inclusion & Skill Development: Empowering individuals through financial literacy, access to banking services, and skill training for better employment opportunities.
• Basic Infrastructure: Strengthening core infrastructure like roads, electricity, sanitation, and digital connectivity, which are essential for basic needs and economic growth.

 

3. What are the 49 indicators of aspirational districts?

The 49 indicators of aspirational districts cover various sectors and provide a comprehensive assessment of the development progress in these areas. Here is a broad overview of the key indicators:

• Health and Nutrition: Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR), Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR), Under-5 Mortality Rate (U5MR), Full Immunization Coverage, Institutional Delivery Rate, Antenatal Care Coverage, Exclusive Breastfeeding Coverage, Stunting (Height-for-Age) among Children, Wasting (Weight-for-Height) among Children, Anaemia among Children and Anaemia among Women.
• Education: Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) in Elementary Education, Transition Rate from Primary to Upper Primary, Dropout Rate in Upper Primary Schools, Average Learning Outcomes in Mathematics (Class 3, 5, and 8), Average Learning Outcomes in Language (Class 3, 5, and 8) and School Infrastructure Index.
• Agriculture and Water Resources: Crop Diversification, Sustainable Agriculture Practices and Completion of Projects under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY). 
• Financial Inclusion: Banking Penetration, Households with Bank Accounts, Households with Access to Credit and Households with Access to Insurance.
• Basic Infrastructure: Rural Road Connectivity, Household Toilets, Households with Electricity and Piped Water Supply. 
• Skill Development: Number of Youth Trained, Employment Rate and Entrepreneurship Development.
• Agriculture and Allied Activities: Fishery Development and Livestock Development. 
• Financial Inclusion: Progress under Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) and Penetration of Micro Units.
• Basic Infrastructure: Rural Road Connectivity, Piped Water Supply, Household Toilets and Households with Electricity. 
• Skill Development: Number of Youth Trained, Employment Rate and Entrepreneurship Development. 
• Basic Infrastructure: Rural Road Connectivity, Piped Water Supply, Household Toilets and Households with Electricity. 
• Skill Development: Number of Youth Trained, Employment Rate and Entrepreneurship Development. 

 

4. The criteria for aspirational district

• The criteria for identifying aspirational districts are based on a combination of backwardness indicators and the commitment of the district administration to implement development initiatives effectively. The key criteria include:
• The districts selected as aspirational districts typically exhibit relatively low scores on the NITI Aayog's Development Index or other relevant indices. These indices assess various socio-economic parameters, and districts with lower scores indicate a need for focused development interventions.
• The willingness of the district administration to improve and a demonstrated commitment to implementing development initiatives effectively are crucial criteria. Districts that actively engage in and prioritize developmental efforts are more likely to be selected as aspirational districts.
• Aspirational districts are expected to have the potential to quickly catch up with the national averages on key development indicators. The identification of districts with untapped potential helps in targeting interventions that can lead to accelerated development.
• The engagement of the district administration and the state government in a partnership mode with the Central Government and other stakeholders is essential. Collaborative efforts involving different levels of government and other organizations contribute to the success of the aspirational district initiatives.

 

5. About Aspirational Blocks Programme

The Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP) is a recent initiative building upon the success of the Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP). Launched in 2021, the ABP aims to achieve similar transformative goals at the block level, focusing on India's most underdeveloped 500 blocks across 25 states.

Key Features of Aspirational Block Programme

• The ABP identifies and prioritizes 500 blocks across all aspirational districts, based on specific criteria like poverty levels, social indicators, and infrastructure gaps.
• Similar to the ADP, the ABP emphasizes the convergence of existing government schemes and programs to avoid duplication and maximize impact.
• The program focuses on measurable outcomes rather than just outputs, ensuring interventions have a tangible positive effect on people's lives.
• Leveraging technology plays a crucial role in data collection, monitoring progress, and facilitating communication between stakeholders.
• Active participation and ownership by local communities are essential for the ABP's success. This includes involving panchayats, civil society organizations, and community leaders in planning, implementation, and monitoring.

 

6. The rationality behind Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP)

The rationality behind the Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP) is multifaceted, encompassing both practical considerations and aspirational goals:

Addressing Development Disparity within Districts

• The ADP successfully tackled development gaps at the district level, but disparities persisted within aspirational districts. The ABP focuses on the most underdeveloped blocks within these districts, aiming to ensure no block gets left behind.
• By zooming in on specific blocks, the ABP can tailor interventions to address their unique challenges and needs more effectively. This avoids a one-size-fits-all approach and potentially maximizes impact.
• The ABP aims for saturation of essential services across various domains, ensuring all residents within a block have access to basic healthcare, education, sanitation, etc., regardless of their location or socioeconomic background.

Boosting Grassroots Participation and Empowerment

• The ABP empowers communities by actively involving panchayats, civil society organizations, and local leaders in the program. This fosters a sense of ownership and accountability, leading to more sustainable development outcomes.
• Digital platforms and tools are used to enhance communication, transparency, and data accessibility. This empowers communities to hold authorities accountable and advocate for their needs.
• The ABP invests in skill development and capacity building for local stakeholders, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to plan, implement, and monitor development initiatives.

Leveraging Technology and Data for Efficiency

• Digital platforms enable real-time data collection and progress tracking, allowing for quick course correction and adjustments based on actual needs and outcomes.
• By analyzing data from various sources, the ABP can identify bottlenecks, prioritize interventions, and allocate resources more efficiently.
• The ABP promotes testing and adopting innovative solutions that can be replicated and scaled up across different blocks and districts, maximizing impact and cost-effectiveness.

 

7. The difference between the Aspirational Blocks Programme and Aspirational District Programme

 

Feature	Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP)	Aspirational District Programme (ADP)
Scale	Block-level	District-level
Emphasis	Saturation of essential services	Broader development goals (poverty reduction, social indicators, economic growth)
Community engagement	Strong emphasis on local ownership and participation	Encouraged, but primarily government-driven
Technology & data	Central role for digital platforms and real-time data	Less emphasis, relies more on traditional methods
Outcome-driven approach	Measurable outcomes like access to basic needs	Focus on achieving output targets within broader development framework

 

 

 

For Prelims: Aspirational District Programme,  Aspirational Blocks Programme,  NITI Aayog For Mains:  1. Explain the significance of the Aspirational District Programme (ADP) in the context of governance and development in India. (250 Words)

 

 

Previous Year Questions   1. The ‘Aspirational District Programme (ADP)’ was launched by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 5, 2018. Which of the following is not part of ‘Aspirational District Programme '? (RRB Officer Scale-I Mains 2021)  A. It is a special initiative to rapidly transform 115 identified districts that have shown relatively lesser progress in key social areas B. The Baseline Ranking was released by NITI Aayog on April 1, 2018. C. NITI Aayog in partnership with the Government of Andhra Pradesh has created a dashboard for monitoring the real-time progress of the districts. D. There are 70 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). E. The aim is to realise the vision of ‘SabkaSaath, SabkaVikas’, and ensure that India’s growth process remains inclusive.   2. Atal Innovation Mission is set up under the (UPSC 2019) (a) Department of Science and Technology (b) Ministry of Labour and Employment (c) NITI Aayog (d) Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship   3. The Government of India has established NITI Aayog to replace the (UPSC 2015)  A. Human Rights Commission B. Finance Commission C. Law Commission D. Planning Commission Answers: 1-D, 2-C, 3-D

 

Source: The Indian Express

KRISHNA RIVER MANAGEMENT BOARD (KRMB)

 

 

1. Context

With the stalemate on the Nagarjunasagar Project (NSP) site continuing, the Andhra Pradesh Government, has agreed for two requests made by the Union Ministry of Jal Sakti (MoJS) to stop water releases as a good gesture till Krishna River Management Board (KRMB) takes a decision on the indent placed by Andhra Pradesh on December 4 and the proposal to meet on December 6 at Delhi to discuss all the issues

 

2. Krishna River Management Board (KRMB)

• The Krishna River Management Board (KRMB) is a statutory body established under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act of 2014.
• Its primary purpose is to oversee the management, regulation, and distribution of water resources from the Krishna River among the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, as well as other regions that fall within the river basin.
• KRMB plays a crucial role in implementing various projects, managing water-sharing agreements, resolving disputes between the states, and ensuring equitable distribution of water resources among the stakeholders.
• It functions to maintain a balance in the utilization of water for irrigation, drinking water supply, hydropower generation, and other purposes while considering the needs of the various regions and addressing potential conflicts that may arise among the stakeholders
• The KRMB is headed by a Chairman, who is a senior officer of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS). The Chairman is assisted by a Member Secretary and a team of technical and administrative officers.
• The KRMB has four regional offices, located in Cuddapah, Kurnool, Vijayawada, and Hyderabad. These offices are responsible for monitoring the water resources in their respective regions and implementing the KRMB's decisions

3.Krishna River Basin

The Krishna River Basin is one of the major river basins in India, encompassing a vast area and playing a significant role in the water resources of the country. The Krishna River, originating in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, flows through several states, primarily Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, before draining into the Bay of Bengal.

The basin covers various terrains, from the mountainous regions where the river originates to the plains where it meanders through, supporting agriculture, industry, and livelihoods along its course. The river basin is vital for irrigation, hydropower generation, drinking water supply, and supporting diverse ecosystems

Given the importance of the Krishna River and its tributaries, efficient management and equitable distribution of water resources among the states sharing the basin become crucial. The Krishna River Basin has been a subject of water disputes and has seen the establishment of regulatory bodies like the Krishna River Management Board (KRMB) to manage water allocation, resolve conflicts, and ensure fair utilization of water resources among the states involved.

The Krishna Basin covers 258,948 square kilometers, which is about 8% of India's total geographical area. The basin is located in the following states: 

 

• Karnataka: 113,271 km2
• Telangana: 76,252 km2
• Andhra Pradesh: 76,252 km2
• Maharashtra: 69,425 km2

 

4. Challenges before KRMB 

The Krishna River Management Board (KRMB) faces several challenges in effectively managing and regulating the Krishna River Basin. Some of these challenges include:

• Disputes among the states sharing the Krishna River Basin regarding the allocation and distribution of water resources are a significant challenge. Balancing the water needs of different states, especially during times of scarcity, often leads to conflicts that need to be resolved through negotiations and agreements.
• The growing population, urbanization, and expanding agriculture put pressure on water resources. Balancing the increasing demands for irrigation, drinking water supply, industrial use, and hydropower generation becomes challenging, particularly during dry seasons or drought periods.
• Climate change brings uncertainties in rainfall patterns, leading to irregularities in water availability. Changes in precipitation levels, increased frequency of extreme weather events like droughts or floods, and rising temperatures can disrupt the natural flow of the river and affect water availability.
• Ensuring environmental sustainability and maintaining the ecological balance of the Krishna River Basin is essential. Balancing the needs of human activities with preserving the river's ecosystem and biodiversity poses a significant challenge.
• Developing and managing infrastructure such as dams, reservoirs, canals, and other water diversion projects require careful planning to optimize water usage and minimize negative impacts on communities and the environment.
• Ensuring effective governance, transparent decision-making, and the proper implementation of water management policies and agreements among the states is crucial for the KRMB. Coordination and cooperation among the states and stakeholders are essential for the successful functioning of the board

5. Tributaries of Krishna river

The Krishna River, one of India's longest rivers, is sustained by a network of tributaries that contribute to its immense volume and flow. These tributaries originate from various regions and play a crucial role in irrigating agricultural lands, supporting diverse ecosystems, and shaping the river's overall hydrological regime.

Here's a comprehensive list of the major tributaries of the Krishna River:

Left Bank Tributaries:

1. Yerla River: Emerging from the Mahadev Hills in Maharashtra, the Yerla River joins the Krishna River near Sangli, Maharashtra.

2. Bhima River: Rising from the Bhima Shankara Hills in Karnataka, the Bhima River is the Krishna River's longest tributary, stretching over 800 kilometers. It joins the Krishna River near Raichur, Karnataka.

3. Dindi River: Originating from the Nallamala Hills in Andhra Pradesh, the Dindi River joins the Krishna River near Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh.

4. Musi River: Flowing from the Ananthagiri Hills in Telangana, the Musi River joins the Krishna River near Hyderabad, Telangana.

5. Paleru River: Rising from the Nallamala Hills in Andhra Pradesh, the Paleru River joins the Krishna River near Machilipatnam, Andhra Pradesh.

6. Munneru River: Originating from the Nallamala Hills in Andhra Pradesh, the Munneru River joins the Krishna River near Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh.

Right Bank Tributaries:

1. Kudali (Niranjana) River: Emerging from the Sahyadri Hills in Maharashtra, the Kudali River joins the Krishna River near Kolhapur, Maharashtra.

2. Venna River: Originating from the Sahyadri Hills in Maharashtra, the Venna River joins the Krishna River near Satara, Maharashtra.

3. Koyna River: Flowing from the Mahadeo Hills in Maharashtra, the Koyna River is known for its spectacular waterfalls and hydroelectric power projects. It joins the Krishna River near Chiplun, Maharashtra.

4. Panchganga River: Formed by the confluence of five rivers – Krishna, Vishnu, Koyna, Bhima, and Ghataprabha – the Panchganga River joins the Krishna River near Sangli, Maharashtra.

5. Dhudhganga River: Rising from the Mahabaleshwar region in Maharashtra, the Dudhganga River joins the Krishna River near Krishnagiri, Karnataka.

6. Ghataprabha River: Originating from the Sahyadri Hills in Maharashtra, the Ghataprabha River is a significant tributary, joining the Krishna River near Vijayapura, Karnataka.

7. Malaprabha River: Emerging from the Sahyadri Hills in Karnataka, the Malaprabha River joins the Krishna River near Bagalkot, Karnataka.

8. Tungabhadra River: Formed by the confluence of the Tungabhadra and Bhadra rivers, the Tungabhadra River is a major tributary, joining the Krishna River near Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh

 

6. Way forward

Addressing these challenges requires collaborative efforts among the states, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies like KRMB. It involves employing efficient water management strategies, implementing conservation measures, adopting modern technologies, and fostering sustainable practices to ensure the equitable and sustainable use of Krishna River Basin's water resources

 

 

 

Previous Year Questions   1.Which is the source of Krishna river ? (SSC CHSL 2020) A.Amarkantak B.Tala C.Mahabaleshwar D.Multai Answer (C)

Source: The Hindu