• It is the rise in prices of goods and services within a particular economy wherein consumers' purchasing power decreases, and the value of the cash holdings erodes.
• In India, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) measures inflation.
• Some causes that lead to inflation are demand increases, reduction in supply, demand-supply gap, excess circulation of money, increase in input costs, devaluation of the currency, and rise in wages, among others.

3. How is Food Inflation measured in India?

Food inflation in India is measured using various indices and indicators. The primary indices used to measure food inflation in India include the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and the Wholesale Price Index (WPI). Both indices provide insights into the overall price movements of goods and services, including food items, but they differ in terms of their coverage and methodology.

Consumer Price Index (CPI)

• The CPI is a key indicator used by the Government of India and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to monitor inflation, including food inflation.
• The CPI measures the average change over time in the prices paid by urban and rural consumers for a basket of goods and services, including food items, housing, clothing, transportation, and more.
• Within the CPI, food and beverages form a significant component, and food inflation is specifically derived from the changes in food prices within the CPI basket.
• The CPI is released monthly by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.

Wholesale Price Index (WPI)

• The WPI is another important index that tracks price changes at the wholesale level for a selected group of commodities, including food products, manufactured goods, fuel, and more.
• The WPI measures price changes from the perspective of producers and wholesalers, providing insights into inflationary pressures in the production and distribution stages.
• Food articles, such as cereals, pulses, vegetables, fruits, and edible oils, are included in the WPI basket for monitoring food inflation.
• The WPI is released weekly by the Office of Economic Adviser under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

In addition to these indices, other indicators such as the Food Sub-Index within the CPI and specific price indices for essential food items (like vegetables, pulses, and cereals) are also used to gauge food inflation more accurately. The RBI closely monitors food inflation trends as part of its monetary policy framework to make informed decisions regarding interest rates and economic stability. Overall, the combination of CPI, WPI, and specific food-related indices provides a comprehensive assessment of food inflation in India.

4. Headline and Core Inflation

Inflation is a key economic indicator that measures the rate at which prices of goods and services rise over time. In India, two important measures of inflation are headline inflation and core inflation.

• Headline Inflation: Headline inflation refers to the overall rate of inflation in an economy, taking into account the price changes across all goods and services included in the consumer basket. It reflects the broad-based movement in prices, including food, fuel, housing, transportation, and other essential and non-essential items. Headline inflation is typically measured using indices such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and the Wholesale Price Index (WPI). Fluctuations in headline inflation can be influenced by various factors, including changes in global commodity prices, government policies, supply chain disruptions, and demand-side pressures.
• Core Inflation: Core inflation, on the other hand, excludes volatile items such as food and energy from the basket of goods used to calculate inflation. By excluding these volatile components, core inflation provides a more stable measure of underlying inflationary trends in the economy. Core inflation is often considered a better gauge of long-term inflationary pressures and helps policymakers in making informed decisions regarding monetary policy. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), for example, closely monitors core inflation to assess the underlying inflationary trends and formulate appropriate monetary policy responses.

Understanding the distinction between headline and core inflation is essential for policymakers, businesses, and consumers alike. While headline inflation provides a comprehensive view of overall price movements, core inflation offers insights into the underlying inflationary pressures, helping to distinguish between temporary fluctuations and sustained inflation trends. By closely monitoring both measures of inflation, policymakers can effectively manage inflationary risks and maintain price stability, contributing to sustainable economic growth and stability.

5. Monetary Policy Committee (MPC)

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is a crucial institutional framework established by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to formulate and implement monetary policy decisions in India. 

Role

• Formulating Monetary Policy: The primary role of the MPC is to formulate and implement monetary policy in India. This includes setting the key policy interest rates, such as the repo rate, reverse repo rate, and marginal standing facility (MSF) rate, to achieve the objectives of price stability and economic growth.
• Targeting Inflation: The MPC's main objective is to maintain price stability, which is primarily achieved by targeting a specific inflation rate. In India, the RBI has adopted a flexible inflation targeting framework, where the MPC aims to keep the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation within a specified target range over the medium term. Currently, the inflation target is set at 4% with a tolerance band of +/- 2%.
• Evaluating Economic Conditions: The MPC assesses various economic indicators, such as GDP growth, inflation expectations, fiscal policy measures, global economic developments, and financial market conditions, to make informed decisions about monetary policy.
• Communication: The MPC communicates its monetary policy decisions, rationale, and outlook for the economy through periodic press releases, statements, and the publication of meeting minutes. This transparency enhances predictability and credibility in monetary policy.

Composition

• Members: The MPC consists of six members, including three members nominated by the Government of India and three members from the Reserve Bank of India. The Governor of the RBI serves as the ex-officio Chairperson of the MPC.
• Appointment: The members of the MPC are appointed by the Central Government based on their expertise and experience in economics, banking, finance, or related fields. The RBI Governor and Deputy Governor (in charge of monetary policy) are automatic members of the MPC.
• Voting Rights: Each member of the MPC, including the RBI Governor, has one vote in the decision-making process. Decisions are made by a majority vote, with the Governor having the casting vote in case of a tie.
• Terms: Members of the MPC serve fixed terms, typically for four years, with eligibility for reappointment. This ensures continuity and stability in monetary policy formulation.

6. The Way Forward

By implementing the measures and fostering collaborative efforts among policymakers, regulators, and stakeholders, India can effectively manage inflationary pressures, maintain price stability, and promote sustainable economic growth and development.

LAVENDER CULTIVATION

 

 

1. Context

When lavender cultivation was first introduced to Bhaderwah subdivision in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district in 2015, most farmers were sceptical and just a handful gave it a go. Today, these early adopters have significantly expanded cultivation, employ 30-40 people each on a full-time basis, have their own distillation units for making lavender oil, and market their products in different parts of the country

 

2. About Lavender

 

• Lavender, which thrives in regions with snowy winters and hilly landscapes, blooms and becomes ready for harvest approximately two and a half years after being planted.
• The same lavender plant can continue to produce flowers for 18-20 years without the need for significant amounts of insecticides, pesticides, or other chemicals commonly used in conventional crops such as maize and rice.
• Lavender finds diverse applications in the production of perfumes, soaps, incense sticks (agarbatti), and air fresheners.
• This particular variety of lavender is exceptionally well-suited for cultivation in rainfed temperate regions across India.
• One advantage of selling dried lavender flowers is that consumers are assured of their purity, as they are free from adulteration. Additionally, apart from extracting oil as needed, buyers can utilise them for various other purposes

Temperature and soil condition for lavender cultivation

Temperature:

• Lavender generally prefers temperate climates with moderate temperatures.
• It grows best in regions where the average temperatures range from 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 30 degrees Celsius) during the growing season.
• Lavender can withstand cold winters, but it requires protection from extreme frost and snowfall, especially during the dormant period.

Soil Conditions:

• Well-drained soil is essential for lavender cultivation to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
• Sandy or loamy soils with good drainage and a slightly alkaline pH (around 6.5 to 8.5) are ideal for lavender.
• Soil that is rich in organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, can help promote healthy growth.
• Lavender plants are sensitive to soil moisture levels, so it's crucial to avoid waterlogged or excessively dry conditions.
• Additionally, lavender thrives in soil with good aeration and adequate sunlight exposure

 3.Lavender cultivation in India

Lavender cultivation in India has gained popularity in recent years, particularly in regions with suitable climatic conditions. While traditionally associated with Mediterranean climates, lavender can be successfully grown in certain parts of India that offer favorable temperatures and soil conditions.

Some key points regarding lavender cultivation in India include:

• Lavender thrives in regions with temperate climates characterized by moderate temperatures and ample sunlight. States like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, parts of Punjab, and certain hilly areas in the Western Ghats provide suitable conditions for lavender cultivation. These regions experience cooler temperatures and well-drained soil, which are conducive to lavender growth
• Lavender prefers well-drained, slightly alkaline soil with good aeration. Sandy or loamy soils are ideal, and soil pH ranging from 6.5 to 8.5 is considered suitable for lavender cultivation. Soil rich in organic matter and minerals can promote healthy growth and enhance oil quality in lavender plants
• Selecting the appropriate lavender varieties adapted to Indian conditions is crucial for successful cultivation. Certain varieties, such as Lavandula angustifolia (English lavender) and Lavandula x intermedia (lavandin), have shown good adaptability to Indian climates
• Proper cultural practices including irrigation, pruning, fertilization, and weed management are essential for lavender cultivation. Adequate spacing between plants, typically around 30 to 60 cm, allows for good airflow and sunlight penetration, reducing the risk of diseases
• Lavender is typically harvested when the flowers are in full bloom, usually during the summer months. Harvesting is done by hand or using machinery, followed by drying the flowers to preserve their quality. Lavender flowers are then processed for various uses, including oil extraction for perfumes, cosmetics, aromatherapy, and culinary purposes
• Lavender cultivation in India offers promising economic opportunities, particularly in the production of essential oils, perfumes, soaps, and other value-added products. The growing demand for natural and organic products has led to increased interest in lavender farming among Indian farmers and entrepreneurs

Statistics

• According to officials, more than 700 acres of farmland has been brought under lavender cultivation in the area since 2017, and another 100 acres is set to be added.
• The crop was officially introduced in Bhaderwah by the Council Of Scientific and Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM), Jammu, in 2015
• CSIR plans to distribute lavender plants to farmers in parts of Kathua, Rajouri, Poonch, and the Kashmir Valley, besides Uttrakhand, Himachal Pradesh and the Northeast
• CSIR-IIIM, Jammu, provides lavender growers end-to-end support, from supplying them quality planting material, to training them, helping them with distillation, and providing them market linkages
• There is a sharp decline in the price of lavender oil, now around Rs 2,500-3,000 per litre as opposed to Rs 12,000 a few years ago. The price drop has been attributed to the import of oil from Bulgaria, France and China by buyers elsewhere in India

4. What is floriculture?

 

Floriculture is a branch of horticulture focused on the cultivation and management of flowering and ornamental plants for commercial and decorative purposes. It involves the production of flowers, foliage plants, and ornamental crops that are used for various purposes such as floral arrangements, landscaping, interior decoration, and gift-giving.

Key aspects of floriculture include:

• Floriculture encompasses a wide range of plant species, including cut flowers (such as roses, lilies, carnations, and chrysanthemums), potted plants (such as orchids, gerberas, and poinsettias), bedding plants (such as petunias, marigolds, and impatiens), and foliage plants (such as ferns, palms, and philodendrons). Growers select crops based on market demand, climatic suitability, and production requirements
• Floriculture involves various cultivation practices to ensure optimal growth and development of plants. This includes selecting appropriate growing media, providing adequate irrigation and nutrition, controlling pests and diseases, and implementing proper pruning and training techniques. Greenhouse production is common in floriculture, as it allows growers to control environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and light intensity
• Harvesting of flowers and ornamental plants is done at specific stages of maturity to ensure maximum quality and longevity. Post-harvest treatments such as grading, sorting, packaging, and transportation are crucial to preserve the freshness and appearance of the products. Cold storage and refrigeration may also be used to extend the shelf life of cut flowers
• Floriculture products are marketed through various channels, including wholesale markets, retail florists, garden centers, supermarkets, online platforms, and floriculture auctions. The industry caters to diverse market segments, including individual consumers, event planners, wedding decorators, and floral designers
• Floriculture is a significant sector of the agricultural industry with substantial economic importance. It provides employment opportunities for a wide range of stakeholders, including growers, farm workers, florists, distributors, and exporters. The industry also contributes to tourism, beautification of urban areas, and cultural and social events

Aroma Mission The CSIR-Aroma Mission is a flagship project of CSIR under which Lavender cultivation is being promoted in the temperate regions of J&K.The aim of the project is to increase the income of small and marginal farmers and develop agriculture-based Startups

 

5. Way Forward

Today, these early adopters have significantly expanded cultivation, employ 30-40 people each on a full-time basis, have their own distillation units for making lavender oil, and market their products in different parts of the country.

 

 

For Prelims: Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity For Mains: Major crops-cropping patterns in various parts of the country, transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints

 

 

Previous Year Questions   1.Which one of the following statements about the Indigo Revolt of 1859 is correct? (UPSC CAPF 2017) A.It broke out at Poona and Ahmadnagar B.It was directed against moneylenders C.It was supported by the intelligentsia of Bengal ​ D.It was directed against the petty Zamindars and ex-employees of the planters Answer (C)

Source: Indianexpress

GLOBAL HEPATITIS REPORT 2024

 

 

1. Context

 

India is one of the countries with the highest burden of viral hepatitis — an infection that causes liver inflammation, damage and may lead to liver cancer — with 2.9 crore people living with Hepatitis B infection and 0.55 crore living with Hepatitis C infection, according to the Global Hepatitis Report 2024

 

2.Global Hepatitis Report 2024 Highlights

 

• In 2022, there were more than 50,000 newly reported cases of Hepatitis B and 140,000 new cases of Hepatitis C in India, resulting in the deaths of approximately 123,000 individuals, according to the report.
• Both infections are transmitted from mother to child during childbirth, through unscreened blood transfusions, contact with infected blood, or sharing needles among drug users. The report emphasizes the importance of vaccination to prevent Hepatitis B, while noting that Hepatitis C is treatable with medication.
• Hepatitis B typically causes acute symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and jaundice for several weeks, sometimes leading to liver failure. However, the main concern is its potential to develop into chronic, lifelong liver disease, particularly problematic when contracted during childhood.
• Chronic infection can lead to liver scarring (cirrhosis) and increase the risk of liver cancer, although there are medications available to slow the progression of the virus in chronic cases.
• Many individuals infected with Hepatitis C do not experience symptoms or are unaware of their infection. Those who do develop symptoms usually notice them between two to 12 weeks after exposure, including jaundice, loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain, fever, dark urine, pale stools, joint pain, and fatigue

3. What is Hepatitis B and C

 

Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C are both viral infections that primarily affect the liver.

Hepatitis B:

• Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), which is transmitted through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids.
• This can occur through unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing needles or syringes, or from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth.
• In some cases, hepatitis B can also be transmitted through contact with contaminated objects, such as shared razors or toothbrushes.
• Hepatitis B infection can lead to both acute and chronic forms of the disease. Acute hepatitis B is a short-term illness that typically resolves on its own within a few months, although some individuals may develop chronic hepatitis B, where the infection persists for six months or longer.
• Chronic hepatitis B can lead to serious liver complications over time, including liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer.
• Prevention of hepatitis B primarily involves vaccination, which is highly effective at preventing infection. Treatment for hepatitis B may involve antiviral medications to control the virus and prevent liver damage, although not everyone with chronic hepatitis B requires treatment.

Hepatitis C:

• Hepatitis C is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), which is transmitted through contact with infected blood. This can occur through sharing needles or syringes, receiving contaminated blood transfusions or organ transplants, or from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth.
• Hepatitis C can also be transmitted through less common routes, such as sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes. Hepatitis C infection can lead to both acute and chronic forms of the disease.
• Acute hepatitis C is a short-term illness that typically develops within six months of exposure to the virus. Most individuals with acute hepatitis C develop chronic hepatitis C, which can lead to serious liver complications over time, including liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer.
• Unlike hepatitis B, there is currently no vaccine available for hepatitis C. However, hepatitis C is curable with antiviral medications, and recent advancements in treatment have significantly improved cure rates for the infection.
• Treatment for hepatitis C typically involves a combination of antiviral medications taken over several weeks to months, depending on the specific genotype of the virus and other factors. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing liver damage and complications from hepatitis C infection

4. What is the Universal Immunisation Programme in India?

• The Universal Immunization Program (UIP) in India is a public health initiative launched by the Government of India to provide free vaccinations to all children across the country. The program aims to protect children from various vaccine-preventable diseases and reduce morbidity and mortality rates associated with these diseases.
• The UIP was launched in 1985 as the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) and was later expanded and renamed as the Universal Immunization Program in 2014. The program is implemented by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, in collaboration with state governments and various other stakeholders.
• Under the UIP, a schedule of vaccinations is provided to children from birth up to the age of 16 years. The vaccines provided through the program include those for diseases such as tuberculosis, polio, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, measles, hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) among others.
• The program utilizes a network of thousands of immunization centers, including hospitals, health centers, and outreach sites, to deliver vaccines to children. Health workers and community volunteers play a crucial role in administering vaccines, raising awareness about the importance of immunization, and mobilizing communities to participate in vaccination campaigns.
• The UIP has significantly contributed to the reduction of vaccine-preventable diseases and has been credited with saving millions of lives in India. However, efforts are ongoing to strengthen the program further, improve vaccine coverage rates, and introduce new vaccines to protect against emerging threats to public health

 5.Way Forward

 

In India, while the numbers of deaths due to viral hepatitis aren’t comparable to tuberculosis — TB killed an estimated 3.31 lakh people in 2022 — what is concerning is that the coverage of diagnosis and treatment for the infections remains very low

 

 

For Prelims: Current events of national and international importance. For Mains: GS II: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources

 

 

Previous Year Questions 1.Which of the following statements is not correct? (UPSC CSE 2015) (a) Hepatitis B virus is transmitted much like HIV. (b) Hepatitis B, unlike Hepatitis C, does not have a vaccine. (c) Globally, the number of people infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses are several times more than those infected with HIV. (d) Some of those infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses do not show the symptoms for many years Answer (b)

 

Source: Indianexpress

UNEMPLOYMENT IN INDIAN STATES

 

 

1.Context

 

A recent report released by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Institute for Human Development (IHD) revealed that two out of every three unemployed individuals was a young graduate, highlighting the need for urgent policy intervention. Little is understood about the causes of unemployment in India, a knowledge gap that requires urgent redressal.

 

2. What is Unemployment?

 

Unemployment refers to a situation where individuals who are willing and able to work at prevailing wage rates are unable to find jobs.

In other words, it represents a condition where people are actively seeking employment but are currently without work.

Unemployment can occur due to various reasons, including economic downturns, technological changes, mismatch of skills between job seekers and available jobs, and structural issues within the labour market.

Unemployment is typically measured by the unemployment rate, which is the percentage of the labour force that is unemployed and actively seeking employment

 

3. An analysis of unemployment

 

• Goa's unemployment rate stands at nearly 10%, surpassing the national average of 3.17% by more than threefold. It's notable that four of the top five states with high unemployment rates—Goa, Kerala, Haryana, and Punjab—are relatively affluent. In contrast, Maharashtra and Gujarat in western India, both prosperous states, report unemployment rates considerably below the national average.
• Across northern states like Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh, unemployment rates exceed the national average. Similarly, most southern states, except Karnataka, also have higher than average unemployment rates.
• Among the 27 states examined, 12 have unemployment rates lower than the national average. Notably, the low rates in significant states such as Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh contribute to this national average decline.
• However, it's puzzling that except for Maharashtra and Gujarat, states with below-average unemployment rates generally exhibit lower per capita incomes compared to the national average

4.The determinants of unemployment

 

• The data reveals a downward-sloping trend line, suggesting a negative correlation between the two factors: in states where a significant portion of the workforce is involved in self-employment, the unemployment rate tends to be lower.
• Given that much of self-employment in India is informal, states with a higher prevalence of informal work may find it easier to accommodate job seekers.
• However, it remains uncertain whether this relationship is causal. Does a lack of opportunities in self-employment lead to higher unemployment, or do individuals in states with high unemployment rates simply prefer not to pursue self-employment?
• A considerable portion of informal self-employment stems from agriculture and rural economies.
• Hence, a relevant measure is to analyze the proportion of the workforce engaged in urban sectors.
• A clear positive correlation emerges, indicating that unemployment rates rise in states with higher urbanization levels.
• This elucidates the elevated unemployment levels in highly urbanized states like Goa and Kerala, juxtaposed with lower rates in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Madhya Pradesh. Urbanized states typically possess smaller agrarian sectors, leading to fewer informal job opportunities compared to rural areas.
• Although informal sectors persist in urban settings, their capacity to absorb job seekers is relatively limited compared to rural agriculture, which often serves as a reserve by absorbing surplus labour

5. Education and employment

 

• However, there are exceptions to this pattern. Gujarat and Maharashtra, despite being highly urbanized—where the urban workforce comprises 37% in both states, significantly higher than in states like Uttar Pradesh (17%) and Madhya Pradesh (20%)—exhibit lower unemployment rates.
• Following the release of the ILO-IHD report, much discourse has revolved around the correlation between education levels and unemployment.
• A previous article in this publication dated December 26, 2023, titled 'Are graduates facing unemployment?', also delved into the prevalent issue of unemployment among graduates.
• For instance, Kerala boasts a highly educated workforce, with graduates constituting 30% of the labor force, yet it contends with high unemployment.
• Conversely, Gujarat and Maharashtra have a relatively smaller proportion of graduates in their workforce—approximately 14% and 20% respectively—and consequently experience lower unemployment rates despite their affluence and urbanization.
• Numerous factors may account for this phenomenon.
• It's plausible that graduates lack the necessary skills demanded by the burgeoning modern sector, underscoring the need to enhance educational infrastructure and standards.
• However, this doesn't fully elucidate why graduates have historically grappled with unemployment, even during the nascent stages of the modern sector.
• Another potential explanation lies in aspirational factors. Graduates aspire to secure high-paying jobs commensurate with their skills, rather than settling for informal employment.
• If the modern sector fails to expand adequately to absorb new graduates, it could precipitate unemployment.
• Nonetheless, these aren't the sole drivers of unemployment; state policies also wield significant influence. Nevertheless, this analysis underscores the interconnectedness between structural shifts and unemployment.
• As burgeoning economies evolve, there's a diminishing reliance on agriculture, accompanied by heightened urbanization and educational attainment.
• As India progresses, these factors are anticipated to exert upward pressure on the unemployment rate. Thus, it's imperative for policy initiatives to prioritize employment generation to counteract these trends

6. Way Forward

 

Additionally, states with significant rural populations, such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh, may experience higher unemployment rates due to limited job opportunities outside of agriculture and a lack of sufficient infrastructure for industrial development

 

For Prelims: Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR), Employment Rate (ER), Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE), and Labour Force. For Mains: 1. Discuss the significance of the Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR) as a critical labor market indicator in the context of economic development and policy formulation. (250 words).

 

Previous year Question 1. In India, which one of the following compiles information on industrial disputes, closures, retrenchments, and lay-offs in factories employing workers? (UPSC 2022) A. Central Statistics Office B. Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade C. Labour Bureau D. National Technical Manpower Information System Answer: C   2. Which of the following brings out the 'Consumer Price Index Number for Industrial Workers'? (UPSC 2015) A. The Reserve Bank of India B. The Department of Economic Affairs C. The Labour Bureau D. The Department of Personnel and Training Answer: C   3. International Labour Organization's Conventions 138 and 182 are related to (UPSC 2018) A. Child labour B. Adaptation of agricultural practices to global climate change C. Regulation of food prices and food D. Security Answer: A   4. Which of the following statements about the employment situation in India according to the periodic Labour Force Survey 2017-18 is/are correct? (UPSC CAPF 2020) 1. Construction sector gave employment to nearly one-tenth of the urban male workforce in India. 2. Nearly one-fourth of urban female workers in India were working in the manufacturing sector. 3. One-fourth of rural female workers in India were engaged in the agriculture sector. Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 2 only B. 1 and 2 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: B

Source: The Hindu

 

ALIEN SPECIES

 

1. Context

In a bid to manage the teeming population of chital (spotted deer) in Ross Island (officially known as the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island), the Andaman and Nicobar Islands administration recently sought help from the Wildlife Institute of India.

 

2. Alien Species

Invasive species, also known as exotic or alien species, refer to plants, animals, or microorganisms that are introduced to a new habitat or ecosystem, typically by human activities, and have the potential to cause harm to the environment, economy, or human health in the new location. Invasive species can outcompete native species, disrupt ecosystems, and pose significant challenges for biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management

 

2.1. Key Characteristics

• Invasive species are often introduced intentionally or unintentionally by humans.
• They can be introduced through trade, transport, travel, or deliberate release for various purposes, such as agriculture, horticulture, aquaculture, and pet trade
• Invasive species tend to have characteristics that give them a competitive advantage in the new environment.
• This can include rapid reproduction, lack of natural predators or diseases, and adaptability to different environmental conditions
• Invasive species can disrupt ecosystems by outcompeting native species for resources like food, water, and habitat. They may alter nutrient cycling, fire regimes, and other ecosystem processes
•  Invasive species are a significant threat to native biodiversity. They can lead to the decline or extinction of native species through predation, competition, or habitat modification.
• Invasive species can also have severe economic impacts. They can damage agricultural crops, forests, fisheries, and infrastructure. Controlling and managing invasive species can be costly
• Some invasive species can pose risks to human health. For example, certain invasive plants may trigger allergies, while invasive mosquitoes can transmit diseases like Zika and West Nile virus
•  Invasive species are a global issue, and international cooperation is crucial for addressing the problem.
• Organizations like the Convention on Biological Diversity and regional agreements work to address invasive species at a global level
• Efforts to manage and control invasive species may involve eradication, containment, prevention, and control measures.
• Biological control, chemical control, and physical methods are often used, depending on the species and the context

3. Exotic Species

An exotic species is a species that is not native to a particular area. This can include plants, animals, and microorganisms. Exotic species are often introduced to new areas by humans, either intentionally or unintentionally.

Exotic species can have both positive and negative impacts on agriculture. On the one hand, exotic species can be used to improve crop yields and resistance to pests and diseases.

For example, the introduction of exotic crop varieties, such as corn and soybeans, to the Americas led to a significant increase in agricultural production

 

3.1. Key Characteristics

• Exotic species are species that have been moved from their native range to a new geographic area, often due to human activities.
• They can be introduced through trade, travel, agriculture, aquaculture, horticulture, and other human-mediated means.
• Exotic species may possess characteristics that make them successful in their new environment. These characteristics can include rapid growth, efficient reproduction, lack of natural predators, and the ability to adapt to different environmental conditions.
• Exotic species can have a range of ecological impacts. They may outcompete native species for resources such as food, water, and habitat, leading to declines in native biodiversity.
• Some exotic species can alter ecosystem processes, such as nutrient cycling or fire regimes
• Exotic species can also have economic impacts. They may damage agricultural crops, forests, fisheries, and infrastructure, leading to financial losses. Controlling and managing exotic species can be expensive
• Not all exotic species have negative impacts. Some introduced species can provide benefits to the new environment or human society. For example, certain exotic plants may have ornamental value or be used in agriculture
• Managing exotic species typically involves prevention, early detection, and control measures. Strategies may include eradication, containment, biological control (using natural enemies), chemical control, and physical removal methods

4. Differences between alien species and exotic species

 

Alien Species	Exotic Species
"Alien Species" is a more global or generic term used in international contexts and by organizations like the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) to refer to species introduced outside their native range.	"Exotic Species" is sometimes used in more localized or regional contexts and may have slightly different connotations depending on the region. For example, in North America, "exotic" is often used interchangeably with "alien," while in Europe, "exotic" might refer to species introduced from outside the continent.
"Alien Species" tends to have a more neutral or scientific connotation, emphasizing the fact that the species is not native to the area.	"Exotic Species" can sometimes carry connotations of novelty or unfamiliarity, highlighting the species' exotic or non-native status. This term is often used in horticulture and the pet trade to describe non-native species introduced for decorative or ornamental purposes.

 

 

Previous year Questions   Read the following passage and answer. Your answers to these items should be based on the passages only. (UPSC CSE CSAT 2018)   Most invasive species are neither terribly successful nor very harmful. Britain's invasive plants are not widespread, not spreading especially quickly, and often less of a nuisance than vigorous natives such as bracken. The arrival of new species almost always increases biological diversity in a region; in many cases, a flood of newcomers drives no native species to extinction. One reason is that invaders tend to colonise disturbed habitats like polluted lakes and post-industrial wasteland, where little else lives. They are nature’s opportunists. Which one of the following is the most logical and rational inference that can be made from the above passage? A.Invasive species should be used to rehabilitate desert areas and wastelands of a country. B.Laws against the introduction of foreign plants are unnecessary. C.Sometimes, the campaigns against foreign plants are pointless. D.Foreign plants should be used to increase the biodiversity of a country   Answer (C)

 

Source: indianexpress