Monthly Per Capita Consumer Expenditure (MPCE) is a metric that measures the average spending per person in a household over a specified period, usually a month. It is a key indicator used in economic surveys and studies to assess the patterns of household consumption and expenditure.

Here's a breakdown of the components:

• Monthly: The expenditure is calculated over a monthly timeframe. This allows for a regular and standardized measurement of consumer spending.

• Per Capita: The total household expenditure is divided by the number of individuals in the household to arrive at the per capita expenditure. This normalization accounts for variations in household size, providing a more accurate representation of spending on an individual basis.

• Consumer Expenditure: This includes the total spending on various goods and services by members of a household. Consumer expenditure encompasses a wide range of items such as food, housing, education, healthcare, transportation, entertainment, and more.

MPCE is a crucial parameter for understanding the economic well-being and consumption patterns of households. It helps policymakers, researchers, and economists analyze trends in consumer behavior, identify changes in spending patterns over time, and assess the impact of economic policies on households.

The data on MPCE is often collected through household surveys, such as the National Sample Survey in India, where respondents are asked to provide details about their expenditures across different categories. This information is then aggregated and analyzed to draw conclusions about the economic conditions of the population

5.Way Forward

The Consumer Price Index (CPI)-based inflation, also called retail inflation, is currently based on a basket that was decided in 2012. But over the last 11 years, as the latest Household Consumption Expenditure (HCE) Survey 2022-23 shows, a lot has changed.

Source: Indianexpress

CURRENT ACCOUNT DEFICIT

1. Context 

2. What is a Current Account Deficit (CAD)?

• The Current Account Deficit (CAD) refers to a situation where a country's total imports of goods, services, investment incomes, and unilateral transfers exceed its total exports. It represents a deficit or negative balance in the country's current account, which is a component of its balance of payments.
• CAD reflects a nation's dependence on foreign sources to finance its consumption and investment. A persistent deficit in the current account might indicate that a country is spending more on foreign goods and services than it is earning, leading to increased borrowing from other countries to cover the shortfall.
• This deficit is not necessarily negative on its own, as it can be financed by foreign investments or borrowing. However, if it becomes unsustainable or grows excessively large, it could pose risks to the country's economic stability, currency value, and overall financial health. Governments often monitor and aim to manage their current account deficits to maintain a healthy balance in their economy.

3. The significance of CAD

• When the value of the goods and services that a country imports exceed the value of the products it exports, it is called the current account deficit.
• CAD and the fiscal deficit together make up the twin deficits the enemies of the stock market and investors.
• If the current account of the country's trade and transactions with other countries show a surplus, that indicates money is flowing into the country, boosting the foreign exchange reserves and the value of the rupee against the dollar.
• These are factors that will have ramifications on the economy and the stock markets as well as on returns on investments by people.

4. RBI on CAD

• According to the RBI, the CAD which was at $36.4 billion for the quarter ending September 2022, is expected to moderate in the second half of 2022-23 and remain eminently manageable and within the parameters of viability.
• CAD for the first half of 2022-23 stood at 3.3. per cent of the GDP.
• The situation has shown improvement in Q3: 2022-23 as imports moderated in the wake of lower commodity prices, resulting in the narrowing of the merchandise trade deficit.

5. Narrowed Trade deficit 

• January trade deficit narrowed to $17.7 billion, led by a sharp fall in imports, while exports fell by a smaller amount.
•  The sharp drop in imports was due to non-oil imports falling, mainly due to a price impact (softening in coal prices from mid-December), likely softening in domestic demand post the festival season (Such as lower imports of transport equipment) and the seasonal impact of the Chinese New Year holidays.
• On the other hand, after the Rs 26, 000 crore sell-off by foreign portfolio investors in January, FPI outflows have come down to Rs 4, 400 crores in February so far.
• Workers' remittances went up to $ 30 billion in the April-September 2022 period from $ 25. 48 billion in the same period a year ago.
• At the same time, gold imports fell to $20 billion from $ 23.9 billion a year ago.

6. Improvement of Capital flow

• While there is a perception in the markets that capital flows could come under some pressure with China's reopening and any deviations in monetary policy expectations, inflows are expected to increase the economy on the whole as foreign investors are unlikely to keep away from India, which is expected to witness one of the highest growth rates among large economies.
• At a time when the economies of many developed markets are expected to take a hit, the RBI has projected the GDP growth for the next fiscal (FY2024) at 6.4 per cent and the Union Budget has indicated a capital expenditure of Rs 10 lakh crore (over $120 billion).
• Moreover, with the rise in interest rates in India after the RBI hiked the repo rate by 250 basis points to 6.50 per cent, non-resident Indian deposits, remittances and FPI investment in debt are expected to rise further.
• NRI deposits had increased by $3.62 billion to $ 134.49 billion in the April-November period of 2022.
• Capital flow into India came under pressure in 2022 following the sharp rise in interest rates in the US.
• While FPIs pulled out Rs 121, 439 crores in 2022, even in the first six weeks of 2023, the FPI flow has been negative and the equity markets have witnessed a net outflow of Rs 32, 887 crores till February 16.
• While the flow of capital will depend upon the interest rate movement and currency movements vis-a-vis the US dollar, there is optimism among global investors about India.

7. Moderate CAD impact on Market

• While rising CAD raises concerns among investors as it hurts the currency and thereby the inflow of funds into the markets a notable decline in CAD in January has improved market sentiments.
• The benchmark Sensex at BSE rose 407 points intraday on Thursday before closing at 61, 319 with a gain of 44 points or 0.07 per cent.
• CAD is very important for the currency and the value of an economy hinges a lot on the value of its currency thereby, it also supports the equity markets by keeping the fund flow intact.
• While the numbers for January have come good, experts say this needs to be sustained.

For Prelims & Mains

COMMISSION FOR AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT (CAQM)

 

 

1. Context

 

CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP revokes Stage-III of revised GRAP in the entire NCR with immediate effect. All actions under Stages II & I of revised GRAP shall however remain invoked and be implemented, intensified, monitored and reviewed by all agencies concerned in the entire NCR to ensure that the AQI levels do not rise further in the coming days

 

2. Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)

 

• The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the National Capital Region (NCR) and nearby areas was initially established through an ordinance in 2020, which was subsequently replaced by an Act of Parliament in 2021.
• Its primary mandate is to enhance coordination, conduct research, identify issues, and address challenges related to air quality and associated concerns.
• At its inception, the CAQM comprised 15 members, including current and former officials from the Ministry of Environment and other Union government departments, along with representatives from various State governments, NGOs, and other organizations. Currently, the commission, led by Rajesh Verma, has expanded to 27 members.
• The CAQM succeeded the Environmental Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA), which was created by the Supreme Court in 1998. Unlike the CAQM, the EPCA lacked statutory authority, which experts criticized as limiting its ability to enforce compliance among defiant agencies.
• Nevertheless, several initiatives now overseen by the CAQM, such as the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)—a framework of temporary emergency measures to combat air pollution—were originally implemented under the EPCA's guidance

 

 

Powers of CAQM   The Commission for Air Quality Management in the National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021, empowers the CAQM to undertake any necessary measures, issue directives, and address grievances aimed at safeguarding and enhancing air quality in the NCR and surrounding regions. According to Section 14 of the Act, the commission is authorized to take strict action against officials who fail to comply with its directives

 

 

3. Supreme Court on CAQM

 

• The Supreme Court recently criticized the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for delays in enforcing stricter anti-pollution measures as Delhi's air quality worsened.
• Despite the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching hazardous levels, the CAQM postponed the implementation of Stage 4 measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), prompting the Court to question the lack of urgency in addressing the crisis.
• The justices emphasized that such measures should be triggered as soon as AQI levels indicate severe pollution to prevent further deterioration.
• The Court also highlighted systemic failures, including inadequate action against stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana, and criticized the CAQM for focusing on meetings without concrete enforcement of rules.
• It warned against scaling down measures prematurely and stressed the need for stricter penalties and immediate action to curb pollution sources effectively

 

4. Challenges

 

• Although the CAQM formulates strategies and coordinates with various agencies, the actual implementation of these measures rests with the respective agencies.
• A CAQM official noted that the commission has significantly improved coordination and planning efforts.
• For instance, while paddy stubble burning—a major contributor to severe air pollution—occurs primarily in October and November, discussions with State officials begin as early as February and continue throughout the season.
• In 2022, the CAQM collaborated with Punjab and Haryana to develop action plans for managing stubble burning, which are reviewed and updated annually.

5. Way Forward

 

Discussing the challenges faced, the official acknowledged that while the commission has focused heavily on tackling stubble burning in the past, there is now a shift towards addressing multiple pollution sources. Moving forward, greater emphasis will be placed on controlling dust and vehicular emissions alongside agricultural pollution

 

For Prelims: Graded Response Action Plan, National Capital Region (NCR),Environmental pollution(prevention control)Authority (EPCA). For Mains: 1. What is GRAP? What is the Delhi-NCR action plan as air pollution increases? (250 words).

 

Source: The Hindu

 

SMART CITY MISSION

 

1. Context

Reviving the Culture of Public reading spaces: from Srinagar to Chennai, Aurangabad to Aizawl, Smart Cities Mission upgrades Public Education facilities

 

2. What is Smart City Mission?

• The Smart Cities Mission aims at developing 100 cities, which were shortlisted, into self-sustainable urban settlements.
• The mission was launched on June 25, 2015, and was projected as one aimed at transforming the process of urban development in the country.
• Among its strategic components is ‘area-based development, which includes city improvement (retrofitting), city renewal (redevelopment), and city extension (greenfield development), plus a pan-city initiative in which ‘smart solutions’ are applied covering larger parts of the city.

3. Key Focus areas of the Smart City Mission

• Key focus areas of the scheme include the construction of walkways, pedestrian crossings, cycling tracks, efficient waste-management systems, integrated traffic management, and assessment.
• The scheme also assesses various indices to track urban development such as the Ease of Living Index, Municipal Performance Index, City GDP framework, Climate-smart Cities assessment framework, etc.

4. Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC)

• The Smart Cities Mission includes setting up ICCCs for each such city as a vital step.
• These ICCCs are designed to enable authorities to monitor the status of various amenities in real time.
• Initially aimed at controlling and monitoring water and power supply, sanitation, traffic movement, integrated building management, city connectivity and Internet infrastructure, these centres have since evolved to monitor various other parameters.
• The ICCCs are now also linked to the CCTNS (Crime and Criminal Tracking Networks and Systems) network under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• The ICCC acts of a smart city acts as a “nerve centre” for operations management.
• It processes a complex and large pool of data sets at an aggregated level. For example, it is now the go-to source for integrated traffic management monitoring.
• The ICCC is the nodal point of availability of all online data and information relating to smart services included in a smart city, such as LED street lighting, CCTV surveillance cameras, air quality sensors, smart parking system, WiFi, electricity and water supply and billing, GIS, e-hospitals, property tax management, estate management, engineering systems, asset management systems, and other services.
• During the pandemic, they also served as war rooms for Covid-19 management.

5. How did the ICCCs help in the management of Covid-19?

• During the pandemic, they also served as war rooms for Covid-19 management.
• During the peak of the first wave, when countries were struggling to figure out ways of combating the virus, the government used the ICCCs as war rooms for managing the outbreak, with real-time surveillance and monitoring of districts across the country.
• Converted into war rooms, the smart cities ICCCs used the central data dashboard and provided information about the status of Covid-positive cases in various administrative zones of these cities, officials aware of the exercise said.
• The war rooms were also used for tracking people under quarantine and suspected Covid 19 cases.

6. Current Status of Smart Cities Mission

• The ambitious project, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015, had an initial deadline of 2021 for the first lot of 20 smart cities out of the 100 selected.
• Although the project was announced in 2015, the cities were selected over a period of two years between 2016 and 2018, each with a deadline of completion within five years from the time of their selection.
• On the recommendation of NITI Aayog, the timeline was extended last year until 2023 due to delays caused by the pandemic.
• According to current Ministry data, the SCM has so far covered over 140 public-private partnerships, 340 smart roads, 78 vibrant public places, 118 smart water projects and over 63 solar projects.

7. What's next?

• The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has begun work to finalise its recommendation for providing ICCCs as a service to states and smaller cities.
• The Ministry aims to finalise an ICCC model and implement a pilot project across Six major states- Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu.

Previous year Question

1. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding Smart India Hackathon 2017? (UPSC 2017) 1. It is a centrally sponsored scheme for developing every city of our country into Smart Cities in a decade. 2. It is an initiative to identify new digital technology innovations for solving the many problems faced by our country. 3. It is a programme aimed at making all the financial transactions in our country completely digital in a decade. Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 1 and 3 only B. 2 only C. 3 only D. 2 and 3 only Answer: B

 

For Prelims & Mains

 

For Prelims: Smart Cities Mission, Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCCs), Greenfield development, Ease of Living Index, Municipal Performance Index, City GDP framework, Climate-smart Cities assessment framework, CCTNS (Crime and Criminal Tracking Networks and Systems), and NITI Aayog. For Mains: 1. What are Smart Cities? Examine their relevance in the urban development of India.(250 Words)

 Source: The Indian Express

 

SWACHH BHARAT 2.0

 

1. Context

Under the SwachhBharatMission-Urban, toilet caretakers have emerged as pivotal figures in transforming urban sanitation. Their roles go beyond simply maintaining cleanliness; they are at the forefront of promoting hygiene, educating communities, and ensuring the proper functioning of sanitation facilities

2. Impacts of Poor Sanitation

• Exposure to contaminated drinking water and food with pathogen-laden human waste is a major cause of diarrhea and can cause cholera, trachoma, intestinal worms, etc, leading to the “stunting” of huge swathes of our children.
• Poor hygiene and waste management practices also impact the environment with untreated sewage flowing directly into water bodies and affecting coastal and marine ecosystems, contaminating soil and air, and exposing millions to disease.
• A study by the World Bank states that the absence of toilets and conventional sanitation costs India 6.4 percent of its GDP in 2006.
• The economic impact of poor sanitation for India is at least $38.5 billion every year under health, education, access time, and tourism.

3. Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM)

• The launch of the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) had a unique goal — to achieve universal sanitation coverage and to make the country Open Defecation Free (ODF).
• By offering financial incentives for building household toilets, as well as community toilets for slums and migrant populations, the government gave a huge fillip to the toilet infrastructure.
• To bring changes to the age-old idea that toilets in the home were unclean, the government ran several programs with the participation of the private sector and NGOs to educate the population on the benefits of ODF in what is acclaimed as one of the largest behavior change programs in the world. From 2014 to 2020, more than 10 crore toilets were constructed. The country declared itself ODF on October 2, 2019.

4. Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0 (SBM 2.0)

The second phase of the project, which commenced in 2020 and is expected to run till 2025, has set even more ambitious targets -sustaining the achievements of phase 1 and Ensuring that treatment of both liquid and solid waste is achieved through the help of technology and private sector engagement.

5. Light House Initiative (LHI)

The Lighthouse Initiative (LHI) commissioned by the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation as part of the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav is to be implemented through PPP, across villages in 75 Gram panchayats in 15 states in Phase 1.

LHI is based on the principle of inclusive sanitation and leaving no one behind.

 

5.1 Aim:

 

LHI aims to effectively implement solid and liquid waste management structures by employing a participatory and consultative approach through mobilization of the village communities, corporates, district and block administration, and gram panchayat officers.

5.2 Significance of Light House Initiative (LHI)

• Joint ownership and accountability between local governments, communities, and corporates will ensure the success of the initiative.
• Managing household and plastic waste as well as wastewater at a village level, defining and implementing solutions to convert waste to achieve a remunerative return not only creates hygienic surroundings for the communities but allows them to become economically self-sufficient in the medium to long term.
• Recovery of precious grey water through minimal treatment and treatment of sewage helps tackle scarce water resources, encouraging reuse and conserving water bodies.

6. India Sanitation Coalition (ISC)

• The India Sanitation Coalition (ISC) is a multi-stakeholder platform that creates meaningful collaborations.
• These stakeholders include the private sector, government, financial institutions, civil society groups, media, donors, etc.
• ISC is recognized as the official intersection between the government and the private sector for engagement in helping build solid and liquid waste management infrastructure sustainably.
• In choosing to partner with ISC on the LHI initiative and the early batch of corporates that have come forward such as ITC, Jindal Steel and Power, JSW, Nayara, HCL, and foundations such as Ambuja Cement, Tata Trusts and Aga Khan Trust, the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation has recognized the benefits of working with the private sector.
• Understanding the on-ground need for solid and liquid waste management infrastructure has included activities such as the construction of soak pits, waste stabilization ponds, drainage channels, compost pits, collection and segregations sheds, and biogas plants as part of the Rs1,40,881 crore that will be provided over the next five years. The private sector will supplement this through CSR funding.

6.1 Management and Technology Expertise

• The ISC will continue to focus on the government’s position on the thematic interlinkages between WASH and sectors such as health, education, gender, nutrition, and livelihoods.
• This will include urban and rural challenges and create viable programs where government funding will be used primarily for infrastructure building and the private sector comes in as a strategic partner providing expertise in management and technology.

For Prelims & Mains

For Prelims: Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0, Light House Initiative (LHI), India Sanitation Coalition (ISC), Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). For Mains:1. What is Swachh Bharat Mission and explain the impact and achievements of the Swachh Bharat Mission-U and AMRUT?

 

Source: The Indian Express

 

INDIAN FISHERIES

 

 

1. Context

 

Strengthening fisheries extension services is essential for supporting fishers and promoting sustainable practices, with initiatives like Matsya Seva Kendras and Sagar Mitras playing key roles

 

2. Indian Fisheries Statistics

 

• India boasts a wide range of fisheries resources that support the livelihoods of nearly three crore fishers and fish farmers. Since 2013-14, the country's fish production has surged by 83%, reaching a record 175 lakh tons in 2022-23, with inland fisheries contributing 75% of the total output.
• As the world's second-largest producer of fish and aquaculture, India faces a critical need to enhance last-mile fisheries and aquaculture extension services.
• Experts emphasize that these services should cater to the specific needs of fishers and fish farmers, offering guidance on the lifecycle of improved cultured species, water quality, disease management, and rearing technologies.
• They should also address challenges faced by seed growers and hatcheries and provide targeted training to encourage sustainable practices and develop fisheries into viable business models

3. Matsya Seva Kendras (MSK)

 

• The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) envisions the establishment of Matsya Seva Kendras (MSKs) as comprehensive centers offering diverse extension services through skilled aquaculture professionals.
• To support women and marginalized groups, the government provides financial assistance covering up to 60% of the setup costs. So far, funds have been allocated to State Governments and Union Territories to operationalize 102 MSKs.
• For instance, the MSK in Thrissur, Kerala, is equipped with advanced laboratories for water, soil, and microbial analysis, enabling disease testing based on specific requests.
• Similarly, the MSKs in Nasik and Sangli districts of Maharashtra focus on training fishers and fish farmers, emphasizing seed and feed inputs, along with the integration of relevant technologies.
• Adopting a "whole of government approach," the Government of India encourages MSKs to collaborate with start-ups, cooperatives, fish farmers’ producer organizations, joint liability groups, and self-help groups.
• These entities are urged to share best practices, including regenerative and conservation strategies, for inland and marine fisheries, keeping in mind the challenges posed by climate change

 

 

4. How do Sagar Mitras support fishers?

 

• An innovative extension initiative by the government involves the appointment of Sagar Mitras in coastal states and Union Territories to serve as a crucial link between the government and marine fishers.
• Their role includes gathering data on daily marine catches, price trends, and marketing requirements at fish landing centers and harbors.
• They also provide fishers with essential information on local regulations, weather updates, natural disaster warnings, hygienic practices for fish handling, and details about potential fishing zones in the seas
• Sagar Mitras, under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), play a crucial role in supporting fishers and fish farmers by acting as a bridge between the fishing community and government authorities

 

How can extension services be improved?   To enhance extension and advisory services in fisheries and aquaculture, a two-pronged approach is essential. Firstly, existing initiatives should be institutionally integrated with the extensive field extension network comprising over 700 Krishi Vigyan Kendras under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, as well as State and Union Territory extension services. Secondly, there is a need to promote digital outreach. The National Fisheries Development Board has launched a nationwide virtual learning platform, ‘AquaBazaar,’ which enables experts to explain fundamental concepts and demonstrate practical techniques related to the breeding and seed production of commercially valuable fish species. In this regard, the World Bank-supported Government of India project is a significant development. It seeks to formalize the fisheries and aquaculture sector by establishing digital work-based identities for all fishers and fish farmers across the country. This initiative aims to strengthen extension services, capacity-building efforts, and awareness campaigns to support the sector effectively

 

 

5. Way Forward

 

Foster seamless collaboration between the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), State and Union Territory extension systems, and private sector stakeholders to create a unified extension framework.

Establish Fisheries-specific KVK units in coastal and inland fishing zones for targeted outreach

 

 

For Prelims: Fisheries, Economic Development   For Mains: GS III - Indian Economy

 

Source: The Hindu

 

INDIAN STATE FOREST REPORT (ISFR)

 

 

1. Context

 

The India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023 shows that the country's Forest and Tree cover now spans 827,357 square kilometers, covering 25.17% of the nation's total land area. 

 

2. Indian State of Forest Report (ISFR)

 

• The Indian State of Forest Report (ISFR) is a biennial publication by the Forest Survey of India (FSI) under the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
• It provides a comprehensive assessment of the forest and tree cover in India, serving as an essential tool for policymakers, environmentalists, and researchers
• Forests are crucial in mitigating climate change by sequestering carbon, supporting biodiversity, and ensuring access to clean air and water.
• Despite mounting environmental challenges, these ecosystems remain vital. In India, encouraging progress has been observed.
• According to the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023, the country's combined Forest and Tree cover extends across 827,357 square kilometers, accounting for 25.17% of the total land area.
• This comprises 715,343 square kilometers (21.76%) of forest cover and 112,014 square kilometers (3.41%) of tree cover. These figures highlight India’s effective efforts to harmonize development with environmental preservation

 

3. Key takeaways from India State of Forest Report (ISFR)

 

• The India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023, released by the Forest Survey of India (FSI), provides a biennial evaluation of the nation's forest resources through satellite imagery and field surveys.
• Since its inception in 1987, this is the 18th edition of the report. The ISFR 2023 reveals notable growth in India’s forest cover, which has expanded from 698,712 km² in 2013 to 715,343 km² in 2023.
• Additionally, fire incidents have shown a decline, with 203,544 fire hotspots reported in 2023-24 compared to 223,333 in 2021-22. Aligning with India's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), the nation has achieved a carbon sink of 30.43 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent, adding 2.29 billion tonnes since 2005.
• This progress brings India closer to its goal of an additional 2.5–3.0 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent by 2030. These advancements underscore India's commitment to sustainable environmental conservation

 

4. Government Schemes and Initiatives to increase forest increase

 

The Forest Survey of India (FSI) has played a crucial role in enhancing forest monitoring through initiatives such as improved forest cover mapping, the establishment of an upgraded Forest Fire Alert System, and the successful completion of the National Forest Inventory's first five-year cycle, which has yielded vital data on forest growth and carbon stocks. Additionally, digitizing forest boundaries in 25 States and Union Territories has significantly enhanced the accuracy of forest cover assessments. These advancements, along with efforts by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change to expand forest and tree cover and conserve mangroves and wetlands, have greatly bolstered forest development.

Key schemes supporting these initiatives include:

• National Mission for a Green India (GIM): Launched in 2014, this mission focuses on protecting, restoring, and expanding forest cover through Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs). Rs. 944.48 crore has been allocated to 17 States and one Union Territory for plantation and eco-restoration projects.
• Nagar Van Yojana (NVY): Introduced in 2020, this program promotes green spaces in urban and peri-urban areas, with 546 projects approved across 31 States/UTs and a budget allocation of Rs. 431.77 crore.
• School Nursery Yojana (SNY): This initiative raises awareness about tree planting in schools. With Rs. 4.80 crore allocated, 743 projects have been sanctioned in 19 States/UTs.
• Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI): Running from 2023 to 2028, this program aims to restore mangroves along India’s coastline, with Rs. 17.96 crore allocated to states like Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Kerala, Odisha, West Bengal, and Puducherry.
• National Coastal Mission: This program includes funding under the "Conservation and Management of Mangroves and Coral Reefs" component to safeguard coastal ecosystems in 9 coastal states and one Union Territory.
• National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA): A collaborative initiative between the Central and State Governments for wetland conservation and management.
• Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam: Launched by the Prime Minister in June 2024, this campaign encourages tree planting in honor of mothers, fostering a cultural connection to nature.
• Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA): This scheme mitigates forest cover loss caused by land diversion for non-forestry purposes under the Forest Conservation Act, 1980.
• Afforestation Targets under the Twenty-Point Programme: Annual afforestation targets are set using resources from Central and State Government schemes, NGOs, private organizations, and civil society.
• Awareness Campaigns and Plantation Drives: Events like Van Mahotsav, World Environment Day, and International Day of Forests encourage mass participation in tree planting and environmental awareness.
• Indian Forest Management Standard: Part of the National Working Plan Code – 2023, this standard provides a framework for monitoring sustainable forest management and supports the Indian Forest and Wood Certification Scheme for small-scale timber producers.
• National Action Plan on Forest Fire-2018: Offers preventive measures, resilience building, and community capacity enhancement for managing forest fires.
• Joint Forest Management and Eco Development Committees: In line with the 1988 National Forest Policy, these committees engage communities in forest and wildlife conservation, ensuring local involvement in sustainable management practices

 

Legal Framework to protect Wildlife   India's forest and wildlife resources are safeguarded and managed under a robust legal framework that promotes conservation and sustainable use. Prominent laws include the Indian Forest Act, 1927; the Forest Conservation Act, 1980; and the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. These laws aim to protect wildlife and their habitats through measures like establishing national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Additionally, State Forest Acts address region-specific forest management, while Tree Preservation Acts and Rules focus on safeguarding trees in both urban and rural settings. The implementation and enforcement of these legal provisions are primarily the responsibility of State Governments and Union Territories, ensuring the effective protection and management of forests and wildlife

 

 

5. Way Forward

 

India is achieving significant progress in advancing environmental sustainability. The 2023 India State of Forest Report highlights notable increases in forest and tree cover, a substantial reduction in fire incidents, and the thriving practice of agroforestry. These accomplishments demonstrate the nation’s commitment to harmonizing development with environmental conservation. By implementing innovative government programs and fostering active participation from local communities, India is not only safeguarding its natural resources but also actively working to restore them. With sustained dedication and collaborative efforts, the country is shaping a greener and healthier future for generations to come

 

For Prelims: Forest Survey of India (FSI), Indian State of Forest Report (ISFR)   For Mains: GS Paper III - Environment and Conservation, Climate Change

 

 

Source: Pib

 

HOUSEHOLD CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE SURVEY (HCES)

 

 

1. Context

 

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) decided to conduct two consecutive surveys on household consumption expenditure during 2022-23 and 2023-24, once situation normalized after the Covid-19 pandemic

 

2. Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (2023-24)

 

• The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) initiated two consecutive surveys on household consumption expenditure for 2022-23 and 2023-24, following the normalization of conditions after the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The first survey, conducted from August 2022 to July 2023, had its summary results published as a factsheet in February 2024, with the detailed report and unit-level data released in June 2024.
• The Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) gathers data on household spending on goods and services, offering insights into economic trends, poverty, inequality, and social exclusion.
• It also updates the basket of goods and weights for the Consumer Price Index. The Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (MPCE) derived from the HCES serves as a crucial indicator for analytical purposes

 

3. Key takeaways from Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) 2023-24

 

• The estimated average Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (MPCE) for 2023-24 in rural and urban India is Rs. 4,122 and Rs. 6,996, respectively, excluding the value of items received for free through social welfare programs. When the imputed value of these free items is considered, the estimates rise to Rs. 4,247 for rural areas and Rs. 7,078 for urban areas.
• In nominal terms, the average MPCE (without imputation) grew by approximately 9% in rural areas and 8% in urban areas compared to 2022-23 levels. The urban-rural MPCE gap has also narrowed, decreasing to 70% in 2023-24 from 71% in 2022-23 and 84% in 2011-12, reflecting consistent consumption growth in rural areas.
• The largest increase in average MPCE from 2022-23 to 2023-24 occurred among the bottom 5-10% of the population in both rural and urban areas. Following the trend from the 2022-23 HCES, non-food items accounted for the majority of household expenditure in 2023-24, comprising about 53% of MPCE in rural areas and 60% in urban areas.
• Within the food category, beverages, refreshments, and processed foods continued to dominate household spending in 2023-24. Non-food expenditure remained concentrated in categories such as conveyance, clothing, bedding, footwear, miscellaneous goods, entertainment, and durable goods. For urban households, rent—including house rent, garage rent, and accommodation charges—accounted for around 7% of non-food expenditure.
• Consumption inequality has decreased in both rural and urban areas. The Gini coefficient for rural areas declined from 0.266 in 2022-23 to 0.237 in 2023-24, while in urban areas, it fell from 0.314 to 0.284 during the same period

 

4. Consumption behaviour in Indian household

 

• Households across all States and Union Territories spend a larger portion of their budget on non-food items, with non-food expenditure accounting for 53% of the average MPCE in rural areas and 60% in urban areas.
• The key areas of non-food spending in 2023-24 include: (i) Conveyance, (ii) clothing, bedding & footwear, (iii) miscellaneous goods & entertainment, and (iv) durable goods. In urban areas, rent makes up around 7% of non-food expenditure.
• As in 2022-23, beverages and processed foods remain the largest contributors to food expenditure in 2023-24, followed by milk and milk products, and vegetables.
• A comparison of the contribution of various item categories to household consumption expenditure in both rural and urban areas for 2022-23 and 2023-24 is provided in Figures 4, 5, 6, and 7

 

 

5. Way Forward

 

The analysis of household consumption expenditure in India for 2023-24 highlights significant trends and shifts in both rural and urban areas. Non-food expenditure continues to dominate, with key contributors being conveyance, clothing, durable goods, and rent in urban areas. The increase in consumption, particularly in rural areas, demonstrates the sustained momentum of economic growth and development. Food expenditure remains largely driven by beverages, processed foods, and dairy products. The decline in consumption inequality, as reflected by the reduction in the Gini coefficient, further indicates positive changes in income distribution. These findings underscore the ongoing progress towards improving the economic well-being of households across India, with particular emphasis on balancing development and consumption patterns in both rural and urban regions

 

For Prelims:  Current events of national and international importance For Mains: General Studies III: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment

 

Source: Pib

 

MARINE HEATWAVES

 

 

 

1. Context

 

A marine heatwave linked to climate change has wiped out nearly 4 million of Alaska's common murre seabirds, marking the largest wildlife mortality event in modern history

 

 

2. About marine heat waves

A marine heat wave is an extreme weather event. It occurs when the surface
temperature of a particular region of the sea rises to 3 or 4 degrees Celsius above the
average temperature for at least five days. MHWs can last for weeks, months or
even years. 

 

The impact of marine heat waves on ocean life

• Marine heatwaves (MHWs) have significant and often devastating impacts on ocean life. Despite seemingly minor temperature increases of 3 or 4 degrees Celsius, these events can have catastrophic consequences for marine ecosystems.
• For example, along the Western Australian coast in the summers of 2010 and 2011, MHWs resulted in devastating fish kills, where large numbers of fish and aquatic animals died suddenly and unexpectedly within a short period and were confined to specific areas.
• Moreover, studies have shown that MHWs can lead to the destruction of kelp forests, which play a crucial role in marine ecosystems by providing habitat and food for many marine animals. The increased water temperatures associated with MHWs are detrimental to kelp, which typically thrive in cooler waters.
• Another significant impact of MHWs is coral bleaching, as seen in the tropical Atlantic and Caribbean in 2005.
• During this event, high ocean temperatures caused more than 80 per cent of surveyed corals to bleach, with over 40 per cent ultimately dying.
• Coral bleaching occurs when corals expel the algae living in their tissues, turning them completely white. This phenomenon severely stresses corals, reducing their reproductive capacity and increasing their vulnerability to fatal diseases.
• Since many marine animals rely on coral reefs for survival, damage to corals threatens their existence as well.
• MHWs also contribute to the growth of invasive alien species, which can disrupt marine food webs.
• Additionally, these events force species to alter their behaviour in ways that increase their risk of harm.
• For instance, MHWs have been linked to incidents of whale entanglements in fishing gear, further highlighting the far-reaching consequences of these heatwaves on marine wildlife.

 

 

3. How do Marine Heat Waves Impact Humans?

• Marine heatwaves (MHWs) not only affect marine life but also have significant impacts on humans.
• As ocean temperatures rise during MHWs, storms such as hurricanes and tropical cyclones can become more intense.
• Warmer temperatures lead to increased evaporation and heat transfer from the oceans to the air.
• Consequently, storms travelling across warm oceans gather more water vapour and heat, resulting in stronger winds, heavier rainfall, and more flooding when these storms make landfall.
• This heightened intensity of storms can lead to devastating consequences for human communities in affected areas.
• Furthermore, coral reefs, which are adversely affected by MHWs, are not only essential for marine wildlife but also for human populations.
• According to NOAA, approximately half a billion people rely on reefs for food, income, and protection. When MHWs destroy coral reefs, these human populations are also significantly impacted, facing disruptions to their food sources, livelihoods, and coastal protection.
• The socio-economic impacts of MHWs extend to coastal communities as well. For instance, an MHW over the northwest Atlantic Ocean in 2012 caused marine species accustomed to warmer waters to migrate northward and alter their migration patterns earlier than usual.
• This shift affected fisheries targeting these species in the United States, resulting in economic losses and disruptions to local communities.
• As global temperatures continue to rise, MHWs are projected to become more frequent, intense, and prolonged, exacerbating their adverse effects on both marine ecosystems and human societies.

 

4. Global warming affecting marine heat waves and oceans

• Global warming, driven by the increase in greenhouse gas emissions, is profoundly affecting marine heatwaves (MHWs) and the overall health of oceans. Studies, including one published in the journal Nature in 2018 titled 'Marine heatwaves under global warming,' reveal alarming trends.
• Over recent decades, MHWs have become longer-lasting, more frequent, and more intense due to soaring global temperatures. Between 1982 and 2016, the study found a doubling in the number of MHW days, with projections indicating a further increase by a significant factor under various warming scenarios.
• Crucially, the study attributes 87 per cent of MHWs to human-induced warming, emphasizing the direct link between anthropogenic activities and the intensification of marine heatwaves. This intensification is exacerbated by the oceans' role in absorbing approximately 90 per cent of the additional heat generated by greenhouse gas emissions since the Industrial Revolution.
• As a result, global mean sea surface temperatures have risen by nearly 0.9 degrees Celsius since 1850, with a notable increase of around 0.6 degrees Celsius over the last four decades alone.
• With global air temperatures on the rise, ocean temperatures are also increasing, leading to the escalation of MHWs. Compounding this issue, the onset of El Nino conditions, characterized by abnormal warming of surface waters in the equatorial Pacific Ocean, is further exacerbating heat extremes.
• Scientists warn that El Nino events are likely to intensify extreme heat events and could potentially break temperature records in various regions worldwide.
• The unprecedented impact of concurrent phenomena such as soaring global air and ocean temperatures, increased MHWs, and record-low Antarctic sea ice levels. The uncertainties regarding the future consequences of these trends, emphasise the urgent need for proactive measures to mitigate the escalating risks posed by climate change on marine ecosystems and human societies.

 

5. The Way Forward

 

Marine heatwaves are a serious threat to both marine ecosystems and human societies. Understanding the causes and consequences of MHWs is crucial for taking proactive measures to address climate change and protect our oceans and ourselves.

 

 

For Prelims: Marine Heatwaves, Coral Reefs, El Nino, Climate Change,  For Mains:  1. Explain the relationship between global warming and the increasing frequency and intensity of  Marine heat waves (MHWs). Assess the potential socio-economic and ecological repercussions of this phenomenon in the Arctic region. (250 words) 2.  Discuss the ethical implications of human activities contributing to Marine heat waves (MHWs) and the disproportionate impact they have on vulnerable coastal communities. (250 words) 3.  Imagine you are heading a national task force responsible for developing a comprehensive strategy to address Marine heat waves (MHWs). Outline your key priorities and action plan, taking into account scientific evidence, public participation, and sustainable solutions. (250 words)

 

Previous Year Questions   1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2022) 1. High clouds primarily reflect solar radiation and cool the surface of the Earth. 2. Low clouds have a high absorption of infrared radiation emanating from the Earth's surface and thus cause a warming effect. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 only          B. 2 only           C. Both 1 and 2            D. Neither 1 nor 2     2. What are the possible limitations of India in mitigating global warming at present and in the immediate future? (UPSC 2010) 1. Appropriate alternate technologies are not sufficiently available. 2. India cannot invest huge funds in research and development. 3. Many developed countries have already set up their polluting industries in India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only            B. 2 only              C. 1 and 3 only                  D. 1, 2 and 3   Answers: 1-D, 2-A

 

 Source: The Indian Express