LINE OF ACTUAL CONTROL (LAC)

The eastern sector which spans Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim,
The middle sector in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, and the western sector in Ladakh
|
- The alignment of the LAC in the eastern sector is along the 1914 McMahon Line, and there are minor disputes about the positions on the ground as per the principle of the high Himalayan watershed
- This pertains to India’s international boundary as well, but for certain areas such as Longju and Asaphila
- The line in the middle sector is the least controversial but for the precise alignment to be followed in the Barahoti plains.
- The major disagreements are in the western sector where the LAC emerged from two letters written by Chinese Prime Minister Zhou Enlai to PM Jawaharlal Nehru in 1959, after he had first mentioned such a ‘line’ in 1956.
- In his letter, Zhou said the LAC consisted of “the so-called McMahon Line in the east and the line up to which each side exercises actual control in the west”
- After the 1962 War, the Chinese claimed they had withdrawn to 20 km behind the LAC of November 1959
- During the Doklam crisis in 2017, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson urged India to abide by the “1959 LAC”
- India rejected the concept of LAC in both 1959 and 1962. Even during the war, Nehru was unequivocal: “There is no sense or meaning in the Chinese offer to withdraw twenty kilometres from what they call ‘line of actual control’
- LAC was discussed during Chinese Premier Li Peng’s 1991 visit to India, where PM P V Narasimha Rao and Li reached an understanding to maintain peace and tranquillity at the LAC.
- India formally accepted the concept of the LAC when Rao paid a return visit to Beijing in 1993 and the two sides signed the Agreement to Maintain Peace and Tranquillity at the LAC
- The reference to the LAC was unqualified to make it clear that it was not referring to the LAC of 1959 or 1962 but to the LAC at the time when the agreement was signed
- To reconcile the differences about some areas, the two countries agreed that the Joint Working Group on the border issue would take up the task of clarifying the alignment of the LAC
The LoC emerged from the 1948 ceasefire line negotiated by the UN after the Kashmir War. It was designated as the LoC in 1972, following the Shimla Agreement between the two countries. It is delineated on a map signed by DGMOs of both armies and has the international sanctity of a legal agreement.
The LAC, in contrast, is only a concept – it is not agreed upon by the two countries, neither delineated on a map or demarcated on the ground.
For Prelims: LAC, LOC For Mains: 1.What is this ‘line of control’? Is this the line China have created by aggression. Comment 2.What we know about the clash between Indian and Chinese soldiers in Arunachal Pradesh |
Previous Year Questions 1.The Line of Actual Control (LAC) separates (Karnataka Civil Police Constable 2020) A.India and Pakistan B.India and Afghanistan C.India and Nepal D.India and China Answer (D) 2.LAC (Line of Actual Control) is an effective border between India and ______. (SSC CHSL 2020) A.Pakistan B.Bhutan C.Sri Lanka D.China Answer (D) |
UNIFORM CIVIL CODE (UCC)
- Underlining that the Uniform Civil Code is “neither necessary nor desirable at this stage”, the 21st Law Commission of India, in 2018, argued for reform of family laws of every religion through amendments and codification of certain aspects so as to make them gender-just
- In its ‘Consultation Paper on Family Law Reforms’, the Law Commission took a stand in favour of “equality ‘within communities’ between men and women” (personal law reform), “rather than ‘equality between’ communities” (UCC)
- According to the 22nd Law Commission Cultural diversity cannot be compromised to the extent that our urge for uniformity itself becomes a reason for threat to the territorial integrity of the nation
- women must be guaranteed their freedom of faith without any compromise on their right to equality
- A UCC would provide for one law for the entire country, applicable to all religious communities, in their personal matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption etc
- Currently, Indian personal law is fairly complex, with each religion adhering to its own specific laws
- Separate laws govern Hindus including Sikhs, Jains and Buddhist, Muslims, Christians, and followers of other religions
- Moreover, there is diversity even within communities. All Hindus of the country are not governed by one law, nor are all Muslims or all Christians
- For instance, in the Northeast, there are more than 200 tribes with their own varied customary laws
- The Constitution itself protects local customs in Nagaland. Similar protections are enjoyed by Meghalaya and Mizoram. Even reformed Hindu law, in spite of codification, protects customary practices
- The exception to this rule is the state of Goa, where all religions have a common law regarding marriages, divorces, and adoption
- Article 44 of the Constitution lays down that the state shall endeavour to secure a UCC for citizens throughout the territory of India
- Article 44 is among the Directive Principles of State Policy. Directive Principles are not enforceable by court, but are supposed to inform and guide governance
- However, in some senses, Article 44 is unique in this manner. While Article 44 uses the words “state shall endeavour”, other Articles in the ‘Directive Principles’ chapter use words such as “in particular strive”; “shall in particular direct its policy”; “shall be obligation of the state
- The phrase “by suitable legislation” is absent in Article 44. All this implies that the duty of the state is greater in other directive principles than in Article 44
For Prelims: Unifrom Civil Code (UCC), DPSP, Fundamental rights, Law Commission
For Mains: 1. What is the Uniform Civil Code? What are the challenges in implementing a Uniform Civil Code in a diverse country like India?
|
Previous Year Questions
Q1. Consider the following provisions under the Directive Principles of State Policy as enshrined in the Constitution of India: (2012)
Which of the above are the Gandhian Principles that are reflected in the Directive Principles of State Policy? (a) 1, 2 and 4 only Answer (b) 2. A legislation that confers on the executive or administrative authority an unguided and uncontrolled discretionary power in the matter of the application of law violates which one of the following Articles of the Constitution of India? Answer (a) Mains 1.Discuss the possible factors that inhibit India from enacting for its citizens a uniform civil code as provided for in the Directive Principles of State Policy. (2015) |
BODY MASS INDEX (BMI)
- Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple and widely used measure to assess whether a person's body weight is appropriate for their height. It is calculated by dividing a person’s weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters (BMI = weight (kg) / height (m²)). This calculation provides a numerical value that helps categorize individuals into different weight ranges, such as underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese.
- The primary purpose of BMI is to serve as a screening tool for identifying potential health risks related to body weight.
- For example, if someone has a BMI that falls into the overweight or obese range, it might indicate a higher risk of conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure. Similarly, a very low BMI can be a sign of malnutrition or other underlying health concerns.
- However, it’s important to note that BMI has limitations. It doesn’t distinguish between muscle and fat, meaning a muscular individual could have a high BMI without excess body fat.
- Likewise, BMI doesn’t account for differences in body composition based on age, gender, or ethnicity. Despite these limitations, BMI remains a valuable and quick tool for public health assessments and individual health evaluations when used alongside other indicators
- The updated classification system distinguishes obesity into two stages: the first, referred to as "innocuous obesity," is characterized by an increase in body fat without any associated organ dysfunction or metabolic issues.
- The second stage, termed "obesity with consequences," involves physical impairments and the presence of obesity-related illnesses. This framework places a particular focus on abdominal fat distribution, which poses significant health risks for Asian Indian populations.
- A major milestone was achieved in 2009 when India adopted revised obesity definitions tailored to Asian Indians. These adjustments recognized that Asian Indians tend to have higher percentages of body fat compared to Western populations and are prone to developing diabetes at lower BMI levels, as noted by Anoop Misra, one of the paper's co-authors.
- The new guidelines introduced lower BMI thresholds, defining overweight as a BMI between 23 and 24.9 kg/m² and obesity as a BMI of 25 kg/m² or higher, in contrast to Western benchmarks of 25 kg/m² for overweight and 30 kg/m² for obesity.
- Additionally, the recommended waist circumference limits were reduced to >90 cm for men and >80 cm for women, compared to Western standards of 102 cm and 88 cm, respectively.
- These revised guidelines not only shaped obesity management practices for South Asians globally but also spurred a wave of research, enhancing the understanding of obesity and its implications for Asian Indian populations
- Research indicates that Indian populations tend to experience higher levels of inflammation and metabolic disturbances at lower BMI levels compared to Western populations. The most effective approach to counter these risks is to adopt regular exercise and a healthy diet early in life.
- The report emphasizes that relying solely on BMI to assess obesity is not a dependable indicator of an individual's health or illness. This approach can lead to misdiagnoses, often resulting in adverse consequences for individuals living with obesity.
- An analysis of data trends from 2005 to 2020, based on the National Family Health Survey, reveals a significant rise in overweight and obesity rates among Indians aged 15 to 49.
- Over this 15-year span, the prevalence of overweight or obesity (BMI ≥25 kg/m²) increased from 12.6% to 24% in women and from 9.3% to 22.9% in men. This means that nearly a quarter of the population in this age group is now classified as either overweight or obese.
- Additionally, the prevalence of obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m²) in both men and women has more than doubled during this period
- Excess body fat increases the risk of high blood pressure (hypertension), elevated cholesterol levels, and heart disease. Obesity contributes to a buildup of plaque in the arteries (atherosclerosis), which can lead to heart attacks and strokes
- Obesity is strongly linked to insulin resistance, a condition where the body’s cells don’t respond effectively to insulin. This can progress to type 2 diabetes, which increases the risk of kidney damage, nerve problems, and vision loss
- Excess fat around the chest and abdomen can make breathing more difficult, leading to conditions like sleep apnea, where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This disrupts sleep and strains the heart
- Carrying extra weight places stress on joints, especially in the knees, hips, and lower back, leading to conditions like osteoarthritis. Obesity can also affect posture and mobility.
- Obesity raises the risk of conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gallstones, and fatty liver disease, which can progress to liver inflammation and cirrhosis.
- n women, obesity can lead to menstrual irregularities, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and difficulties with fertility. In men, it may contribute to reduced testosterone levels and erectile dysfunction
- Obesity is often associated with stigma, low self-esteem, and depression. The psychological toll can lead to emotional eating, creating a cycle of weight gain
- Obesity is linked to a higher risk of developing certain cancers, including breast, colon, liver, kidney, and endometrial cancers. Excess fat can produce hormones and inflammatory chemicals that promote cancer growth
For Prelims: Obseity, Cardiovascular disease
For Mains: GS III - Science & Technology
|
PIEZOELECTRIC EFFECT
- A spark is essentially the movement of an electric charge through the air between two points, one with an excess of electrons and the other with a shortage. This imbalance in electron quantities can arise due to various reasons. Sometimes, it is deliberately created, such as in a battery, which powers everything from remote controls to electric vehicles.
- The point with an excess of electrons is referred to as the negative terminal because electrons carry a negative charge, while the point lacking electrons is called the positive terminal.
- This is why batteries are marked with ‘+’ and ‘-’ signs. In general, electrons, unlike some individuals, are inherently fair and prefer to equalize any imbalance. When given the chance, they move from a region of abundance to one of scarcity.
- This movement of electrons is what creates an electric current when a wire connects the two ends of a battery, enabling devices like fans to rotate or bulbs to illuminate
Natural giant sparks
![]() |
- The piezoelectric effect refers to the property of certain materials to produce an electric charge when subjected to mechanical stress. The term "piezoelectric" originates from the Greek words piezein, meaning "to squeeze or press," and piezo, meaning "push."
- A distinctive feature of the piezoelectric effect is its reversibility. This means that materials capable of generating electricity when mechanical stress is applied (direct piezoelectric effect) can also generate mechanical stress when exposed to an electric field (converse piezoelectric effect).
- When mechanical stress is applied to a piezoelectric material, it causes a displacement of the material's positive and negative charge centers, leading to the creation of an external electric field. Conversely, when an external electric field is applied, it can cause the material to either stretch or compress.
- The piezoelectric effect has numerous applications, including sound production and detection, generation of high voltages, electronic frequency generation, microbalances, and precise focusing of optical instruments.
- It is also fundamental to scientific techniques like scanning probe microscopy (e.g., STM, AFM), which provide atomic-level resolution. Beyond scientific uses, the piezoelectric effect is applied in everyday devices, such as serving as the ignition mechanism in cigarette lighters
For Prelims: Electrons, Protons, Nuetrinos
For Mains: GS III - Science & Technology
|
OPEC+
1. Context
US President Donald Trump has asked the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries to cut the prices of oil, arguing that it would stop the Russia-Ukraine war.
2. Introduction
- The organization of petroleum exporting countries (OPEC) is a permanent, intergovernmental organization, created at the Baghdad conference in 1960, by Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela. OPEC now has 13 member states. Iran, Iraq, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Libya, Nigeria, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, the Republic of Congo, Angola, and Venezuela are members of OPEC.
- It aims to manage the supply of oil to set the price of oil in the world market, to avoid fluctuations that might affect the economies of both producing and purchasing countries. The stated mission of the organization is to “coordinate and unify the petroleum policies of its member’s countries and ensure the stabilization of oil markets, to secure an efficient, economic and regular supply of petroleum to consumers, a steady income to producers, and a fair return on capital for those investing in the petroleum industry.”
- The headquarters are in Vienna, Austria. OPEC membership is open to any country that is a substantial exporter of oil and which shares the ideals of the organization.
- Former OPEC members are Ecuador, Indonesia, and Qatar. Qatar terminated its membership on 1 January 2019.
- With the addition of another 11 allied major oil-producing countries that include Russia, the grouping is known as OPEC+.
OPEC+ is an amalgamation of OPEC and high oil-exporting non-OPEC nations like Russia and Kazakhstan. In other words, it refers to OPEC’s cooperation with non-OPEC oil producers to affect production cuts. It came into effect around 2016 and includes countries like Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Brunei, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Mexico, Oman, Russia, South Sudan, and Sudan. |
3. Reasons for slashing production
- Today’s cut is the biggest of its kind since 2000 when OPEC+ members cut outputs by 10 million BPD during the covid-19 pandemic, The reduction would increase prices and be extremely beneficial for the Middle Eastern member states, to whom Europe has turned for oil after leveling sanctions against Russia since it invaded Ukraine.
- Oil prices increased after Russia invades Ukraine in February, and have since begun to soften over the past few months, before dropping sharply to under $90 in September due to fears of a recession in Europe and reduced demands from China because of its lockdown measures.
4. Who opposes this decision?
- Within the group, some are opposed to such significant cuts in oil production. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Kuwait, in particular, are said to be concerned that extended cuts would interfere with their plans to increase oil output capacity.
- Slashes in reduction and subsequently increased oil prices can be a potential threat to the US because the US government is trying to reduce the inflation rates before the mid-term elections in November. The US has not publicly accepted these attempts.
India decision-makers suggestions for the uncertain future of the international petroleum market:
- It should fill the oil caverns with strategic reserves. Prices may fall further but rather than bottom fish, it should leverage the availability of capacity to secure discounted supplies.
- Gas is economically competitive these days. It should increase its imports of gas (LNG) from Australia, Africa, and the US. This will reduce the political risks of dependency on oil supplies from the Middle East.
- It should create an institutional basis for an integrated energy policy. If there is one message we must internalize from COVID, it is the importance of collaboration and coordination.
5. India's strategic petroleum reserves
- India’s strategic reserves are the effort of a border plan to build an emergency stockpile with millions of barrels of crude oil.
- Under the first stage of the strategic petroleum reserves project, underground rock caverns with a total storage of 5.33 MMT, or about 38 million barrels of crude oil, have been commissioned at three locations-
- Vishakapatnam (1.33 MMT)
- Mangalore (1.5MMT)
- Karnataka (2.5 MMT)
- The International Energy Agency (IEA) recommends that all countries hold crude oil stocks worth 90 days of imports. India imports about 85 percent of its crude oil requirements.
- India decided to release 5 million barrels of oil from its strategic reserves as part of a coordinated challenge led by the US against the OPEC+ producer's cartel move to curb output, was the first time that New Delhi dipped into its reserves to leverage it's as a geopolitical tool.
6. International energy agency(IEA)
- The international energy agency (IEA) is an autonomous organization that works to ensure reliable, affordable, and clean energy, it was established in the wake of the 1973 (set up in 1974) Oil crisis after the OPEC cartel had shocked the world with a steep increase in oil prices.
- It is headquartered in Paris, France.
The IEA has four main areas of focus, they are
- Energy security
- Economic development
- Environmental awareness
- Engagement worldwide.
India became an associate member of the International Energy Agency in 2017.
For Prelims and Mains
For Prelims: The international energy agency (IEA), OPEC, OPEC+,
For Mains: 1.What are OPEC and OPEC+?Explain why OPEC+ is slashing production and how it affects the major developing countries. (250 words)
|
source: The Indian Express
WETLANDS
1. Context
2. About Wetlands
A wetland is a land area that is saturated with water, either permanently or seasonally, and supports a distinct ecosystem of plants and animals adapted to wet conditions. Wetlands are found all over the world, from the tropics to the Arctic, and they come in a variety of forms, including marshes, swamps, bogs, and fens.
2.1. Importance of Wetlands
- Wetlands are some of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on Earth. They provide habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species, many of which are specially adapted to these waterlogged environments. They serve as breeding grounds and nurseries for numerous aquatic and terrestrial species.
- Wetlands act as natural water filters. They can remove excess nutrients, pollutants, and sediment from water, improving water quality and helping to purify drinking water sources. This filtration function is critical for maintaining clean and healthy ecosystems.
- Wetlands act as natural sponges, absorbing excess rainfall and reducing the risk of flooding. They store water during periods of heavy rainfall and gradually release it, helping to control downstream flooding and erosion.
- Wetlands store and sequester significant amounts of carbon, which can help mitigate climate change. They also play a role in regulating local and regional climate patterns by influencing temperature and humidity.
- Wetlands are often valued for their aesthetic beauty and recreational opportunities. People visit wetlands for activities like birdwatching, fishing, and nature appreciation. This can support local economies through tourism and outdoor recreation.
- Many indigenous and local communities have deep cultural and traditional connections to wetlands. These ecosystems hold spiritual and cultural significance, and they often provide resources for traditional practices and livelihoods.
- Wetlands offer unique opportunities for scientific research and education. They help us better understand ecosystem dynamics, species interactions, and environmental processes.
- Wetlands can provide economic benefits through activities like fishing, agriculture, and forestry. They can also act as natural infrastructure for storm protection, reducing the economic costs of disasters.
- Many species, including endangered and threatened ones, rely on wetlands for their survival. By conserving wetland ecosystems, we can protect these species and their habitats.
2.2. Types of Wetlands
Wetlands come in various types, each with its unique characteristics and ecological functions. Some of the primary wetland types include:
- Swamps are forested wetlands dominated by trees and woody shrubs. They often occur in areas with slow-moving or standing water. Swamps are important for providing habitat to numerous bird and amphibian species. They can be freshwater or saltwater, depending on their location.
- Marshes are herbaceous wetlands dominated by grasses, reeds, sedges, and other non-woody plants. They are typically found near the edges of lakes, rivers, and coastlines. Marshes are vital for water purification and provide habitat for a wide range of wildlife, including birds, amphibians, and insects. They can be freshwater, brackish, or saltwater.
- Bogs are acidic wetlands characterized by waterlogged, spongy ground and a distinctive peat layer. They tend to be low in nutrients and are often fed by rainwater. Bogs support unique plant communities, including sphagnum mosses and carnivorous plants. They are important for carbon storage and can be sources of groundwater recharge.
- Fens are similar to bogs but have alkaline or mineral-rich water sources. They typically have a higher nutrient content and support different plant species. Fens are essential for water filtration and can be important for maintaining water quality in certain regions.
- Vernal Pools are temporary or seasonal wetlands that often appear in the spring and dry up during the summer or fall. They provide breeding habitats for amphibians and invertebrates. Because they are ephemeral, vernal pools are not always wetlands in the traditional sense, but they serve important ecological functions.
- Tidal Wetlands are influenced by the ebb and flow of ocean tides. They include salt marshes and mangrove swamps. These wetlands are important for shoreline stabilization, habitat for numerous marine species, and protection against coastal erosion and storm surges.
- Freshwater Wetlands are found in various settings, including along rivers, lakes, ponds, and in the interior of continents. They are essential for water purification, flood control, and providing habitat for numerous species.
- Saltwater Wetlands such as salt marshes and mangroves, occur in coastal areas and estuaries where saltwater from the ocean mixes with freshwater from rivers. They are vital for coastal protection, as well as supporting a range of marine life.
- Estuarine Wetlands are transitional zones where freshwater rivers and saltwater bodies meet, creating a unique mix of conditions. They are important for supporting diverse and specialized species, acting as nurseries for fish and providing food and habitat for numerous wildlife species.
2.3. Threats to Wetlands
Wetlands, despite their ecological importance, face numerous threats that can lead to their degradation or loss. Some of the primary threats to wetlands include:
- One of the most significant threats to wetlands is urban and industrial development. Construction of roads, buildings, and infrastructure often involves draining or filling wetlands, leading to their destruction. Urbanization can also introduce pollution and increased runoff, degrading water quality.
- Agriculture, including the drainage of wetlands for crop cultivation or livestock grazing, can lead to the loss of wetland habitats. The use of fertilizers and pesticides in agricultural areas can also result in pollution of wetlands.
- Pollution from various sources, including urban, industrial, and agricultural runoff, can contaminate wetland water, affecting the health of aquatic life and undermining the water purification function of wetlands.
- Altering the natural flow of water, such as through dam construction, water diversion for irrigation, or urban drainage systems, can disrupt the natural hydrology of wetlands. Changes in water levels can negatively impact the plants and wildlife that rely on these ecosystems.
- The introduction of non-native or invasive species can threaten wetland ecosystems. Invasive plants, in particular, can outcompete native species and alter the wetland's natural composition and functions.
- Climate change can lead to rising sea levels and increased temperatures, affecting coastal and freshwater wetlands. Altered precipitation patterns can also impact wetland hydrology. Climate-related factors can lead to shifts in wetland ecosystems and can exacerbate other threats.
- Excessive water extraction from wetland areas, often for agricultural or industrial use, can lead to the depletion of wetland resources and the drying up of these habitats.
- Conversion of wetlands into other land uses, such as residential or commercial developments, can result in the loss of wetland ecosystems. This often involves drainage and filling activities.
- Large infrastructure projects like road construction, mining, and the development of hydropower facilities can disrupt or destroy wetlands. Dams, in particular, can alter water flow and reduce wetland habitat.
- Fragmentation of wetlands due to human activities can isolate populations of plants and wildlife, making it challenging for species to move and maintain genetic diversity.
- Dredging and channelization of water bodies for navigation and flood control can modify natural watercourses and negatively impact wetland ecosystems.
- Practices such as overgrazing, deforestation, and soil erosion can result in sedimentation and nutrient runoff into wetlands, degrading their water quality.
3. The Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar Convention)
- The Convention on Wetlands, commonly known as the Ramsar Convention, is an international treaty dedicated to the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands.
- It is named after the city of Ramsar in Iran, where the convention was adopted on February 2, 1971, and officially entered into force on December 21, 1975.
- The Ramsar Convention is the only global environmental treaty that focuses on a single ecosystem type, specifically wetlands.
3.1. Key aspects of the Ramsar Convention include
- The primary mission of the Ramsar Convention is to ensure the conservation and wise use of wetlands around the world.
- The term "wise use" in the context of the convention refers to the sustainable use of wetlands to maintain their ecological character and provide for the well-being of human communities that depend on them.
- Parties to the convention designate wetlands within their territories as "Wetlands of International Importance," often referred to as Ramsar Sites. These sites are recognized for their significance in terms of biodiversity, water resources, and human well-being.
- The Ramsar Convention emphasizes the importance of conserving wetlands in a manner that maintains the ecological character of the site and provides benefits for both nature and people.
- The convention recognizes a wide range of wetland types, including lakes, rivers, marshes, peatlands, and coastal areas. It encompasses both freshwater and saltwater wetlands.
- The Ramsar Convention promotes international cooperation and information sharing related to wetland conservation and management. It encourages countries to work together on transboundary wetland issues.
- The convention supports capacity building, scientific research, and public education to raise awareness about the value of wetlands.
- As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, there were over 170 countries that were parties to the Ramsar Convention. These countries commit to implementing the convention's principles within their territories.
- February 2nd of each year is celebrated as World Wetlands Day to raise awareness about the importance of wetlands and the need for their conservation.
4. About Ramsar Sites
To be designated as a Ramsar Site, a wetland must meet one or more of the following criteria:
- It supports vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered species or threatened ecological communities.
- It plays a significant role in the conservation of biological diversity.
- It provides habitat for a substantial number of waterbirds, including migratory species.
- It supports fishery resources that are of critical importance to human communities.
- It has significant hydrological value in controlling flooding, recharging groundwater, or regulating water flow.
- It contributes to the maintenance of traditional cultural practices, livelihoods, and sustainable land use.
4.1. Importance of Being a Ramsar Site
- Designation as a Ramsar Site confers international recognition of the wetland's ecological and cultural importance. It places the site on a global platform, highlighting its significance.
- Ramsar Sites receive increased attention and support for their conservation. This often leads to improved protection measures and management practices to safeguard the ecological character of the wetland.
- Many Ramsar Sites are vital for the conservation of rare and endangered species. Protecting these areas helps ensure the survival of these species and maintains the overall biodiversity of the region.
- Ramsar Sites provide essential ecosystem services, such as water purification, flood control, and water storage. These services benefit both the environment and human communities, making them crucial for sustainable development.
- Designated Ramsar Sites often become focal points for scientific research and monitoring. They contribute to our understanding of wetland ecosystems and their functioning.
- Ramsar Sites can attract eco-tourism, providing opportunities for recreation, research, and environmental education. They can serve as platforms for raising awareness about wetland conservation.
- Being a Ramsar Site promotes international cooperation and collaboration, as many wetlands are transboundary in nature. Neighbouring countries often work together to manage and protect these shared resources.
- Many Ramsar Sites have cultural and traditional significance for local communities. Recognition under the convention can support the continuation of cultural practices and livelihoods.
5. About the National Wetland Inventory and Assessment (NWIA)
The National Wetland Inventory and Assessment (NWIA) is a comprehensive program initiated by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) in India to map, classify, and assess the wetlands of the country. The primary objective of the NWIA is to generate a reliable database of wetlands, understand their distribution and characteristics, and assess their ecological status and conservation needs.
5.1. The NWIA is implemented in two phases
National Wetland Inventory (NWI)
The NWI involves the mapping and classification of wetlands using satellite imagery and ground-truthing surveys. The NWI aims to identify and delineate the extent of wetlands, classify them into different types based on their hydrological, ecological, and geomorphological characteristics, and create a spatial database of wetlands.
National Wetland Assessment (NWA)
- The NWA involves the assessment of the ecological status and conservation needs of wetlands.
- The NWA aims to evaluate the ecological health of wetlands, identify threats and pressures affecting them, and prioritize wetlands for conservation and management interventions.
- The NWIA provides a valuable tool for wetland conservation and management in India.
- It helps in understanding the distribution and status of wetlands, identifying priority areas for conservation, and informing policy and decision-making related to wetland management.
- The NWIA also contributes to raising awareness about the importance of wetlands and their role in maintaining ecological balance and providing ecosystem services.
5.2. The key benefits of the NWIA
- The NWIA provides a comprehensive database of wetlands, including their location, extent, type, and ecological characteristics. This information is essential for understanding the distribution and diversity of wetlands in India.
- The NWA evaluates the ecological health of wetlands and identifies threats and pressures affecting them. This information helps in prioritizing wetlands for conservation and management interventions.
- The NWIA provides scientific data and information to support policy and decision-making related to wetland conservation and management. This includes identifying priority areas for conservation, developing management plans, and implementing conservation measures.
- The NWIA contributes to raising awareness about the importance of wetlands and their role in providing ecosystem services, such as water purification, flood control, and biodiversity conservation.
- The NWIA aligns with international efforts to conserve wetlands, such as the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. It provides data and information that can be shared with the international community to support global wetland conservation initiatives.
For Prelims: Dhanauri Wetland, Wetlands, Ramsar Convention, Ramsar Sites, National Wetland Inventory and Assessment, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, National Green Tribunal,
For Mains:
1. Explain the cultural and traditional connections that many indigenous and local communities have with wetlands. How can the preservation of these cultural ties support wetland conservation and management? (250 Words)
2. Explain the ecological significance of wetlands and their role in supporting biodiversity. How can the conservation of wetlands benefit both the environment and human communities? (250 Words)
|
Previous Year Questions
Prelims
1. Consider the following Questions: (UPSC 2019)
1. Under Ramsar Convention, it is mandatory on the part of the Government of India to protect and conserve all the wetlands in the territory of India
2. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 were framed by the Government of India based in the recommendation of Ramsar Convention
3. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 also encompasses the drainage area or catchment regions of the wetlands as determined by the authority
Which of the Statements given above is/ are correct
A. 1 and 2
B. 2 and 3
C. 3 Only
D. 1, 2, 3
Answer: C
2. How is the National Green Tribunal (NGT) different from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)? (UPSC 2018)
1. The NGT has been established by an Act whereas the CPCB has been created by the executive order of the Government.
2. The NGT provides environmental justice and helps reduce the burden of litigation in the higher courts whereas the CPCB promotes cleanliness of streams and wells, and aims to improve the quality of air in the country.
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
Answer: B
3. The National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 was enacted in consonance with which of the following provisions of the Constitution of India? (UPSC 2012)
1. Right of a healthy environment, construed as a part of the Right to life under Article 21
2. Provision of grants for raising the level of administration in the Scheduled Areas for the welfare of Scheduled Tribes under Article 275(1)
3. Powers and functions of Gram Sabha as mentioned under Article 243(A)
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
4. With reference to the wetlands of India, consider the following statements: (UPSC CSE 2012)
1. The country's total geographical area under the category of wetlands is recorded more in Gujarat as compared to other States.
2. In India, the total geographical area of coastal wetlands is larger than that of inland wetlands. 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
Answer: A
5. Which of the following National Parks is unique in being a swamp with floating vegetation that supports a rich biodiversity? (UPSC 2015) A. Bhitarkanika National Park B. Keibul Lamjao National Park C. Keoladeo Ghana National Park D. Sultanpur National park Answer: B 6. Which one of the following is an artificial lake? (UPSC 2018) (a) Kodaikanal (Tamil Nadu) (b) Kolleru (Andhra Pradesh) (c) Nainital (Uttarakhand) (d) Renuka (Himachal Pradesh) Answer: A 7. If you want to see gharials in their natural habitat, which one of the following is the best place to visit?(UPSC 2017) A. Bhitarkanika Mangroves B. Chambal River C. Pulicat Lake D. Deepor Beel Answer: B 8. If a wetland of international importance is brought under the ‘Montreux Record’, what does it imply? (UPSC 2014) A. Changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur in the wetland as a result of human interference. B. The country in which the wetland is located should enact a law to prohibit any human activity within five kilometers from the edge of the wetland C. The survival of the wetland depends on the cultural practices and traditions of certain communities living in its vicinity and therefore the cultural diversity therein should not be destroyed. D. It is given the status of ‘World Heritage Site’ Answer: A Mains 1. What is wetland? Explain the Ramsar concept of ‘wise use’ in the context of wetland conservation. Cite two examples of Ramsar sites from India. (150 words, 10 marks) (UPSC Mains-2018)
|