KUKI-ZOMI TRIBE
The Kuki-Zomi people are a diverse group of ethnicities inhabiting the mountainous regions of Northeast India, Myanmar, and Bangladesh. They share a common ancestry and cultural heritage, and their name reflects this shared identity: "Kuki" is a more general term encompassing various sub-tribes, while "Zomi" is a relatively recent term adopted by some Kuki communities to emphasize their distinct identity and cultural heritage.
- The exact origins of the Kuki-Zomi people remain unclear, but linguistic evidence suggests they migrated from Southeast Asia centuries ago. Today, they are found primarily in the Indian states of Manipur, Mizoram, Assam, Nagaland, and Tripura, as well as in Chin State, Myanmar, and the Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh.
- The Kuki-Zomi people comprise numerous sub-tribes, each with its own distinct dialect and cultural practices. Some of the major sub-tribes include the Hmar, Thadou, Paite, Gangte, Vaiphei, Zou, Aimol, and Anal. These sub-tribes speak various Kuki-Chin languages, which belong to the Tibeto-Burman language family.
- The Kuki-Zomi people have a rich and vibrant culture characterized by strong communal bonds, traditional music and dance, and colorful handicrafts. Their traditional attire is often adorned with intricate beadwork and embroidery, reflecting their artistic skills and cultural pride.
- The Kuki-Zomi people have faced various challenges throughout their history, including displacement, conflict, and marginalization. However, they have demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability, preserving their unique culture and traditions despite these hardships.
- In recent years, the Kuki-Zomi people have made significant strides in education, entrepreneurship, and political representation. They are increasingly active in advocating for their rights and cultural identity, and their contributions to the social and economic development of the regions they inhabit are becoming increasingly recognized.
3. Delisting Proposal in Manipur
- The representation calling for the potential removal of specific Kuki and Zomi tribes from the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list in Manipur stems from the ongoing ethnic conflict that has persisted for eight months.
- This conflict, initiated on May 3, 2023, arose following an order from the Manipur High Court directing the State government to recommend the inclusion of Meiteis in the ST list to the Centre.
- As the Centre now requests the State government to examine the representation for the delisting of Kuki and Zomi tribes, there is a risk of exacerbating existing tensions between the valley-based Meitei people and the hills-based Kuki-Zo (ST) people in the State.
- One significant factor driving the Meiteis' demand for ST status is their inability to own land in the forested hill districts, where only STs are permitted to own land.
- Notably, this marks the first instance where members of the Meitei community are advocating for their inclusion in the ST list by contending that specific Kuki and Zomi tribes should not be part of it.
- This development may also have broader implications for the criteria used to designate groups as Scheduled Tribes, a framework that has remained unchanged since its introduction by the Lokur Commission in 1965.
Key Arguments in the Kuki-Zomi Delisting Proposal
- In Mr. Thounaojam’s representation, objections have been raised against the inclusion of three specific entries in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list of Manipur namely, “Any Mizo(Lushai) Tribes,” “Zou,” and “Any Kuki Tribes.”
- The primary argument put forth for the exclusion of these entries is that they are not considered "indigenous" to the land of Manipur.
- According to the representation, there is no historical mention of these specific tribes residing in Manipur in pre-Independence Censuses.
- Furthermore, the representation contends that the vagueness surrounding the terms "Any Mizo (Lushai) Tribes" and "Any Kuki Tribes" in the ST list has purportedly facilitated illegal immigrants from Myanmar and Bangladesh in wrongfully obtaining benefits intended for Scheduled Tribes in India.
The Lokur Commission, officially known as the Advisory Committee on the Revision of Lists of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, played a significant role in shaping the landscape of tribal communities in India. Established in 1965 by the Government of India. Chaired by Justice N.N. Lokur, a former Chief Justice of India. Tasked with revising the lists of Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in a rational and scientific manner.
Criteria for Scheduled Tribes:
- The Commission established five key criteria for identifying a community as an ST:
- Primitive Traits and Distinctive Culture
- Geographical Isolation
- Shyness of Contact with the Community at Large
- Backwardness
- Pre-dominantly Tribal Population
Impact on Tribal Communities
- The Lokur Commission's recommendations led to the addition of several new communities to the ST list, granting them access to educational and economic benefits reserved for STs.
- However, the criteria employed, particularly the emphasis on "primitive traits," have been criticized for being outdated, stereotypical, and potentially hindering social progress for tribal communities.
Criticisms and Debates
- The Commission's classification of certain communities as "primitive" has been challenged for being derogatory and inaccurate.
- The criteria used have been accused of being subjective and open to misinterpretation, leading to inconsistencies and exclusion of deserving communities.
- Debates continue regarding the need for revising or even abolishing the existing criteria altogether, with calls for a more nuanced approach based on social, economic, and cultural factors.
Legacy
- Despite the criticisms, the Lokur Commission's work remains influential in the administration of tribal affairs in India.
- Its report and recommendations form the basis for the current ST list and continue to be referenced in discussions about tribal inclusion and development.
- The Commission's legacy highlights the importance of ongoing discussions about the definition of "tribal" identity and the need for criteria that are fair, inclusive, and responsive to the evolving realities of tribal communities in India.
The National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) stands as a crucial advocate for the rights and welfare of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in India. Established in 1993 and elevated to constitutional status in 2018, the NCBC plays a multi-faceted role in ensuring social justice and equality for OBC communities.
Mandate and Responsibilities
- The NCBC probes cases of discrimination and denial of rights due to OBC status. It monitors the implementation of various government policies and schemes aimed at OBC development.
- The Commission regularly assesses the social, educational, and economic advancement of OBCs. It provides recommendations to the government on policies and programs to bridge existing gaps and address emerging challenges.
- Individuals from OBC communities can approach the NCBC with complaints related to violations of their rights or benefits. The Commission takes necessary action to address these grievances and ensure justice.
- The NCBC conducts research on the diverse OBC communities, analyzing their specific needs and vulnerabilities. It promotes awareness about OBC issues and advocates for their inclusive participation in various spheres of Indian society.
Key Achievements
- The NCBC played a significant role in implementing the Right to Education Act (2009) and ensuring reservation quotas for OBC students in educational institutions.
- The Commission has been instrumental in promoting entrepreneurship and skill development programs among OBC communities, leading to greater economic participation and self-reliance.
- The NCBC has consistently pushed for legislation and policy changes that benefit OBCs, such as reservations in government jobs and promotions, access to healthcare, and land rights.
Challenges and Future Directions
- OBCs are a diverse group with varying needs and levels of marginalization. The NCBC faces the challenge of addressing these internal disparities and ensuring inclusivity within its advocacy efforts.
- The Commission often operates with limited resources, hindering its ability to effectively reach out to remote OBC communities and conduct comprehensive research.
- Ensuring proper implementation of the NCBC's recommendations on the ground remains a crucial challenge. Stronger collaboration with state governments and local authorities is essential.
6. Examining Claims of Non-Indigeneity and Misuse
|
For Prelims: kuki-zomi tribes, manipur, National Commission for Backward classes, STs, Lokur Commission, Other Backward Classes
For Mains:
1. Discuss the potential political and developmental implications of the proposed delisting. How might it affect land rights, access to resources, and inter-community relations in Manipur? (250 Words)
2. Assess the role of the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) in addressing the complexities of tribal identity and ensuring social justice for marginalized communities. How can the NCBC be strengthened to better address issues like the Kuki-Zomi delisting proposal? (250 Words)
|
|
Previous Year Questions
1. Who was appointed as the head of the OBC Sub-categorisation Commission?
(Maharashtra Talathi 2019)
A. Justice Geeta Mittal
B. Justice Manjula Chellur
C. Justice Tahilramani
D. Justice G. Rohini
2. Which of the following pairs of list and contents is/are correctly matched? (UPSC CAPF 2019)
1. State list Public health and sanitation
2. Union list Citizenship, naturalisation and aliens
3. Concurrent list Legal, medical and other
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 only B. 1, 2 and 3 C. 2 and 3 only D. 3 only
Answers:1-D, 2- B
|
LOW EARTH ORBIT (LEO)
Low Earth Orbit (LEO) is an orbit around Earth with an altitude of 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) or less. It is the most common type of orbit for artificial satellites, and it is used for a variety of purposes, including:
- Earth observation: LEO satellites can provide high-resolution images of the Earth's surface, which can be used for a variety of purposes, such as monitoring environmental change, tracking weather patterns, and providing military intelligence.
- Communication: LEO satellites can be used to relay communications signals between different parts of the Earth. This is especially useful in remote areas that are not served by terrestrial communications infrastructure.
- Navigation: LEO satellites are used by the Global Positioning System (GPS) to provide accurate positioning information to users on the ground.
- Scientific research: LEO satellites can be used to conduct a variety of scientific experiments, such as studying the Earth's atmosphere, the Sun, and the stars.
- Shorter orbital periods: Satellites in LEO have shorter orbital periods than satellites in higher orbits. This means that they can transmit data to Earth more quickly.
- Lower communication latency: The lower orbital period of LEO satellites also means that there is lower communication latency, which is the time it takes for a signal to travel from the satellite to Earth.
- Closer to Earth: LEO satellites are closer to Earth than satellites in higher orbits. This means that they can be serviced more easily, and they are less likely to be affected by space debris.
DS-SAR stands for Dual-Speed Synthetic Aperture Radar. It is a Singaporean SAR Earth Observation satellite that was launched into orbit on July 30, 2023.
The satellite was developed and built by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) for the Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) of Singapore.
DS-SAR is a dual-frequency SAR satellite, meaning that it can operate at two different radar frequencies: C-band and L-band.
This allows the satellite to produce images with different characteristics, depending on the frequency used. For example, C-band images are typically better at resolving fine details, while L-band images are better at penetrating clouds and other obscurants.
6.Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)
The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) is an expendable launch vehicle developed and operated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
It is a three-stage, solid-and-liquid-fueled rocket that is capable of launching satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Sun-synchronous orbits, and Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO)
The PSLV has been used to launch a wide variety of satellites, including Earth observation satellites, communication satellites, and scientific satellites.
It has also been used to launch commercial satellites for customers around the world
7.Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV)
The GSLV is an expendable launch vehicle developed and operated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
It is a three-stage, liquid-fueled rocket that is capable of launching satellites into geosynchronous transfer orbit (GTO)
The GSLV was first launched in 2001, and has since been used to launch a variety of satellites, including communication satellites, weather satellites, and scientific satellites
|
For Prelims: Low Earth Orbit (LEO), PSLV, GSLV
For Mains: 1.Discuss the significance of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) in India's space program. Highlight its features and capabilities that have made it a reliable and preferred launch vehicle for both domestic and international satellite missions
2.GSLV (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle) is a crucial component of India's space endeavors. Elaborate on its design, stages, and payload capacity. Compare and contrast GSLV with PSLV in terms of their applications and advantages
|
|
Previous Year Questions
1.A low earth orbit satellite can provide large signal strength at an earth station because: (ESE Electronics 2011)
A. Path loss is low
B. These orbits are immune to noise
C. Large solar power can be generated at these orbits
D. Lower microwave frequencies in s-band can be used
Answer-A
|
PMAY- URBAN
1. Context
2. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban
- The government had launched the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) on June 25, 2015, to provide pucca houses to all eligible beneficiaries by 2022.
- Launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation (MoHUPA) in Mission Mode.
- The PMAY-U is one of the two schemes envisioned under the PMAY-U.
- It is focused on the urban areas, while the other one PMAY-G is for rural areas.
- The scheme has four verticals “In-situ” Slum Redevelopment (ISSR); Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS); Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP) and Beneficiary-led individual house construction/enhancements (BLC).
3. Target Beneficiaries
- The mission seeks to address the housing requirement of the urban poor including slum dwellers.
- A slum is defined as a compact area of at least 300 people or about 60 – 70 households of poorly built congested tenements in an unhygienic environment usually with inadequate infrastructure and lacking in proper sanitary and drinking water facilities.
- Beneficiaries include an Economically weaker section (EWS), low-income groups (LIGs), and Middle-Income Groups (MIGs).
- The annual income cap is up to Rs 3 lakh for EWS, Rs 3-6 lakhs for LIG, and Rs 6 + -18 lakhs for MIG.
- EWS category of beneficiaries is eligible for assistance in all four verticals of the Missions whereas LIG and MIG categories are eligible under only Credit linked subsidy scheme (CLSS) component of the Mission.
- For identification as an EWS or LIG beneficiary under the scheme, an individual loan applicant will submit a self-certificate/ affidavit as proof of income.
- A beneficiary family will comprise a husband, wife, unmarried sons, and/or unmarried daughters.
- The beneficiary family should not own a pucca house either in his/her name or in the name of any member of his/her family in any part of India to be eligible to receive central assistance under the mission.
- States/UTs, at their discretion, may decide a cut-off date on which beneficiaries need to be residents of that urban area for being eligible to take benefits under the scheme.
4. PMAY (U) Features
5. How many houses have been built?
- As per information available on the PMAY-U, 1.21 crore houses have been sanctioned under the scheme till May 9, 2022, of which 58.82 lakh houses have been completed/delivered.
- A maximum number of 28.17 lakh houses have been built under the BLC vertical.
- The remaining 30.65 lakh houses have been built under the other three verticals ISSR, CLSS, and AHP.
6. How much money has been spent on the PMAY-U?
7. Components of PMAY-U
8. What is the Beneficiary-led individual house construction/enhancements (BLC)?
- Under the BLC vertical, a beneficiary receives a financial assistance of Rs 2.5 lakh from the government to build his or her house. The PMAY-U guidelines define a beneficiary family as a family comprising of “husband, wife and unmarried.
- The beneficiary family should not own a pucca house (an all-weather dwelling unit) either in his/her name or in the name of any member of his/her family in any part of India,” state the scheme guidelines.
- Under the scheme guidelines, an adult earning member (irrespective of marital status) can be treated as a separate household.
- However, to avail of the scheme, he or she should not own a pucca house (an all-weather dwelling unit) in his /her name in any part of India.
- Under the PMAY-G, a beneficiary can avail of the BLC component for the enhancement of his or her existing house.
- However, only persons with a pucca house having a built-up area of less than 21 sq.m are eligible to avail this facility.
9. What is geotagging and is it mandatory under the PMAY-U?
- Geotagging is a process of adding geographical identification to various media like photography.
- Under the PMAY-U guidelines, it is mandatory for the state government to ensure that all houses built under the scheme are geotagged to the Bhuvan HFA (housing for all) application, which has been developed by the government for the monitoring of the scheme.
10. What is Bhuvan HFA?
- Bhuvan is an Indian Geo Platform developed by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO).
- It is a web-based application that allows users to access various map-related services. The application also provides the facility of geotagging images of houses built or being constructed under the PMAY-U.
Previous year Question
|
1. Time span of 'Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana' is (UPPSC 2016)
A. 2014 - 2021
B. 2014 - 2024
C. 2015 - 2022
D. 2015 - 2025
Answer: C
|
For Prelims & Mains
|
For Prelims: Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana( Urban), Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural), Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation (MoHUPA), “In-situ” Slum Redevelopment (ISSR), Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS), Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP) and Beneficiary-led individual house construction/enhancements (BLC)
For Mains: 1. Discuss the components and features of PMAY(U) and explain why geotagging is mandatory under PMAY(U).
|
INDIA'S POWER DEMANDS
- Apart from economic expansion and urbanization, climate change-induced heat stress—characterized by increasingly intense summers—is a major factor driving electricity consumption.
- Presently, industries, households, and agriculture account for 33%, 28%, and 19% of India's total electricity usage, respectively. However, household electricity demand has witnessed the most rapid increase over the past decade.
- The summer of 2024 saw a significant surge of 40-50% in room air conditioner sales, fueled by rising incomes and record-high temperatures. On May 30, 2024, India's peak electricity demand surpassed 250 GW, exceeding projections by 6.3%.
- Looking ahead to 2025, following the warmest February in 125 years, the country must prepare for prolonged heatwaves and an estimated 9-10% rise in peak electricity demand.
- In essence, India's electricity consumption is rising swiftly and becoming increasingly unpredictable
- Since the early 2000s, India's power generation capacity has expanded fourfold to reach 460 GW, positioning the country as the third-largest electricity producer in the world.
- As part of its clean energy transition, India's power sector is undergoing a significant transformation, with renewable energy (RE) sources such as solar and wind playing an increasingly prominent role.
- Initially, in 2010, the government set a renewable energy target of 20 GW by 2020, which was later revised in 2014 to 175 GW by 2022. In 2021, this ambition was further elevated, aiming for 500 GW of non-fossil fuel power capacity by 2030.
- To address surging electricity demand, the government has consistently implemented both short-term and long-term strategies. For instance, during the 2022 peak, coal supplies to the power sector were increased, and railway transportation for coal was prioritized.
- Additionally, imported coal-based power plants were instructed to operate at full capacity. States that had expanded their solar power infrastructure leveraged excess solar energy to meet daytime peaks, though managing nighttime demand remains a challenge.
- The year 2024 marked a significant milestone, with India adding a record 28 GW of new renewable energy capacity, raising the share of renewables in the electricity mix to 13.5%.
- Meanwhile, coal’s share in installed capacity dropped below 50%, yet it continues to account for 75% of total power generation.
- At present, India’s renewable energy capacity stands at 165 GW, with an additional 32 GW projected to come online in 2025.
- To meet its 2030 target, India will need to accelerate its efforts, adding approximately 50 GW of renewable energy capacity annually over the next five years
- A recent study by the Council on Energy, Environment, and Water (CEEW) explores this issue by modeling six possible scenarios for India’s power sector in 2030. The findings indicate that failing to reach the target of 500 GW of clean energy capacity by 2030 could lead to power deficits and higher electricity costs, even if demand grows at a moderate pace.
- For instance, if India achieves only 400 GW instead of the 500 GW target, approximately 0.26% of the total demand would remain unmet. This shortfall, though seemingly minor, could disrupt power supply for around one million households for 2.5 hours each day. Northern states would face the greatest impact due to network limitations.
- If electricity demand grows at a faster rate—6.4% CAGR between 2023 and 2030 instead of 5.8%—even achieving 500 GW of clean energy will not be sufficient, necessitating additional capacity.
- In this scenario, India has two options: either add 6 GW of new coal-based power (beyond the projects already under construction) or expand renewable energy (RE) capacity by an additional 100 GW beyond the planned 500 GW. While the coal-based approach could meet demand, it would put excessive strain on existing coal plants, increasing the risk of outages and higher costs.
- In contrast, the study suggests that expanding renewable energy capacity by 100 GW, distributed across different states, would be a more sustainable and cost-effective solution
-
India needs to achieve 600 GW of clean energy capacity by 2030 to keep up with growing demand. Meeting this target will enable the country to provide reliable electricity at lower costs, potentially saving up to ₹42,400 crore ($5 billion) in procurement expenses in 2030 alone.
-
Additionally, it would bring significant social and health benefits, including the creation of 1,00,000 new jobs between 2025 and 2030 and a reduction of air pollutant emissions by up to 23% in 2030.
-
However, reaching 600 GW would require an ambitious annual addition of 70 GW of renewable energy (RE) capacity until 2030, which presents considerable challenges. Several operational and grid-related issues are already slowing down RE deployment and discouraging distribution companies from increased adoption.
-
Key obstacles include delays in acquiring conflict-free land, shortages of transmission equipment, uncertainties surrounding incentives for inter-state RE projects, and the complexities of grid balancing. Given these difficulties, coal power plants might seem like a more feasible option.
-
However, this approach would neither be cost-effective nor dependable. Historical data indicates that coal projects take more than seven years to become operational, whereas modular RE plants can be deployed much faster and offer more affordable electricity
Achieving 600 GW of clean energy is both urgent and feasible with the right market incentives. To accelerate the deployment of renewable energy (RE) in India, three key strategies must be implemented.
- Expanding RE Projects Across More States
Currently, five states account for nearly 75% of India’s total RE capacity due to state-agnostic reverse bidding and the full waiver of inter-state transmission system (ISTS) charges, which have concentrated investments in specific regions, increasing land pressure. The government should collaborate with more states—such as Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab, and Kerala—to create a more favorable environment for RE expansion. To encourage a more distributed approach, the ISTS waiver should not be extended beyond June 2025, except for storage-based projects. This would also promote smaller-scale RE plants under initiatives like PM-KUSUM and the PM Surya Ghar Scheme. - Promoting Co-location of Wind, Solar, and Energy Storage
Both central and state governments should encourage integrating wind and energy storage systems with existing and upcoming solar projects. This would optimize land use, enhance transmission network efficiency, and improve grid stability for renewable integration. According to a study by the Council on Energy, Environment, and Water (CEEW), integrating 600 GW of RE by 2030 will require 280 GWh of battery energy storage systems (BESS) and 100 GWh of pumped hydro storage. Priority should be given to BESS, as it can be deployed within six months and is rapidly becoming cost-effective. - Reforming Bidding and Contracting for Faster RE Procurement
Innovations in bidding processes and contract structures are essential to boost RE procurement and ensure its availability in power markets. Several large-scale solar and hybrid RE tenders issued in FY24, particularly by intermediaries like the Solar Energy Corporation of India, failed to attract interest from states. The central government should collaborate with states to stimulate RE demand, refine tender mechanisms, and address bottlenecks proactively. Beyond bilateral procurement, efforts should focus on increasing RE participation in power exchanges. One potential solution is establishing a Contract-for-Difference pool to mitigate risks associated with merchant RE capacities
|
For Prelims: Electricity, Ministry of Power, solar energy,
For Mains:
1. Discuss the Reasons for the Power demand surge in India and its impact on climate change. (250 Words)
|
|
Previous Year Questions
1. Consider the following statements: ( UPSC 2016)
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only 1. Answer: (a) 2. With reference to solar power production in India, consider the following statements: [UPSC 2018]
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Bothe 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 2. Answer: (d)
For Mains 1. India has immense potential of solar energy though there are regional variations in its developments. Elaborate. (UPSC 2020) |
WORLD AIR QUALITY REPORT 2024
-
New Delhi recorded an average annual PM2.5 concentration of 91.8 µg/m³, making it the most polluted capital city. It was followed by N’Djamena in Chad (91.6 µg/m³) and Dhaka (78 µg/m³).
-
Between 2018 and 2024, New Delhi consistently ranked as the most polluted capital, except in 2022 when N’Djamena briefly surpassed it.
-
PM2.5, a fine particulate matter that remains suspended in the air, poses serious health risks. It is linked to respiratory ailments and increases the likelihood of cardiovascular diseases.
-
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends an annual PM2.5 limit of 5 µg/m³, whereas India’s Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has set a significantly higher threshold of 40 µg/m³.
-
The primary contributors to PM2.5 pollution include emissions from combustion engines, power plants, industrial processes, agricultural activities such as stubble burning, and the burning of wood and coal.
-
A report by Swiss air quality technology company IQAir highlights that 13 of the world's 20 most polluted cities are in India, with Byrnihat recording the highest annual PM2.5 concentration at 128.2 µg/m³.
-
Other highly polluted cities in India include Mullanpur (Punjab), Faridabad, Loni, Gurgaon, Ganganagar, Greater Noida, Bhiwadi, Muzaffarnagar, Hanumangarh, Noida, and various parts of Delhi, including Central Delhi.
-
India ranks as the fifth most polluted country, with an average PM2.5 level of 50.6 µg/m³—ten times the WHO’s recommended limit. In 2023, it was the third most polluted nation.
-
The findings are based on data from over 40,000 air quality monitoring stations spread across 8,954 locations in 138 countries, as analyzed by IQAir’s air quality experts.
-
The 7th annual World Air Quality Report confirms that India is home to 13 of the 20 most polluted cities globally. Byrnihat, located on the Assam-Meghalaya border, ranked as the most polluted city in the world. IQAir's analysis utilized data from 40,000 monitoring stations worldwide.
-
The report specifically assessed PM2.5 concentrations—one of the smallest yet most hazardous air pollutants. These fine particles, mainly originating from fossil fuel combustion, can contribute to respiratory illnesses, chronic kidney disease, cancer, strokes, and heart attacks.
-
Airborne particulate matter is a complex mixture of solid and liquid substances that vary in size, composition, and chemical nature. Regulatory frameworks classify particles based on their size, with PM10 (10 microns or smaller) being inhalable and capable of causing health issues, while PM2.5 (2.5 microns or smaller) is even more harmful.
-
Only seven nations—Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Estonia, Grenada, Iceland, and New Zealand—met the WHO’s annual PM2.5 guideline. Oceania emerged as the least polluted region, with 57% of its cities adhering to WHO standards. This region includes Australia, French Polynesia, and New Zealand.
-
No city in East Asia, Southeast Asia, or West Asia complied with WHO air quality guidelines.
-
Additional key insights from the report include:
- Only 17% of cities worldwide met WHO’s air pollution standards.
- Out of 138 countries and regions, 126 (91.3%) exceeded the WHO’s recommended annual PM2.5 limit of 5 µg/m³.
- The seven most polluted cities were located in Central and South Asia.
- Los Angeles was the most polluted major city in the United States.
- The five most polluted countries, according to the report, were Chad (91.8 µg/m³), Bangladesh (78 µg/m³), Pakistan (73.7 µg/m³), Congo (58.2 µg/m³), and India (50.6 µg/m³).
PM2.5 (Particulate Matter 2.5) refers to fine airborne particles that are 2.5 microns or smaller in diameter—about 30 times smaller than the width of a human hair. Due to their tiny size, they can easily penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, posing serious health risks.
Sources of PM2.5:
- Vehicle emissions (cars, trucks, buses)
- Industrial processes (factories, power plants)
- Burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, gas)
- Agricultural activities (stubble burning, fertilizers)
- Construction and road dust
- Wood and biomass burning (household cooking, heating)
- Natural sources (wildfires, volcanic eruptions, dust storms)
-
National Clean Air Programme (NCAP): Launched in January 2019, NCAP is a comprehensive initiative aimed at reducing particulate matter (PM) pollution by 20-30% by 2024, compared to 2017 levels. It covers 102 non-attainment cities (cities that consistently exceed national air quality standards).
-
Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP): Implemented in the National Capital Region (NCR), GRAP is a set of emergency measures that are activated based on the severity of air pollution. It includes actions like banning diesel generators, increasing public transport, and stopping construction activities during high pollution episodes.
-
Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) Emission Standards: India leapfrogged from BS-IV to BS-VI emission standards in April 2020. These stricter norms significantly reduce the permissible levels of pollutants like NOx, PM, and CO from vehicles.
-
Promotion of Electric Vehicles (EVs): The government has introduced various incentives and policies to promote the adoption of electric vehicles, including the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme, which provides subsidies for EV purchases and infrastructure development.
-
Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY): This scheme aims to reduce indoor air pollution by providing free LPG connections to women from below-poverty-line households, encouraging the use of cleaner cooking fuels instead of biomass.
-
Air Quality Index (AQI) Monitoring and Public Awareness: The government has established a network of air quality monitoring stations across the country and provides real-time AQI data to the public. This helps in raising awareness and enabling citizens to take precautionary measures.
-
Ban on Stubble Burning: To address the issue of crop residue burning, which significantly contributes to air pollution in northern India, the government has promoted alternative methods like the use of Happy Seeders and other machinery for residue management, along with financial incentives for farmers.
-
Industrial Emission Standards: The government has set stringent emission standards for industries and power plants, mandating the use of technologies like electrostatic precipitators (ESPs) and flue gas desulfurization (FGD) to reduce emissions
|
For Prelims: Air Pollution, Air Quality Index, PM 2.5, PM 10, BS-VI Vehicles, Graded Response Action Plan, National Capital Region, Nitrogen Dioxide, Ozone, Carbon,
For Mains:
1. With the onset of worsening air quality in Mumbai, discuss the importance of the AQI as a critical resource for both the government and the public. How can the AQI assist in addressing air pollution-related challenges in the upcoming winter months? (250 Words)
|
|
Previous Year Questions 1. In the cities of our country, which among the following atmospheric gases are normally considered in calculating the value of Air Quality Index? (UPSC 2016)
Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 1, 2 and 3 only B. 2, 3 and 4 only C. 1, 4 and 5 only D. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 Answer: B 2. Which of the following are the reasons/factors for exposure to benzene pollution? (UPSC 2020)
Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 1, 2 and 3 only B. 2 and 4 only C. 1, 3 and 4 only D. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 Answer: A 3. What is the ‘Greenhouse Gas Protocol’? (UPSC 2016) (a) It is an international accounting tool for government and business leaders to understand, quantify and manage greenhouse gas emissions (b) It is an initiative of the United Nations to offer financial incentives to developing countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to adopt eco-friendly technologies. (c) It is an inter-governmental agreement ratified by all the member countries of the United Nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to specified levels by the year 2022 (d) It is one of the multilateral REDD+ initiatives hosted by the World Bank Answer: A 4. Photochemical smog is a resultant of the reaction among (UPSC 2013) (a) NO2, O3 and peroxyacetyl nitrate in the presence of sunlight (b) CO, O2 and peroxyacetyl nitrate in the presence of sunlight (c) CO, CO2 and NO2 at low temperature (d) high concentration of NO2 O3 and CO in the evening
Answer: A
5. Acid rain is caused by the pollution of the environment (UPSC 2013, 2022) (a) Carbon Dioxide and Nitrogen (b) Carbon Monoxide and Carbon Dioxide (c) Ozone and Carbon Dioxide (d) Nitrous Oxide and Sulphur Dioxide Answer: D
6. Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) is a standard criterion for (UPSC 2017) (a) Measuring oxygen level in blood (b) Computing oxygen levels in forest ecosystems (c) Pollution assay in aquatic ecosystem (d) Assessing oxygen levels in high-altitude regions Answer: C 7. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change recently published the draft Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, in 2020. Which of the following statements is correct about EIA? (Punjab Civil Service 2020)
1. It predicts the effect of a proposed industrial/infrastructural project on the environment.
2. It prevents the proposed activity/project from being approved without proper oversight or taking adverse consequences into account.
3. It compares various alternatives for a project and seeks to identify the one which represents the best combination of economic and environmental costs and benefits.
4. As per the new notification, Coal and non-Coal mineral prospecting and solar photovoltaic projects do not need prior environmental clearance.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. Only 1 and 2
B. Only 2, 3 and 4
C. Only 1, 2 and 3
D. Only 1, 2 and 4
Answer: D
8. Headquarters of the World Meteorological Organization is located in (NDA 2017)
A. Washington B. Geneva C. Moscow D. London
Answer: B
9. With reference to the 'Global Climate Change Alliance', which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2017)
1. It is an initiative of the European Union.
2. It provides technical and financial support to targeted developing countries to integrate climate change into their development policies and budgets.
3. It is coordinated by World Resources Institute (WRI) and World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD)
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 and 2 only B. 3 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
10. The IPCC is the United Nations body for assessing the science related to climate change. IPCC stands for: (RRB NTPC CBT 2 2022)
A. Intergovernmental Provision on Climate Change
B. International Panel on Climate Change
C. International Provision on Climate Change
D. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
Answer: D
11. Comprehension (SSC CHSL 2020)
Direction: In the following passage some words have been deleted. Fill in the blanks with the help of the alternatives given. Select the most appropriate option for each blank.
Forest fire always (1) ______ by one of two reasons-naturally caused or human-caused. Natural fire is generally (2) ______ by lightning, with a very small percentage (3) ______ by spontaneous combustion of dry fuel such as sawdust and leaves. (4) ______, human-caused fire can happen (5) ______ any number of reasons.
Select the most appropriate option for blank No. 1.
A. takes up B. happens C. causes D. creates
Answer: B
12. Which of the following statements best describes the term 'Social Cost of Carbon'? It is a measure, in monetary value, of the (UPSC 2020)
A. long-term damage done by a tonne of CO2 emission in a given year.
B. requirement of fossil fuels for a country to provide goods and services to its citizens, based on the burning of those fuels.
C. efforts put in by a climate refugee to adapt to live in a new place.
D. contribution of an individual person to the carbon footprint on the planet Earth.
Answer: A
13. The increasing amount of carbon dioxide in the air is slowly raising the temperature of the atmosphere, because it absorbs (UPSC 2012)
A. the water vapour of the air and retains its heat
B. the ultraviolet part of the solar radiation
C. all the solar radiations
D. the infrared part of the solar radiation
Answer: D
14. As per the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendation of a balanced diet, to avoid unhealthy weight gain, total fat should NOT exceed _______ of total energy intake. (UPSSSC Mandi Inspector 2019)
A. 20% B. 30% C. 10% D. 40%
Answer: B
15. What is the role of ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the water purification systems? (UPSC 2012)
1. It inactivates/kills the harmful microorganisms in water.
2. It removes all the undesirable odours from the water.
3. It quickens the sedimentation of solid particles, removes turbidity and improves the clarity of water.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
16. Which of the following ultraviolet rays is more dangerous? (UPTET 2017)
A. UV-A B. UV-B C. UV-C D. None of the above
Answer: C
17. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2019)
1. Agricultural soils release nitrogen oxides into environment.
2. Cattle release ammonia into environment.
3. Poultry industry releases reactive nitrogen compounds into environment.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 3 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 2 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: D
18. Which of the following is a VOC? (MP Vyapam 2022)
A. Toulene B. Water C. Carbon dioxide D. Carbon monoxide
Answer: A
19. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are of great concern because (UGC NET Environmental Science 2020)
A. Once such compounds are in the vapour state, they are difficult to control in the environment.
B. Most of them are ozone depleting substances
C. They contribute to a general increase in reactive hydrocarbons in the atmosphere.
D. They are less soluble in water.
Answer: C
|
