2. What is Stubble?

Stubble refers to the leftover plant material, mainly crop residues, that remains in the field after the primary crop has been harvested. This includes the stems, leaves, and other organic material that is left behind.

Stubble burning is a common agricultural practice where farmers set fire to crop residues, such as straw and stubble, that remain in the field after the main crop (usually paddy or wheat) has been harvested. This practice is typically used as a quick and cost-effective method to clear the field for the next planting season. Stubble burning is particularly prevalent in regions with mechanized farming, where machines like combine harvesters leave behind a significant amount of crop residues.

3. Stubble burning contributes to air pollution

When stubble is burned, it releases a variety of pollutants into the air, including particulate matter, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide. These pollutants can cause several health problems, including respiratory problems, heart disease, and cancer.

Stubble burning is a major contributor to air pollution in many parts of the world. In India, for example, stubble burning is responsible for up to 30% of the air pollution in Delhi during the winter months.

• Stubble burning generates fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) that can penetrate deep into the respiratory system, leading to respiratory problems and reduced air quality.
• The combustion of stubble releases carbon monoxide, which can have adverse health effects when inhaled, particularly in enclosed spaces.
• Stubble burning produces Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which can react with other pollutants in the atmosphere, contributing to the formation of ground-level ozone, a major air pollutant.
• Burning stubble emits greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4), contributing to climate change.
• The combustion of crop residues can release various hazardous chemicals and pollutants, further deteriorating air quality.

4. About the Central Scheme for the Promotion of Agricultural Mechanisation for In-Situ Management of Crop Residue

The Central Scheme on Promotion of Agricultural Mechanisation for In-Situ Management of Crop Residue (AMICMR) is a scheme launched by the Government of India to promote the use of in-situ techniques for managing crop residue. In-situ techniques are those that are used to manage crop residue on the field, rather than burning it. Examples of in-situ techniques include:

• Mulching is the practice of covering the soil with a layer of organic material, such as straw or leaves. This can help to suppress weeds, retain moisture, and improve soil health.
• Zero tillage is the practice of planting crops without tilling the soil. This can help to prevent soil erosion and retain moisture in the soil.
• Direct seeding is the practice of planting seeds directly into the soil, rather than transplanting seedlings. This can help to reduce soil disturbance and prevent the spread of weeds.

The AMICMR scheme provides financial assistance to farmers to purchase machinery that can be used for in-situ management of crop residue. The scheme also provides training and extension services to farmers on how to use these techniques.

The AMICMR scheme is a promising initiative that could help to reduce air pollution caused by stubble burning. However, the scheme needs to be scaled up and made more widely available to farmers to have a significant impact.

5. Conclusion

Stubble burning is a major contributor to air pollution in many parts of the world. However, there are several alternatives to stubble burning, such as in-situ management of crop residue. In-situ management of crop residue is a more sustainable way to manage stubble, as it does not release pollutants into the air and has several benefits for soil health and crop yields.

SPYWARE

1. Context 

Israeli company NSO Group’s controversial spyware Pegasus was used to target 1,223 individuals using WhatsApp across 51 countries in 2019, with 100 Indians being impacted by use of the hacking software — the second highest count globally, court documents showed. The revelation has come as part of a lawsuit filed by WhatsApp against the NSO Group in October 2019, accusing the surveillance company of exploiting a vulnerability in the messaging platform to target users including journalists, lawyers, politicians and human rights activists. In this context, let’s know about the Pegasus.

2. About spyware

• Spyware is a type of malware that is designed to enter a device without the user's knowledge or consent.
• Once installed, spyware can gather a variety of information from the device, including the user's location, contacts, call history, text messages, and even the contents of their photos and videos.
• Spyware is often used by criminals to steal financial information or other sensitive data.
• It can also be used by governments and law enforcement agencies to track and monitor individuals of interest.

There are four main types of spyware:

• Trojan spyware disguises itself as a legitimate program to trick the user into installing it.
• Adware displays unwanted ads on the user's device. Adware can also collect data about the user's browsing habits.
• Tracking cookies are used to track the user's online activity across different websites.
• System monitors user's activity on their device and collects data about their usage patterns.

3. Spyware used to surveil political opponents 

• Spyware has been used to surveil political opponents in many countries around the world.
• In 2021, the Pegasus Project revealed that the spyware was used to target more than 50,000 phone numbers in 50 countries, including India, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Hungary, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Morocco, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
• The Pegasus spyware was also reportedly used by Saudi Arabia to target journalist Jamal Khashoggi's wife months before his death.

4. About Commercial Spyware

• Commercial spyware is a type of malicious software that is sold by companies to governments and law enforcement agencies.
• It is designed to be installed on devices without the user's knowledge or consent, and it can be used to gather a wide range of data, including the user's location, contacts, call history, text messages, photos, videos, and even the contents of their conversations.
• Commercial spyware is often used by governments to spy on political opponents and other individuals of interest.
• However, it can also be used by criminals to steal financial information or other sensitive data.
• One example of commercial spyware is the Pegasus spyware from the NSO Group.
• Pegasus can be installed on iPhones and Android devices without the user's knowledge or consent, and it can be used to gather a wide range of data, including the user's location, contacts, call history, text messages, photos, videos, and even the contents of their conversations.
• Pegasus can also be used to turn on the device's camera and microphone without the user's knowledge.
• Another example of commercial spyware is the FinFisher spyware from Gamma International.
• FinFisher can be installed on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS devices.
• It can be used to gather a wide range of data, including the user's location, contacts, call history, text messages, photos, videos, and even the contents of their conversations.
• FinFisher can also be used to turn on the device's camera and microphone without the user's knowledge.

5. Devices targeting with commercial spyware

Devices can be targeted with commercial spyware in a variety of ways, including:

Network injection involves injecting spyware into the user's network connection, such as by redirecting the user to a malicious website.

SMS messages Spyware can be delivered via SMS messages that contain malicious links or attachments.

Zero-day vulnerabilities are security vulnerabilities that are unknown to the software vendor.

Spyware developers can exploit these vulnerabilities to install spyware on devices without the user's knowledge or consent.

Zero-click attacks are attacks that do not require the user to take any action, such as clicking on a link or opening an attachment.

Spyware can be installed on devices using zero-click attacks by exploiting vulnerabilities in the software or by exploiting trusted third-party services.

6. Increasing Use of Spyware

• The use of spyware is on the rise, with at least 74 governments contracting with commercial firms to obtain spyware or digital forensics technology between 2011 and 2023.
• Autocratic regimes are particularly inclined to procure commercial spyware, accounting for a significant portion of its usage.
• Backlash and Regulation While there have been efforts to hold spyware firms accountable, including the blacklisting of the NSO Group by the U.S. in 2021, the spyware industry has largely remained resilient.
• Other companies in the domain have continued to provide similar services, bypassing some of the restrictions.

7. Tech Company Responses

• Tech giants such as Meta, Google, and Apple have taken proactive steps to address the issue of commercial spyware exploiting vulnerabilities in their software.
• They have released software updates to fix the bugs exploited by spyware.
• Additionally, Apple introduced a 'Lockdown Mode' in iOS 16, offering enhanced protection for high-risk individuals.
• Meta-owned WhatsApp has gone even further by pursuing legal action against the NSO Group. They allege that the spyware firm accessed WhatsApp's servers without permission, which led to the installation of the Pegasus software on victims' mobile devices.
• The U.S. administration has urged U.S. justices to reject NSO's appeal against the lawsuit.

8. Conclusion

Addressing the pervasive threat of commercial spyware requires global cooperation, robust regulatory frameworks, and continued vigilance from both tech companies and governments. Safeguarding individual privacy and the integrity of democratic institutions hinges on our collective efforts to curb the proliferation of these insidious surveillance tools.

 

For Prelims: Spyware, Commerical spyware, Pegasus spyware, FinFisher spyware, Cytrox's Predator spyware For Mains:  1. Summarize the key takeaways and implications of the proliferation of commercial spyware for individual privacy, democracy, and global security. (250 Words)

 

 

Previous Year Questions   1. Match List I with List II (UGC NET 2021) List I                                      List II Security threats                  Meaning A. Hacking                        I. 'Clog-up' a user's inbox with unwanted emails B. Phishing                       II. Gives the originator access to all data entered by the keyboard C. Spyware                       III. Identify fraud D. Spam                            IV. Illegal use of personal data Choose the correct answer from the options given below: 1. A - I, B - III, C - II, D - IV            2. A - II, B - IV, C - III, D - I 3. A - IV, B - I, C - III, D - II 4. A - IV, B - III, C - II, D - I   Answer: D   2. In which country, the Pegasus spyware has been developed? (67th BPSC 2022) A. Israel   B.  Brazil    C. Russia   D.  China    E. None of the above/More than one of the above   Answer: A   3. _______ is the term used to describe malware that multiplies rapidly to use all the available resources in the system. (OSSC BSSO 2022)  A. Rabbit          B. CMOS       C. Companion          D. Trap   Answer: A   4. What does Malware stand for? (OSSC CGL 2022) A. Male standing Virus     B. Malicious Virus    C. Maletrious Virus     D. Malicious Software   Answer: D

 

Source: The Hindu

 

INDIA-THAILAND

 

 

1. Context

 

The recent elevation of the India-Thailand bilateral relationship to the strategic level reflects a smart foreign policy move in New Delhi’s regional and international diplomacy, indicating the growing weight of Southeast Asia in its strategic calculus. As India deepens its Act East policy and expands its Indo-Pacific engagement, Thailand emerges as a key partner, bound by longstanding historical and cultural ties and shared strategic concerns. 

 

2. India-Thailand relationship

 

• India and Thailand's strategic partnership is designed to expand collaboration across multiple domains, including defence, security, cybercrime prevention, maritime security, trade, investment, innovation, start-ups, renewable energy, education, tourism, and cultural exchanges.
• The two nations have agreed to establish new institutional mechanisms for high-level engagement, such as strategic consultations between their respective National Security Councils and strengthened defence cooperation through joint training programs, technology sharing, and industrial partnerships.
• Trade remains a central component of their bilateral relationship, offering both opportunities and challenges. Although Thailand ranks as India's fourth-largest trading partner among ASEAN countries, the growing trade imbalance highlights the importance of achieving more equitable commercial ties.
• India has sought broader access for its agricultural goods, pharmaceutical products, and services, while also exploring local currency trade settlements to buffer against currency fluctuations.
• Given the current global economic uncertainties, both countries recognize the importance of closer coordination to shield their economic ties from external disruptions. Joint efforts are now directed toward emerging sectors such as electric mobility, digital financial systems, financial technology, space exploration, and sustainable economic models like the circular economy.
• Additionally, both sides have committed to fast-tracking the revision of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) to make it more accessible and business-friendly, aiming for significant progress by the end of 2025.
• Nonetheless, efforts to boost investment, dismantle non-tariff barriers, and harmonize regulatory frameworks will be critical to keeping pace with evolving economic dynamics

 

3. Thailand and India's Act east policy

 

 

• Thailand’s strategic location enhances its importance in advancing India’s Act East Policy and the broader Indo-Pacific vision. Positioned as a gateway to mainland ASEAN and sharing maritime boundaries in the Andaman Sea, Thailand presents opportunities for both trilateral and multilateral maritime cooperation.
• With its robust infrastructure and active involvement in regional organisations like ASEAN, BIMSTEC, the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation (MGC), and the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), Thailand plays a pivotal role in promoting regional stability and linking South and Southeast Asia.
• India’s Indo-Pacific strategy similarly aligns with ASEAN Centrality and leverages multilateral groupings such as the East Asia Summit, IORA, and the Ayeyawady-Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy (ACMECS) to shape its regional outreach.
• Both nations have reiterated their shared commitment to a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific. This shared vision is anchored in the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) and India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), with Thailand co-leading the Maritime Ecology Pillar of the IPOI alongside Australia, adding depth to their strategic partnership.
• This alignment between bilateral and regional efforts highlights how India’s multilateral engagement is reinforced through cooperation with partners like Thailand, especially in countering strategic challenges such as China’s growing influence in maritime areas. The Bay of Bengal and the BIMSTEC forum stand out as key arenas where this cooperation takes shap

 

4. Bay of Bengal and BIMSTEC

 

• The Bay of Bengal has increasingly become a focal point for strategic collaboration and economic engagement. The BIMSTEC grouping—where both India and Thailand, as founding members and the region’s largest economies, play central roles—forms the backbone of regional cooperation. The adoption of the BIMSTEC Charter and the Master Plan for Transport Connectivity reflects renewed momentum in this direction.
• During the 6th BIMSTEC Summit held in Bangkok in April 2025, India and Thailand jointly advocated for the expedited implementation of the Motor Vehicles Agreement, along with improvements in coastal shipping and direct port connectivity.
• These efforts aim to enhance regional trade and mobility and are crucial for linking India’s Northeastern states with Southeast Asia. They also align with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions (MAHASAGAR).
• India’s increasing focus on BIMSTEC represents a strategic shift within its neighbourhood-first approach, especially in light of the stagnation within SAARC.
• Initiatives like the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway illustrate how BIMSTEC is evolving into a practical platform for advancing regional integration and offering a counterbalance to China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
• Furthermore, BIMSTEC enables India and Thailand to work together in tackling cross-border challenges such as terrorism, cyber threats, human trafficking, and illegal trade, by fostering shared security frameworks

 

5. Way Forward

 

While India and Thailand's strategic ties have gained momentum, several hurdles persist. One major issue is India’s substantial trade deficit with Thailand, which highlights the need for broader market access for Indian exports and diversification in traded commodities.

Another challenge lies in infrastructure bottlenecks and administrative delays that slow the progress of key connectivity projects like the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway. Political instability in Myanmar adds further uncertainty. Additionally, inconsistencies in regulatory frameworks and the absence of mutual recognition of standards and certifications may hamper seamless economic cooperation.

China’s growing economic and strategic footprint in the Bay of Bengal also underscores the need for enhanced collaboration between India and Thailand to protect shared maritime interests and uphold regional sovereignty.

To strengthen their partnership, both nations must prioritize the execution of the Joint Plan of Action, encourage joint defence manufacturing and technology exchange, remove non-tariff barriers, and deepen cooperation in sectors such as clean energy, artificial intelligence, financial technology, and space exploration. Engaging stakeholders like the private sector, academia, and young professionals in joint initiatives can further enrich bilateral ties.

Ultimately, as the Bay of Bengal emerges as a strategic hub within the Indo-Pacific, Thailand plays a vital role in India’s engagement with ASEAN and the wider region. Anchoring bilateral goals within regional and global frameworks positions both countries to foster a dynamic, collaborative, and strategically resilient form of Asian regionalism

 

 

For Prelims: Thailand, Monarchy, lesemajeste laws, Military rule

 

 

Previous Year Questions   1. What is the correct sequence of occurrence of the following cities in South-East Asia as one proceeds from south to north? (UPSC 2014)  1. Bangkok 2. Hanoi 3. Jakarta 4. Singapore Select the correct answer using the code given below. A. 4-2-1-3     B. 3-2-4-1        C. 3-4-1-2            D. 4-3-2-1   Answer: C   2. Which of the following are regarded as the main features of the "Rule of Law"? (UPSC 2018) 1. Limitation of powers 2. Equality before law 3. People's responsibility to the Government 4. Liberty and civil rights Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 1 and 3 only    B. 2 and 4 only     C.  1, 2 and 4 only        D. 1, 2, 3 and 4   Answer: C

 

 Source: indianexpress

NATIONAL CRITICAL MINERAL MISSION(NCMM)

 

 

1. Context

 

Government of India launched the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) in 2025 to establish a robust framework for self-reliance in the critical mineral sector

 

2. What is the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM)?

 

• The National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) is a strategic initiative by the Government of India aimed at securing the nation's access to essential minerals that are crucial for modern technologies and industrial development.
• These minerals, often referred to as "critical minerals," include lithium, cobalt, nickel, rare earth elements, and others that play a vital role in sectors such as renewable energy, electronics, electric mobility, defense, and telecommunications.
• India’s growing push towards clean energy, electric vehicles, and advanced manufacturing has significantly increased the demand for these minerals. However, many of these resources are either scarce within India or are largely controlled by a few countries, making their supply highly vulnerable to geopolitical and market uncertainties.
• Recognizing this challenge, the NCMM has been envisioned to ensure a reliable, long-term, and secure supply chain for critical minerals.
• Under this mission, India seeks to undertake comprehensive mapping and exploration of its own geological resources to identify potential domestic sources of critical minerals.
• At the same time, the mission aims to foster international partnerships and joint ventures in mineral-rich countries to access these essential resources.
• In addition to exploration and acquisition, the NCMM focuses on building the capacity for value addition, processing, and recycling of critical minerals within the country, thereby reducing dependence on imports and enhancing self-reliance.
• The mission also emphasizes sustainability and environmental responsibility in mineral extraction and processing. It integrates research and innovation to develop efficient technologies for extraction, separation, and recycling of these minerals.
• Overall, the National Critical Mineral Mission reflects India’s strategic vision to secure its mineral resources in line with its developmental goals, green transition agenda, and national security interests

 

3. Significance of National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM)

 

• The significance of the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) lies in its strategic role in safeguarding India's economic growth, technological advancement, and national security in an increasingly resource-competitive world.
• As India transitions toward clean energy, digital infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing, the demand for critical minerals—such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, graphite, and rare earth elements—is expected to surge.
• These minerals are essential components in electric vehicle batteries, solar panels, wind turbines, electronics, and defense systems. However, India's domestic availability of many of these minerals is either limited or unexplored, and their global supply chains are often concentrated in a few countries, making India vulnerable to external shocks and supply disruptions.
• The NCMM is significant because it addresses this vulnerability by adopting a multi-pronged approach. It encourages extensive exploration and development of domestic mineral resources, reduces overdependence on imports, and ensures strategic tie-ups with resource-rich countries to secure stable and diversified supply chains.
• This is particularly important for ensuring energy security and industrial competitiveness in the long term.
• Moreover, by promoting research, innovation, and recycling of critical minerals, the mission supports the development of indigenous capabilities in mineral processing and value addition.
• This aligns with the broader goals of "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) and strengthens India's position in global supply chains, especially in emerging technologies.
• From a geopolitical perspective, the NCMM enhances India's strategic autonomy by reducing dependence on any single country for crucial inputs. Environmentally, it also promotes sustainable mining practices and efficient resource utilization, ensuring that the push for critical minerals does not come at the cost of ecological damage.
• In essence, the National Critical Mineral Mission is a foundational step in preparing India for the demands of the 21st-century economy—securing essential raw materials, supporting innovation and green technologies, and reinforcing national resilience in a rapidly changing global landscape

 

4. What are critical minerals?

 

• Critical minerals are naturally occurring elements or minerals that are essential for the functioning of modern technologies, national defense, clean energy systems, and advanced manufacturing, but which also face a high risk of supply disruption. Their "criticality" arises from two main factors: their economic importance and the vulnerability of their supply chains.
• These minerals are vital for a wide range of applications—from renewable energy technologies like solar panels, wind turbines, and batteries, to electronic devices, telecommunications, aerospace, and defense equipment.
• For instance, lithium, cobalt, and nickel are key components of lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles (EVs), while rare earth elements like neodymium and dysprosium are used in permanent magnets for wind turbines and electronics.
• What makes these minerals "critical" is not just their usage, but the challenges associated with their availability. Many critical minerals are geographically concentrated in a few countries—such as China, the Democratic Republic of Congo, or Australia—making other countries dependent on imports and vulnerable to geopolitical risks, trade restrictions, or supply shocks.
• In the Indian context, the government has identified several minerals as critical, including lithium, cobalt, graphite, nickel, rare earth elements, and tantalum, among others. These are essential for India's ambitions in renewable energy, electric mobility, and high-tech industries.
• Thus, critical minerals are at the heart of the 21st-century global economy, and their secure and sustainable supply is increasingly viewed as a matter of national interest and strategic importance

 

5. Components of NCMM

 

• Increasing Domestic Critical Minerals Production

• Acquisition of Critical Mineral Assets Abroad

• Recycling of Critical Minerals

• Trade and Markets for Critical Minerals

• Scientific Research and Technological Advancement

• Human Resource Development

• Developing Effective Funding, Financing, and Fiscal Incentives

 

6. Usage of Critical minerals

 

Critical minerals play a crucial role in supporting clean energy technologies and various industrial applications. Their relevance spans multiple sectors:

• Solar Energy
  Elements such as silicon, tellurium, indium, and gallium are essential for manufacturing photovoltaic (PV) cells, which are the core components of solar panels. India's existing solar power capacity of 64 GW significantly relies on these materials.

• Wind Energy
  Rare earth elements, particularly neodymium and dysprosium, are vital for producing permanent magnets used in wind turbines. With India setting a target to boost its wind energy capacity from the current 42 GW to 140 GW by 2030, a dependable supply of these minerals is critical.

• Electric Vehicles (EVs)
  Key minerals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel are integral to the production of lithium-ion batteries, which power electric vehicles. India’s National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) envisions the adoption of 6 to 7 million EVs by 2024, further intensifying the demand for these critical materials.

• Energy Storage
  Advanced energy storage systems, particularly those based on lithium-ion technology, require substantial amounts of lithium, nickel, and cobalt to function effectively.

 

 

7. Way Forward

 

India aims to reduce the emissions intensity of its GDP by 45% by 2030 (from 2005 levels), achieve 50% of its electric power capacity from non-fossil sources by 2030, and reach net-zero emissions by 2070. To achieve these climate goals, the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) plays a vital role by building a resilient and self-reliant ecosystem for critical minerals. The mission focuses on boosting domestic production, encouraging private sector participation, strengthening international partnerships, and streamlining regulations to ensure a steady supply of minerals essential for clean energy technologies

 

For Prelims: National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM), Critical Minerals,  Usage of Critical minerals   For Mains: GS III - Environment & Ecology

 

 

 

For Prelims: Critical minerals, Ministry of Mines, carbon emissions,  cleaner energy,  lithium, cobalt, nickel, graphite, tin, copper, Selenium, Cadmium, Centre of Excellence on critical minerals, Australia's CSIRO, Geological Survey of India,    For Mains:  1. What are critical minerals? Discuss their significance for a country's economic development and national security. Explain how the identification of critical minerals helps in reducing import dependency and ensuring resource security. (250 Words)

 

 

Previous Year Questions   1. With reference to the mineral resources of India, consider the following pairs: (UPSC 2010) Mineral                         90%Natural sources in 1. Copper                       Jharkhand 2. Nickel                        Orissa 3. Tungsten                    Kerala Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?   A. 1 and 2 only            B. 2 only             C. 1 and 3 only            D. 1, 2 and 3   Answer: B   2. Recently, there has been a concern over the short supply of a group of elements called 'rare earth metals.' Why? (UPSC 2012) 1. China, which is the largest producer of these elements, has imposed some restrictions on their export. 2. Other than China, Australia, Canada and Chile, these elements are not found in any country. 3. Rare earth metals are essential for the manufacture of various kinds of electronic items and there is a growing demand for these elements. 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: C   3. In India, what is the role of the Coal Controller's Organization (CCO)? (UPSC 2022) 1. CCO is the major source of Coal Statistics in Government of India. 2. It monitors progress of development of Captive Coal/Lignite blocks. 3. It hears any objection to the Government's notification relating to acquisition of coal-bearing areas. 4. It ensures that coal mining companies deliver the coal to end users in the prescribed time. Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 1, 2 and 3            B. 3 and 4 only           C. 1 and 2 only          D. 1, 2 and 4   Answer: A   4. 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   5. Direction: It consists of two statements, one labelled as ‘Statement (I)’ and the others as ‘Statement (II)’. You are to examine these two statements carefully and select the answer using the codes given below: (UPSC ESE 2018) Statement (I): Green energy refers to one which does not harm the ecosystem of planet earth. Statement (II): All renewable energy is green energy. A. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) individually true and Statement (II) is the correct explanation of Statement (I) B. Both statement (I) and Statement (II) are individually true, but Statement (II) is not the correct explanation of Statement (I) C. Statement (I) is true, but Statement (II) is false D. Statement (I) is false, but Statement (II) is true   Answer: C   6. Which type of battery is used in the recently launched world's first fully electric cargo ship by change? (Delhi Police Constable 2017) A.  Lead Acid        B. Manganese        C. Lithium ion        D. Nickel metal hydride   Answer: C   7. White gold is an alloy of (UPSC CAPF 2022)  A. gold, nickel and palladium B. gold, cobalt and palladium C. gold, titanium and platinum D. gold, magnesium and palladium   Answer: A   8. Graphene is frequently in news recently. What is its importance? (UPSC 2012)  1. It is a two-dimensional material and has good electrical conductivity. 2. It is one of the thinnest but strongest materials tested so far. 3. It is entirely made of silicon and has high optical transparency. 4. It can be used as 'conducting electrodes' required for touch screens, LCDs and organic LEDs. Which of the statements given above are correct? A. 1 and 2 only          B. 3 and 4 only         C.  1, 2 and 4 only          D.  1, 2, 3 and 4   Answer: C   9. Graphite and diamonds are__________. (WBCS Prelims 2020)   A. isotopes           B.  isomers             C. isotones           D. allotropes   Answer: D   10. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2020) 1. Coal ash contains arsenic, lead and mercury. 2. Coal-fired power plants release sulphur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen into the environment. 3. High ash content is observed in Indian coal. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 only         B. 2 and 3 only        C.  3 only         D. 1, 2 and 3   Answer: D   11. Which of the following can be found as pollutants in the drinking water in some parts of India? (UPSC 2013) 1. Arsenic 2. Sorbitol 3. Fluoride 4. Formaldehyde 5. Uranium Select the correct answer using the codes given below. A. 1 and 3 only           B. 2, 4 and 5 only          C. 1, 3 and 5 only           D.  1, 2, 3, 4 and 5   Answer: C   12. In the context of solving pollution problems, what is/are the advantage/advantages of the bioremediation technique? (UPSC 2017) 1. It is a technique for cleaning up pollution by enhancing the same biodegradation process that occurs in nature. 2. Any contaminant with heavy metals such as cadmium and lead can be readily and completely treated by bioremediation using microorganisms. 3. Genetic engineering can be used to create microorganisms specifically designed for bioremediation. Select the correct answer using the code given below:  A. 1 only         B.  2 and 3 only          C.  1 and 3 only             D. 1, 2 and 3   Answer: C   13. Due to improper/indiscriminate disposal of old and used computers or their parts, which of the following are released into the environment as e-waste? (UPSC 2013)  1. Beryllium 2. Cadmium 3. Chromium 4. Heptachlor 5. Mercury 6. Lead 7. Plutonium Select the correct answer using the codes given below.  A. 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only           B. 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 only          C. 2, 4, 5 and 7 only               D. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7   Answer: B   14. When was the Geological Survey of India (GSI) of India founded? (UPRVUNL Staff Nurse 2021) A. 1851             B. 1951            C. 1871              D. 1931   Answer: A

 

Source: PIB

 

BIOMASS MISSION

 

 

1. Context

 

The European Space Agency (ESA) is set to launch its ambitious Biomass mission later this month.

 

2. What is biomass mission?

 

• The Biomass mission marks the seventh Earth Explorer satellite launched by the European Space Agency (ESA). As part of the Earth Explorer initiative, these missions aim to enhance our understanding of various components of Earth's environmental systems.
• Scheduled for launch on April 29, Biomass will be carried by the Vega C rocket from Europe’s spaceport in French Guiana, and will enter a sun-synchronous orbit (SSO) at approximately 666 km altitude. This orbit allows the satellite to pass over the same part of the Earth at the same local solar time, enhancing data consistency.
• Forests play a vital role in the global carbon cycle, acting as massive carbon sinks. They are estimated to absorb around 16 billion metric tonnes of CO₂ annually, with an existing carbon stock of 861 gigatonnes held in vegetation and soil.
• However, comprehensive data on above-ground forest biomass—the living mass above the soil—and forest height at a large scale is lacking. This gap hampers our ability to fully assess forest health and their impact on climate regulation. Addressing this deficiency is the main objective of the Biomass mission.
• Furthermore, the satellite will assist in tracking carbon fluctuations, particularly as deforestation and emissions continue to rise. According to the World Resources Institute, 3.7 million hectares of tropical forest were lost in 2023, equating to nearly ten soccer fields per minute. This deforestation was responsible for about 6% of global CO₂ emissions that year.
• Apart from forest data collection, the Biomass mission will also monitor Antarctic ice sheet dynamics and create digital elevation models of landscapes obscured by thick vegetation

 

3. How will the biomass mission monitor forests?

 

The European Space Agency's (ESA) Biomass mission, scheduled to launch on April 29, 2025, is specifically designed to monitor the Earth's forests in unprecedented detail. It will achieve this through the use of a novel instrument called a P-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR). Here's how this technology will enable the mission to monitor forests:  

P-band SAR Technology:

• Long Wavelength: The Biomass mission will utilize a P-band SAR with a long wavelength of approximately 70 cm. This is a key feature because these longer radar waves can penetrate through the forest canopy, including leaves, branches, and even down to the ground in many forest types. Shorter wavelength SARs typically only capture information about the top of the canopy.   
   
• Sensitivity to Woody Biomass: The P-band frequency is particularly sensitive to the woody parts of trees, such as trunks and large branches, which constitute the majority of a forest's biomass and carbon storage. This allows for more direct measurement of the amount of carbon stored in forests.
• All-Weather, Day-Night Operation: Like all SAR instruments, the P-band radar can operate effectively day and night and is not hindered by cloud cover, which is crucial for consistent monitoring, especially in tropical regions that are often cloudy

 

4. Earth explorer programme

 

• The satellites launched through this initiative are designed to gather crucial data on various components of the Earth system, including the planet’s interior, frozen regions (cryosphere), water bodies (hydrosphere), atmosphere, ionosphere—which contains the atmosphere’s electrically charged particles—and the land surface.
• The programme’s first mission, known as the Gravity Field and Steady-State Ocean Circulation Explorer (GOCE), was launched in 2009 and remained operational until 2013.
• It significantly advanced scientific studies on ocean currents and the Earth’s internal structure.
• The latest satellite, named the Earth Cloud Aerosol and Radiation Explorer (EarthCARE), was launched in May 2024.
• This mission aims to enhance scientific understanding of Earth’s radiation balance, which plays a key role in climate regulation, among other objectives.

 

 

 

For Prelims: Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA), G-20 summit, E10 (10% ethanol) or E85 (85% ethanol), Electric vehicle (EV), and International Energy Agency (IEA). For Mains: 1. Discuss the role of biofuels in the global transition to sustainable energy sources, considering their environmental impact, economic implications, and potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. (250 words).

 

Previous year Question 1. According to India's National Policy on Biofuels, which of the following can be used as raw materials for the production of biofuels? (UPSC 2020) 1. Cassava 2. Damaged wheat grains 3. Groundnut seeds 4. Horse gram 5. Rotten potatoes 6. Sugar beet Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 1, 2, 5 and 6 only B. 1, 3, 4 and 6 only C. 2, 3, 4 and 5 only D. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 Answer: A 2. It is possible to produce algae-based biofuels, but what is/are the likely limitation(s) of developing countries in promoting this industry? (UPSC 2017) 1. Production of algae-based biofuels is possible in seas only and not on continents. 2. Setting up and engineering the algae-based biofuels production requires a high level of expertise/technology until the construction is completed. 3. Economically viable production necessitates the setting up of large-scale facilities which may raise ecological and social concerns. Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: B 3. With reference to the Neem tree, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2014) 1. Neem oil can be used as a pesticide to control the proliferation of some species of insects and mites. 2. Neem seeds are used in the manufacture of biofuels and hospital detergents. 3. Neem oil has applications in the pharmaceutical industry. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: C

 

Source: Indianexpress