• Once launched, NISAR will be positioned in a sun-synchronous polar orbit, circling the Earth at an altitude of 747 kilometers with an orbital inclination of 98.4º. Unlike conventional satellites that capture images, NISAR will utilize synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology, which sends radar pulses toward the Earth's surface and then measures the return time and phase shift of the reflected signals.
• The resolution of radar imaging improves with larger antenna sizes—known as aperture—but deploying physically large antennas in space is unfeasible. SAR overcomes this limitation by simulating a large antenna.
• As the satellite advances in its orbit, it emits repeated radar pulses and collects their echoes, which are later processed to reconstruct an image as if a giant antenna had captured them all at once—thus earning the term "synthetic aperture."
• NISAR will feature two radar systems: an L-band SAR operating at 1.257 GHz that penetrates vegetation and soil layers to detect subsurface changes and land deformations, and an S-band SAR at 3.2 GHz designed for observing finer surface details such as vegetation types and water bodies.
• Globally, the satellite will mainly operate using the L-band radar, which aligns with NASA’s scientific objectives. However, over India, ISRO will routinely utilize the S-band radar for targeted observations.
• These S-band acquisitions are tailored to India's specific needs, such as biomass estimation, soil moisture monitoring, and filtering out ionospheric interference, which are crucial for sectors like agriculture, forestry, and disaster response.
• Both space agencies aim to coordinate radar operations efficiently so that simultaneous use of both radars is possible over the Indian subcontinent, reducing data conflicts.
• In radar systems, polarisation refers to the orientation of the electric field in the radar wave. SAR can both send and receive horizontally or vertically polarised signals. Using various combinations of these allows NISAR to distinguish between different surface compositions such as snow, soil, crops, or forests.
• NISAR’s radar system will cover a wide area with a swath width of 240 km, thanks to a SweepSAR design. This approach uses a beam transmission system that, upon signal return, employs multiple smaller apertures that steer electronically to create scanning beams sweeping across the satellite’s ground path.
• This scan-on-receive method enables large-area coverage without sacrificing image clarity.
• The mission will deliver spatial resolutions ranging from 3 to 10 meters and vertical accuracy down to a few centimeters. This high level of detail is suitable for tracking urban land subsidence or other subtle ground movements. Each point on the Earth’s surface will be revisited every 12 days.
• NISAR is equipped with a massive 12-meter-wide mesh reflector antenna, enabling it to generate annual biomass maps at a resolution of 1 hectare and quarterly maps distinguishing between cultivated and fallow farmland.
• It will also provide detailed floodplain maps and, in emergencies, can generate ‘damage proxy maps’ within five hours of data capture.
• However, there are some limitations. Due to the satellite’s orbital geometry, certain data acquisition modes may not achieve full global coverage. At latitudes above 60º, NISAR will skip every other observation due to overlapping orbits.
• Furthermore, around 10% of Earth’s surface may not be covered from both ascending and descending passes within a given 12-day cycle

• When NASA and ISRO agreed to collaborate on the NISAR project, both agencies committed to contributing equally in terms of funding, technology, and expertise.
• ISRO was responsible for providing the I-3K satellite bus — the core spacecraft framework that handles system commands, propulsion, orientation, and includes solar panels capable of generating 4 kW of power.
• In addition, ISRO delivered the complete S-band radar electronics system, a high-speed Ka-band communication unit, and a steerable high-gain antenna. The development of the S-band radar components was carried out at the Space Applications Centre in Ahmedabad.
• On the other hand, NASA’s primary input was the L-band synthetic aperture radar system. This was developed at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), which supplied all related radio-frequency components, a 12-meter radar antenna, a 9-meter carbon fiber boom, and the structural assembly that supports both radar units.
• NASA also provided the L-band feed array and avionics systems, including a solid-state recorder with large data capacity, a GPS system, autonomous data management tools, and a Ka-band communication unit.
• After integration of the radar payloads at JPL, the spacecraft was sent to ISRO’s Satellite Centre in Bengaluru for final assembly. Once fully tested, NISAR will be launched aboard ISRO’s GSLV Mk-II rocket from the spaceport in Sriharikota, with ISRO overseeing the entire launch sequence.
• While the overall mission will be coordinated through NASA's Mission Operations Center at JPL, routine flight control and monitoring will be managed by ISRO’s Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC) in Bengaluru.
• After deployment into orbit, the bulk of the mission’s data—approximately 3 terabytes daily—will be transmitted through NASA’s Near Earth Network ground stations located in Alaska, Norway’s Svalbard, and Punta Arenas in Chile.
• These facilities will work in conjunction with ISRO’s data reception stations in Shadnagar and Antarctica. Once the raw data are received, India’s National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) will process and distribute mission outputs tailored for Indian applications, in a workflow that parallels NASA’s global data distribution system

SELF-HELP GROUPS (SHG)

1. Context

2. Self Help Groups (SHGs)

• Self Help Groups (SHGs) are community-based organizations formed by a small group of individuals, usually from the same socio-economic background, who come together to collectively address their common needs and aspirations.
• These groups play a significant role in empowering marginalized and economically disadvantaged individuals, especially women, by providing them with a platform to enhance their social, economic, and decision-making capabilities.

3. Key Features and Objectives

• Collective Strength: SHGs encourage individuals to pool their resources, skills, and knowledge to collectively address challenges and opportunities.
• Financial Inclusion: SHGs promote savings and credit activities, allowing members to accumulate funds for emergencies, livelihood initiatives, and income generation.
• Empowerment of Women: SHGs predominantly focus on women's empowerment, aiming to enhance their status, self-confidence, and participation in household and community decision-making.
• Social Cohesion: SHGs foster a sense of community, solidarity, and mutual support among members, contributing to social cohesion and collective development.
• Skill Development: SHGs often engage in skill-building activities, vocational training, and awareness programs to enhance members' livelihood opportunities.

4. Need for SHGs

The establishment of Self Help Groups (SHGs) addresses a range of socio-economic needs and challenges faced by marginalized and economically disadvantaged communities, particularly women, in various regions. The need for SHGs arises from several factors:

• Poverty Alleviation: SHGs contribute to poverty reduction by promoting income-generating activities and small-scale enterprises among members. These initiatives empower individuals to generate additional sources of income and improve their standard of living.
• Women's Empowerment: SHGs predominantly focus on women's empowerment by providing them with a collective platform to enhance their decision-making abilities, self-confidence, and socio-economic status. This empowerment extends to their households and communities.
• Access to Credit: SHGs provide an alternative source of credit for members who may not have access to formal banks. This access to credit supports various needs, including emergencies, education, health expenses, and livelihood development.
• Entrepreneurship Promotion: SHGs promote entrepreneurial spirit by encouraging members to initiate and manage small-scale businesses. This contributes to local economic development and job creation.
• Women's Participation: By involving women in SHGs, gender norms, and stereotypes can be challenged, leading to increased participation in decision-making processes and more equitable distribution of resources.

5. Issues with SHGs

While Self Help Groups (SHGs) have proven to be effective in addressing various socio-economic challenges, they also face certain issues and challenges that can impact their functioning and overall impact. Some of the key issues with SHGs include:

• Inequitable Participation: Despite the focus on women's empowerment, SHGs sometimes face challenges in ensuring equal and meaningful participation of all members, particularly marginalized and socially excluded women.
• Dependency on External Support: Many SHGs rely heavily on external support for training, capacity-building, and financial assistance. This can hinder their long-term sustainability and self-reliance.
• Lack of Financial Literacy: Some SHG members may have a limited understanding of financial concepts and practices, making it difficult for them to effectively manage their savings and loans.
• Limited Market Linkages: While SHGs encourage income-generating activities, members often lack access to markets to sell their products or services, which can hinder their economic growth.
• Loan Default and Repayment Issues: In some cases, members struggle with loan repayment, leading to tensions within the group and potential disruptions in trust and collaboration. 

6. Role of SHG in Women's Empowerment

The role of Self Help Groups (SHGs) in women's empowerment is significant and multifaceted. SHGs provide a platform that empowers women economically, socially, and personally, enabling them to enhance their status, decision-making abilities, and overall well-being. Here's an overview of the role of SHGs in women's empowerment:

Economic Empowerment:

• Financial Inclusion: SHGs provide women access to savings and credit facilities, enabling them to accumulate funds for emergencies and invest in income-generating activities.
• Income Generation: SHGs promote entrepreneurship and livelihood opportunities among women, helping them generate additional sources of income for their families.
• Asset Ownership: Through collective savings and loan activities, women can acquire assets such as land, livestock, and equipment, contributing to their economic independence.

Social Empowerment:

• Decision-Making: Participation in SHGs helps women develop confidence, leadership skills, and a voice in household and community decisions.
• Knowledge and Awareness: SHGs offer a platform for sharing information, learning about health, education, legal rights, and government programs, empowering women to make informed choices.

Personal Empowerment:

• Self-Confidence: Engaging in group activities and interacting with peers fosters self-confidence and self-esteem among women.
• Agency and Autonomy: Women gain a sense of agency over their lives, enabling them to assert their rights and negotiate with family members and external stakeholders.

Gender Equality:

• Changing Norms: SHGs challenge traditional gender norms and stereotypes by promoting women's participation in economic activities, decision-making, and leadership roles.
• Balanced Power Dynamics: Women's increased involvement in income generation and decision-making contributes to more equitable power dynamics within households.

Community Transformation:

• Ripple Effect: Empowered women within SHGs serve as role models, inspiring other women in the community to join and pursue their own empowerment journey.
• Poverty Alleviation: Economic empowerment through SHGs contributes to poverty reduction and overall community development.

7. Conclusion

The expansion of the SHG movement's horizons, evolving from its initial focus on social mobilization and financial inclusion to encompass economic development, represents a natural progression along the livelihood continuum. While the shift from being mere producers to becoming entrepreneurs is indeed a positive transition, it's crucial not to overlook the inherent differences between business enterprises and savings groups or social collectives. Governments, although supportive, have yet to demonstrate their prowess in fostering entrepreneurship within rural settings.

 

For Prelims: Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Poverty Alleviation, Financial Inclusion, Women Empowerment, and Gender Equality. For Mains: 1. Discuss the role and significance of Self Help Groups (SHGs) in empowering marginalized communities, particularly women, for socio-economic development in rural areas. (250 Words) 2. Analyse the challenges faced by SHGs in their functioning and sustainability, and suggest measures to enhance their effectiveness as vehicles for grassroots empowerment and poverty alleviation. (250 Words)

 

Previous year Question 1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2023) 1. The Self-Help Group (SHG) programme was originally initiated by the State Bank of India by providing microcredit to the financially deprived. 2. In an SHG, all members of a group take responsibility for a loan that an individual member takes. 3. The Regional Rural Banks and Scheduled Commercial Banks support SHGs. How many of the above statements are correct? A. Only one B. Only two C. All three D. None Answer: B

Source: The Indian Express

 

H5N2

 

 

1. Context

 

During the year 2025 (till 24^th July 2025) outbreaks of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in domestic poultry has been reported in 10 States of the country namely Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Odisha

 

2. Avian Influenza

 

Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is a viral infection that primarily affects birds. Avian influenza is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can spread from animals to humans. Certain subtypes of the virus infect humans, leading to severe respiratory illnesses. 

Symptoms of avian influenza in humans are similar to those of regular flu and can include: Fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and severe respiratory distress in advanced cases.

3. Avian Influenza Type A Viruses

• Type A viruses are classified based on two proteins on their surfaces – Hemagglutinin (HA) and Neuraminidase (NA). There are about 18 HA subtypes and 11 NA subtypes.
• Several combinations of these two proteins are possible e.g., H5N1, H7N2, H9N6, H17N10, H18N11, etc.
• All known subtypes of influenza A viruses can infect birds, except subtypes H17N10 and H18N11, which have only been found in bats.
• The most notable of these subtypes is H5N1, which has been responsible for numerous human infections and fatalities in the past.

4. Avian Influenza and Human Transmission

The recent incident in Mexico raises significant concerns as the person affected had no identified contact with infected animals. This suggests a possible shift in the virus's capacity to transmit to humans without direct interaction with poultry implying a deviation from the traditional mode of transmission, where humans contract the virus through exposure to poultry. It indicates a new level of transmission or virulence of the virus that was not previously observed in the region.

 

Human infections with avian influenza viruses are not unprecedented yet rare, the potential for the virus to adapt and spread among humans is a serious public health concern. The H5N1 subtype, in particular, has caused human fatalities since it was first identified in humans in 1997. However, each new case, especially one without direct animal contact, underscores the importance of continuous monitoring and preparedness.

 

5. WHO Response

The WHO has emphasized the need for heightened vigilance and preventive measures to reduce the risk of infection.

The Mexico case serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for global health systems to remain alert to the threats posed by zoonotic diseases and to ensure rapid response mechanisms are in place to prevent widespread outbreaks.

6. Key Recommendations

Enhanced measures include:

a) Avoiding high-risk environments like live animal markets  and contact with sick or dead birds;

b) Prompt reporting of sick animals and consuming only thoroughly cooked poultry products

c) Ensuring practice of good hand hygiene and prompt medical care to individuals exposed to infected birds or environments

d) Implementing robust surveillance systems to detect and respond to new cases promptly.

 

7. Related Initiatives

i) India's self-declaration of freedom from Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has been approved by World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) in specific poultry compartments which follows a "detect and cull" policy as outlined in the National Action Plan for Prevention, Control, and Containment of Avian Influenza (revised - 2021).

ii) The Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS), The Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) framework by World Health Organization (WHO). 

 

 

For Prelims:  Avian influenza H5N2, Avian influenza H5N1, Bird Flu, Hemagglutinin (HA) and Neuraminidase (NA), influenza A viruses, Genomic surveillance, Pathogens, and Viruses.   For Mains: 1.Discuss the impact of the H5N2 Avian Influenza virus on public health. What measures can be implemented at national and international levels to mitigate the spread of avian influenza viruses and minimize their impact on both poultry production and human health?

 

 

 

Previous Year Questions 1. H1N1 virus is sometimes mentioned in the news with reference to which one of the following diseases? (UPSC 2015) A. AIDS B.  Bird flu C.  Dengue D.  Swine flu Answer: D 2. Consider the following statements : (UPSC 2010) 1. Every individual in the population is an equally susceptible host for Swine Flu. 2. Antibiotics have no role in the primary treatment of Swine Flu. 3. To prevent the future spread of Swine Flu in the epidemic area, the swine (pigs) must all be culled. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: A 3. Which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2013) 1. Viruses lack enzymes necessary for the generation of energy. 2. Viruses can be cultured in any synthetic medium. 3. Viruses are transmitted from one organism to another by biological vectors only. 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. Which of the following statements is/are correct? Viruses can infect (UPSC 2016) Bacteria Fungi Plants Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only  (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (d)

 

Source -  Indian Express

 

 

GRASSLAND BIRD CENSUS

 

 

 

1. Context

 

Between March 18 and May 25, a survey to record the grassland bird population in Kaziranga National Park was undertaken by a team of forest officials, scientists, and conservationists. It is the “first-ever grassland bird census” conducted in Assam’s Kaziranga National Park. This census was also mentioned in the Mann ki Baat radio programme by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (July 27).

 

2. Grassland Bird Census

 

A recent census of grassland birds documented 43 distinct species, which included 1 listed as Critically Endangered, 2 as Endangered, and 6 as Vulnerable, according to the IUCN Red List.

Among the significant findings was the identification of a breeding colony of the endangered Finn’s Weaver, a bird unique to the Brahmaputra floodplains. The study focused on ten priority species that are either globally threatened or endemic to this region:

Species Name	Scientific Name	IUCN Status
Bengal Florican	Houbaropsis bengalensis	Critically Endangered
Swamp Francolin	Ortygornis gularis	Near Threatened
Indian Grassbird	Graminicola bengalensis	Near Threatened
Finn’s Weaver	Ploceus megarhynchus	Endangered
Swamp Grass Babbler	Laticilla cinerascens	Endangered
Jerdon’s Babbler	Chrysomma altirostre	Vulnerable
Slender-billed Babbler	Argya longirostris	Vulnerable
Black-breasted Parrotbill	Paradoxornis flavirostris	Vulnerable
Marsh Babbler	Pellorneum palustre	Vulnerable
Bristled Grassbird	Schoenicola striatus	Vulnerable

 

 

 

3. Significance of Grassland

 

 

• Grasslands, dominated by the Poaceae family which includes between 10,000 to 12,000 species, span large portions of the Earth's surface and support rich biodiversity. These ecosystems are typically found in regions with low to moderate rainfall, ranging from 600 to 1,500 mm annually.

• Often underestimated, grasslands are even more beneficial than forests in several ways. They deliver crucial ecosystem functions such as water and carbon storage, nutrient recycling, and climate regulation. Importantly, they also sustain both human agriculture and livestock, alongside wild herbivores — which in turn support carnivores by serving as their prey base.

• In India, grasslands cover nearly 25% of the country’s land area. These include diverse types such as the alpine meadows in the Himalayas, the chaurs at their base, the terai grasslands along the floodplains of the Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers, the floating phumdis of Manipur (home to the famous “dancing deer”), the dry savannas of central and western India, and the sholas in the Western Ghats.

• Globally, grasslands are known by various names depending on the region. The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) notes that they are referred to as ‘savannah’ in Africa, ‘cerrado’ in South America, ‘prairie’ in North America, ‘steppe’ in Central Asia, and ‘meadow’ in the United Kingdom.

• What makes grasslands unique is their resilience — they can continue to grow even after being grazed by animals. This quality allows them to support a diverse range of wildlife. For instance, Kaziranga and Manas host species like the one-horned rhinoceros and wild water buffalo in their moist grasslands, the terai supports swamp deer, and the rare Sangai deer flourishes on the floating islands of Loktak Lake in Manipur.

• Despite their importance, most of India’s grasslands — like its wetlands — lack formal protection. A UNCCD report released last year on rangeland degradation revealed that less than 5% of the country’s grasslands are in protected zones. Furthermore, India’s grassland area reduced significantly from 18 million hectares in 2005 to just 12 million hectares by 2015

 

4. Status of tigers in Kaziranga tiger reserve

 

 

• On July 29, Tuesday, authorities released the 2024 summary report titled ‘Status of Tigers in the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve’, based on the Phase IV monitoring efforts carried out across the Eastern Assam, Nagaon, and Biswanath Wildlife Divisions. This assessment was conducted under the directives of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).

• The latest count recorded 148 tigers within the reserve — a notable increase from 104 in 2022, 99 in 2018, and 96 in 2014. According to Reserve Director Sonali Ghosh, this growth positions Kaziranga as having the third-highest tiger density globally, following Corbett Tiger Reserve in Uttarakhand and Bandipur Tiger Reserve in Karnataka.

• The monitoring exercise lasted 103 days and employed 293 pairs of camera traps spread over 1,307.49 square kilometres. These traps captured 4,011 tiger images from 242 different sites. Based on the unique stripe patterns on their right flanks, 148 adult tigers were identified — comprising 83 females, 55 males, and 10 whose gender could not be determined.

• While the increase in population is encouraging, the report also highlights ongoing threats to Kaziranga’s tigers, including habitat loss, conflicts with humans, and the impact of expanding agriculture and infrastructure around the reserve

 

 

5. Significance of Kaziranga National park

 

• Kaziranga National Park holds immense ecological, cultural, and conservation significance in India and globally. Located in the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River in Assam, Kaziranga is celebrated for its remarkable biodiversity, particularly as the single largest habitat of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros.
• In fact, it is home to more than two-thirds of the world's population of this species, making it the cornerstone of rhino conservation in South Asia.
• Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, Kaziranga is not just a sanctuary for rhinos but also a thriving ecosystem that supports tigers, elephants, wild water buffalo, swamp deer, and numerous bird species.
• It is part of the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot and represents one of the last remaining undisturbed natural areas in the Brahmaputra Valley floodplain.
• What sets Kaziranga apart is its dynamic riverine ecosystem shaped by annual floods, which sustain its vast expanses of grasslands, wetlands, and forests. These natural cycles create ideal conditions for a diverse range of flora and fauna, particularly large herbivores. This, in turn, supports a healthy population of carnivores, including one of the highest tiger densities in the world.
• Kaziranga is also significant from a conservation policy perspective. It is one of the first protected areas in India to implement rigorous anti-poaching strategies and community engagement models. The park’s success in wildlife protection has become a case study in how conservation can be balanced with tourism and local livelihoods.
• Moreover, Kaziranga plays a vital role in climate regulation, water retention, and flood mitigation in the region. It acts as a natural buffer during the Brahmaputra’s monsoon overflow, absorbing excess water and reducing downstream damage. The park is also an important carbon sink, contributing to climate resilience in northeast India.
• In essence, Kaziranga is not just a wildlife reserve; it is a living landscape that reflects the intricate relationship between nature, people, and policy. Its continued protection is essential for maintaining ecological balance, conserving endangered species, and supporting the broader environmental and economic health of the region

 

6. What is the NTCA?

 

• The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Government of India. It was established in 2006 under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended by the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act, 2006
• The NTCA was created to strengthen tiger conservation efforts in India and to implement the Project Tiger program more effectively. Its formation followed concerns about declining tiger populations and the need for a more focused, accountable, and legally empowered body to oversee their protection
• NTCA has the power to issue binding directions to states regarding tiger conservation. It also coordinates with law enforcement agencies, forest departments, and international organizations to curb wildlife crime and illegal trade in tiger parts
• The NTCA plays a central role in India's tiger conservation success, helping the country maintain over 70% of the world’s wild tiger population. Through data-driven conservation, policy advocacy, and strict protection measures, NTCA has helped reverse the decline in tiger numbers, as reflected in the results of All India Tiger Estimations

 

7. What is the Project Tiger?

 

Project Tiger is a pioneering wildlife conservation initiative launched by the Government of India in 1973 to protect the endangered Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) and its natural habitat. It was initiated under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and is currently implemented by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA)

By the early 1970s, India's tiger population had declined drastically due to habitat loss, hunting, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict. The 1972 Wildlife (Protection) Act laid the legal foundation, and Project Tiger followed as a focused effort to save the species from extinction

Key Features of Project Tiger:

• Tiger Reserves:
  Specially designated protected areas known as tiger reserves were established. India began with 9 reserves in 1973; as of now (2024), there are over 53 tiger reserves across 18 states.

• Core-Buffer Strategy:
  Each tiger reserve is divided into:

  • Core Zone: Strictly protected; human activity is prohibited.

  • Buffer Zone: Sustainable use area where conservation and local livelihoods coexist.

• Monitoring & Research:
  Uses scientific methods like camera traps, pugmark tracking, and radio telemetry. The All India Tiger Estimation is conducted every four years.

• Community Participation:
  Local communities are involved through eco-development programs to reduce dependence on forest resources and promote conservation awareness.

• Rehabilitation and Relocation:
  Voluntary relocation of villages from core areas to reduce pressure on tiger habitats

 

🐅 Tiger’s Conservation Status – Know the Protection Levels!   🔖 Under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 📌 Listed in Schedule I – 🛡️ Offers the highest level of legal protection in India against hunting and poaching. 🌍 IUCN Red List Classification 📌 Endangered (EN) – ⚠️ Tigers face a very high risk of extinction in the wild due to habitat loss, poaching, and human conflict. 🌐 CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) 📌 Included in Appendix I – 🚫 International trade of tigers and their parts is strictly banned, except under exceptional circumstances.

 

 

 

For Prelims: Kaziranga National Park, Indian Forests Act, 1927, Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 For Mains: 1. What are the prohibitions for visitors in case of National Parks, Discuss the laws governing National Parks and Tiger reserves

 

Source: Indianexpress