ARAVALLI RANGE
1. Context
On December 23, Air Marshal and the Integrated Defence Staff chief Ashutosh Dixit laid out the defence establishment’s case for critical minerals. Modern defence systems, he said, rely on reliable access to these minerals and import dependence has become a strategic vulnerability because global supply chains are concentrated and exposed to export controls and geopolitics.
2. Significance of the Aravalli range
- Beyond being almost two billion years old and the oldest mountain system in India, these hills function as a vital ecological shield against the advance of desert conditions into the Indo-Gangetic plains.
- They act as a natural barrier slowing the eastward expansion of the Thar Desert into Haryana, Rajasthan, and western Uttar Pradesh. The range plays a crucial role in climate regulation, biodiversity conservation, and groundwater replenishment.
- Extending roughly 650 km from Delhi to Gujarat, it supports key water-recharge networks and gives rise to major rivers such as the Chambal, Sabarmati, and Luni.
- The region is abundant in building stones like sandstone, limestone, marble, and granite, as well as minerals including lead, zinc, copper, gold, and tungsten.
- Although these resources have been extracted for centuries, the last forty years have seen rampant stone and sand quarrying, leading to declining air quality and a sharp reduction in groundwater recharge.
- Part of this mining activity has occurred unlawfully. The Court also observed that India has international obligations under the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification to safeguard fragile ecosystems like the Aravalli range
3. Geological & Physical Features of Aravalli
- The Aravalli Range is one of the oldest fold mountain systems in the world, with its geological origins dating back nearly two billion years to the Precambrian era.
- Unlike young fold mountains such as the Himalayas, the Aravallis have undergone extensive weathering and erosion over millions of years, which has reduced them to a series of low-lying hills, ridges, and rocky outcrops rather than sharp peaks.
- This long geological history makes the range a valuable record of early crustal evolution and ancient tectonic processes on the Indian subcontinent.
- Geologically, the Aravallis are composed primarily of metamorphic and igneous rocks, including quartzite, schist, gneiss, marble, and granite. These rock formations are part of the Aravalli–Delhi orogenic belt, which was formed due to ancient tectonic collisions and crustal movements.
- The presence of economically significant minerals such as copper, lead, zinc, gold, and tungsten reflects the complex geological processes that shaped the region. Over time, repeated uplift and denudation exposed these mineral-rich formations at the surface, making the range an important mining zone historically.
- Physically, the Aravalli Range stretches for about 650 kilometres in a south-west to north-east direction, beginning near Palanpur in Gujarat and extending through Rajasthan to Haryana and Delhi.
- The range is discontinuous in nature, with broken hill chains and isolated ridges rather than a continuous mountain wall. Its highest peak is Guru Shikhar in the Mount Abu region of Rajasthan, rising to about 1,722 metres above sea level.
- Moving northwards, the height of the range gradually declines, merging into low hills and rocky terrain around Delhi.
- The Aravallis play a significant role in shaping the physical geography of north-western India. Acting as a natural climatic divide, they influence rainfall patterns by intercepting south-west monsoon winds to a limited extent and preventing the unchecked eastward expansion of the Thar Desert.
- The range also forms an important watershed, giving rise to several seasonal and perennial rivers such as the Chambal, Sabarmati, Luni, and Banas.
- The fractured and porous nature of its rock formations allows rainwater to percolate underground, contributing substantially to groundwater recharge in an otherwise semi-arid region
4. What is the “100-metre definition” of Aravalli Hills?
- The “100-metre definition” of the Aravalli Hills refers to an administrative and legal criterion used—especially in environmental regulation and court proceedings—to identify and protect the Aravalli region.
- Under this definition, any area that rises more than 100 metres above the surrounding plain is treated as part of the Aravalli hill system, irrespective of whether it is a prominent mountain, ridge, or a low, eroded hill. In other words, even subtle elevations and fragmented hillocks that meet this height threshold are classified as Aravalli features.
- This definition became important because the Aravallis are very old and heavily eroded, meaning many sections no longer appear as classic mountains. If protection were limited only to visibly high or continuous hills, large portions of the range—especially in Haryana, Rajasthan, and the Delhi-NCR region—would fall outside legal safeguards.
- The Supreme Court and various environmental authorities have relied on the 100-metre criterion to prevent mining, construction, and land-use change in ecologically sensitive areas of the Aravalli range.
- By using a measurable elevation benchmark rather than appearance alone, the definition helps expand environmental protection to degraded and fragmented parts of the hills
5. Supreme Court Intervention and Uniform Definition
- The Supreme Court’s intervention in the Aravalli region arose from growing concerns over rampant mining, construction, and land-use changes that were degrading this fragile and ancient mountain system.
- One of the core problems identified by the Court was the absence of a uniform and scientifically grounded definition of the Aravalli Hills.
- Different States and authorities were using varying criteria—based on revenue records, forest classification, or visual identification—allowing large tracts of the Aravallis to be excluded from protection and opened up for exploitation.
- To address this ambiguity, the Supreme Court emphasised the need for a uniform definition applicable across States, particularly Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi, where the Aravallis are most fragmented and vulnerable.
- The Court endorsed an objective, elevation-based approach, popularly referred to as the “100-metre definition”, under which land rising more than 100 metres above the surrounding plains would be treated as part of the Aravalli hill system.
- This was intended to ensure that even low, eroded, or discontinuous hill formations, which are characteristic of the Aravallis due to their great geological age, are brought within the protective framework.
- Through its interventions, the Supreme Court also linked the protection of the Aravallis to India’s international environmental obligations, particularly under the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).
- The Court observed that the degradation of the Aravalli range could accelerate desertification in north-western India and undermine groundwater recharge, air quality, and regional climate stability.
- Consequently, it directed governments to adopt a consistent and precautionary approach in identifying, mapping, and regulating activities in the Aravalli region
6. Action against mining
- Since the early 1990s, the Union Environment Ministry has framed regulations permitting mining only in projects that receive official approval, but these safeguards have been widely disregarded.
- In response to persistent violations, the Supreme Court intervened in 2009 and enforced a complete ban on mining activities in Haryana’s Faridabad, Gurugram, and Mewat districts.
- More recently, in May 2024, the Court halted the issuance and renewal of mining leases across the Aravalli range and instructed its Central Empowered Committee (CEC) to carry out an in-depth review. This exercise culminated in a set of recommendations submitted in March 2024.
- The CEC advocated a holistic strategy that called for scientifically mapping the entire Aravalli system across States, conducting a broad-scale environmental impact assessment of mining operations, and enforcing an absolute ban on mining in ecologically fragile zones.
- These included wildlife-protected areas, water bodies, tiger corridors, critical groundwater recharge regions, and locations within the National Capital Region.
- The Committee also stressed the need for tighter controls over stone-crushing units and advised that no fresh mining permissions or lease extensions be granted until comprehensive mapping and impact studies were completed.
- The Supreme Court incorporated these recommendations in its order issued in November 2025.
- In addition, in June 2025, the Union government launched the Aravalli ‘Green Wall’ initiative, aimed at increasing vegetation cover in a five-kilometre buffer zone around the range across 29 districts in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi.
- According to the government, this programme is expected to make a significant contribution towards the restoration of 26 million hectares of degraded land by the year 2030.
7. Way Forward
The Court observed that earlier instances demonstrate how absolute prohibitions frequently give rise to illegal mining networks, aggressive sand mafias, and uncontrolled resource extraction. Consequently, instead of enforcing a complete shutdown, the Court adopted a balanced strategy—allowing lawful mining operations to proceed under strict oversight, placing a temporary halt on new mining activities until a science-based framework is developed, and keeping ecologically critical zones permanently closed to mining
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For Prelims: Aravalli ranges, UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)
For Mains: GS I - Indian Geography
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Source: The Hindu
NATIONAL CRITICAL MINERAL MISSION(NCMM)
1. Context
As the curtain rises on 2026, the global landscape resembles less a cohesive portrait gallery of national foreign policies and more a jagged mosaic of competing interests protruding into one another. The stage reveals the world at an inflection point: Geopolitical turbulence, AI- and tariff-driven economic uncertainty, and climate urgency are all reshaping the global order.
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
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Increasing Domestic Critical Minerals Production
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Acquisition of Critical Mineral Assets Abroad
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Recycling of Critical Minerals
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Trade and Markets for Critical Minerals
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Scientific Research and Technological Advancement
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Human Resource Development
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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:
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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
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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)
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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
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Source: PIB
INDIA-BANGLADESH
1. Context
Bangladesh’s first woman prime minister Khaleda Zia, who played a major role in restoring democracy after a period of tumultuous military rule and dominated the country’s politics for decades, died Tuesday after a prolonged illness. She was 80. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will represent India at the funeral of Khaleda Zia in Dhaka on Wednesday.
2. The Evolution of India-Bangladesh Ties
- The genesis of India's relationship with Bangladesh traces back to the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War when India played a crucial role in providing military and material support for Bangladesh's fight for independence from Pakistan.
- However, in the aftermath, relations faced challenges as military regimes took control, leading to a rise in anti-India sentiment in the mid-1970s.
- Issues such as boundary disputes, insurgency, and water-sharing disputes contributed to the strained ties.
- The situation persisted for several decades until Sheikh Hasina assumed power in 1996, ushering in a new era in bilateral relations.
- Under her leadership, a significant milestone was reached with the signing of a treaty on the sharing of Ganga waters.
- Since then, India and Bangladesh have successfully fostered cooperation in various areas, including trade, energy, infrastructure, connectivity, and defence.
3. India-Bangladesh Economic Ties
- Over the past decade, bilateral trade between India and Bangladesh has demonstrated consistent growth.
- Bangladesh has emerged as India's largest trade partner in South Asia, with bilateral trade surging from $10.8 billion in 2020-21 to $18 billion in 2021-2022.
- However, a slight dip occurred in 2022-23 due to the impact of the pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war.
- In return, India stands as Bangladesh's second-largest trade partner, with exports amounting to $2 billion in the Indian markets.
- In 2022, both countries successfully concluded a joint feasibility study on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
- This agreement, designed to reduce or eliminate customs duties on traded goods and streamline trade norms, is expected to unlock broader social and economic opportunities.
- The CEPA gains added significance as Bangladesh is poised to lose its Least Developed Country (LDC) status after 2026, thereby forfeiting its duty-free and quota-free market access in India.
- Dhaka is keen to finalize a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with New Delhi and simultaneously pursue the China-backed Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). This dual-track approach raises concerns for India.
4. India's Infrastructural Investments in Bangladesh
- As a significant development partner for Bangladesh, India has been actively contributing to various infrastructure and connectivity projects.
- Since 2010, India has provided Lines of Credit totalling over $7 billion. A milestone in this collaboration was achieved last year when Prime Minister Modi and Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the Akhaura-Agartala rail link, connecting Bangladesh and the northeast through Tripura.
- This link grants India access to Chattogram and Mongla ports in Bangladesh, facilitating cargo movement and poised to stimulate small-scale industries while fostering the development of Assam and Tripura.
- In the energy sector, Bangladesh imports nearly 2,000 megawatts of electricity from India.
- The BIMSTEC Master Plan for Transport Connectivity is instrumental in connecting major transport projects in India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Thailand, thereby establishing a comprehensive shipping network.
- India's focus is likely to be on the Matarbari Port, situated approximately 100 km from Tripura, being developed by Bangladesh.
- This port will play a pivotal role in establishing a crucial industrial corridor, connecting Dhaka with the northeastern part of India.
5. Navigating Challenges in the India-Bangladesh Relationship
- Several points of tension mark the diplomatic landscape between India and Bangladesh.
- Foremost among them is the impending Teesta dispute, which holds a central position in the agenda of the Hasina-led government.
- This dispute revolves around the equitable sharing of Teesta's waters, with Bangladesh seeking a fair distribution.
- Another source of contention is the Rohingya issue. The Hasina government aims for the peaceful repatriation of Rohingyas to Myanmar, but talks with the military junta have proven unsuccessful thus far.
- Bangladesh seeks India's cooperation to influence Myanmar, but the Modi government, with ties to the junta, asserts its intention to deport Rohingyas from its mainland.
- Cross-border terrorism and infiltration pose additional threats to internal security. The rise of majoritarian forces adds complexity to the already intricate landscape.
- While violence against Muslims has increased in India in recent years, Prime Minister Hasina has consistently condemned these attacks and expressed dissatisfaction with comments by Indian leaders concerning "illegal" immigrants.
6. Global Influences on the India-Bangladesh Relationship
- The Awami League government under Sheikh Hasina has faced vocal criticism from the U.S., particularly concerning "democratic backsliding."
- In 2021, the Biden administration imposed sanctions on a Bangladeshi anti-crime and anti-terrorism task force, citing human rights violations.
- Tensions escalated further as the U.S. announced a policy to restrict visas for Bangladeshis deemed responsible for undermining the election process in the country. This external pressure has implications for the global ties of Bangladesh.
- Adding to India's concerns is the deepening relationship between Bangladesh and China, marked by substantial Chinese investments in infrastructure in recent years.
- According to the Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, China has undertaken the construction of 12 highways, 21 bridges, and 27 power and energy projects in Bangladesh.
- However, Prime Minister Hasina has asserted that her government is "very much careful" about its partnership with China.
7. The Way Forward
Despite challenges, the India-Bangladesh relationship boasts strong potential for further growth. Open communication, constructive dialogue, and focus on shared interests are crucial for navigating the complexities and ensuring a prosperous future for both nations.
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For Prelims: India-Bangladesh, Free Trade Agreement, Rohingyas, Teesta River, BIMSTEC, Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement
For Mains:
1. Assess the role of China's growing influence in Bangladesh and its implications for the India-Bangladesh relationship. How can India navigate this complex geopolitical landscape? (250 Words)
2. Discuss the potential benefits of the BIMSTEC Master Plan for Transport Connectivity for India, Bangladesh, and the broader region. What are the key considerations for effective implementation and ensuring equitable benefits? (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. With reference to river Teesta, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2017)
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 2. Consider the following countries: (UPSC 2018)
1. Australia
2. Canada
3. China
4. India
5. Japan
6. USA
Which of the above are among the free-trade partners' of ASEAN?
A. 1, 2, 4 and 5 B. 3 , 4, 5 and 6 C. 1, 3, 4 and 5 D. 2, 3, 4 and 6
3. Increase in absolute and per capita real GNP do not connote a higher level of economic development, if (UPSC 2018) (a) Industrial output fails to keep pace with agricultural output. 4. The SEZ Act, 2005 which came into effect in February 2006 has certain objectives. In this context, consider the following: (UPSC 2010)
Which of the above are the objectives of this Act? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
5. A “closed economy” is an economy in which (UPSC 2011) (a) the money supply is fully controlled
6. Consider the following pairs:(UPSC 2016)
Community is sometimes mentioned in the news In the affairs of
1. Kurd Bangladesh
2. Madhesi Nepal
3. Rohingya Myanmar
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
A. 1 and 2 B. 2 only C. 2 and 3 D. 3 only
7. With reference to the BIMSTEC, which of the following statements is/are true? (UPPSC 2022)
1. P. M. Narendra Modi addressed the 5th BIMSTEC Summit on 30th March 2022.
2. 5th Summit of BIMSTEC had been chaired by India.
Select the correct answer from the code given below:
A. Neither 1 nor 2
B. Both 1 and 2
C. Only 2
D. Only 1
8. Which of the following statement/s is/are true about the three-day international Seminar on 'Climate Smart Farming System' for BIMSTEC countries held during December 11-13, 2019? (UPPSC 2020)
1. It was held at Katmandu, Nepal.
2. It was aimed to have experience sharing for more resilience to climate change through an ecological approach to enable the improvement of tropical small-holding farming systems.
Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
A. Only 1 B. Only 2 C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
9. The term 'Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership; often appears in the news in the context of the affairs of a group of countries known as (UPSC 2016)
A. G20 B. ASEAN C. SCO D. SAARC
10. Recently, with which one of the following countries did India sign the 'Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement' ? (UPSC CAPF 2022)
A. Egypt B. Israel C. South Africa D. United Arab Emirates
Answers: 1-B, 2-C, 3-C, 4-A, 5- D, 6-C, 7-D, 8-B, 9-B, 10- D
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Source: The Hindu
UNION PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION
1. Context
Over a year after the government asked the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to withdraw an advertisement for lateral entry to 45 posts, the lateral entry scheme for recruiting experts for government jobs remains in limbo, with the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) still in “consultation” with ministries over the scheme.
2. History of UPSC
- The UPSC has its genesis in the Civil Service Commission set up by the British government in 1854.
- Before this, civil servants in India were nominated by the East India Company and then trained at Haileybury College in London.
- However, following a report by Lord Thomas Macaulay, it was decided that instead of nominations, civil servants should be selected through a competitive exam.
- Thus, the Civil Service Commission was set up and for some years, exams were held only in London.
- It was a decade later, in 1864, that Satyendranath Tagore (brother of Rabindranath Tagore) became the first Indian to clear the exam.
- The exam started being held in India only in 1922, after the First World War.
Image Source: The Indian Express3. In Independent India
- The origin of the Public Service Commission in India is found in the First Dispatch of the Government of India on the Indian Constitutional Reforms on the 5th of March 1919 Which referred to the need for setting up some permanent office charged with the regulation of service matters.
- This concept of a body intended to be charged primarily with the regulation of service matters found a somewhat more practical shape in the Government of India Act, of 1919.
- Section 96(C) of the Act provided for the establishment in India of a Public Service Commission which should discharge, regarding recruitment and control of the Public Services in India, such functions as may be assigned thereto by rules made by the Secretary of State in Council.
- On October 1, 1926, the Public Service Commission was set up in India.
- The functions of the Public Service Commission were not laid down in the Government of India Act, 1919, but were regulated by the Public Service Commission (Functions) Rules, 1926 framed under sub-section (2) of Section 96 (C) of the Government of India Act, 1919.
- Further, the Government of India Act, of 1935 envisaged a Public Service Commission for the Federation and a Provincial Public Service Commission for each Province or group of Provinces.
- Therefore, in terms of the provisions of the Government of India Act, 1935 and with its coming into effect on 1st April 1937, the Public Service Commission became the Federal Public Service Commission.
- After independent India adopted its Constitution on January 26, 1950, the Federal Public Service Commission became the Union Public Service Commission, under Clause (1) of Article 378 of the Constitution.
- All expenses for the UPSC are paid from the Consolidated Fund of India.
4. Functions of UPSC
Functions of UPSC include
- Conducting examinations for appointment to the services of the Union
- Direct recruitment by selection through interviews
- Appointment of officers on promotion or deputation or absorption
- Framing and amendment of Recruitment Rules for various services and posts under the Government
- Disciplinary cases relating to different Civil Services
- Advising the Government on any matter referred to the Commission by the President of India.
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For Prelims: Union Public Service Commission, Lord Thomas Macaulay, Haileybury College, Satyendranath Tagore, Indian Constitutional Reforms, Government of India Act, 1919, Public Service Commission, Public Service Commission (Functions) Rules, 1926, Government of India Act, of 1935, Article 378 of the Constitution, Consolidated Fund of India,
For Mains: 1. What is Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)? Discuss its evolution and Explain the functions of UPSC. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. The Union Public Service Commission of India has been established under the Article ______ (MP Patwari 2017)
A. 315 B. 234 C. 421 D. 56
Answer: A
2. T.B. Macaulay has penned his 'Minute on Education' in the year (AP SET 2016)
A.1735 B. 1753 C. 1853 D.1835
Answer: D
3. Which of the following is NOT true about Mill's History of British India? (UGC NET 2019)
A. It founded the traditional institutions of India static and retrogressive
B. The analysis made by Mill suited the needs of imperial government.
C. It became a textbook on India for the British officers of the Indian Civil Services at Haileybury College
D. It was not informed by the English utilitarian philosophy
Answer: D
4. Who among the following was the first Indian to qualify for the Indian Civil Service? (NDA 2019)
1. Satyendranath Tagore
2. Surendranath Banerjee
3. R.C. Dutt
4. Subhas Chandra Bose
Answer: A
5. Which among the following events happened earliest? (UPSC 2018)
A. Swami Dayanand established Arya Samaj.
B. Dinabandhu Mitra wrote Neel Darpan
C. Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay wrote Anandmath.
D. Satyendranath Tagore became the first Indian to succeed in the Indian Civil Services Examination.
Answer: B
6. In the Government of India Act 1919, the functions of Provincial Government were divided into "Reserved" and "Transferred" subjects. Which of the following were treated as "Reserved" subjects? (UPSC 2022)
1. Administration of Justice
2. Local Self-Government
3. Land Revenue
4. Police
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1, 2 and 3 B. 2, 3 and 4 C. 1, 3 and 4 D. 1, 2 and 4
Answer: A
7. Features of the Government of India Act 1935 are: (Rajasthan Police SI 2016)
(a) The provincial autonomy
(b) The establishment of Federal Court
(c) The establishment of All India Federation at the Centre
1. a and b 2. b and c 3. a and c 4. a, b and c
Answer: 4
8. With reference to the Union Government, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2015)
1. The Department of Revenue responsible for the preparation of Union Budget that is presented to the Parliament.
2. No amount can be withdrawn from the Consolidated Fund of India without the authorization from the Parliament of India
3. All the disbursements made from Public Account also need authorization from the Parliament of India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 2 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: C
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Source: The Indian Express
QUANTUM PHYSICS
1. Context
Quantum physics is counterintuitive. In the words of American physicist Richard Feynman, “no one understands it”. Yet, surprisingly, it has touched every aspect of our lives. From nuclear power to semiconductors, computers, electronics, lasers, and medical diagnostic tools such as MRI scanners, all have emerged from the principles of quantum physics
2. Quantum Physics
- A macroscopic object-like a ball, chair, or a person- can be at only one location at a time, which can be predicted accurately; and the object's effects on its surrounding can't be transmitted faster than at the speed of light. This is the classical 'experience' of reality.
- Observe a ball flying through the air and plot its path. You can predict exactly where the ball will be at a given time. If the ball strikes the ground, you will see it doing so in the time it takes light to travel through the atmosphere to you.
- Quantum physics describes reality at the subatomic scale, where the objects are particles like electrons. Here you can't pinpoint the location of an electron. You can only know that it will be present in some volume of space, with a probability attached to each point in the volume: say 10% at point A and 5% at point B.
- You might find the electron at point B when you probe the volume. If you repeatedly probe the volume, you will find the electron at point B 5% of the time.
- Ewin Schrodinger described one interpretation of the laws of quantum physics in a famous thought experiment in 1935. There's a cat in a closed box with a bowl of poison. You can't know whether the cat is alive or dead without opening the box.
- In this time, the cat is said to exist in a superposition of two states: alive or dead. When you open the box, you force the superstition to collapse into a single state. The state to which it collapses depends on the probability of each state. The same thing happens with the electron's locations.
3. Bits
It is a single unit of information that has a value of either 0 or 1 (off or on, false or true, low or high).
3.1 Quantum bits(qubits)
- In quantum computing, a qubit or quantum bit is the basic unit of quantum information- the quantum version of the classical binary bit physically realized with a two-state device. A qubit is a two-state quantum-mechanical system, one of the simplest quantum systems displaying the peculiarity of quantum mechanics.
- The qubit is the fundamental unit of QC. It could be a particle like an electron. Some information is directly encoded on the qubit: if the electron's spin is pointing up, it means 1; if the spin is pointing down, it means 0. But instead of being either 1 or 0, the information is encoded in a superposition: say, 45% 0 plus 55% 1.
- This is entirely unlike the two separate states of 0 and 1 and is the third kind of state.
4. What is quantum superposition?
- Quantum superposition is the theory that sub-atomic particles exist in multiple states simultaneously.
- The practical application of this mind-bending version of reality is most obvious in quantum computers. While digital computers store data as bits (the ones and zeros of binary), quantum computers use qubits that exist as a one, zero, or both at the same time.
- This superposition state creates a practically infinite range of possibilities, allowing for incredibly fast simultaneous and parallel calculations.
5. Challenges
5.1 Security-related issues
- Quantum computing can have a disruptive effect on cryptographic encryption, which secures communications and computers.
- It might pose a challenge for the government also because if this technology goes into the wrong hands, all the government's official and confidential data will be at risk of being hacked and misused.
5.2 Technological Issues
- The challenge lies in harnessing the properties of quantum superposition in a highly controlled manner. The qubits tend to be very fragile and lose their "quantumness" if not controlled properly. Also, a careful choice of materials, design, and engineering is required to get them to work.
- On the theoretical front lies the challenge of creating algorithms and applications for quantum computers.
5.3 Other Challenges
- Practical QCs will require at least lakhs of qubits, operating with superconducting circuits that we are yet to build apart from other components like firmware, circuit optimization, compilers, and algorithms that make use of quantum physics possibilities. Quantum supremacy itself- a QC doing something a classical computer can't-is thus at least decades away.
- The billions being invested in this technology today are based on speculation profits, while companies that promise developers access to quantum circuits on the cloud often offer physical qubits with noticeable error rates.
For Mains
| For Mains:1.What are the steps that India can take to establish a suitable ecosystem for the adoption of quantum technology and its applications within the country? Discuss. |
Source: The Hindu
AIR POLLUTION
1. Context
A significant portion of the fine particulate matter that Delhi residents breathe is not emitted directly, but created in the atmosphere itself
2. Pollution
- Pollution is defined as ‘an addition or excessive addition of certain materials to the physical environment (water, air and lands), making it less fit or unfit for life’.
- Air pollution is aggravated because of four developments: increasing traffic, growing cities, rapid economic development, and industrialization.
- ‘The presence in the atmosphere of one or more contaminants in such quality and for such duration as it is injurious, or tends to be injurious, to human health or welfare, animal or plant life.’
- It is the contamination of air by the discharge of harmful substances.
- Air pollution can cause health problems, damage the environment, property and climate change.
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ABOUT CENTRAL POLLUTION CONTROL BOARD (CPCB)
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3.Major air pollutants and their source
3.1 Sulphur dioxide (SO2)
- It is a gas produced from burning coal, mainly in thermal power plants.
- Some industrial processes, such as the production of paper and the smelting of metals, produce sulphur dioxide.
- It is a major contributor to smog and acid rain. Sulphur dioxide can lead to disease estimated states of antibiotic consumption in global agriculture vary, due to poor surveillance and data collection in many countries, ranging from around 63,000 tonnes/year to over 240,000 tonnes/yr.
3.2 Suspended particulate matter (SPM)
- It consists of solids in the air in the form of smoke, dust, and vapour that can remain suspended for extended periods and is also the main source of haze which reduces visibility.
- The finer of these particles, when breathed in, can lodge in our lungs and cause lung damage and respiratory problems.
3.3 Carbon Di-Oxide
- It is principally greenhouse gas emitted as a result of human activities such as the burning of coal, oil, and natural gases.
3.4 Carbon monoxide (CO)
- It is a colourless, odourless gas that is produced by the incomplete burning of carbon-based fuels including petrol, diesel, and wood.
- It is also produced from the combustion of natural and synthetic products such as cigarettes.
- It lowers the amount of oxygen that enters our blood.
- It can slow our reflexes and make us confused and sleepy.
3.5 Lead
- It is present in petrol, diesel, lead batteries, paints, hair dye products, etc. Lead affects children in particular.
- It can cause nervous system damage and digestive problems and, in some cases, cause cancer.
3.6 Ozone
- It occurs naturally in the upper layers of the atmosphere.
- This important gas shields the earth from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun.
- However, at the ground level, it is a pollutant with highly toxic effects.
- Vehicles and industries are the masourcesurce of ground-level ozone emissions.
- Ozone makes our eyes itch, burn, and water. It lowers our resistancecoldscold and pneumonia.
3.7 Nitrogen oxide (Nox)
- It causes smog and acid rain.
- It is produced from burning fuels including petrol, diesel, and coal.
- Nitrogen oxide can make children susceptible to respiratory diseases in winters
4.WHO Standards on air quality
- Recently, the World Health Organisation (WHO) in its first-ever update since 2has tightened global air pollution standards.
- New WHO Global Air Quality Guidelines (AQGs) provide clear evidence of the damage air pollution inflicts on human health, at even lower concentrations than previously understood.
- The guidelines recommend new air quality levels to protect the health of populations, by reducing levels of key air pollutants, some of which also contribute to climate change.
- 6 classical pollutants include particulate matter (PM 2.5 and 10), ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) sulfur dioxide (SO2) and carbon monoxide (CO).
5.Status of pollution in India
- India continues to remain one of the most polluted areas in the world, with pollutant levels several times higher than recommended levels.
- For example, a Greenpeace study found the average concentration of PM2.5 in New Delhi in 2020 to be nearly 17 times higher than the recommended levels.
- In Mumbai, pollution levels were eight times higher; in Kolkata, over nine times higher; and in Chennai, over five times higher.
- According to the expense of the Global Burden of Disease study, over 95% of India’s population already lived in areas where pollution levels were higher than WHO’s 2005 norms.
- India’s own national air quality standards are much more lenient, even compared to WHO’s 2005 norms.
- For example, the recommended PM2.5 concentration for o24 hoursriod is 60 micrograms per cubic metre, compared to 25 micrograms advised by WHO’s 2005 guidelines.
- But even these lower standards are hardly met
6. Stwere taken by Government to combat air pollution
- SAMEER app has been launched wherein air quality information is available to the public along with provision for registering complaints against air polluting activities.
- Air quality information collection and dissemination are done from a centralised location. It proviral-time time air quality status to all stakeholders.
- A dedicated media corner, Twitter and Facebook accounts have been created for access to quality-relatedated information and to provide a platform for lodging complaints by the general population. Crowdsourcing
- Crowd sourcing of innovative ideas/ suggestions/proposals from the public is done through throthe ugh CPCB website to strengthen efforts for improving air quality in Delhi-NCR.
- The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change is implementing Environment Education, Awareness and Training Schtoe to promote environmental awareness among all sections of the society and to mobilise people’s participation in the conservation of the environment. Under the National Green Corps (NGC) programme of the Ministry, about one lakh schools have been identified as Eco-clubs, wherein, nearly thirty lakh students are actively participating in varienvironmentalment protection and conservation activities, including the issues related to air pollution.
- The Ministry is promoting people's participation and awareness building among citizens for environmental conservation that focuses on the promotion of cycling, saving water and electricity, growing trees, proper maintenance of vehicles, following lane discipline and reducing congestion on roadscarpoolingling etc.
- For field feedback on air polluting activities in Delhi and major NCR towns, 46 teams of the Central Pollution Control Board have been deployed.
- The initiative was taken by the Government for the abatement and control of air pollution in Delhi and NCR since 2016 hbornebore good results.
6.Way forward
- Ambient air pollution poses grave, multi-faceted risks to India’s prospects for achieving its development goals: it leads to a rapid increase in public health expenditure, diminished labour productivity, and reduced agricultural yields. Estimates peg the economic cost of air pollution to the Indian economy at more than US$150 billion a year.
- The air pollution crisis will require innovative, collaborative solutions from public, private, and civil society stakeholders. Institutions, governments, philanthropies, and members of the academe have been fighting the battle for clean air for decades; it is time to tap into the power of a multi-stakeholder framework to hurdle this challenge.
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For Prelims: National Clean Air Programme, Air Pollution, Particulate Matter, Clean Air Action Plans For Mains:
1. What are the challenges and opportunities presented by the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) for improving air quality in Indian cities? Discuss the measures required to overcome implementation hurdles and ensure the effective management of air pollution. (250 Words)
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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 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
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
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
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
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
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
8. Headquarters of the World Meteorological Organization is located in (NDA 2017)
A. Washington B. Geneva C. Moscow D. London
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
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
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
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.
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
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%
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
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
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
18. Which of the following is a VOC? (MP Vyapam 2022)
A. Toulene B. Water C. Carbon dioxide D. Carbon monoxide
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.
Answers: 1-B, 2-A, 3-A, 4-A, 5-D, 6-C, 7-D, 8-B, 9-A, 10-D, 11-B, 12-A, 13-D, 14-B, 15-A, 16-C, 17-D, 18-A, 19-C
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Source: The Hindu
