FORTUNE

IAS ACADEMY

Environment
& Biodiversity
GS - 3
2023 - 24
part - 1

Compilation

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 INDEX
Environment & Biodiversity
Bird Conservation in India
E-Waste Management
Environmental Impact Assessment
GM Mustard
The Menace Of Stubble Burning
Plastic Pollution
Cyclone Michaung and Effect on Industries
UNFCCC - COP 28
Defining Forests in India
Human - Animal conflicts
Indian Cities continues to be Polluted
Heat Action Plan
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PYQ MAPPING
Q)

(2018)

ABOUT
•

in

.
• 13

•
• –
The

ii. The
•
iii.

•
•

• in »

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• The

1970.

• The

• The

• The

• The

CONCLUSION

climate change

SAMPLE QUESTION

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Syllabus: GS III -

WHY IN NEWS?
PYQ MAPPING
The on August
Q)
28 released a report on ‘Pathways to Circular Economy in Indian
Electronics Sector,’ NITI Aayog
e-waste. The report talks
about changing the outlook on e-waste management to build a

(2013). $7 billion market

Q)

The
items of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) and its parts that
without the intent of
re-use
(2018)
SHORT TAKE
• Toxicity :- These wastes contain hazardous substances such as
ICEA is the apex industry body of mobile
lead mercury, cadmium polyvinyl chloride (PVC) that can
of manufacturers brand owners,
VAS (value added • Exposure to heavy metals and toxic fumes

distributors and retail chains of mobile damages and other lung diseases.
handsets and electronics devices. • This can lead to
KEY FINDINGS IN THE REPORT and
•
•
recycling $7 bn dollar market opportunity.
informal
» As per a 2019 UN report 'Time to seize opportunity, tackle
• In almost industrial hubs like challenge of e-waste
Moradabad printed circuit boards recovery rate of Cobalt (high in demand due to use in
(PCBs) arrive in the tonnes to have 30%.
the gold and silver melted out of
» recycler in China
them and sold.
more cobalt than what the country produces in
• The report speaks of a year.
an euphemism for
• Presence of a large informal sector has been a major
and breaking them down to serve as
spare parts for repair. • Lack of data
• ICEA report suggests public-private
partnerships to distribute the costs • Lack of awareness among the populace about e-waste and its
“reverse harmful aspects.

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supply chain”.
•
• According to the
‘high yield’
generated more than 10 lakh tonnes of e-waste in 2019-20
an increase from 7 lakh tonnes in 2017-18
• e-waste dismantling capacity has not been increased from 7.82
lakh tonnes since 2017-18.
to encourage
• Ministry of Environment had told the tribunal
manufacturers to design
that 95% of e-waste
producers accountable
dissolving it in acids.
for their product management
E-Waste Management Rules, 2016

• Producers
EPR) with targets.
• Provision of of rules was also introduced
E-waste Management Rules 2022 (came into force since April 2023)
•
• Producers of electronic goods have to ensure at least 60% of their electronic waste is collected
70% and 80%
will report these on an online portal.
•

WAY FORWARD
• with mandatory
spur

• for
producers in achieving their EPR targets and hence
reducing the price of products and designing them
longevity and repairability of products.
• over
dependence
in as well.
• Circular Economy Approach as it creates an

» For Ex:- There’s about (World

Economic Forum).

CONCLUSION

Prime Minister said

Kachre Ko Kanchan

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SAMPLE QUESTION

(15 M)(250 W)

Your Notes

NHRC
Syllabus: GS II -

WHY IN NEWS?
PYQ MAPPING
Q) The

INTRODUCTION
•
Commission are appointed by the President on the

• The consists of the Prime Minister (Chairperson

(2014)
Q)

(2021)

SHORT TAKE
NHRC
• It was established under the

•
the Paris Principles (1991)

• The

(GANHRI)
India’s apex
rights watchdog with the ‘A’ status
a perfect score.

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Syllabus: GS III - Environmental Impact Assessment.

WHY IN NEWS?
PYQ MAPPING
Q)

(2020)
Q) »
up to 50% without needing to hold public

clearance process.

(2014)
EXISTING FRAMEWORK OF EIA IN INDIA

SHORT TAKE
• UNEP

and economic impacts of a project

prior to decision-making
• EIA examines the possible
environmental consequences of the

before the decisions are made.

• Environment Impact Assessment in
India is statutorily

• MOEFCC has launched a single

window online PARIVESH portal to
EVOLUTION OF EIA
automate evironmental clearances
(EC).
• The 1992 had
emphasized the need for direct

issues.
•
on EIA (1997) works in a

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2006 NOTIFICATION ISSUES ASSOCIATED WITH THE 2020

• EIA NOTIFICATION
• Provision for post facto clearance
• Category A projects:
EIA and undertake
•
a public hearing before an EC
30 days to 20 days and 45 to
40 days for public hearing.
• Government could classify certain projects as
• Category B projects:
strategic. Such projects can be exempted from
impacts; evaluated and given a clearance by state level
the State Environment Impact Assessment
•
(SEAC). Here projects are further
B2, where projects under B2 are exempted. which could create irrepairable environmental
damage.

SIGNIFICANCE OF EIA
• Promotes environment friendly and long-term growth.
• EIA can help in
is vulnerable to moderate to severe seismic hazard.
•

• EIA

• Promotes

NEEDS TO STRENGTHEN EIA

• The Ken-Betwa River linking project Panna Tiger Reserve. Public
addressing these
concerns and modifying the project to minimize its environmental impact.
• The Idu-Mishmi community of Arunachal Pradesh raised their voices in each public hearing against the Dibang

• The deadly gas leak at the LG Polymer Plant

• “Urban disasters” Bengaluru struggled

• Upper Himalayan Regions

has the made the region

ISSUES INVOLVED IN THE EIA PROCESS

•

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WAY FORWARD
• EIA should have an
environment science as well as local bodies.
• Grievance Redressal Mechanisms: Establishment of clear and accessible channels for stakeholders to report

• EIA should be Sweden

SAMPLE QUESTION

(10 M)(150 words)

Your Notes

MAINS JOT DOWN

DROUGHT
Drought Early Warning System’s (DEWS) data shows that 30%
At least 11.5% of area: severe drought b) 18.9% of area: abnormal to moderate
IIT Gandhinagar’s Water and Climate Lab.

WOMEN
NCRB data reveals that
NFHS-5 data shows that married women face

silence. Greater levels of violence were seen in poorer households. A higher suicide rate among housewives is also
seen in the southern states
subsequent levels of exposure.

DIVERSITY OF INDIA

Union Home Minister opined that Hindi should be accepted

JUDICIARY

eCourts Project
open
data policy. and granular data up to the Taluka level

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Q) How can biotechnology improve the

living standards of farmers? (2019)
Q) What are the present challenges

emerging technologies provide an

(2021)

A •

•
. and

Dhara Mustard •

• •

•
•
•
•

•
•
• •

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•
and

•
•
.
•

•
and

• .
•

• .
•

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THE MENACE OF STUBBLE BURNING

Syllabus: GS III - Environmental pollution and degradation

PYQ MAPPING WHY IN NEWS?

The Supreme Court directed Punjab, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan to stop
Q) What are the impediments in
stubble burning “forthwith”. The cabinet secretary has also directed the Punjab
disposing of the huge quantities of
administration to take effective action to stop further stubble burning in the
discarded solid wastes which are
remaining paddy harvest season.
continuously being generated? How do
we safely remove the toxic wastes that
WHAT LEADS TO STUBBLE BURNING?
have been accumulating in our habitable
environment?(2018) • Technological Reasons: The use of combined harvesters since 2000,
decreased the manual harvesting and this led to increased stubble problems.
Q) Coastal sand mining, whether legal or
While harvesting paddy manually, the stalk is cut from near the root but the
illegal, poses one of the biggest threats
combine harvesters leave stubbles that are half to one foot long.
to our environment. Analyse the impact
of sand mining along the Indian coasts, • Policy Issues: Punjab and Haryana were the test beds of India’s Green
revolution. Free electricity for agriculture since 1997 has ensured that
citing specific examples.(2019)
paddy remains viable through groundwater irrigation.
Q) Policy contradictions among various
» Earlier, farmers used to plant the water-intensive paddy crop around
competing sectors and stakeholders
March-May. The water used was largely groundwater as monsoon has
have resulted in inadequate ‘protection not begun in these months. To take away the pressure on groundwater,
and prevention of degradation’ to the the Punjab government passed Punjab Preservation of Subsoil Water
environment. Comment with relevant Act, 2009. This act mandatorily delayed the sowing and transplantation
illustration.(2018) of paddy to May-June i.e, to restrict its cultivation to monsoon.
FUN FACT
» It is estimated that if paddy is sown in April-May, producing a kilogram of rice would require 4,500 litres of
water, but if sowing dates are shifted to mid-June, the water requirement comes down to 1,500-2,000 litres.
» Punjab is blamed more than Haryana due to the paddy variety that is grown. Haryana grows the Basmati
variety which needs careful manual handling, but the Punjab grows the non-basmati PUSA 44 variety that
uses combine harvesters. Also, the size of farms is much larger in Punjab.

• Time constraints: But the delay in sowing has delayed the process of harvesting too. Earlier, the harvesting used to be over
by mid-October but this has now got pushed to November. But the farmers have to sow the winter wheat crop from the
first week of November until the middle of December.
» This short time available between rice harvesting and sowing of wheat (as delay in sowing wheat affects the wheat
crop) is the major reason behind the stubble burning. Farmers don't have sufficient time to clear the fields.
• Economic Reasons: Most of the farmers are poor. While cultivation of paddy and wheat is most economical due to
minimum support price, they have to bear an additional cost to get the field cleared manually or through other machines.
This comes with a premium due to lack of labourers due to high seasonal demand for this kind of work. It is also more
economical for farmers to burn stubble on field than getting it transported for other uses.
• Traditional Practices: Farmers in this region also have a traditional belief that burning crop residue will restore nutrients
back to the soil and stubble burning has been a practice for many years.
• Lack of Awareness: Some farmers may not be fully aware of the environmental and health hazards associated with
stubble burning.

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» Political reasons: Politicisation and blame-gaming and lack of effective policy for sustainable agriculture has
exacerbated the issue.

IMPACT OF STUBBLE BURNING

Air pollution: Soil fertility:
» According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences daily » The heat from burning rice straw penetrates about 1 cm
» Ministry of Earth Sciences »
data called Decision Support System, for Air Quality Man- into the ground, raising the temperature to 33.8-42.2
Decision Support System raising the temperature to 33.8-42.2
agement in Delhi, straw and stubble burning accounted for degrees. This kills the bacterial and fungal populations
35% of degrees.
35% of PM 2.5 in Delhi on November 3rd, 2023. and other organic matter that are important for fertile soil.
PM 2.5
» Stubble burning emits toxic pollutants like Carbon » The absence of “friendly” pests intensifies the wrath
»Monoxide (CO), methane (CH4), carcinogenic polycyclicCarbon »of “enemy” pests, making“friendly”
plantspests
more susceptible to wrath
Monoxide
aromatic (CO), methane
hydrocarbons, (CH4),
volatile carcinogenic
organic compounds polycyclic
(VOC). of “enemy” pests,
disease.
They form a thick blanket of smog. Climate change:
(VOC).
Health: » Stubble burning contributes to the release of greenhouse
Climate change:
Health: gases, including carbon dioxide and methane.
» A study by the Institute for Social and Economic Change, »Water Quality: greenhouse
»Bengaluru, estimated that people in rural Punjab spend » Thegases
ash generated from stubble burning can contaminate
Bengaluru,
Rs 7.6 crore every year on treatment for ailments caused water bodies
Water Quality:when it is washed into rivers and lakes by
Rs 7.6 crore
by stubble on treatment
burning. Air pollution forlinked
has been ailments
to lung rainfall and is called runoff contamination.
»
cancer, stroke, heart attack, and many other diseases.

not dispersed easily

in winter because of low wind speed and temperature, and high moisture.
•

• post monsoon winds are north-westerly,

• Temperature inversion:

GOVERNMENT INTERVENTIONS
• Crop Residue Management: National Policy for Management of Crop Residues (NPMCR) 2014 focus on preventing stubble
burning by optimising mechanisation, satellite monitoring, financial support for innovative ideas and project proposals.
• Crop Diversification: To reduce crop residue, Haryana initiated the Mera Pani-Meri Virasat program, offering Rs 7,000 per
acre to farmers diversifying from paddy. In the 2023 Budget, the Punjab government allocated ₹1,000 crore for a special
crop diversification scheme.

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• Crop Residue Utilisation: The Union Environment Ministry introduced a ₹50 crore scheme in 2022 to encourage the
establishment of paddy straw pelletisation and torrefaction plants by industrialists. Crop residue finds applications in
biofuels, organic fertilisers, and the paper and cardboard industries. Punjab mandates brick kilns to use stubble as fuel and
requires other plants to purchase stubble from farmers. Punjab’s efforts resulted in a significant 125% increase in paddy
straw usage from 2022 to 2023, reaching 4.5 million tonnes.
• Penalty: Banning of crop residue burning and penalty is being imposed on any offending farmer. Village and block-level
administrative officials are being used for enforcement.
• Public Awareness Campaigns to highlight the health effects of crop residue burning. Kisan camps are used for training and
workshops, apart from campaigns through various print media, televised shows and radio telecast, in informing farmers
about the alternative usage of crop residue.
• PUSA Decomposer: It is a bio-decomposer microbial consortium of fungal species (both in liquid and capsule forms)
developed by ICAR. It is effective for rapid in-situ decomposition of paddy straw.
• Easier use of machinery: To increase mechanisation from 55%, Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs) have been set up by various
state governments. The Government of India launched a mobile app to connect farmers with CHCs.
• Subsidy for machinery: Punjab government’s subsidy on the purchase of Crop residue management (CRM) machines.
Some important machines are:
» Happy Seeder (allows farmers to sow wheat without removing the previous crop's residue and helps in direct
seeding).
» Rotavator (used for land preparation and incorporation of crop stubble in the soil).
» Zero till seed drill (used for land preparations directly sowing of seeds in the previous crop stubble).
» Baler (used for collection of straw and making bales of the paddy stubble).
» Paddy Straw Chopper (cutting of paddy stubble for easily mixing with the soil).
» Reaper Binder (used for harvesting paddy stubble and making into bundles).

WAY FORWARD
• Community Involvement - Engaging local communities and involving them in the decision-making process can help create
a sense of ownership and responsibility, leading to more sustainable practices.
• Awareness and Education - Educating farmers about the environmental impact of stubble burning and providing
information about alternative methods can encourage them to adopt more sustainable practices voluntarily.
• Government Policies and Regulations - Strict enforcement of regulations against stubble burning and the implementation
of penalties for non-compliance can act as a deterrent.
• Research and Development - Investing in research and development to create more sustainable and efficient agricultural
practices, machinery, and technologies. Invention of low cost and low tech machinery that manages the straw at the village
level and helps farmers towards growing crops suited to their Agro-climatic zones.
• International Collaboration - Collaborating with international organisations and countries that have successfully addressed
similar issues can provide insights and support in finding effective solutions.
• State must promote alternative localised uses of stubble - like cattle feed, compost manure, roofing in rural areas, biomass
energy, mushroom cultivation, packing materials, fuel, paper, bio-ethanol and industrial production, etc.
• States must promote optimum use of CRM machines. Nearly 1.20 lakh seeder machines are available under the CRM
Scheme in Punjab and 76,000 in Haryana but are not fully utilised. Purchase of CRM machines must be brought under
schemes like the MUDRA yojana.
• Farm management: Zoning of areas with high stubble burning and implement coordinated effective action and give
financial incentives to farmers.

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CONCLUSION
The good news is that the number of stubble-burning incidents in the region are falling, according to the Consortium for
Research on Agroecosystem Monitoring and Modelling (run by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute). Agricultural institutes
and NGOs must be included in policy making and effective implementation. Stubble burning is now a matter of compulsion.
Innovative hackathons must be brought to find new and low cost alternative uses of stubble.

SAMPLE QUESTION
Q) Pollution is not a political game, this is a murder of the health of the people. Comment in light of the stubble burning
issue of North Indian states. (15 M)(250 W)

Your Notes
PRODUCTION LINKED INCENTIVE SCHEME
Syllabus: GS III - Indian Economy and issues relating to Planning, Mobilization of Resources, Growth, Development and Em-
ployment.

PYQ MAPPING
WHY IN NEWS?
Q) “Success of ‘Make in India’ programme
The Secretary to Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade
depends on the success of ‘Skill India’
recently stated that 80% funds (about $8 billion of the $10 billion) allocated by
programme and radical labour reforms.”
the Union government for the production of semiconductors manufacturing
Discuss with logical arguments. (2015)
under the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme remain unused.
Q) Justify the need for FDI for the
development of the Indian economy. INTRODUCTION
Why is there a gap between MOUs signed Launched in 2020 as part of the Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiative, the Production-
and actual FDIs? Suggest remedial steps Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme is a 1.97 lakh Crores rupees financial incentive
to be taken for increasing actual FDIs in program across 14 sectors.
India. (2016) It seeks to boost the global competitiveness of domestic manufacturing, nurture
global champions, and attract significant investments.
Q) Discuss the impact of FDI entry into
the multi-trade retail sector on supply The scheme provides incentive of 4-6% of sales volume of additional production
chain management in commodity trade in India from a base year. The incentive varies between sectors.
patterns of the economy. (2013)

NEED FOR PLI SCHEME

• Boost domestic manufacturing capacity, especially in sunrise and strategic sectors.
» The PLI scheme is likely to boost India's manufacturing output by $520 billion by 2026.
• Enhance exports competitiveness of domestically manufactured goods.
• Diversification of supply chains: By attracting foreign companies to invest in India, especially in the wake of companies
looking for China plus one strategy.
• Reduce Import dependency: To curb cheaper imports and reduce import bills.
» As per General Administration of Customs (GAC) in Beijing, as of January 2023, India’s imports from China accounted

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PLASTIC POLLUTION
Syllabus: GS III - Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment.

WHY IN NEWS?
PYQ MAPPING
The OECD released an interim report titled "Towards Eliminating Plastic
Q) Enumerate the National Water Policy Pollution by 2040: A Policy Scenario Analysis" ahead of the third session of
of India. Taking river Ganges as an the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution (INC3)
example, discuss the strategies which in Nairobi, Kenya.
may be adopted for river water pollution
control and management. What are the INTRODUCTION
legal provisions for management and Plastic pollution wreaks havoc on ecosystems and human health. Despite
handling of hazardous wastes in India? increased public awareness, current policies haven't effectively curbed the
(2013) issue. The 2023 OECD interim report indicates a significant rise, with 21
million tonnes of plastic leaked into the environment in 2022—nearly one-
Q) The Namami Gange and National third more than a decade ago.
mission for clean Ganga (NMCG)
programmes and causes of mixed PRESENT SCENARIO
results from the previous schemes. • Single-use plastics (SUPs), lasting less than five years, contribute over
What quantum leaps can help preserve half of plastic waste, with 40% from packaging, 12% from consumer
the river Ganga better than incremental products, and 11% from textiles (Global Plastics Outlook 2022). Plastic
inputs? (2015) production, responsible for a substantial 3.8% of global greenhouse gas
emissions (1.9 GT CO2 in 2022), poses an environmental challenge.
Q) What are the impediments in
disposing of the huge quantities of • Despite a 2.2% reduction in plastic use in 2020 due to the COVID-19
discarded solid wastes which are economic downturn, the surge in personal protective equipment and
other SUPs led to increased plastic litter. Projections suggest that while
continuously being generated? How do
primary plastic use may stabilise by 2040, leakage will remain significant
we safely remove the toxic wastes that
at 12 MT.
have been accumulating in our habitable
environment? (2018) PLASTICS THREATS - ACROSS VARIOUS DOMAINS
SHORT TAKE • Water Pollution: Plastic accumulation in rivers and oceans is predicted
OECD, established in 1961, is an to surge by one-third, from 6 million tonnes in 2020 to over 9 million
intergovernmental organization fostering tonnes in 2040.
economic progress and global trade. • Land Pollution: Plastic waste on land contributes to terrestrial
With 38 member countries, its mission is acidification, emitting harmful gases. Greenhouse gas emissions from
to shape policies promoting prosperity, plastic production are projected to increase by 60% in 2040, surpassing
equality, opportunity, and well-being for 2020 levels.
all.
• Air Pollution: Incineration of plastic waste releases toxic gases, such
Plasticosis is a fibrotic disease caused by as dioxins and furans, contributing to air pollution and endangering
ingesting small plastic pieces, leading to vegetation and human and animal health.
inflammation in the digestive tract.
• Threat to Wildlife: Global wildlife faces entanglement, plasticosis-related
deaths, and microplastic ingestion. Studies on Albatross in Midway Atoll
a ct
Fun F reveal that 99% of birds have plastic in their stomachs.
As of 2021, plastic straws from waste, • Human Health: Plastics release toxins affecting the endocrine, immune,
if laid lengthwise, could wrap around and nervous systems. Microplastics, entering the body through skin and
the world 2.8 million times.
inhalation, are found in human placentas. A University of Newcastle
study estimates the average person consumes 5mg of plastics per week,
equivalent to a credit card.

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CIRCULAR ECONOMY
» Circular Economy aims to eliminate waste and promote sustainable resource use in production and consumption.
» This model, embraced by India, emphasises reducing congestion and pollution while maximising resource efficiency.
» Through sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing, and recycling, the circular economy minimises the consumption
of finite resources.
» The approach also fosters new business models and entrepreneurial ventures, driving the transition towards self-
reliance.
» Government initiatives like the Plastic Waste Management Rules, e-Waste Management Rules, Construction and
Demolition Waste Management Rules, and Metals Recycling Policy support this circular economy framework.

INDIA'S MEASURES AGAINST PLASTIC POLLUTION

• Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2021: Bans selected single-use plastic items with high littering potential
by 2022.
• Mascot 'Prakriti': Promotes awareness for sustainable practices and effective Plastic Waste Management.
• National Dashboard: Monitors progress in eliminating single-use plastic and managing plastic waste.
• EPR Portal for Plastic Packaging: Enhances accountability and transparency for compliance with Extended Producer
Responsibility.
• Mobile App for SUPs Grievance Redressal: Empowers citizens to monitor and report the sale, usage, and manufacturing
of single-use plastics in their area.

UNEA 5.2 Resolution 14: Aiming for an international binding instrument to

comprehensively end plastic pollution, especially in oceans.

Plastic Free Rivers and Seas for South Asia Project: Led by World Bank, Parley
for the Oceans, and SACEP, it targets marine plastic pollution through eco-
GLOBAL ACTIONS innovation in South Asia.
AGAINST PLASTIC
POLLUTION INCLUDE:- Closing the Loop: UN ESCAP and Japan's project addressing global plastic waste
leakage into oceans from cities in Asia and the Pacific.

G7 Commitment (April 2023): G7 Ministers pledged to eliminate additional

plastic pollution by 2040.

CHALLENGES IN PLASTIC MANAGEMENT

• Growing Demand: Global plastic use is set to triple by • Macroplastic Leakage: Leakage is expected to increase
2060 due to economic and population growth. by 50% by 2040, reaching 30 million tonnes per year.
• Poor Waste Management: Only 9% of global plastic • Lack of Alternatives: Absence of affordable alternatives
waste is recycled, with 22% improperly disposed of, hampers reduced plastic use.
causing pollution.
• Market Challenges: The lack of a well-developed recycled
• Unorganised Sector: In India, 68% of plastic waste is plastics market poses obstacles.
collected by rag pickers instead of authorities.
• Circular Economy Gap: The absence of a robust circular
• Microplastic Menace: The rise of microplastics poses a economy for plastics impedes sustainable practices.
significant environmental threat.

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TO COMBAT PLASTIC POLLUTION

• Reduce Demand: Advocate for longer product lifespans, • International Cooperation: Increase global collaboration
mandatory reuse, and bans on problematic plastics like and financing, especially in lower-income countries.
single-use plastics.
• India Plastics Pact: Led by CII and WWF India, this
• Improve Waste Management: Enhance plastic waste initiative unites stakeholders to shift towards a circular
collection, sorting, and recycling. plastics economy.
• Innovative Initiatives: • Policy Interventions: Implement taxes and regulations to
discourage primary plastic production.
» Telangana’s Mulugu district launched 'Give 1 Kg
Plastic Waste To Get 1 Kg Rice'. » Introduce landfill and incineration taxes for recycling
promotion.
» Kerala's 'Suchitwa Sagaram' initiative involves
fishermen collecting and processing sea plastic, » Enforce EPR for packaging and durables.
yielding about 80 tonnes since 2017.
» Implement Pay-as-you-throw schemes.
• Address Sea-Based Leakage: Tackle sources like
» Market Strengthening: Support recycled plastic
abandoned fishing gear to prevent plastic leakage into
markets.
the sea.
• Infrastructure Investment: Boost funding for effective
• Technological Innovation: Tirupur cotton spinning mills
plastic waste collection, sorting, and treatment.
in Tamil Nadu transform used PET bottles into polyester
fabric and garments.

CASE STUDIES
» In Chhattisgarh's Ambikapur, the 'Garbage Cafe' by Corporation, exchanges plastic for free meals, providing a full meal for
one kilogram and a free breakfast for half a kilogram.
» In Assam's Akshar School, plastic waste is accepted as an alternative school fee to discourage burning.
» In Panaji, Goa, the 'Maka naka plastic' campaign by Sanjiv Khandelwal, founder of Sensible Earth, transforms donated
clothes into bags, reducing reliance on single-use plastics.

CONCLUSION
The high lifecycle cost of plastic poses a serious threat to achieving SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life on Water), and SDG
15 (Life on Land). Curtailing plastic proliferation is crucial for a sustainable future for both the environment and humanity.

SAMPLE QUESTION
Q) What are the impediments to tackling the burgeoning plastic pollution? Suggest measures effectively protect our habitable
environment from the plague of plastic pollution? (15 M)(250 W)

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CYCLONE MICHAUNG AND EFFECT ON INDUSTRIES

Syllabus: GS I - Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc. Geo-
graphical features and their location-changes in critical geographical features

PYQ MAPPING WHY IN NEWS?

Q) Explain the mechanism and Cyclone Michaung (name suggested by Myanmar) made landfall in Tamil
occurrence of cloudburst in the Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. The devastation caused by Cyclone Michaung in
context of the Indian subcontinent. Chennai has intensely affected the people.
Discuss two recent examples. (2022)
Q) The frequency of urban floods due WHY IS CHENNAI AFFECTED SEVERELY?
to high intensity rainfall is increasing • Encroachments on land and
over the years. Discussing the water bodies: A study by IIT
reasons for urban floods. highlight Madras found that two decades
the mechanisms for preparedness to ago, about 650 water bodies
reduce the risk during such events. existed in the Chennai region
(2016) and only a fraction remains now.
• Building plan violation:
SHORT TAKE Construction of flats and
industrial buildings without considering the water bodies undermining
What is a cyclone?
the Coastal Regulation Act and its 2019 amendments.
» Cyclones are large-scale weather
• Urbanisation: Rapid urbanisation, both planned and unplanned, are
systems characterised by low-
responsible for flooding. For instance, the construction of flyovers,
pressure centres, rotating winds,
widening of roads, and urban settlements - or what is called ‘grey’
and atmospheric instability.
infrastructure - in a planned manner, but in water-logged areas.
» They are known by different
names in various regions, such as
hurricanes (Atlantic and eastern
Pacific), typhoons (northwestern
Pacific), and tropical cyclones
(southwestern Pacific and Indian
Ocean).

A comparison of Lake Puzhal (aka Red Hills Lake) in 2018 and 2019.

• Waste management systems: Improper waste disposal practices lead

to clogged drains and waterways filled with solid waste. It prevents
water from flowing freely, exacerbating flood risks.
• Geographical factors: Low lying topography, draining of rivers from
Western Ghats
to East coast
and heavy
precipitation in a
short span from
the Monsoons
and other
climate change
related factors.

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DIFFERENCE FROM THE 2015 DELUGE

The 2015 urban flood in Chennai was markedly different from the 2023 deluge.
• Monsoon - The 2015 crisis began when an intense North-West Monsoon (November 2015 was the wettest month in
100 years) led to overflow of the Chembarambakkam Reservoir (an artificial lake constructed by Rajendra Chola).
• Poor reservoir management - The authorities overlooked the warnings and suddenly released huge amounts of
water into the Adyar River without alerting the public or emergency services.
• Therefore, the 2015 flood was more a result of reservoir mismanagement rather than the current flooding which
is a direct result of the cyclonic storm.

HOW DID THE DISASTER AFFECT INDUSTRIAL UNITS?

• Expensive electrical machinery equipped with sensors has been rendered
useless by the floodwaters.
• Administration shut the electricity as a precaution as flooding started, to
prevent shocks.
• Approximately, 20-30 tonnes of zinc ash, intended for recycling valued at Rs 1.5
crores rupees has been wrecked.
• IT companies have taken the hardest hit with flooded facilities keeping
employees out of office. Even when power was restored, there was no Internet
in many parts of the city as cables were cut.
• MSMEs affected cannot receive any compensation, since they are not
included in the eligible list to receive compensation under the National Disaster
Management Authority (NDMA).
» These units, often lacking the comprehensive infrastructure advantages of their larger counterparts, have
sustained greater damages, and disruption.

HOW DID THE INDUSTRIES COPE UP?

• IT companies have predominantly switched to work-from-home modes, barring critical operations.
• According to the state government, over 90% have resumed operations - This swift recovery has been attributed to
the robust infrastructure facilities like land, power, water, roads, and communication networks that cater primarily
to large and medium-scale industries.

MEASURES TAKEN:
• Planned Discharge: The surplus water from the city reservoirs was discharged based on the Regional Meteorological
Department’s accurate cyclone forecasts and helped avert flash floods in the major rivers during the historic rain
caused by Cyclone Michaung.
• Pre-Emptying: The government has shifted from its conservative approach in reservoir management. It has been
experimenting on pre-emptying a marginal amount of storage ahead of the peak monsoon for the past two years.
• Budget for flood mitigation: The Tamil Nadu government unveiled programmes costing Rs 434 crore.
» This includes flood mitigation works like formation of canals between reservoirs, and widening of channels.
» A mobile application to be developed to monitor the encroachments in water bodies and to examine the
quality of water with the support of artificial intelligence and Geographic Information System
• Chennai city water supply augmentation and flood mitigation resilient to climate change scheme: The government
is planning to implement a scheme with dual intention of creating an additional storage capacity of 20.5tmcft to
meet drinking water requirements and to mitigate the floods to a maximum extent in vulnerable areas.

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WAY FORWARD
• Expedite the drainage revamp system: The Tamil Nadu government is constructing a stormwater drainage system
across Chennai and the city administration has claimed that the areas with the new drains could escape flooding.
But, nearly two-thirds of Chennai remains to be connected with the new network
• Total ban on construction projects on wetlands: Wetlands act as sponges and soak up water and recharge aquifers.
They can also mitigate Chennai’s other pressing problem like drinking water shortage.
• Timely cyclone alerts: The IMD must provide early alerts and it must be given wide publicity during monsoon
periods.
• Medical help desk: People might have many health related issues and some may
get affected by the calamity itself. Hence, medical support is very important.
• Cut and cover channels: Also called the straight cut, these are permanent
solutions in drainage. These are underwater tunnels and pipelines to transport
water from a water surplus reservoir to a deficient one to prevent flooding.
• Dredging: An important factor in removing sludge and silt from reservoirs must
be done periodically to prevent flooding. This must be done without affecting
the marshlands, and hence this needs expert advice/environmental assessment
before commencing.
• Community engagement and capacity building: Regular training programs and
workshops to build the capacity of communities, local leaders, and volunteers in
disaster management techniques must be conducted.

CONCLUSION
The recent chennai floods when compared with the 2015 floods were not severe and the government has taken some
steps to prevent such calamities. But the issue is far from over and every vulnerable section of the society that now
includes the MSMEs must be protected through policy as they are the backbone of the Indian economy after the start
of the Make in India program and also employ a huge population who set the wheel of economy in motion.

SAMPLE QUESTION
Q) Development without proper town planning is continuing to be a catastrophe in India. Comment on the basis of
the recent chennai floods. (10 M)(150 W)

Your Notes

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CONCLUSION
The latest security breach must be an important lesson not only to the centre but also to the states to focus on the
security strategies and counter emerging threats and protect the security interests of the nation.

SAMPLE QUESTION
Q) The incidents of December 2001 and December 2023 are a grim reminder that the monitoring and upgradation of
Parliament’s security infrastructure need attention. Comment..(10 M)(150 W)

UNFCCC COP 28
Syllabus: GS III - Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment.

PYQ MAPPING WHY IN NEWS?

Q) Explain the purpose of the Green UNFCCC CoP 28 held in Dubai with half a million registrations, 77,000
Grid Initiative launched at the World delegates, 189 countries, concluded.
Leaders Summit of the COP26 UN
Climate Change Conference in INTRODUCTION
Glasgow in November 2021. When The “Conference of the Parties” (COP) is the global decision-making body
was this idea first floated in the of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) which
International Solar Alliance (ISA)? meets every year to review progress and decide on the path forward.
(2021) COP 28 was hosted by the United Arab Emirates in Dubai.

Q) Describe the major outcomes of

MAJOR OUTCOMES
the 26th session of the Conference
of the Parties (COP) to the United Loss and Damage Fund (LDF): Operationalisation of Loss and Damage
Nations Framework Convention on Fund to provide financial help to countries trying to recover from
climate-induced disasters.
Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are
the commitments made by India in » Funding commitments worth about US$ 800 million had been
this conference? (2021) made by several countries, including hosts UAE
Fossil fuel phase-out: The COP 28 called upon countries to contribute
SHORT TAKE
towards “transitioning away” from fossil fuels, “so as to achieve net
• Methane: It is the most widespread zero by 2050”.
greenhouse gas apart from CO2,
accounting for nearly 25% of all Global Renewables And Energy Efficiency Pledge: Signed by 118
emissions and about 80 times countries to triple global installed capacity of renewable energy
more potent than CO2 in causing to 11,000 GW, and doubling of annual improvements in energy
global warming. efficiency from around 2% to over 4% every year until 2030” .

• Nairobi work programme(NWP): » It is expected to reduce 7 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent

Established at COP 11 NWP strives emissions.
to assist countries, especially » However, it is not legally binding and India and China are not
developing, least developed and parties.
small island developing states, to
Global stocktake (GST): It is a comprehensive five-yearly assessment
improve their understanding and
of where the world was in its fight against climate change and what
assessment of impacts, vulnerability
more needed to be done to meet the climate objectives. The GST is
and adaptation of climate change. It
mandated by the Paris Agreement to be a periodic exercise, the first
aids to make informed decisions on
one in 2023.
practical adaptation actions.

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Phase-down of coal: The decisions taken in the Glasgow conference in 2021 were reiterated.
Tripling nuclear energy: 20+ countries pledged to tripling nuclear energy by 2050 from the current 369GW.
Methane emission cuts: It seeks to accelerate and substantially reduce non-carbon-dioxide emissions globally,
including in particular methane emissions by 2030.
Global Goal on Adaptation: COP 28 included a specific target to accelerate the use of ecosystem-based adaptation
by 2030, shed light on the challenges faced by mountain ecosystems and proposed concrete steps for intervention
in 2024 under the Nairobi Work Programme.
INDIA- LED INITIATIVES PLEDGES
• Global River Cities Alliance (GRCA): Launched by National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), GRCA is a step in global
efforts towards river conservation and sustainable water management. GRCA is a first of its kind alliance covering
275+ global river-cities in 11 countries, international funding agencies and knowledge management partners.
• LeadIT 2.0: It focuses on inclusive and just industry transition, co-development and transfer of low-carbon
technology, and financial assistance to emerging economies.
• Green Credit Initiative: The initiative focuses on creating carbon sinks through people's participation.
• Emission target: India pledged to bring emission intensity down by 45% by 2030 and increase the share of non-
fossil fuels to 50%.
ISSUES
• Inadequate funding: The LDF has only raised about incumbent on every country to individually triple its
$800 million while trillions are required to address current installed capacity, it isn’t clear how this tripling
climate impacts. would be ensured.
• Research shows that 55 vulnerable countries have • Methane emission: No targets for methane emission
suffered $ 525 billion combined climate crisis-fuelled cuts for the year 2030 were decided. Since agriculture
losses in the last 20 years. The number is estimated to and livestock are one of the major sources, several
reach $ 580 billion per year by 2030. countries, including India, are extremely opposed to
any mandate to cut methane emissions.
• Fossil fuel: Neither a time schedule nor a target was
o
fixed for phasing out fossil fuel. Even the term “fossil • Death knell for 1.5 C: The target of keeping global
o
fuel phase-out” had not been used. warming at 1.5 C is rapidly slipping out of hand, with
every global assessment showing that the world is not
• Phase-down of coal: No decisions were taken on how
doing enough.
coal phase-down is to be measured, or from what
baseline. • No roadmap: No road map towards new targets in
2025 was drawn.
• Tripling renewable energy target: Since it is not

WAY FORWARD
• Tangible indicators: Quantifiable and measurable should be identified to measure progress on each of the global
goals established at COP 28.
» For example, to fast-track a just, orderly, and equitable energy transition, the percentage of energy generated
from renewable sources in a country is an apt indicator.
• Climate finance mechanism: The UNCTAD has recommended reforms of the international financial system to get
more climate adaptation funds flowing to developing countries.
» According to UNCTAD, the annual climate adaptation costs in developing countries could reach $300 billion in
2030 and as much as $500 billion by 2050 if mitigation targets are breached.
• Binding commitments: The commitments should be made binding, with clearly specified timelines and targets.
• Drawing up roadmaps: Roadmaps should be created with targets for 2025.
• Renewable energy investment: Investing at vast scale in renewables, encouraging domestic production of solar
technologies, and ramping up production of green hydrogen will help triple renewable energy for India.

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CONCLUSION
The annual climate conference COP 28 saw some key resolutions on fossil fuels, methane emissions, funds to fight global
warming, among others but it ended leaving almost all the problems where they were before. As said by prime minister
Modi, collective efforts are necessary to protect everyone's interests and the welfare of the world.

SAMPLE QUESTION
Q) Discuss the major outcomes and shortcomings of the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Mention the initiatives launched by India in this
conference.(10 M)(150 W)

Your Notes

ETHICS - CASE STUDY

Q) You are the senior principal scientist of a central research institute. After 2 decades of research, you have invented a
medicine that can cure the deadly liver cirrhosis. The medicine was successful during two stages of trial. But the third
trial may take around one year due to bureaucratic delay. In this time you are being approached by a couple to save
their daughter who is in a serious condition affected by this disease. You are confident that this medicine can bring
her back to life if given immediately. As per rule, the medicine can only be given after the third trial. And if you give the
medicine, you stand a chance to loose your entire research and even face imprisonment. (20 marks)
a. What are the ethical issues involved? (Answer in 250 words)
b. What are the possible options available to you?
c. What should the principal scientist do in this situation? Justify your answer with suitable arguments.

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DEFINING FORESTS IN INDIA

Syllabus: GS II - Judiciary, Government Interventions
GS III - Conservation

PYQ MAPPING WHY IN NEWS?

Q) How does the draft Environment Recently, the Supreme Court has directed the government to follow the
Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, “broad and all-encompassing” definition of forest as laid down in its
2020 differ from the existing EIA 1996 judgement in the T N Godavarman case until a consolidated record
Notification, 2006? (2020) of all kinds of forests across the country is prepared.
Q) How does biodiversity vary in INTRODUCTION
India? How is the Biological Diversity
Act,2002 helpful in the conservation of The three-judge Bench interim order was passed in the backdrop
flora and fauna? (2018) of petitions that challenged the 2023 amendments to the Forest
(Conservation) Act, 1980 (FCA) on the ground that the modifications had
“substantially diluted” the definition of forest, and had reduced the ambit
of the Act. The Court listed the petitions for final disposal in the month
of July 2024.

WHAT WAS THE 1996 JUDGMENT AND WHAT THE APEX COURT SAYS NOW?
• The 1996 judgement stated that the word ‘forest’ must be understood according to its dictionary meaning and
also any area recorded as forest in the Government record irrespective of the ownership.
• This description covers all statutorily recognised forests, whether designated as reserved, protected or
otherwise.
• The recent (2024) judgement reaffirmed this principle saying that the dictionary meaning of forests had been
adopted by the court to align with Parliament’s intent behind legislating the FCA in 1980.
• The 1980 statute was enacted to check further deforestation leading to ecological imbalance.
• The court also iterated that the dictionary meaning will continue till the States and union territories prepare a
“consolidated record” of all the lands recorded as ‘forest’ in government records, including forest-like areas,
unclassed and community forest lands.

WHAT IS THE FOREST CONSERVATION ACT OF 1980?

The provisions of this legislation predominantly applied to tracts of forest land recognised as such by the Indian
Forest Act, or by States in their records since 1980.
» Illegal timber-felling at Gudalur in Tamil Nadu led the Supreme Court to deliver the 1996 Judgement.
» This Judgement brought in the concept of ‘deemed forests,’ or forest-like tracts that weren’t officially classified
as such in government or revenue records but looked like them.
An estimated 4 million hectares of forest land had been diverted from 1951-75 and after the Act came into force,
the average annual rate of diversion dropped to about 22,000 hectares or about a tenth.

WHAT ARE THE ISSUES OF THE FOREST CONSERVATION AMENDMENT ACT, 2023?
Against the concept of deemed forests: According to the Section 1A inserted by this amendment, a land has to be
either notified as a forest or specifically recorded as a forest in a government record to qualify as a “forest”.
» The dictionary meaning of forests was thus taken out.
» The petitioners pointed out that the new amended definition would shave off about 1.99 lakh square km of
forest land from the protection accorded under the category of ‘forest’.

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Greenlight for destructive infra: The government can construct security measures in forest areas, especially within
100 kilometres of international borders or the Line of Control or Line of Actual Control.
Economy over Environment: Section 5
of the 2023 Amendment Act facilitates
economic activities in forests, such
as ecotourism and safari, which were
previously restricted.
» For instance, the zoo-safari
project announced by the Haryana
government in the ecologically
sensitive Aravalli region.
Violation of Forest Rights: The Act
exempts a large number of projects from the clearance process. This means that forest-dwelling people will no
longer be consulted.
» This violates the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006,
which mandates obtaining free, prior, and informed consent from local communities through their gram sabhas.

HOW ARE FORESTS DEFINED BY THE STATES?

Based on surveys and reports by expert committees different states have interpreted ‘forests’ differently. This is natural,
given the wide variety of forests and constituent plants in India.
Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh define forest as a tract that spans a minimum of 10 hectares and is covered
with naturally growing timber, fuel wood and yielding trees and has a density of 200 trees or more per hectare.
Goa defines a forest as a patch of land having at least 75% covered with forest species.
Kerala defines forests as any land principally covered with naturally grown trees and includes any forest statutorily
recognized and declared as reserved forest, protected forest or otherwise, but does not include any land which is
used principally for the cultivation of crops.
Some States have no parameters at all.
Because of varying definitions of deemed forest, estimates of their territorial spread in India range from 1% - 28% of
India’s official forest area of 80 million ha.

WAY FORWARD
Defining: A proper definition must be put by each state by balancing the need for development and upholding
conservation of forest reserves of all forms.
Geo-referencing: The government must release Geo-referenced district forest maps containing the details of the
location and boundary of each plot of land that may be defined as ‘forest’.
» The SCs Lafarge judgement (2011) asked the MoEFCC and State Governments to compile and publish geo-
referenced district forest maps.
Robust Environmental Legislation: There is a dire need for robust environmental legislation as India grapples with
the results of unchecked development.
» For Instance, the sinking of Joshimath, the devastating floods in Himachal Pradesh and Tamil Nadu etc.

CONCLUSION
The aim for economic gains must not shade the need for a healthy ecosystem for future generation’s survival. The
government must plan and define forest in such a way that it promotes sustainable development.

SAMPLE QUESTION
Q) The preservation of the environment must be at the forefront of national policies. Discuss on the basis of recent
developments over the Forest Conservation (Amendment) Act of 2023. (10 M)(150 W)

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HUMAN - ANIMAL CONFLICTS

Syllabus: GS III - Environmental Conservation,wildlife protection, and sustainable development

SHORT TAKES WHY IN NEWS?

Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC): Amid repeated deaths from animal attacks and rising anger over them,
Human-wildlife conflict or Human- Kerala on March 6, 2024, declared man-animal conflict as a state-specific
Animal conflict occurs when disaster, becoming the first state in the country to do so. Similar human-
interactions between humans and animal conflicts have been reported from other parts of India leading to
wildlife result in adverse outcomes, large public outcry.
including the loss of property,
livelihoods, and even human lives. INTRODUCTION
It occurs where the needs of human
India with its second-largest human population and diverse wildlife, faces
beings and wildlife meet at a common
a complex challenge: balancing development with wildlife conservation.
point, like in the case of space, crops
This global issue demands innovative solutions to ensure humans and
and other natural resources.
wildlife can coexist peacefully.

OVERVIEW
• Kerala Elephant Attacks: Within the 2 days of March 2024, Kerala reported an elderly woman’s death due to
elephant attack at her home, death of an autorickshaw driver due to wild boar attack and a death of a 70-year old
farmer due to wild gaur attack on his farmland.
• Leopard Attacks in Kashmir: In June 2022, a wild bear died from electrocution after
venturing near human settlements in Srinagar. This incident reflects the complex issue
of HWC in Kashmir, where leopards also pose a threat, particularly to livestock. A case
in 2020 involved villagers killing a leopard in retaliation for attacks on children.
• Monkey Business of Agra: In 2018, Agra's famed Taj Mahal faced an unusual threat: a
gang of macaques. Emboldened by tourist handouts, the monkeys turned aggressive,
snatching food and attacking visitors. This "monkey business" forced officials to
explore sterilization and relocation, highlighting the challenges of wildlife in bustling
cities.
• A sobering picture emerges from government data: NCRB data (Dec. 2023) shows
a worrying 19% rise in animal attack deaths and injuries in 2022 compared to 2021
across India.

REASONS FOR HUMAN - ANIMAL CONFLICTS

Habitat loss and fragmentation: Habitat loss pushes animals out, forcing encounters with humans. Uncontrolled
construction fragments migration corridors, like cutting highways through backyards, causing wildlife to seek refuge
in our settlements
» Eg: Assam's Kaziranga Park, fragmented by dams, tea plantations, and railways, squeezes elephant habitat.
Blocked migration routes force them into villages and farms.
Degraded Food Sources: Non-native trees like acacia, mangium and eucalyptus in forests starve wildlife. Low-quality
leaves force them to search outside their habitat for food, risking encounters with humans.
» Eg: Global warming has made food scarce inside forests particularly during winter. This makes animals venture
out.
Shifting Farming Practices: Less crop variety in farms starves wildlife. Forced by a shrinking food menu within their
habitat, animals raid nearby farms, sparking conflict.
» Eg: Coastal India's cashew farms, replacing diverse crops, feed monkeys seasonally. But once the harvest ends,
hungry monkeys raid nearby farms for fruits and vegetables, causing conflict with farmers facing crop losses.

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Easy prey: People living near forest fringes and their resources
become easy prey for animals particularly the children and the
elderly. Eg: Tigers attack domesticated hen and goats.
Unplanned tourism: The increasing eco-tourism initiatives which are
largely unplanned causes negative interactions. Eg: vehicles allowed
into the core of Muthanga Wildlife sanctuary, fire at the adventure
tourism spot at Chembra Peak in Western Ghats etc.

Changes that Kerala wants in WLPA Act:

Kerala is advocating for two key changes to the Wildlife Protection Act (WLPA) of 1972 to address human-wildlife conflict
(HWC).
1. Decentralized Decision-Making:
Current System: Tigers and elephants are protected under Schedule 1 of Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. They cannot
be hunted or declared a vermin. The Section 11(1)(a) of Act, however, empowers the Chief Wildlife Warden (CWLW)
of a state to grant permission for culling or translocation of a dangerous schedule 1 animal.
Kerala's Demand: Kerala only has one CWLW. Kerala seeks central power to designate Chief Forest Conservators
(CCFs) (which Kerala has 5 for each forest region) to cull wild animals causing property damage, enabling faster
response to Human-Wildlife Conflict.
2. Classifying Wild Boar as Vermin:
Current Status: Wild boars are listed in Schedule II of the WLPA, which offers them legal protection but may be
declared a vermin under central notification.
Kerala's Demand: Kerala seeks central approval to label wild boar "vermin" under section 62 of the act in some
areas. This allows local control to cull boar populations, reducing crop damage and improving Human-Wildlife
Conflict management

WH DID KERALA DECLARE IT AS STATE- HOW DECLARING IT AS A STATE

DISASTER DISASTER CHANGES THINGS
A disaster declaration can be made by the central Allows for greater state control: Managing man-
government (usually when a large population of India animal conflict is the forest department's job. But
is affected) or by the state when a specific region of the once it is declared a state-specific disaster, the state
country or state is affected. disaster management authority deals with it. This
is headed by the Chief Minister. Section 72 of the
Kerala declared human-animal conflict (HWC) a state-
Disaster Management Act says that the provisions of
specific disaster due to a convergence of escalating
this Act will have an overriding effect on any other
dangers.
law during the specific period that a disaster has been
Mounting Casualties: According to Kerala's Economic declared.
Review 2022-23, Kerala reported 8,873 human-
Faster decision making: Once an issue is declared
wildlife conflict incidents in 2022-23, with 98 human
a state-specific disaster or a national disaster, the
casualties.
disaster management authority can take quick
Economic devastation: Elephants raiding crops decisions and actions overriding all other norms.
and destroying property were causing significant Also, district collectors can directly intervene in their
economic hardship for farmers. The state needed capacity as the chairman of the district disaster body.
a way to address these financial losses and protect
Lesser judicial delays: Usually interested parties file
livelihoods.
cases in courts against forest department actions,
Public Outcry: The frequency and severity of HWC like tranquilising of dangerous animals, in courts. As
incidents sparked public outrage. There has also been per section 71 of the Disaster Management Act, no
a delay in providing compensation. court (except the Supreme Court or a High Court)
Limited Response Mechanisms: Existing processes shall have jurisdiction over decisions of the Disaster
for managing HWC were slow and cumbersome. Management authorities.

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WAY FORWARD
Empower Communities: Promote alternative livelihoods and sustainable practices to reduce dependence on forest
resources. For example: Kaziranga National Park in India faces HWC with elephants raiding crops. To address this,
communities are shifting to Eri silk cultivation, a practice that uses elephant-deterring castor leaves and provides
economic security, reducing conflict.
Future-Proof Conservation: Rehabilitating degraded habitats and creating wildlife
corridors can help reduce conflict by providing natural habitats for animals and
minimizing human-wildlife interactions. For example, in areas where elephants
frequently raid crops, restoring their migratory routes can prevent conflicts with
farmers.
Early Warning Systems: In conflict zones like Nanda Devi, camera traps track
wildlife. Alerts warn villagers, allowing them to scare away animals and protect
crops
Barrier fencing and deterrents: Solar-powered fences like those in Karnataka's
Wayanad deter elephants. Additionally, chili-grenade launchers or similar
deterrents scare away animals approaching farms, minimizing conflict.
Prompt and improved compensation: No states have a comprehensive law regarding compensation in HAC. They
use ad-hoc measures and rules which cause delays and retaliatory attacks on animals by locals. For eg, there are
more than 8,231 compensation claims that are still pending with the Kerala Forest Department as of 2023. There is
a need for a single comprehensive law with standard criteria in this regard.
Research and Monitoring: Continuous research on human-wildlife interactions, including tracking animal
movements, monitoring crop raiding patterns, and assessing the effectiveness of mitigation measures, is essential
for developing evidence-based strategies to mitigate conflict.
» For example, radio collaring tigers in Corbett National Park tracks their movements, identifying high-conflict
zones. This data helps forest officials develop strategies to minimize human-tiger encounters

CONCLUSION
Human wildlife conflict necessitates a multi-pronged approach. Empowering communities, fostering coexistence through
knowledge sharing, and future-proofing conservation plans are crucial. Collaboration between stakeholders and a One
Health approach are essential for achieving sustainable human-wildlife coexistence.

SAMPLE QUESTION
Q) Elucidate Human-Wildlife Conflict & factors for its rise in India. Analyze socio-economic & ecological impacts.
Suggest solutions for mitigation & coexistence. (15 M)(250 W)

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INDIAN CITIES CONTINUES TO BE POLLUTED

Syllabus: GS III - Environment, Ecology, Biodiversity, and Disaster Management

PYQ MAPPING WHY IN NEWS?

Q) What is oil pollution? What are its A report issued by a Swiss air quality monitoring organisation ranked
impacts on the marine ecosystem? In
India as the third most polluted nation in 2023, following Bangladesh
what way is oil pollution particularly
and Pakistan.
harmful for a country like India?(2023)
Q) Discuss global warming and INTRODUCTION
mention its effects on the global
climate. Explain the control measures Among the top 50 most polluted cities globally, India dominated with
to bring down the level of greenhouse 42 cities featured in the report. Begusarai claimed the title of the most
gases which cause global warming, polluted metropolitan area in 2023, succeeded by Guwahati and then
in light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997. Delhi in the rankings.
(2022).
Q) What are the impediments in OVERVIEW
disposing the huge quantities of
Delhi's PM2.5 levels rose from 89.1 to 92.7 micrograms per cubic metre,
discarded solid wastes which are
intensifying its air pollution challenge. The city, known for leading IQ Air's
continuously being generated? How
capital cities list for PM2.5 from 2018 to 2022, saw New Delhi rise to
do we remove safely the toxic wastes
second place globally in 2023. This shift underscored a significant change
that have been accumulating in our
in the pollution scenario, drawing global attention to the issue.
habitable environment? (2018).

REASONS FOR AIR POLLUTION

Crop Burning: Crop burning in nearby states like Punjab and Haryana, particularly during harvest, pollutes Delhi's air.
Farmers set fire to stubble, releasing harmful pollutants like methane (CH4), carbon monoxide (CO), volatile organic
compounds (VOC) and carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Vehicular Emissions: The sheer volume of vehicles on Delhi’s roads contributes significantly to air pollution. Exhaust
emissions from cars, buses, and trucks release pollutants like nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM).
Geographical Factors: Delhi's geographical location exacerbates its air pollution problem. Being landlocked and
situated in a basin-like terrain, Delhi experiences temperature inversions, trapping pollutants close to the ground.
Industrial Pollution: Delhi's proximity to industrial areas also contributes to its air pollution woes. Industries emit
pollutants such as sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), and volatile organic
compounds (VOCs).
» For Example, Industrial clusters in areas like Mundka, Okhla, and Wazirpur release pollutants into the air,
worsening air quality in and around Delhi.
Effect of Northwesterly winds:Following the monsoon withdrawal, prevailing winds in northern India shift to the
northwest. These winds carry dust particles originating from the Gulf region, as well as northern Pakistan and
Afghanistan, impacting air quality in the region.

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Other Key Findings from World Air Quality Report, 2023

In 2023, the top 5 most polluted countries globally were Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, Tajikistan, and Burkina
Faso, highlighting the widespread air quality challenges faced by these nations.
Seven countries, including Australia, Estonia, Finland, Grenada, Iceland, Mauritius, and New Zealand,
successfully met the WHO annual PM2.5 guideline, showcasing commendable efforts in maintaining cleaner
air standards.
Africa lacks adequate air quality data, with one-third of its population lacking access. This hampers efforts to
tackle air pollution effectively on the continent.
India's dominance in the top ten most polluted cities globally, with nine cities listed, emphasises the urgent
necessity for targeted interventions to enhance urban air quality.
China witnessed a 6.3% rise in PM2.5 levels to 32.5 micrograms in 2023, halting five years of decline despite
past efforts. This underscores ongoing challenges in sustaining air quality improvements, emphasising the
need for continued mitigation strategies.
Canada, for the first time, emerged as Northern America's most polluted country, with its 13 most polluted
cities within its borders. This underscores the imperative to address air quality issues, even in developed
nations.

GOVT. MEASURES TO TACKLE AIR POLLUTION

National Clean Air Programme (NCAP): This program aims to reduce particulate matter concentration by 20-30%
by 2024 in 122 cities.
Bharat Stage (BS) Emission Standards: These standards are progressively being tightened to regulate vehicle
emissions, similar to Euro standards.
SAFAR (System of Air Quality and Weather Forecast and Research): India's air quality monitoring system, forecasts
pollution levels for major cities up to 3 days in advance. This informs residents and allows them to take action to
improve air quality and protect their health.
The Air Quality Index (AQI): It is a measure used to report daily air quality and track changes in atmospheric pollution.
AQI monitors eight major air pollutants, including:
» Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5)
» Ground-level Ozone (O3)
» Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)
» Sulphur Dioxide (SO2)
» Carbon Monoxide (CO)
» Lead (Pb)
» Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
» Ammonia (NH3)
Graded Response Action Plan:The action plan formulated in 2016 and notified in 2017 for Delhi and the National
Capital Region (NCR) consists of institutionalised measures to be implemented during periods of deteriorating air
quality. It serves as an emergency measure to address the air pollution crisis.
Push for Electric vehicles(EV):The drive for Electric Vehicles (EVs) is fueled by the global climate agenda set forth
in the Paris Agreement to curb carbon emissions and mitigate global warming. EV sales reached 2.1 million in 2020,
comprising approximately 2% of total car sales.
New Commission for Air Quality Management:The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC)
is introducing the Commission for Air Quality Management in the National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Bill,
2021. It aims to coordinate actions among state governments, plan and execute pollution control measures, identify
pollutants, and conduct research with technical institutions.

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Case Studies for Best Practices in India and the World

India:
Delhi's Odd-Even Scheme: This temporary measure restricts car usage based on licence plates, demonstrably
reducing traffic congestion and pollution during implementation.
Pune's Vehicle Scrappage Policy: By offering incentives to scrap old, polluting vehicles, Pune tackles emissions
directly at the source. This approach can be replicated in other cities to encourage a cleaner fleet.
Indore's Biogas Project: This innovative project diverts waste from landfills and converts it into clean-burning
biogas for cooking fuel. This not only reduces waste but also cuts down on air pollution caused by traditional
biomass burning.
Other Countries:
London's Congestion Charge: This policy directly discourages non-essential traffic in a designated central zone
by charging drivers a fee to enter. The resulting decrease in vehicles has demonstrably improved air quality.
Beijing's Coal Ban: This drastic step involved replacing coal-fired power plants with cleaner alternatives. While
economically challenging, it significantly reduced emissions in a short period.
PlaNYC, New York: launched by former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg in 2007, aimed to tackle
challenges such as accommodating a growing population, strengthening the economy, combating climate
change, and enhancing the quality of life for all residents through long-term sustainability measures.
IGDAS, Transforming Istanbul's Energy Landscape: Established in 1986, İstanbul Gaz Dagitim A.Ş. (IGDAS)
has been pivotal in transitioning Istanbul towards cleaner energy. By providing natural gas as an alternative to
traditional fuels, IGDAS has significantly reduced air pollution, improving the city's air quality and meeting global
standards.

WAY FORWARD
Regional Coordination: Address stubble burning in neighbouring states through dialogue and joint action plans.
Leverage wind patterns for optimal dispersion of pollutants.
» Eg: The Central Pollution Control Board's Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) promotes inter-state cooperation
during peak pollution periods.
Clean Energy Adoption: Accelerate the shift towards renewable energy sources like solar and wind power to
significantly reduce emissions from power plants.
» Eg: India's ambitious solar power targets and initiatives like the Rewa Solar Project supplying clean energy to
Delhi Metro.
Promote electric vehicles (EVs) and expand charging infrastructure:It helps to drastically cut emissions from
transportation.
» Eg: Pune's large-scale electric bus system serves as a model for cleaner public transport.
Awareness Campaigns: Educate citizens about the causes and health impacts of air pollution, fostering behavioural
changes that reduce emissions.
» Eg: Real-time air quality data shared by CEEW empowers Delhi residents to make informed choices.
Urban Planning and Green Spaces: Prioritise green infrastructure and urban planning strategies that promote green
spaces, tree planting, and pedestrian-friendly environments to mitigate pollution.
» Eg: Singapore's extensive green spaces and vertical gardens improving air quality and enhancing urban
biodiversity.
Waste Management: Implement effective waste management practices, including segregation, recycling, and
waste-to-energy technologies, to reduce open burning and landfill emissions.
» Eg: Indore's successful waste management model, focusing on segregation at source, composting, and recycling,
resulting in reduced landfill waste and pollution.

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CONCLUSION
Delhi's air pollution demands a combined effort. Local actions & clean tech are vital, but regional cooperation is key.
Tackling stubble burning & leveraging wind patterns require interstate plans. Public awareness & real-time data empower
citizens. A multi-pronged strategy is Delhi's path to cleaner air.

SAMPLE QUESTION
Q) Critically examine the factors contributing to air pollution in Delhi. Evaluate the effectiveness of the existing
measures to combat this issue and suggest a roadmap for achieving sustainable air quality in the city. (15 M)(250 W)

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Balancing Development and Environment: Your Notes

Sustainable Infrastructure Development: Adopt sustainable construction practices and incorporate environment-
friendly technologies to minimise the ecological impact of military development projects.
» Example: Utilising solar power for energy needs in the Andamans can reduce dependence on fossil fuels and
protect the environment.
Collaboration with Environmental Agencies:
» Work closely with environmental agencies like the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
(MoEFCC) to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and develop effective conservation strategies.
» Forest and environmental clearances must be accorded with minimum red tape.
International Collaboration:
India could also explore the possibility of leveraging international arrangements in the Indo-Pacific such as the Quad
and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) to catalyse development efforts on the islands.

CONCLUSION SAMPLE QUESTION

Q) In light of the growing political complexities
To fully harness the strategic potential of the Andaman and emerging threats in the Indo-Pacific, what
and Nicobar Islands and maintain a strong Bay of Bengal comprehensive strategies can be implemented to
presence, the ANC must be reinforced as an independent ensure the Andaman and Nicobar Command remains
joint command. By boosting its capabilities and partnering as a robust defender of India's maritime interests and
with groups like the Quad, India can safeguard its maritime a key player in regional security? Examine. (15 marks)
interests and contribute to Indo-Pacific stability. (250 words)

HEAT ACTION PLAN

Syllabus: GS I - Important Geophysical Phenomena

PYQ MAPPING WHY IN NEWS?

Q) Bring out the causes for the formation of heat islands The IMD cautioned that from April to June, most of
in the urban habitat of the world (2013) India will experience temperatures surpassing normal
levels. This warning aligns with a recent alert from the
SHORT TAKES UN's World Meteorological Organization, suggesting
India Meteorological Department: Established in that 2024 is anticipated to be even hotter after last
1875 at Shimla and later shifted to New Delhi, the year's record-breaking global temperatures.
India Meteorological Department (IMD) centralised
meteorological work in India under Mr. H. F. Blanford as
INTRODUCTION
Meteorological Reporter. Heat Action Plans (HAPs) are guidance documents
prepared by state, district, and city governments
Heat wave: A heatwave refers to dangerously high air to help prepare for, respond to, and recover and
temperatures, determined qualitatively by the risk they learn from heat waves. One of their most important
pose to human health and quantitatively by specific functions is to direct scarce healthcare, financial,
temperature thresholds for each region. In India, the information, and infrastructural resources to those
IMD declares a heatwave if maximum temperatures most vulnerable to extreme heat in that jurisdiction.
exceed 40°C in the plains, 37°C in coastal areas, and
30°C in hilly regions. FEATURES
Heat Action Plan (HAP): Heat action plans (HAPs) General Pattern : HAPs in India typically include
serve as the primary policy response to economically an overview of regional heat profiles, past
damaging and life-threatening heatwaves. They outline heatwave occurrences, and trends in summer
various activities, disaster responses, and post-heatwave temperatures. They also assess vulnerability and
measures aimed at reducing the impact of heatwaves. propose response strategies involving multiple

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departments like disaster management, labour, and police, detailing

roles and responsibilities before, during, and after a heatwave.
Heat early warning systems: Facilitate early heatwave detection and
enable prompt intervention. Colour-coded alert systems signalling
increasing heat levels prompt coordinated responses from authorities
during extreme heat, notifying residents.
» For example, the Ahmedabad Heat Action Plan (HAP) utilises
meteorological data to forecast heatwaves, triggering actions like
opening cooling centres and arranging transportation for vulnerable
populations.
Communicating heat risks: Increasing awareness about heat wave
dangers and safety measures. Specialised initiatives target vulnerable
populations such as children, the elderly, and those with prolonged heat
exposure from their occupations.
» Example: Delhi's HAP conducts a targeted campaign for vulnerable groups, offering advice like staying hydrated
and avoiding strenuous activities during heatwaves
Heat response measures: During heatwaves it safeguards vulnerable populations and mitigates heat-related risks.
Urban heat island mitigation methods, like green infrastructure and expanding green spaces, are incorporated
while traffic and congestion reduction policies are streamlined.
» Example: Mumbai's HAP implements a response plan involving cooling centres, transportation assistance, and
monitoring vulnerable individuals, alongside initiatives to combat urban heat islands through tree planting and
green space expansion.
Coordination among agencies: Collaboration between government agencies, healthcare providers, and community
organisations to ensure an effective response to heatwaves.
Enhancing public awareness: Involves educating people about the dangers of heatwaves and effective safety
measures, with campaigns playing a crucial role in reducing heat-related illnesses and fatalities.
IMPORTANCE
Uncontrollable temperature: Temperatures exceed 45°C in certain areas like Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha,
and Gangetic West Bengal as heat extends its reach.
Rising disastrous heat waves: In the last 50 years, India has witnessed over 700 heatwave incidents resulting in
over 17,000 fatalities, as per a 2021 study published in the Weather and Climate Extremes journal.
Silent Killer :Heatwaves, while less attention-grabbing than earthquakes or floods, have claimed a significant
number of lives in India until recently, causing 24,223 deaths between 1992 and 2015.
Disadvantaged are more prone:Most victims of heat waves were impoverished individuals working in unorganised
sectors like daily-wage labourers and street vendors, forced to toil outdoors for economic sustenance. Their inability
to escape outdoor work makes them especially susceptible to the hazards of heatwave conditions.
Economic stress - The International Labour Organisation anticipates a 5.8% rise in work hours lost due to heat
stress by 2030, amounting to 34 million jobs, spanning outdoor industries like agriculture and mining, as well as
indoor sectors lacking adequate air conditioning, such as manufacturing, hospitality, and transportation.

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ISSUES WITH CURRENT HAPS

Disregard for regional differences - National heatwave thresholds set the standard, yet localised assessments
are essential at state, district, and city levels. Urban factors like the urban heat island effect, roofing types, and
proximity to water influence temperatures, urging the need for localized determinations beyond just humidity.
Inconsistent techniques - Many HAPs lack consistent vulnerability assessments due to varied methods. A
comprehensive climate risk assessment is needed to predict heatwave likelihoods, estimate people and asset
exposures, and address inherent vulnerabilities.
Implementation Challenges: HAPs are guidelines rather than legal mandates, which means bureaucrats may not
be accountable for delays in implementation. In many cases, important provisions of HAPs have been implemented
only if a bureaucrat or a politician felt like doing so.
Absence of tailored intervention - Lacking tailored interventions that consider the diverse requirements of
communities, considering local social, demographic, and infrastructure factors. The informal sector, representing
over 90% of India's economy, prominently features pushcart vendors, tea sellers, domestic workers, and sanitation
staff, underscoring the need for targeted support.
Resource deficiency - The execution of HAPs varies widely based on local government priorities and available
capacities, often hindered by the lack of dedicated budgets. Additionally, the absence of dialogue between state
entities, civil society organisations, and worker unions prevents the co-planning of financial mechanisms to support
informal workers during heat waves without income loss.
Lack of transparency: There is no national repository of HAPs and very few HAPs are listed online. Further, it is
unclear whether these HAPs are being updated periodically and whether this is based on evaluation data.India also
needs better data on heat-related deaths and morbidity.
» Example: While NDMA has claimed that heat-related deaths had come down from over 2,000 in 2015 to just
four in 2020, an analysis of National Crime Records Bureau data calculates 1,274 heat-related deaths in India
in 2019.

Global Examples
European Countries
o HEAT-SHIELD - Project by EU endeavours to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change, particularly rising
workplace temperatures, on the workforce.
o Heat-Health Action Plan (HHAP) & Heat-Health Warning System (HHWS) - The collective strategy of national or
regional authorities in various European countries to address health risks from extreme heat is commonly known
as a Heat-Health Action Plan (HHAP), with its weather-based alert system called the Heat-Health Warning System
(HHWS).
International Organisations
o WMO and WHO have jointly created guidance for practitioners in National Meteorological and Hydrological Services
(NMHSs) and National Health Services (NHSs), addressing the heat-health issue and how to develop effective heat-
health warning systems (HHWSs) within broader heat-health action plans (HHAPs), focusing on practical rather
than prescriptive approaches.
India
o First HAP- Ahmedabad municipality partnered with the Indian Institute of Public Health and American academies
to develop the country’s first heat action plan (HAP) in 2013.
o Climate Hazards and Vulnerability Atlas - The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has compiled a Climate
Hazards and Vulnerability Atlas of India, covering thirteen of the most perilous meteorological phenomena,
including Heat Waves.
USA
o Extreme Heat Action Plan - Governor of California collaborated with the Legislature to allocate an $800 million
budget package last year to safeguard California from heat, with $300 million earmarked for the Extreme Heat
Action Plan and other initiatives to protect communities and the environment. In the 2022-23 budget, the Governor
proposes allocating this additional funding to support the implementation of the Extreme Heat Action Plan

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o Climate Adaptation Strategy - Progress on implementing the Extreme Heat Action Plan will be monitored via the
California Climate Adaptation Strategy's yearly reporting, bolstering the state's comprehensive climate adaptation
efforts.

WAY FORWARD
Setting an expert committee: Heat is not currently recognized as a disaster eligible for mitigation and relief
funds under the National and State Disaster Risk Management Funds (N/SDRMFs). An expert committee should
reconsider this decision, informed by the latest science and HAP implementation experience.
Effective monitoring: Make regular monitoring the centrepiece of the annual evaluation process, ensuring
interventions effectively reach vulnerable groups and reduce exposure.
Technological progress - Incorporating granular scale heat vulnerability and hotspot mapping assessments,
leveraging the latest advancements in geospatial technology and field-based assessments, is essential for enhancing
the effectiveness and impact of our Heat Action Plans (HAPs).
Knowledge Sharing: Several states and cities are simultaneously experimenting with different combinations of
solutions with varying levels of effectiveness. It is important to create platforms to exchange which solutions and
processes work.
» Example: Ahmedabad's Cool Roofs Program aims to mitigate urban heat island effects. These roofs reflect
sunlight and reduce indoor temperatures by up to 5°C, benefiting vulnerable residents.
Addressing regional variations: Expanding heatwave definitions to include local factors and developing regional-
specific Heat Action Plans (HAPs) is vital for effective strategies in combating extreme temperatures.
Anticipatory cash transfers: Provide financial assistance to vulnerable populations before the onset of the crisis,
enabling them to prepare and mitigate its impacts effectively.
» Self Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) has introduced an Extreme Heat Insurance product for its
members with support from Rockefeller Foundation.
Public Awareness and Outreach: Utilising various media channels for disseminating preventive measures against
heat waves, including pamphlets, advertisements, and social media campaigns, to educate and protect vulnerable
populations.
Resource Management: Allocate specific funding for Heat Action Plans (HAPs) to ensure their efficient execution.
Foster discussions among stakeholders to establish financial systems aiding informal workers during heatwaves.
Collaborative Integration: Fuse Heat Action Plans (HAPs) with wider urban resilience and climate adaptation
strategies to maximise resource efficiency. Enhance data gathering and monitoring frameworks to evaluate the
long-term effectiveness of HAPs.
Expand risk assessments: HAPs should assess how risks compound across demographics and livelihoods. For
instance, elderly individuals working outdoors face different risks than those working indoors. Additionally,
vulnerable groups should include informal home-based workers.
Getting future ready: India faces a clear scientific forecast of more frequent and intense heat waves, hotter days and
nights, and shifts in seasons. HAP revisions should incorporate high-resolution climate projections and past temperature
trends to transform them into proactive tools for heat planning rather than merely reactive ones for heat management.

CONCLUSION
In conclusion, there is a pressing requirement to implement
Heat Action Plans (HAPs) to alleviate the negative effects of SAMPLE QUESTION
heatwaves, given the increasing unpredictability of climate Q) The frequency of heat waves is increasing over the
change and the resulting surge in extreme weather incidents. years. Discussing the reasons for heat waves , highlight
Just as the COVID-19 pandemic caught our public health the mechanisms for preparedness to reduce the risk
systems off guard, it's essential for South Asia to enhance its during such events (15 marks)(250 words)
preparedness and management systems for heatwaves,
with HAPs offering valuable support in this endeavour.

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