Heatwaves in India

Why in news?

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for heatwaves in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and most parts of Western Rajasthan.

What is a heatwave?

• About- According to IMD, heatwave is a period of abnormally high temperatures, more than the normal maximum temperature that occurs during the summer season in the North-Western parts of India.
• Occurrence-Heatwaves typically occur between March and June, and in some rare cases even extend till July.
• Impact-The extreme temperatures and resultant atmospheric conditions adversely affect people living in these regions as they cause physiological stress, sometimes resulting in death.
• Qualitatively- Heat wave is a condition of air temperature which becomes fatal to human body when exposed.
• Quantitatively- Heatwave is defined based on the temperature thresholds over a region in terms of actual temperature or its departure from normal.

• Heatwave- If the prevalent temperature is 4.5°C to 6.4°C more than normal, it is classified as a heatwave.
• Severe heatwave-A rise of more than 6.4°C is considered a severe heatwave. May is the peak month for heatwaves in India.
• For coastal areas - When maximum temperature departure is 4.5 °C or more from normal, heat wave may be described provided actual maximum temperature is 37°C or more.
• Vulnerable- The States frequently affected include Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
• Red alert- A red alert refers to an extreme heat warning. It means that a severe heatwave has persisted for more than 2 days or the total number of heat/severe heatwave days has been more than 6 days.

What are the factors contribute to heatwaves?

• Climate change- As GHG emissions increase, the Earth’s atmosphere retains more heat, causing overall temperature rise. This in turn leads to extreme weather events, including heatwaves which become more common and severe.
• El Nino- It is a climatic phenomenon characterized by the abnormal warming of surface waters in the equatorial Pacific Ocean. El Nino years often experience
  • Extreme temperatures- Increased likelihood of breaking temperature records.
  • Extended heatwave spells- More frequent and prolonged heatwaves.
  • Reduced pre-monsoon rainfall- Less precipitation before the monsoon season, exacerbating the heat condition.

World Meteorological Organization (WMO) states that El Niño greatly increases the likelihood of extreme heat events both on land and in the oceans.

• Heat dome- It occurs when an area of high pressure traps warm air over a region for an extended period, acting like lid on a pot. Prolonged heat domes can result in deadly heatwaves due to persistent and intense heat.
• Anticyclone- It is a high-pressure system, involves descending air that increases in temperature as it is compressed. This results in hot, dry weather conditions.
• Urban heat island effect- Urban areas experience higher temperatures than rural surroundings due to the urban heat island effect. The concentration of buildings, concrete, and asphalt absorbs and retains heat, elevating temperatures during heatwaves.
• Loss of evapotranspiration- Due to deforestation and changing land use pattern there is loss of trees and vegetation, it leads to less cooling through evapotranspiration, leading to higher local temperatures.

What are the impacts of heatwaves?

• Heat exhaustion- It is characterized by heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and fainting which occurs when the body loses excessive amounts of water and salt.
• Heat stroke- A severe, life-threatening condition where the body fails to regulate its temperature, leading to dry, warm skin, confusion, unconsciousness, and potential organ failure. Immediate medical intervention is critical.]
• Health impact- Heatwaves increase the incidence of heat-related illness such as heatstroke, dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat cramps.
• Drought- Prolonged heatwaves can exacerbate drought conditions by increasing evaporation rates and reducing soil moisture.
• Water scarcity- Reduced water availability affects both human populations and natural ecosystems.
• Ecosystem stress- Wildfires can destroy habitats, reduce biodiversity, and disrupt ecological balances.
• Economic impact-Farmers and the food industry face significant economic losses due to reduced productivity and increased costs for irrigation and livestock care.
• Food security- Reduced agricultural output can lead to food shortages and increased food prices, affecting food security for populations.
• Infrastructural damages-Prolonged heat can damage infrastructure such as roads, railways, and power lines, further compounding the challenges during heatwave.

What are the precautions that should be taken for heatwaves?

• NDMA- National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has prescribed the following measures can be taken to minimise heatwave impact.
• Avoid sun exposure- Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day, especially between noon and 3 pm. If you need to be outside, use protective gear like a hat or an umbrella.
• Stay hydrated- Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Staying hydrated is essential to prevent heat-related illnesses.
• Appropriate clothing- Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting, and breathable cotton clothes. Protect your eyes with goggles, and use an umbrella or hat to shield yourself from direct sunlight.
• Avoid dehydrating beverages- Limit alcohol, tea, coffee, and carbonated soft drinks, as they can dehydrate your body. Instead, opt for oral rehydration solutions (ORS) or homemade drinks like lassi, torani (rice water), lemon water, or buttermilk.
• Treatment of heatstroke- Immediate action is to lay the person in a cool place, wipe with a wet cloth and pour normal temperature water on head. Hydrate the person with ORS and other liquids finally the person must be taken to the nearest health centre or hospital promptly.

References

1. Indian Express- IMD heat wave red alert meaning
2. WHO- Impact of heatwaves

Space Tourism

Why in news?

Entrepreneur and pilot Gopi Thotakura is set to become the first Indian to venture into space as a tourist on the NS-25 mission of Blue Origin.

What is space tourism?

• Space tourism is a section of the aviation sector which seeks to provide tourists with the opportunity to become astronauts and experience space travel for recreational, leisure, or business purposes.

• NS-25 mission- It is fully reusable sub-orbital mission of Blue Origin which takes the passengers much further than the Karman line.

Kármán Line lies nearly 100 kilometres above our heads and is considered to be the boundary between Earth’s atmosphere and outer space.

What is the significance of space tourism?

• Space democratization- It aims to make space more accessible to a broader range of people beyond trained astronauts and scientists.
• Economic growth- It has the potential to create new industries, generate revenue, and stimulate economic growth.
• Advancements in space technology- Advancements in lightweight materials, life support systems, and re-entry technology benefit not only tourists but also astronauts and scientific missions.
• Environmental awareness- Experiencing space firsthand can lead to a greater understanding of the fragility and interconnectedness of earth's ecosystems.
• Promote education- It can inspire people of all ages to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
• Cultural exchange- It has the power to promote cultural exchange and understanding by bringing together people from diverse backgrounds and nationalities.
• Space as shared resource- International cooperation in space tourism can pave the way for joint scientific missions, knowledge sharing, and peaceful exploration.

What are the challenges?

• High-cost - Currently, space tourism is expensive. A passenger generally has to pay at least a million dollars to reach outer space.
• Safety concerns-The inherent risks associated with space travel, such as launch failures and space debris, necessitate stringent safety protocols and risk mitigation strategies.
• Regulatory issues- The lack of comprehensive regulatory frameworks poses challenges for the space tourism industry. Establishing clear regulations is essential for ensuring safety and managing liability.
• High costs- The high cost of entry remains a significant barrier as a passenger generally has to pay at least a million dollars to reach outer space.
• Technological limitations- Current technology limits the frequency and capacity of space flights.
• Environmental impact-The environmental sustainability of space tourism is a concern, particularly regarding the carbon footprint of rocket launches and potential space debris1.
• Medical risks - Space tourism can cause health issues from microgravity, increased radiation exposure, and extreme acceleration.
• Psychological challenges - Long journeys and living in space can cause psychological problems, such as worrying about connecting with Earth and adapting to harsh conditions.

Approximately 3% of astronauts died during their space flight which is quite a high fatality rate.

Reference

The Indian Express-What is space tourism

NIA vs NSCN

Why in news?

National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a chargesheet against 5 individuals linked to the National Socialist Council of Nagaland’s “China-Myanmar module”.

What is the issue?

• The NIA's chargesheet is significant as it is the first official document linking the NSCN-IM with Meitei insurgent groups amid the current ethnic crisis.
• The accused were identified as a trained cadre of People’s Liberation Army, one of the most violent Meitei insurgent groups.
• After the NIA findings were reported, the NSCN-IM accused Indian security forces of aiding Kuki militant groups against Meitei groups in Myanmar.
• The NSCN-IM, which has been in peace talks with the Indian government since 1997, distanced itself from the violence in Manipur, stating that no ethnic blood should flow in Naga areas due to the Meitei-Kuki-Zo conflicts.

Who are NSCN?

• About- National Socialist Council of Nagaland is a Naga nationalist insurgent group operating primarily in the northeastern region of India.
• Factions- NSCN-IM (Isak-Muivah faction) and NSCN-K (Khaplang faction).
• NSCN-IM- It was formed in 1980 after splitting from the Naga National Council (NNC) following the Shillong Accord of 1975, which was seen as a betrayal by many Nagas.
• Objective- The establishment of a sovereign Naga state called "Nagalim" or "Greater Nagaland," which would include all Naga-inhabited areas in Northeast India and parts of Myanmar.
• Demand-They have been demanding a separate Naga flag and constitution as part of any final agreement with the Indian government.
• Ceasefire agreement- NSCN-IM signed a ceasefire agreement with the Government of India in 1997 marking a significant development in the Naga peace process.
• Framework agreement- It was signed in 2015 which aimed at finding a political solution to the Naga issue.

What lies ahead?

• The ongoing unrest poses significant challenges to peace and stability in the region, exacerbated by historical grievances, demands for autonomy, and the strategic interests of neighbouring countries like Myanmar and China.
• The Indian government's move to fence the border reflects an attempt to enhance security and manage the complex dynamics of cross-border ethnic ties.

Quick facts

References

1. The Hindu- NIA’s allegation against NSCN-IM
2. NIA- About us

Prelim Bits 20-05-2024 | UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Bacterial Pathogens Priority List (BPPL)

The Bacterial Pathogens Priority List was updated as critical priority pathogens continue to present major global threat.

• Developed by – World Health Organisation (WHO)
• Aim – To list bacterial pathogens of public health importance to guide research, development and strategies to prevent and control antimicrobial resistance.

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites no longer respond to medicines, making people sicker and increasing the risk of disease spread, illness and deaths. It is driven in large part by the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials.

• 2024 edition – Built on the 1^st edition that was published in 2017.
• It updates & refines the prioritization of antibiotic-resistant bacterial pathogens to address antibiotic resistance.

• Categories – Critical, high, and medium priority groups.
• Coverage – 24 pathogens, spanning 15 families of antibiotic-resistant bacterial pathogens.
• Notable pathogens
  • Gram-negative bacteria resistant to last-resort antibiotics
  • Drug-resistant mycobacterium tuberculosis
  • Other high-burden resistant pathogens – Salmonella, Shigella, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus.
• Significance – Act as a guide for prioritizing R&D & investments in AMR, emphasizing the need for regionally tailored strategies.
• It also targets policy-makers responsible for developing and implementing AMR policies and programs.

References

1. The Hindu| Critical priority pathogens pose a global threat
2. WHO| Bacterial Priority Pathogens List 2024

Sariska Tiger Reserve

The Supreme Court has ordered to shutter 68 mines operating within a 1-km periphery of the critical tiger habitat (CTH) of the Sariska reserve.

Both the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and Environment Protection Act, 1986 prohibit quarrying in and around a tiger reserve.

• Located at – Alwar in Rajasthan, nestled in the lap of Aravalli hills.
• Ecosystem – It contains mountains, grasslands, dry deciduous forests and cliffs which span over 800 square kilometres.
• Biodiversity – Nearly 90% of the area in the sanctuary is covered with dhok trees accommodating various wildlife species.
• Currently home to numerous animals apart from tigers.

Sariska Tiger Reserve is home to India's largest population of peafowl, and harbours quail, sand grouse, golden- backed woodpeckers and crested serpent eagles, among other species.

• Also the Siliserh Lake on the edge of the park has a large number of crocodiles.

• Historical significance – It houses the ruins of medieval temples of Garh-Rajor that date back to the 10^th and 11^th centuries.
• Also a 17^th century castle on a hilltop at Kankwari provides a panoramic view of flying vultures and eagles.

Sariska was declared as a sanctuary in 1955, attained the status of a National Park in 1979 and became a Sariska tiger reserve in 1978.

• Concerns – Illegal mining and soft boundaries (undefined).

References

1. The Indian Express| Illegal Mining in Sariska Tiger Reserve
2. Sariskanationalpark| Sariska Tiger Reserve

Scheme for Care and Support to Victims

There are many gaps in the Scheme for Care and Support to Victims.

• Legality – It is under Section 4 and 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act of 2012.
• It is a centrally funded scheme from NIRBHAYA fund of the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
• Objectives – To provide integrated support and assistance to minor pregnant girl child victims under one roof.
• To facilitate immediate, emergency and non-emergency access to a range of services for long term rehabilitation.
• Implemented through – The State/UT Governments.
• Eligibility – Any girl below the age of 18 years, who is a victim of
  • Penetrative Sexual Assault - Section 4 of the POCSO Act
  • Aggravated Penetrative Sexual Assault — Section 6 of the POCSO Act
  • Section 376, 376A-E of Indian Penal Code, 1860 (IPC)
• And becomes pregnant due to such assault or rape is covered.
• Services offered
  • Safe Transportation, Police Protection & Safe space to live
  • Health Services, medical examination
  • Counselling and Mental Health Services
  • Health Insurance Coverage
  • Education and Vocational Skills
  • Legal Aid and Assistance
  • Monetary and Other Entitlements
  • Care under Mission Vatsalya – Monetary and care
• Challenges – It remains silent on whether the benefits will continue to be provided if the victim of a reported case opts for a medical termination of pregnancy (MTP) or has a miscarriage.
• Victims under the POCSO Act, including those who are pregnant, do not automatically qualify as Children in Need of Care and Protection (CNCP).

References

1. The Hindu| Challenges in Minor girl victim support scheme
2. Vikaspedia| Scheme for Care and Support to Victims

Shamlat deh

Supreme Court (SC) allowed a review of its 2022 judgment on ‘shamlat deh’ land rights.

• Shamlat deh – It is essentially village common land.
• Created by – Multiple landowners contributing an equal portion of their individual land holdings.
• Aim – To serve the “common purposes” of village’s people.
• It is not one patch of land but consists of several chunks and has been classified in many land areas.
• Gora Deh – The place in a village where cattle are gathered before going to the pasture.
• Abadi Deh – The chunks of land on which houses or mosques, temples or gurudwaras are constructed.
• Rights – Landholders in a village are entitled to get a share of the ‘Shamilat’ land as per the ratio of their holdings which means they have proprietary rights in Shamilat land in proportion to the size of their holdings.
• Karnail Singh vs State of Haryana, 2024 – It held that the 2022 decision vesting control of the land in the panchayat once the land is assigned was “totally contrary” to the Constitution Bench in Bhagat Ram case.
• It also directed the challenge to the 2003 High Court decision to be heard once again soon.

Article 31A of the Indian Constitution deals with ‘Saving of laws providing for acquisition of estates, etc.’, which came into force through the 17th constitutional amendment of 1964.

2^nd provision of 31A prevents the government from acquiring land from a person, if the size of the land is below the “ceiling limit” (which changes based on the state and the applicable law), unless the state pays compensation “not be less than the market value” for the land.

Reference

The Indian Express| Shamlat Deh Land judgement

Chir pine

During forest fires in Mussoorie and Landour, one of the pine cones would catch fire up above and come rolling down and start it all over again.

• Also, locally known as Chir ka ped.
• A Chir pine or or the longleaf Indian pine, is a conifer can grow up to a height of about 30 metres.
• Scientific name – Pinus roxburghii
• Distribution – Native to the Himalayas, and was not introduced to the Himalayas by the British, as is often believed.
• Found all over the Western Himalayas at an elevation between 1,000 and 2,000 metres, it covers about 16% of the forest area in Uttarakhand.
• Features – It can be identified by its 3 needles and its round cone (unlike the elongated cones of other pines).
• Growing conditions – It can be seen growing on steep slopes, grow even in sunlight exposed sites and the root system of pine is shallow and it doesn’t require a lot of water.

Chir pine is one of the 6 pines in India that have maximum occurrence and area.

• Area expansion – Historically, it was due to the expansion of Indian Railways and resin-tapping during the colonial times.
• Economic significance – Used for resin-tapping, locally known as lisa, is used for making turpentine oil after distillation.
• The wood is used by the people as a source of firewood and locally sourced timber for their houses and other wooden furniture needs.
• Concerns – It has inflammable leaves or needles.
• Forest Fires — The pine needles are highly inflammable and are the leading cause of forest fires in the region.
• Being fire-resistant, pine tree doesn’t burn in this fire and sheds leaves again next year, continuing this cycle every year.
• Biodiversity Loss — Due to the forest fires every year, a lot of animals and useful plant species which are not fire-resistant die leading to fauna and flora loss in the region.
• Degrade Lands — Because of the pine presence, bacteria’s in the soil die, and replaced by a parasitic fungal relationship.
• It only helps pine thrive and grow while taking away resources available for other plants.
• Lack of Water Retention — Because of the lack of bacteria, the water holding capacity of the soil decreases and the region with the pine trees is mostly drought-prone.
• No Use for Livestock — Pine needles are not used as a cattle feed, or bedding material for the livestock of the people, thus it is effectively of no use to the locals for their animal welfare.

References

1. The Indian Express| Uttarakhand’s Chir pine role in forest fire
2. AIF| Chir Pine