ENVIRONMENT

G3 3 – ENVIRONMENT Health Concerns: Black plastic products contain a flame-retardant chemical called decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209), which has been linked to human health risks. Source & Composition: Black plastic is often made from recycled electronic waste (such as computers, TVs, and appliances). Electronics contain harmful substances, including: Flame retardants …

G3 3 – ENVIRONMENT Context: The Munda tribals of Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR), Odisha, have protested against restrictions on accessing their sacred groves, which have been converted into a tiger enclosure for the translocated tigress Zeenat. About Similipal Tiger Reserve Location: Mayurbhanj district, Odisha Declared a Tiger Reserve under Project …

G3 3 – ENVIRONMENT  – SPECIES Context: China’s Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, highlighted the historical significance of the Tea Horse Road, emphasizing its role in India-China trade via Tibet. What is the Tea Horse Road? Also known as Chamadao, it was an ancient trade route linking China, Tibet, and …

G3 3 – ENVIRONMENT Context: The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (Darjeeling Zoo) has established India’s first wildlife biobank in collaboration with the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB). What is a Biobank? A biobank is a specialized repository that collects, preserves, and manages biological samples such as blood, …

GS 3 – ENVIRONMENT Context: The northern white rhino is on the verge of extinction, with only two individuals left. However, advancements in in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) have sparked hope for the subspecies, as 36 embryos are now ready for implantation. About Northern White Rhino: What is a White Rhino? The …

GS3 ENVIRONMENT: Recent studies highlight the severe impact of marine heat waves (MHWs) on marine mammals in Arctic and Subarctic regions. Rising ocean temperatures are increasing mortality rates, reducing reproductive success, and making these animals more vulnerable to diseases. The Arctic Ocean is expected to become a major hotspot for …

GS3 ENVIRONMENT: Key Points: Over the last decade, India’s vegetation has absorbed more carbon than it emits, with an annual absorption of 380-530 million tonnes. Carbon sequestration, the process of capturing atmospheric CO2 by plants, is vital for climate mitigation. Negative Net Ecosystem Exchange (NEE) signifies effective carbon storage. Challenges: …

GS3 ENVIRONMENT:  Recent Findings: A 3,000-year gap in coral growth in the Gulf of Eilat from 4,400 to 1,000 years ago, possibly due to sea-level drop from global cooling. This break in growth is mirrored in coral reefs in Mexico, Brazil, and Australia, indicating a global environmental event. Historical Growth …

GS3 ENVIRONMENT:  Habitat Found in warm oceans around the world, including India’s coasts (Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat). Diet They eat crustaceans, jellyfish, mollusks, and hard-shelled animals like crabs. Nesting and Reproduction They nest on sandy beaches and return to the same place where they were born. A female …

GS 3 – Environment Introduction Launch and Vision: Launched at the Global Investors’ Meet – Invest Karnataka 2025 Aimed at positioning Karnataka as a leader in the electric vehicle (EV) sector and a hub for clean mobility innovation in Asia Focus on reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality Attracting …

GS 3 – Environment The Intertidal Bioblitz, a citizen science initiative, was jointly conducted by the Coastal Conservation Foundation and the East Coast Conservation Team to document biodiversity in India’s intertidal zones. A flatworm, Pseudoceros bifascia, was recorded for the first time from mainland India (Andhra Pradesh coast). About the …

GS 3 – ENVIRONMENT – SPECIES The Haryana government has recently introduced new Wildlife (Protection) Rules, allowing the shooting of male Nilgais (blue bulls) to control their population and minimize crop damage. This decision has sparked opposition from environmentalists, local communities, and the Bishnoi community, who argue that such measures …

GS 3 – ENVIRONMENT The Karnataka government’s plan to establish a tribal village within the buffer zone of Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary has ignited debate. While it seeks to rehabilitate over 570 displaced tribal families, concerns about human-wildlife conflict remain a significant issue. Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary: An Overview Location: Western Ghats, …

GS 3 – ENVIRONMENT The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 (FRA), aimed to empower forest communities, yet significant challenges persist. A recent study highlights limited recognition of Community Forest Resource (CFR) rights across most states, undermining the Act’s objectives. Current Status of …

GS 3 – ENVIRONMENT Launched in October 2023, the Green Credit Programme (GCP) and the Ecomark Scheme promote environmental sustainability. GCP incentivizes voluntary eco-actions, while Ecomark certifies eco-friendly products. Green Credit Programme (GCP) A market-based initiative rewarding afforestation and eco-restoration efforts. 17 states allocated 57,700 hectares for tree plantations, with …

GS – 3 – ENVIRONMENT Launched in April 2022, Mission Amrit Sarovar aims to combat water scarcity by constructing and rejuvenating 75 ponds per district, totaling 50,000 nationwide. As of January 2025, over 68,000 ponds have been completed, surpassing targets. Key Objectives & Implementation The mission focuses on sustainable water …

GS3 –ENVIRONMENT   Context: India has the potential to play a significant role in strengthening climate collaboration among developing countries under Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement, facilitating global climate solutions. Article 6 of the Paris Agreement Carbon Markets: This provision enables the exchange of carbon credits to fulfill emission reduction …

GS3 ENVIRONMENT:  Project Overview Rs 21,000 crore project to link a 13 GW renewable energy park in Ladakh to the national grid in Haryana. Utilizes HVDC technology for electricity transmission over 480 km from solar and wind sources. Key Challenges Security Concerns Proximity to the China border poses security threats. …

GS 3: Environment Location: Tinsukia district, Assam Established: Declared as a National Park in 1999 Total Area: 340 sq km Biosphere Reserve: Part of the Dibru-Saikhowa Biosphere Reserve (765 sq km) River Systems: Surrounded by the Brahmaputra and Lohit rivers Geographic and Ecological Importance Eco-region: Located in the eastern Himalayan …

GS 3 – ENVIRONMENT Context: Researchers are exploring bacterial and microbial approaches to break down plastic waste, offering a potential solution to environmental pollution. Plastic-Degrading Bacteria and Enzymes Certain microbes can biodegrade plastics within months by enzymatically breaking them down into carbon dioxide, water, and biomass. For instance, PET plastic …