Daily Prelims Notes 5 November 2024

Daily Prelims Notes

5 November 2024

Table Of Contents

1. Villagers in A.P. boycott meeting over uranium exploration
2. COP29 will launch with looming funding gap
3. Pastoral census: After 105 years, India will count its transhumant livestock, communities
4. Sub-atomic gun. Why India wants 1 GeV particle accelerator for thorium
5. Manipur’s non-Naga Thadou community lends support to NRC
6. India’s first ‘teal carbon’ study bets on wetlands to address the challenges of climate adaptation and resilience
7. Supreme Court Considers Perpetual Ban on Firecrackers in Delhi Amid Rising Pollution Levels
8. Himachal Pradesh Proposes Running Kalka-Shimla Toy Trains on Green Hydrogen
9. China’s Astronauts Return After Six-Month Mission on Tiangong Space Station
10. Bob Khathing Museum of Valour inaugurated: Who was he, his role in integrating Tawang into India
11. Unexpected connection between nickel toxicity and cholesterol found
12. RBI Intervenes to Stabilize Rupee Amid Depreciation Against US Dollar

1. Villagers in A.P. boycott meeting over uranium exploration

Sub : Geo

Sec: Eco Geo

Context:

• Farmers and villagers from Kappatralla and nearby areas in Devanakonda mandal boycotted a government meeting intended to discuss uranium exploration in the local forest area.
• They demanded the government halt the proposed uranium exploration in the Kappatralla reserve forest.

Uranium mineral:

• Uranium minerals are naturally occurring substances that contain uranium, a heavy metal used primarily as fuel in nuclear reactors and in the production of nuclear weapons.

Common Uranium Minerals:

1. Uraninite (Pitchblende):
   • The most significant ore of uranium, containing about 80% uranium oxide (UO2).
   • It typically appears black or brown and has a high density.
2. Carnotite:
   • A potassium-uranium vanadate mineral (K2(UO2)2(VO4)2·3H2O).
   • Bright yellow in color and often found in sedimentary deposits.
3. Autunite:
   • A hydrated calcium uranium phosphate (Ca(UO2)2(PO4)2·10-12H2O).
   • It is fluorescent and commonly found in oxidized zones of uranium deposits.
4. Torbernite:
   • A hydrated copper uranium phosphate (Cu(UO2)2(PO4)2·8-12H2O).
   • Green in color and known for its beautiful crystal formations.
5. Boltwoodite:
   • A potassium uranium silicate mineral (K(UO2)(SiO3)·1.5H2O).
   • Usually found in weathered uranium deposits and has a yellow-green color.

Uranium Deposits in India:

• Geological Suitability:
  • Only a small portion of India’s land mass is geologically suitable for uranium deposits.
  • Over 70 years of exploration has identified five primary types of uranium deposits: vein type, sandstone type, strata-bound type, fracture-controlled type, and unconformity proximal type.
• Major Uranium Deposits:
  • Singhbhum Shear Zone: Jharkhand
  • Cuddapah Basin: Andhra Pradesh and Telangana
  • Mahadek Basin: Meghalaya
  • Delhi Supergroup of Rocks: Rajasthan
  • Bhima Basin: Karnataka
• Uranium Resource Distribution:
  • Andhra Pradesh: 49%
  • Jharkhand: 26%
  • Meghalaya: 9%
  • The remaining deposits are scattered across other states.
• Deposit Quality:
  • India’s uranium deposits are generally smaller and lower in grade compared to those found in major uranium-producing countries.

Uranium Production in India:

• Mining Operations by UCIL:
  • Jharkhand Mines:
    • Six underground mines: Bagjata, Jaduguda, Bhatin, Narwapahar, Turamdih, and Mohuldih.
    • One open-pit mine: Banduhurang.
    • Ore from these mines is processed at two plants in Jaduguda and Turamdih.
  • Andhra Pradesh:
    • Large underground mine and processing plant at Tummalapalle, YSR District.
    • Uses an indigenous alkaline leaching technology suited for processing low-grade uranium ore.
• Uranium Processing and Fuel Fabrication:
  • The uranium concentrate produced from these plants is sent to the Nuclear Fuel Complex in Hyderabad for further purification and fabrication into nuclear fuel rods.

States and Uranium production:

Global Uranium Resources:

• Kazakhstan: The largest producer of uranium, primarily through in-situ recovery methods.
• Canada: Known for high-grade uranium mines, particularly in the Athabasca Basin.
• Australia: Holds significant reserves and produces uranium from several mines.

2. COP29 will launch with looming funding gap

Sub: Env

Sec: Int Conventions

Context:

• At the recent COP16 U.N. biodiversity summit in Cali, Colombia, wealthy nations struggled to commit the necessary funds for global conservation, shifting the focus towards private financing to address the funding shortfall.

Funding Challenges and Goals:

• Annual Funding Target: The goal was to mobilize $200 billion annually for conservation by 2030, including $30 billion directly from wealthy nations.
• This funding was pledged two years ago under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework to support initiatives like sustainable agriculture and wildlife protection.
• Lack of Consensus: Negotiations extended past the planned end date of November 2, resulting in no agreement on funding strategies. As delegations began to leave, there was no longer a quorum for a consensus.

Context of Biodiversity Crisis:

• Threats to Nature: Human activities, including farming, mining, and urban development, have put approximately one million plant and animal species at risk of extinction. Climate change exacerbates these challenges by altering weather patterns and increasing temperatures.

Economic Trends and Government Funding:

• Declining Foreign Aid: Developed nations, including Germany, the Netherlands, France, and the U.K., have reduced their foreign aid budgets, leading to a decrease in government development funds for nature conservation abroad—from $4.6 billion in 2015 to $3.8 billion in 2022.
• COP16 Contributions: During the summit, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for substantial new contributions to the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund. Nations pledged $163 million, totalling around $400 million—well short of the $30 billion target.

3. Pastoral census: After 105 years, India will count its transhumant livestock, communities

Sub : Geo

Sec: Eco geo

Context:

• India has launched its first-ever count of pastoral livestock and pastoral communities in the 21st Livestock Census, recognizing the importance of this traditional and sustainable food system.

Importance of the Pastoral Census:

1. Large Pastoral Population: Around 20 million pastoralists rely on forests and grasslands for grazing, practicing transhumance pastoralism by moving their livestock seasonally for feed.
2. Economic and Environmental Contribution: Pastoralism, one of the oldest food systems, is economically significant and ecologically beneficial, helping to maintain grassland ecosystems and sequestering carbon.
3. For the first time since 1919, when the first livestock census happened, India will be counting its pastoral livestock, enumerating pastoral communities and their contribution to the livestock sector, as part of the 21st Livestock Census.

Definition of Pastoralist:

• A pastoralist is one whose:
  • Livestock moves outside of his / her village for at least a month in a year
  • Livestock depends on common resources (village commons, pastures, grasslands, common water bodies).

Strategy for Comprehensive Data Collection:

• Civil society organizations (CSOs) and pastoral leaders are working with the government to ensure data inclusivity and accuracy, given the mobility of pastoral systems.
• A pastoral support cell within the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying has been established, along with state and district coordination teams, to facilitate community support and training for data collectors.
• Pastoral youths from each community will assist enumerators, ensuring maximum outreach and accuracy in data collection.

Benefits for Pastoral Communities:

• Policy Inclusion: By officially recognizing pastoralism, the census aims to include pastoral households in government schemes, health programs, and infrastructure projects.
• Livelihood Improvements: With data on traditional pastoral routes, the government can improve pathways, prevent encroachment, and provide rest and healthcare facilities.
• Expanded Livestock Role: Data from the census will help broaden the perception of livestock beyond milk and meat to include cultural, environmental, and draught power contributions.

Growing Focus on Pastoralism:

• Shift in Government View: Since 2022, the government has urged states to integrate pastoral communities into schemes like the National Livestock Mission.
• Global Advocacy: With the United Nations declaring 2026 the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists and 2024 the International Year of Camelids, there’s an international push to recognize and support pastoral systems, further encouraging India’s commitment to these communities.

Pastoralist communities in India:

• India has a rich diversity of pastoralist communities, each with unique traditions, livestock practices, and seasonal migration patterns.
• These communities rely on grazing lands and follow age-old migratory routes to sustain their livestock, which include cattle, sheep, goats, camels, yaks, and even reindeer in certain regions.

1. Gujjar (Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand):

• Livestock: Primarily buffaloes, cattle, and goats.
• Practices: Gujjars move their herds seasonally between the lower plains and the alpine meadows.
• Region-Specific: In Jammu and Kashmir, they are recognized as a Scheduled Tribe and have distinct migratory patterns based on the changing seasons.

2. Bakarwal (Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh):

• Livestock: Primarily sheep and goats.
• Practices: Known for long migrations, Bakarwals travel from Jammu to the high-altitude pastures in the Himalayas.
• Cultural Significance: They play a vital role in maintaining the alpine ecosystem by grazing, which encourages plant regrowth.

3. Raika (Rebari) (Rajasthan, Gujarat)

• Livestock: Camels, sheep, and goats.
• Practices: Traditionally camel herders, Raikas move between the arid regions of Rajasthan and Gujarat.
• Cultural Role: Known as guardians of the Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Raikas play a critical role in conserving the camel population in Rajasthan.

4. Maldhari (Gujarat)

• Livestock: Primarily cattle, buffaloes, and camels.
• Region: Found mainly in the Gir forest, Kutch, and Banni grasslands.
• Lifestyle: Maldharis are semi-nomadic, moving within their region for grazing. They have historically coexisted with wildlife in protected areas like the Gir Forest.

5. Gaddi (Himachal Pradesh)

• Livestock: Sheep and goats.
• Migration: Gaddis migrate between the Kangra Valley and higher reaches of Chamba and Lahaul-Spiti in Himachal Pradesh.
• Cultural Aspect: Known for their resilience, Gaddi shepherds sustain their herds in the challenging Himalayan terrain.

6. Dhangar (Maharashtra, Karnataka)

• Livestock: Sheep, goats, and some cattle.
• Migration: Dhangars move between the dry regions of Maharashtra to fertile lands in search of grazing.
• Contribution: Besides livestock, they contribute significantly to wool production in the region.

7. Kuruba (Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu)

• Livestock: Mainly sheep and goats.
• Practices: Nomadic to semi-nomadic, Kurubas graze livestock in forested areas and around the Nilgiri hills.
• Cultural Role: Known for their deep-rooted knowledge of forest ecology, Kurubas are involved in managing biodiversity within the regions they occupy.

8. Todas (Tamil Nadu)

• Livestock: Buffaloes.
• Practices: Unlike other pastoralists, Todas practice sedentary pastoralism in the Nilgiri Hills.
• Cultural Significance: They have unique rituals centered around buffaloes and have a sustainable way of managing the high-altitude grasslands.

9. Van Gujjars (Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh)

• Livestock: Primarily buffaloes.
• Migration: Seasonal migration between the foothills and upper Himalayas.
• Role in Conservation: Van Gujjars have a profound understanding of forest biodiversity and are active in preserving forested ecosystems.

10. Changpa (Ladakh)

• Livestock: Pashmina goats, yaks, and sheep.
• Region: They inhabit the high-altitude cold desert of Ladakh.
• Economic Role: Known for producing pashmina wool, Changpas practice transhumance, moving herds to different altitudes based on the harsh seasons.

11. Gollas (Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka)

• Livestock: Sheep and goats.
• Lifestyle: Semi-nomadic, they graze in drylands and along river banks.
• Cultural Importance: Gollas are well-regarded for their expertise in managing livestock under dryland conditions.

12. Bhotiyas (Uttarakhand)

• Livestock: Sheep, goats, and yaks.
• Migration: Between the high Himalayan pastures and lower valleys.
• Cultural Role: Besides herding, Bhotiyas engage in trans-Himalayan trade, connecting India with Tibet historically.

13. Charan (Gujarat, Rajasthan)

• Livestock: Sheep, goats, and cattle.
• Region: Move within the drylands of Gujarat and Rajasthan.
• Tradition: Charans are culturally revered as bards and have traditionally maintained herds through oral folklore and sustainable grazing practices.

Source: DTE

4. Sub-atomic gun. Why India wants 1 GeV particle accelerator for thorium

Sub : Sci

Sec: Nuclear sector

Context:

• The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) in India is planning to build a high-powered 1 giga-electron volt (GeV) particle accelerator. This machine will help convert thorium, which is abundantly available in India, into nuclear fuel, aiding in the production of energy.

Particle Accelerator:

• A particle accelerator is a device that uses subatomic particles (such as electrons, protons, and neutrons) to create effects like transforming thorium into uranium-233, a fissile material that can be used in nuclear reactors.
• India already has multiple particle accelerators (cyclotrons and synchrotrons) but lacks any in the GeV range; current accelerators are around 30 mega electron-volt (MeV).
• Particle accelerators can tap into India’s vast thorium reserves, enhancing energy security.

Pathways for Leveraging Thorium:

1. Breeding Uranium-233:
   • By irradiating thorium in a fast-breeder reactor, uranium-233 can be produced.
   • This method aligns with India’s three-stage nuclear strategy, enabling surplus fissile material production for expanding nuclear power.
2. High Burn-up Configuration:
   • Using thorium along with uranium in reactors to produce additional energy from in-situ fission of uranium-233.
   • An advanced approach under development, with Clean Core Thorium Energy creating a specialized fuel, ANEEL, which is being tested in the U.S.
3. High-Energy Proton Accelerators:
   • The planned 1 GeV accelerator would create neutrons to breed uranium-233 from
   • The technology could be used in an “accelerator-driven subcritical reactor system” (ADSS) for efficient energy production.

Additional Planned Accelerators:

• Second 1 GeV Accelerator: To create neutrons for scientific research, focusing on studying atomic structures (spallation neutron source).
• Synchrotron Radiation Source: For generating X-rays or UV light, beneficial for various scientific experiments.

Global Significance

• Building these 1 GeV accelerators will place India among an elite group of nations with advanced particle accelerator technology.

ANEEL Fuel:

• The Chicago-based company Clean Core Thorium Energy, founded by Mehul Shah, has developed (and patented) a fuel, which is a mix of Thorium and Uranium of a certain level of enrichment, called HALEU (High Assay Low Enriched Uranium). Clean Core calls this concoction ANEEL (Advanced Nuclear Energy for Enriched Life) — named so to honour one of India’s foremost nuclear scientists, Dr Anil Kakodkar.
• With this India can guarantee green energy security for the subcontinent by fast-tracking the use of Thorium in nuclear reactors.

Use of thorium in ANEEL fuel:

• Thorium is a fertile material and not a fissile material.
• This means it must be paired with Uranium-235 or Plutonium-239 to be used as fuel in a reactor.
• As neutrons from these fissile materials bombard Thorium, it mutates into Uranium-233, which is also a fissile material.
• So, to use the Thorium in India, you need sufficient stocks of Uranium-235 (which India has very little of), or Plutonium-239 (which is produced using Uranium-235).
• So, to use a minimum of uranium and a maximum of thorium fuel, the company has developed the ANEEL fuel.

Uses of ANEEL fuel:

• It can be used in the existing Pressurized Heavy-Water Reactors (PHWRs), an indigenous reactor system that is the workhorse of India’s nuclear fleet.
• India has 18 PHWR reactors with a total capacity of 4,460 MW and is building ten more of 700 MW each.
• India’s approach to Thorium utilisation has been to make a Thorium blanket around uranium or plutonium reactors so that as the reactor produces energy, it also converts thorium into uranium-233. However, ANEEL provides an easier and quicker alternative for the deployment of thorium leveraging imported HALEU.

Advantages:

• The use of thorium in nuclear reactors reduces nuclear waste significantly.
• ANEEL fuel lasts much longer and burns more efficiently.
• The spent ANEEL fuel cannot be used for weapons.

Infrastructural challenges:

• According to the World Nuclear Association, most of the current reactors run on uranium fuel enriched up to 5 percent Uranium-235.
• HALEU is Uranium enriched to more than 5 per cent but less than 20 per cent.
• It is needed for many of the advanced nuclear reactor designs under development.
• HALEU is not yet widely available commercially. At present, only Russia and China have the infrastructure to produce HALEU at scale.

Thorium in India:

• India has the world’s largest reserves of Thorium, estimated at 1.07 million tonnes, enough to last over a century. If India uses this Thorium, it can then produce enough green energy and easily turn net-zero by its target date of 2070.
• Thorium is derived from minerals like monazite (containing 10% thoria and 0.3% urania) and thorianite.
• Monazite sands, found widely on the Kerala coast, serve as the primary source of refined thorium.
• Monazite is a reddish-brown phosphate mineral containing rare earth metals.
• The state-wise resources of in situ monazite established by AMD as of September 2014 are as follows:

5. Manipur’s non-Naga Thadou community lends support to NRC

Sub : Geo

Sec: Human Geo

Context:

• Thadou community of Manipur has expressed support for the National Register of Citizens (NRC) initiative. The declaration was made during a convention held in Guwahati.
• During the convention, they also adopted a resolution to back the Manipur government’s war on drugs.

About Thadou community:

• The Thadou community is an indigenous ethnic group primarily found in the northeastern state of Manipur, as well as in parts of Nagaland, Assam, Myanmar and Bangladesh.
• The Thadous, also called Thadou Kukis, are one of the oldest and largest non-Naga tribes in Manipur.
• They belong to the broader Kuki-Zo ethnic group, but have a distinct cultural and historical identity.
• The Thadous speak the Thadou language, which is a member of the Kuki-Chin-Mizo group within the Tibeto-Burman language family.
• Christianity is the dominant religion among Thadous.
• Since May 2023, the Thadous have been caught in the ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.

Tribes of Manipur

1) Aimol: Aimol is listed under the Kuki tribes found living both in Assam and Manipur. They speak Aimol language, classified under Kuki-Chin-Mizo language. They are based in parts of Chandel district, Senapati district and around Loktak Lake in Bishnupur district. They practice slash and burn agriculture and are primarily Christians.

2) Anal: The Anal tribe is one of the oldest dwellers in the Southern hills of Tengnoupal district. They were recognized as a tribe in 1951. Earlier they were recognized as one of the oldest Kuki tribes but nowadays they identify themselves as a Naga tribe.

3) Chiru: Chirus are one of the earliest inhabitants of Manipur and Assam. It was recognized as a Scheduled Tribe in 1956. They are found in four districts of the state, in Tamenglong, Kangpokpi, Churachandpur and Thoubal district. They speak Chiru dialect, one of Kuki-Chin-Naga languages.

4) Chothe: They are settled in Chandel and Bishnupur districts and speak a Kuki-Chin dialect. Their main occupations are cultivation, livestock rearing, blacksmith and weaving. They are divided into seven clans.

5) Gangte: They are one of the major Kuki-Chin tribes dwelling in Churachandpur, Tamenglong and Senapati districts; Christianity being their apex religion. They have quite a strong population with around 40,000 worldwide, as of 2018. The Gangtes are also one of the educated and a developed lot with 99% literacy rate.

6) Hmar: They belong to Kuki-Chin-Mizo group concentrated mainly in Churachandpur district. Agriculture and weaving are their main occupations. They adopted Christianity from 1910. Hmar have their village administration consisting of Lal (Chief), Khawnbawlupa (chief minister), Khonbols (ministers).

7) Kharam: They are settled in 7 villages in Senapati district, of which KharamPallen village is their main biggest settlement. They were recognized as a scheduled tribe in 2003. Most of them follow Christianity.

8) Khoibu: Khoibu is one of the Naga tribes of Manipur. They speak Khoibu dialect and call themselves ‘Uipo’. KhoibuKhullen is the oldest and the first Khoibu settlement village in Chandel district. They are recognized as a Scheduled Tribe of Manipur in 1949.

9) Koirao: Also called themselves ‘Thangals’, are settled mostly in Senapati district. They are close-knit and live in hill villages mostly located along the National Highway No. 2. Thangals generally dress in bright and colorful attires.

10) Kom: Koms are settled in Churachandpur, Tengnoupal and Senapati districts. They speak language similar to that of Koireng, Aimol and Chiru and closely related to the Hmar. Christianity is its main religion. Some major festivals of Koms are Seling, Hlungphun, Belam and Lamkut.

11) Inpui: Inpui is one of the Naga tribes of Manipur. They initially settled in Haochong sub-division of Tamenglong, and Senapati districts. They speak the Inpui also known as the Puiron language. Many of the Inpuis have also settled in Imphal valley. They are the lovers of festivals and they observe several festivals throughout the year. Some of their major festivals include Karing-Ngei, Tataaknu, Nabitnu, Ba-Ngeipui, Muiliangnu, etc. The festivals are celebrated to showcase the culture, tradition and strength of the Inpuis.

12) Lamkang: The Lamkang tribe is one of the Naga tribes that mostly settled in Manipur and Myanmar. They share close cultural and language similarity with the Anal tribe. They speak the Lamkang dialect which originally belongs to the Tibeto-Burman group of language.

13) Liangmai: They settle in Tamenglong, Kangpokpi and Senapati districts of Manipur. The Liangmais in Manipur follow Christianity while there are some non- Christians in Nagaland. They speak the Liangmai language, a Tibeto-Burman language. Chaga- Ngee is the biggest festival of the Liangmai community which is celebrated in the month of October. This festival showcases their rich culture and tradition.

14) Mao: The Mao tribe is one of the major tribes constituting the Nagas. They mainly settled in Senapati district of Manipur. Agriculture is their main occupation while many have started to adopt other business activities. Christianity is their main religion. Chiithuni and Saleni are their major festivals.

15) Maram: The Maram tribe is one of the tribes that form the Naga tribes of Manipur. They mainly settled in Senapati and Kangpokpi districts of Manipur and speak the Maram language. Agriculture is the main occupation of the people- both men and women. The most important festival for the Marams is the Ponghi festival. This is a pre-harvest festival which is celebrated for 7 days in the month of July. The Kanghi festival is another major festival celebrated in the month of December.

16) Maring: The Marings are settled mostly in Chandel District of Manipur. Some of them also settle in places like Senapati, Ukhrul, Churachandpur, Tamenglong and Thoubal. There are also few Maring villages in Andro and Waithou. They speak the Maring language. Agriculture is the main occupation of the people. They follow Christianity however there are one or two non- Christian practitioner in every village. The Hnungkaap is their biggest festival which is celebrated after every five years in the month of May.

17) Mate: The Mate tribe belongs to the Kuki tribes of Manipur. They speak the “Mate Pao” language which is similar to the language of the Thadou tribe. Earlier, they settled in the hills of Myanmar but now with the growth of their population they have started to settle in various parts of Manipur.

18) Monsang: The Monsang tribe mostly settled in Chandel district of Manipur. They have their own distinct culture and tradition. They speak the Monsang language which is a Sino-Tibetan language of Northeast India.

19) Moyon: They mainly settled in Chandel district of Manipur. They are involved in consuming rice beer, which they make locally and in a traditional way with the help of fermented rice. They have unique designs of traditional dress which is related to their history and culture. Women are involved in designing and weaving the attire by themselves. The Moyon tribe preserves their tradition and culture by passing from generation to generation through folk tales and folk dances. Moyons also have their own music and musical instruments which are used in festivals and different dances.

20) Paite: The Paites are dominant in Churachandpur district of Manipur. Jhum cultivation is the main occupation of the people in the villages. The tradition of folksongs and folktales and culture of the people have been passed through generations. They speak the Paite language and follow Christianity.

21) Poumai: The Poumais mostly settled in Senapati district of Manipur. They speak their own language called the Poula and are generally Christians. Thounii is one of their major festival. This festival is translated as “New year festival or the festival of dawn”. On festivals and occasions, men wear Roh-lai (a type of crown), Vee-hoxzu (a colourful bird’s feather), Phao-hah, paongi (bangles), etc. Women wear Lakiteisha (a black shawl with red and green stripes), Poupumu (a white-skirt with black and green stripes), bangles and necklaces.

National Register of Citizens (NRC):

• The National Register of Citizens (NRC) is a register that contains the names of all legal Indian citizens.
• The only time a nation-wide NRC was created was in 1951 after the Census of 1951.
• At present, only Assam has such a National Register of Citizens, mandated and monitored by the Supreme Court in 2014.

6. India’s first ‘teal carbon’ study bets on wetlands to address the challenges of climate adaptation and resilience

Sub: Env

Sec: Climate Change

Context:

• India’s first study on teal carbon, conducted at Keoladeo National Park (KNP) in Rajasthan’s Bharatpur district, highlights the importance of conserving wetlands as part of climate adaptation and resilience efforts.
• Study Objective: Aimed to explore teal carbon’s potential in climate change mitigation if pollution in wetlands can be minimized.

Teal Carbon:

• Teal Carbon: Refers to carbon stored in non-tidal freshwater wetlands, such as vegetation, microbial biomass, and organic matter.
  • Differentiates from black and brown carbon, which are byproducts of incomplete combustion from sources like wildfires and fossil fuel use.
  • Wetlands are crucial in regulating greenhouse gases but are sensitive to degradation from pollution, land use changes, water extraction, and landscape modifications.
• Teal Carbon Storage Estimate: Estimated at 500.21 petagrams of carbon (PgC) across global ecosystems.
  • Major contributors include peatlands, freshwater swamps, and natural marshes.

Importance of Wetland Conservation:

• Degraded wetlands can release methane and carbon dioxide, exacerbating global warming.
• Effective conservation strategies include:
  • Ensuring water availability
  • Selecting appropriate vegetation to maintain the teal carbon pools
• Benefits of teal carbon ecosystems include:
  • Enhanced groundwater levels
  • Flood mitigation
  • Reduction of urban heat islands, supporting sustainable urban adaptation.

Mitigation Strategies:

• Biochar Application: To reduce methane emissions, the study proposes using a specialized biochar (a lightweight carbon-rich material).
  • Requires advanced instruments like the LI-COR device for accurate, real-time greenhouse gas measurements.

Source: TH

7. Supreme Court Considers Perpetual Ban on Firecrackers in Delhi Amid Rising Pollution Levels

Sub : Polity

Sec: Constitution

Why in News

The Supreme Court of India is deliberating on imposing a perpetual ban on the use of firecrackers in Delhi, as pollution levels have reached record highs during the festival of Deepavali. The court has directed the Delhi government and the city’s police commissioner to submit affidavits explaining the lack of enforcement of the ban and detailing future plans for curbing the use of firecrackers.

About Air Pollution Act:

The Air Pollution Act, primarily referred to as the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, is a legislative framework designed to prevent, control, and mitigate air pollution in India.

Major Provisions of the Air Pollution Act, 1981

The Act established the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) to monitor and manage air quality.

It empowered state governments, in consultation with SPCBs, to declare specific regions as air pollution control areas and enforce restrictions in these zones.

The Act mandates setting and enforcing emission standards for industrial plants and vehicles to reduce air pollution levels.

Provisions were made for penalties and legal action against those violating the norms, including fines and imprisonment.

The Act authorizes the SPCBs to conduct inspections and monitor industries to ensure compliance with established norms.

Recent Changes and Amendments to the Act

Amendments Effective April 1, 2024: The most notable amendment to the Air Pollution Act involved the dilution of punitive measures. Previously, severe violations could lead to imprisonment and higher fines.

The amended version replaced these stringent punishments with a system that imposes only monetary penalties.

The shift from imprisonment to financial penalties has been criticized for reducing the deterrent effect, potentially leading to non-compliance by industries and individuals.

The Supreme Court and various stakeholders have expressed concern that the amendments may hinder the strict implementation of anti-pollution measures, as demonstrated by recent court observations related to firecracker bans and other pollution control measures.

8. Himachal Pradesh Proposes Running Kalka-Shimla Toy Trains on Green Hydrogen

Sub : History

Sec: Art and Culture

Why in News

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister has urged the Central government to consider running toy trains on the Kalka-Shimla narrow-gauge railway using green hydrogen. This historic rail line is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the proposal aligns with the State’s goal of becoming a ‘green energy State’ by 2026.

About the Kalka–Shimla Railway:

The Kalka-Shimla railway is a narrow-gauge line in Himachal Pradesh that connects Kalka to Shimla, traversing a mountainous route.

It is a 2 ft 6 in (762 mm) narrow-gauge railway in North India which traverses a mostly mountainous route from Kalka to Shimla.

It is known for dramatic views of the hills and surrounding villages. The railway was built under the direction of Herbert Septimus Harington between 1898 and 1903 to connect Shimla, the summer capital of India during the British Raj, with the rest of the Indian rail system.

Its early locomotives were manufactured by Sharp, Stewart and Company. Larger locomotives were introduced, which were manufactured by the Hunslet Engine Company.

Diesel and diesel-hydraulic locomotives began operation in 1955 and 1970, respectively.

On 8 July 2008, UNESCO added the Kalka–Shimla Railway to the mountain railways of India World Heritage Site.

About Green hydrogen: 

Green hydrogen is hydrogen produced using renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power through a process called electrolysis, which splits water into hydrogen and oxygen. This process emits no greenhouse gases, making it a clean and sustainable energy source.

The Union Ministry of New & Renewable Energy defines green hydrogen when the well-to-gate emission (encompassing water treatment, electrolysis, gas purification, drying and compression of hydrogen) not exceeding 2 kg CO2 equivalent per kg H2.

Gray hydrogen, on average, emits 10 kg of CO2 per kg of H2 produced.

Hydrogen has superior calorific value (119.93 megajoules / kg) compared to gasoline (44.5 megajoules / kg).

Burning hydrogen results in fewer harmful emissions into the atmosphere.

Himachal Pradesh’s Green Energy Strategy:

The State government is implementing a comprehensive approach to transition to sustainable energy, contributing to India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

Plans are in place to replace 1,500 MUs of thermal power with renewable energy from hydro, solar, and wind sources.

Achieving 90% renewable energy in its power distribution network will enable the State to be recognized as a fully green State. The transition is expected to be completed within a year, allowing industries to apply for the ‘Eco Mark’ for product value enhancement.

The State aims to develop 2,000 Megawatts (MW) of solar power capacity over the next four to five years.

The first green hydrogen production facility is being developed in collaboration with Oil India Limited (OIL).

The government is in discussions with private investors to establish additional facilities, boosting green hydrogen production.

9. China’s Astronauts Return After Six-Month Mission on Tiangong Space Station

Sub : Sci

Sec: Space sector

Why in News

Three Chinese astronauts returned to Earth after completing a six-month mission on Tiangong, China’s space station. This mission underscores China’s advancements in space exploration and its aspirations to become a leading space power.

Landing Details: The capsule, carrying three astronauts, made a successful nighttime landing in Inner Mongolia.

About Tiangong Space Station:

The Tiangong space station is a Chinese space station built in low Earth orbit between 340 and 450 kilometres above the earth.

It is part of China Manned Space Program and is the country’s first long-term space station.

The three modules of the Tiangong Space Station are 

• The Tianhe means “Harmony of the Heavens” is the core module.
• Wentian means “Quest for the Heavens” is a laboratory cabin module.
• Mengtian means “Dreaming of the Heavens” is a laboratory module.

With the fully functioning of the Space station China will become only the third country in history to have put both astronauts into space and to build a space station, after Russia and the US.

It is one-fifth the mass of the International Space Station

Challenges Faced by Tiangong:

The Tiangong space station had to perform multiple evasive manoeuvres to avoid potential collisions with space debris. This highlights the growing challenge of maintaining the safety of operational satellites and space stations in increasingly crowded orbital paths.

Space debris, or space junk, refers to defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and fragments from collisions that orbit Earth. This debris poses significant risks to active space missions and satellites.

Tiangong experienced a partial power loss when debris struck and damaged the power cables of its solar wing, reducing its energy output.

10. Bob Khathing Museum of Valour inaugurated: Who was he, his role in integrating Tawang into India

Sub : History

Sec: Personality

Context:

• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Major Ralengnao ‘Bob’ Khathing Museum of Valour at Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh on October 31, celebrated as National Unity Day after the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

About Bob Khathing:

• Ralengnao Khathing, also known as Bob Khathing, was an Indian soldier, civil servant and diplomat and the first person of tribal origin to serve as an Ambassador for India.
• He led the legendary expedition to peacefully integrate Tawang into India.
• He was also instrumental in establishing military and security frameworks, such as the Sashastra Seema Bal, Nagaland Armed Police, and the Naga Regiment.

Early Life and Education:

• Khathing was born on February 28, 1912, in Ukhrul district, Manipur, and belonged to the Tangkhul Naga community.
• He studied at Sir Johnstone High School in Imphal and completed his matriculation from Shillong. He later attended Cotton College in Guwahati. He also worked as the Head Master of Ukhrul High School and founded a school at Harasingha in Assam’s Darrang district.

Military Service and Role in WWII:

• Khathing joined the Indian Army in 1939 after the outbreak of the Second World War and was granted an Emergency Commission as an officer.
• During the Second World War, he was part of a guerrilla outfit called Victor Force, raised by the British to combat the Japanese on the Burma-India Road.
• In 1944, the SANCOL force was formed, consisting of the 153 Gurkha Parachute Battalion under Major John Saunders, with Bob Khathing appointed as its Advisor. SANCOL was tasked with tracking Japanese soldiers and preventing them from escaping to the southeast.

Military Recognition:

• For his bravery and leadership, Khathing was awarded the Military Cross (MC) for gallantry and the Member of the British Empire (MBE) for his contribution in organizing Naga support against the Japanese forces.

Post-War Career:

• At the end of the Second World War, the Emergency Commissioned officers in the Army were demobilised.
• He then became involved in the political landscape of Manipur, becoming a minister in the interim government, in charge of the hill areas.
• Following Manipur’s merger with India in 1949, the interim government was dissolved.
• Khathing joined the Assam Rifles, serving with the 2nd Assam Rifles Battalion for two years.

Career in Administration:

• In 1951, Khathing joined the Indian Frontier Administrative Service (IFAS) as an assistant political officer.
• He went on to serve as Deputy Commissioner of Mokokchung (in Nagaland), Development Commissioner in Sikkim, and Chief Secretary of Nagaland.
• His career ended as ambassador to Burma in 1975, making him possibly the first person of tribal origin to be appointed ambassador in independent India.

Tawang Expedition (1951)

• In the early 1950s, China annexed Tibet and declared it as part of its territory. The Indian government to assert control over the strategically important region of Tawang, which was culturally and historically linked to Tibet.
• In 1951 Khathing, then a member of the Indian Frontier Administrative Service, was appointed by the Governor of Assam to occupy Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh, a region that was strategically important due to growing Chinese influence in Tibet.
• Khathing led the expedition with troops of the Assam Rifles, navigating hostile terrain and extreme weather conditions.
• Once they arrived in Tawang, Khathing held parleys with the locals, winning over their trust.
• He officially took Tawang under Indian administration by hoisting the Indian flag on February 14, 1951.
• He also set up an administrative structure by appointing Gaon Buras (village elders) to help manage the local administration.

Legacy:

• Bob Khathing passed away on January 12, 1990, in Imphal, leaving behind a legacy of service to both the military and administrative spheres of India.
• For his contributions to India’s national security and integration efforts, Major Khathing was awarded numerous honours, including the Padma Shri in 1957.

11. Unexpected connection between nickel toxicity and cholesterol found

Sub : Sci

Sec: Health

Context:

• A recent study by a team from the University of Georgia uncovered an unexpected connection between nickel toxicity and sterol biosynthesis.

Nickel:

• While nickel is toxic in high concentrations, certain organisms like plants, bacteria, and fungi require nickel for the proper function of the enzyme urease. Urease helps in processes such as nitrogen fixation and fungal colonization
• In humans, nickel is a known allergen and is associated with contact dermatitis. Nickel compounds are also considered

Sterols in Organisms:

• Sterols are crucial components of cell membranes in animals, fungi, and plants.
• In mammals, cholesterol is the primary sterol, while in fungi, ergosterol is the major sterol.
• Cholesterol is associated with cardiovascular diseases when it accumulates in blood vessels, whereas ergosterol is essential for fungal cell membrane integrity.
• Many antifungal drugs work by inhibiting ergosterol biosynthesis, making it a key target for therapy.

Key findings:

• The researchers discovered that exposure to the heavy metal nickel led to sterol deficiency in both mammalian and fungal cells.
• This included a decrease in cholesterol in mammalian cells and ergosterol in fungal cells.
• The study also showed that overexpression of a gene called ERG25 in fungi helped them tolerate higher concentrations of nickel.

12. RBI Intervenes to Stabilize Rupee Amid Depreciation Against US Dollar

Sub : Eco

Sec: External sector

• RBI’s Intervention: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) stepped in to prevent further depreciation of the Indian rupee, which recently closed at a record low of 84.11 against the US dollar on November 4, 2024. This intervention aims to manage forex reserves and mitigate excessive volatility.
• Reasons for Depreciation:
  • FPI Outflows: October saw Rs 94,017 crore withdrawn from Indian equities by Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs). So far, November has witnessed an additional outflow of Rs 4,344 crore, intensifying pressure on the rupee.
  • Geopolitical Tensions and Crude Prices: Ongoing conflicts in the Middle East have pushed up crude oil prices, raising India’s import expenses and impacting the current account deficit, which exerts additional pressure on the rupee.
  • US Treasury Yields and Interest Rates: The US Federal Reserve’s recent 50 basis point (bps) rate cut in September increased the attractiveness of US Treasury notes, which saw a yield surge of 61 bps. This narrowed the spread between US and Indian government bonds, furthering FPI outflows from Indian debt markets.
• Decline in India’s Forex Reserves:
  • India’s forex reserves dipped by $3.463 billion in the week ending October 25, reaching $684.805 billion. This decline reflects the RBI’s intervention efforts to stabilize the currency amidst fluctuating market conditions.
  • US Dollar Strength: Speculation around another 25 bps rate cut by the US Fed has bolstered the US dollar, making it more attractive to investors and thus weakening the rupee.
  • Election Impact on Currency Markets

This combined pressure from FPI outflows, rising crude prices, higher US Treasury yields, and the robust US dollar has created a challenging environment for the rupee, prompting RBI’s intervention to curb its decline and ensure stability in the forex market.

Treasury Yields

Treasury Yields refer to the returns or interest rates earned by investors who hold government debt securities, such as Treasury bonds, notes, or bills.

How Treasury Yields Are Determined:

• Treasury yields are set through auctions.
• The yield, or return, on these securities depends on the price investors are willing to pay relative to the bond’s face value.
• Market forces, such as supply and demand, impact these yields. When demand is high, prices rise, and yields fall; when demand is low, prices drop, and yields rise.

Yield Movements and Interest Rates:

Yield and Price Inverse Relationship: When bond prices rise, yields fall, and vice versa. For instance, if investors buy more Treasuries, prices go up, leading to a lower yield.

Interest Rate Connection: Treasury yields influence and reflect broader interest rates in the economy. If yields rise, borrowing becomes more expensive, which can slow down economic growth. Conversely, lower yields indicate cheaper borrowing, potentially boosting economic activity 

Yield Curve: The yield curve is a graph showing yields across various maturities. A typical curve is upward-sloping (higher yields for longer maturities). However, an inverted yield curve (when short-term yields exceed long-term yields) can signal potential economic recession.