4th March 2024 – Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs Reverse Engineering

Care (4-03-2024)

 

 

News at a Glance

 

National- Centre, TIPRA Motha, Tripura govt. sign tripartite agreement
Economy- Odisha’s Famed Rupa Tarakasi and Banglar Muslin Earn GI Tag
International: UN peacekeepers and Cyprus divide
Ecology and Environment- International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)
World Wildlife Day 2024
Forest Fire

 

 

 

Centre, TIPRA Motha, Tripura govt. sign tripartite agreement Fire

Source: The Hindu

Context: : A committee would be formed to resolve issues of the indigenous people of Tripura

 UPSC Syllabus Relevance GS – 2 (Polity and Governance)

Why in news

  • The Government of India, the government of Tripura, and the Tipraha Indigenous Progressive Regional Alliance (TIPRA) signed a tripartite agreement to address the issues faced by the indigenous people of Tripura, who make up 33% of the population.

Key highlights

  • The agreement contains the formation of a joint working committee to resolve issues related to the “history, land rights, political rights, economic development, identity, culture, and language” of the indigenous people of the State.
  • TIPRA, also known as TIPRA Motha, has agreed to refrain from any form of protest until a solution is reached in a timely manner.
  • The agreement was signed by TIPRA founder and royal scion Pradyot Bikram Manikya Deb Barma, party President Bijoy Kumar Hrangkhawl and Leader of the Opposition in the State Assembly Animesh Debbarma on behalf of their party.

About Agreement

  • The agreement signed did not specify a timeline for the formation of the joint working committee, but a senior TIPRA leader stated that the formation of the joint working committee would be done next week.
  • Committee will include representatives from the Ministry, the Tripura government, TIPRA and the Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura (IPFT), which is an alliance partner of the BJP in the ruling coalition.

Background

  • The signing of the agreement occurred three days after Mr. Pradyot Manikya launched a fast unto death at Hatai Kotor (formerly Boromura Hills) in west Tripura to protest the Central government’s alleged reluctance to provide a constitutional solution to the problems faced by the indigenous people.
  • TIPRA has become a major player in State politics with its demand for Greater Tipraland or a separate State for the indigenous population.

 

 CARE MCQ  UPSC PYQ
Q1. Consider the following statements:

1. Tipraha Indigenous Progressive Regional Alliance (TIPRA) recently reached an agreement with Central and state government.

2. TIPRA has been demanding for a separate State for the indigenous population in Mizoram.

Which of the above statements is/are incorrect?

A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. 1 and 2

D. Neither 1 nor 2

 

Q. If a particular area is brought under the Fifth Schedule of the Constitution of India, which one of the following statements best reflects the consequence of it? (UPSC Prelims 2022)

(a) This would prevent the transfer of land of tribal people to non-tribal people.

(b) This would create a local self-governing body in that area.

(c) This would convert that area into a Union Territory.

(d) The State having such areas would be declared a Special Category State.

Answer – (a)  

 

                                                                                                                                                                                        

Ans 1 B

Explanation

·         The Government of India, the government of Tripura, and the Tipraha Indigenous Progressive Regional Alliance (TIPRA) signed a tripartite agreement to address the issues faced by the indigenous people of Tripura, who make up 33% of the population. So, statement 1 is correct.

·         TIPRA has become a major player in Tripura politics with its demand for Greater Tipraland or a separate State for the indigenous population.

·         The agreement contains the formation of a joint working committee to resolve issues related to the “history, land rights, political rights, economic development, identity, culture, and language” of the indigenous people of the State. So, statement 2 is incorrect.

  • Hence correct answer is option B

 

 

 

Odisha’s Famed Rupa Tarakasi and Banglar Muslin Earn GI Tag

Source: The Hindu

Context: GS Paper – 3 Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs), GS -1 (Art and Culture)

UPSC Syllabus relevance: Cuttack’s Unique Silver Filigree Granted Geographical Indication (GI) Tag

Why in news

  • Odisha’s renowned crafts, the Rupa Tarakasi (Silver Filigree) and Banglar Muslin, have been granted the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag, signifying their unique cultural and historical significance.

Rupa Tarakasi Receives GI Tag

  • The esteemed Cuttack Rupa Tarakasi, a traditional Silver Filigree craft, has been awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Geographical Indications Registry in Chennai.
  • This recognition is a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship and historical roots of this art form, which has been associated with fine design and luxury in classical jewelry for centuries.
  • The application for the GI tag was filed by the Odisha State Co-operative Handicrafts Corporation Limited and facilitated by the Department of Textile and Handicrafts, Government of Odisha.
  • The historical records attached to the GI filing highlight the ancient origins of filigree work, dating back to 3500 BCE in Mesopotamia, and its potential migration to Cuttack from Persia through Indonesia around 500 years ago via sea trade.

Banglar Muslin’s Distinctive Recognition

  • The Banglar Muslin, a traditional handloom craft of Bengal, has also received the GI tag.
  • This finest form of muslin, made of cotton with exceptional tensile strength, has been acknowledged for its intricate craftsmanship and unique designs.
  • Notably, Narsapur in the West Godavari region of Andhra Pradesh, known for its crochet skills, has gained global acclaim for its exquisite crochet craft, which was introduced to the region by missionaries and has become a center for intricate handmade crocheted lace work.

Other Recognitions

  • In addition to Rupa Tarakasi and Banglar Muslin, several other products have also secured the GI tag.
  • These include the Ratlam Riyawan Lahsun (Garlic) from Ratlam district of Madhya Pradesh, Ambaji White Marble, Tripura Risa Textile, Hyderabad Lac Bangles, Majuli Mask of Assam, and the Assam Majuli Manuscript Painting.
  • Each of these products represents unique cultural and historical traditions, and the GI tag serves to protect and promote their distinctiveness.
  • The recognition of these traditional crafts through the GI tag not only celebrates their historical and cultural significance but also provides them with legal protection, ensuring their authenticity and promoting their economic potential.

About GI Tag

  • A Geographical Indication (GI) is a sign or name used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation due to that origin.
  • GI tags are used on the following types of products: Handicrafts, Food items, Wine and drinks, Industrial products, Agricultural products.
  • GI tags ensure that only the authorized users or those residing in the geographical territory are allowed to use the popular product name.
  • Registration of a GI is not compulsory, but it does provide legal protection.
  • Registration prevents unauthorized use of a GI by others, and it can also boost exports.
  • The Geographical Indication Registry under the Department of Industry Promotion and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry issues GI tags.

What is the benefit of registration of geographical indications

  • It confers legal protection to Geographical Indications in India.
  • Prevents unauthorised use of a Registered Geographical Indication by others.
  • It provides legal protection to Indian Geographical Indications which in turn boost exports.
  • It promotes economic prosperity of producers of goods produced in a geographical territory.

Legal Framework and Governance

  • Article 22 (1) of Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) defines GIs as “indications which identify a good as originating in the territory of a member, or a region or locality in that territory, where a given quality, reputation or other characteristic of the good is essentially attributable to its geographic origin”.
  • In many EU nations, GI is classified in two basic categories Protected GI (PGI) and Protected Destination of Origin (PDO). India only has the PGI category.
  • The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 seeks to provide for the registration and better protection of geographical indications relating to goods in India.
  • Paris Convention emphasises protecting industrial property and geographical indications in Articles 1(2) and 10.

 

 

 CARE MCQ  UPSC PYQ
Q2. Consider the following pairs:

Which of the following has/have been accorded ‘Geographical Indication’ status?

Craft                          State

1. Crochet craft                 – Odisha

2. Banglar Muslin                        – West Bengal

3. Lac Bangles                    -Telangana

Select the correct matched answer using the code given below:

A. 3 only

B. 2 and 3 only

C. 1 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

 

 

Q. India enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 in order to comply with the obligations to (UPSC Prelims 2018)

A. ILO

B. IMF

C. UNCTAD

D. WTO

 

Answer: D

 

 

Answer 2– B

Explanation –

·         Narsapur in the West Godavari region of Andhra Pradesh, known for its crochet skills, has gained global acclaim for its exquisite crochet craft. So, the pair 1 is incorrect.

·         Banglar Muslin, of West Bengal have been granted the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag. So, the pair 2 is correct.

·         The lac bangles of Hyderabad have been registered with the Registrar of Geographical Indications, Chennai. This is the second GI tag for a Hyderabad product after haleem. So, pair 3 is correct.

·         Hence option B is correct answer.

 

 

 

UN peacekeepers and Cyprus divide

Source: The Hindu

Context: 60 years of Police Peacekeeping in Cyprus celebrated

 UPSC Syllabus Relevance:  GS 2 ( International Relationship and border conflict )

Why in News

  • It has been 60 years since the arrival of the UN peacekeepers, 50 years since a coup supported by Athens tried to unite Cyprus with Greece, which led to a Turkish invasion and the splitting of the island.

Introduction

  • The United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) was established in 1964 to prevent further fighting between the Greek-Cypriot and Turkish-Cypriot communities on the island of Cyprus.
  • The ongoing dispute between the Greek Cypriot community and the Turkish Cypriot community is known as the Cyprus problem.
  • The Greek Cypriot community runs the Republic of Cyprus, which since 1974 has only comprised the south of the island. The Turkish Cypriot community is in the north.
  • In 1964, Greek Cypriots burned down Turkish Cypriot houses and mosques, including 103 mosques.
  • In 1963, Greek Cypriot gunmen killed a Turkish woman and her three children in Lefkosa.
  • In 1996, UNFICYP covers the period from the establishment of UNFICYP until 1996.

What is the conflict in Cyprus

  • The conflict in Cyprus has been ongoing since 1974, when Turkish troops split off a third of the island for Turkish Cypriots. The Turkish Cypriot zone declared independence in 1983, but only Türkiye recognizes it.
  • The conflict has roots in the Ottoman Empire’s invasion of Cyprus in 1570.
  • In 1878, the island came under British control. In 1955, the Greek Cypriot majority led a campaign for Enosis, which is the removal of British rule and unification with Greece.
  • The campaign involved attacks on the government and military. In 1960, Cyprus became a republic.
  • In 1974, Turkey invaded the north of the island in response to a military coup backed by the Greek government.
  • The United Nations recognizes the sovereignty of the Republic of Cyprus, but the conflict continues to affect Turkey’s relations with Cyprus, Greece, and the European Union.

Why did the Annan plan fail

  • Some say the Annan Plan failed because of Kofi Annan’s strategic mistakes and because it doesn’t capture the relational dimensions of the conflict.
  • Others say the plan has problems with its provisions on sovereignty, security, power-sharing, and human rights.
  • The plan’s provisions don’t include incentives to secure the support of elected political elites and undecided voters.
  • The Greek Cypriots claim that the Annan Plan legalizes and deepens the de facto division.
  • They say that the plan would prevent Greek Cypriots from making up more than 6% of the population in any single village in the Turkish controlled areas in the north.
  • This would prevent them from setting up their own schools for their children.
  • The Annan Plan was rejected in a referendum held in the southern part of the island, while the Turkish Cypriots voted in favor of the plan.

Why is Cyprus still divided

  • Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded the island in response to a Greek military coup.
  • The coup was backed by Greece’s then-ruling junta and aimed to unite the island with mainland Greece.
  • In 1983, the Turkish-controlled zone declared its independence as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
  • However, only Türkiye recognizes the claim.
  • The Republic of Cyprus is de facto divided into two parts: the area under the effective control of the Republic, and the north, administered by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
  • The United Nations Buffer Zone runs between the ceasefire lines of the Cypriot National Guard and Turkish army, cutting through the capital of Nicosia.
  • The northern part of Cyprus is legally part of the EU, but law is suspended due to it being under the control of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, which the EU does not recognize.

 

 

 CARE MCQ  UPSC PYQ
Q3. Which event led to the establishment of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP)?

A. The Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974.

B. The Greek Cypriot campaign for Enosis in 1955.

C. The burning down of Turkish Cypriot houses and mosques by Greek Cypriots in 1964.

D. The declaration of independence by the Turkish Cypriot zone in 1983.

 

Q. Consider the following pairs: (UPSC Pre 2020)

Region often mentioned in news              Reason for being in news

1. North Kivu and Ituri    – War between Armenia and Azerbaijan

2. Nagorno-Karabakh     – Insurgency in Mozambique

3. Kherson and Zaporizhzhia        – Dispute between Israel and Lebanon

How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

A. Only one

B. Only two

C. All three

D. None

Answer : D

 

 

 

 

Answer 3 C

Explanation

·         The establishment of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) was a result of the burning down of Turkish Cypriot houses and mosques by Greek Cypriots in 1964.

·         This event led to the need to prevent further fighting between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities on the island and bring about a return to normal conditions.

·         Hence option C is correct answer.

 

 

International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

 Source: The Hindu

UPSC Syllabus relevance: GS Paper – 3 (Wildlife Activities and Environment Impact)

Context: Framework of Agreement of IBCA has been drafted largely on the pattern of International Solar Alliance (ISA)

Why in news

  • India has received consent from 16 out of 96 big cat range countries to join the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) as its members, furthering the country’s green diplomacy in the fields of environmental protection and climate action.

Key highlights

  • The Union Cabinet approved the establishment of International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) with headquarters in India with a one-time budgetary support of Rs.150 crore for a period of five years from 2023-24 to 2027-28.

International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

  • During the Global Tiger Day event in 2019, PM Modi urged global leaders to unite against poaching in Asia.
  • He repeated this call during the 50th anniversary celebration of India’s Project Tiger on April 9, 2023, announcing the launch of an International Big Cat Alliance.
  • The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is a global alliance that aims to conserve the world’s seven main big cats.
  • It will provide a platform for the member nations to share knowledge and expertise and extend support to recovery efforts in potential habitats.

Aim

  • To work towards the protection and conservation of the seven major big cats — tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, puma, jaguar and cheetah.
  • Out of 7 big cats, India is home to 5: Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard and Cheetah.
  • Headquarter: India
  • Membership
  • Membership to the alliance will be open to 96 range countries.
  • These are the countries which contain the natural habitat of these big cats.
  • The alliance is also open to other countries, conservation organisations, scientific organisations, businesses, and corporates interested in supporting big cats.
  • So far, 16 countries have given their written consent to be part of the IBCA.
  • The countries that gave their consent to join IBCA are: Brazil, Egypt, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Kenya, Peru, Malaysia, Uganda, Surinam, Armenia, Cambodia, Ethiopia, Ecuador and Mongolia.
  • In addition, nine international organizations, including the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), have given consent to join the alliance.

Funding

  • The first five years (2023-24 to 2027-28) will be supported by India’s ‘total grant assistance’ ofRs.150 crore.
  • After that, the IBCA is expected to sustain itself through membership fees and contributions from bilateral and multilateral institutions and the private sector.

Activities

  • It will provide a platform for the member nations to share knowledge and expertise and extend support to recovery efforts in potential habitats.
  • Its major activities will include advocacy, partnership, knowledge e-portal, capacity building, eco-tourism, partnerships between expert groups, and finance tapping.
  • IBCA will also assist existing species-specific inter-governmental platforms to boost conservation efforts.

 

 

 CARE MCQ  UPSC PYQ
Q4. Which of the following statements about the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is correct?

1. The IBCA aims to conserve the world’s seven main big cats.

2. Membership to the alliance is open only to the 96 range countries.

3. The framework of agreement of IBCA is modeled largely on the International Solar Alliance (ISA).

4. India’s ‘total grant assistance’ for the first five years is Rs. 150 crore.

Code

A. 1 , 2 and 3

B. 3 and 4

C. 1 , 3 and 4

D. All of the above

 

Q. Among the following Tiger Reserves, which one has the largest area under “Critical Tiger Habitat”? (2020)

A. Corbett

B. Ranthambore

C. Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam

B. Sundarbans

Answer: C

 

 

Answer 4: C

Explanation:

·         The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is a global alliance launched by India in April 2023.

·         The alliance’s goal is to conserve the world’s seven main big cats and their habitats. The seven big cats are:

·         Tiger, Lion, Snow leopard, Leopard, Jaguar, Puma, Cheetah.

The IBCA is a multi-country, multi-agency coalition that includes:

·         96 big cat range countries

·         Non-range countries interested in big cat conservation

·         Conservation partners

·         Scientific organizations

·         Business groups and corporates

·         The IBCA’s headquarters are in India, and membership benefits include a central repository for technical know-how and funds.

 

 

 

World Wildlife Day 2024

Source: The Hindu

UPSC Syllabus relevance: GS 3 (Wildlife conservation), Important Days

Context: World Wildlife Day promote awareness of wild animals and plants around the world.

Why in news

  • World Wildlife Day, celebrated every year on March 3, is celebrated worldwide to spread awareness about the world’s fauna and flora.

About World Wildlife Day 2024

  • On this date, the adoption of the Convention On International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) in 1973, aims that no international trade should threaten the wild species’ survival.
  • This was first made at the 16th meeting at CITES of Bangkok in 2013 and everything was sponsored by the Kingdom of Thailand.

Theme

  • The theme of this year is all about connecting people and the planet. It will be exploring digital innovations in wildlife conservation and will highlight how digital technologies can make wildlife conservation sustainable and legal, to protect endangered species and try not to harm or threaten them and let them live their life freely and not making them caged in a zoo.

Significance

  • World Wildlife Day is about raising awareness about wild fauna and flora and the importance of wildlife and their habitats.
  • It is the day to promote the need for their protection and conversation, to draw the attention of the people to all the challenges that are being faced by the wildlife population and ecosystem, and aim that prevent the trade of endangered species from threatening their survival.

History of World Animals Day

  • World Wildlife Day was first proposed by Thailand to the UN General Assembly in 2013. The idea was to set aside a day to promote awareness of wild animals and plants around the world.
  • The General Assembly adopted a resolution on 20 December 2013, designating March 3 as World Wildlife Day in 2014.
  • The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), a global agreement to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival, was signed on this day in 1973.

About Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)

  • It is an international agreement between governments that aims to ensure that international trade in wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival.
  • CITES was adopted in 1973 and entered into force in 1975.
  • There are 184 member parties, and trade is regulated in more than 38,000 species.
  • Although CITES is legally binding on the Parties – in other words, they have to implement the Convention–it does not take the place of national laws.
  • The CITES Secretariat is administered by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and is located in Geneva, Switzerland.
  • Representatives of CITES nations meet every two to three years at a Conference of the Parties (or COP) to review progress and adjust the lists of protected species, which are grouped into three categories with different levels of protection:

Appendix I:

  • It includes species threatened with extinction and provides the greatest level of protection, including a prohibition on commercial trade.

Appendix II:

  • It includes species that are not currently threatened with extinction but may become so without trade controls.
  • Regulated trade is allowed if the exporting country issues a permit based on findings that the specimens were legally acquired and the trade will not be detrimental to the survival of the species or its role in the ecosystem.

Appendix III:

  • It includes species for which a country has asked other CITES parties to help control international trade.
  • Trade in Appendix III species is regulated using CITES export permits (issued by the country that listed the species in Appendix III) and certificates of origin (issued by all other countries).
  • Countries may list species for which they have domestic regulations in Appendix III at any time.
  • CITES also brings together law enforcement officers from wildlife authorities, national parks, customs, and police agencies to collaborate on efforts to combat wildlife crime targeted at animals such as elephants and rhinos.

 

 

 CARE MCQ  UPSC PYQ
Q5 Consider the following statements regarding the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES):

1. It is an international agreement between governments, that is administered by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

2. CITES is not legally binding on state parties to the convention, which is obliged to adopt their own domestic legislation to implement its goals.

3. CITES was drafted as a result of a resolution adopted at a meeting of members of IUCN.

 

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only

B. 1 and 3 only

C. 2 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3 only

 

Q. Consider the following statements: ( UPSC Prelims 2017)

Statement-1: Marsupials are not naturally found in India.

Statement-II: Marsupials can thrive only in montane grasslands with no predators.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

A.            Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I

B.            Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I

C.            Statement-1 is correct Statement-II is incorrect

D.            Statement-1 is incorrect but Statement-II is correct

Answer: C

 

 

 

 

 

 

Answer 5– B

Explanation

·         Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) is an international agreement toregulate worldwide commercial trade in wild animal and plant species.

·         It restricts trade in items made from such plants and animals, such as food, clothing, medicine, and souvenirs.

·         It was signed on March 3, 1973 (Hence world wildlife day is celebrated on March 3).

·         It is administered by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Hence, statement 1 is correct.

·         Secretariat — Geneva (Switzerland).

·         CITES is legally binding on state parties to the convention, which is obliged to adopt their own domestic legislation to implement its goals. Hence, statement 2 is incorrect.

·         CITES was drafted as a result of a resolution adopted at a meeting of members of IUCN. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

·         Hence option B is correct answer.

 

 

Forest Fire

Source: The Hindu

Context: : Forest Fire: Controlled Burning Underway in Guwahati Outskirts

 UPSC Syllabus Relevance GS – 3 (Environmental Pollution & Degradation)

Why in news

  • The controlled burning of dry leaves has commenced in the hill areas on the outskirts of Guwahati, with plans to continue this practice until the end of April.

Key highlights

  • This forest-fire management technique is being carried out in fire-prone forest areas across the country.
  • Notably, the Kaziranga National Park in Assam has been conducting controlled burning of dried vegetation every year between February and March since 2023.
  • This practice aims to prevent the spread of unwanted grass and facilitate the growth of fresh grass.
  • However, it is important to note that burning dried leaves and other plant parts can have several negative effects, including degrading the soil, producing harmful gases and fumes, and posing health hazards due to the release of hazardous chemicals such as carbon monoxide.

Major Causes of Forest Fires in India

  • Anthropogenic Causes
  • The leading causes of forest fires in India include smoking, unattended campfires, burning debris, and the use of fireworks.
  • These anthropogenic activities often result in wildfires due to negligence and the improper disposal of combustible materials.
  • Natural Causes
  • Natural causes of forest fires in India include lightning strikes and volcanic eruptions.
  • Additionally, the impact of rising temperatures due to global warming is making forests more susceptible to fires.
  • Impact of Forest Fires on Ecosystems
  • Forest fires have significant adverse effects on ecosystems, including the loss of habitats and biodiversity, damage to habitable land for specific animal and plant species, forest degradation, air pollution, and contributing to global warming.
  • Forest Fire Incidents in India
  • Forest fires are a common occurrence in India, particularly during the summer months.
  • According to a 2021 analysis, the frequency of forest fire incidents in India has increased by 52% from 2000 to 2020.
  • The State of Forest Report indicates that 22% of India’s forest cover is highly or extremely fire-prone, with various states experiencing active forest fires.

Initiatives Taken

  • Efforts such as the National Action Plan for Forest Fires (NAPFF) and the Forest Fire Prevention and Management Scheme (FPM) have been implemented to reduce forest fires by informing, enabling, and empowering forest fringe communities and collaborating with state forest departments.

Global News on Forest Fires

  • Internationally, countries such as France, Greece, Portugal, and Spain have experienced devastating forest fires, with scientists attributing these incidents to climate change and predicting more frequent and intense episodes of extreme weather.

NDMA Guidelines to Manage Forest Fires

  • The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has recommended various measures to manage forest fires, including incorporating forest fire prevention and management in existing policy and planning documents, establishing a national forest fire knowledge network, and increasing community awareness.

Global Best Practices Based on Community Participation

  • Several global best practices for managing forest fires have been identified, including the Fire Care Community program in Indonesia and learning from Canadian best practices.
  • These initiatives emphasize the importance of community participation, long-range weather forecasting, technological interventions, insurance as a mitigation tool, awareness and capacity building, and landscape fuel management.
  • In conclusion, managing wildfire risk requires integrated region-specific approaches that consider population awareness and preparedness, ignition likelihood, fire spread forecasting, surveillance and early-warning systems, adaptive suppression strategies, fire-regime restoration and management, landscape-scale fuel management, changes in land-use practices, and active restoration of landscapes.

 

 

 CARE MCQ  UPSC PYQ
Q6. Which of the following are causes of forest fires?

1. Natural – unattended campfires, burning debris, and use of fireworks

2. Anthropogenic causes – Lightning strikes and volcanic eruptions

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. 1 and 2

D. Neither 1 nor 2

 

Q. Consider the following statements with respect to Forest Fire in India: (UPSC Prelims 2018)

1. Forest Survey of India (FSI) analyses the data by overlaying the digitized boundaries of forest areas.

2. The FSI relays news of the fire to the concerned State.

Which of the statements are correct?

A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. Both 1 and 2

D. None of the above

Answer: C

 

                                                                                                                                                                                        

Ans 6 D

Explanation

  • Natural causes of forest fires in India include lightning strikes and volcanic eruptions.
  • Additionally, the impact of rising temperatures due to global warming is making forests more susceptible to fires.
  • The leading causes of forest fires in India include smoking, unattended campfires, burning debris, and the use of fireworks.
  • These anthropogenic activities often result in wildfires due to negligence and the improper disposal of combustible materials.
  • Hence correct answer is option D

 

 

 

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top