TGPSC Current Affairs – (24-06-2025)
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News at a Glance |
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Telangana: GI application filed for Balanagar Custard Apple |
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Telangana’s VeriFast app sets national benchmark in passport verification |
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International Relations: Iran-Israel Ceasefire and Tehran’s Calculated Strike on US Base |
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Economy: Dairy, agriculture impede India-U.S. bilateral trade deal |
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South Asia remains one of the least economically integrated regions in the world |
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Environment and Ecology: Asia is warming at twice the global average: WMO report |
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Implications of Thirst waves on Indian Agriculture and Water Security |
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New species of gecko endemic to Western Ghats discovered in Coonoor |
GI application filed for Balanagar Custard Apple
Source: The Hindu
TGPSC Syllabus Relevance: Science and Technology
Context: Balanagar Custard Apple
Why in News
The Balanagar Custard Apple has been proposed for a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for its unique flavour and nutrient profile shaped by rain-fed, rocky terrain cultivation.
Background
- The Balanagar Custard Apple, a unique wild variety of custard apple grown in parts of Telangana, has been officially proposed for a Geographical Indications (GI) tag, with application number 1569 filed in June 2025.
- The move aims to protect and promote this indigenous fruit variety by acknowledging its distinctive characteristics and promoting it in domestic and international markets.
Geographical Coverage and Origin
- The Balanagar Custard Apple is native to three districts in Telangana:
- Mahbubnagar: 5 mandals
- Rangareddy: 3 mandals
- Vikarabad: 3 mandals
- The fruit grows wild, primarily in rain-fed, rocky terrains without the support of irrigation or chemical fertilizers.
Unique Features of Balanagar Custard Apple
1. Distinct Nutrient Profile
- As per research conducted by Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University, the rocky soil and terrain-specific weathering in this region impart a unique micro and macro nutrient composition to the fruit.
2. Cultivation Conditions
- The fruit is non-commercially cultivated in non-irrigated, natural settings.
- According to horticulture scientist Saidaiah Pidigam, irrigation and the use of fertilizers diminish the natural flavour, making the Balanagar variety superior in taste.
3. Agro-Morphological Traits
- Scientific documentation has highlighted the distinct agro-morphological characteristics (such as shape, colour, and texture) of this variety compared to other custard apples.
- Its robust flavour profile, resistance to pests in natural conditions, and low-input farming compatibility are seen as key attributes.
GI Application and Stakeholders
- The application was filed by Subhajit Saha, a GI practitioner from Resolute4IP.
- Filed on behalf of:
- Pomal Farmer Producer Company Limited
- Balanagar Farmer Producer Company Limited
- The Primary Agricultural Cooperative Society
- The initiative is financially supported by NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development).
Significance of GI Tag
1. Legal Protection and Branding
- The GI tag would provide legal protection against unauthorized use of the name “Balanagar Custard Apple”.
- It would also strengthen brand identity by linking the fruit with its geographical origin.
2. Market Access
- A GI tag will help access premium domestic and international markets where consumers value origin-based and chemical-free produce.
- It can improve the livelihoods of local farmers by fetching higher prices.
3. Conservation and Rural Economy
- It encourages the conservation of traditional, climate-resilient crops.
- Promotes sustainable agricultural practices in rain-fed regions, helping improve rural income without ecological degradation.
Way Forward
- Awareness and Training for farmers on post-harvest processing, branding, and GI compliance.
- Marketing support from state and central agencies to link the produce with food processing industries and export chains.
- Establishing farmer-producer cooperatives for quality control, certification, and branding.
Conclusion
- The GI application of the Balanagar Custard Apple represents more than a legal milestone — it is a step toward sustainable agriculture, farmer empowerment, and the promotion of indigenous biodiversity.
- With support from institutions like NABARD and scientific backing from horticultural universities, this initiative can transform a wild fruit into a symbol of Telangana’s agro-heritage and a contributor to the state’s rural economy.
CARE MCQ |
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Q1. With reference to the Balanagar Custard Apple, consider the following statements:
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only |
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Answer 1- A
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Telangana’s VeriFast app sets national benchmark in passport verification
Source: The Hindu
TGPSC Syllabus Relevance: Governance
Context: VeriFast App
Why in News
Telangana Police topped India in passport verification efficiency due to their digital platform VeriFast, which enables fast, transparent, and fraud-resistant processing.
Background
- In a major recognition of efficient digital governance and public service innovation, Telangana Police has secured the top rank among all Indian States in passport verification efficiency, owing to the successful implementation of its indigenous digital platform VeriFast.
- This accolade comes ahead of Passport Seva Divas (June 24, 2025), during which Director General of Intelligence B. Shivadhar Reddy will be conferred the Certificate of Excellence by the Minister of External Affairs in New Delhi.
Key Highlights of the Achievement:
- Top National Rank in Efficiency
Telangana Police has consistently demonstrated the fastest average turnaround time (TAT) in India for passport verification, often completing cases within three working days, well ahead of national requirements. - High Volume, High Performance
The State handles over 2,000 verifications daily, with more than 8 lakh applications processed annually. This remarkable throughput is maintained with over 95% applicant satisfaction, showcasing both scale and quality.
VeriFast Platform: A Technological Breakthrough in Public Service
- Purpose-built for Passport Verification
VeriFast was designed to streamline and digitize the passport verification process, ensuring transparency, accountability, and reduced human delay. - Multi-Platform Compatibility
The application functions seamlessly across Android, iOS, Windows, and Linux, thereby eliminating dependence on expensive or specialized hardware. - Real-Time Communication and Transparency
Applicants receive real-time SMS alerts at every stage, enhancing trust and transparency. This system has been pivotal in achieving high user satisfaction levels. - Dynamic Reassignment System
The platform enables dynamic workload redistribution, allowing police stations to balance verifications efficiently and maintain zero backlog in most cases.
Integration with State Intelligence & Crime Prevention
- Fraud Detection and Prevention
VeriFast is integrated with the State’s intelligence and criminal databases, enabling field officers to detect fraudulent or suspicious applications early in the process. - Tiered Verification Workflow
The system follows a structured three-tier verification process:- Field Verification Officer (FVO)
- Inspector/Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP)
- Passport Verification Cell (PVC)
This hierarchy ensures accurate, accountable, and speedy verification, with proper checks at every level.
- Data Analytics and Crime Analysis
VeriFast incorporates a data analytics module that assists police in:- Monitoring daily trends in verification
- Identifying hotspots of suspicious activity
- Tracing patterns linked to illegal emigration, fake identity submissions, and document rackets
Upcoming Features and Improvements
- Slot Booking for Applicants
A future upgrade will allow citizens to book passport verification slots online, reducing uncertainty and making the process more convenient and applicant-friendly. - Enhanced Mobility and Surveillance
Continued integration with mobile policing and surveillance networks is expected to enhance on-ground verification speed and security.
Significance of Telangana’s Achievement:
- Model for Other States – Telangana’s VeriFast platform sets a benchmark for digital transformation in law enforcement and citizen services.
- Good Governance Example – It aligns with the goals of Digital India and Minimum Government, Maximum Governance.
- Citizen-Centric Policing – Reflects a shift towards proactive, technology-driven, and people-first policing in the country.
Conclusion:
- The success of VeriFast and the national recognition accorded to the Telangana Police underline the transformative potential of technology in public service delivery.
- By combining digital tools with administrative efficiency and institutional accountability, Telangana has not only optimized passport verification but also contributed to a safer, more transparent system of citizen identification and mobility.
CARE MCQ |
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Q2. With reference to VeriFast, the digital platform developed by Telangana Police, consider the following statements:
Which of the statements given above are correct? A. 1, 3 and 4 only |
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Answer 2- A
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Iran-Israel Ceasefire and Tehran’s Calculated Strike on US Base
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Relevance: GS2 International Relations
Context: Iran-Israel Ceasefire
Why in News
The recent U.S. military strikes on Iranian nuclear sites have raised critical questions about international law, nuclear non-proliferation, and regional stability.
Introduction
- Recently, Iran launched a missile strike on the US Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, a day after US airstrikes targeted Iran’s nuclear sites in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.
- The Iranian response was telegraphed in advance to the US and Qatar and caused no casualties, after which former US President Donald Trump announced a complete Iran-Israel ceasefire.
Why Iran Gave Advance Notice:
Iran’s early notification to the US and Qatar signals a carefully calculated military and diplomatic posture, driven by:
1. Avoiding Direct War with the US
- Iran’s retaliation was meant to uphold credibility after warning the US not to get involved in Israel-Iran hostilities.
- Yet, Iran avoided escalation by giving advance notice, signaling that it did not seek war with the US, only a symbolic demonstration of capability and resolve.
2. Preserving Diplomatic Channels
- Iran’s move was designed to retain space for negotiations, especially given reports that the US had informed Tehran in advance of its strikes and conveyed they were “one-off” operations.
- Trump’s public appreciation for Iran’s restraint shows both sides are attempting to cool tensions through indirect diplomacy.
3. Qatar as a Controlled Target
- Qatar, due to its good relations with Iran and mediator role in regional diplomacy, was seen as a low-risk theatre for symbolic retaliation.
- Iran’s choice to strike Al-Udeid, the heart of CENTCOM operations, while ensuring no casualties, reflects strategic signaling, not destruction.
4. Calibrated Messaging to Allies and Adversaries
- By ensuring minimal damage and no casualties, Iran projected a message of control, capability, and calculated strength to:
- Domestic audiences demanding retaliation.
- International actors urging de-escalation.
- Regional rivals monitoring Iran’s thresholds.
US and Israeli Military Action: Aims and Impact
1. American Strike Objectives
- US strikes were reportedly aimed at Iran’s nuclear enrichment infrastructure.
- However, Iran preemptively removed enriched uranium stockpiles from sites, preserving its nuclear capacity for future negotiations.
2. Israeli Military Goals
- Israel’s strikes over 11 days aimed at IRGC headquarters, homeland air defences, and top Iranian leadership.
- Despite the ceasefire, Iran’s ability to launch retaliatory missile attacks using new solid-fuel Kheybar Shekan missiles has demonstrated resilience, ensuring symbolic parity.
Iran’s Proxies: Why They Stayed Silent
Notably, Iran refrained from activating its regional proxy network, including:
- Houthis (Yemen): Though they declared an end to their ceasefire with the US, they did not resume attacks on US shipping.
- Hezbollah (Lebanon): After losing leader Hassan Nasrallah in 2024, the group under Naim Qassem adopted strategic ambiguity, choosing not to escalate.
- Hashd al-Shaabi (Iraq): Despite previous Iranian retaliations through them, Tehran did not use these militias, respecting Iraq’s effort to avoid becoming a battleground.
Strategic Rationale: Avoiding proxy attacks gave Tehran greater control and reduced the risk of unintended escalation or widening the conflict beyond manageable limits.
What Did Not Happen: Strategic Self-Restraint
1. No Blockade of the Strait of Hormuz
- Despite threats, Iran did not attempt to close the strait, vital for global oil supply and Iran’s own economy.
2. No Direct Civilian Targeting
- The attacks were highly selective, military-only targets, highlighting restraint under pressure.
Trump’s Ceasefire Announcement: A Turning Point?
Trump posted that both Iran and Israel had agreed to a “Complete and Total Ceasefire”, suggesting:
- A coordinated final round of military action by both parties.
- Strong backchannel diplomacy, possibly involving Qatar, Oman, or European actors.
- US intent to disengage from protracted regional conflict, consistent with Trump-era military drawdowns.
Implications for the Region
1. Iranian Calculus: Economic Constraints
- With crippling inflation, sanctions, and social unrest, Iran seeks to recoup losses while appearing strong.
- Negotiation is not only preferable—it is necessary for Tehran’s survival.
2. Arab States and Nuclear Anxiety
- The aggression against Iran may further fuel Arab nuclear ambitions:
- UAE already operationalized a nuclear power plant.
- Saudi Arabia is fast-tracking its nuclear plans.
- A regional nuclear arms race may be a long-term consequence.
3. Israel’s Strategic Objectives
- Whether Israel stops after the ceasefire or continues covert campaigns remains to be seen.
- Iran’s regime survival, not just nuclear capability, has been targeted.
Implications for India
- Energy Security: The Strait of Hormuz handles ~40% of India’s oil imports; stability is vital.
- Indian Diaspora in Gulf: Safety of 8+ million Indian nationals in West Asia is a core concern.
- Strategic Autonomy: India must balance relations with Iran, Israel, US, and Gulf powers.
- Diplomatic Leverage: India’s role as a neutral, credible voice in the region gains importance.
Conclusion:
- Iran’s missile strike on the US base in Qatar, with prior warning and no casualties, represents a masterclass in symbolic warfare—projecting strength while preserving space for negotiation.
- The broader conflict remains unresolved, but ceasefire diplomacy, once again, proves critical in a volatile region shaped by historical grievances, nuclear ambitions, and external power plays.
CARE MCQ |
UPSC PYQ |
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Q3. Match the following Iranian proxy groups with their primary regions of operation:
Options: |
Q. Very recently, in which of the following countries have lakhs of people either suffered from severe famine/acute malnutrition or died due to starvation caused by war/ethnic conflicts? (2018) (a) Angola and Zambia Ans: (d) |
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Answer 3- A Explanation
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Dairy, agriculture impede India-U.S. bilateral trade deal
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS-3 Economy
Context: India-U.S. Trade Talks
Why in News
India-U.S. trade talks face hurdles in agriculture and dairy sectors ahead of the July 9 tariff deadline, while tensions in West Asia raise concerns over trade routes.
Introduction
- As the July 9 deadline approaches for the reimposition of reciprocal tariffs by the United States, trade negotiations between India and the U.S. remain in a delicate stage.
- While there is mutual interest in finalising a bilateral trade agreement, agriculture and dairy sectors continue to be sticking points, highlighting the sensitivity of these segments within India’s domestic economy.
Background: Reciprocal Tariffs and Negotiations
India and the U.S. have long had trade frictions, especially following the U.S. withdrawal of India’s GSP (Generalized System of Preferences) status in 2019. In retaliation, India imposed reciprocal tariffs on certain American goods.
- The tariffs were partially suspended as both countries began negotiating a “mini trade deal”, which would be a precursor to a larger Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA).
- However, if an agreement is not reached by July 9, 2025, the U.S. plans to reimpose tariffs, rolling them back to the levels in place on April 2, potentially affecting both Indian exports and imports.
Sticking Points: Agriculture and Dairy
According to senior sources:
- Agriculture and dairy have emerged as primary obstacles.
- These are politically and economically sensitive sectors for India, with millions dependent on them for livelihood.
- Especially in the dairy sector, where India protects small and marginal producers, opening up to U.S. dairy imports raises concerns about market disruption and food safety standards (e.g., hormones in U.S. milk).
Despite the government’s keenness to conclude a deal, officials clarified that India is not desperate to sign before July 9. Missing the deadline would simply mean a return to earlier tariff levels, not a breakdown of the entire process.
India’s Strategic Position
Indian negotiators believe that:
- India is currently the only country engaged in such elaborate trade talks with the U.S.
- A delay does not mean a collapse; rather, it reflects India’s strategic approach in ensuring domestic interests are safeguarded.
- A delegation will visit the U.S. for the next round of in-person talks to discuss both the mini deal and the first tranche of the BTA, which is targeted for Fall 2025.
Geopolitical Backdrop:
Parallel to trade negotiations, geopolitical developments in West Asia are being closely monitored by the Indian government:
- Iran recently attacked U.S. bases in Syria, escalating tensions in the region.
- Given that a significant portion of India’s energy and trade flows through the Strait of Hormuz, the government is increasing vigilance.
- According to a senior official, “There are alternative routes, but they are more expensive and time-consuming.”
This could impact:
- Shipping costs, especially crude oil and petrochemicals.
- Insurance premiums for cargo vessels operating in conflict-prone waters.
- India’s strategic energy reserves and the overall inflationary impact on the economy.
Way Forward
- Balanced Trade Negotiations: India must continue to negotiate from a position of strength, ensuring that any trade liberalisation aligns with domestic agricultural interests and employment concerns.
- Strategic Diversification: In light of regional instability, India needs to strengthen alternative energy supply routes and enhance regional trade corridors (e.g., Chabahar port, INSTC).
- Domestic Competitiveness: To make gains from global trade, India must invest in enhancing the competitiveness of sectors like dairy and agriculture through infrastructure, technology, and quality standards.
- Multilateral Engagement: As global geopolitics shift, India should maintain its voice in multilateral trade forums (WTO, IPEF, QUAD) to build strategic alliances and reduce over-dependence on single-country trade negotiations.
Conclusion
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- While the tariff deadline looms, India’s cautious approach reflects a maturing trade strategy that aims to balance economic opportunity with domestic protection.
- Simultaneously, the geopolitical flare-up in West Asia adds urgency to India’s energy security and trade route resilience.
- As the world enters a complex phase of trade diplomacy and conflict-driven logistics challenges, India’s emphasis on pragmatism, preparedness, and strategic patience is key to its long-term national interest.
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CARE MCQ |
UPSC PYQ |
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Q4. With reference to recent India–United States trade negotiations, consider the following statements:
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only |
Q. Consider the following countries: (2018)
Which of the above are among the ‘free-trade partners’ of ASEAN? (a) 1, 2, 4 and 5 (b) 3, 4, 5 and 6 (c) 1, 3, 4 and 5 (d) 2, 3, 4 and 6 Ans: (c) |
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Answer 4- B Explanation
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South Asia remains one of the least economically integrated regions in the world
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3 Economy
Context: Regional Cooperation for Security and Prosperity in South Asia
Why in News
South Asia remains one of the least economically integrated regions in the world due to high intra-regional trade costs, political disputes, and underutilization of agreements like SAFTA.
Introduction
- In 2025, two major developments — the reciprocal tariffs imposed by the U.S. and the terror attack in Pahalgam — brought into sharp focus the interdependence of economic and national security in India and the broader South Asian region.
- Although these events appear unrelated, they underscore a shared challenge: the lack of effective regional cooperation.
- For South Asia to achieve long-term stability and prosperity, an integrated approach that considers both economic and security dimensions is essential.
Interdependence of Economic and National Security
Security and economic growth are often treated as separate domains, yet they are deeply interconnected:
- Economic insecurity breeds social unrest, which can turn into violent movements or radicalization.
- Security threats, including terrorism and border conflicts, in turn, disrupt trade, deter investment, and strain economic relations.
- A stable and prosperous region reduces the recruitment base for extremist groups and improves the capacity for joint counter-terrorism efforts.
Low Intra-Regional Trade: A Symptom of Deep Divides
South Asia is among the least economically integrated regions globally:
- Intra-regional trade in SAFTA accounts for only 5–7% of the region’s total trade, compared to:
- 45% in EU
- 22% in ASEAN
- 25% in NAFTA
- Current SAARC trade stands at only $23 billion, far below the estimated $67 billion, with UNESCAP estimating $172 billion potential in 2020.
This gap reflects a chronic underutilization of trade potential due to:
- Political hostilities
- Cross-border terrorism
- Infrastructure bottlenecks
- High trade costs
Trade Costs: A Regional Disadvantage
Despite geographic proximity, trade within South Asia is more expensive than with distant regions:
- Intra-SAARC trade costs: 114% of the value of goods
- India–Pakistan trade costs: 20% higher than India–Brazil, despite being neighbours
- Bilateral trade cost with the U.S.: 109%
- ASEAN intraregional trade costs: 76%, creating strong incentives for interdependence
These high costs result from:
- Cumbersome customs procedures
- Non-tariff barriers
- Poor connectivity
- Political mistrust
Declining Trade Performance and Its Implications
- India–Pakistan trade fell from $2.41 billion in 2018 to $1.2 billion in 2024
- Pakistan’s exports to India dropped drastically from $547.5 million (2019) to just $480,000 (2024)
- Trade-to-GDP ratio for South Asia fell from 47.3% in 2022 to 42.94% in 2024
- Trade deficit widened from $204.1 billion (2015) to $339 billion (2022)
This shows that regional tensions and poor policy implementation not only hurt diplomacy but reduce innovation, production efficiency, and people’s welfare.
SAFTA: Missed Opportunity
While SAFTA was envisioned as a mechanism to foster regional trade and cooperation, its implementation has been weak:
- Most SAARC members continue to prioritize bilateral disputes over collective goals.
- Terrorism, border conflicts, and minority issues remain barriers to trust-building.
- There has been limited progress on harmonizing trade procedures and reducing tariffs.
Untapped Potential in Services and Investment
Beyond goods trade:
- Trade in services (education, health, IT, tourism) has huge potential
- Investment cooperation remains minimal despite strong complementarities
- Labour mobility, if managed, could improve regional income distribution
Strategic Way Forward
To unlock the full potential of South Asia, a multi-pronged regional approach is needed:
1. Political Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs)
- Resumption of SAARC summits
- Creation of a SAARC Conflict Resolution Mechanism
- Promote track-two diplomacy and civil society dialogue
2. Infrastructure and Connectivity
- Implement projects like the BBIN Motor Vehicle Agreement
- Expand transboundary energy grids
- Develop multimodal logistics and border SEZs
3. Trade Facilitation and Harmonization
- Adopt mutual recognition agreements
- Digitize customs and logistics platforms
- Reduce non-tariff barriers and streamline dispute resolution
4. Counterterrorism and Intelligence Cooperation
- Establish a SAARC Terrorism Monitoring Centre
- Share real-time intelligence on cross-border threats
- Delink trade from terror narratives by institutionalizing economic dialogue
5. India’s Leadership Role
- As the region’s largest economy, India can:
- Lead in regional digital payment platforms
- Offer preferential market access to smaller neighbours
- Invest in capacity-building for governance and regulation
Conclusion
- South Asia stands at a crossroads. Its potential as an economic powerhouse is undeniable, but mutual distrust, unresolved conflicts, and lack of strategic vision keep the region shackled.
- A holistic framework that links security imperatives with economic cooperation is essential. India, given its size and strategic location, must lead this transformation toward a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated South Asia.
CARE MCQ |
UPSC PYQ |
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Q5. With reference to intra-regional trade in South Asia, consider the following statements:
Which of the statements given above are correct? A. 1 and 3 only |
Q. The Global Infrastructure Facility is a/an (2017) (a) ASEAN initiative to upgrade infrastructure in Asia and financed by credit from the Asian Development Bank. (b) World Bank collaboration that facilitates the preparation and structuring of complex infrastructure Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to enable mobilization of private sector and institutional investor capital. (c) Collaboration among the major banks of the world working with the OECD and focused on expanding the set of infrastructure projects that have the potential to mobilize private investment. (d) UNCTAD funded initiative that seeks to finance and facilitate infrastructure development in the world. Ans: (b) |
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Answer 5- B Explanation
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Asia is warming at twice the global average: WMO report
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3 Environment and Ecology
Context: State of the Climate in Asia 2024
Why in News?
The WMO’s State of the Climate in Asia 2024 report confirms 2024 as the warmest year on record in Asia, highlighting extreme heatwaves, glacier loss, marine heatwaves, and intensified weather disasters.
Introduction
- The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has declared 2024 as the warmest year on record in Asia, marked by extreme weather events, prolonged heatwaves, marine heatwaves, glacier mass loss, and unprecedented rainfall.
- The State of the Climate in Asia 2024 report offers crucial insights into how climate change is increasingly affecting natural systems, human life, and regional economies in Asia.
Key Climate Indicators in Asia – 2024
1. Surface Temperature
- Global mean temperature for 2024 was the highest since 1850, surpassing the previous record of 1.45 °C in 2023.
- All six global datasets used by the WMO confirmed 2024 as the warmest year globally.
- From 2015 to 2024, every year ranked among the 10 warmest years.
- The warming trend (1991–2024) was almost double that of 1961–1990.
2. Prolonged Heatwaves
- East Asia experienced heatwaves from April to November 2024.
- Japan, Republic of Korea, and China broke monthly average temperature records repeatedly.
- India experienced severe heatwaves, resulting in over 450 deaths.
- Russia’s northwest saw a two-week heatwave with temperature anomalies of +7°C to +10°C.
- Makkah region (Saudi Arabia) recorded 49°C in June.
- Myanmar recorded its highest temperature ever, 48.2°C on April 28, 2024.
3. Sea Surface Temperatures and Marine Heatwaves
- Sea surface temperatures (SST) were highest on record.
- The rate of sea surface warming in Asia was nearly double the global average.
- Marine heatwaves of strong to extreme intensity affected most Asian oceans since records began in 1993, especially:
- Northern Indian Ocean
- Yellow Sea
- East China Sea
- Waters around Japan
4. Sea Level Rise
- Sea level rise on both Pacific and Indian Ocean sides of Asia exceeded the global average, posing serious risks to low-lying coastal areas.
5. Glacier Mass Loss
- Out of 24 monitored glaciers in the central Himalayas and Tian Shan, 23 lost mass in 2024.
- Consequences:
- Increased glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs)
- Higher frequency of landslides
- Threats to long-term water security
Major Extreme Weather Events in Asia – 2024
1. Heavy Rainfall and Flooding
- UAE: 259.5 mm rainfall in 24 hrs (most extreme since 1949).
- Kerala (Wayanad): Over 500 mm rainfall in 48 hrs (July 30), caused >350 deaths.
- Nepal (September): Record-breaking rain and floods killed 246 people, losses >NPR 12.85 billion.
- Sri Lanka (December): Cyclonic rains caused 18 deaths, affected 4.5 lakh people.
2. Cyclones
- Total cyclones in 2024: 4
- Bay of Bengal: Remal, Dana, Fengal
- Arabian Sea: Asna (rare – only 3rd instance since 1891)
- Cyclone Remal:
- Made landfall near Mongla & Khepupara (Bangladesh/West Bengal) on May 26.
- Wind speed: 111 km/h, storm surge of 2.5 meters caused widespread flooding.
- Cyclone Fengal: Made landfall in India after skirting Sri Lanka in late November.
- Cyclone Asna: Developed in the Arabian Sea in August. Caused 3–5 metre waves in Oman.
3. Lightning
- India lost about 1,300 lives due to lightning.
- A major lightning event on July 10 killed 72 people across Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Jharkhand.
4. Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF)
- On August 16, a GLOF in Nepal’s Koshi region triggered:
- Flash floods and mudslides.
- Displacement of over 130 people by August 19.
- Destruction of homes, schools, health centers in Thame village.
5. Drought
- China:
- Affected 4.8 million people
- Damaged 335,200 hectares of crops
- Direct losses worth CNY 2.89 billion
Impacts on Lives and Livelihoods
- Increased frequency and intensity of climate disasters directly affected millions of people, especially in:
- Agriculture: Crop failures due to heat/drought.
- Infrastructure: Destruction due to floods and landslides.
- Health: Heat-related deaths and disease outbreaks.
- Economic losses: In billions of USD due to loss of agricultural produce, damaged infrastructure, and displacement.
Institutional Response and Way Forward
Role of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs)
- Real-time data and early warnings are vital for disaster risk reduction.
- Celeste Saulo, WMO Secretary-General:
“Extreme weather is already exacting an unacceptably high toll. The work of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services and their partners is more important than ever to save lives and livelihoods.”
Policy Imperatives
- Strengthen climate adaptation measures through:
- Climate-resilient infrastructure
- Crop insurance and early warning systems
- Water resource management
- Regional cooperation for climate resilience and technology transfer
- Investment in renewable energy and decarbonization
Conclusion
- The State of the Climate in Asia 2024 report is a stark warning about the accelerating pace of climate change and its multifaceted impact on Asia.
- With record temperatures, widespread weather extremes, and rising sea levels, urgent policy action and international cooperation are essential.
- Asia, home to the majority of the world’s population, must prioritize climate resilience to secure a sustainable and livable future.
CARE MCQ |
UPSC PYQ |
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Q6. With reference to the State of the Climate in Asia 2024 report by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), consider the following statements:
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? |
Q. “Momentum for Change: Climate Neutral Now” is an initiative launched by (2018) (a) The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Ans: (c) |
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Answer – 6 – A Explanation –
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Implications of Thirstwaves on Indian Agriculture and Water Security
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3 Environment and Ecology
Context: About Thirst waves
Why in News?
The study introduces the term “thirst waves” to describe prolonged periods of extreme atmospheric evaporative demand.
Introduction
- Climate change is not only intensifying traditional extremes like droughts and heatwaves but also giving rise to new and less-understood climatic stressors.
- One such phenomenon — “Thirstwaves” — has recently been conceptualized by researchers M.S. Kukal and M. Hobbins in a March 2025 paper published in Earth’s Future.
- Thirstwaves are prolonged periods of extreme atmospheric evaporative demand (EED) that significantly impact land moisture, vegetation, and agriculture.
- This novel concept provides critical insights into how climate change is silently reshaping hydrological cycles, particularly during the crop-growing season.
What is a Thirstwave?
- Definition: A thirstwave refers to three or more consecutive days of high evaporative demand, which signifies how much moisture the atmosphere demands from the land.
- Origin of the Term: Coined by Meetpal Kukal (University of Idaho) and Mike Hobbins (University of Colorado/NOAA), it is distinct from heatwaves and focuses on hydro-climatic stress.
“Not only have thirstwaves increased in severity, but the likelihood of no thirstwaves occurring during the growing season has significantly decreased.” — Kukal & Hobbins, Earth’s Future, 2025.
Mechanism Behind Thirstwaves
1. Evaporative Demand
- A measure of the atmosphere’s “thirst” — how much water it wants to pull from land and plants.
- Driven by:
- Temperature: Warmer air can hold more moisture.
- Humidity: Drier air increases moisture draw.
- Wind speed: Accelerates evaporation.
- Solar radiation: Warms surfaces, boosting water loss.
2. Short-Crop Evapotranspiration (ET₀)
- Used to standardize evaporative demand.
- Based on a theoretical grass crop (12 cm height), continuously supplied with water.
- Assumes vegetation properties are constant, isolating the effect of weather conditions.
3. Difference from Heatwaves
|
Aspect |
Heatwave |
Thirstwave |
|
Based on |
High air temperature |
High evaporative demand (temp + humidity + wind + radiation) |
|
Focus |
Human & animal health |
Water loss from land and vegetation |
|
Visibility |
Media-covered, short-term disaster |
Silent, creeping stressor |
|
Impact |
Heatstroke, mortality |
Crop stress, irrigation demand, water resource depletion |
Implications for Agriculture
- Water Stress on Crops: Even irrigated fields suffer if atmospheric demand exceeds capacity.
- Altered Irrigation Scheduling: Farmers need to adjust not just by soil moisture but by real-time atmospheric demand.
- Reduced Yield Potential: Prolonged thirstwaves can dry out plants, reduce photosynthesis, and impair growth.
- High-Risk Crops: Water-intensive crops like rice, sugarcane, and wheat are particularly vulnerable.
The Indian Scenario
1. Historical Context
- A 1997 study by Chattopadhyay and Hulme observed a decline in potential evapotranspiration (PET) in India (1960s–1990s), despite warming.
- Reason: Increased humidity had offset temperature-driven increases in EED.
- However, future warming, as per model simulations, will likely override humidity and lead to higher evaporative demand.
2. Recent Trends
- A 2022 study by IIT Roorkee and NIH observed:
- Increase in actual evapotranspiration in Northern India, Western and Eastern Himalayas.
- May be due to agricultural expansion or increased vegetation, or both.
3. Gaps and Research Needs
- No structured tracking or reporting of extreme thirstwave events in India.
- Lack of crop sensitivity data to EED.
- Need for regional modeling and early warning systems.
Global South: Vulnerability and Research Opportunities
- Developing countries, including India, are especially vulnerable due to:
- High dependence on rainfed agriculture.
- Weak institutional and climate adaptation capacity.
- Socioeconomic fragility in rural communities.
- Researcher Kukal is now working with Indian scholars (e.g., PhD student Shailza Sharma from NIT Jalandhar) to study thirstwaves in South Asia, with support from the Water Advanced Research and Innovation Program.
- Preliminary insights reveal that regions not typically classified as “high-risk” may suffer severe thirstwaves — calling for a rethink of regional climate preparedness strategies.
Policy Implications for India
1. Agricultural Planning
- Include evaporative demand trends in:
- Crop advisories (via KVKs, Agromet units)
- Irrigation scheduling
- PMKSY and Watershed Management Programs
2. Disaster Management
- Recognize thirstwaves as “hydro-climatic extremes” in national disaster frameworks.
- Develop a Thirstwave Early Warning System (TEWS).
3. Research and Data Infrastructure
- Set up EED monitoring stations via IMD.
- Commission ICAR and IITs to study crop-specific vulnerability to EED.
- Promote AI and satellite-based remote sensing for regional EED mapping.
4. Farmer Capacity Building
- Train farmers in:
- Understanding weather-based irrigation
- Choosing drought-tolerant crop varieties
- Soil moisture conservation techniques (e.g., mulching, zero tillage)
5. Climate Budgeting and Prioritization
- Use thirstwave data to:
- Reassess climate fund allocations.
- Direct resources to emerging stress zones, not just historically drought-prone regions.
Conclusion
- The concept of thirstwaves adds a critical new dimension to understanding the invisible but severe effects of climate change on agriculture, water security, and ecological stability.
- As the world gets warmer, it is not just how hot it becomes — but how thirsty the air becomes — that will determine the future of farming and food systems.
CARE MCQ |
UPSC PYQ |
|
Q7. With reference to “Thirstwaves”, recently seen in climate science literature, consider the following statements:
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 2 only |
Q. What are the possible limitations of India in mitigating global warming at present and in the immediate future? (2010)
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only Ans: (a) |
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Answer – 7 – A Explanation –
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New species of gecko endemic to Western Ghats discovered in Coonoor
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3 Environment and Ecology
Context: Dravidogecko coonoor
Why in News
A new species of gecko named Dravidogecko coonoor, endemic to Coonoor in the Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, has been discovered, raising the number of Dravidogecko species in the Western Ghats to nine.
Introduction
- A new species of gecko has been discovered in the Upper Nilgiris of Tamil Nadu, highlighting the rich but fragile biodiversity of the Western Ghats.
- The species, named Dravidogecko coonoor, is believed to be endemic to the Coonoor Hills, and the discovery was recently published in the international journal Bionomina.
Scientific Classification & Taxonomy
- Genus: Dravidogecko
- New Species: Dravidogecko coonoor
- Discovered by: A. Abinesh, R.S. Naveen, A.N. Srikanthan, S. Babu, and S.R. Ganesh
- Published in: Bionomina
- Title of Study: “Code-compliant description of a recently identified distinct Dravidogecko species from Coonoor, Western Ghats, India”
Geographical Distribution
- The species is currently known only from Coonoor, a hill station in the Upper Nilgiris of Tamil Nadu.
- This region lies within the Western Ghats, one of the world’s eight “hottest hotspots” of biological diversity.
- The habitat consists of a matrix of montane (shola) forests, monoculture plantations, and urban human settlements.
Distinguishing Features and Habitat
- The gecko was originally believed to be Hemidactylus anamallensis (now reclassified as Dravidogecko anamallensis).
- Further field surveys and morphological analysis revealed unique characteristics, leading to its classification as a distinct species.
- It has been observed in both natural and anthropogenic habitats, such as:
- Tree bark and crevices
- Plant branches
- Building walls
- This adaptability to urban landscapes may offer some resilience, but also exposes it to human threats.
Significance of Discovery
- With this discovery, the total number of known Dravidogecko species in the Western Ghats has increased to nine.
- The genus Dravidogecko is endemic to the high-elevation areas of the Western Ghats, underscoring the region’s ecological uniqueness.
Conservation Concerns
- Endemism: The gecko is known only from a single location, making it vulnerable to local threats.
- Outside Protected Areas: Its known population lies entirely outside the official Protected Area Network, like national parks or wildlife sanctuaries.
- Human Pressures: Urban expansion, habitat fragmentation, and plantation agriculture in Coonoor are significant threats.
- Climate Change: Being a high-elevation species, it may be especially sensitive to microclimatic shifts and rising temperatures.
- The authors have warned that Dravidogecko coonoor could be a “potentially threatened species”, urging urgent conservation assessments.
Broader Implications
- Biodiversity in Anthropogenic Landscapes: The presence of the gecko in semi-urban and disturbed habitats shows the importance of human-modified landscapes in biodiversity conservation.
- Western Ghats Conservation: Highlights the need to map and monitor biodiversity beyond protected areas, especially in ecologically fragile hill stations like Coonoor.
- Role of Taxonomy and Field Research: Emphasizes the importance of systematic biodiversity assessments and species documentation for conservation planning.
Way Forward
- IUCN Red List Assessment: Immediate steps should be taken to evaluate the species’ risk status under IUCN criteria.
- Inclusion in Conservation Planning: Local government and forest departments should consider buffer zones or community conservation areas around known habitats.
- Public Awareness: Local community involvement and awareness can help reduce negative impacts on habitat.
- Long-Term Monitoring: Establish a population monitoring program to study ecology, behavior, and threats.
- Research Support: Encourage more taxonomic studies and faunal surveys in the Nilgiris and other hill stations.
Conclusion
- The discovery of Dravidogecko coonoor is a reminder of the hidden diversity within India’s hill ecosystems.
- It also underscores the urgent need for integrating species-level research with landscape-level conservation, especially in non-protected, human-dominated areas.
CARE MCQ |
UPSC PYQ |
|
Q8. With reference to the recently discovered species Dravidogecko coonoor, consider the following statements:
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only |
Q. The word ‘Denisovan’ is sometimes mentioned in media in reference to (2019)
Answer: (b)
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Answer – 8 – B Explanation –
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