UKPSC Monthly Current Affairs: May 2024 | Monthly Current Affairs UKPSC - UKPSC (Uttarakhand) PDF Download

Uttarakhand's Valley of Flowers National Park

Introduction

• The Valley of Flowers trek in Uttarakhand is set to open on June 1, 2024. This stunning location is part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, which has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005.
• The park features over 300 species of flowers native to the Himalayas, making it a vibrant and colorful destination during the monsoon season, from June to November.

Early Spring in the Valley

• As spring begins in the Valley of Flowers, the landscape comes to life with the blooming of various plants such as potentilla, wild rose, and primrose, signaling the melting of snow and the arrival of warmer weather.

Diverse Flora

• The park is home to a wide variety of floral species, with over 300 different types recorded. Some of the notable flowers include anemones, geraniums, blue poppies, and bluebells, creating a breathtaking spectacle for visitors.

Rare Fauna

• In addition to its rich plant life, the Valley of Flowers is also home to rare animal species such as the grey langur, flying squirrel, Himalayan weasel, black bear, snow leopard, and Himalayan monal. These animals add to the unique biodiversity of the area.

Biosphere Reserve Concept

• A Biosphere Reserve (BR) is an international designation by UNESCO for areas that represent natural and cultural landscapes over large terrestrial or coastal/marine ecosystems, or a combination of both.
• The aim of Biosphere Reserves is to balance economic and social development with the preservation of nature and cultural values.
• These reserves serve as special environments for both people and nature, demonstrating how human beings and the natural world can coexist while respecting each other's needs.

Decline in Horticulture Yields in Uttarakhand

In 2023, Uttarakhand faced severe extreme weather events, leading to the loss of 44,882 hectares of farmlands. This has resulted in a decline in agricultural opportunities, prompting many residents to migrate from the hills to the plains. Consequently, there is a potential decrease in the area dedicated to horticultural production.

• The period between 2016-17 and 2022-23 witnessed significant changes in fruit production patterns in Uttarakhand, with notable variations across different fruit types.
• Increase in Guava and Gooseberry Cultivation: The rise in guava and gooseberry cultivation suggests a shift towards fruit types that are more aligned with market demand or better suited to local conditions.
• Decrease in Yields: There has been a marked decline in the yields of pear, peach, apricot, plum, walnut, and apple over the past seven years. This decline is significantly attributed to the impact of global warming on Uttarakhand’s horticulture.
• Impact of Extreme Weather: Uttarakhand has been experiencing frequent natural disasters, including heavy rainfall, floods, hailstorms, and landslides. These events have caused substantial destruction of agricultural lands and crops, further exacerbating the decline in horticulture.
• Rising Temperatures: The increasing temperatures in the region are negatively affecting the cultivation of winter fruits, forcing farmers to adapt by switching to tropical fruit options.

Role of Research Institutions

• Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR): ICAR plays a crucial role in coordinating, guiding, and managing research and education in agriculture, including horticulture, fisheries, and animal sciences across India. Established in 1929, ICAR is one of the largest national agricultural systems globally, with numerous institutes and agricultural universities.
• Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI): IARI, as part of ICAR, is involved in research and education in agriculture and related fields. It contributes to understanding the impact of climate variability on agricultural yields and cropping patterns.

Need for Long-term Studies

• There is a pressing need to study the long-term trends in weather variables and their relationship with agricultural yields. Understanding how these trends correlate with changes in crop or cropping patterns is essential for developing effective adaptation strategies.
• Short-term Variability: The short-term variability and trends in temperature are concerning and require close monitoring to mitigate their impact on horticulture and agriculture in Uttarakhand.

Dual-Language Science Books for Students in Uttarakhand

In a pioneering initiative, the Uttarakhand government is set to provide dual-language science books to students starting from the current academic session. This innovative approach aims to enhance learning by offering lessons in both Hindi and English simultaneously.

Key Features of the Dual-Language Books:

• Same Syllabus: Each book follows the same syllabus, ensuring that all students receive the same quality of education regardless of the language they prefer.
• Adjacent Pages: Lessons are presented on adjacent pages in both languages, making it easier for students to understand and compare the content.
• Books for Different Standards: There will be one dual-language book for sciences for sixth to eighth standards, while senior secondary classes will have separate books for physics, chemistry, and biology.

Smart Class Initiative:

• Smart Classes in Schools: 800 selected Uttarakhand government schools will soon be equipped with two smart classes each. These smart classes will be interconnected, providing a seamless learning experience.
• High-Tech Digital Equipment: The schools will be furnished with advanced digital equipment, including large screens, online 3D education modules, high-speed internet services, and various other technical gadgets to facilitate modern learning methods.

Government Initiates Granting of Citizenship Under CAA

Recently, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced the commencement of granting citizenship under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in the states of West Bengal, Haryana, and Uttarakhand.

Citizenship (Amendment) Rules, 2024

• On May 15, the first set of citizenship certificates was handed over to the recipients in New Delhi by the Union Home Secretary. This followed the issuance of the Citizenship Amendment Rules, 2024, approved by the Empowered Committee in Delhi.
• The Citizenship Amendment Rules, 2024, issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs on March 11, 2024, paved the way for implementing the CAA, which was passed by Parliament in 2019.

Eligibility Criteria

• The CAA allows migrants from six minority groups in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh to apply for Indian citizenship with retrospective effect.
• These groups include individuals who faced or feared religious persecution in their home countries.
• To be eligible, migrants must have arrived in India by December 31, 2014.

Changes in Residency Requirements

• The amendment reduces the residency requirement for these migrants from eleven years to five years, facilitating expedited Indian citizenship within six years.

Background of the CAA

• The CAA was enacted to provide a pathway to Indian citizenship for individuals from specific religious minorities who have faced persecution in their home countries.

Recent Developments

• The recent implementation of the CAA marks a significant step in providing relief to persecuted minorities and streamlining the citizenship process for eligible migrants.

Earthquake in Uttarakhand

An earthquake measuring 3.1 on the Richter scale recently occurred in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand. The epicenter was located approximately 5 km beneath the earth's surface. The National Center for Seismology, under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, is responsible for monitoring earthquake activity in India. Uttarakhand is known for its high seismic activity, with most regions falling under Seismic Zones IV and V, indicating a significant risk of earthquakes.

Geographical Context

• The Himalayas, where Uttarakhand is located, are the youngest mountain range in the world, formed about 50 million years ago. The range is still rising at a rate of approximately 5 mm per year due to the ongoing tectonic processes where the Indian plate is being forced beneath the Tibetan plate.

Understanding Earthquakes

• Hypocenter : The point where an earthquake originates below the earth's surface.
• Earthquake Waves :
• Body Waves : Travel through the earth's body.
• P Waves : The fastest waves, arriving first at the surface, similar to sound waves, and can travel through gases, liquids, and solids.
• S Waves : Arriving with a delay, these waves travel only through solids.
• Surface Waves : The last to be recorded on seismographs and are more destructive.
• Love Waves : Move sideways without vertical displacement, faster than Rayleigh waves.
• Rayleigh Waves : Cause ground motion in an elliptical pattern, moving vertically and horizontally in a vertical plane.

Causes of Earthquakes

• Release of energy along a fault or fault zone (a break in the crustal rocks).
• Movement of tectonic plates (the most common cause).
• Volcanic eruptions (stress changes in rock due to the injection or withdrawal of magma).
• Human activities (such as mining or the explosion of chemical or nuclear devices).

Measurement and Distribution of Earthquakes

• Seismometers : Instruments that measure seismic waves.
• Richter Scale : Measures the magnitude of earthquakes (energy released; range: 0-10).
• Mercalli Scale : Measures the intensity of earthquakes based on visible damage (range: 1-12).

Distribution of Earthquakes

• Circum-Pacific Belt : 81% of earthquakes occur here.
• Alpide Earthquake Belt : 17% of the largest earthquakes occur here.
• Mid-Atlantic Ridge : Mostly submerged underwater.

Earthquakes in India

• India is highly affected by earthquakes due to the presence of tectonically active mountains, particularly the Himalayas.
• The country has been divided into four seismic zones (II, III, IV, and V) based on the level of seismic activity, with Zone V being the most active.

Seismic Zones in India

• Zone I : Least active.
• Zone II : Moderate activity.
• Zone III : High activity.
• Zone IV : Very high activity.
• Zone V : Highest activity.

UCC Implementation in Uttarakhand

The Uttarakhand Assembly passed the UCC bill on 7th February 2024, with implementation expected by the end of 2024.

• UCC Overview: The UCC mandates the registration of live-in relationships akin to marriages, specifying that live-in partners must be at least 18 years old.
• Registration Process: Government employees will receive training for the registration process, which will be available online and offline. The online facility aims to streamline the process for couples and reduce the need for multiple visits to the registrar's office.
• Parental Notification: Parents of couples aged between 18 and 21 will be informed about their children's live-in relationships.
• Penalties: The bill stipulates that individuals living in a registered relationship for over a month without registration may face imprisonment of up to three months, a fine of up to Rs 10,000, or both.
• Maintenance Claims: Women deserted by their partners in a live-in relationship can claim maintenance through a competent court in the jurisdiction where they last cohabited.
• Exemptions: The small tribal community in Uttarakhand is exempt from the proposed law requiring registration of live-in relationships.

Regulatory System for Chardham Pilgrimage

The Uttarakhand Government is planning to introduce a regulatory system for the Chardham pilgrimage due to the increasing number of pilgrims. This new system is similar to the 2019 ‘Devasthanam Management Board’ which was discontinued because of protests from priests.

• To facilitate this, the government has formed a special High-Level Committee (HLC) tasked with recommending the establishment of a new authority or institution to oversee Chardham and other religious pilgrimages in the state.
• The HLC will ensure the smooth regulation of future pilgrimages and will also monitor and control the daily influx of devotees during the ongoing Chardham pilgrimage, which includes the shrines of Gangotri, Yamunotri, Badrinath, and Kedarnath.

Char Dham Yatra

Yamunotri Dham:

• Location: Uttarkashi district.
• Dedicated to: Goddess Yamuna, whose river is the second-most sacred in India after River Ganga.

Gangotri Dham:

• Dedicated to: Goddess Ganga, considered the most sacred of all Indian rivers.

Kedarnath Dham:

• Location: Rudraprayag district.
• Dedicated to: Lord Shiva, situated on the bank of the Mandakini River.
• Significance: One of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, representing Lord Shiva.

Badrinath Dham:

• Location: Chamoli district.
• Dedicated to: Lord Vishnu, home to the sacred Badrinarayan Temple.
• Significance: One of the holy shrines for Vaishnavites.

Abolition of Revenue Police System in Uttarakhand

The Uttarakhand High Court has recently ordered the state government to completely abolish the revenue police system within a year. This system is to be replaced by regular police in the areas currently under the jurisdiction of revenue police. Uttarakhand is unique in India for having both revenue police and regular police operating simultaneously.

• Revenue police, staffed by officials from the revenue department, has limited powers and primarily oversees remote rural areas in the hill state. The High Court had previously mandated the removal of this nearly century-old practice in 2018. Additionally, the state cabinet had passed a resolution in October 2022 to phase out the revenue police system.
• The Supreme Court, in the 2004 case of Navin Chandra vs State Government, highlighted the need for abolishing this system, pointing out that revenue police lack the training and basic facilities required for effective crime investigation. 
• The revenue police system in Uttarakhand dates back to the 1800s when the British established it to collect revenues from natural resources and minerals in the region after the Gurkhas were expelled from Garhwal. Initially, it was believed that a special police force was unnecessary in the hill areas due to the low crime rate.

Verification Drive of Outsiders in Uttarakhand

The Chief Minister of Uttarakhand has announced the resumption of a verification drive by the Uttarakhand Police to confirm the identities of people coming from other states and residing in Uttarakhand. 

• This drive aims to maintain law and order and check the credentials of outsiders living in the state, especially in light of criminal activities committed by individuals from other states. Instances of terrorists being apprehended in Uttarakhand, as well as in other states, have highlighted the need for such a verification process.
• The verification drive will restart after the conclusion of the Lok Sabha elections, once the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) imposed by the Election Commission of India is lifted. The MCC is a set of guidelines agreed upon by political parties to ensure fair conduct during elections, helping the Election Commission uphold its mandate to conduct free and fair elections as per Article 324 of the Constitution. 
• The MCC is in effect from the announcement of the election schedule until the results are declared, during which the government is prohibited from making certain announcements and promises.

Supreme Court Halts Hotel Project in Uttarakhand's Forested Area

The Supreme Court has recently put a stop to a significant hotel development in the Bhimtal-Mukteshwar region of Uttarakhand. This decision comes in response to a petition raising concerns about extensive deforestation in the Jilling Estate area, which is known for its lush greenery.

• The court highlighted that a thickly forested patch was allowed to be cleared for the hotel project, which plans to undertake construction activities covering an area of 20,000 square feet. 
• Such deforestation would lead to irreversible damage to the delicate ecology of the region and could negatively impact the state's efforts to maintain sufficient forest cover.

Environmental Clearance Issue

• A critical issue in this case is that the High Court had permitted the construction to proceed without the necessary environmental clearance, as mandated by the Environment Impact Assessment Notification of 2006. 
• This lack of clearance raises significant concerns about the potential environmental impact of the project.

Forest Fires Concern

• The Supreme Court had previously expressed serious concerns about the state government's insufficient efforts in controlling forest fires, which occur annually. 
• This ongoing issue further underscores the fragility of the region's ecology and the importance of protecting its forested areas.

Snow Leopards Spotted in Gangotri National Park

Snow leopards, often called the "ghost of the mountains," have been sighted in Gangotri National Park. These majestic animals are native to the mountainous regions of Central and Southern Asia. In India, they are primarily found in the Western Himalayas (Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh) and the Eastern Himalayas (Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh).

Major Sites for Snow Leopards in India

• Hemis National Park, Ladakh - known as the snow leopard capital of the world
• Great Himalayan National Park, Himachal Pradesh
• Gangotri National Park, Uttarakhand
• Khangchendzonga National Park, Sikkim

Snow Leopard

• Vulnerable: IUCN Red List
• Human Snow Leopard Conflict
• Appendix I: CITES
• Climate Change
• Schedule I: Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972
• Loss of Prey and Habitat
• Poaching

Conservation Efforts

• Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection (GSLEP) Programme Himal Sanrakshak-Community Volunteer Programme Project 
• Snow Leopard Snow Leopard Conservation Breeding Programme - Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, West BengalSnow Leopard Census of India

Recent Census Findings

• The latest snow leopard census in India, released in early 2024, reports a total of 718 snow leopards across the country. 
• Uttarakhand is home to 124 snow leopards, making it the state with the second-highest population in India, following Ladakh, which has 477 snow leopards.

Gangotri National Park

• Location and Establishment: Gangotri National Park, established in 1989, is situated in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, within the upper catchment area of the Bhagirathi River.
• Significance: The park is notable for housing Gaumukh, the origin of the Ganga River, and it serves as a vital ecological link between Govind National Park and Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Flora: The park is characterized by dense temperate coniferous forests, with predominant species including chir pine, deodar, fir, spruce, oak, and rhododendron.
• Fauna: Gangotri National Park is home to various rare and endangered species such as the bharal (blue sheep), black bear, brown bear, Himalayan monal, Himalayan snowcock, Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and snow leopard.

Snow Leopard Population in Uttarakhand:

• Uttarakhand is reported to have 124 snow leopards, with significant populations in districts like Uttarkashi, Tehri, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Pithoragarh, and Bageshwar.
• Gangotri National Park alone is estimated to have 38 to 40 snow leopards.

IUCN Red List Status:

• The snow leopard is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, with an estimated global population of fewer than 10,000 individuals.
• In Uttarakhand, snow leopards are primarily found in the districts of Uttarkashi, Tehri, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Pithoragarh, and Bageshwar.

Chinese Heron Sighted in Uttarakhand

• The Chinese Pond Heron, typically found in northeastern India, Rajasthan, and Bhutan, has been sighted for the first time in Uttarakhand.
• Experts indicate that there were no previous records of this bird in the state.
• The heron has newly chosen the Kotdwar area of the Lansdowne forest division for breeding.
• During summer, various migratory birds are observed in the dense forests of the Saneh area of Kotdwar and Lansdowne forest division, suggesting a favorable environment for these species.
• The influx of birds from northeastern states signifies the region's suitability for such wildlife.

About the Chinese Pond Heron

• The Chinese Pond Heron (  Ardeola bacchus  ) is a freshwater bird belonging to the heron family, native to East Asia.
• It is one of six species classified as “pond herons” within the genus Ardeola.
• Typically, it measures around 47 cm (19 inches) in length, featuring white wings, a yellow bill tipped with black, yellow eyes, and yellow legs.
• During the breeding season, its plumage showcases a mix of red, blue, and white, while at other times, it appears greyish-brown with white flecks.
• This heron inhabits shallow freshwater and saltwater wetlands and ponds.
• It is considered a common species and is currently listed as of Least Concern (LC) by conservation authorities.

Plastic Free Ganga

The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) and the Social Development for Communities (SDC) Foundation have partnered on an initiative called “ Flowing Towards a Plastic-Free Future .” This project aims to remove plastic pollution from the Ganga River and its 15 tributaries, while also conserving the aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.

• The campaign will span five days and cover seven states: Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Jharkhand.
• The focus of this initiative is to raise awareness about the harmful impact of plastic on freshwater biodiversity.

Wildlife Institute of India (WII)

• The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) is an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in India.
• It was established in 1982 and is located in Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
• WII conducts training programs, academic courses, and provides advisory services in the field of wildlife research and management.

Ganga River

• The Ganga River is the longest river in India, stretching over 2,510 km through mountains, valleys, and plains.
• It is considered the most sacred river on earth by Hindus.
• The Ganga basin covers an area of 10,86,000 Sq.km in India, Tibet (China), Nepal, and Bangladesh.
• In India, the basin includes states such as Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar, West Bengal, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, and the Union Territory of Delhi.
• The river originates in the Gangotri Glacier in the Himalayas.
• At its source, it is called the Bhagirathi River. It becomes the Ganga after merging with the Alaknanda River at Devprayag.
• Major tributaries include the Yamuna and the Son (right bank), and the Ramganga, Ghaghra, Gandak, Kosi, and Mahananda (left bank).
• The river is home to the endangered Ganges River Dolphin.
• In Bangladesh, the Ganga joins the Brahmaputra (Jamuna) River and is called the Padma. It flows into the Bay of Bengal after forming the Ganges Delta in the Sundarbans.

Additional Virtual Classrooms in Uttarakhand

The Uttarakhand government is set to launch 840 new virtual classrooms with support from Telecommunications Consultants India (TCIL).

• These classrooms will allow teachers in Dehradun to conduct live online classes for students.
• Initially, the scheme has been extended to 1.9 lakh students in classes 6 to 12.
• Efforts are underway to ensure that underprivileged students receive education without technical difficulties.
• Coaching will also be offered to students preparing for medical and engineering entrance exams to facilitate socio-economic change.
• The program is currently being implemented in 500 government schools across 13 districts of Uttarakhand.
• It utilizes Remote Operated Terminals (ROTs) and Satellite Interactive Technology for interactive communication in virtual classrooms, enabling both online and offline learning.
• Parents and teachers can monitor students' progress through dedicated applications.

Uttarakhand Forest Fires

The Supreme Court of India has called for an explanation from the Uttarakhand government regarding the non-utilization of central funds for extinguishing forest fires.

• The court has summoned the chief secretary of Uttarakhand to appear on May 17th to address the government’s “lackadaisical” approach in dealing with the fires.

Concerns Raised by the Supreme Court

• The bench, led by Justice BR Gavai, highlighted the discrepancy between the preparation of multiple action plans and their actual implementation.
• The court also expressed concern over the large vacancies in the forest department, the inadequate fire-fighting equipment, and the deployment of forest officials for poll duty despite a specific exemption.

Impact of the Forest Fires

• Approximately 1,300 hectares of land have been affected due to the ongoing forest fires in Uttarakhand.

Pirul Lao-Paise Pao Mission

• In response to the forest fire issue, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami launched the Pirul Lao-Paise Pao Mission.
• This initiative aims to collect pine tree leaves (Pirul) from the forest to prevent forest fires. Local villagers and youth will gather, weigh, and store these leaves at designated collection centers.

Shambhu River

In Kunwari village, located in the Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand, the Shambhu River has once again formed a man-made lake, covering approximately 2 square kilometers. 

• This occurrence has raised alarms among local residents about the potential for a disaster.
• The creation of this lake is similar to previous incidents in 2022 and 2023 when the obstruction of the river’s course led to the formation of similar lakes, prompting swift administrative measures to avert possible flooding downstream.
• The Shambhu River, which originates in Bageshwar, eventually merges with the Pindar River in Chamoli district.

Pine Needle Power Projects Prove to be Inadequate

Bio-energy projects set up by the Uttarakhand Renewable Energy Development Agency (UREDA), to use the vast quantities of flammable pine needles for generating electricity have been “unsuccessful”, with officials saying appropriate technology does not yet exist to use them.

• State authorities have frequently attempted to mitigate the risk of worsening annual forest fires caused by a combination of factors such as climate change-induced droughts and increasing stores of organic material like pine needles and agricultural waste.
• The Uttarakhand government was criticized by the Supreme Court following petitions related to the forest fires caused by the accumulation of dry pine due to low rainfall in April and May 2024.
• In 2021, the State government announced a scheme to establish power projects utilizing pine needles as fuel to produce electricity.
• The initial proposal included creating several units ranging from 10kW to 250 kW in three phases (totalling about 150 MW).
• Despite anticipating the establishment of 58 units, only six 250 kW units (with a total capacity of 750 kW) have been installed so far.
• In 2023, the Uttarakhand government said it was unable to meet its renewable power purchase due to the shortfall in power generated from pine needle projects.
• The abundance of pine needles in Uttarakhand offers a valuable resource.

Chir Pine (Pinus Roxburghii)

• Overview: Chir pine, scientifically known as Pinus Roxburghii, is a type of pine tree that is native to the Himalayan region. It is a crucial source of timber and is widely used for various commercial purposes.
• Habitat: Chir pine is primarily found in the Indian subcontinent, including countries like India, Nepal, Bhutan, and parts of Pakistan.
• Physical Characteristics: Chir pine is an evergreen coniferous tree that can reach heights of 30 to 50 meters. The bark of the tree is thick, scaly, and reddish-brown in color. The leaves are needle-like, growing in bundles of three, and can be 20 to 30 cm long. The tree produces oval-shaped cones that contain seeds.
• Conservation Status: The conservation status of Chir pine, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), is Least Concern (LC). This indicates that the species is not currently facing significant threats to its population.
• Forest Area and Pine Needle Production: Official records show that about 16.36% of Uttarakhand's forest area, approximately 3,99,329 hectares, is covered by forests. Each year, over 15 lakh tonnes of pine needles are produced in the state.
• Potential for Energy and Employment: If 40% of the estimated pine needle production, along with other agricultural waste, could be utilized, it would significantly help meet the state's energy needs. This would also create job opportunities and support livelihoods in the region.

Forest Fires Threaten Rare Himalayan Fauna

According to the forest department, forest fires that occur annually in Uttarakhand cause significant damage to the region’s precious forest resources like trees, plants, bushes, herbs and thick layers of soil. It also threatens rare Himalayan fauna - wild animals, birds, reptiles, butterflies, honey bees, mammals, common flies, and soil-enriching bacteria.

• Impact on Wildlife: Forest fires pose a serious threat to various species, including:
• Birds: Species such as the cheer pheasant, kalij pheasant, rufous-bellied woodpecker, common rose, chocolate pansy, and common crow are affected. These birds have their breeding season from March to June, coinciding with the peak period of forest fires.
• Butterflies: According to a non-governmental organisation (NGO) focused on preserving Himalayan butterflies, there are 350 species of butterflies in the region, 120 of which are endangered. These butterflies rely on host plants that are destroyed in forest fires.
• Yellow-Headed Tortoise: The Dehradun-based Forest Research Institute is studying the impact of forest fires on the yellow-headed tortoise, which is found throughout South Asia.
• Conservation Status: The cheer pheasant is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List and is protected under CITES Appendix I and Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act. The rufous-bellied woodpecker is also protected under CITES and the Wildlife Protection Act.
• Forest Fire Statistics: Since November 2023, forest fires in Uttarakhand have affected more than 1,437 hectares of forested areas.

Cheer Pheasant

• Overview: The cheer pheasant, scientifically known as Catreus wallichii, is a vulnerable species of pheasant belonging to the family Phasianidae. It is the sole member of its genus, Catreus.
• Conservation Status: The cheer pheasant is classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. It is also listed in CITES Appendix I, which provides for the strictest level of protection for endangered species. In India, the cheer pheasant is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

Rufous-Bellied Woodpecker

• Overview: The rufous-bellied woodpecker, scientifically known as Dendrocopos hyperythrus, is a species of woodpecker belonging to the family Picidae.
• Habitat: This woodpecker species is found along the Himalayas and is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia.

Badrinath Temple in Uttarakhand Opens for Devotees

The Badrinath Temple in Uttarakhand, located in the Garhwal Himalayas, reopened its doors to devotees on May 12, 2024, after being closed for the winter season. This event marked the beginning of the Chardham Yatra, which includes the pilgrimage to Kedarnath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri. The reopening ceremony involved the chanting of Vedic mantras, performance of rituals, and the playing of drums.

Key Points

Chardham Yatra

• The reopening of the Badrinath temple signifies the start of the Chardham Yatra, which includes the shrines of Kedarnath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri.
• The temple doors were opened after six months of closure with traditional rituals.

Akshaya Tritiya

• The Kedarnath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri temples also opened for devotees on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya.

Badrinath Temple

• The Badrinath Temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams, sacred sites dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped here as Badrinath.
• It is located along the banks of the Alaknanda River in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand.

Government Investment in Roads Along China Border

• The Indian government is set to invest over Rs. 2 crore per kilometre for road construction along the China border in Uttarakhand and Sikkim under the Vibrant Village Programme (VVP).
• The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has approved 113 roads in Arunachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Sikkim to enhance connectivity in border areas.
• Uttarakhand is set to receive 43.96 km of roads in Pithoragarh district at a cost of Rs. 119 crore, with an estimated cost of Rs. 2.7 crore per kilometre.
• In Sikkim, approximately 18.73 km of roads and 350 metres of steel bridges have been sanctioned at a cost of Rs. 96 crore, with a per kilometre cost of Rs. 2.4 crore.

Vibrant Villages Programme

• The VVP is a centrally sponsored scheme aimed at improving the quality of life in villages along the northern border, covering areas in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Ladakh.
• A total of 2,963 villages will be covered, with 663 villages in the first phase.
• District administrations, in collaboration with Gram Panchayats, will create Vibrant Village Action Plans.
• The VVP will not overlap with the Border Area Development Programme.

Uttarakhand High Court Directs Government to Find New Site for Relocation

The Uttarakhand High Court has instructed the state government to identify a new location for relocating its operations out of Nainital within a month. The court believes that this move is in the best interest of the public.

• Additionally, the court has directed the Registrar General to create a portal to gather suggestions from advocates and the general public regarding the relocation issue.
• The high court expressed concerns about the government's previous proposal to shift the High Court to Gaulapar in Haldwani, noting that the land designated for this purpose had 75% forest cover. Constructing in this area would result in significant deforestation, which the court aims to avoid.
• The court also provided recommendations for the type of land required for its relocation, emphasizing the need for proper accommodations for judges, judicial officers, staff, and courtrooms.
• However, the decision to shift the high court's premises has faced considerable opposition from the bar association.

Bar Council of India

About:

• The Bar Council of India is a statutory body established by Parliament under the Advocates Act, 1961, to regulate and represent the Indian bar.

Regulatory Functions:

• Prescribing standards of professional conduct and etiquette for advocates.
• Establishing procedures for disciplinary actions.
• Setting standards for legal education in India and recognizing qualifying law degrees.

Other Responsibilities:

• Protecting the rights, privileges, and interests of advocates.
• Organizing legal aid for the underprivileged.
• Conducting elections for Bar Council members.
• Dealing with and disposing of matters referred by a State Bar Council.

Researchers from IIT-Roorkee Develop Early Warning System for Landslides

Researchers at IIT-Roorkee have recently developed a framework to predict landslides before they occur by analyzing rainfall patterns, providing at least a six-hour early warning. This study, published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal, is considered the first of its kind in India.

• The method combines meteorological modeling with numerical simulations of debris flows, leveraging the expertise of specialists in various fields such as meteorology, hydrology, geomorphology, remote sensing, and geotechnical engineering.
• Researchers will collect real-time data on rainfall patterns in hilly areas from weather research agencies to enhance the accuracy of predictions.

Understanding Landslides

Landslides are natural disasters primarily occurring in mountainous regions where conditions involving soil, rock, geology, and slope are favorable. A landslide refers to the sudden movement of rock, boulders, earth, or debris down a slope.

Causes of Landslides

• Natural triggers include heavy rainfall, earthquakes, snowmelt, and the undercutting of slopes due to flooding.
• Anthropogenic activities such as excavation, hill and tree cutting, excessive infrastructure development, and overgrazing by cattle can also cause landslides.

Factors Influencing Landslides

• Lithology
• Geological structures like faults
• Hill slopes
• Drainage patterns
• Geomorphology
• Land use and land cover
• Soil texture and depth
• Weathering of rocks

All these factors are considered when earmarking a landslide susceptibility zone for planning and making predictions.

Low Water Level in Bhimtal Lake

Bhimtal Lake, located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand’s Nainital district, is facing a significant drop in water levels, currently at 17 metres, down from 22 metres. This decline is attributed to the insufficient rainfall and snowfall in the state.

• The situation has adversely impacted the tourism industry in the hill town, leading to a sharp decrease in the number of visitors. The low water levels in the lake also threaten the livelihoods of thousands who depend on it, including hotels and resorts.
• Furthermore, the continuous neglect of the lake by authorities and the flushing of various drains into the lake has worsened the condition.

About Bhimtal Lake

• Bhimtal Lake is the largest lake in the Nainital district and the Kumaon region, which is known as the “lake district of India.”
• The lake is named after Bhima, the second Pandava from the epic Mahabharata.
• It is a natural lake formed due to several geological faults caused by the shifting of the Earth’s crust.
• During the British colonial period in 1883, a masonry dam was constructed on the lake.
• The area around the lake is rich in flora and fauna, with thick forests of pine and oak covering the hill slopes. The lake is also a habitat for various migratory birds during winter, including species like bulbul, wall creeper, Emerald Dove, Black Eagle, and Tawny fish owl.

IAF Continues to Douse Forest Fire in Uttarakhand

• Forest Fire Update : The Uttarakhand government has reported a decrease in forest fires, with only 15 small to intermediate fires currently active, indicating that the emergency situation has improved.
• Pirul Collection Campaign : Chief Minister of Uttarakhand has called for a collective effort to gather Pirul (pine leaves) from the forests. The government is promoting the ‘Pirul Lao-Paise Pao’ initiative, which encourages residents to collect pine leaves to prevent forest fires. Under this scheme, Pirul will be bought at ₹50 per kilogram at collection centres.
• Indian Air Force (IAF) Assistance : The IAF is actively helping to extinguish forest fires in Uttarakhand. They have conducted 23 sorties over 11 and a half hours, using 44,600 litres of water to combat the flames.
• Bambi Bucket Operations : In the Pauri Garhwal sector of Uttarakhand, the IAF has been using Mi17 V5 helicopters to perform Bambi Bucket operations. This involves using a specialized container suspended under a helicopter to collect water from rivers or ponds and discharge it over the fire. Bambi Bucket operations are crucial for tackling wildfires in areas that are hard to reach from the ground.

Wildfires Endanger Uttarakhand's Wildlife and Ecosystem

Wildfires raging through Uttarakhand's forests are posing a severe threat to the state's rich wildlife, including iconic species such as tigers, elephants, and leopards, as well as various birds and reptiles. The fires are putting immense pressure on the ecosystem, particularly affecting birds and reptiles that struggle to escape due to their limited mobility.

• According to environmental experts, the wildfires have led to the tragic loss of numerous bird species, including those that were nesting during this critical period. The situation is particularly concerning for the critically endangered yellow-headed tortoise, which is at greater risk during the fire season when it seeks shelter under dried Sal leaves. The decline in the tortoise population, already facing challenges, could have significant implications for the species' survival.
• Gajendra Pathak, associated with the Jungle Bachao Jeevan Bachao campaign, highlights the broader ecological consequences of the wildfires. The burning of leaves not only harms wildlife but also disrupts the essential humus layer crucial for soil health and erosion prevention. Additionally, the disappearance of insects such as beetles, ants, and spiders further complicates the delicate ecological balance.

Yellow-Headed Tortoise

• Scientific name: Indotestudo elongata
• Common name: Elongated tortoise, Yellow Tortoise, and Sal forest tortoise
• Distribution: Found in Southeast Asia and parts of the Indian Subcontinent, particularly Northeast India
• Physical description: These tortoises, which can grow up to 1 foot long, have elongated, narrow carapaces and yellow heads. Their shells are typically pale tannish-yellow to caramel, with black blotches.
• IUCN Red List Status: Critically Endangered
• Population: The IUCN estimates that the population of this species may have declined by about 80% in the last three generations (90 years).
• Threats: Heavily hunted for food and collected for local use, such as decorative masks, and international wildlife trade. In China, a mixture made by grinding up the tortoise's shell is used as an aphrodisiac.

Thunderstorms and Western Disturbances

• Thunderstorm Forecast: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that a new western disturbance will impact Northwest India, bringing various weather conditions to the region. From May 9th to 12th, 2024, rain accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds is expected over most parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
• Understanding Western Disturbances: Western disturbances are storms that originate in the Caspian or Mediterranean Sea and bring non-monsoonal rainfall to northwest India. These extra-tropical storms are characterized by low-pressure systems that can lead to sudden showers, snow, and fog in the region.
• Importance for Agriculture: Western disturbances are crucial for the development of rabi crops in the Northern subcontinent. They provide winter and pre-monsoon rain, which is beneficial for these crops. However, these disturbances are not always harbingers of good weather.
• Potential Risks: While western disturbances can bring much-needed rain, they can also cause extreme weather events such as flash floods, landslides, cold waves, floods, dust storms, and hail storms. These events can lead to loss of life, destruction of infrastructure, and impact livelihoods.
• Rabi Crops: Rabi crops are sown during the retreating monsoon and Northeast monsoon season, starting in October. These crops, including wheat, gram, peas, and barley, are harvested typically during April and May. Rabi crops require a warm climate for seed germination and a cold climate for their growth. Unlike kharif crops, rabi crops are not significantly affected by rainfall during their growth period.

Capacity Building Programme on Project and Risk Management for Public Works

Recently, a two-week Capacity Building Programme on Project and Risk Management for Public Works has begun at the National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG) in Mussoorie, aimed at officers from the Republic of Tanzania.

• NCGG's Mission: NCGG is dedicated to action research, studies, and capacity building both nationally and internationally, embodying the Indian philosophy of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" - "The world is one family." This approach strengthens bilateral ties and promotes cooperation with other countries.
• Program Focus: The program aims to provide a rich cross-country experience and a platform for policy dialogue, sharing best practices in project and risk management across various sectors. Participants will gain insights into project planning, execution, institutional transformation, and enhancing citizen-government relations.
• Core Objectives: The training program's core objectives include equipping officers with essential skills in Project and Risk Management for Public Works and showcasing various relevant projects and works.
• Immersive Field Visits:The program includes immersive field visits to key project sites such as:
  • Dakpathar Hydropower and Irrigation Dam
  • NHAI projects in Uttarakhand
  • Dwarka Expressway in New Delhi
  • Indira Paryavaran Bhawan
  • World Trade Centre NBCC in New Delhi
  • Delhi Metro Rail Corporation
  • Visit to the Taj Mahal

National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG)

• Establishment: NCGG was established in 2014 by the Government of India as an apex-level autonomous institution under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.
• Origin: The Centre's origin traces back to the National Institute of Administrative Research (NIAR), set up in 1995 by the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA), India's premier civil services training institute. NIAR was later renamed and integrated into NCGG.
• Governance Focus: NCGG addresses a wide range of governance issues at local, state, and national levels across all sectors. It is mandated to work on governance, policy reforms, capacity building, training of civil servants and technocrats in India and other developing countries, and acts as a think tank.

Abbott Mountain in Uttarakhand

• Location and Historical Significance: Abbott Mountain is located in Lohaghat, a town in the Champawat district of Uttarakhand. The mountain is named after Dr. James Abbott, a British surgeon who served as the Commissioner of Kumaon during the British Raj. Dr. Abbott's contributions to the development of the region are commemorated through this peak.
• Natural Beauty and Adventure: The region surrounding Abbott Mountain is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. The area is rich in flora and fauna, including rare Himalayan species such as musk deer and various bird species.
• Indian Himalayan Region (IHR): The IHR includes ten states and four hill districts of India, such as Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and the hill districts of Dima Hasao and Karbi Anglong in Assam, and Darjeeling and Kalimpong in West Bengal.
• Environmental Concerns: Uncontrolled demand-driven economic growth in the IHR has led to haphazard urbanization, environmental degradation, and increased risks and vulnerabilities, threatening the unique values of Himalayan ecosystems.
• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): The roadmap for sustainable development in the Indian Himalayas should align with relevant SDGs, ensuring that development is in harmony with the region's environmental, sociocultural, and sacred values.

Earthquake Hits Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand

The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) reported a 2.6 magnitude earthquake in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand.

Details of the Earthquake

• Epicentre: Located at Latitude 31.00 and Longitude 79.31.
• Depth: 5 kilometres.

Role of the National Centre for Seismology

• The NCS, under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, is responsible for monitoring earthquake activity in India.
• Currently, India has 115 earthquake observatories.

Importance of Earthquake Observatories

• Earthquake observatories play a crucial role in predicting earthquakes accurately, including the timing of such events.

Nepal to Issue New Rs 100 Note Featuring Indian Territories

Controversial Map Inclusion

• Nepal is set to print a new Rs 100 currency note that includes a map featuring Indian territories: Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura, and Kalapani.
• This move follows Nepal's earlier inclusion of these territories in its own political map.

Background of the Dispute

• In November 2019, India updated its map to include Lipulekh, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura.
• Tensions escalated when Nepal issued its political map in May 2020, claiming these territories.
• Further strain occurred when Nepal protested against India's inauguration of a road through these areas in 2020.

Sugauli Treaty and Territorial Claims

• Nepal bases its claim on the Sugauli Treaty of 1816, which it interprets as granting it rights to territories east of the Kali (Mahakali) river, including Limpiyadhura, Kalapani, and Lipulekh.
• India contends that the Sugauli Treaty was annulled by the 1950 Treaty of Peace and Friendship between the two nations.

Historical Context

• Nepal argues that treaties like the 1923 Nepal–Britain Treaty of Friendship reaffirmed its territorial rights during British rule.

Border Dispute Overview

• The border dispute primarily involves the Kalapani, Limpiyadhura, and Lipulekh trijunction between India and Nepal, as well as the Susta area in Bihar.
• Kalapani Region : Administered by India as part of the Pithoragarh district in Uttarakhand, Kalapani is located along the Kailash Mansarovar route.

Kalapani Region

• Location and Strategic Importance: Kalapani is situated at an elevation of over 20,000 feet, making it a strategically significant observation post in the region.

Kali River and Boundary Dispute

• Kali River: The river in the Kalapani region serves as the boundary between India and Nepal.
• Treaty of Sugauli: Signed in 1816 between the Kingdom of Nepal and British India after the Anglo-Nepalese War, this treaty established the Kali River as Nepal’s western boundary with India.
• Discrepancy and Dispute: The disagreement over the exact source of the Kali River has led to ongoing boundary disputes, with both countries providing maps to support their claims.

Uttarakhand Wildfires and Glacial Impact

• Wildfire Incidents: Since November 2023, Uttarakhand has experienced 886 wildfires, destroying 1,107 hectares of forest cover. This has raised alarms about the severe impact on local ecosystems.
• Forest Survey of India (FSI) Alerts: The FSI has issued several fire alerts to Uttarakhand, highlighting the seriousness of the wildfire situation.
• Black Carbon and Glacier Melting: A former scientist from the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology has pointed out that the increased presence of black carbon in the atmosphere, especially during summer due to forest fires, worsens glacier melting. This disrupts the fragile balance of the ecosystem.
• World Bank Study: A study by the World Bank emphasizes how black carbon accelerates glacier melt by reducing the reflectance of glacier surfaces. This leads to greater absorption of solar radiation and higher air temperatures, further speeding up glacier retreat.
• World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Warning: The WMO has warned of faster glacier retreat in the Himalayas and increased risks of natural disasters such as Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs). Their study underscores the need to address black carbon emissions to protect the delicate ecosystems in the Himalayan region.

Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG)

• The Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology is a research institute under the Department of Science & Technology, focused on studying the geology of the Himalayan region.
• Established in June 1968 in Delhi University, the institute was later relocated to Dehradun in April 1976.

Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF)

• GLOF is a catastrophic flood resulting from the failure of a dam containing a glacial lake, releasing a large volume of water rapidly.
• Causes include rapid glacier melting, heavy precipitation, or the inflow of meltwater into the lake.
• Flash floods in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand in February 2021 are suspected to be caused by GLOFs.
• Triggers for GLOFs can include changes in glacier volume, water level of the lake, and seismic activities.
• According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), climate change-induced glacial retreat in the Hindu Kush Himalayas has led to the formation of new glacial lakes, increasing the risk of GLOFs.

Conservation of the Kumaon Fan Palm

The Uttarakhand Forest Research Wing has achieved a significant milestone by successfully growing 300 seedlings of the Kumaon Fan Palm at the Paatalthod nursery in Pithoragarh. This initiative aims to revive and conserve this unique palm species, which is the only known palm capable of surviving in subzero temperatures, earning it the title of the hardest palm in the world.

The Kumaon Fan Palm, scientifically known as  Trachycarpus takil  , is native to the Kumaon division of Uttarakhand and adjacent western Nepal. It thrives at altitudes between 1,800 to 2,700 meters, where it regularly experiences snow and frost. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified this palm species as 'threatened,' a designation also supported by the Uttarakhand Biodiversity Board.

Background on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)

• The IUCN is a membership union comprising both government and civil society organizations, established in 1948.
• Headquartered in Switzerland, the IUCN serves as the global authority on the status of the natural world and the necessary measures to safeguard it.
• One of its key initiatives is the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, which is the most comprehensive inventory of the global conservation status of plant and animal species.

Nakshatra Sabha: Promoting Astro Tourism in Uttarakhand

The Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board has partnered with Starscapes, a prominent astro-tourism company, to launch a new initiative aimed at providing a comprehensive Astro experience to visitors.

• This campaign will feature various activities such as stargazing, solar observations, astrophotography contests, and camping under the stars.
• By bringing together astronomy enthusiasts, adventurers, and travelers, the initiative seeks to showcase the wonders of the cosmos.
• Uttarakhand's natural beauty, forest cover, and hospitality sector make it an attractive destination for Astro Tourists.

George Everest in Mussoorie: Host of Nakshatra Sabha

• George Everest in Mussoorie will host the Nakshatra Sabha from early June until mid-2025, offering a variety of events across Uttarakhand.
• The events will focus on exploring potential night sky sites in districts like Uttarkashi, Pithoragarh, Nainital, and Chamoli.
• Experts will lead seminars and webinars to raise awareness about the importance of preserving dark skies.

Objectives of Nakshatra Sabha

• The campaign aims to build a community dedicated to conserving dark skies in Uttarakhand.
• It will promote professional training, skill development, and support local economies while advocating for the preservation of night skies.
• By 2025, Nakshatra Sabha plans to establish a policy for preserving dark skies across the region.