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

National Landslide Risk Mitigation Project

Landslide Mitigation

Recently, a High-Level Committee led by the Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation approved Rs 1,115.67 crore for disaster risk reduction and skill enhancement projects across various states.

Key Points

• The committee assessed plans to reduce landslide risks in 15 states using the National Disaster Mitigation Fund ( NDMF ).
• Funding was also approved from the National Disaster Response Fund ( NDRF. for training and skill-building programmes for Civil Defence volunteers in all states and union territories.
• The National Landslide Risk Mitigation Project was sanctioned for 15 states with a total budget of Rs 1,000 crore.

State-wise allocations:

• Uttarakhand: Rs 139 crore
• Himachal Pradesh: Rs 139 crore
• Eight North-East States: Rs 378 crore
• Maharashtra: Rs 100 crore
• Karnataka: Rs 72 crore
• Kerala: Rs 72 crore
• Tamil Nadu: Rs 50 crore
• West Bengal: Rs 50 crore

The training and skill development of Civil Defence volunteers across all states and union territories was approved, with a total budget of Rs 115.67 crore.

Previous Approvals by the Committee:

• Urban Flood Risk Mitigation Projects: Approved for seven cities with a total budget of Rs 3,075.65 crore.
• GLOF (Glacial Lake Outburst Flood) Risk Management Projects: Approved for four states (Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh) at a total cost of Rs 150 crore under NDMF.

National Disaster Relief Fund

• The National Calamity Contingency Fund ( NCCF. was renamed to National Disaster Response Fund ( NDRF. with the passing of the Disaster Management Act, 2005.
• It is outlined in Section 46 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005.
• Managed by the Central Government, it covers expenses for emergency response, relief, and rehabilitation during any serious disaster situation.
• This fund acts as a supplement to the State Disaster Response Fund during severe disasters when other funds are insufficient.

Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF)

• A glacial lake outburst flood ( GLOF. is a major flood that happens when the barrier holding a glacial lake fails, releasing a large amount of water.
• This flood is usually caused by fast glacier melting or excess water in the lake due to heavy rainfall or inflow of meltwater.
• In February 2021, Chamoli district in Uttarakhand experienced flash floods, suspected to be caused by GLOFs.

Environmental Crisis Over the Rivers in Uttarakhand

Why in News?

Uttarakhand, known for its pristine rivers and streams, is facing a severe environmental crisis.

Changing weather patterns, climate change, and increased human activities are threatening to dry up the state’s 206 perennial rivers and streams.

Current Situation:

• A report by the Spring and Rejuvenation Authority (SARA) indicates that 5,428 water sources in Uttarakhand are under significant threat.
• Experts from SARA point out that human activities, not natural causes, are the primary reason for the decline of these water bodies.

Establishment of SARA:

• In reaction to this crisis, the Uttarakhand government established SARA to evaluate the condition of its perennial rivers and streams.
• The initiative aims to understand the impact of climate change on these vital water sources.
• SARA has urged all relevant state departments to collaborate and share data regarding the condition of these water bodies.
• The findings have raised serious alarms within the government, indicating an urgent need for action.

Pilot Projects for River Rejuvenation:

• SARA has launched a pilot project to rejuvenate five key rivers: the Song River in Dehradun, the Western Nayar and Eastern Nayar in Pauri, the Shipra River in Nainital, and the Gaudi River in Champawat.
• The National Institute of Hydrology (NIH) and IIT Roorkee are studying these rivers, with plans to extend the project to other rivers based on the results.

Impact of Climate Change:

• Over the past 150 years, the rise in temperature due to climate change has been more pronounced in Tibet and the Himalayas compared to other parts of the world.
• This alarming trend contributes to severe environmental problems, including the depletion of water sources.
• Data from the Water Resources Department reveals that 288 water sources in the state have less than 50% of their original water levels, with nearly 50 sources having less than 75% remaining.

Related Observations & Impact:

• Environmentalists and local officials have observed drastic changes in water levels and river courses.
• In Bhimtal, the lake is increasingly resembling a plain, and similar issues are emerging in other rivers and water sources.
• Climate scientists warn that climate change is causing mountain erosion and leading rivers to alter their courses or flood.
• In Haldwani, the water levels of the Gaula and Kosi rivers have dropped, creating a crisis for drinking water and irrigation.

Uttarakhand's Grassland Conservation Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)

The Uttarakhand government's forest department is set to create a standard operating procedure (SOP) aimed at conserving grasslands in the state's Upper Himalayan Region.

This initiative is a response to the growing incidents of landslides and land subsidence triggered by both natural occurrences and human activities.

Grassland Conservation Efforts:

• Dayara Bugyal, an ecologically sensitive area, has demonstrated positive outcomes from previous ecological restoration initiatives.
• To replicate these benefits in other grasslands, the forest department intends to formulate a SOP for conservation.
• This SOP will prioritize reducing biological pressure and preventing further degradation of grassland areas.
• Thus far, conservation efforts have been implemented on approximately 83 hectares of land across 22 grasslands under the Bugyal Conservation Scheme.

Snow Leopard Conservation Center:

• During a recent visit, officials inspected a snow leopard conservation center currently under construction in Lanka near Gangotri.
• The center is anticipated to be completed within a year, offering tourists a unique opportunity to engage with the natural environment and observe snow leopards in their native habitat.
• Over the past decade, Gangotri National Park has gained recognition as a significant trans-Himalayan national park due to its biodiversity, conservation status, and the presence of important species.
• The Wildlife Institute of India has documented a notable population of snow leopards in the park, which was relatively unknown until recently.

Untreated Waste in Landfills of Kedarnath

Environmentalists are raising concerns as authorities continue to dump tonnes of untreated waste at landfill sites around the eco-sensitive region of Kedarnath.

Garbage Dumping in Kedarnath:

• Between 2022 and 2024, 49.18 tonnes of unprocessed garbage were dumped at two landfill sites near Kedarnath.
• The amount of untreated waste has been increasing:
  • 13.2 tonnes in 2022
  • 18.48 tonnes in 2023
  • 17.5 tonnes reported so far in 2024

Environmental Concerns:

• Activists have criticised the poor garbage management system.
• Kedarnath lacks proper waste treatment facilities.
• The temple's location requires urgent waste management reforms to protect the fragile ecosystem.
• The two landfill sites are approaching capacity, which could lead to significant environmental issues, similar to the 2013 disaster in the region.

Government and Legal Oversight:

• The National Green Tribunal (NGT) and the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) are addressing complaints.
• They have directed authorities to set up sewage treatment plants in Kedarnath.
• The NMCG noted that untreated waste is polluting the Mandakini River, a tributary of the Ganga.
• They instructed the Rudraprayag district administration to take action.

Understanding the Framework for Environmental Protection:

• Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) are areas within 10 km around Protected Areas, National Parks, and Wildlife Sanctuaries.
• ESZs are designated by the MoEFCC, Government of India, under the Environment Protection Act 1986.
• In sensitive areas, even regions beyond 10 km can be included in the eco-sensitive zone.
• The goal is to regulate activities around National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries to reduce negative impacts on the vulnerable ecosystem.

Igas Bagwal Festival: A Celebration of Culture and Community in Uttarakhand

Igas Bagwal, also known as Budhi Diwali or Harbodhni Ekadashi, is a vibrant festival celebrated in Uttarakhand, 11 days after the grand festival of Diwali. This unique celebration highlights the rich cultural heritage of the state and fosters a sense of community as people come together to participate in various traditions and festivities.

Origins and Significance of Igas Bagwal

• Igas Bagwal falls on Kartik Shukla Ekadashi, marking the end of Lord Vishnu's four-month period of rest. This auspicious time varies each year according to the lunar calendar, making it a period ripe for new beginnings.
• The word "Igas" reflects cultural pride and mythological respect in Uttarakhand.
• According to local lore, when news of Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya reached Uttarakhand 11 days after Diwali, the locals celebrated a unique version of Diwali, giving rise to Igas Bagwal.
• Another legend honours Garhwali warrior Madhav Singh Bhandari, who is said to have defeated the Tibetans at Dapaghati, symbolising unity and courage among the people.

Bhailo - The Torch Tradition

• A striking feature of Igas Bagwal is the creation of large torches known as Bhailo or Andhiyara. Villagers bind pinewood sticks together to form these torches, which are then lit and swung overhead. This ritual signifies the dispelling of darkness and the welcoming of light.
• Additionally, the torch ritual is believed to invoke the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of prosperity.

Festival Rituals and Honouring of Cattle

• Cattle hold a crucial place in the agricultural lifestyle of Uttarakhand, and during Igas Bagwal, they are honoured with special reverence. Villagers wash the cattle and adorn them with turmeric and mustard oil, symbolising purity and respect.
• Special meals are prepared for the animals, and traditional delicacies are shared among villagers, fostering a sense of community harmony and celebration.

Efforts to Preserve Igas Bagwal

• Local authorities and cultural organisations are actively involved in promoting Igas Bagwal through various programmes and awareness campaigns. These efforts aim to celebrate and preserve the vibrant heritage associated with the festival.
• Initiatives focused on the youth highlight the cultural significance of Igas Bagwal, ensuring that its legacy and traditions are passed down to future generations.

Death of Pilgrims During Char Yatra 2024

During the 192-day Char Yatra in Uttarakhand in 2024, which includes the high-altitude shrines of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri, unfortunately, 246 pilgrims lost their lives due to health-related issues. The Char Yatra began on 10th May 2024 and is set to end on 17th November 2024.

According to data from the Uttarakhand government, more than 47,03,905 pilgrims participated in the Char Yatra in 2024. In comparison, the number of deaths in 2023 exceeded 230, and in 2022, it was over 300.

Helicopter Travel and Health Risks

• A high death rate was observed among pilgrims using helicopters to reach the Kedarnath shrine.
• Rapid ascent to high altitudes (around 3,000 meters. without proper acclimatisation increases health risks.
• Oxygen levels at all Char Dham shrines can result in altitude sickness, which may become serious if not treated quickly.
• Challenges include inadequate accommodation, crowded trails, extreme weather conditions, and insufficient health screenings.

Economic Impact of the Char Yatra

• The Yatra generates about Rs 7,500 crore each year, significantly contributing to Uttarakhand’s economy.
• It provides direct and indirect jobs for over 10 lakh people, including hotel staff, guides, taxi drivers, priests, mule operators, porters, and others in tourism and handicrafts.

Criticism and Concerns

• Despite the State mandating health check-ups for pilgrims this year, the high death rate has raised serious concerns.
• Think tanks like NITI Aayog have repeatedly emphasised the need for sustainable tourism practices in the Indian Himalayan region, urging the State to follow these guidelines.

Yamunotri Dham

• Location: Uttarkashi district.
• Dedicated to: Goddess Yamuna.
• The River Yamuna is the second-most sacred river in India after the 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.
• Located on the banks of the Mandakini River.
• One of the 12 Jyotirlingas (sacred representations of Lord Shiva) in India.

Badrinath Dham

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

Millimeter Wave Transceiver

Recently, the Center for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) entered into an agreement with the Indian Institute of Technology-Roorkee (IIT-Roorkee) to develop a Millimeter Wave Transceiver specifically for 5G rural connectivity.

Millimeter Wave Backhaul Technology Project:

• The project aims to develop millimeter wave backhaul technology to improve 5G connectivity, particularly in rural areas.
• A limited number of small cell-based stations (SBSs) will connect to the network gateway via fibre, reducing infrastructure requirements.
• The transceiver will utilize a combination of optical and millimeter wave methods.
• This development is expected to decrease both the size and cost of the technology, making it more efficient and affordable.
• The goal is to reduce India's reliance on foreign semiconductor manufacturing, enhancing self-reliance.
• The project will contribute to generating Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) and developing a skilled workforce in millimeter wave and Sub-THz technology, preparing for advancements in 5G and 6G.

Support for Local Industry and Employment:

• The project promotes small and medium-sized enterprises to establish manufacturing units in India, especially in polymer-based and metal-integrated structures.
• Increased local manufacturing will create job opportunities for Indian engineering graduates.

Funding Support under TTDF Scheme:

• The agreement is made under the Department of Telecommunications’ Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) scheme.
• TTDF aims to fund Indian startups, academic institutions, and R&D centres to encourage domestic development and commercialisation of telecom solutions.

About:

• This technology involves the use of high-frequency radio waves for wireless communication.
• Millimeter waves operate within a frequency range of 30–300 GHz and a wavelength range of 1–10 millimetres.

Uses:

• 5G: Millimeter waves are utilized in 5G to deliver high-speed, wide bandwidth communications.
• Explosive detection: These waves can penetrate clothing and reflect off the body, allowing imaging systems to detect concealed objects.
• Other applications: Millimeter waves can be employed for business and residential broadband access, campus networks, outdoor Wi-Fi hotspots, and more.

Center for Development of Telematics (C-DOT)

• C-DOT was set up in 1984 as an autonomous Telecom R&D centre under the Department of Telecom (DoT), Ministry of Communications.
• It is a registered society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.
• C-DOT is recognized as a public-funded research institution by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), Ministry of Science and Technology.

Uttarakhand Livability Improvement Project

Recently, the Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a USD 200 million loan to improve urban services in Uttarakhand, such as water supply, sanitation, and urban mobility. The European Investment Bank is also supporting the project with a USD 191 million investment to further enhance urban infrastructure.

Objectives of the Project:

The project aligns with India’s urban development plans and Uttarakhand’s aims to improve urban services, focusing on:

• Enhancing livability and sustainability in cities.
• Building infrastructure that can withstand climate and disaster risks, protecting the population from floods and landslides.

Initiatives Included under the Project:

Key upgrades in Haldwani, the economic hub of Uttarakhand, include:

• Developing climate-resilient roads and an intelligent traffic management system.
• Introducing CNG buses and piloting electric buses.
• Constructing stormwater and roadside drains, along with an early warning system for flood resilience.
• Establishing a green-certified administrative complex and bus terminal to improve public service delivery.

Water Supply and Sanitation Improvements in Four Cities:

In Champawat, Kichha, Kotdwar, and Vikasnagar, the project aims to:

• Achieve 100% water service coverage by installing climate-resilient pipelines, tubewells, new reservoirs, and a water treatment plant.
• Increase sanitation coverage through sewage treatment facilities.

Women’s Empowerment and Livelihood Opportunities:

The project will provide skill training for women, focusing on:

• Bus driving, ticketing, and managing electric charging stations.
• Training women from vulnerable households to operate and manage water and sanitation services.

Asian Development Bank (ADB)

The ADB is a multilateral development bank founded in 1966, based in Manila, Philippines, with a mission to promote economic growth and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific Region. It has 69 members and is governed by a board of governors, funded through member contributions, retained earnings from lending, and loan repayments.

European Investment Bank (EIB)

Established in 1958, it serves as the lending arm of the European Union and is one of the largest multilateral financial institutions globally, also a major provider of climate finance. Since 1993, the EIB has been backing India’s green initiatives by investing in sustainable urban transport and renewable energy.

Outbreak of HIV in a Village in Uttarakhand

Recently, an outbreak of HIV has been reported in Ramnagar, Nainital, drawing attention to the problems associated with drug addiction and unprotected sexual activities.

Spread of HIV

• More than 19 men in Ramnagar have tested positive for HIV as a result of unprotected sexual interactions.
• Authorities are emphasizing this situation as a crucial reminder for enhanced community health awareness and vigilance.

HIV Statistics in India

• As of 2022, approximately 2.47 million people in India are living with HIV, with an adult prevalence rate of 0.2%.
• Since 2010, new infections have decreased by over 42%, and AIDS-related deaths have fallen by nearly 77%.

Government Initiatives

• The National AIDS and STI Control Programme (2021-2025) in India is primarily funded domestically and focuses on prevention, testing, and treatment of HIV and STIs.
• The Ministry of Social Justice in India operates a national helpline to support individuals dealing with addiction and substance-related issues.

Understanding HIV

• HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically targeting and damaging CD4 immune cells.
• These cells are essential for fighting off infections and diseases. Over time, HIV weakens the immune system, making the body more vulnerable to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.

How HIV is Spread

• HIV is mainly spread through the exchange of specific bodily fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk.

Severity of HIV

• If left untreated, HIV can severely damage a person’s immune system, leading to the stage known as Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). At this stage, various opportunistic infections can occur, which can be life-threatening.

Treatment for HIV

• While there is currently no cure for HIV, the condition can be effectively managed with antiretroviral therapy.
• These medications work by suppressing the replication of the virus in the body, allowing the number of CD4 immune cells to increase and recover.

Seeking Refuge in Uttarakhand to Avoid Diwali Pollution

Due to the deteriorating air quality in the National Capital Region (NCR), many residents are opting to celebrate Diwali in Uttarakhand, where the air is cleaner and healthier.

Increase in Tourist Bookings:

• Residents of NCR are increasingly reserving hotels and homestays in Uttarakhand, particularly in regions like Dehradun, Nainital, and Mussoorie, to escape the pollution.
• During Diwali, Uttarakhand’s relatively low pollution levels make it an attractive destination compared to the smoggy skies of the NCR.
• Families, especially those with elderly members and children, are prioritizing the need to avoid the health risks associated with high pollution levels in urban areas.
• This influx of tourists is benefiting Uttarakhand’s tourism economy, leading to increased demand for accommodations and local services.

UTTARAKHAND’S DIWALI GIFT

Recently, Uttarakhand has made a festive announcement to increase the Dearness Allowance (DA) for state government employees as a Diwali bonus.

DA HIKE

• Uttarakhand has raised the DA for government employees from 50% to 53% on a monthly basis to help alleviate the impact of inflation on household expenses.
• This increase applies to all regular and full-time state employees, as well as UGC -affiliated officials, retroactive from 1st July 2023. Arrears from July to September 2024 will be payable in cash.
• The enhanced DA is effective immediately, covering employees and pensioners under the state government.

Economic Impact

• The DA increase aims to support employees’ purchasing power, especially during the festive season when expenses tend to rise.
• Similar DA adjustments are being observed in other states as they strive to provide financial relief in response to the escalating cost of living.
• This adjustment serves as a cost-of-living measure to offset inflation, calculated as a percentage of the basic salary for government employees and pensioners.