1. Melanochlamys droupadi (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Env and Eco)

Context: The Zoological Survey of India named a new marine species of head-shield sea slug with ruby red spot which was discovered from West Bengal and Odisha coast after President of India.

Zoological Survey of India (ZSI)

• About: It is India’s apex organization on animal taxonomy.
• Establishment: 1916 
• Headquarters: Kolkata
• Objective: To promote survey, exploration, research and documentation on various aspects of animal taxonomy in the Indian subcontinent.

Melanochlamys droupadi

• About: The species Melanochlamys droupadi was discovered in Digha, West Bengal coast, and Udaipur, Odisha coast.
• Characteristics: Species of the genus Melanochlamys are identified by their short, blunt, and cylindrical bodies.

oThey possess a smooth dorsal surface with two dorsal shields, namely the anterior cephalic and posterior shield.

• Physical Features: 

oMelanochlamys droupadi is a small invertebrate, reaching a maximum length of 7 mm.

oIt exhibits a brownish-black coloration with a ruby red spot at the hind end.

oThe species carries a shell within its body and is hermaphroditic in nature.

oTypically found crawling on intertidal zones, leaving distinct crawl marks on sandy beaches.

• Reproduction: It appears to occur between November and January.
• Habitat: The species was found near Hospital Ghat, Old Digha, merely 50 meters from the Marine Aquarium Regional Centre, Zoological Survey of India.

oType specimens were deposited in Marine Aquarium and Regional Centre, Digha, and Estuarine Biology and Regional Centre, Gopalpur.

• Distribution Patterns: Melanochlamys species are predominantly distributed in temperate regions of the Indo-Pacific Oceanic realm.

oNotably, three species, including Melanochlamys droupadi, are truly tropical in distribution, with Melanochlamys papillata from the Gulf of Thailand and Melanochlamys bengalensis from the West Bengal and Odisha coast.

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2. HOMOSEXUALITY IN NATURAL KINGDOM (Syllabus GS Paper 3 – Sci and Tech)

Context: A newly published study in the journal Marine Mammal Science recently confirmed the sighting described as the sexual encounter.

Homosexuality in the Natural Kingdom

• Occurrence: Homosexuality is not uncommon in the natural kingdom, as evidenced by its incidence in "over 1500 animal species."
• Diverse Range of Species: Reports of homosexuality span from tiny insects and spiders to reptiles, birds, and mammals, demonstrating its presence across a diverse range of taxa.
• Both Genders and Environments: Homosexuality has been observed in both males and females of various species, occurring in both captive and wild environments.

A Darwinian Paradox

• Nature of Genetic Markers: A 2019 study in Nature identified five genetic markers significantly associated with same-sex behavior in humans, indicating a genetic influence on sexual orientation.
• Evolutionary Theory: Charles Darwin's theory of evolution emphasizes reproduction as the ultimate goal of organisms. Same-sex behavior seemingly contradicts this principle, diverting resources away from reproduction.
• Failure of Natural Selection: According to Darwin's theory, traits that do not contribute to reproductive success should be eliminated by natural selection. However, homosexuality persists, challenging traditional evolutionary explanations.

The ‘indiscriminate mating’ hypothesis

• Ancestral mating behavior: The hypothesis suggests that ancestral animal species engaged in indiscriminate mating without regard to sex due to the simultaneous evolution of sexual behaviors and mate recognition traits.
• Unlikelihood of concurrent trait evolution: The hypothesis posits that it's improbable for traits necessary for recognizing compatible mates to have evolved precisely at the same time as sexual behaviors, leading to indiscriminate mating.

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3. KULASEKARAPATTINAM SPACEPORT (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Sci and Tech)

Context: The Prime Minister recently laid the foundation stone for a new spaceport at Kulasekarapattinam in southern Tamil Nadu.

Kulasekarapattinam Spaceport

• About: Kulasekarapattinam, nestled near Tiruchendur in Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu, is set to host a new spaceport, augmenting the country's launch capabilities.
• Second Spaceport in India: Following the footsteps of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, founded in 1971, this new spaceport will mark India's second major facility for space launches.
• Focus: The spaceport will specialize in the launch of SSLVs, catering to commercial demands in the satellite launch market.
• Facilities and Infrastructure: With 35 integrated facilities, including launch pads, rocket integration facilities, and ground range and checkout facilities, the spaceport is poised to support a robust space launch program.
• Notably, it will feature a mobile launch structure (MLS) equipped with checkout computers for efficient launches.
• Launch Capacity: The spaceport aims to launch up to 24 satellites annually, facilitated by its advanced infrastructure and operational capabilities.
• Geographical Advantage: Spanning 2,350 acres, the Kulasekharapatnam spaceport enjoys a strategic advantage: it can launch rockets directly south over the Indian Ocean, thus reducing fuel requirements compared to polar orbits necessitated by Sriharikota's geography.
• Cost Estimation: The project is estimated to cost Rs. 986 crore, reflecting the government's commitment to advancing India's space exploration endeavors.

Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)

• Number of Stages: Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) is a 3 stage Launch Vehicle configured with three Solid Propulsion Stages and liquid propulsion-based Velocity Trimming Module (VTM) as a terminal stage. 
• Payload: SSLV is capable of launching 500kg satellite in 500km planar orbit. 
• key benefits of SSLV: SSLV have Low cost, with low turn-around time, flexibility in accommodating multiple satellites, Launch on demand feasibility, minimal launch infrastructure requirements, etc.

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4. INTERNATIONAL BIG CAT ALLIANCE (IBCA) (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Env & Eco)

Context: The Union Cabinet formally announced the establishment of International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) with one-time budgetary support of Rs 150 crore from the central government until 2028.

International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

• Formation of IBCA: The Centre envisions the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) as a comprehensive coalition involving 96 big cat range countries, non-range countries, conservation partners, scientific organizations, and business groups.
• Aim: To create a centralized repository of successful conservation practices and personnel, supported by financial resources. 

oThis platform will be utilized to strengthen the global conservation agenda and counter the decline in big cat populations.

• Multipronged Approach: The alliance will adopt a multipronged approach, focusing on broadening its base and establishing linkages in various areas. This includes knowledge sharing, capacity building, networking, advocacy, financial support, research, technical assistance, education, and awareness.
• Climate Change Mitigation: IBCA commits to working towards mitigating the adverse effects of climate change on big cat habitats. 
• Organizational Structure: The structure of IBCA will include an Assembly of Members, Standing Committee, and a Secretariat.

oThe headquarters of the alliance will be based in India, facilitating coordination and collaboration among member countries.

Big Cat:

• About: It  is a term that is used in informal speech to apply to any large species of the family Felidae. 
• Members of the Genus Panthera: Big Cats commonly include the Tiger (Panthera tigris), Lion (Panthera leo), Jaguar (Panthera onca), Leopard (Panthera pardus), and Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia).
• Other Notable Cats: Puma (Puma concolor) and Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) are not part of Panthera but are often included in most lists of Big Cats.

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5. NCBC (Syllabus: GS Paper 2 – Polity)

Context: The National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) has raised serious objections to the West Bengal government’s recommendation to include 83 castes in the central list of Other Backward Classes (OBCs).

National Commission for Backward Classes

• Establishment: The NCBC was initially constituted by the Central Government through the National Commission for Backward Classes Act, 1993.
• Constitutional Status Granted: The NCBC gained constitutional status via “The Constitution (One Hundred and Second Amendment) Act, 2018”, which introduced Article 338B.

oThis amendment also added Article 342A and Clause 26C to Article 366.

• Composition: The Commission is comprised of a Chairperson, a Vice-Chairperson, and three other Members, all holding the rank and pay equivalent to that of Secretary to the Government of India.
• Appointment: The President appoints the Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and other Members of the Commission through a warrant under his hand and seal.
• Functions

oTo examine and monitor all matters relevant to the SEBC's safeguards, as well as to assess the effectiveness of such safeguards.

oTo look into particular issues regarding the SEBC's loss of rights and protections. Reports on how such protections are operating are to be given to the President.

oTo make recommendations for actions that should be done to ensure that safeguards and other measures are implemented effectively for the protection, welfare, and socioeconomic development of SEBC.

oTo take part in, provide advice on, and assess the socioeconomic growth of the educationally and socially disadvantaged classes. 

oThe NCBC has civil court authority.

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6. NEW STUDY ON DROUGHT (Syllabus: GS Paper 1 – Geography)

Context: A new study shows India’s agricultural land exposure to drought would reduce by 21% if the global warming threshold of 1.5 ºC above pre-industrial temperatures is met.

Key Point of Study

• Quantification of Climate Change Risks: A team at UEA analyzed the escalation of climate change risks at a national level as global warming intensifies.
• Vulnerability to Drought: With 3 ºC warming, over 50% of agricultural land in each country may face severe droughts lasting over a year, as revealed by the study.
• Urgent Need for Mitigation Efforts: Existing global policies are insufficient to prevent a 3 ºC temperature rise, underscoring the necessity for enhanced mitigation strategies.
• Multi-Country Risk Assessment: Eight studies, encompassing nations like Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, and India, illustrate heightened risks including droughts, floods, crop yield declines, and biodiversity loss with each degree of warming.
• Synthesis of Findings: A comprehensive overview of climate risks from 1.5 ºC to 4 ºC warming is consolidated in a Climatic Change journal publication, providing insights into global implications.
• Benefits of Limiting Warming to 1.5 ºC: Capping warming at 1.5 ºC could mitigate drought exposure by 21% to 61% in countries like India and Ethiopia while reducing economic losses from floods.

Drought

• About: It refers to a transient decrease in the availability of water or moisture, falling below the typical or anticipated amount for a specific duration.
• Drought Area in India: UP, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal  the major rice-producing states of India  are in the grips of drought in the absence of enough rain.
• Impact of Drought
• Water shortage: By 2050, over three-quarters of the global population, around 4.8-5.7 billion people, may experience water scarcity for at least one month annually, up from the current 3.6 billion.
• Migration: By 2030, an estimated 700 million people worldwide could be displaced due to drought.
• Mortality: Over the past century, drought has claimed over 10 million lives, with 90% of these deaths occurring in developing countries.
• Poverty: Severe droughts have pushed nearly 13 million people in Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Odisha below the poverty line, causing a loss of nearly $400 million during a drought year.
• Agriculture impact: India's predominantly rainfed agriculture, constituting 60% of the sown area on average, is significantly affected.

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7. AGALEGA ISLAND (Syllabus: GS Paper 2 – IR)

Context: Recently, the Prime Minister of India and the Prime Minister of Mauritius jointly inaugurated the new Airstrip and St. James Jetty, along with six community development projects at the Agalega Island in Mauritius, via video conferencing.

Agalega Island

• About: Agaléga consists of two outer islands situated in the Indian Ocean, approximately 1,000 kilometers north of the main Mauritius island.
• Geographic Features: The total land area of Agaléga measures 2,600 hectares (6,400 acres), encompassing diverse natural landscapes and ecosystems.
• Abundance of Coconuts: Renowned for their coconut plantations, Agaléga islands are celebrated for the production and cultivation of coconuts.
• Division: Agaléga is divided into two primary segments: the North Island and the South Island, each offering distinct characteristics and features.
• Settlements: The principal settlements on Agaléga include Vingt Cinq, located on the North Island, and Sainte Rita, situated on the South Island, serving as focal points of community life and activity.

Mauritius

• About: Mauritius is an island country in the Indian Ocean, situated off the eastern coast of Africa.
• Land: It is located about 500 miles (800 km) east of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean.

oMauritius includes outlying territories such as Rodrigues Island, the Cargados Carajos Shoals, and the Agalega Islands at varying distances from the main island.

oThe country also asserts sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago, including Diego Garcia, which is disputed by Britain.

• Relief: The island is of volcanic origin and is predominantly encircled by coral reefs.
• Climate: Mauritius experiences a maritime subtropical climate characterized by relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year.
• Capital: Port Louis.

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8. RAJYA SABHA ELECTION (Syllabus: GS Paper 2 – Polity)

Context: The Rajya Sabha elections in the States of Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Karnataka witnessed cross-voting by MLAs belonging to different parties. This has once again raised concerns about the sanctity of the election process.

Representation in Rajya Sabha Elections

• Article 80: Representatives to the Rajya Sabha are elected indirectly by the elected members of their respective State Legislative Assembly, as per Article 80 of the Constitution.
• Poll Requirement: Polls for the Rajya Sabha are only necessary if the number of candidates exceeds the number of vacancies available.
• Historical Trends: Until 1998, Rajya Sabha elections typically had predictable outcomes with candidates elected unopposed based on party strengths in the Assembly.
• Incident of Cross-Voting: The June 1998 Rajya Sabha elections in Maharashtra witnessed cross-voting, leading to the unexpected loss of a Congress party candidate.
• Open Ballot System: Section 59 of the Act was amended to mandate voting in Rajya Sabha elections through an open ballot system, aimed at curbing cross-voting.

10th Schedule of Constitution

• About: The Tenth Schedule was instituted in response to political instability caused by legislators' defections during the 1960s and 70s, leading to the downfall of elected governments.
• Objective: The 52nd constitutional amendment in 1985 introduced the Tenth Schedule, aiming to ensure stability in elected governments by implementing an 'anti-defection' law.
• Provisions: The Tenth Schedule dictates that members who voluntarily abandon their political party or vote against party instructions in a House face disqualification. Party instructions are issued by the 'whip,' a member of the 'legislature party' appointed by the 'political party.'

Supreme Court's Stand

• Kuldip Nayar vs. Union of India, 2006: The Supreme Court endorsed the system of open ballot for Rajya Sabha elections, highlighting transparency as a deterrent to corruption.

oElected MLAs voting against their party candidate won't face disqualification under the Tenth Schedule, but may face disciplinary action from their party.

• Ravi S. Naik and Sanjay Bandekar vs. Union of India, 1994: The act of voluntarily giving up membership under the Tenth Schedule extends beyond formal resignation and includes the member's conduct both inside and outside the house.

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9. INDIA'S LEOPARD POPULATION  (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Env and Eco)

Context: The Prime Minister of India expressed his happiness over increased population of Leopards in India.

India's Leopard Population 

• Overall Leopard Population: India's estimated leopard population rose from 12,852 in 2018 to 13,874 in 2022, reflecting a positive trend in conservation efforts.
• Highest Numbers: Madhya Pradesh has the maximum number of leopards in the country, with 3,907 recorded in 2022, up from 3,421 in 2018.
• Numbers Across States: Maharashtra witnessed an increase from 1,690 leopards in 2018 to 1,985 in 2022.

oKarnataka saw a rise from 1,783 to 1,879 leopards during the same period.

oTamil Nadu experienced growth from 868 to 1,070 leopards.

• Regional Population Trends: Central India demonstrated a stable or slightly growing leopard population, reaching 8,820 in 2022 compared to 8,071 in 2018.
• However, the Shivalik hills and the Indo-Gangetic Plains experienced a decline from 1,253 in 2018 to 1,109 in 2022.
• Leopard Distribution: In Madhya Pradesh, leopard occupancy increased in the Chambal and Bundelkhand regions but slightly declined in the Chhindwara forests.

oPanna Tiger Reserve and Kuno National Park exhibit high leopard densities, contributing significantly to the state's leopard population.

• Conservation Challenges: Effective vigilance is crucial to address both targeted and unintentional poaching in Madhya Pradesh.
• The coexistence of leopards and tigers in Madhya Pradesh, particularly in tiger reserves like Satpura, Bandhavgarh, Pench, and Kanha, underscores successful conservation strategies.

Indian Leopard

• About: The Indian leopard thrives in diverse habitats, including tropical rainforests, temperate deciduous forests, alpine coniferous forests, dry scrubs, and grasslands.
• Habitat: In India, the leopard is found in all forest types, from tropical rainforests to temperate deciduous and alpine coniferous forests.
• Distribution Patterns: Central India and the Eastern Ghats.
• Conservation Status:

oIUCN Red List: Vulnerable

oCITES: Appendix I

oWildlife (Protection) Act,1972: Schedule I

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10. SINGLE USE PLASTIC (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Env and Eco)

Context: On June 5, 2018, to mark the World Environment Day, Prime Minister of India  announced that India would phase out single-use plastics by 2022. 

Single-Use Plastic

• About: It pertains to single-use plastic items that are utilized once and then disposed of, such as packaging materials, bottles (for shampoo, detergents, cosmetics), polyethylene bags, face masks, coffee cups, cling film, garbage bags, food packaging, and more.

The Impact of Single-Use Plastics

• Global Plastic Production and Waste: Single-use plastics constitute a significant portion of global plastic production, with a third of all plastics produced worldwide attributed to single-use items.

o98% of single-use plastics are manufactured from fossil fuels, exacerbating environmental concerns.

• Environmental Consequences: The majority of plastic waste, totalling 130 million metric tonnes globally in 2019, ends up being incinerated, buried in landfills, or discarded directly into the environment.
• Projections for Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Current production trends indicate that single-use plastics could contribute to 5-10% of greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, exacerbating climate change.
• India's Contribution to Plastic Waste: India ranks among the top 100 countries in single-use plastic waste generation, with an annual domestic production of 11.8 million metric tonnes.

Items Banned and Regulatory Measures

• Banned Items: The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has announced a ban on various single-use plastic items, including earbuds, candy sticks, cutlery, sweet boxes, and PVC banners.
• Compliance and Enforcement: Manufacturers are required to transition to thicker polythene bags for compliance, necessitating machinery upgrades.

oThe Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, also enforce a complete ban on sachets for storing gutkha, tobacco, and pan masala.

Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2021

• Scope of Ban: The manufacture, import, stocking, distribution, sale, and use of identified single-use plastics will be prohibited starting from July 1, 2022.
• Exemption for Compostable Plastics: The ban excludes commodities made of compostable plastic, allowing their continued use.
• Plastic Bag Thickness Regulations: The permitted thickness of plastic bags will be increased to 75 microns from September 30, 2021, and to 120 microns from December 31, 2022.

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