Dam failures are always catastrophic, especially on the downstream side, resulting in a colossal loss of life and property. Analyse the various causes of dam failures. Give two examples of large dam failures.

Points to Remember: Join Our Telegram Channel Dam failures are catastrophic events with devastating consequences. Multiple factors contribute to dam failures, often interacting in complex ways. Prevention requires rigorous design, construction, maintenance, and monitoring. Examples of past failures highlight the importance of learning from mistakes. Introduction: Dam failures are undeniably catastrophic events, resulting in immense … Read more

Enumerate the National Water Policy of India. Taking river Ganges as an example, discuss the strategies which may be adopted for river water pollution control and management. What are the legal provisions of management and handling of hazardous wastes in India?

Points to Remember: National Water Policy of India’s key principles: conservation, equitable distribution, participatory management. Ganga River pollution: sources, impacts, and control strategies (e.g., Namami Gange). Hazardous waste management in India: legal framework (Environment Protection Act, 1986; rules and regulations), challenges, and improvements needed. Introduction: India’s National Water Policy (NWP), first formulated in 1987 and … Read more

Should the pursuit of carbon credits and clean development mechanisms set up under UNFCCC be maintained even though there has been a massive slide in the value of a carbon credit? Discuss with respect to India’s energy needs for economic growth.

Points to Remember: The value of carbon credits has significantly decreased. India’s energy needs are substantial for economic growth. The UNFCCC’s Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) and carbon credit system aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability is crucial. Introduction: The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) established carbon … Read more

Discuss the Namami Gange and National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) programmes and causes of mixed results from the previous schemes. What quantum leaps can help preserve the river Ganga better than incremental inputs?

Points to Remember: Namami Gange and National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) are flagship programs aimed at rejuvenating the Ganga river. Previous schemes yielded mixed results due to various factors including lack of coordination, inadequate funding, and insufficient community participation. Quantum leaps are needed to achieve significant improvements in Ganga’s health, requiring a holistic and … Read more

Environmental Impact Assessment studies are increasingly undertaken before a project is cleared by the Government. Discuss the environmental impacts of coal-fired thermal plants located at coal pitheads.

Points to Remember: Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a crucial process for mitigating environmental damage from projects. Coal-fired thermal plants, especially those located at coal pitheads, have significant environmental impacts. These impacts span air, water, and land pollution, impacting human health and ecosystems. Mitigation strategies and sustainable alternatives are crucial for minimizing negative consequences. Introduction: … Read more

What are the consequences of Illegal mining? Discuss the Ministry of Environment and Forest’s concept of GO AND NO-GO zones for coal mining sector.

Points to Remember: Environmental degradation Social disruption Economic losses Health hazards Legal ramifications GO and No-Go zones for regulated mining Introduction: Illegal mining, the extraction of minerals without the necessary permits or licenses, poses a significant threat to environmental sustainability, social stability, and economic development. It undermines legitimate mining operations, deprives governments of revenue, and … Read more

Rehabilitation of human settlements is one of the important environmental impacts which always attracts controversy while planning major projects. Discuss the measures suggested from mitigation of this impact while proposing major developmental projects.

Points to Remember: Keywords: Rehabilitation of human settlements, environmental impact, mitigation measures, major developmental projects, controversy. Approach: Primarily analytical, with elements of factual reporting and policy recommendation. Introduction: Rehabilitation of human settlements displaced by major developmental projects is a critical environmental and social issue. Large-scale projects like dams, mines, highways, and industrial complexes often necessitate … Read more

Not many years ago,river linking was a concept but it is becoming reality in the country. Discuss the advantages of river linking and its possible impact on the environment.

Points to Remember: River linking projects aim to transfer surplus water from water-rich basins to water-deficient basins. Advantages include improved irrigation, drinking water supply, and flood control. Environmental impacts include changes in river ecosystems, biodiversity loss, and potential salinity issues. A balanced approach is crucial, considering both benefits and drawbacks. Introduction: River linking, the inter-basin … Read more

How does biodiversity vary in India? How is the Biological Diversity Act,2002 helpful in conservation of flora and fauna?

Points to Remember: Join Our Telegram Channel India’s biodiversity is exceptionally rich due to its varied climates and geographical features. Biodiversity varies significantly across different regions of India. The Biological Diversity Act, 2002, aims to conserve, sustainably use, and share the benefits of biological resources. The Act establishes mechanisms for access and benefit-sharing (ABS). Introduction: … Read more

Sikkim is the first ‘Organic State’ in India. What are the ecological and economic benefits of Organic State?

Points to Remember: Sikkim’s organic farming transition. Ecological benefits (soil health, biodiversity, water quality). Economic benefits (premium prices, market access, tourism). Challenges in maintaining organic status. Policy implications and future prospects. Introduction: Sikkim, a small Himalayan state in India, achieved the remarkable feat of becoming India’s first fully organic state in 2016. This involved a … Read more