The recent 8.8-magnitude earthquake near Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula highlights the devastating potential of tsunamis, which can ripple across vast distances and impact coastal regions worldwide.

About Tsunamis:

1. What is a Tsunami?

   • A tsunami is a series of waves caused by the displacement of water usually from a major earthquake below or near the ocean. These waves can travel across entire ocean basins, affecting regions far from the initial point of impact.

   • The term tsunami comes from the Japanese words "tsu" (harbor) and "nami" (wave), reflecting the waves’ devastating effects on coastal areas.

   Causes of Tsunamis:

   • The majority of tsunamis are triggered by earthquakes about 80% of all recorded tsunamis.

   • Other causes can include underwater volcanic activity, landslides, and, more rarely, meteorites.

   • However, not all earthquakes cause tsunamis. To generate a tsunami, the earthquake must be strong (at least 6.5 magnitude) and occur at a shallow depth (less than 70 km from the Earth’s surface), causing a vertical displacement of the seafloor.

   How Tsunamis Travel:

   • Tsunamis radiate outward in all directions, traveling across ocean basins, around islands, and into rivers and bays.

   • In deep ocean waters, tsunami waves may not be noticeable. They move quickly up to 950 km per hour (about the speed of a jet plane) and have relatively small heights (usually less than a meter).

   • As the waves approach the coast, the depth of the ocean decreases, causing the waves to increase in height, sometimes reaching 30 meters (98 feet). This is why tsunamis can be so deadly when they hit coastal regions.

   How to Recognize an Approaching Tsunami:

   • Tsunamis are difficult to predict, but there are some telltale signs. One of the most obvious indicators is the retreat of water from the shoreline, which occurs before the waves arrive. This is actually the trough of the tsunami wave, and it serves as a warning that the larger waves are approaching.

   • Coastal communities are often advised to evacuate if they notice such a retreat or receive official warnings.

The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has taken decisive action against the illegal encroachments along the Musi River bed, a critical step in safeguarding the river and surrounding ecosystems from further degradation.

About Musi River:

The Musi River, a major tributary of the Krishna River, flows through Telangana, specifically cutting through the city of Hyderabad. It plays a significant role in the region’s hydrology, agriculture, and urban water supply.

1. Source and Course:

   • Source: The river originates in the Anantagiri Hills in Vikarabad district, Telangana.

   • It is formed by the confluence of two small rivulets: Esi (8 km) and Musa (13 km).

   • The river flows in an eastward direction, passing through Hyderabad, where it historically marked the divide between the Old City and New City.

   • It eventually travels through parts of the Rangareddy and Nalgonda districts, continuing its course until it joins the Krishna River near Wazirabad in Nalgonda.

   Length:

   • The Musi River spans approximately 240 kilometers in total length.

   Dams and Irrigation:

   • Himayat Sagar and Osman Sagar are the two major dams constructed on the river, providing water for irrigation and drinking purposes, especially for Hyderabad and its surrounding areas.

   • The river also has 24 diversion weirs (locally known as kathwas), which help with irrigation, though the quality of water is heavily polluted due to waste from urban areas.

   Pollution and Encroachments:

   • The river has suffered from severe pollution due to industrial waste, sewage, and illegal encroachments. This pollution affects the irrigation and drinking water supplied to villages downstream, as the river is highly contaminated.

   • The illegal encroachments into the river bed have exacerbated the issue, leading to reduced water flow and damaging the river's natural ecosystem.

HYDRAA’s Action Against Encroachments:

• The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has recently taken strong measures to combat illegal encroachments along the Musi River bed. These encroachments are not just illegal constructions but also contribute to the worsening of pollution and disrupt the natural flow of the river.

• By cracking down on these activities, HYDRAA aims to restore the river's course and protect its ecosystem, ensuring that the river can continue to serve the people of Hyderabad and surrounding areas.

Importance of Protecting the Musi River:

1. Environmental Impact:

   • Protecting the Musi River is critical for preserving the local ecosystem. The river provides vital habitats for aquatic life and sustains a variety of plant and animal species.

   • The contamination from illegal encroachments and industrial waste harms these ecosystems, as well as water quality for the population.

   Urban Impact:

   • The Musi River plays an essential role in urban planning and water management in Hyderabad, providing both irrigation and drinking water.

   • Pollution not only compromises water quality but also poses long-term public health risks.

   Flood Management:

   • The river also serves as an important natural flood control mechanism. Encroachments that obstruct the river bed could exacerbate flooding risks during heavy rains or monsoon seasons, leading to damage to property and displacement of residents.

   • By removing encroachments, HYDRAA is also contributing to flood mitigation and better management of stormwater.

   Restoring Heritage:

   • The Musi River holds historical and cultural significance for Hyderabad. It has historically divided the Old City from the New City, and restoring the river's natural flow will help preserve the city's heritage.

The recent IMF data showing that India has surpassed Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy by nominal GDP (using Market Exchange Rates, or MER) is a significant milestone. However, this ranking varies when considering Purchasing Power Parity (PPP), where India has held the position of the third-largest economy since 2009.

Understanding GDP and India’s Economic Rank

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is a crucial economic indicator that reflects the total value of all goods and services produced within a nation’s borders during a specific period. It helps policymakers, economists, and governments evaluate economic growth, design policies, and make international comparisons.

India’s GDP Ranking: MER vs. PPP Methods

India’s GDP rank varies significantly based on whether it is measured using Market Exchange Rates (MER) or Purchasing Power Parity (PPP).

1. Market Exchange Rates (MER):

   • Definition: Converts a country’s GDP into US dollars using current exchange rates. This method reflects the global financial market value of a country’s economy.

   • Pros:

     • Reflects the economy’s size in global financial markets.

     • Useful for foreign exchange transactions and international comparisons.

     • Standardized measurement for economic comparison.

   • Cons:

     • Exchange rate fluctuations can make the data volatile, especially in emerging markets.

     • It does not account for cost-of-living differences between countries.

     • Can be misleading when comparing economies with large disparities in living costs.

     • Volatility in exchange rates can distort the actual size of the economy in real terms.

2. Purchasing Power Parity (PPP):

   • Definition: Adjusts GDP based on the relative cost of living and price levels in different countries. It provides a more accurate measure of a country’s economic strength, reflecting the real purchasing power of its citizens.

   • Pros:

     • Accounts for cost-of-living differences between countries.

     • Better for long-term comparisons, as it reflects real economic productivity.

     • A more accurate measure of economic well-being, as it shows what people can actually buy with their incomes.

   • Cons:

     • Less relevant for international trade and global market analysis.

     • Data collection challenges can lead to discrepancies in the calculations.

     • Can overestimate economic strength in countries with a large informal sector or unpaid labor force.

India’s Per Capita GDP and Global Comparison

• India’s per capita GDP in 2024, using market exchange rates, is $2,711, ranking 144th globally.

• In comparison, Vietnam, which was behind India in 1991, has a per capita GDP of $4,536 in 2024.

• Even under PPP, India’s per capita GDP ranks 127th globally, which is still relatively low compared to more developed nations.

Key Drivers of Economic Growth in India:

Several factors contribute to India’s economic expansion, even as the country faces challenges related to income inequality and infrastructure development:

1. Demographic Advantage:

   • India has a young and growing workforce, which is expected to contribute significantly to the nation’s growth in the coming decades. A large labor force can support higher productivity, but challenges in employment generation remain.

2. Technological Innovation:

   • India has made significant strides in digital transformation and innovation, with a booming tech sector that drives productivity and economic growth.

3. Infrastructure Development:

   • There has been increased investment in infrastructure, including roads, railways, and urban expansion, all of which help build a more robust economic foundation.

4. Global Trade and Manufacturing:

   • India is actively working to become a manufacturing hub, attracting foreign direct investments (FDI) and bolstering exports. Initiatives like the Make in India program are key to this transformation.

Challenges Facing India’s Economy:

Despite its impressive growth, India faces several hurdles that could affect its long-term prosperity:

1. Income Inequality:

   • Economic progress has not been evenly distributed. Wealth disparities and unequal access to resources continue to be pressing issues, limiting the benefits of growth for large segments of the population.

2. Employment, Health, and Education:

   • While GDP growth is strong, the rate of job creation has not kept pace. This has raised concerns about the sustainability of growth, especially when considering the country’s high population.

   • The health and education systems also face significant challenges, with disparities in access to quality services.

3. Policy Reforms:

   • To maintain its growth momentum and address vulnerabilities, India needs continued structural reforms in sectors like labor, land, and taxation. These reforms are crucial for fostering a more inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

Way Forward

• There is a growing need to look beyond traditional GDP metrics to get a fuller picture of development. Indicators such as:

  • Health outcomes

  • Educational attainment

  • Access to basic services

  • Income equality

  • Quality of employment

  These factors are essential for understanding the true well-being of a population and addressing challenges that GDP alone might not capture.

Conclusion:

While both MER and PPP are valuable tools for assessing India’s economy, PPP is often seen as a more accurate reflection of economic well-being, especially when considering the cost of living and the real purchasing power of individuals in India. However, MER is still crucial for understanding India’s position in global trade and financial markets.

The Odisha government has announced plans to introduce tigers to the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary in Bargarh district, according to a recent statement by a senior official from the state's forest department.

About Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary:

Located in the Bargarh district of Odisha, near the Hirakud Dam on the Mahanadi River, Debrigarh is one of the most renowned wildlife sanctuaries in the region. It spans 347 square kilometers and was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1985.

• Historical Significance: The sanctuary is historically significant as it was associated with Veer Surendra Sai, a prominent freedom fighter. During his rebellion against the British, his base at Barapathara was located within the sanctuary.

• Vegetation: The sanctuary is predominantly covered with mixed and dry deciduous forests.

• Flora:

  • Major trees found in this sanctuary include Sal, Asana, Bija, Aanla, and Dhaura.

• Fauna:

  • The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Notable animal species include:

    • Indian Leopards

      Sloth Bears

      Chousingha (four-horned antelope)

      Sambar Deer

      Gaurs (Indian bison)

      Wild Boars

      Indian Wild Dogs (Dholes)

  • Birdlife: The sanctuary is also one of the most important wintering grounds for migratory birds. Some of the prominent bird species found here include:

    • Crested Serpent Eagle

      Flower Peckers

      Red-Vented Bulbul

      Tree Pie

      Drongo

      White-Eye Oriental

The European Commission has introduced a new “cascade” system for Indian travelers with a clean visa history, providing them with fast-tracked access to long-term Schengen visas.

About Schengen Visa:

A Schengen visa allows non-EU nationals to temporarily visit or transit through the Schengen Area, which comprises 29 European countries. These countries have agreed to remove internal borders, allowing for unrestricted movement between them.

• Validity:

  • The visa is typically valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

  • You can enter and leave the area multiple times, but the total stay must not exceed 90 days within the 180-day period.

  Visa Purposes: Schengen visas are issued for various purposes, such as:

  • Tourism

  • Business

  • Visiting family

  • Medical treatment

  • Cultural or sporting events

  Note: The visa does not grant the right to work.

Countries Issuing Schengen Visas:

There are 29 European countries in the Schengen Area, including:

• 25 EU member states (excluding Cyprus and Ireland)

• 4 non-EU countries: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland

The Cascade Visa Scheme:

This new scheme rewards "trusted travellers" based on their documented travel history. It offers the following benefits to Indian nationals with a clean visa history:

• Eligibility:

  • Indian travelers who have obtained two Schengen visas within the past three years are eligible.

  Tiered Visa Structure:

  • 1-year visa: If the traveler has used three Schengen visas in the previous two years.

  • 2-year visa: If the traveler has used a 1-year multiple-entry visa in the previous two years.

  • 5-year visa: If the traveler has used a 2-year multiple-entry visa in the previous three years.

  Travel Benefits:

  • These visas allow holders to travel freely within the Schengen area during their validity, offering travel rights similar to visa-free nationals.

  • However, the visa still restricts stays to 90 days within a 180-day period and does not grant the right to work.

The cascade visa system aims to streamline and reward frequent travelers, allowing for more flexibility and longer visa durations for trusted individuals.

The Union Cabinet’s approval of the “Grant in Aid to National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC)” scheme is a crucial step to boost India’s cooperative sector, ensuring that cooperatives are able to expand and modernize their operations with necessary financial support.

Details of the Grant-in-Aid Scheme:

1. Financial Outlay:

   • The scheme has an outlay of ₹2,000 crore over four years (from FY 2025-26 to FY 2028-29), with ₹500 crore allocated each year.

   • The ₹2,000 crore grant will be sourced from the Government of India’s budgetary support.

   Market Raising Potential:

   • With the ₹2,000 crore grant, the NCDC will be able to raise up to ₹20,000 crore in loans from the open market, which will be used to finance cooperatives.

   Purpose:

   • The primary use of the funds is to provide loans to cooperatives to help them:

     • Set up new projects.

     • Expand existing plants.

     • Meet their working capital requirements.

   Target Sectors:

   • Cooperatives across various sectors are set to benefit, including:

     • Dairy

     • Livestock

     • Fisheries

     • Sugar

     • Textile

     • Food Processing

     • Storage and Cold Storage

     • Labour and Women-led cooperatives.

   • Around 2.9 crore members from 13,288 cooperative societies will benefit from this initiative.

   Implementation Strategy:

   • NCDC will be the executing agency responsible for:

     • Disbursing the loans.

     • Monitoring project implementation.

     • Recovering the disbursed loans.

   • Cooperatives will receive loans either directly from NCDC or through state governments, depending on their eligibility under the NCDC guidelines.

   • Those meeting the criteria for direct funding will be considered for loans against admissible security or a state government guarantee.

   Loan Utilization:

   • The funds will be provided as long-term credit for:

     • Setting up new facilities, modernizing existing ones, or upgrading technologies.

     • Expansion of project capacities in the key sectors.

   • Working capital loans will also be granted to ensure smooth operational flow and increase business efficiency.

Expected Benefits:

• Economic Empowerment: The scheme is designed to enhance the productivity and profitability of cooperatives, enabling them to compete better in the market.

  Employment Generation: The development of new projects and infrastructure will lead to increased job opportunities across different skill levels.

  Socio-Economic Growth: The focus on women-led cooperatives and labour cooperatives will help foster greater inclusivity in the rural economy.

  Sectoral Growth: Key sectors like dairy, textiles, and food processing are expected to see improved productivity, modernization, and capacity building.