The National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has been in the news recently due to the suspension of traffic on NH10 from Sikkim and Kalimpong to Siliguri because of a landslide and cave-ins. This has caused disruptions on a 30 km stretch, which is currently undergoing repairs by NHIDCL.
Incorporation:
NHIDCL was incorporated on July 18, 2014, under the Companies Act, 2013, as a Central Public Sector Undertaking (CPSU). It is a wholly-owned Government entity.
Role:
NHIDCL is exclusively tasked with constructing, upgrading, and widening national highways in specific regions of India, particularly those that share international boundaries with neighboring countries. The aim is to promote regional connectivity and economic integration across borders.
Mission & Vision:
The corporation supports the Government of India’s vision for enhanced regional connectivity and economic growth, particularly under the framework of India’s "Act East Policy".
NHIDCL’s operations are concentrated in strategic regions of India, including:
Union Territories: Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
State: Uttarakhand.
Region: Entire Northeastern Region (NER), which is vital for India’s economic and geopolitical strategy.
NHIDCL is responsible for a wide range of infrastructure development projects, such as:
Tunnels
Logistics Hubs
Interstate and International Road Linkages
Advanced Mobility Facilities
These are essential for India’s economic growth, border connectivity, and geopolitical interests.
Pivotal in Northeast Connectivity: NHIDCL plays a key role as the nodal agency in the Northeastern region, which is crucial for the government’s focus on the "Act East Policy". This policy emphasizes stronger ties with Southeast Asia and the East Asian region, with a focus on connectivity and infrastructure.
NHIDCL’s work is critical for the national development agenda, especially in terms of improving infrastructure in regions that are geographically strategic for both economic and geopolitical reasons. By strengthening road networks, logistics, and border connectivity, NHIDCL is facilitating greater integration of India’s Northeastern states with the rest of the country and the broader Asia-Pacific region.
Russia has recently tightened its grip over the Sahel region in West Africa, marking a significant development with the signing of a key nuclear agreement with Niger.
Geography:
The Sahel is a semiarid region of western and north-central Africa, stretching over a vast 5,000-kilometre belt from Africa's Atlantic Coast to the Red Sea. It serves as a transitional zone between the Sahara Desert to the north and the humid savannas to the south.
Countries in the Sahel:
The region spans parts of several African countries, including:
Senegal
Mauritania
Mali
Burkina Faso
Niger
Nigeria
Chad
Sudan
Eritrea
Vegetation:
The Sahel has a semiarid steppe landscape, characterized by dry grasslands with sparse vegetation. Typical flora includes low-growing grasses, thorny shrubs, and scattered acacia and baobab trees.
Governance and Extremism:
Since many countries in the Sahel gained independence in the 1960s, they have faced challenges related to violent extremism. This is primarily due to a mix of weak governance, economic decline, and the worsening effects of climate change. The rise of militant groups, including those linked to al-Qaeda and ISIS, has exacerbated regional instability.
Climate Change:
The Sahel is highly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, with increasing desertification, reduced rainfall, and changing weather patterns. This has led to food insecurity, poverty, and displacement.
Migration:
The Sahel remains a major transit point for migrants from sub-Saharan Africa, many of whom aim to reach northern coastal states and eventually Europe. The ongoing crises and instability have further fueled migration from this region.
Russia's recent nuclear agreement with Niger highlights its growing role in the Sahel, particularly as Western influence in the region has waned in recent years. This agreement is expected to increase Russia's strategic presence, particularly in the areas of energy and security. The growing Russian influence is part of its broader geopolitical engagement in Africa, where it has sought to establish closer ties with several nations in recent years, particularly through military cooperation and resource extraction.
The Sahel region remains a critical geopolitical area in Africa, facing a complex combination of security challenges, economic hardships, and climate-related issues. The growing involvement of external powers like Russia in this region could further shape its future trajectory, with potential implications for local governance, regional stability, and global security.
Scientists have reported that marine heatwaves (MHWs) affected 96% of the ocean surface in 2023, raising alarms about the potential for a permanent temperature shift that could severely disrupt marine ecosystems and affect life both in oceans and on land.
Definition:
A marine heatwave (MHW) is an extreme weather event characterized by sea surface temperatures rising 3 to 4°C above average in a specific region for at least five days. MHWs can persist for weeks, months, or even years, causing long-lasting changes to marine environments.
Global Warming:
Rising CO₂ levels trap heat in the atmosphere, causing ocean warming. Oceans absorb about 90% of excess heat from global warming, increasing the likelihood of MHWs.
El Niño:
This climate phenomenon warms the upper ocean layers, weakens upwelling, and traps surface heat. The Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), a long-term climate pattern, also amplifies MHWs by shifting Pacific temperature patterns.
Reduced Cloud Cover:
With fewer clouds, more sunlight directly reaches the ocean surface, causing rapid warming. For example, the Atlantic heatwaves of 2023 were exacerbated by this factor.
Changing Ocean Currents:
Shifts in ocean currents, like the weakened Gulf Stream, raise regional sea temperatures, contributing to MHWs. This also affects hurricanes and sea-level rise along affected coastlines.
Human-Induced Feedback Loops:
Arctic warming melts reflective sea ice, exposing darker waters that absorb more heat, contributing to further warming. Similarly, coral die-offs reduce CO₂ absorption, accelerating global warming.
The ocean's average temperature has increased by 1.5°C over the last century, and by 2100, marine heatwaves could be 50 times more frequent than pre-industrial times.
Climatic Impacts:
MHWs contribute to extreme weather events like tropical storms and hurricanes. They also disrupt the water cycle, leading to increased flooding, droughts, and wildfires. A notable example is Hurricane Ian in Florida.
Economic Impact:
MHWs significantly affect aquaculture and fisheries, as farmed species rely on stable temperatures. For example, key species like lobster, snow crab, and scallops have seen declines in affected regions like the Northwest Atlantic and Western Australia.
Ecological Consequences:
Marine ecosystems face mass mortality of invertebrates, disruption of food webs, and changes in wildlife behavior. Species like kelp forests, seagrass meadows, and coral reefs are particularly vulnerable, with ecosystem collapses and local extinctions witnessed during MHW events (e.g., 2011 Western Australia).
Compounding Environmental Stressors:
MHWs often coincide with other oceanic stressors like ocean acidification, deoxygenation, and overfishing, intensifying the environmental destruction.
Strengthen Ocean Monitoring:
Expand marine monitoring systems and improve climate models to predict MHWs in real time, providing early warnings to coastal communities.
Protect and Restore Marine Ecosystems:
Conserve coral reefs, mangroves, and other key ecosystems by establishing Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and restoring degraded coastal zones like seagrasses and salt marshes. These ecosystems help absorb CO₂ and enhance resilience.
Advance Sustainable Fishing and Aquaculture:
Promote climate-resilient aquaculture by using heat-tolerant species and providing sustainable feeds. Early warning systems can help alert fishing communities about upcoming MHWs, allowing them to adapt.
Enhance Global Cooperation:
Strengthen commitments under the Paris Agreement, support vulnerable nations with climate finance, and promote global ocean governance through frameworks like the UN Decade of Ocean Science (2021-2030).
Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHGs):
Transition to renewable energy, implement carbon pricing, and promote sustainable transport and industries to curb emissions and fight climate change.
Reduce Local Stressors on Oceans:
Curb ocean pollution through agreements like the UN Plastic Treaty and sustainable farming practices. Innovations like reflective infrastructure and artificial upwelling can cool ocean surfaces and reduce heat absorption.
Marine heatwaves pose an increasing threat to ocean health, weather stability, and coastal economies. Combating them requires global emission reductions, protection of marine ecosystems, and the development of advanced monitoring systems. Without immediate and concerted action, MHWs will continue to intensify, leading to irreversible damage to biodiversity and human livelihoods. A coordinated climate-ocean policy is essential to safeguard our oceans and the future of life on Earth.
About:
The Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) is a statutory body created under the Compensatory Afforestation Fund (CAF) Act, 2016. It operates both at the national and state/UT levels. Its primary aim is to oversee and manage the funds collected for compensatory afforestation when forest land is diverted for non-forest purposes (e.g., for infrastructure, industrial development, etc.).
Background:
CAMPA was initially established by the Supreme Court in 2002 following the T.N. Godavarman vs. Union of India case (1995) to monitor and guide compensatory afforestation initiatives across the country. It was formed in response to unutilized afforestation funds and inconsistent fund management by states.
Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980:
According to this Act, when forest land is diverted for non-forest purposes, the user agency (those requesting land diversion) must:
Provide alternative non-forest land for afforestation.
Bear the costs associated with the afforestation process.
If suitable non-forest land is not available, the user agency must undertake afforestation on twice the area of degraded forest land.
CAF Act, 2016:
The CAF Act, 2016 institutionalized the management of these funds, with dedicated funds created at both the national and state levels for afforestation and ecological restoration activities.
Dedicated Funds:
National CAF (NCAF): Managed by National CAMPA under the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC), under the Public Account of India.
State CAF (SCAF): Managed by State CAMPA Authorities under the Public Accounts of States/UTs.
These funds are interest-bearing and non-lapsable, meaning unused funds accrue interest and do not expire.
Fund Allocation:
90% of CAMPA funds are allocated to states/UTs for afforestation and ecological restoration.
10% is retained by the Centre for oversight, capacity-building, and national-level initiatives.
The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) conducts annual audits of both National and State CAMPA to ensure financial accountability.
Permissible Activities Under CAMPA Funds:
Afforestation (compensatory, additional, and penal).
Catchment treatment and natural regeneration.
Support for forest and wildlife management, human-wildlife conflict mitigation, and village relocation from protected areas.
Initiatives for capacity building and infrastructure development for forest and wildlife protection.
Land Availability Constraints:
The CAF Act mandates that afforestation land be contiguous to the diverted forest area for effective management. However, suitable non-forest land is often scarce, especially in small states and heavily forested regions like Chhattisgarh. Additionally, the land provided is sometimes unsuitable for plantations.
Diversion and Underutilization of Funds:
Despite the creation of CAMPA, funds—especially those collected before 2016—were underutilized until the CAF Act came into force. Funds have also been diverted for other schemes like the Green India Mission, diluting the focus on compensatory afforestation.
Ecological Limitations & Monoculture:
Monoculture plantations (single-species plantations) are common in CAMPA projects, which reduce biodiversity, disrupt ecological corridors, and cause edge effects that weaken overall ecosystem integrity.
Greenwashing & Rights Violations:
Critics warn of greenwashing, where compensatory afforestation replaces rich, biodiverse forests with commercial monocultures that fail to provide necessary ecosystem services.
Additionally, the unilateral control of CAMPA funds by forest officials often sidesteps tribals and forest dwellers, violating the Forest Rights Act, 2006.
Policy & Institutional Gaps:
Delays in plan submissions, fund releases, and the lack of dedicated CAMPA offices in states hinder the effective implementation of the Act.
The Parliamentary Committee has flagged the bureaucratic nature of the CAF Act, with no fixed timelines for afforestation targets.
Ecologically Viable Land Bank:
Create a central land bank of non-forest and degraded forest lands near existing forests to enhance ecological connectivity, reduce edge effects, and improve survival rates for afforestation efforts.
Fund Utilization & Transparency:
Ensure timely release of funds, adherence to annual plans with clear timelines, and strengthen audits.
Third-party monitoring and public disclosure of fund utilization and outcomes will improve transparency and accountability.
Biodiverse, Community-Led Approach:
Shift from monoculture plantations to native, multi-species plantations to enhance biodiversity.
Involve tribals and forest dwellers as per the Forest Rights Act, 2006 to ensure socio-ecological justice and prevent greenwashing.
Legal & Policy Reforms:
Amend the CAF Act to:
Set time-bound afforestation targets.
Mandate ecological equivalence (i.e., afforestation should restore similar ecological functions as the original forest).
Enforce penalties for non-compliance.
Link forest clearances to ecosystem service restoration and not just land area.
Align CAMPA’s goals with IPCC guidelines, India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and the Paris Agreement to ensure that net ecological loss is avoided.
The Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) plays a crucial role in restoring and protecting India’s forests, especially when forest land is diverted for developmental purposes. However, the implementation faces significant challenges related to land availability, fund utilization, and ecological concerns. Reforms to ensure biodiversity-based afforestation, better fund management, and community involvement are necessary for the success of compensatory afforestation initiatives in India.
Parliamentary oversight is essential to ensure that the executive (the government) remains accountable to the legislature (Parliament). It is a key component of India’s democratic framework, designed to uphold transparency, accountability, and good governance. The Indian Constitution provides a robust structure for legislative scrutiny of the executive, yet the effectiveness of these mechanisms has often been questioned.
Constitutional Provisions:
Article 107: Defines the legislative process, including the introduction and passage of bills.
Article 108: Provides for joint sittings of both Houses (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha) to resolve legislative deadlocks.
Article 111: Grants the President the power to assent or return bills for reconsideration.
Question Hour and Zero Hour:
Question Hour allows Members of Parliament (MPs) to directly question Ministers on government policies, decisions, and actions.
Zero Hour provides an opportunity for MPs to raise urgent matters without prior notice, often leading to debates on pressing issues.
Committee System for Legislative Review:
Standing Committees: These committees analyze bills in detail before they are debated in Parliament, ensuring a more comprehensive review.
Public Accounts Committee (PAC): It scrutinizes government spending and the audit reports submitted by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).
Estimates Committee: This committee examines budget allocations and assesses the efficiency of government programs.
Budgetary Scrutiny:
Article 112: Mandates the presentation of the Annual Financial Statement (Union Budget).
Article 113: Requires Parliamentary approval for government expenditure.
Article 117: Ensures that Money Bills can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha with the President’s recommendation.
Diminishing Role of Question Hour:
The Question Hour has seen frequent disruptions, which undermines its effectiveness as a tool for government accountability.
In the 17th Lok Sabha (2019-2024), Question Hour was held for only 60% of the scheduled time in the Lok Sabha and 52% in the Rajya Sabha.
Limited Influence of Parliamentary Committees:
Despite producing detailed reports, the Department-related Standing Committees (DRSCs) often fail to influence significant legislative or executive actions.
Committee consultations tend to engage a narrow set of stakeholders, raising concerns about the diversity and breadth of input.
Executive Dominance in Budgetary Affairs:
The Union Finance Ministry is responsible for crafting the Budget, with minimal input from Parliament. This has reduced Parliament’s role from an active participant to a rubber-stamp approver.
The Rajya Sabha has no substantive role in budget discussions, despite its democratic credentials.
Financial and Infrastructure Reforms:
Standing Committee on Railways: In 2015, the committee recommended waiving dividend payments by Indian Railways, which was implemented in 2016 to improve the financial health of the organization.
Committee on Public Undertakings: Addressed delays in NHAI-managed highway projects by recommending that projects should only commence after 80% of land acquisition and clearances.
Policy and Legislative Amendments:
Standing Committee on Transport: Played a significant role in influencing amendments to the Motor Vehicles Bill (2017), which removed caps on third-party insurance and established a National Road Safety Board.
Estimates Committee: Advised the government on increasing domestic uranium production, aiming to reduce India’s dependency on uranium imports.
Accountability and Corruption Exposures:
The PAC exposed serious delays, opaque appointments, and corrupt practices during the Commonwealth Games in 2010. Since then, the PAC has consistently made around 180 recommendations annually, of which 80% have been accepted by the government.
Revitalizing Question Hour:
Ensure uninterrupted sessions for Question Hour, allowing MPs to systematically scrutinize government policies.
Encourage MPs to address cross-ministerial issues, which will bring attention to more holistic governance concerns rather than isolated queries.
Enhancing Committee Effectiveness:
Increase stakeholder engagement in committee discussions, bringing in diverse viewpoints to make recommendations more reflective of various societal needs.
Ensure that committee recommendations are debated and discussed on the floor of Parliament for greater visibility and accountability.
Reforming Budgetary Oversight:
Establish an independent Parliamentary Budget Office (PBO) to provide objective financial analysis of the Budget and the fiscal policies of the government.
Allow pre-Budget discussions to enhance legislative input, ensuring that Parliament has a meaningful role in shaping the Budget.
Post-Legislative Scrutiny:
Conduct systematic reviews of laws after passage to assess whether they achieve their intended outcomes.
India can adopt a model similar to the United Kingdom, where government departments submit reviews of major laws every three to five years, which are then examined by parliamentary committees.
Institutional Strengthening:
Make committee reports more accessible to the public through translations, visual explainers, and videos to ensure that citizens understand the issues being discussed and the recommendations being made.
Committees should be provided with dedicated research and technical support, rather than relying only on administrative assistance.
Technology-Driven Oversight:
Leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data analytics to track policy trends, flag irregularities, and frame evidence-based questions for government ministers. This will improve the efficiency and depth of oversight activities.
As K.R. Narayanan, the former Vice-President of India, aptly noted, the purpose of legislative oversight is not to undermine the administration but to strengthen it by ensuring meaningful parliamentary support for governance. By revitalizing Question Hour, enhancing the role of Parliamentary Committees, reforming budgetary oversight, and leveraging technology, India can ensure that its government remains accountable, transparent, and truly reflective of the will of its people.
The India Justice Report (IJR) 2025, released by Tata Trusts in collaboration with other organizations, sheds light on the critical flaws and challenges facing India’s justice system. The report underscores how delays, overcrowding, and lack of accountability have made justice increasingly inaccessible for millions of citizens across the country.
The India Justice Report is a periodic national assessment that evaluates the capacity and performance of India’s justice system. It measures the effectiveness of four key pillars of justice:
Police
Judiciary
Prisons
Legal Aid
The report ranks states based on their performance in these areas, using various metrics such as human resources, infrastructure, budgets, workload, and diversity.
Judicial Backlog and Vacancies:
Over five crore pending cases across the country.
High Courts face 33% vacancy rates, and District Courts have 21% vacancy rates.
The ideal ratio of judges to population (50 judges per 10 lakh) is far from met. India has only 15 judges per 10 lakh people, much lower than the Law Commission’s suggestion of 50 judges per 10 lakh.
In states like Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and Kerala, judges handle workloads exceeding 4,000 cases per judge.
Policing and Rural Neglect:
Police-to-population ratio is 155 personnel per 100,000 people, well below the sanctioned 197 personnel.
A sharp decline in rural police stations, impacting the accessibility of law enforcement in rural areas.
While 83% of police stations have at least one CCTV camera, states like Jharkhand have less than 50% coverage.
Women in police forces are largely concentrated in constabulary roles, with minimal leadership representation.
Prison Overcrowding:
Several prisons operate at over 250% occupancy, with Uttar Pradesh alone having 18 prisons operating at overcapacity.
76% of prisoners are undertrials, with Delhi exceeding 90% of its prison population being undertrial.
Legal Aid Accessibility:
The per capita spending on legal aid is extremely low at ₹6.46, restricting access to justice for marginalized communities.
The number of paralegal volunteers has dropped by 38% since 2019.
Diversity and Representation:
Karnataka is the only state to meet the SC, ST, and OBC quotas in both the police and judiciary.
At the current pace, Jharkhand will take 206 years to achieve 33% women in the police force, while Andhra Pradesh will take just 3 years.
Large States (population above 10 million):
Karnataka remains at the top, with Andhra Pradesh climbing to second place (from fifth).
Telangana retains its third position since 2019.
Chhattisgarh saw the highest rise in police training spend and achieved 100% case clearance rates at both High Court and district levels.
Every police station in Chhattisgarh has a women’s help desk.
Small States (population up to 10 million):
Sikkim retains its 1st rank among small states and is the only state to meet the 33% women judges benchmark in High Courts.
All small states have achieved 80%+ police stations with CCTV coverage, and Goa (70%) and Meghalaya (61%) lead in district court judges representation.
The India Justice Report 2025 reveals several challenges that have significant implications for the common citizen:
Fear of Law Enforcement:
Due to inefficiencies and biases within the system, many citizens, especially in rural areas, are reluctant to approach law enforcement for help.
Distrust in the Judiciary:
The backlog of cases and delays in the judicial process foster a deep sense of distrust, as justice is often delayed for years, leaving citizens frustrated with the lack of timely resolution.
Normalization of Custodial Violence:
With prison overcrowding and high percentages of undertrials, custodial violence remains a critical issue with little accountability for human rights violations within the prison system.
Fill Vacancies and Reduce Backlog:
Expedite the appointment of judges to fill vacancies in High Courts and District Courts.
Implement technology-driven solutions like e-courts to tackle the five-crore pending cases and reduce the backlog.
Improve Police-to-Population Ratio & Enhance Rural Policing:
Address the decline in rural police stations to ensure equitable law enforcement across urban and rural areas.
Reduce Overcrowding & Focus on Undertrials:
Expand prison infrastructure and promote alternatives to incarceration such as community service and bail reforms to reduce overcrowding.
Increase Funding for Legal Aid:
Raise per capita spending on legal aid from the current ₹6.46 to ensure better access to justice for marginalized communities.
Strengthen Paralegal Networks:
Rebuild the paralegal volunteer base, which has declined by 38% since 2019, to ensure that communities receive the support needed to navigate the legal system.
Enhance Diversity and Representation:
Ensure adequate representation of SC, ST, OBC, and women in police forces, judiciary, and legal aid systems to ensure that the system is more inclusive and representative.
Leverage Technology and Innovation:
Integrate forensic science and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms to improve judicial efficiency.
Expand the use of e-governance and digital tools for case management and public access to justice services.
The India Justice Report 2025 exposes critical flaws within India’s justice system, which urgently need reform. The report underscores the need for:
Judicial reforms to address backlog and vacancies.
Police restructuring to ensure better access and equity, especially in rural areas.
Improved legal aid accessibility to ensure marginalized communities are not left behind.
Without systemic changes, justice will remain elusive for millions of Indians. Addressing these issues is paramount to ensuring that India’s justice system functions effectively, transparently, and equitably for all citizens. Reforms are essential to building a justice system that is truly accessible, inclusive, and efficient in serving its people.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has showcased remarkable progress in integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into its infrastructure projects, as highlighted in its second Sustainability Report for FY 2023–24. The report underscores NHAI’s alignment with India's Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) and circular economy principles, aiming to ensure that infrastructure development contributes to long-term ecological balance.
Decoupling Growth from Emissions:
NHAI achieved a 20% increase in National Highway construction, yet reduced its GHG (Greenhouse Gas) emission intensity from 1.0 to 0.8 MTCO₂e/km.
This reflects NHAI's ability to decouple highway construction growth from environmental harm, ensuring that infrastructural expansion does not contribute disproportionately to climate change.
Promoting Circular Economy:
In FY 2023–24, NHAI utilized over 631 lakh metric tonnes of recycled and reused materials in construction, such as:
Fly ash
Plastic waste
Reclaimed asphalt
This initiative not only reduces construction waste but also enhances resource efficiency, ensuring the use of sustainable materials in highway projects.
Water Body Rejuvenation:
NHAI has played a significant role in rejuvenating water bodies across India. Under the Amrit Sarovar Mission, NHAI has developed 467 water bodies.
These efforts have resulted in the recovery of 2.4 crore cubic meters of soil, leading to cost savings of ₹16,690 crore in construction materials.
Reduced Water Use Intensity:
The report highlights a 74% reduction in water use intensity in water-stressed regions, reflecting NHAI’s focus on water conservation during infrastructure development, especially in arid areas.
To ensure that infrastructure projects align with sustainable development, NHAI and other infrastructure agencies can adopt the following principles:
Adopt Green Infrastructure Principles:
Design infrastructure that works with nature: E.g., permeable pavements, green roofs, bio-swales, and urban forests.
This ensures that the built environment doesn’t just meet functional needs but also creates ecological benefits.
Integrate Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA):
Make Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) a part of the decision-making process at the planning stage, rather than a formality.
Employ Strategic Environmental Assessments that also include social assessments for large-scale or regional infrastructure projects.
Use Sustainable Materials & Promote Circular Economy:
Recycled, low-carbon, and locally sourced materials should be prioritized.
Promote reuse of waste materials like fly ash, plastic, and construction & demolition (C&D) waste to reduce the consumption of virgin materials.
Green Cover and Compensatory Afforestation:
Infrastructure projects should integrate green cover, such as tree plantation, green belts, and ecological buffers along highways and other transport routes.
The “Tree First, Road Next” approach should be followed in sensitive zones to mitigate deforestation and habitat loss.
Water Conservation and Management:
Implement stormwater harvesting, greywater reuse, and water-efficient systems in urban and transport projects.
Rejuvenate local water bodies to ensure that infrastructure projects contribute to water conservation.
Wildlife and Biodiversity Considerations:
Infrastructure planning should consider biodiversity, including building eco-bridges, underpasses, and animal corridors to allow safe passage for wildlife across roads, railways, and other linear infrastructure.
Low-Carbon Transport Infrastructure:
Promote mass rapid transit systems, non-motorized transport (NMT), and EV-ready highways.
Develop more dedicated freight corridors to reduce emissions and congestion on existing roads.
Policy Alignment and ESG Compliance:
Infrastructure projects should be aligned with India’s Mission LiFE, National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Encourage ESG reporting across public sector agencies involved in infrastructure development.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways responsible for the development, maintenance, and management of National Highways in India. Established under the NHAI Act, 1988, and operational since February 1995, NHAI plays a pivotal role in expanding India’s road infrastructure. It is governed by a Chairman, with several full-time and part-time members appointed by the Central Government.
NHAI’s Sustainability Report 2023–24 marks a significant shift in India's infrastructure development model — from a "build fast" approach to a "build green" one. By integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into its operations, NHAI is showing that it is possible to expand infrastructure while minimizing ecological harm. As India continues to expand its infrastructure, it is essential to follow the path of 'concrete with conscience', where each road, bridge, and port is not just an economic asset but also an ecological responsibility.
The RS-28 Sarmat, also known as "Satan 2" by NATO, is a cutting-edge intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) that plays a pivotal role in Russia's nuclear deterrence strategy. As global tensions between major powers like the United States and Russia escalate, the RS-28 Sarmat has drawn considerable attention due to its capabilities and potential strategic impact.
Design & Specifications:
Three-Stage, Liquid-Fueled Missile: The RS-28 Sarmat is a liquid-fueled ICBM with three stages of propulsion, giving it exceptional range and power.
Weight & Size: The missile is the heaviest ICBM ever built, with a launch weight of more than 208 tonnes. Its dimensions are equally imposing, being 35.3 meters long and 3 meters in diameter.
Speed: It can reach a maximum speed of 25,500 kph, or about Mach 20, which is more than 20 times the speed of sound, making it highly maneuverable and hard to intercept.
Range & Payload:
Range: The RS-28 Sarmat has an incredible range of 18,000 km, allowing it to strike targets across continents.
Payload: It can carry a 10-ton payload, and up to 16 independently targetable nuclear warheads, as well as Avangard hypersonic glide vehicles.
Warhead Variety: The missile can accommodate a variety of warheads, enhancing its versatility and strike potential.
Guidance System:
Each warhead has its own guidance system, which uses inertial navigation, GLONASS (Russia's Global Navigation Satellite System), and astro-inertial technology to ensure precise targeting.
Fractional Orbital Bombardment:
The RS-28 Sarmat is believed to be capable of fractional orbital bombardment, which involves launching the missile into a low Earth orbit (far lower than a typical ICBM trajectory). This allows the missile to approach its target from unexpected angles, potentially reducing the likelihood of interception.
Devastating Impact:
The RS-28 Sarmat's warheads are reported to be capable of delivering 2,000 times the power of the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, underscoring the missile's massive destructive potential.
The RS-28 Sarmat is a part of Russia's modernization of its nuclear arsenal, serving as a powerful deterrent against potential adversaries. The missile's ability to deliver multiple, highly destructive warheads with extreme accuracy makes it a formidable weapon in strategic military scenarios.
Nuclear Deterrence: With its massive payload and ability to target from unexpected trajectories, the RS-28 Sarmat is seen as a means to ensure that any potential aggressor would face catastrophic retaliation in the event of a nuclear conflict.
Impact on Global Security: The missile represents a significant escalation in the global arms race, highlighting the evolving nature of nuclear warfare. The integration of hypersonic glide vehicles into the missile's payload adds another layer of complexity to missile defense systems worldwide.
The Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, is one of the most sacred and historically significant Buddhist sites in the world. Recently, the Supreme Court of India has agreed to review a petition that seeks the repeal of the Bodh Gaya Temple Act of 1949, which governs the management of the temple. The petition advocates for replacing the act with a central law to better manage and oversee the operations of the temple, reflecting its importance as a global pilgrimage site.
Sacred Significance:
The Mahabodhi Temple marks the exact location where Buddha attained Enlightenment (Bodhi) under the sacred Bodhi Tree.
It is one of the four most sacred sites in Buddhism, alongside:
Lumbini: Buddha’s birthplace.
Sarnath: Buddha’s first sermon.
Kushinagar: Buddha’s parinirvana (death).
Location:
Situated in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, on the banks of the Niranjana River.
Historical Background:
The first temple was built by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC to mark the place of Buddha's enlightenment.
The current temple structure was constructed in the 5th–6th century AD during the Gupta period.
The temple underwent extensive restoration in the 19th century by Myanmar (Burmese) Buddhists and later by British archaeologist Sir Alexander Cunningham.
The temple was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002.
Temple Structure:
The main temple is 180 feet (55 meters) tall, dominated by a pyramid-shaped central tower known as the Shikhara.
The tower is adorned with multiple niches, arch motifs, and fine engravings.
Four smaller towers, resembling the main tower, stand at the corners of the two-story temple.
Inside the Temple:
The shrine houses a yellow sandstone statue of Buddha encased in glass.
The Vajrasana (Diamond Throne), a stone slab, marks the exact spot where Buddha meditated and attained Enlightenment.
Sacred Bodhi Tree:
The Bodhi Tree within the temple complex is considered a direct descendant of the original tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.
Ashoka's Pillar:
One of Ashoka’s famous pillars, engraved with his proclamations and religious teachings, stands at the southeast corner of the temple.
Temple Complex:
The entire temple complex spans 4.8 hectares and includes ancient shrines, modern Buddhist structures, and offerings by devotees.
The Bodh Gaya Temple Act of 1949 was enacted to govern the management of the Mahabodhi Temple. However, it has been criticized for its limitations in modernizing the administration of the temple, especially considering its global importance as a pilgrimage site for millions of Buddhists worldwide.
The Supreme Court's decision to review the petition seeking a central law signals that there may be efforts to revise or replace the existing framework to ensure better management, transparency, and protection of the temple's heritage.
Better Management: Replacing the 1949 Act with a central law may bring a more efficient and uniform management system for the temple, ensuring better preservation of the site and more effective governance.
Increased Global Participation: A new law could potentially encourage greater participation from international Buddhist communities, aligning with the temple’s status as a global religious and cultural symbol.
Preservation of Heritage: The review of the law may emphasize preserving the historical and spiritual significance of the site, ensuring that future generations continue to benefit from its teachings and heritage.
The Mahabodhi Temple remains a symbol of Buddhist spirituality and historical legacy. The Supreme Court's decision to review the Bodh Gaya Temple Act of 1949 highlights the need for updated governance structures that respect the temple's cultural significance while adapting to the modern-day challenges of heritage preservation, pilgrimage management, and global recognition. The outcome of this review could set a precedent for how religious heritage sites in India are managed, especially those of international importance.
The Asian Giant Tortoise, also known as Manouria emys phayrei, has recently been reintroduced into the Zeliang Community Reserve in Nagaland's Peren district, marking a significant conservation effort for this critically endangered species.
Largest Tortoise in Asia:
The Asian Giant Tortoise is the largest tortoise species found in mainland Asia. It is known for its impressive size and unique ecological role in its native habitats.
Ancient Lineage:
This species is considered to be among the oldest tortoise lineages in the world. They share interesting behavioral traits with crocodilians, such as protecting their eggs and maintaining appropriate incubation temperatures, a rare and fascinating adaptation.
Appearance:
As hatchlings, the tortoises have a grayish-brown color, which gradually transitions to a charcoal hue as they mature into adulthood.
Habitat:
These tortoises are primarily found in tropical and subtropical hill forests. Their natural environment is crucial to their survival, providing them with the food and shelter they need.
Geographical Distribution:
The species can be found across several countries in Asia, including Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
Diet:
Their diet is primarily made up of bamboo shoots, tubers, and other juicy vegetation. They also occasionally consume invertebrates and frogs, making them omnivores.
Threats:
The Asian Giant Tortoise faces multiple threats, including:
Hunting for consumption.
Habitat loss due to deforestation and human encroachment.
Anthropogenic activities, such as construction and slash-and-burn agricultural practices.
IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered, reflecting the species' severe decline in population and the urgent need for conservation measures.
CITES: Listed under Appendix II, which means it is considered a species that is not necessarily threatened with extinction but may become so without strict regulation of trade.
The reintroduction of the Asian Giant Tortoise into the Zeliang Community Reserve is a significant step in its conservation. This initiative is a part of broader efforts to preserve biodiversity in the region, particularly given the threatened status of this species. Reintroducing tortoises into their natural habitat helps to restore balance to the ecosystem and offers them a better chance for long-term survival.
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We provide offline, online and recorded lectures in the same amount.
Every aspirant is unique and the mentoring is customised according to the strengths and weaknesses of the aspirant.
In every Lecture. Director Sir will provide conceptual understanding with around 800 Mindmaps.
We provide you the best and Comprehensive content which comes directly or indirectly in UPSC Exam.
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