Environment

 

Environment Current Affairs, Important for Competitive Exams.

January 2025 was the warmest January on record

January 2025 was the warmest January on record, despite the presence of La Niña, a climate pattern that typically brings cooler global temperatures. According to the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S), the global average temperature for January 2025 was 13.23°C, which is 0.09°C warmer than the previous record set in January 2024 and 0.79°C above the 1991-2020 average.

This record-breaking warmth comes on the heels of 2024 being the hottest year on record, with global average temperatures rising 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels for the first time. Scientists have noted that global temperatures have stayed above the 1.5-degree mark for 18 of the last 19 months.

Despite La Niña’s cooling effect, ocean temperatures in the eastern Pacific remained above normal, suggesting that the shift toward La Niña may be slowing or stalling. The Arctic also experienced unusually high temperatures, with parts of the Canadian Arctic seeing temperatures 30°C (54°F) warmer than average.

International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) officially comes into force

The Framework Agreement on the establishment of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) has officially come into force, as announced by the Environment Ministry. The IBCA and its Secretariat have become a treaty-based, inter-governmental international organization and legal entity as of January 23.

Five countries – Nicaragua, Eswatini, India, Somalia, and Liberia – have deposited their instruments of ratification under the Framework Agreement. A total of 27 countries, including India, have consented to join the IBCA. Several international and national organizations working in wildlife conservation have partnered with the IBCA.

The IBCA was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 9, 2023, during the ‘Commemorating 50 years of Project Tiger’ event. The Union Cabinet approved the establishment of the IBCA last year, with its headquarters in India.

The IBCA aims to conserve seven big cats: Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma.

India Adds Four New Ramsar Sites, Taking Tally to 89

The Centre has announced the addition of four new Ramsar sites in India, taking the total to 89. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change shared this news ahead of World Wetlands Day, stating that the new sites include Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary and Therthangal Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu, Khecheopalri Wetland in Sikkim, and Udhwa Lake in Jharkhand.

Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav highlighted that India continues to have the highest number of Ramsar sites in Asia and ranks third in the world. He congratulated Tamil Nadu for becoming the state with the most Ramsar sites, now totaling 20. This addition also marks a significant achievement for Sikkim and Jharkhand, which have added their first Ramsar sites.

Amrit Udyan Open for Public from February 2 to March 30

Amrit Udyan at Rashtrapati Bhavan will be open to the public from February 2 to March 30, six days a week (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.), with Mondays reserved for maintenance. The garden will also be closed on February 5, February 20-21, and March 14 for specific events. Visitors can enter through Gate No. 35, with a shuttle service from Central Secretariat Metro Station available every 30 minutes.

Special days are reserved for:

  • March 26: Differently-abled persons
  • March 27: Defence, paramilitary, and police personnel
  • March 28: Women and Tribal Women’s SHGs
  • March 29: Senior citizens

Entry is free, with online booking at visit.rashtrapatibhavan.gov.in or walk-in options. Additionally, Rashtrapati Bhavan will host the Vividhta Ka Amrit Mahotsav from March 6 to 9, showcasing Southern India’s cultural heritage.

India’s First Case of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Detected in Bengaluru

First Case in India: An eight-month-old baby has been detected with Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Bengaluru, marking India’s first case amid a surge in such cases in China. The child has no travel history.

Government Response: The Karnataka Health Department confirmed the case, and it was reported to the Union Health Ministry. The Ministry assures India is prepared to manage respiratory illnesses, with no unusual surge in cases detected.

Monitoring and Updates: A joint monitoring group meeting was held to discuss the rise in respiratory illnesses in China. The Union Health Ministry is closely monitoring the situation and has requested updates from the WHO.

HMPV Overview:

Symptoms: HMPV causes symptoms similar to the common cold, like cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath.
Vulnerable Groups: Children, sexagenarians, and people with weak immune systems are most vulnerable. Most cases are mild, with most people contracting it before age 5.
Transmission: It spreads easily from person to person or contaminated surfaces. Recognized as a significant contributor to respiratory infections since its discovery in 2001.

Prevention Advice: The Director General of Health Services, Dr. Atul Goel, advises the public to take general precautions for respiratory infections, such as avoiding contact if symptomatic, following respiratory etiquette, and using common medicines for cold and fever.

IMD Declares 2024 as Warmest Year in India Since 1901

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that 2024 was the warmest year on record in India since 1901.

IMD Director General, Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, stated that minimum and maximum temperatures are expected to be higher than normal across most parts of the country in January, except in some areas of the eastern, northwest, and west-central regions.

However, western and northern parts of Central India may experience more cold wave days than usual. Rainfall in north India from January to March is projected to be below normal.

Cyclonic Storm Fengal Makes Landfall Between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram

Cyclonic storm Fengal, made landfall between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram near Puducherry on 30 November 2024, bring heavy rainfall and strong winds gusting up to 90 km/h. The Puducherry administration and Tamil Nadu authorities are on high alert, implementing extensive disaster management measures.

Emergency Preparations: The Disaster Management Emergency Operations Center is monitoring the situation. Officials, including District Collector A. Kulothungan, inspected low-lying areas and issued instructions to address challenges swiftly. NDRF trained personnel on portable lighting systems for power outages, while awareness campaigns urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel.

CoP29 UN Climate Change Conference, held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11 to 22, 2024

The 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (CoP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) was held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11 to November 22, 2024. This significant global event brought together world leaders, negotiators, business leaders, young people, climate scientists, Indigenous Peoples, and civil society to discuss and advance collective climate action.

One of the key priorities of CoP29 was to secure a new goal on climate finance. The conference aimed to ensure that every country has the means to take stronger climate action, slash greenhouse gas emissions, and build resilient communities. A notable outcome was the agreement to triple public finance to developing countries, increasing it from USD 100 billion annually to USD 300 billion annually by 2035.

Despite the progress made, the conference faced challenges, including tense disagreements over climate finance and walkouts by some parties. The final deal was criticized for not fully addressing the scale, urgency, and inequity of the climate emergency. However, the conference laid the groundwork for future negotiations and highlighted the importance of continued global cooperation to tackle climate change.

GRAP Stage-4 implemented in Delhi-NCR from Nov 18 as Air Quality turns ‘Severe’

Due to severe air quality in Delhi-NCR, GRAP Stage-4 restrictions were implemented from 8 AM on November 18, 2024. The entry of heavy vehicles from other states is banned, except for trucks carrying essential commodities or services, and CNG, electric, and BS-VI diesel trucks.

The decision was made during a meeting of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi reached 452 by 6 PM, with most areas recording AQI levels above 450, as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Severe Cyclonic Storm ‘Dana’ in the Bay of Bengal Moving Towards Odisha

A severe cyclonic storm named ‘Dana’ is getting stronger in the Bay of Bengal and is moving towards the Odisha coast at 4 km per hour. It is expected to make landfall on the night of October 24-25, between Bhitarkanika and Bhadrak or Balasore. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that the storm will intensify into a severe cyclonic storm with wind speeds of 100 to 110 km per hour, gusting up to 120 km per hour.

The government has begun evacuating people from areas that may be severely affected. Six IAS officers are in charge of relief and rescue operations in six districts. Schools, colleges, and universities in 14 districts will be closed for three days, and exams have been canceled. All doctors’ leaves are canceled, and hospitals are preparing with extra medicines. The East Coast Railways has canceled 198 trains for three days, and over 500 cyclone shelters with basic supplies are ready. The state has asked for more NDRF teams, and fishermen are banned from going to sea starting tomorrow.

Stage-2 of GRAP invoked in Delhi and NCR region to tackle air pollution

Due to worsening air quality in Delhi and the NCR region, Stage-2 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has been activated from October 22, 2024. The decision was made by the Commission for Air Quality Management, which advised citizens to avoid dust-generating construction and open burning of waste and biomass during October to January.

An 11-point action plan has been enforced, including daily road cleaning, water sprinkling, and strict dust control at construction sites. The committee also emphasized targeted pollution control at hotspots and ensuring uninterrupted power supply to minimize the use of alternative power generators.

United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP16) in Colombia from 21 October to 1 November 2024

The United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP16) has begun in Colombia on 21 October 2024, where nearly 200 countries will assess progress on global biodiversity commitments. The focus is on the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, signed by 196 countries, aimed at halting and reversing nature loss.

Key tasks include reviewing how countries’ National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) align with the framework, advancing the monitoring system, and enhancing resource mobilization. Additionally, COP16 will finalize a mechanism for sharing benefits from digital genetic resource data. Colombia’s Environment Minister Susana Muhamad and Convention Executive Secretary Astrid Schomaker highlighted the importance of accelerating biodiversity action.

International Film Festival and Forum on Environment and Wildlife, “Vatavaran” inaugrated in New Delhi

The International Film Festival and Forum on Environment and Wildlife, Vatavaran was inaugurated on 3 October 2024 at Paryavaran Bhawan, New Delhi, with the theme “Wetlands for Life”, focusing on raising awareness and promoting conservation of the wetlands ecosystem.

During the event, Jitendra Kumar, Director General of Forests in the Ministry of Environment, emphasized the ecological and economic importance of wetlands to India, noting that 6% of Indians depend on wetlands for their livelihoods. Taina Dyckhoff, Head of Climate and Environment at the German Embassy to India, highlighted the successful bilateral cooperation between India and Germany in environmental and wetlands conservation.

Govt declares Eco-Sensitive Zone around Gir protected area

The government has declared 1.84 lakh hectares around the Gir Protected Area as an Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) on 25 September 2024.

The goal is to protect Asiatic lions in Gir, their only natural home, while allowing for sustainable development.

State Forest Minister Mulubhai Bera mentioned that the current ESZ includes areas within 10 km of the Gir boundary, covering 196 villages in three districts and 17 rivers. The new zone will add over 24,000 hectares of forest and 1.59 lakh hectares of non-forest land.

Nepal Becomes 101st Member of International Solar Alliance

On September 9, 2024, Nepal officially became the 101st member of the International Solar Alliance (ISA). The Instrument of Ratification was handed over by Nepal’s Chargé d’Affaires, Surendra Thapa, to the ISA officials in New Delhi. This membership marks a significant step for Nepal in its commitment to promoting renewable energy and addressing climate change.

About the International Solar Alliance

The International Solar Alliance (ISA) is a coalition of solar resource-rich countries, initiated by India and France during the COP21 Paris Agreement in 2015. The ISA aims to promote solar energy and reduce dependence on fossil fuels by facilitating the deployment of solar technologies globally.

Q.: Which two countries initiated the International Solar Alliance?

A) India and the USA
B) India and France
C) France and Germany
D) India and China

Ans : B) India and France
The International Solar Alliance (ISA) is a coalition of solar resource-rich countries, initiated by India and France during the COP21 Paris Agreement in 2015. On September 9, 2024, Nepal officially became the 101st member of the International Solar Alliance (ISA).

Smart Laboratory on Clean Rivers (SLCR) Project in Varanasi : India – Denmark Collaboration for Clean Rivers

On 22 August 2024, the Green Strategic Partnership between India and Denmark led to the creation of the Smart Laboratory on Clean Rivers (SLCR) in Varanasi.

  • SLCR is a collaboration between the Government of India, IIT-BHU, and the Government of Denmark focused on rejuvenating the Varuna River using sustainable methods.
  • The initiative involves a hybrid lab at IIT-BHU and a living lab at the Varuna River for real-world testing.
  • Key bodies, including the Indo-Danish Joint Steering Committee and Multi-Stakeholder Working Group, provide guidance and oversight.
  • Initial funding includes Rs. 16.80 crore from the Ministry of Jal Shakti and Rs. 5 crore from Denmark.
  • Four projects have been approved, focusing on water management, pollutant analysis, heritage preservation, and river-aquifer dynamics.
  • The SLCR aims to integrate academic, governmental, and international efforts for small river rejuvenation and sustainable solutions.

1. What does SLCR stand for in the context of the India-Denmark collaboration project in Varanasi?

a) Sustainable Laboratory on Clean Rivers
b) Smart Laboratory on Clean Rivers
c) Scientific Lab for Clean Rivers
d) Strategic Laboratory on Clean Rivers

Answer: b) Smart Laboratory on Clean Rivers

2. The SLCR project in Varanasi focuses on rejuvenating which river?

a) Ganga
b) Yamuna
c) Varuna
d) Godavari

Answer: c) Varuna

3. Which countries are involved in the Green Strategic Partnership that led to the creation of the SLCR?

a) India and Germany
b) India and Denmark
c) India and Japan
d) India and France

Answer: b) India and Denmark

India’s Ramsar Sites Count Reaches 85 with Three New Additions

India has recently added three more wetlands to its list of Ramsar sites, bringing the total to 85. Ramsar sites are wetlands of international importance, designated under the Ramsar Convention, an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands.

Importance of Ramsar Sites

Ramsar sites play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. They support a wide variety of flora and fauna, including many endangered species. These wetlands also provide essential services such as water purification, flood control, and groundwater replenishment. Additionally, they are vital for the livelihoods of local communities, offering resources like fish and plants.

Recent Additions

The three new Ramsar sites in India are:

  1. Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu
  2. Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu
  3. Tawa Reservoir in Madhya Pradesh

Distribution Across India

India’s Ramsar sites are spread across 18 states, with Tamil Nadu having the highest number at 18 sites, followed by Uttar Pradesh with 10. These sites cover a diverse range of ecosystems, from high-altitude lakes in Ladakh to coastal wetlands in Tamil Nadu.

Notable Ramsar Sites

  • Chilika Lake in Odisha: Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, known for its bird sanctuary.
  • Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan: A UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its avian population.
  • Sundarbans Wetland in West Bengal: Part of the largest mangrove forest in the world.

Q.: What is the total number of Ramsar sites in India after added three more wetlands in August 2024?

A) 75
B) 80
C) 85
D) 90

Ans : C) 85
India has recently added three more wetlands to its list of Ramsar sites, bringing the total to 85.

Q.: Which Ramsar site in India is known as Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon?

A) Keoladeo National Park
B) Sundarbans Wetland
C) Chilika Lake
D) Loktak Lake

Ans : C) Chilika Lake
Chilika Lake in Odisha: Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, known for its bird sanctuary.

Namami Gange Mission 2.0: Projects worth Rs 920 crore completed in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar

The central government has completed and operationalized four major projects under the Namami Gange Mission 2.0 in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, totaling Rs 920 crore. These projects aim to enhance sewage treatment capacity by 145 megaliters per day (MLD) and improve sewer networks. Key highlights include:

  • Technology and Standards: Utilizes Hybrid Annuity PPP (HAM) model and Advanced Sequencing Batch Reactor technology, adhering to National Green Tribunal (NGT) standards.
  • Environmental Impact: Aims to significantly improve the water quality of the Ganga and its tributaries by treating sewage and preventing untreated discharge.

Project Locations and Details:

  • Munger, Bihar: Cost: Rs 366 crore, Sewerage Network: 175 km, STP Capacity: 30 MLD, Benefits: Approximately 300,000 residents
  • Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh: Cost: Rs 129 crore, Sewage Treatment: Two new STPs (Pakka Pokhra and Bisunderpur) with 8.5 MLD capacity each
  • Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh: Cost: Rs 153 crore, Network: 1.3 km interception and diversion, STP Capacity: 21 MLD
  • Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh: Cost: Rs 271 crore, Focus: Intercepting, diverting, and treating sewage to prevent Ganga pollution

Community Benefits:

  • Enhances water quality and sanitation infrastructure.
  • Connects households to the sewer network, preventing untreated sewage discharge.

These initiatives are part of the broader Namami Gange Mission, aiming to rejuvenate and conserve the River Ganga for future generations.

Q.: What is the primary goal of the Namami Gange Mission?

A) To build new dams
B) To rejuvenate and conserve the River Ganga
C) To promote tourism along the Ganga
D) To construct new bridges over the Ganga

Ans : B) To rejuvenate and conserve the River Ganga
Namami Gange Mission, aim to rejuvenate and conserve the River Ganga for future generations.

World Hottest Day : July 22, 2024

According to preliminary data from a European Union monitoring agency, Monday, July 22, 2024, was the World hottest day on record, surpassing the previous day, July 21. The global average surface air temperature reached 17.15 degrees Celsius.

Historical Context:

  • The record was previously set for four consecutive days in early July 2023.
  • Before that, the hottest day was in August 2016.

Recent Heat Records:

  • Cities in Japan, Indonesia, and China have recently registered record heat.
  • Gulf countries have experienced heat indexes exceeding 60 degrees Celsius.
  • Parts of Europe have seen temperatures surge past 45 degrees Celsius.

Cause of Record Heat:

  • Scientists attribute the record heat to climate change driven by the burning of fossil fuels.
  • Unlike the previous year, which saw a combination of climate change and the El Nino pattern, this record was set without El Nino’s influence.

Q.: When was the World hottest day on record according to the preliminary data from a European Union monitoring agency?

A) July 21, 2023
B) July 22, 2024
C) August 2016
D) July 20, 2023

Ans : B) July 22, 2024
According to preliminary data from a European Union monitoring agency, Monday, July 22, 2024, was the World hottest day on record,

Q.: What was the global average surface air temperature on the hottest day on record on July 22, 2024?

A) 17.00 degrees Celsius
B) 17.10 degrees Celsius
C) 17.15 degrees Celsius
D) 17.20 degrees Celsius

Ans : C) 17.15 degrees Celsius
The global average surface air temperature reached 17.15 degrees Celsius.

World Environment Day- June 5

World Environment Day is celebrated annually on June 5 to encourages awareness and action for the protection of the environment. This United Nations day is supported by many non-governmental organizations, businesses, and government entities.

The theme for World Environment Day 2024 is “Land restoration, desertification & drought resilience”. It focuses on #GenerationRestoration, emphasizing the importance of growing forests, reviving water sources, and bringing back soils.

Q: When do we celebrate World Environment Day every year?

A) January 1
B) April 22
C) June 5
D) September 21

Correct Answer: C) June 5

Q: What is the primary cause of ozone depletion in the Earth’s atmosphere?

A) Carbon dioxide (CO₂)
B) Methane (CH₄)
C) Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
D) Nitrous oxide (N₂O)

Correct Answer: C) Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)

Q: Which gas is responsible for the greenhouse effect?

A) Oxygen (O₂)
B) Nitrogen (N₂)
C) Carbon dioxide (CO₂)
D) Argon (Ar)

Correct Answer: C) Carbon dioxide (CO₂)

Onset Of Southwest Monsoon In Kerala : IMD

Southwest Monsoon rains began in Kerala, India on June 30, 2024, as reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Typically, monsoon rains start in Kerala around June 1 and spread across the country by mid-July, aiding the planting of major crops like rice, corn, cotton, soybeans, and sugarcane.

  • Monsoon rains provide 70% of India’s annual water supply, vital for farming and replenishing water sources.
  • About half of India’s farmland relies solely on monsoon rains for irrigation.
  • Overall monsoon rainfall this year is predicted to be 106% of the long-term average.
  • The IMD classifies normal rainfall as 96% to 104% of a 50-year average of 87 cm (35 inches) for the June-September period.

Q: Which major crops are aided by the monsoon rains in India?

A) Wheat, barley, oats, and rye
B) Rice, corn, cotton, soybeans, and sugarcane
C) Potatoes, tomatoes, onions, and garlic
D) Apples, oranges, bananas, and mangoes

Answer: B) Rice, corn, cotton, soybeans, and sugarcane

Q: What is the 50-year average rainfall for the June-September period, according to the IMD?

A) 70 cm (28 inches)
B) 80 cm (32 inches)
C) 87 cm (35 inches)
D) 100 cm (40 inches)

Answer: C) 87 cm (35 inches)

Q.: By when do the southwest monsoon rains typically spread across the whole country?

A) Mid-June
B) End of June
C) Mid-July
D) End of July

Answer: C) Mid-July

52.9°C in Mungeshpur, Delhi on May 29, 2024, could be due to a sensor error or local factors

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) clarified that the recorded temperature of 52.9°C in Mungeshpur, Delhi on May 29, 2024, could be due to a sensor error or local factors.

  • It was reported the highest temperature reading ever recorded in Delhi and India.
  • IMD is currently examining the data and sensors as the Mungeshpur reading is an outlier compared to other stations.
  • IMD has five major climate stations in Safdarjung, Palam, Ayanagar, Ridge, and Lodi Road, which should be used to determine trends and extremes.
  • Minister of Earth Sciences, Kiren Rijiju, stated that the Mungeshpur temperature is not yet official and is very unlikely, with senior IMD officials asked to verify the report.

Q: What did the India Meteorological Department (IMD) clarify about the temperature reading of 52.9°C in Mungeshpur, Delhi on May 29, 2024?

  • A. It was officially confirmed
  • B. It could be due to a sensor error or local factor
  • C. It was recorded in all major stations
  • D. It is normal temperature

Ans : B. It could be due to a sensor error or local factor

Cyclone Remal : Landfall around midnight on May 26, 2024 in West Bangal

Cyclone Remal is the first pre-monsoon cyclone of 2024 in the Bay of Bengal. The landfall is expected between Sagar Island (West Bengal) and Khepupara (Bangladesh) around midnight on May 26, 2024.

Impact Areas:

  • West Bengal: Heavy to very heavy rain in South and North 24 Parganas, Purba Medinipur, Kolkata, Howrah, and Hooghly on May 26-27.
  • Odisha: North Odisha will experience impacts on May 26-27.
  • Northeast India: Extremely heavy precipitation on May 27-28.
  • Specific districts in West Bengal (Paschim Medinipur, Purba Bardhaman, Nadia) to receive heavy rain on May 26-27.

Alerts and Warnings:

  • Red Alert: Coastal districts of South and North 24 Parganas in West Bengal, with wind speeds of 100-110 km/h on May 26 and 90-100 km/h on May 27, along with extremely heavy rainfall.
  • Orange Alert: Kolkata, Howrah, and Purba Medinipur districts, with wind speeds of 80-90 km/h on May 26 and 70-80 km/h on May 27, with heavy to very heavy rain.
  • Yellow Warning: Isolated places in Balasore, Odisha, may receive heavy to very heavy rainfall (7-20 cm) on May 26.

Q: What is the name of the first pre-monsoon cyclone of 2024 in the Bay of Bengal, make landfall on 26 May 2024?

A) Cyclone Fani
B) Cyclone Amphan
C) Cyclone Yaas
D) Cyclone Remal

Ans : D) Cyclone Remal

Monsoon will arrive in Kerala towards the end of May : IMD

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts the south-west monsoon will likely arrive in Kerala towards the end of this month (May 2024).

Kerala has been experiencing sporadic rains recently. These rains have significantly reduced the temperature in the state.

Q: Which monsoon normally set in over Kerala towards the end of May / first week of June every year?

A) North-east monsoon
B) South-west monsoon
C) Winter monsoon
D) Summer monsoon

Answer: B) South-west monsoon

Powerful Solar Storm hit Earth causing Celestial Light Displays in Skies from Australia to Britain

An unusually powerful solar storm hit Earth on the night of May 10, causing celestial light displays from Australia to Britain. The solar storm poses a threat of potential disruptions to Earth’s communications networks, satellites, and power grids as it continues into the weekend.

  1. The solar storm was caused by coronal mass ejections (CMEs), expulsions of plasma and magnetic fields from the Sun.
  2. It was upgraded to an ‘extreme’ geomagnetic storm, the first since the ‘Halloween Storms’ of October 2003.
  3. More Coronal Mass Ejections are expected to impact the planet in the upcoming days.
  4. Social media was filled with images of auroras from northern Europe to Australia, New Zealand, and neighboring islands in the Pacific Ocean.
  5. The solar flares originated from a large cluster of sunspots, 17 times wider than Earth.
  6. The Sun is nearing the peak of an 11-year cycle, resulting in increased solar activity.
  7. Fluctuating magnetic fields during geomagnetic storms can create currents in long wires, potentially causing power outages and issues in engineering.
  8. Spacecraft are vulnerable to high levels of radiation during solar storms, but Earth’s atmosphere shields the planet.
  9. Pigeons and other species with internal biological compasses may be impacted by geomagnetic storms.
  10. The Carrington Event, the most powerful geomagnetic storm in recorded history, occurred in September 1859.

Q: What caused the powerful solar storm that hit Earth on May 10, 2024?

a) Solar flares
b) Coronal mass ejections (CMEs)
c) Lunar eclipse
d) Solar eclipse

Ans : b) Coronal mass ejections (CMEs)

Q:What is the approximate frequency of the solar activity cycle mentioned in the passage?

a) 7 years
b) 11 years
c) 50 years
d) 100 years

Ans : b) 11 years

World Earth Day, observed on April 22

World Earth Day, observed annually on April 22, is a global event dedicated to environmental protection.

Origins and Purpose:

  • The first Earth Day was organized on April 22, 1970, by EARTHDAY.ORG (formerly Earth Day Network).
  • It mobilized millions of Americans from diverse backgrounds, marking the birth of the modern environmental movement.
  • Earth Day aims to raise awareness, inspire action, and advocate for a sustainable future.
  • Earth Day is now celebrated in over 193 countries, involving more than 1 billion people.
  • It serves as a reminder of our responsibility to protect Earth’s natural resources for future generations.

2024 Theme: Planet vs. Plastics:

Theme for Earth Day 2024 is “Planet vs. Plastics.” The goal is to end plastics for human and planetary health by demanding a 60% reduction in plastic production by 2040.

Q: Which day is celebrated as World Earth Day?

A) 21 August
B) 22 April
C) 21 December
D) 22 May

Ans : B) 22 April

Q: What was the theme of World Earth Day 2024?

A) End Plastic Pollution
B) Ecosystem Restoration
C) Time for Nature
D) Planet vs. Plastics

Ans : D) Planet vs. Plastics

Begusarai in Bihar is world’s most polluted metropolitan area.

According to Air Quality Report 2023 conducted by Swiss organisation IQAir, Begusarai in Bihar has been identified as the world’s most polluted metropolitan area. New Delhi remains the world’s most polluted capital city for the fourth consecutive year since 2018.

  • The Air Quality Report 2023 by Swiss organization IQAir reveals that Delhi’s PM2.5 levels increased from 89.1 micrograms per cubic meter in 2022 to 92.7 micrograms per cubic meter in 2023.
  • India ranks third in terms of air quality, with an average annual PM2.5 concentration of 54.4 micrograms per cubic meter, following Bangladesh and Pakistan.
  • Over one billion people in India are exposed to PM2.5 levels surpassing the World Health Organization’s recommended annual guideline level of 5 micrograms per cubic meter.

Q: Which city has been ranked as the world’s most polluted capital city for four consecutive years since 2018?

a) Mumbai
b) New Delhi
c) Beijing
d) Tokyo

Ans : b) New Delhi

Q: Which Indian city has emerged as the world’s most polluted metropolitan area?

a) Mumbai
b) Kolkata
c) Chennai
d) Begusarai

Ans : d) Begusarai

Female cheetah Gamini gives birth to five cubs in Kuno National Park

Female cheetah Gamini, originally from South Africa, gave birth to five cubs in Kuno National Park on March 10, 2024.

  1. Gamini is approximately five years old.
  2. This brings the total count of Indian-born cheetah cubs to 13.
  3. The current population of cheetahs in Kuno National Park, including the new cubs, is twenty-six.
  4. The cheetah reintroduction project involved releasing eight Namibian cheetahs (five females and three males) into enclosures at Kuno National Park on September 17, 2022.
  5. In February 2023, an additional 12 cheetahs were brought to the park from South Africa, including Gamini.

Q: Which female cheetah recently (in March 2024) gave birth to five cubs in Kuno National Park?

a) Gauri
b) Gamini
c) Chitra
d) Laila

Ans : b) Gamini

Leopard population in the country has increased by more than 1,000 in last four years

The leopard population in the country has increased by more than one thousand from 2018 to 2022.

  1. The Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Ministry released a report indicating the leopard population has reached 13,874, up from 12,852 in 2018.
  2. Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav released the report in New Delhi.
  3. Central India, particularly Madhya Pradesh, recorded the highest leopard population with 3,907 individuals.
  4. The fifth cycle leopard population estimation was conducted by the National Tiger Conservation Authority and Wildlife Institute of India in collaboration with State Forest Departments.
  5. This exercise is crucial for conservation efforts, highlighting the importance of Protected Areas in conserving leopard populations.

Q: Which Indian state recorded the highest leopard population according to the report?

a) Rajasthan
b) Kerala
c) Madhya Pradesh
d) Uttar Pradesh

Ans : c) Madhya Pradesh

India has 718 snow leopards, as per first-ever Snow Leopard Population Assessment

 The first-ever Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India (SPAI) has been released on 30 January 2024.

  • First-ever scientific assessment: Conducted over 70% of potential snow leopard range in India (4 years).
  • Population estimate: 718 snow leopards in India, highest in Ladakh (477) followed by Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Jammu and Kashmir.
  • Habitat: Occupancy recorded in over 93,000 sq km, estimated presence in over 100,000 sq km.

Q: What is the estimated total number of snow leopards in India according to first-ever Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India (SPAI) ?

a) 500
b) 718
c) 1000
d) 2000

Ans : b) 718

Q: Which state has the highest number of snow leopards in India as per the Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India (SPAI)?

a) Uttarakhand
b) Himachal Pradesh
c) Ladakh
d) Sikkim

Ans : c) Ladakh – highest in Ladakh (477)

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