Wayanad Landslide Disaster    
Ismail Haniyeh Assassination    
Delhi Coaching Centre Tragedy    
UPSC Candidature Cancellation    
India's Moon Mission: Chandrayaan-3    
Environmental Conservation: New Tiger Census Report

1.    Wayanad Landslide Disaster
Why in News:
•    Death Toll: The death toll from landslides in the Chooralmala and Mundakkai areas of Wayanad district, Kerala, has crossed 200.
•    Search and Rescue: Extensive operations are underway involving multiple agencies.
Overview of the Incident:
Introduction:
•    Cause: Triggered by heavy monsoon rains.
•    Affected Areas: Chooralmala and Mundakkai in Wayanad district.
Details:
•    Casualties: Over 200 people have died, with 191 still missing.
•    Rescued: 1,592 people have been rescued.
•    Agencies Involved: Army, Defence Security Corps, NDRF, Forest Department, and Fire and Rescue Services.
Background Facts:
Geography of Wayanad:
•    Location: Western Ghats, prone to landslides due to steep slopes and heavy rainfall.
Previous Incidents:
•    History: Kerala has a history of landslides, notably the 2018 Kerala floods and landslides.
Monsoon Rains:
•    Season: The Southwest Monsoon (June to September) often leads to natural disasters like floods and landslides.
Statistical Data on Landslides:
Frequency and Impact:
•    Common in Western Ghats: Significant loss of life and property damage during the monsoon season.
Recent Incidents:
•    Past Decade: Major landslides in 2018, 2019, and 2024.
Response and Rescue:

•    Multi-agency Involvement: National and state-level disaster response teams are engaged in rescue operations.
Disaster Management Framework in India:
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA):
•    Role: Provides guidelines for disaster preparedness and response, including landslide risk mitigation.
State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs):
•    Implementation: Coordinate state-level response based on NDMA guidelines.
Community Awareness Programs:
•    Importance: Educating residents in high-risk areas about safety measures and evacuation plans.
Indian Meteorological Department (IMD):
Role:
•    Forecasts: Provides weather forecasts and warnings to mitigate the impact of natural disasters.
Recent Alerts:
•    Warnings: Issued warnings for heavy rainfall in Kerala, crucial for timely evacuations.
Static Portion:
Landslide-Prone Areas in India:
•    Regions: Western Ghats, Himalayan region, and northeastern states are particularly vulnerable due to their topography and climatic conditions.
Disaster Management Framework in India:
•    Roles: NDMA and SDMAs play crucial roles in disaster risk reduction and response.
Key Facts:
Casualties:
•    Deaths: Over 200 people have lost their lives.
•    Missing: Many others still missing.
Rescue Operations:
•    Efforts: Extensive search and rescue operations by multiple agencies.

Impact on Communities:
•    Destruction: Significant destruction to homes and infrastructure, displacing thousands of people.
Causes of Landslides:
Natural Factors:
•    Heavy Rainfall
•    Seismic Activity
•    Natural Topography Human Activities:
•    Deforestation
•    Construction Activities
•    Unplanned Urbanization Impact of the Landslide:
Human Lives:
•    Loss and Injuries: Significant loss of life and injuries.
Infrastructure:
•    Destruction: Homes, roads, and other infrastructure damaged.
Environment:
•    Loss: Vegetation and disturbance to wildlife habitats.
Disaster Management and Mitigation Measures:
Early Warning Systems:
•    Implementation: Advanced warning systems to alert residents.
Infrastructure Planning:
•    Safety Standards: Ensuring construction in hilly regions adheres to strict safety standards.
Reforestation:
•    Stabilization: Promoting planting of trees to stabilize slopes.
Community Awareness:

•    Education: Educating local communities on how to respond during a landslide.
Conclusion:
The Wayanad landslide disaster underscores the need for comprehensive disaster management strategies. Understanding the geographical and human factors contributing to such disasters is crucial for implementing effective measures to protect vulnerable communities. Integrating disaster risk reduction into development planning, especially in high-risk areas like the Western Ghats, is essential.
Prelims Question
Question: With reference to the Wayanad landslide disaster, consider the following statements:
1.    Wayanad is located in the Eastern Ghats, a region prone to landslides.
2.    The 2024 landslides in Wayanad were triggered by heavy monsoon rains.
3.    The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) was involved in the rescue operations.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: B) 2 and 3 only
Mains Question
Q: Discuss the causes and impacts of the Wayanad landslide disaster. What measures can be taken to mitigate the risk of such disasters in the future? (15 Marks, 250 Words)

2.    Ismail Haniyeh Assassination
Why in News:
•    Event: Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was killed in a pre-dawn airstrike in Tehran, Iran.
•    Responsible Party: The airstrike was reportedly carried out by Israel.
Overview of the Incident:
Introduction:
•    Target: Ismail Haniyeh, a senior leader of Hamas.
•    Location: Tehran, Iran.

•    Context: Occurred shortly after Haniyeh attended the inauguration of Iran’s new President.
Details:
•    Action: The airstrike was reportedly conducted by Israel.
•    Impact: The incident has escalated regional tensions, with Iran’s supreme leader vowing revenge against Israel.
Background Facts:
Hamas:
•    Nature: Palestinian Sunni-Islamic fundamentalist organization.
•    Founding: 1987.
•    Role: Controls the Gaza Strip and has significant influence in Palestinian politics.
•    Conflict: Involved in multiple conflicts with Israel.
Ismail Haniyeh:
•    Position: Senior leader and former Prime Minister of the Palestinian Authority.
•    Role: Crucial in the political and military strategies of Hamas.
Regional Tensions:
•    Middle East: A hotbed of conflict, particularly between Israel and Palestine.
•    Iran’s Support: Strong supporter of Hamas, providing financial and military aid.
Statistical Data on Middle East Conflicts:
Frequency and Impact:
•    Israel-Palestine Conflict: Numerous wars, intifadas, and casualties over the years.
•    Result: Significant loss of life, displacement, and economic hardship.
Recent Incidents:
•    Assassinations: Often lead to retaliatory actions and escalate tensions.
•    Cycles of Violence: Major escalations in 2008, 2014, and 2021.
International Relations and Implications:
Israel's Actions:
•    Strategy: History of targeting Hamas leaders as part of its counter-terrorism measures.

•    View: Considers Hamas a significant security threat.
Iran’s Role:
•    Support: Financial, weapons, and training support to Hamas.
•    Geopolitical Dynamics: Complicates the geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East.
Global Reactions:
•    Regional Instability: Could lead to increased instability and potential involvement of other nations.
•    International Calls: United Nations and other bodies often call for restraint and dialogue.
Static Portion:
Middle East Conflicts:
•    Historical Context: Key events like the Six-Day War (1967), Oslo Accords (1993), and the Gaza War (2008-09).
International Relations:
•    Major Powers: Role of the United States, Russia, and the European Union in the Middle East.
•    Peace Initiatives: Camp David Accords (1978) and Abraham Accords (2020).
Key Facts:
Target:
•    Ismail Haniyeh: Senior Hamas leader.
Location:
•    Tehran, Iran. Perpetrators:
•    Reportedly Israel. Immediate Reactions:
•    Iran: Supreme leader vowed revenge against Israel.
•    Regional Conflicts: Potential to escalate conflicts further.
Causes of Regional Tensions: Historical Conflicts:
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•    Long-standing Conflict: Dates back to the mid-20th century, marked by wars and ongoing violence.
Support for Hamas:
•    Iran’s Role: Financial and military support exacerbates tensions between Israel and Iran.
Geopolitical Dynamics:
•    Power Players: Israel, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey each have their interests in the region.
Impact of the Assassination:
Human Lives:
•    Retaliatory Actions: Often lead to further loss of life.
Regional Stability:
•    Destabilization: Such incidents can destabilize the region, leading to increased violence and potential military conflicts.
Global Reactions:
•    International Community: Typically calls for restraint and peaceful resolution of conflicts.
Measures for Mitigation and Peace:
Diplomatic Efforts:
•    Dialogue: Encouraging dialogue between conflicting parties and involving international mediators.
Economic Sanctions and Incentives:
•    Economic Measures: Using sanctions and incentives to pressure parties into negotiations.
Support for Civil Society:
•    Peace and Reconciliation: Strengthening civil society organizations that promote peace.
Conclusion:
The assassination of Ismail Haniyeh underscores the need for comprehensive strategies to address the underlying causes of conflict in the Middle East. Effective measures must

include diplomatic efforts, economic strategies, and support for civil society to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region.
Prelims Question
Question: With reference to Ismail Haniyeh's assassination, consider the following statements:
1.    Ismail Haniyeh was a senior leader of Hamas.
2.    The airstrike took place in Tehran, Iran.
3.    Hamas controls the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
4.    Iran is a strong supporter of Hamas.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1, 2, and 4 only
B)    1, 2, and 3 only
C)    1 and 4 only
D)    1, 2, 3, and 4
Answer: A) 1, 2, and 4 only
Mains Question
Q: Analyze the implications of the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh on regional stability in the Middle East. Discuss the role of international diplomacy in mitigating such conflicts. (15 Marks, 250 Words)

3.    Delhi Coaching Centre Tragedy
Why in News:
•    Event: Three IAS aspirants drowned in the basement of a coaching center in Old Rajinder Nagar, Delhi, due to flooding caused by heavy rain.
•    Response: Incident prompted arrests and the sealing of several coaching centers for violations.
Overview of the Incident:
Introduction:
•    Location: Coaching center in Old Rajinder Nagar, a hub for civil services exam preparation.
•    Cause: Deaths due to flooding in the basement during heavy monsoon rains.

Details:
•    Safety Violations: Basements of 19 coaching centers sealed for violating safety regulations.
•    Arrests: Total of seven arrests made related to the incident.
•    Government Action: Union Home Ministry formed a committee to investigate and suggest policy changes.
Background Facts:
Urban Flooding:
•    Common Issue: Increasingly common in Indian cities due to inadequate drainage, rapid urbanization, and climate change.
•    Previous Incidents: Delhi has faced several incidents, notably in 2018 and 2020, causing significant disruption and damage.
Safety Regulations:
•    Building Codes: Typically restrict the use of basements to storage, parking, and utilities to prevent such incidents.
Statistical Data on Urban Flooding:
Frequency and Impact:
•    Rise in Incidents: Increasing frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change.
•    Affected Cities: Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai frequently face severe urban flooding.
Response and Rescue:
•    Agencies Involved: National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and other agencies involved in rescue and relief operations.
Disaster Management Framework in India:
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA):
•    Guidelines: Provides guidelines for disaster preparedness and response, including urban flood management.
State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs):
•    Implementation: Responsible for implementing NDMA guidelines and coordinating state-level responses.
Community Awareness Programs:

•    Education: Essential for educating residents about safety measures and evacuation plans during floods.
Delhi’s Urban Governance:
Unique Administrative Structure:
•    Authorities: Involves overlapping authorities, including the Delhi government and the Lieutenant Governor (L-G).
Master Plan for Delhi 2021:
•    Basement Usage: Specifies permissible uses of basements, typically restricting them to storage, parking, and utilities.
Static Portion:
Urban Planning:
•    Building Codes: Importance of following building codes and regular inspections to ensure safety.
Disaster Management:
•    Policies: Policies and measures for managing urban floods, including improving drainage systems and implementing early warning systems.
Key Facts:
Casualties:
•    Deaths: Three IAS aspirants drowned in the basement.
Government Response:
•    Committee Formation: Union Home Ministry formed a committee to investigate and suggest policy changes.
Safety Violations:
•    Sealed Basements: Basements of 19 coaching centers were sealed due to safety regulation violations.
Analysis and Implications:
Causes of Urban Flooding:
Natural Factors:
•    Heavy Monsoon Rains: Significant contributor to urban flooding.
•    Climate Change: Induces extreme weather events.

Human Activities:
•    Poor Urban Planning: Leads to inadequate drainage systems.
•    Encroachment: On natural drainage channels exacerbates flooding.
•    Inadequate Maintenance: Of existing drainage systems.
Impact of the Incident:
Human Lives:
•    Loss of Life: Tragic drowning of three IAS aspirants.
Infrastructure:
•    Damage: Buildings and infrastructure affected by flooding.
Public Safety:
•    Risk: Increased risk to residents, especially those in basements and low-lying areas.
Disaster Management and Mitigation Measures:
Early Warning Systems:
•    Implementation: Advanced warning systems to alert residents of potential flooding.
Infrastructure Planning:
•    Drainage Systems: Ensuring urban infrastructure can handle heavy rainfall.
Regular Inspections:
•    Compliance: Regular inspections to ensure buildings comply with safety regulations.
Public Awareness:
•    Education: Informing residents about the risks of urban flooding and necessary safety measures.
Conclusion:
The Delhi coaching center tragedy highlights the urgent need for comprehensive urban planning and effective disaster management strategies. Addressing the causes of urban flooding and enforcing stringent safety regulations are essential to protect residents and infrastructure from such disasters.
Prelims Question:
Question: With reference to urban flooding in Indian cities, consider the following statements:

1.    Urban flooding is primarily caused by inadequate drainage systems and poor urban planning.
2.    The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is involved in rescue operations during urban flooding.
3.    The Master Plan for Delhi 2021 restricts basement usage to storage, parking, and utilities.
4.    Climate change has no impact on the frequency of urban flooding.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    1, 2, and 3 only
C)    3 and 4 only
D)    1, 2, 3, and 4
Answer: B) 1, 2, and 3 only
Mains Question:
Q: Discuss the factors contributing to urban flooding in Indian cities and suggest measures for effective urban flood management. (15 Marks, 250 Words)

4.    UPSC Candidature Cancellation
Why in News:
•    Event: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has canceled the candidature of IAS probationer Puja Khedkar for submitting false certificates.
•    Action: Puja Khedkar has been permanently debarred from future UPSC exams.
Overview of the Incident:
Introduction:
•    Individual: Puja Khedkar, an IAS probationer.
•    Issue: Found guilty of submitting fake Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) and Other Backward Class (OBC) certificates.
Details:
•    UPSC Action: Strict measures taken by canceling her candidature and debarring her from future exams.

•    Significance: Emphasizes the importance of integrity and transparency in the civil services selection process.
Background Facts:
UPSC Examination:
•    Purpose: Conducts the Civil Services Examination (CSE) annually to recruit officers for various services like IAS, IPS, and IFS.
•    Process: The examination is rigorous, consisting of Preliminary, Mains, and Interview stages.
Eligibility Criteria:
•    Document Verification: Candidates must submit valid documents proving their eligibility, including certificates for age, education, and reservation categories.
Previous Cases:
•    Rarity: Instances of candidates submitting fake documents are relatively rare due to stringent verification processes.
Statistical Data on UPSC Examinations:
Number of Candidates:
•    Applications: Over 1 million candidates apply for the UPSC CSE every year, with only a few thousand making it to the final list.
Verification Process:
•    Robust System: Ensures the authenticity of documents submitted by candidates.
Impact of Fake Certificates:
•    Undermines Integrity: Fake certificates compromise the integrity of the examination process and deprive deserving candidates.
Legal and Ethical Implications:
Legal Framework:
•    Criminal Offense: Submitting fake documents is a criminal offense under Indian law, punishable by imprisonment and fines.
•    Indian Penal Code (IPC): Has provisions for dealing with forgery and fraudulent documents.
Ethical Considerations:

•    Fundamental Values: Integrity and honesty are fundamental values expected from civil servants.
•    Ethical Standards: Such incidents raise questions about the ethical standards of individuals entering public service.
UPSC’s Role and Measures:
Stringent Verification:
•    Enhanced Processes: Strengthened verification process to detect and prevent the submission of fake documents.
Policy Changes:
•    Regular Updates: Regular reviews and updates of policies to enhance transparency and fairness.
Awareness Programs:
•    Education: UPSC conducts programs to educate candidates about the importance of submitting genuine documents and the consequences of forgery.
Static Portion:
UPSC Structure:
•    Constitutional Body: Established under Article 315 of the Indian Constitution.
•    Responsibilities: Conducts examinations for appointments to the civil services and other posts.
Civil Services Examination:
•    Prestigious Exam: One of the most prestigious and competitive exams in India, comprising three stages: Preliminary, Mains, and Interview.
Reservation Policies:
•    Equitable Representation: Government of India provides reservations for SC, ST, OBC, and PwBD candidates.
Key Facts:
Candidature Cancellation:
•    Action: Puja Khedkar’s candidature was canceled for submitting false PwBD and OBC certificates.
Debarment:

•    Future Exams: She has been permanently debarred from appearing in future UPSC exams.
UPSC’s Stance:
•    Commitment: The strict action underscores UPSC’s commitment to maintaining integrity and transparency in the selection process.
Analysis and Implications:
Causes of the Incident:
Fraudulent Practices:
•    Fake Documents: Submission of fake documents to claim undue advantage in reservation categories.
Verification Lapses:
•    Need for Improvement: Despite stringent processes, occasional lapses necessitate continuous improvements.
Impact of the Incident:
Integrity of the Examination:
•    Public Trust: Compromising the examination process undermines public trust in the UPSC’s credibility.
Deserving Candidates:
•    Opportunity Deprivation: Fake certificates deprive deserving candidates of their rightful opportunities.
Public Service Standards:
•    Governance Impact: Entry of individuals with compromised ethics can adversely affect governance.
UPSC’s Measures and Response:
Stringent Verification:
•    Robust Process: Enhanced verification to detect and prevent submission of fake documents.
Policy Updates:
•    Transparency: Regular review and updates of policies to enhance transparency and fairness.
Awareness Campaigns:

•    Education: Conducting programs to educate candidates about the importance of genuine documents.
Conclusion:
The UPSC’s decision to cancel Puja Khedkar’s candidature and debar her from future exams underscores its commitment to maintaining high standards of integrity and transparency in the civil services selection process. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to ethical standards and the severe consequences of attempting to undermine the system.
Prelims Question:
Question: With reference to the UPSC Civil Services Examination, consider the following statements:
1.    The UPSC Civil Services Examination consists of three stages: Preliminary, Mains, and Interview.
2.    Submitting fake documents for UPSC exams is a criminal offense under the Indian Penal Code.
3.    The UPSC provides reservations for SC, ST, OBC, and PwBD candidates.
4.    The UPSC does not conduct any verification of documents submitted by candidates.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1, 2, and 3 only
B)    1 and 2 only
C)    3 and 4 only
D)    1, 2, 3, and 4
Answer: A) 1, 2, and 3 only
Mains Question:
Q: Discuss the implications of submitting false certificates in the UPSC Civil Services Examination on the integrity of the selection process and the standards of public service. (15 Marks, 250 Words)

5.    India's Moon Mission: Chandrayaan-3
Why in News:
•    Event: ISRO’s Chandrayaan-3 successfully completed a key lunar orbit maneuver, marking a significant milestone in India’s space exploration efforts.

Overview of the Mission:
Introduction:
•    Chandrayaan-3: India’s third lunar exploration mission, developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
•    Aim: To demonstrate end-to-end capability in safe landing and roving on the lunar surface.
Details:
•    Lunar Orbit Maneuver: Crucial for the spacecraft’s subsequent phases, including landing on the Moon’s surface.
•    Configuration: Includes a lander and rover, similar to Chandrayaan-2 but without an orbiter.
Background Facts:
Previous Missions:
•    Chandrayaan-1 (2008):
o    Achievement: India’s first lunar mission, discovered evidence of water molecules on the Moon’s surface.
•    Chandrayaan-2 (2019):
o    Components: Orbiter, lander (Vikram), and rover (Pragyan).
o    Outcome: Lander failed to make a soft landing, but the orbiter continues to relay valuable data.
Chandrayaan-3 Objectives:
•    Soft Landing: Achieve a soft landing on the Moon.
•    Rover Deployment: Conduct scientific experiments on the lunar surface.
Statistical Data on Chandrayaan-3:
•    Mission Cost: Approximately ₹615 crore (around $75 million USD).
•    Technical Specifications:
o Lander: Equipped with advanced sensors and instruments for a safe landing.
o    Rover: Designed to analyze the lunar soil and surface composition.
Scientific and Technological Implications: Lunar Exploration:

•    Objective: Expand understanding of the Moon’s surface and geological composition.
Technological Advancements:
•    Demonstration: Showcases India’s growing capabilities in space technology and exploration.
International Collaboration:
•    ISRO: Collaborates with various international space agencies, sharing data and expertise.
ISRO’s Role and Achievements:
ISRO Overview:
•    Role: India’s national space agency responsible for space research and exploration.
Major Achievements:
•    Notable Missions: Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission), Chandrayaan-1, Chandrayaan-2.
Future Plans:
•    Explorations: Further lunar missions, interplanetary explorations, and enhanced satellite technology.
Static Portion:
Lunar Missions Worldwide:
•    Examples: NASA’s Apollo missions, China’s Chang’e missions, Russia’s Luna missions.
Space Exploration Benefits:
•    Advancements: Technology improvements, enhanced global cooperation, better understanding of celestial bodies.
Space Policies:
•    India’s Focus: Peaceful use of outer space, international collaboration, development of indigenous technology.
Key Facts:
•    Mission Name: Chandrayaan-3, India’s third lunar mission.
•    Agency: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
•    Objective: Achieve a successful soft landing and deploy a rover on the lunar surface. 
•    Significance: Crucial step in India’s space exploration and scientific research capabilities.
Analysis and Implications:
Objectives and Significance:
•    Lunar Landing: Achieving a soft landing on the Moon is a critical technological milestone for India.
•    Rover Deployment: Conduct scientific experiments, including analyzing lunar soil and surface composition.
•    Technological Demonstration: Showcases advancements in space technology and exploration capabilities.
Previous Missions and Learnings:
•    Chandrayaan-1 (2008): Provided significant discoveries, including evidence of water molecules on the Moon’s surface.
•    Chandrayaan-2 (2019): Despite the lander’s failure, the orbiter continues to provide valuable data.
Scientific and Technological Implications:
•    Lunar Exploration: Expanding our understanding of the Moon’s surface and geological composition.
•    Technological Advancements: Demonstrating advanced capabilities in spacecraft design, landing technology, and rover operations.
•    International Collaboration: Enhancing global cooperation in space exploration by sharing data and expertise with other space agencies.
Prelims Question:
Question: With reference to ISRO’s Chandrayaan-3 mission, consider the following statements:
1.    Chandrayaan-3 includes an orbiter, lander, and rover.
2.    The mission aims to achieve a soft landing on the Moon.
3.    Chandrayaan-3’s primary objective is to collect samples from the lunar surface.
4.    Chandrayaan-3 is India’s first lunar exploration mission.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A)    1 and 2 only
B)    2 only
C)    3 and 4 only
D)    1, 2, and 3 Answer: B) 2 only Mains Question:
Q: Discuss the significance of Chandrayaan-3 for India's space exploration capabilities. How does this mission build upon the achievements and learnings from Chandrayaan-1 and Chandrayaan-2? (15 Marks, 250 Words)

6.    Environmental Conservation: New Tiger Census Report
Why in News:
•    Event: A new tiger census report has been released, showing a slight increase in the tiger population in India, highlighting the success of ongoing conservation efforts.
Overview of the Report:
Introduction:
•    Tiger Census: Part of the All India Tiger Estimation, conducted every four years by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and the Wildlife Institute of India (WII).
•    Positive Trend: The latest report indicates a slight increase in the tiger population across various reserves in India.
Details:
•    Current Estimate: The report provides an estimate of the current tiger population, assesses the health of tiger habitats, and evaluates the effectiveness of conservation measures.
•    Highlighted Regions: Specific regions and tiger reserves showing significant improvements are noted.
Background Facts:
Tiger Population:
•    Global Significance: India is home to approximately 70% of the world’s tiger population, making it crucial for global tiger conservation efforts.
•    IUCN Status: The tiger is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
Previous Trends:
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•    Historical Decline: The tiger population in India had been in decline due to habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.
•    Recent Growth: The 2006 census recorded around 1,411 tigers, increasing to 2,967 in the 2018 census.
Statistical Data on Tiger Population:
•    Current Population: The latest census indicates approximately 3,167 tigers in India.
•    Regional Distribution: Significant populations are found in Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, and Maharashtra. Reserves showing notable increases include Corbett, Bandipur, and Kanha.
Conservation Efforts and Successes:
Project Tiger:
•    Launch: 1973
•    Aim: Ensures a viable population of tigers in their natural habitats.
Protected Areas:
•    Reserves: India has established 50 tiger reserves, covering a significant area of the country’s forested landscape.
Anti-Poaching Measures:
•    Strategies: Strengthening patrolling, intelligence gathering, and community engagement to prevent poaching.
Habitat Restoration:
•    Initiatives: Efforts to restore and connect fragmented habitats to allow for tiger movement and genetic diversity.
Community Involvement:
•    Engagement: Involving local communities in conservation efforts, providing alternative livelihoods, and reducing human-wildlife conflict.
Challenges and Future Directions:
Human-Wildlife Conflict:
•    Issue: Managing conflicts between tigers and local communities remains a significant challenge.
Habitat Fragmentation:

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•    Threat: Continued urbanization and infrastructure development pose threats to tiger habitats.
Climate Change:
•    Impact: Effects on tiger habitats and prey availability need to be addressed.
Static Portion:
Tiger Ecology:
•    Role: Tigers are apex predators and play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance in their habitats.
•    Preferred Habitats: Dense forests, grasslands, and mangrove swamps.
Conservation Laws:
•    Legislation: The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, provides legal protection to tigers and their habitats.
•    Authority: The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) oversees tiger conservation efforts in India.
Key Facts:
•    Tiger Population: Current estimated population is approximately 3,167 tigers.
•    Conservation Programs: Project Tiger and various state-led initiatives have contributed to the increase in tiger numbers.
•    Significant Reserves: Corbett, Bandipur, and Kanha are among the reserves showing notable population increases.
Analysis and Implications:
Objectives and Significance:
•    Lunar Landing: Achieving a soft landing on the Moon is a critical technological milestone for India.
•    Rover Deployment: Conduct scientific experiments, including analyzing lunar soil and surface composition.
•    Technological Demonstration: Showcasing advancements in space technology and exploration capabilities.
Previous Missions and Learnings:
•    Chandrayaan-1 (2008): Provided significant discoveries, including evidence of water molecules on the Moon’s surface.

•    Chandrayaan-2 (2019): Despite the lander’s failure, the orbiter continues to provide valuable data.
Scientific and Technological Implications:
•    Lunar Exploration: Expanding our understanding of the Moon’s surface and geological composition.
•    Technological Advancements: Demonstrating advanced capabilities in spacecraft design, landing technology, and rover operations.
•    International Collaboration: Enhancing global cooperation in space exploration by sharing data and expertise with other space agencies.
Prelims Question:
Question: With reference to the recent tiger census in India, consider the following statements:
1.    India is home to approximately 50% of the world’s tiger population.
2.    Project Tiger was launched in 1973 to ensure a viable population of tigers in their natural habitats.
3.    The latest census recorded approximately 3,167 tigers in India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: B) 2 and 3 only
Mains Question:
Q: Discuss the significance of the recent increase in India's tiger population. What factors have contributed to this growth, and what challenges remain for future conservation efforts? (15 Marks, 250 Words)