RBI FLAGS ECONOMIC GROWTH MODERATION AMID RISING INFLATION CONCERNS    
SUPREME COURT TO REVIEW PETITIONS FOR 100% VVPAT VERIFICATION AHEAD OF ELECTIONS    
INDIA’S TIGER POPULATION SEES MARGINAL INCREASE IN LATEST CENSUS REPORT    
CENTRE ANNOUNCES NEW RAIL PROJECTS FOR ODISHA DESPITE POLITICAL DIFFERENCES    
ODISHA’S MARINE POLICE UNDERSTAFFED AND ILL-EQUIPPED TO TACKLE COASTAL SECURITY CHALLENGES    
ODISHA AMONG TOP STATES FOR LIGHTNING DEATHS AS EXTREME WEATHER CONDITIONS INTENSIFY

1.RBI Flags Economic Growth Moderation Amid Rising Inflation Concerns
Why in News
•    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has raised concerns over the moderation of India’s economic growth amidst persistent inflationary pressures. This development has significant implications for the country’s economic stability and policy directions.
Overview of the Report
Q Introduction
•    The RBI’s report offers a critical assessment of India’s current economic conditions, focusing on key indicators like GDP growth and inflation.
•    It indicates that while India’s economy continues to grow, the pace has slowed compared to previous quarters, and inflation remains a persistent challenge.
Growth Moderation
•    Economic Growth:
o    The report notes a moderation in economic growth due to various factors, including global economic uncertainties, domestic challenges, and sector-specific issues.
o    Key sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, and services are showing signs of slower growth, which could impact overall GDP.
Inflation Concerns
•    Rising Inflation:
o    The report highlights rising inflation, particularly in essential commodities like
food and fuel.
o    Inflation is driven by supply chain disruptions, global price fluctuations, and domestic demand pressures.
•    Consumer Price Index (CPI):
o    The CPI has shown an upward trend, raising concerns about the cost of living and the purchasing power of consumers.
Q Background Facts
Economic Indicators
•    GDP Growth:
o    A critical measure of economic performance, GDP growth indicates the health and expansion of the economy. The recent slowdown suggests that the economy is facing headwinds that need to be addressed.
•    Inflation:
o    Measured by the CPI and Wholesale Price Index (WPI), inflation reflects the rate at which prices for goods and services increase. Persistent inflation can erode consumer purchasing power and increase the cost of living.
Previous Trends
•    Fluctuating Growth Rates:
o    India has experienced varying growth rates over the past decade, influenced by both domestic and international factors.
•    Recurring Inflation:

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o Inflation has been a recurring challenge, particularly during periods of economic uncertainty.
Statistical Data on Economic Growth and Inflation
•    Growth Rate:
o    Latest figures indicate that India’s GDP growth has slowed, with projections being revised downward by various economic bodies, including the RBI.
•    Inflation Rate:
o    The CPI has shown a consistent upward trend, with inflation rates hovering at uncomfortable levels for policymakers, particularly in food and fuel prices.
Economic Implications
Impact on Economy
•    Reduced Income Levels:
o    The moderation in growth could lead to reduced income levels, slower job creation, and potentially higher levels of poverty if not addressed through effective policy measures.
•    Risks to Economic Stability:
o    Rising inflation poses risks to economic stability, leading to higher interest rates, increased borrowing costs, and reduced consumer spending.
Policy Response
•    Monetary Policy:
o    The RBI may consider tightening monetary policy by raising interest rates to curb inflation, though this could further slow economic growth.
•    Fiscal Measures:
o    The government might need to implement fiscal measures, such as targeted subsidies or tax relief, to mitigate the impact of inflation on the most vulnerable sections of society.
Policy Measures and Government Initiatives
Monetary Policy
•    RBI Actions:
o    Adjusting interest rates, using open market operations, and managing liquidity to control inflation while supporting growth.
Fiscal Policy
•    Government Interventions:
o    Increasing public spending on infrastructure, social programs, and subsidies to stimulate demand and cushion the economy against external shocks.
Sector-Specific Interventions
•    Targeted Support:
o    Addressing sectoral issues in agriculture, manufacturing, and services to counter the economic slowdown.
Static Portion
•    Economic Theories
•    Keynesian Economics:

o Emphasizes the role of government intervention to stabilize the economy, particularly during periods of economic slowdown.
•    Monetarist Theories:
o    Focus on controlling the money supply to manage inflation, advocating for cautious use of monetary policy tools.
Institutions
•    RBI:
o    The central bank of India, responsible for regulating the country’s monetary policy, managing inflation, and ensuring economic stability.
•    Ministry of Finance:
o    Plays a crucial role in formulating and implementing fiscal policies to drive economic growth and manage public finances.
Key Facts
Growth Projections
•    GDP Growth:
o    India’s GDP growth is projected to slow, raising concerns over long-term economic sustainability if current trends persist.
Inflation Rates
•    Rising CPI:
o    The CPI is rising, driven by higher food and fuel prices, which could lead to broader economic challenges if not managed effectively.
Policy Recommendations
•    Balanced Approach:
o    The report suggests a balanced approach, combining monetary and fiscal measures to address both growth and inflation concerns.

Prelims Question
Question: With reference to the RBI's recent report on economic growth moderation and rising inflation, consider the following statements:
1.    The RBI has projected an increase in GDP growth for the upcoming fiscal year.
2.    The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is used to measure inflation in India.
3.    Rising inflation can lead to increased purchasing power of consumers. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 only
B)    2 only
C)    1 and 3 only
D)    2 and 3 only
Answer: B) 2 only
Mains Question
Question: Analyze the challenges posed by the moderation in economic growth and rising inflation in India. What measures can be taken by the RBI and the government to address these challenges while ensuring economic stability?

2. Supreme Court to Review Petitions for 100% VVPAT Verification Ahead of Elections
Why in News
•    The Supreme Court of India is set to review multiple petitions demanding 100% verification of Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) for the upcoming elections. This review addresses growing concerns about the integrity and transparency of the electoral process.
Overview of the Issue
Q Introduction
•    VVPAT System:
o    The VVPAT system is a crucial component of India’s electoral process, introduced to enhance transparency and build voter confidence in EVMs.
•    Petitions:
o    The petitions call for mandatory 100% cross-verification of VVPAT slips with EVM results, arguing that this step is essential to ensure the accuracy and integrity of election outcomes.
Details
•    Current Practice:
o    Currently, only a sample percentage of VVPAT slips are verified with EVM results in each constituency.
•    Arguments for 100% Verification:
o    Petitioners argue that 100% verification would eliminate doubts about EVM accuracy and ensure the legitimacy of the electoral process.
Q Background Facts
VVPAT System
•    Purpose:
o    The VVPAT system provides an additional layer of security and transparency by allowing voters to verify that their vote has been cast correctly. It generates a paper slip displayed to the voter for a few seconds before being securely stored.
Previous Court Rulings
•    Subramanian Swamy vs Election Commission of India (2019):
o    The Supreme Court directed the Election Commission to verify VVPAT slips from five randomly selected EVMs per Assembly segment in every constituency. This ruling was a compromise between ensuring electoral integrity and managing the logistical challenges of full-scale verification.
Statistical Data on VVPAT Verification
•    Current Verification Practice:
o    VVPAT slips from five EVMs per Assembly segment are cross-verified with EVM results. The Election Commission argues that this sampling method provides statistically significant assurance of EVM accuracy.
•    Logistical Challenges:

o Full-scale verification of VVPAT slips for all EVMs poses significant logistical and time-related challenges, potentially delaying election results.
Legal and Electoral Implications
Electoral Integrity
•    Concerns:
o    The demand for 100% VVPAT verification arises from concerns about the potential for EVM tampering or errors, despite assurances about machine reliability.
•    Transparency:
o    Ensuring full transparency and trust in the electoral process is critical, especially in a large and diverse democracy like India.
Supreme Court’s Role
•    Impact of Decision:
o    The Supreme Court’s decision will have far-reaching implications for the conduct of future elections, including the potential impact on the duration of the electoral process and the resources required.
Policy Measures and Recommendations
Election Commission’s Stance
•    Current Methodology:
o    The Election Commission maintains that the current sample verification method is sufficient to ensure the accuracy of election results.
•    Concerns Over Full Verification:
o    The Commission emphasizes that full-scale verification could lead to significant delays and logistical complications.
Possible Outcomes
•    Supreme Court Decision:
o    The Court could either uphold the current practice of sample verification or mandate a shift towards 100% verification, depending on the evidence presented and the Court’s assessment of the potential impact on electoral integrity.
Static Portion
Electoral Process in India
•    Election Commission of India:
o    The ECI is responsible for administering election processes in India at both the national and state levels. The introduction of EVMs and VVPATs represents a significant technological advancement in the electoral process, aimed at improving accuracy and transparency.
Legal Framework
•    Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961 and Representation of the People Act, 1951:
o    These laws provide the legal framework for the use of EVMs and VVPATs in Indian elections.
Key Facts
•    Current Practice:

o Verification of VVPAT slips from five EVMs per Assembly segment.
•    Supreme Court Review:
o    Petitions demand 100% verification of VVPAT slips with EVM results.
•    Impact:
o    The Court’s decision could have significant implications for the future conduct of elections in India.

Prelims Question
Question: With reference to Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) and Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in India, consider the following statements:
1.    The VVPAT system allows voters to verify that their vote has been cast correctly.
2.    As per the current practice, VVPAT slips from all EVMs are verified with the election results in every constituency.
3.    The Supreme Court has mandated 100% verification of VVPAT slips in all elections since 2019.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 only
B)    1 and 2 only
C)    2 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: A) 1 only
Mains Question
Question: Analyze the significance of the Supreme Court's role in ensuring electoral integrity through the review of VVPAT verification processes. What are the potential challenges and implications of implementing 100% VVPAT verification in India's elections?

3.India’s Tiger Population Sees Marginal Increase in Latest Census Report
Why in News
•    The latest tiger census report shows a marginal increase in India’s tiger population, indicating the positive impact of ongoing conservation efforts under initiatives like Project Tiger. However, it also highlights the challenges that remain in sustaining and further increasing tiger numbers.
Overview of the Census Report
Q Introduction
•    All India Tiger Estimation:
o    Conducted every four years, this is a comprehensive exercise to monitor the status of the tiger population across India.
•    Latest Report Findings:
o    The report indicates a slight increase in the tiger population, continuing the trend of recovery observed in recent years.

Details


•    Population Data:
o    The census estimates that India’s tiger population has increased to approximately
3,167, up from 2,967 in the 2018 census.
o    This increase, though marginal, is significant given the challenges like habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.
•    Regional Distribution:
o    States like Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, and Uttarakhand continue to have the highest tiger populations.
o    Some regions have shown stagnation or a slight decline, emphasizing the need for targeted conservation efforts.
Q Background Facts
India’s Role in Global Tiger Conservation
•    Global Significance:
o    India is home to nearly 70% of the world’s tiger population, making its conservation efforts crucial on a global scale.
•    Project Tiger:
o    Launched in 1973, Project Tiger is one of the world’s most successful conservation programs aimed at protecting tigers and their habitats.
Previous Trends
•    Historical Context:
o    The tiger population in India was critically low in the early 2000s, with estimates of around 1,411 tigers in 2006. Since then, focused conservation efforts have led to a gradual recovery.
Statistical Data on Tiger Population
•    Current Numbers:
o    The census reports an estimated population of 3,167 tigers, reflecting a marginal increase from the previous count.
•    Regional Focus:
o    Madhya Pradesh remains the state with the highest number of tigers, followed by Karnataka and Uttarakhand. Some states, however, have reported challenges in maintaining or increasing their tiger populations.
Conservation Efforts and Challenges
Success of Project Tiger
•    Role of Project Tiger:
o    Project Tiger has been pivotal in stabilizing and increasing tiger numbers through
habitat protection, anti-poaching measures, and community involvement.
Challenges
•    Ongoing Issues:
o    Despite successes, challenges like habitat fragmentation, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching persist.
•    Marginal Increase:
o    The marginal increase in tiger numbers suggests that while conservation efforts are yielding results, they need to be intensified and expanded.

Policy Measures and Recommendations
Strengthening Protected Areas
•    Protected Area Network:
o    The report emphasizes the need to further strengthen the existing network of tiger reserves and protected areas to ensure safe habitats for tigers.
Community Engagement
•    Local Involvement:
o    Greater involvement of local communities in conservation efforts is crucial, particularly in areas where human-wildlife conflict is prevalent.
Technology and Monitoring
•    Advanced Technology:
o    The use of advanced technology, such as camera traps and satellite tracking, is recommended to enhance monitoring and protection efforts.
Static Portion
Tiger Ecology and Habitat
•    Ecological Role:
o    Tigers are apex predators and play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance in forest ecosystems. They require large territories with sufficient prey to thrive.
Legal Framework
•    Wildlife Protection Act, 1972:
o    Provides the legal basis for tiger conservation in India.
•    National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA):
o    Oversees the implementation of conservation policies and measures.
Key Facts
•    Current Population:
o    India’s tiger population is estimated at 3,167, showing a marginal increase.
•    Project Tiger:
o    Launched in 1973, this flagship conservation program has been central to the recovery of tiger populations in India.
•    Conservation Challenges:
o    Habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict remain significant challenges.

Prelims Question
Question: With reference to the latest tiger census report, consider the following statements:
1.    India is home to nearly 50% of the world’s tiger population.
2.    Project Tiger was launched in 1973 to protect tigers and their habitats.
3.    Madhya Pradesh has the highest tiger population among Indian states. 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)    2 only
Answer: B) 2 and 3 only
Mains Question
Question: Discuss the significance of the latest tiger census report in the context of India's conservation efforts. What are the key challenges to sustaining and further increasing the tiger population, and what measures can be taken to address these challenges?

4.Centre Announces New Rail Projects for Odisha Despite Political Differences
Why in News
•    The Central Government has announced a series of new rail projects for Odisha, emphasizing its commitment to the state's infrastructure development despite ongoing political differences with the state government. These projects are expected to significantly enhance connectivity, drive economic growth, and improve regional integration.
Overview of the Announcement
Q Introduction
•    Ambitious Rail Expansion:
o    The Central Government, through the Ministry of Railways, has outlined an ambitious plan for expanding and modernizing Odisha's rail network. This includes the construction of new railway lines, doubling existing lines, and extensive electrification across key routes.
•    Political Context:
o    The announcement comes amid political tension between the Centre and Odisha's state government, led by different political parties. The Centre’s decision to prioritize these projects reflects a focus on national development goals over partisan interests.
Details of the Projects
•    Key Rail Projects:
o    Khurda Road-Balangir Railway Line:
    Aims to connect western Odisha with the coastal region, improving access to markets and resources. This project will enhance connectivity to remote and underdeveloped areas.
o    Sambalpur-Titlagarh Line Doubling:
    Expected to improve rail capacity and reduce congestion on one of the state’s busiest freight corridors, crucial for transporting minerals and industrial goods.
o    Angul-Sambalpur Electrification:

    Electrification of this route will reduce the carbon footprint, improve efficiency, and increase train speeds, benefiting both passenger and freight services.
o    Paradip-Haridaspur Rail Line:
    Enhances connectivity between Paradip Port, a major Indian port, and the mineral-rich hinterlands of Odisha, boosting exports and industrial growth.
Q Economic and Social Impact
Boost to Industrial Growth
•    Facilitating Resource Transport:
o    Odisha is rich in minerals like coal, iron ore, and bauxite. The new rail projects will facilitate efficient transport of these resources to key industrial hubs and ports, driving economic growth.
•    Attracting Investments:
o    Enhanced connectivity is likely to attract new industries and investments, particularly in sectors like steel, aluminum, and manufacturing.
Improved Regional Connectivity
•    Access to Remote Areas:
o    The new railway lines and upgrades will improve access to remote and underdeveloped areas, fostering regional development and social inclusion.
•    Improving Quality of Life:
o    Better rail connectivity will provide improved access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and markets, enhancing the quality of life for residents in these regions.
Background Facts
Strategic Importance of Odisha
•    Geographical and Resource Richness:
o    Odisha’s geographical location and resource richness make it a strategically important state for India’s economic and infrastructure development. The state’s mineral resources are critical for sectors like steel and energy production.
•    Major Ports:
o    Ports like Paradip and Dhamra are key to India’s maritime trade, particularly for the export of minerals and import of industrial goods. Efficient rail connectivity to these ports is essential for maintaining the competitiveness of Indian exports.
Political Context
•    Cooperative Federalism:
o    Despite differing stances between the Centre and Odisha’s state government on various issues, the announcement of these rail projects signifies a commitment to cooperative federalism and the prioritization of national and regional development over political considerations.
Statistical Data on Rail Projects
•    Project Investments:

o The total investment in these rail projects is expected to run into thousands of crores, reflecting their scale and significance. The Khurda Road-Balangir project alone has been allocated significant funding due to its strategic importance.
•    Economic Projections:
o    The projects are expected to create thousands of jobs during construction and generate long-term employment in rail network operation and maintenance.
Economic and Political Implications
Economic Growth and Development
•    Catalyst for Growth:
o    The rail projects are likely to catalyze economic growth in Odisha by enabling the state to better leverage its natural resources and industrial potential.
•    Reducing Regional Disparities:
o    The projects will help reduce regional disparities by bringing development to less industrialized parts of the state, particularly in western and northern regions.
Political Significance
•    Focus on Development:
o    The Centre’s decision to proceed with these projects despite political differences underscores a commitment to national development objectives and cooperative federalism. This move could also strengthen political ties with the state, potentially influencing future electoral dynamics.
Policy Measures and Government Initiatives
Infrastructure Development Focus
•    Key Driver of Growth:
o    The Central Government has identified infrastructure as a key driver of economic growth, with rail connectivity being a critical component. These projects align with broader national initiatives like the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) and the Gati Shakti Master Plan.
□    Public-Private Partnerships (PPP)
•    Private Sector Involvement:
o    Some of the new rail projects in Odisha are expected to involve PPPs, which are seen as a means to ensure timely completion, attract private investment, and bring in expertise in project execution.
 Skill Development and Local Engagement
•    Community Benefits:
o    The government is likely to focus on skill development programs to ensure that local communities benefit from the employment opportunities generated by these projects. This includes training programs in construction, engineering, and rail operations.
Static Portion
Indian Railways Overview
•    Global Rail Network:
o    Indian Railways is one of the world’s largest rail networks, playing a critical role in India’s economy by facilitating the movement of passengers and goods. Odisha’s
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rail network is crucial to the East Coast Railway zone, integral to transporting minerals and industrial goods.
□    Cooperative Federalism
•    Concept:
o    Cooperative federalism involves the Central and State governments working together to achieve common national goals despite political differences. This approach is essential for the successful implementation of large-scale infrastructure projects that require coordination across different government levels.
Key Facts
•    New Rail Projects:
o    The Centre has announced several new rail projects for Odisha, including new railway lines, doubling existing lines, and electrification of key routes.
•    Investment and Impact:
o    These projects involve significant investment, expected to boost industrial growth, improve regional connectivity, and create employment opportunities.
•    Political Context:
o    The projects have been announced despite political differences between the Centre and the Odisha state government, signaling a focus on cooperative federalism and development.

Prelims Question
Question: With reference to the recent announcement of new rail projects in Odisha, consider the following statements:
1.    The Khurda Road-Balangir Railway Line aims to connect western Odisha with the coastal region.
2.    Paradip-Haridaspur Rail Line is primarily focused on enhancing passenger connectivity in Odisha.
3.    Sambalpur-Titlagarh Line Doubling is expected to reduce congestion on one of Odisha's busiest freight corridors.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 only
B)    1 and 3 only
C)    2 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: B) 1 and 3 only
Mains Question
Question: Analyze the significance of the new rail projects announced by the Centre for Odisha in terms of economic growth and regional development. How do these projects reflect the principles of cooperative federalism?

5.Odisha’s Marine Police Understaffed and Ill-Equipped to Tackle Coastal Security Challenges
Why in News
•    A recent report highlights significant gaps in Odisha’s marine policing capabilities, raising concerns about the state’s preparedness to tackle coastal security challenges. With Odisha's strategic coastline being critical for both trade and national security, the inadequacies in staffing and equipment are alarming.
Overview of the Issue
Q Introduction
•    Strategic Coastline:
o    Odisha’s 480-kilometer-long coastline is home to major ports like Paradip and
Dhamra, making it a crucial hub for maritime trade and economic activities.
•    Marine Police Challenges:
o    The report reveals that Odisha’s marine police force is severely under-resourced, potentially compromising the security of this vital region.
Details
•    Staffing Issues:
o    Many marine police stations across Odisha are severely understaffed, with many positions remaining vacant for extended periods.
•    Training and Equipment Deficits:
o    Existing personnel are often not adequately trained or equipped to handle modern coastal security challenges, including smuggling, illegal fishing, and potential terrorist activities.
•    Equipment Shortages:
o    The lack of proper patrol boats, surveillance equipment, and communication systems further limits the effectiveness of marine policing efforts.
Q Background Facts
Strategic Importance of Odisha’s Coastline
•    Trade and Security:
o    Odisha’s coastline is crucial for trade due to its proximity to international maritime routes and its role in the export of minerals. The region is also prone to illegal activities such as smuggling and human trafficking, making robust coastal security essential.
Marine Policing in India
•    Shared Responsibility:
o    Coastal security is shared between the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and state marine police forces. State marine police are the first line of defense, tasked with patrolling and securing territorial waters up to 12 nautical miles from the coast.
Previous Incidents
•    Security Breaches:

o Odisha has witnessed incidents of illegal trawling, smuggling, and potential terrorist infiltration, underscoring the need for a well-equipped and trained marine police force.
Statistical Data on Marine Policing
•    Staffing Levels:
o    Many marine police stations in Odisha are operating at less than 50% of their sanctioned strength.
•    Equipment Shortages:
o    There is a significant shortfall in patrol boats and basic surveillance and communication equipment.
Security and Economic Implications
Coastal Security Risks
•    Vulnerabilities:
o    The understaffing and lack of equipment pose a significant risk to Odisha’s coastal security. The state’s ports, crucial for trade, could become vulnerable to illegal activities and potential threats from the sea.
Economic Impact
•    Disruption of Trade:
o    Inadequate coastal security can disrupt trade, affecting Odisha’s economy and national economic interests, as the state plays a critical role in the export of minerals and other goods.
Policy Measures and Recommendations
Strengthening Marine Policing
•    Recruitment and Training:
o    The state government, in coordination with the Centre, needs to prioritize the recruitment and training of marine police personnel. Filling vacant positions and ensuring continuous skill enhancement is essential.
Modernizing Equipment
•    Investment in Infrastructure:
o    Immediate investment is required to equip marine police stations with modern patrol boats, surveillance systems, and communication networks. This will enable effective monitoring and quick response to any security threats.
□    Enhanced Coordination
•    Inter-agency Collaboration:
o    Improved coordination between the state marine police, Indian Coast Guard, and Navy is crucial for a comprehensive coastal security strategy. Regular joint exercises and information sharing should be encouraged.
Static Portion
Marine Policing in India
•    Coastal Security Scheme:
o    Initiated in 2005, this scheme empowered state governments to set up marine police stations, recruit personnel, and procure equipment to secure coastal areas.

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Legal Framework
•    Relevant Laws:
o    The Indian Penal Code, Maritime Zones Act, and other laws govern the operations of marine police, providing them with the authority to act against illegal activities within territorial waters.
Key Facts
•    Coastal Length:
o    Odisha’s coastline stretches for 480 kilometers, making it one of the longest on the eastern seaboard of India.
•    Understaffing:
o    Many marine police stations in Odisha are operating at less than 50% of their sanctioned strength.
•    Security Gaps:
o    The lack of proper patrol boats and surveillance equipment significantly hampers coastal security efforts.

Prelims Question
Question: With reference to marine policing in India, consider the following statements:
1.    The Coastal Security Scheme was initiated in 2015 to empower state governments to secure coastal areas.
2.    The Indian Navy is the sole authority responsible for patrolling up to 12 nautical miles from the coast.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 only
B)    2 only
C)    Both 1 and 2
D)    Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: D) Neither 1 nor 2
Mains Question
Question: Analyze the challenges faced by Odisha’s marine police in ensuring coastal security. What measures should be taken to address these challenges, considering the strategic importance of Odisha’s coastline?

6.  Odisha Among Top States for Lightning Deaths as Extreme Weather Conditions Intensify
Why in News
•    Odisha has been reported as one of the top states in India for lightning-related deaths, with extreme weather conditions becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change. The rising number of fatalities underscores the urgent need for improved early warning systems and public awareness.
Overview of the Issue

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Q Introduction
•    Vulnerability to Lightning:
o    Odisha’s geographical and climatic conditions make it particularly vulnerable to lightning strikes, especially during the monsoon season. Recent data shows a significant increase in lightning-related fatalities, placing Odisha among the top states affected by this natural hazard.
Details
•    Rural Impact:
o    The state recorded a high number of lightning deaths in the past year, with rural areas being the most affected.
•    Climate Change Link:
o    The increase in extreme weather events, such as severe thunderstorms and cyclonic activity, is linked to broader climatic changes, exacerbating the frequency of lightning strikes.
•    Challenges in Preparedness:
o    Despite existing warning systems, the rapid onset of lightning and the lack of adequate shelter in rural areas contribute to the high mortality rate.
Q Background Facts
Climatic Vulnerability
•    Location and Exposure:
o    Odisha’s location along the Bay of Bengal exposes it to frequent cyclonic activity and thunderstorms, primary causes of lightning. The state’s large rural population, often engaged in outdoor activities like farming, is particularly at risk.
Impact of Climate Change
•    Intensifying Weather Patterns:
o    Climate change is intensifying weather patterns globally, leading to more frequent and severe thunderstorms, resulting in an increase in lightning strikes, particularly in regions like Odisha.
Previous Incidents
•    Historical Fatalities:
o    Odisha has consistently reported high numbers of lightning fatalities over the years, with major incidents resulting in large-scale loss of life, particularly in the rural belts.
Statistical Data on Lightning Deaths
•    Fatalities:
o    Odisha reported over 450 lightning-related deaths in the last year alone, placing it among the top states in India for such fatalities.
•    Geographical Distribution:
o    Districts like Ganjam, Balasore, and Mayurbhanj are among the most affected, with a significant number of deaths reported during the monsoon months.
Health and Social Implications
Public Health Concerns

•    Healthcare Access:
o    The high number of lightning deaths represents a significant public health issue, particularly in rural areas where access to immediate medical care is limited.
•    Psychological Impact:
o    The psychological impact on communities, especially those who have lost multiple members to lightning strikes, is profound and often unaddressed.
Socioeconomic Impact
•    Economic Hardships:
o    The majority of victims are often the primary breadwinners of their families, leading to severe economic hardships for the surviving family members, exacerbating poverty and hindering community development.
Policy Measures and Recommendations
Improved Early Warning Systems
•    Technological Enhancements:
o    There is an urgent need to enhance the existing early warning systems for lightning strikes. Mobile-based alerts, community awareness programs, and real-time monitoring can help reduce fatalities.
Public Awareness Campaigns
•    Education and Outreach:
o    Educating people, particularly in rural areas, about the dangers of lightning and the precautions to take during thunderstorms is crucial. Schools, local governments, and NGOs can play a significant role in spreading this awareness.
Infrastructure Development
•    Shelter and Safety:
o    Building more lightning-safe shelters in rural areas, along with ensuring that houses and public buildings are equipped with lightning rods, can provide better protection during storms.
Government Support
•    Family Assistance:
o    The state government needs to provide more robust support to families affected by lightning deaths, including financial assistance, insurance coverage, and rehabilitation programs.
Static Portion
Lightning and Thunderstorms
•    Nature of Lightning:
o    Lightning is a sudden electrostatic discharge that occurs typically during thunderstorms, releasing energy in the form of light (lightning) and sound (thunder).
•    Seasonal Occurrence:
o    In India, lightning strikes are most common during the pre-monsoon and monsoon seasons, particularly in the eastern and central states.
Disaster Management Framework

OASHUB

•    NDMA Guidelines:
o    The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) provides guidelines for mitigating the effects of lightning and thunderstorms, including the use of early warning systems and public education campaigns.
Key Facts
•    High Fatalities:
o    Odisha reported over 450 lightning-related deaths in the last year, one of the highest in India.
•    Vulnerable Regions:
o    Districts like Ganjam, Balasore, and Mayurbhanj are among the most affected by lightning strikes.
•    Need for Awareness:
o    Increased public awareness and better early warning systems are crucial to reducing lightning-related deaths.
UPSC Question Formulation
Prelims Question
Question: With reference to the impact of lightning in India, consider the following statements:
1.    Lightning is most common during the winter season in India.
2.    Odisha is one of the top states in India for lightning-related fatalities.
3.    The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) provides guidelines for mitigating the effects of lightning.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    2 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: B) 2 and 3 onlyMains Question
Question: Discuss the factors contributing to the high incidence of lightning-related deaths in Odisha. What measures can be taken to reduce these fatalities, particularly in the context of increasing extreme weather events due to climate change?