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CURRENT AFFAIRS – 23/04/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 23/04/2024

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  1. CURRENT AFFAIRS – 23/04/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 23/04/2024

Restoring earth’s right to ‘good health’

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Hindu

In a groundbreaking ruling, the European Court of Human Rights held the Government of Switzerland accountable for violating the rights of elderly women associated with the civil society group KlimaSeniorinnen.

  • The court’s decision emphasized Switzerland’s failure to adequately address emissions reduction, thereby neglecting its duty to protect women from the adverse effects of climate change.
  • This landmark case underscores the intersection of climate crisis and human rights, setting a precedent globally.

Key Highlights

  • Climate Change as a Human Rights Issue
    • Echoing this sentiment, the Supreme Court of India recently recognized the right of individuals to be safeguarded from the detrimental impacts of climate change.
    • Citing constitutional provisions guaranteeing equality before the law and the right to life and personal liberty, the court affirmed the imperative to mitigate climate change’s adverse effects on citizens.
    • The court’s recognition of climate change impacts as a matter of fundamental rights marks a pivotal moment.
    • By framing climate change within the context of constitutional rights to health, life, and liberty, the ruling establishes a foundation for legal accountability in climate action.
  • Escalating Climate Crisis: A Threat to Human Well-being
    • The latest State of the Global Climate Report by the World Meteorological Organization paints a stark picture of environmental deterioration.
    • In 2023, numerous climate indicators reached unprecedented levels, culminating in the hottest year on record.
    • Disturbing trends such as ocean heat accumulation, sea level rise, Antarctic sea ice depletion, and glacier retreat underscore the magnitude of the crisis.
    • The report underscores the urgent need for concerted action to address the escalating climate emergency.
  • India’s Progress in Mitigating Climate Change
    • Amidst these challenges, India stands out for its remarkable strides in decoupling economic growth from emissions.
    • The nation has surpassed two of its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) targets well ahead of schedule, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable development.
    • Achievements such as reducing emissions intensity and expanding non-fossil fuel energy sources underscore India’s proactive approach to addressing climate change.
    • India’s Vulnerability to Climate Change
      • Despite progress in emissions reduction, India remains highly susceptible to the adverse impacts of climate change.
      • The majority of its population resides in districts vulnerable to climate-induced disasters.
      • Escalating temperatures and natural calamities pose significant threats to livelihoods, food security, and exacerbate socio-economic disparities.
    • Potential for Accelerated Climate Action
      • The court’s observation offers a blueprint for advancing climate action both in terms of demand and supply.
      • On the demand side, a rights-based approach can galvanize public support and advocacy for robust climate policies.
      • On the supply side, it encourages collaborative efforts among government, private sector, and civil society to implement integrated climate strategies.
      • The Need for an Overarching Climate Regulation
        • An overarching regulation on climate change is proposed to augment existing policy frameworks in India.
        • Such legislation would consolidate and strengthen climate governance, facilitating resource allocation, capacity building, and institutional effectiveness.
        • Drawing on global examples, including countries from the Global North and South, the adoption of a framework law can guide strategic national climate policies beyond international obligations.
        • With 18 States and Union Territories identified as moderately to highly vulnerable, a platform for sharing best practices can foster coherence in climate policies and actions across regions.
        • Additionally, it can empower subnational entities to contribute effectively to climate resilience and adaptation efforts.
      • Localisation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in India
        • India has implemented a successful localisation model for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), integrating them into local-level planning through multi-tiered and multi-stakeholder processes.
        • States and territories develop their own SDG roadmaps and monitoring systems, fostering ownership and competition that drive innovation and progress.
        • Capacities of local governments are enhanced to ensure effective implementation, while broader participation from businesses, NGOs, and citizens facilitates a collaborative approach to achieving the SDGs.
        • Inter-Ministerial and Inter-Sectoral Approaches
          • The second pathway involves building inter-ministerial and inter-sectoral collaborations to address complex challenges.
          • Initiatives like the One Health initiative exemplify this approach, bringing together multiple ministries and departments for disease control, research, and pandemic preparedness.
          • Extending this model to the private sector, particularly integrating a rights-based approach to climate action into core operations, holds promise.
          • For instance, embracing circular economy principles can involve human rights-compliant supply chains, thereby fostering transformative impact.
        • Empowering Civil Society for Rights-Based Dialogue
          • The court’s observation presents a third pathway, empowering citizen groups and civil society organizations to foster a rights-based dialogue on environment, biodiversity, and climate action.
          • Within environmental policy frameworks, such dialogues can reconcile tensions between conservation efforts and climate action.
          • The Supreme Court’s stance on balancing wildlife conservation with renewable energy development underscores the importance of such dialogues.
          • These discussions are vital for arriving at holistic solutions that safeguard both environmental integrity and human rights.
        • Restoring Mother Earth’s Rights
          • Drawing on cultural and legal precedents, there’s a growing movement to restore “Mother Earth’s” rights to ensure environmental well-being and protect against climate change impacts.
          • Recent legal declarations, such as the Madras High Court’s recognition of “Mother Nature” as a legal person, signify a shift towards acknowledging nature’s intrinsic value and rights.
          • Leveraging these judgments and observations, efforts can be made to uphold environmental rights and secure a sustainable future for all.

What are rules around star campaigners?

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

The Representation of the People Act, 1951 (RP Act) outlines the legal framework pertaining to ‘star campaigners’ in political campaigns.

  • According to Section 77 of the RP Act, individuals designated as ‘leaders of a political party’ are commonly referred to as star campaigners.
  • These individuals, typically top leaders of a political party, but can also include celebrities, must be members of the political party appointing them.

Key Highlights

  • The RP Act specifies that recognized political parties (national or state) can appoint a maximum of 40 star campaigners, while registered unrecognised political parties can appoint up to 20.
  • These appointments must be communicated to the Election Commission (EC) and Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of the respective states within seven days from the date of election notification.
  • Benefits of Designating Star Campaigners
    • One significant benefit outlined by the RP Act is that the expenditure incurred by these star campaigners during campaigning activities, including travel expenses by air or any other means of transport, is not considered part of the election expenditure of the candidates they support.
    • This provision allows political parties to mobilize influential figures to campaign extensively without burdening the individual candidate’s expenditure limit.
    • For instance, in larger states, the election expenditure limit for candidates is ₹95 lakh per Lok Sabha constituency, while in smaller states, it is ₹75 lakh.
    • Thus, having star campaigners can significantly augment a party’s campaigning efforts without affecting individual candidate’s expenditure limits.
  • Conditions and Limitations
    • However, there are certain conditions and limitations outlined by the RP Act regarding the role of star campaigners.
    • If a star campaigner directly solicits votes for specific candidates or shares a platform with them during rallies or meetings, the expenses incurred during such events will be attributed to the election expenditure of those candidates.
    • Additionally, any boarding or lodging expenses incurred by the star campaigner while campaigning for specific candidates will be included in the expenditure account of those candidates, regardless of whether the expenses are paid for by the candidates themselves.
    • Furthermore, if candidates travel with the star campaigner, 50% of the travel expenditure of the star campaigner will be apportioned to those candidates.
  • Issues with Star Campaigners
    • The Election Commission (EC) has flagged concerns regarding the conduct of star campaigners during political campaigns.
    • Despite advisories to maintain decorum and elevate the discourse to issue-based debates, star campaigners from various political parties have been observed resorting to inappropriate language, appealing to caste or communal sentiments, and making unsubstantiated allegations against rival leaders.
    • Challenges in Expenditure Assessment
      • Another pressing issue pertains to the assessment of expenditure incurred during rallies or meetings of star campaigners.
      • The EC’s evaluation often yields significantly lower expenditure figures compared to actual costs.
      • This discrepancy may stem from the use of outdated rate cards that fail to reflect current market rates for various expenses, resulting in lower apportionment of expenditure to contesting candidates.
    • Recommended Actions
      • To address these challenges, amendments to the Representation of the People Act (RP Act) may be warranted, empowering the EC to revoke the star campaigner status of leaders in cases of serious violations of the Model Code of Conduct.
      • This amendment would ensure that parties and their candidates are not afforded expenditure relief for campaigns marred by misconduct, thereby incentivizing responsible campaigning practices.
      • Additionally, enhancing the assessment and apportionment mechanisms for rally/meeting expenses involving star campaigners campaigning for specific candidates would contribute to greater transparency and fairness in election expenditure evaluation.

About the Representation of the People Act, 1951 (RP Act)

  • The Representation of the People Act, 1951 (RP Act) is a key legislation in India that governs the following:
    • conduct of elections to the Houses of Parliament and the Houses of the Legislature of each State,
    • the qualifications and disqualifications for membership of those Houses,
    • the corrupt practices and other offences at or in connection with such elections, and
    • the decision of doubts and disputes arising out of or in connection with such elections.
  • The Act was enacted by the Parliament of India under Article 327 of the Constitution of India, which empowers the Parliament to make laws for the whole or any part of the territory of India in respect of all matters relating to elections to the Houses of Parliament and to the Houses of the Legislature of each State.
  • The RP Act contains 171 sections and 13 parts, and it is divided into three main parts:
    • Part I (Preliminary), Part II (Qualifications and Disqualifications), and Part III (Conduct of Elections and Offences).
    • Part I deals with the preliminary matters, such as the short title, interpretation, and general provisions.
    • Part II deals with the qualifications and disqualifications for membership of the Houses of Parliament and the Houses of the Legislature of each State.
    • Part III deals with the conduct of elections and offences, such as the nomination of candidates, the preparation of electoral rolls, the voting process, the counting of votes, and the decision of disputes.
  • The RP Act also contains provisions for the adjudication of disputes arising out of or in connection with elections.
    • Section 98 of the Act empowers the High Court to decide any question whether an election is void on the ground of the existence of corrupt practices or illegal intimidation, or on the ground of the ineligibility of a returned candidate.
    • Section 99 empowers the High Court to make any order that it thinks fit for the purpose of securing or enforcing the attendance of any person, or the production of any document, or the discovery or inspection of any property, or the investigation or punishment of any offence.
  • The RP Act has been amended several times since its enactment to keep up with the changing needs and challenges of the electoral process in India.
    • Some of the important amendments to the Act include the Representation of the People (Amendment) Act, 1966, which abolished election tribunals and transferred election petitions to High Courts;
    • the Representation of the People (Amendment) Act, 1988, which made provisions for the adjournment or countermanding of polling because of booth capturing and electronic voting; and
    • the Representation of the People (Amendment) Act, 2002, which inserted Section 33A into the Act, providing for the right to information for people, and requiring contesting candidates to furnish information about their prior convictions of offences or whether they are accused of any offence.

Accused in criminal cases won more seats in 17th LS

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

An amicus curiae report presented in the Supreme Court reveals a concerning trend wherein candidates with criminal backgrounds secured more seats in the 17th Lok Sabha compared to those with clean records.

  • The report underscores the critical importance of voters being informed about the criminal history of candidates they are electing into power.
  • The report also highlights that the right to information of voters is an integral aspect of their fundamental right to free speech and expression.

Key Highlights

  • Data Analysis and Findings
    • The amicus curiae’s report draws attention to findings from the Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR) report on the Lok Sabha elections of 2024 Phase I and Phase II.
    • Out of a total of 2,810 candidates (1,618 in Phase I and 1,192 in Phase II), 501 candidates, constituting 18%, had criminal cases registered against them.
    • Moreover, among these, 327 candidates, representing 12%, faced serious criminal charges punishable by imprisonment of five years or more.
    • Persisting Trend
      • The amicus curiae report highlights a persistent trend in the prevalence of criminal cases among elected lawmakers, as evidenced by data from the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.
      • Out of 7,928 candidates, 1,500 candidates (19%) had criminal cases, with 1,070 candidates (13%) facing serious criminal charges.
      • Shockingly, among the 514 elected members of the 17th Lok Sabha (2019-2024), 225 members (44%) had criminal cases against them, indicating that candidates with criminal backgrounds secured more seats than those without.
    • Pending Criminal Cases and Judicial Delays
      • The report also reveals alarming figures regarding the backlog of criminal cases involving lawmakers.
      • As of January 1, 2024, 4,472 criminal cases against legislators were pending, with 1,746 new cases filed in 2023 alone.
      • Despite efforts to resolve these cases, a significant number of cases remain unresolved, with 40% of pending cases lingering for more than five years as of November 2022.
    • Call for Transparency and Accountability
      • Highlighting the necessity for transparency in electoral processes, the report advocates for a dedicated tab on the homepages of State High Courts’ websites.
      • This tab would provide comprehensive information, district-wise, on ongoing criminal trials involving legislators.
      • Notably, it would prominently display the progress of each trial and reasons for any delays.
      • This initiative aims to empower citizens and voters to access crucial information regarding the criminal records of electoral candidates.
      • Urgent Need for Public Awareness
        • The alarming prevalence of candidates with criminal backgrounds underscores the urgent need for enhanced public awareness and scrutiny during elections.
        • By providing accessible and detailed information about ongoing criminal trials involving legislators, the proposed tab on High Court websites seeks to empower voters with vital knowledge to make informed electoral decisions.
        • This initiative aligns with broader efforts to uphold democratic principles and strengthen accountability within the political system.
      • Recommendations for Improved Transparency
        • Notably, amicus curiae suggests the creation of a model website, akin to the National Judicial Data Grid, to provide real-time updates on cases in Special Courts designated to try MPs and MLAs.
        • To facilitate this initiative, the amicus curiae recommends the formation of a committee under the chairmanship of a sitting Judge of the Supreme Court.
        • These recommendations aim to address the systemic challenges contributing to the prevalence of criminal cases among elected representatives and improve accountability within the political system.

Who is an amicus curiae?

  • An amicus curiae, which is Latin for “friend of the court,” is a person or organization that is not a party to a legal case but offers expertise or assistance to the court by providing information, expertise, or perspective that may be helpful in reaching a just and equitable decision.
  • Amicus curiae briefs are often submitted by individuals, advocacy groups, or other entities with relevant expertise or interest in the legal issues involved in a case.

About the Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR)

  • The Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR) is an Indian non-governmental organization that works for the promotion of transparency and accountability in the political and electoral process in India.
  • The ADR was founded in 1999 by a group of professionals, including lawyers, chartered accountants, and social activists, who were concerned about the lack of transparency and accountability in the political and electoral process in India.
  • The ADR is headquartered in New Delhi, the capital of India.

About the National Judicial Data Grid

  • The National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG) is a database of orders, judgments, and case details of 18,735 District and subordinate Courts and High Courts in India.
  • It is an online platform created under the eCourts Project, which is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme.
  • The NJDG is a national repository of data relating to cases instituted, pending, and disposed of by the courts across the country.
  • The data is updated in real-time and has granular data up to the Taluka level.
  • The NJDG is built and maintained by the National Informatics Centre (NIC) in close coordination with the in-house software development team of the Computer Cell, Registry of the Supreme Court.
  • The NJDG works as a monitoring tool to identify, manage, and reduce pendency of cases.
    • It helps to identify specific bottlenecks in judicial processes, such as the number of land disputes in a particular state, which can help policymakers look into whether the law needs to be strengthened.
    • The NJDG also helps to generate inputs related to particular areas of law, such as tracking cases related to land disputes, by linking Land Records data of 26 States with NJDG.

SC allows termination of pregnancy of minor rape survivor

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

The Supreme Court, utilizing its extraordinary powers under Article 142 of the Constitution, intervened to permit the medical termination of pregnancy for a 14-year-old rape survivor in Maharashtra.

  • Despite the usual upper limit of 24 weeks under the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, the survivor’s pregnancy had reached nearly 30 weeks due to delayed awareness of her condition.

Key Highlights

  • Background of the Case
    • The survivor, a minor, discovered her pregnancy only at a late stage, after the usual time frame allowed for abortion had elapsed.
    • The delay in registering the First Information Report (FIR) for the rape, which occurred after the 24-week limit, further complicated the situation.
    • Medical Recommendation and Court’s Decision
      • A medical board advised that continuing the pregnancy could severely impact the minor’s physical and mental well-being.
      • Despite risks associated with the termination procedure, the board concluded that the threat to her life was not greater than if the pregnancy were to continue to full term.
    • Urgency and Welfare Considerations
      • Acknowledging the urgency of the situation and prioritizing the welfare of the minor, the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud and J.B. Pardiwala, set aside the Bombay High Court’s refusal of relief and granted permission for the termination.
      • Chief Justice Chandrachud emphasized the paramount importance of the minor’s well-being, stressing that every hour was crucial for her.
      • The State government agreed to cover the expenses for the procedure, aftercare, and transportation.
      • Recognizing the urgency, the Court bypassed formalities to ensure timely medical intervention, promising to deliver a detailed order later.

About the Article 142 of the Constitution

  • Article 142 of the Indian Constitution grants special powers to the Supreme Court of India to deliver complete justice in cases where laws are silent or inadequate.
  • Nature of Powers:
    • The powers conferred by Article 142 are discretionary and can be exercised by the Supreme Court in exceptional circumstances.
    • The court may use these powers to issue directions, orders, or decrees that it deems necessary to do complete justice in a particular case.

The story of indelible ink

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Indian Express

As the first phase of voting for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections commences, the iconic symbol of Indian elections emerges – the application of indelible ink on voters’ fingers.

  • Manufactured solely by Mysore Paints & Varnish Ltd., a Karnataka Government Undertaking, around 26.5 lakh bottles of indelible ink, each with a capacity of 10 ml, will be produced for the current election cycle.
  • This ink, devised to prevent multiple voting, has been a staple of Indian elections for decades and has even been utilized in elections outside India.

Key Highlights

  • Long-standing Tradition with Minimal Alterations
    • The application of indelible ink has remained largely unchanged over the years, despite advancements in voting technology.
    • Once a voter’s credentials are verified at the polling booth, and before casting their vote using Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), the indelible ink is applied to their finger.
  • Legal Basis and Evolution
    • The use of indelible ink is rooted in the Representation of the People Act (RoPA) of 1951, which mandates the marking of voters’ fingers before receiving a ballot paper.
    • In the era before EVMs, voters marked their preferences on ballot papers, which were then deposited into ballot boxes.
    • The RoPA specifies rules for applying the ink to the thumb or any other finger of the voter to prevent multiple voting.
    • Initially applied with a glass rod, the ink’s method of application evolved over time, from the base of the forefinger to just above the root of the nail on the skin.
    • Continued Effectiveness and Endorsement
      • The Election Commission of India’s (ECI) report on the first general elections in 1951-52 attested to the effectiveness of the indelible ink, noting its satisfactory performance and widespread use in subsequent local body elections.
      • Despite technological advancements in the electoral process, the indelible ink remains a trusted tool for maintaining the integrity and fairness of elections, symbolizing the democratic values upheld by India’s electoral system.
    • Composition and Properties of Indelible Ink
      • Indelible ink used in elections contains silver nitrate, a colourless compound that becomes visible under ultraviolet light, including sunlight.
      • The ink’s quality is influenced by the concentration of silver nitrate, with higher concentrations, such as around 20 percent, resulting in superior durability.
      • The ink can resist soap, liquids, home-cleansing agents, and detergents for up to 72 hours after application, ensuring its effectiveness in preventing fraudulent voting attempts.
      • Chemical Composition and Manufacturing Process
        • The precise protocol for formulating indelible ink, including its chemical composition and the quantity of each constituent, is not widely known.
        • However, it is understood that the ink is water-based and contains a solvent like alcohol to facilitate rapid drying.
        • Despite the lack of detailed information, the ink’s effectiveness and reliability are widely recognized.
      • Manufacturers and Licensing
        • Initially developed at the request of the Election Commission of India (ECI) by the government’s Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), the indelible ink was later patented by the National Research Development Corporation (NRDC) in New Delhi.
        • Mysore Paints & Varnish Ltd., a company licensed to manufacture the ink, has been producing it since 1962.
          • Established in 1937 by NalwadiKrishnarajaWodeyar, the Maharaja of Mysore, the company has a long-standing history in ink production.
        • Global Reach and Application Procedures
          • Indelible ink manufactured in India is not only used in domestic elections but also exported to over 25 countries worldwide, including Canada, Ghana, Nigeria, Mongolia, Malaysia, Nepal, South Africa, and the Maldives.
          • The application procedure for the ink can vary between elections, with methods ranging from finger dipping in countries like Cambodia and the Maldives to brush application in Burkina Faso and nozzle usage in Turkey.
          • Despite these variations, the ink’s core purpose remains consistent – to prevent fraudulent voting and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.

About the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR)

  • The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is a premier scientific research organization in India.
  • Establishment:
    • CSIR was established on September 26, 1942, by the Government of India as an autonomous body under the Ministry of Science and Technology.
    • It is one of the oldest and largest research and development organizations in the country.
  • Mandate:
    • The primary mandate of CSIR is to undertake scientific and industrial research for the development of new technologies, processes, and products that contribute to the economic, social, and environmental development of India.
    • It focuses on a wide range of scientific disciplines, including biological sciences, chemical sciences, physical sciences, engineering sciences, and environmental sciences.
  • Structure:
    • CSIR operates through a network of 37 laboratories and research institutes located across India, each specializing in specific areas of research and technology development.
    • These laboratories collaborate with industry, academia, and government agencies to address national challenges and promote innovation.
  • Technology Transfer and Commercialization:
    • CSIR plays a key role in technology transfer and commercialization by facilitating the transfer of research outcomes and intellectual property to industry for commercialization.
    • It collaborates with businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs to license technologies, provide technical assistance, and support technology-based entrepreneurship.

About the National Research Development Corporation (NRDC)

  • The National Research Development Corporation (NRDC) is a government-owned enterprise established in 1953 under the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India.
  • The primary objective of NRDC is to promote, develop, and transfer technologies emanating from various national R&D institutions to the industry.
  • The Corporation has been instrumental in improving the manufacturing base in India with innovative technologies and acting as an effective catalyst translating innovative research into marketable industrial products.

Fourth global mass coral bleaching triggered

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Indian Express

The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) declared the onset of the fourth global mass coral bleaching event due to unprecedented ocean temperatures.

  • This event poses severe threats to ocean ecosystems and the livelihoods of millions of people reliant on coral reefs for sustenance, employment, and coastal protection.

Key Highlights

  • Rising Sea Surface Temperatures
    • Since mid-March 2023, sea surface temperatures (SST) have been alarmingly high, culminating in a record monthly high of 21.07 degrees Celsius in March of the current year, as reported by the EU Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S).
    • The primary driver behind these soaring temperatures is the escalating emissions of heat-trapping greenhouse gases (GHGs) like carbon dioxide and methane, leading to the absorption of approximately 90% of the additional heat by the oceans.
  • Understanding Corals and Coral Reefs
    • Corals: Animal Architects of the Ocean
  • Corals are marine animals characterized by their sessile nature, meaning they permanently attach themselves to the ocean floor.
  • These organisms possess tentacle-like structures used for catching food from the water.
  • Each coral animal, known as a polyp, forms colonies consisting of hundreds to thousands of genetically identical polyps.
  • Types of Corals
    • Corals are broadly classified into hard corals and soft corals.
    • Hard corals, distinguished by their stony skeletons composed of limestone produced by coral polyps, serve as the primary architects of coral reefs.
    • Upon the death of polyps, their skeletal remnants form the foundation for new polyps to inhabit and thrive.
  • Coral Reefs: Vital Ecosystems
    • Coral reefs, often termed as the “rainforests of the sea,” have existed for nearly 450 million years, showcasing unparalleled biodiversity and ecological significance.
    • Among the world’s coral reefs, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef stands as the largest, spanning a vast expanse of 2,028 kilometers.
  • Significance of Corals in Marine Ecosystems
    • Biodiversity Hotspots
      • Coral reefs play a vital role in marine ecosystems, hosting thousands of marine species within a single reef.
      • For example, the Great Barrier Reef alone harbors over 400 coral species, 1,500 fish species, 4,000 mollusc species, and six of the world’s seven sea turtle species.
      • Additionally, research suggests that there may be millions of undiscovered organisms living in and around coral reefs, highlighting their unparalleled biodiversity.
    • Economic and Ecological Value
      • These massive underwater structures provide economic goods and services estimated at approximately $375 billion annually.
      • More than 500 million people worldwide rely on coral reefs for sustenance, income, and coastal protection from storms and floods.
      • Coral reefs have the remarkable ability to absorb up to 97% of energy from waves, storms, and floods, thereby mitigating the risk of loss of life, property damage, and soil erosion.
      • Thus, the preservation of coral reefs is not only essential for marine life but also critical for human well-being.
    • Understanding Coral Bleaching
      • Symbiotic Relationship
        • Most corals host algae called zooxanthellae within their tissues, forming a symbiotic relationship.
        • Corals provide a habitat for zooxanthellae, which, in turn, produce oxygen and organic products through photosynthesis, supporting the growth and vitality of corals.
        • Furthermore, zooxanthellae contribute vibrant colors to corals, enhancing their visual appeal.
      • Causes and Effects of Coral Bleaching
        • Corals are highly sensitive to changes in light and temperature, and even slight alterations in their environment can induce stress.
        • When stressed, corals expel zooxanthellae, resulting in the loss of their vibrant colors and the phenomenon known as coral bleaching.
        • While coral bleaching does not immediately lead to coral death, it subjects corals to increased stress and vulnerability to mortality.
        • Additionally, bleaching diminishes coral reproductive capacity and increases susceptibility to fatal diseases.
        • Although some corals may recover from mild bleaching events, severe and widespread bleaching poses a significant threat to coral reef ecosystems.
      • Global Mass Bleaching Events
        • Global mass bleaching events, characterized by significant coral bleaching across the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific oceans, are a relatively recent phenomenon.
        • The first such event occurred in 1998, affecting 20% of the world’s reef areas.
        • Subsequent global bleaching events occurred in 2010 (35% of reefs affected) and between 2014 and 2017 (56% of reefs affected), highlighting the escalating threat posed by rising sea temperatures and climate change to coral reef ecosystems worldwide.
      • Current Status of Global Bleaching Event
        • The fourth global bleaching event, as confirmed by NOAA, is currently underway, affecting approximately 54 countries, territories, and local economies worldwide.
        • The severity of bleaching varies, with regions like the Great Barrier Reef experiencing extreme bleaching, impacting approximately one-third of surveyed reefs.
        • Bleaching has also been observed in the Western Indian Ocean, including areas such as Tanzania, Kenya, Mauritius, Seychelles, and off the western coast of Indonesia.
        • In the past year, over 54% of the world’s coral area has experienced bleaching-level heat stress, with this number increasing by approximately 1% per week, according to Derek Manzello of NOAA’s Coral Reef Watch program.
      • Factors Driving the Event
        • The primary driver behind the ongoing bleaching event is elevated ocean temperatures, exacerbated by the weather pattern known as El Niño.
        • While El Niño is weakening, the potential onset of a cooler La Niña by the year’s end may alleviate the situation, although the full impact remains uncertain.
      • Anticipated Impact of the Event
        • Scientists have characterized the current bleaching event as the most severe to date, with potentially devastating consequences for coral reef ecosystems.
        • As global temperatures continue to rise, such events are expected to become more frequent and prolonged.
        • According to a 2018 report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), coral reefs are at risk of significant loss, with the vast majority projected to disappear at 1.5 degrees Celsius of warming and virtually all at 2 degrees Celsius.
        • Currently, the Earth’s average global temperature has increased by at least 1.1 degrees Celsius since 1850.
      • Challenges in Mitigation
        • To limit global warming to no more than 1.5 degrees Celsius, countries must significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050 as outlined in the Paris Agreement.
        • However, achieving this goal remains uncertain as record levels of greenhouse gas emissions persist, posing challenges to effective mitigation efforts.

About US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

  • The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is an agency of the United States Department of Commerce responsible for monitoring and understanding the Earth’s oceans, atmosphere, and marine ecosystems, as well as forecasting weather, managing fisheries, and conducting research to support environmental stewardship and promote public safety.
  • Establishment:
    • NOAA was established on October 3, 1970, through the consolidation of several existing agencies, including the United States Weather Bureau, the United States Coast and Geodetic Survey, and the Environmental Science Services Administration.
  • Mission:
    • NOAA’s mission is to understand and predict changes in the Earth’s environment, conserve and manage coastal and marine resources, and provide accurate and timely weather forecasts, warnings, and information to protect lives and property.
  • Organizational Structure:
    • NOAA is organized into several line offices, including the National Weather Service (NWS), the National Ocean Service (NOS), the National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS), the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), and the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR). Each line office has specific responsibilities and programs related to its area of expertise.

About the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)

  • The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is an intergovernmental body of the United Nations established in 1988 by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
  • Its primary objective is to advance scientific knowledge about climate change caused by human activities and inform governments about the state of knowledge of climate change.
  • The IPCC is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and has 195 member states who govern the organization.
  • The IPCC is known for its comprehensive assessments on the state of knowledge of climate change, which are prepared by three working groups and a task force.
    • Working Group I assesses the physical science basis of the climate system and climate change, Working Group II assesses the vulnerability of socio-economic and natural systems to climate change, and Working Group III assesses options for mitigating climate change through limiting or preventing greenhouse gas emissions.
    • The Task Force on National Greenhouse Gas Inventories develops methodologies for estimating greenhouse gas emissions and removals.
  • These assessments are published in IPCC reports, which are subject to multiple drafting and review processes to promote an objective, comprehensive, and transparent assessment of current knowledge.