CURRENT AFFAIRS – 31/01/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 31/01/2024

What some nations have paused UNRWA funding?

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Indian Express

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UN officials on January 28 urged countries to reconsider the suspension of funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA).

• The appeal comes in response to the funding cut by the US and eight other Western countries, which collectively contributed over half of UNRWA’s 2022 budget.
• The decision followed Israel’s accusation that some UNRWA staff members were involved in an October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas.

Key Highlights

• UN officials assured that strict action would be taken against any staff member found to be linked to the October 7 attack.
• UNRWA emphasized that two million Palestinians in Gaza depend on its services, which could be scaled back starting in February if funding is not restored.
• UNRWA: Overview and Mission
  • UNRWA stands for UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees in the Near East.
  • Founded in 1949 to provide aid to Palestinians displaced during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war.
  • Operating Regions: Gaza, Israeli-occupied West Bank, Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan.
  • Services Provided:
    • Education
    • Health
    • Relief and social services
    • Microfinance
    • Emergency assistance programs
  • Beneficiaries: Around 5.9 million Palestine refugees, mostly descendants of the original refugees, currently access UNRWA’s services.
  • Over 1 million Palestinians in Gaza, representing 85% of the population, have sought shelter in UNRWA schools and facilities after the recent Israel-Hamas conflict.
  • Funded primarily by voluntary contributions from donor states, with the US being a significant contributor.
  • A limited subsidy from the UN covers administrative costs.
• Accusations by Israel:
  • Israel has accused 12 staff members of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) of involvement in the October 7 attack.
  • Allegations include claims of Hamas siphoning off funds from UNRWA and conducting military activities in and around UNRWA facilities.
  • Israel has also asserted the presence of Hamas tunnels near or under UNRWA facilities, accusing the agency of promoting anti-Israel sentiments in its schools.
• UNRWA’s Response
  • UNRWA has vehemently denied all allegations, asserting no connections to Hamas.
  • Out of the 12 accused staff members, nine have been terminated, one confirmed dead, and the identities of the remaining two are under clarification.
  • The agency has emphasized its commitment to holding any UN employee involved in acts of terror accountable, including through criminal prosecution.
• Current Situation and Concerns
  • UNRWA plays a vital role in addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, providing essential services like food, water, and shelter.
  • The agency warns of running out of funds for its aid work within weeks if the suspended funding is not restored.
  • The potential consequences include exacerbating the humanitarian situation for the 2 million Palestinians in Gaza who rely on UNRWA’s services.

About United Nations

• The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded on October 24, 1945, after the conclusion of World War II.
• It was established with the primary objective of promoting peace, cooperation among nations, and addressing global challenges collaboratively.
• The UN has 193 member states and membership is open to all sovereign states willing to adhere to the UN Charter.
• Principal Organs:
  • General Assembly: Comprising all member states, it serves as a forum for countries to discuss and coordinate on international issues.
  • Security Council: Responsible for maintaining international peace and security. It has 15 members, with five permanent members (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States) and ten elected by the General Assembly.
  • International Court of Justice (ICJ): The principal judicial organ of the UN, settles legal disputes between states.
  • Secretariat: Headed by the Secretary-General, it carries out the day-to-day work of the UN and manages its programs and policies.
  • Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC): Promotes international economic and social cooperation and development.
• The Secretary-General is the head of the UN Secretariat and is appointed by the General Assembly on the recommendation of the Security Council.
• The main headquarters of the UN is in New York City. It also has major offices in Geneva, Vienna, and Nairobi, among other locations.
• The UN is involved in various initiatives aimed at global development, poverty reduction, and sustainable development.
• The Millennium Development Goals (2000-2015) and the subsequent Sustainable Development Goals (2015-2030) are key frameworks.

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How to grow seafood outside the sea?

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Indian Express

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The ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), headquartered in Kochi, has entered into a collaborative research agreement with Neat Meatt Biotech, a New Delhi-based start-up specializing in cultivated meat technology.

• The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) marks the first-of-its-kind initiative in India, focusing on lab-grown or cultivated meat technology, specifically for fish.

Key Highlights

• Lab-Grown Fish:
  • Lab-grown fish involves the cultivation of seafood without the need to raise and kill actual animals.
  • This method produces fish meat by isolating specific cells from fish and growing them in a laboratory setting, replicating the flavor, texture, and nutritional qualities of real fish meat.
• CMFRI’s Contribution:
  • CMFRI will be responsible for genetic, biochemical, and analytical aspects of the project.
  • The institute, operating under the Union Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, will conduct research on early cell line development of high-value marine fish species.
  • Initial focus on developing cell-based meat for fish varieties such as pomfret, kingfish, and seerfish.
• Neat Meatt’s Contribution:
  • Neat Meatt Biotech, a private-sector start-up, brings expertise in cell culture technology to the collaboration.
  • The company will lead in optimizing cell growth media, developing scaffolds or microcarriers for cell attachment, and scaling up production through bioreactors.
  • Responsibilities also include providing necessary consumables, manpower, and additional equipment required for the project.
• CMFRI and Neat Meatt Collaboration:
  • The ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) in Kochi, India, has entered into a collaboration with New Delhi-based Neat Meatt Biotech.
  • The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) focuses on genetic, biochemical, and analytical aspects, with CMFRI concentrating on early cell line development of high-value marine fish species.
  • Neat Meatt, leveraging its expertise in cell culture technology, will lead in optimizing cell growth media, developing scaffolds, and scaling up production.
• Project Scope:
  • CMFRI’s cell culture lab will play a crucial role in isolating and cultivating fish cells for further research and development.
  • The ultimate goal is to produce lab-grown fish meat that closely resembles the characteristics of real fish meat in terms of flavor, texture, and nutritional qualities.
• Growing Need for Lab-Grown Fish Meat:
  • The increasing demand for seafood and the environmental impact of overfishing have led to the exploration of lab-grown fish meat as a sustainable alternative.
  • Lab-grown fish meat is seen as a solution to alleviate pressure on wild fish populations and reduce the environmental consequences of overfishing.
  • Lab-grown fish meat offers potential environmental benefits by eliminating the issues of antibiotics use, environmental contamination, and exposure to microplastics or heavy metals found in polluted oceans.
  • The technology aims to contribute to food security by providing a controlled and sustainable method of producing fish meat.
• Global Experiments and Leading Countries:
  • Many countries are actively experimenting with lab-grown fish meat, with Israel leading the way, followed by Singapore, the United States, and China.
  • Israel’s Forsea Foods recently achieved success in producing lab-grown freshwater eel meat, with plans to introduce it to markets in the coming years.
  • Last year, Israel’s Steakholder Foods, in collaboration with Singapore-based Umami Meats, 3D printed the first-ever ready-to-cook fish fillet using animal cells grown in a laboratory.
• Accelerating India’s Presence in Cultured Seafood Research:
  • The CMFRI-Neat Meatt partnership aims to ensure India’s active participation in the emerging industry of lab-grown seafood.
  • Gopalakrishnan of CMFRI highlighted the importance of bridging the gap between India and countries like Singapore, Israel, and the USA that are advancing cultured seafood research.
  • Sharma of Neat Meatt expressed confidence in establishing the proof of concept for the project within a couple of months.
• Diverse Range of Lab-Grown Meats:
  • The concept of lab-grown or cultured meat, initially presented by Dutch pharmacologist Mark Post in 2013, has gained traction worldwide.
  • Numerous companies globally are actively working on developing lab-grown meat from various animal cells, including chicken, pork, lamb, fish, and beef.
• Global Landscape:
  • The lab-grown meat industry has expanded significantly, with over 150 companies operating on six continents as of late 2022.
  • Backed by substantial investments totaling $2.6 billion, the industry has attracted interest from investors globally.
  • The Good Food Institute, a global nonprofit think tank, has been actively involved in promoting and supporting the growth of the lab-grown meat sector.
• Technological Solutions Across the Value Chain:
  • The industry’s growth is not limited to meat production alone; dozens of companies are also focusing on developing technology solutions across the entire value chain.
  • This includes advancements in cell culture technology, media optimization, and scaling up production processes.
• US Department of Agriculture Approval:
  • In a significant development, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) cleared the sale of lab-grown chicken meat in June 2023.
  • California-based companies, Good Meat and Upside Foods, were granted permission to supply lab-grown chicken meat to restaurants and supermarkets, marking a milestone in the commercialization of cultured meat.
• Industry Momentum:
  • The momentum in the lab-grown meat industry is driven by the potential to address sustainability concerns, reduce environmental impact, and provide an alternative source of protein to meet the growing global demand for meat.

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A blurred mapping of internal female migration

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : TH

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Internal migration is a critical aspect of physical and social transitions in India, with the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) estimating a 27% migration rate from June 2020 to 2021.

• While normative literature often portrays it as a male-dominated narrative, there is a significant but overlooked presence of working-age women in the migrant pool.
• This is particularly concerning amid India’s declining Female Labour Force Participation Rate (FLFPR), raising questions about potential employment barriers for migrant women.

Key Highlights

• National Surveys and Inaccuracy:
  • National surveys like the PLFS provide valuable data on female migrants but present an inaccurate picture.
  • These surveys primarily inquire about the primary reason for migration, revealing marriage as the leading cause (81%), followed by family migration (10%), employment (2.42%), and education opportunities (0.48%).
  • However, secondary motivations, such as climate shocks and food insecurity, crucial for understanding women’s migration, are not explored.
• Migrant Women’s Employment Status:
  • PLFS data indicate that around three-quarters of migrant women are unemployed, with 14% in self and wage-employed jobs and 12% in casual labor.
  • The data collected during the COVID-19 pandemic may contribute to these low numbers, but it fails to capture the extent of underreporting of employment status among migrant women.
  • Anecdotal evidence suggests that many migrant women engage in casual employment in sectors like agriculture, construction, and domestic help, which is often not reflected in official statistics.
• Definitional Issues and Underreporting:
  • Definitional issues contribute to the underreporting of employment among migrant women.
  • National surveys consider only those with a formal contract as part of the labor force, leading to the misclassification of women as unemployed.
  • Many women, however, choose forms of employment that align with their domestic responsibilities, such as unpaid family work or self-employment.
  • These activities are often not recognized as employment, causing women to misreport their employment status.
• Challenges in Formal Labor Force Entry:
  • Despite debates on barriers to formal labor force entry, there is a significant challenge for migrant women, potentially rooted in insufficient human and social capital.
  • PLFS data reveals that 85% of these women have less than 10 years of education, which can impede their employment opportunities.
  • Migrant women, despite similar educational levels to non-migrant counterparts, face proportional underemployment.
  • Limited social networks after migration exacerbate these challenges.
  • Barriers like education and social networks may contribute to the slow recovery of women’s labor activity post-pandemic.
  • A Yale University study highlights that 55% of women did not return to their workplaces after COVID-19 lockdowns, and those who did experienced a substantial income reduction to 56% of pre-pandemic levels.
• Invisible Labor Force:
  • Despite a 101% increase in female migration for labor between 2001 and 2011, migrant women remain largely invisible and marginalized.
  • Lack of attention from political parties, given their perceived insignificance as a vote bank, results in inadequate policies that fail to address the unique challenges faced by female migrants.
  • Existing policies, such as One Nation One ration card, e-Shram, and affordable rental housing complexes, often neglect the specific needs of female migrants.
• Steps for Improvement:
  • To address these issues, comprehensive steps are necessary.
  • National surveys should delve deeper into the socio-economic conditions of female migrants post-migration, as the current data is limited.
  • Access to social security benefits, which currently only reaches around 7% of migrant women, needs to be expanded.
  • The absence of time-use data for migrants hinders understanding, emphasizing the need for its inclusion in national surveys.
  • A shift in the narrative, marked by increased collection of female-specific data, is crucial for highlighting the challenges faced by migrant women, fostering awareness, and influencing progressive policy making.

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Gruha Lakshmi Scheme

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : TH

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The introduction of the Gruha Lakshmi scheme in Karnataka has sparked a policy debate on welfare programs for the economically disadvantaged and fiscal prudence.

• The scheme, providing a monthly cash transfer of ₹2,000 to women heading below poverty line households in Karnataka, covers 1.36 crore beneficiaries with an annual outlay exceeding ₹32,000 crore.

Key Highlights

• Unacknowledged Economic Contributions of Women:
  • Mainstream economics often neglects activities performed by women at home, categorizing them as non-economic.
  • This includes unpaid work such as domestic chores and care work for the elderly and children.
  • While women’s participation in formal economic activities remains low, the burden of unpaid work, as evidenced by the Time Use survey, is significantly higher for women compared to men.
  • For instance, 81.2% of women are engaged in unpaid domestic services, while only 26.1% of men share this burden.
  • Economically disadvantaged women, often engaged in wage work, bear a disproportionately higher burden of unpaid and care work due to the lack of resources to outsource these activities.
  • This perpetuates a cycle of poverty for these women.
• The Gruha Lakshmi scheme is highlighted as a significant step in acknowledging the value of unpaid work, particularly as urbanization and an aging population increase the demand for elderly care.
• Addressing Multidimensional and Time Poverty:
  • The scheme is positioned as essential income support rather than a mere ‘freebie,’ recognizing it as an entitlement for the care work performed by women.
  • The monetary support aims to alleviate the strain on families, especially those facing multidimensional and time poverty.
  • As families grapple with increased responsibilities, particularly in caregiving, the Gruha Lakshmi scheme is positioned as a crucial initiative to empower and support women in economically disadvantaged households.
• Empowering Women:
  • Women in a patriarchal economic system often face low wages due to limited bargaining power.
  • Unconditional cash support, such as the Gruha Lakshmi scheme, is seen as a means for women to decontrol their labor power, potentially enhancing their bargaining position and resisting accepting reservation wages.
  • Empirical evidence, citing examples like PM-KISAN, supports the idea that cash transfers to households stimulate aggregate demand, fostering economic growth.
  • Direct support measures, including cash transfers during the COVID-19 pandemic, contributed to a swift economic recovery.
  • The Gruha Lakshmi scheme is expected to boost aggregate demand, given its target group’s high propensity to consume, thereby improving quality of life and fostering economic activities.
• Redistribution of Resources and Funding Mechanisms:
  • The scheme represents a significant government-driven redistribution of resources to marginalized sections, recognizing the value of unpaid work.
  • However, the funding for such schemes needs to be augmented from direct taxes on high-value property, capital transactions, and excise taxes on premium liquor.
  • Prudent administrative measures, like trimming unnecessary expenditures, can further ensure sufficient resources for timely and uninterrupted cash transfers, emphasizing the importance of a transparent resource augmentation roadmap.
• Caution Against Viewing Gruha Lakshmi as a Panacea:
  • While the Gruha Lakshmi scheme is expected to provide much needed assistance to women, it should not be viewed as a panacea for gender inequality.
  • There’s a call to universalize support for women, recognizing their unpaid and care work.
  • The need for a comprehensive institutional framework at national and sub-national levels, as well as cooperative federalism, to address gender inequality in the economy and ensure effective redistribution is highlighted.
  • Fiscal prudence is crucial but should not compromise the welfare of the marginalized.

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Pakistan and Iran: calm after the storm

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : TH

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A recent series of events involving missile strikes between Iran and Pakistan’s Balochistan provinces led to heightened tensions, reciprocal diplomatic measures, and eventual de-escalation.

• This diplomatic episode highlighted the complex relationship between the two Baloch provinces.

Key Highlights

• Unique Characteristics of Baloch Provinces:
  • Sistan-Baluchestan (Iran):
    • One of Iran’s largest provinces, sharing borders with Pakistan’s Balochistan and Afghanistan’s southern provinces.
    • Dominated by the Baloch majority, with a minority of Sistanis, and marked by a Sunni-Shia religious divide.
  • Balochistan (Pakistan):
    • The largest province in Pakistan, with a Baloch majority, facing challenges from Pashtun ingress.
    • Baloch are a minority within Pakistan.
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  • Border Dynamics:
    • The Pakistan-Iran border stretches around 900 km, contrasting with the disputed Pakistan-Afghanistan border.
    • Both nations are constructing a border wall to curb illegal crossings but struggle to prevent smuggling, particularly along the maritime borders.
  • Strategic Ports:
    • Gwadar (Pakistan) and Chabahar (Iran):
      • These neighboring ports, located less than 200 km apart on the Arabian Sea, are of immense strategic importance.
      • China and India have invested significantly in Gwadar and Chabahar, considering them crucial entry and exit points for maritime and mainland Asia.
      • Control of these ports is pivotal for the national capitals of Iran and Pakistan.
    • Militant Groups Targeted in Iran-Pakistan Cross-Border Operations
      • Iran’s Target: Jaish al-Adl
        • Background: Iran targeted the Sunni militant group “Jaish al-Adl” in Pakistan’s Balochistan province.
        • Origins: Considered a remnant of Jundullah, the group has been active since the late 2000s, with historical links to al Qaeda.
        • Leadership: Founded by AbdolmalekRigi, Jundullah’s leader, who was captured and executed in 2010.
        • Objectives: Previously fought for “Sunni” rights rather than ethnic Baloch interests, posing a challenge to Iran’s security forces and civilians.
        • After Rigi’s death, some Jundullah members formed Jaish al-Adl, accused of numerous attacks, including a December 2023 assault on an Iranian police station in Rask.
      • Pakistan’s Target: Balochistan Liberation Army and Balochistan Liberation Front
        • Pakistan targeted hideouts of the “Balochistan Liberation Army” and “Balochistan Liberation Front.”
        • Historical Context: Baloch insurgency in Pakistan dates back to 1947, intensifying with the killing of Baloch leader Akbar Bugti.
        • Agenda: Unlike Jaish al-Adl, Baloch militant organizations focus on ethnic rather than sectarian objectives, advocating for greater rights and, in some cases, seeking independence for Balochistan.
      • Distinguishing Factors:
        • While Jaish al-Adl had a Sunni and non-ethnic agenda, Baloch militant groups in Pakistan emphasize ethnic rights and, in certain instances, seek an independent Balochistan.
        • Jaish al-Adl had historical links to al Qaeda, while Baloch militants in Pakistan do not have known connections to international organizations.
      • Rapid Escalation and De-Escalation Dynamics:
        • The missile attacks between Pakistan and Iran led to a quick escalation, marked by diplomatic measures and military actions.
        • However, the de-escalation was even swifter, reflecting a complex interplay of factors.
        • External and Bilateral Pressures:
          • China’s Role: External pressure, notably from China, is believed to have played a role in encouraging de-escalation.
          • China’s influence on both Islamabad and Tehran may have contributed to a desire for a peaceful resolution.
        • Bilateral Dynamics:
          • Beyond external pressures, the bilateral relationship between Pakistan and Iran played a crucial role in the de-escalation.
          • The proximity, shared challenges, and historical ties necessitated a careful handling of the situation.
        • Regional Security Concerns:
          • Both nations recognized the regional security situation and their immediate neighborhood, understanding the consequences of further escalation.
          • Statements from both sides emphasized dialogue, cooperation, and good neighborliness to address common challenges like terrorism.
        • Limited Objectives of Missile Strikes:
          • Iran’s missile strikes in Pakistan were seen as having a specific and limited objective, possibly linked to its broader regional targets in Syria and Iraq.
          • The intent was not to escalate tensions beyond a certain point.
        • Pakistan’s response, targeting a few militant targets in Iran, was viewed as a measured and calculated move, signaling a domestic and bilateral stance without further escalation.
        • Efforts towards rapprochement in recent years might have influenced the crisis resolution.
          • Both nations appeared reluctant to jeopardize these diplomatic efforts, contributing to a cautious approach in managing the situation.
        • Ongoing Challenges in Pakistan-Iran Relations
          • The relationship between Pakistan and Iran, despite initial recognition, has been troubled since the 1979 Iranian revolution and Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq’s regime in the 1980s.
          • The Sunni-Shia sectarian divide became prominent, overshadowing the “brotherly Muslim countries” rhetoric.
          • During the Cold War and post-9/11, Iran perceived Pakistan as being under American influence.
          • The two countries found themselves on opposite sides globally.
          • Recent attempts by China to bring them closer mark a shift in alignments.
          • Regionally, the struggle for supremacy in West Asia places Iran and Saudi Arabia on opposing camps, with Pakistan aligning with the latter.
          • Differing views on Afghanistan and the Taliban, as well as historical perceptions of Iran’s closeness to India, have added to regional tensions.
          • Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities are seen as Sunni-centric, leading Tehran to contemplate developing its own nuclear capabilities to represent the Shia world.
          • The economic relationship between the two nations is not robust enough to create a strong political foundation.
          • Iran’s intention to seek international arbitration over Pakistan’s reluctance to proceed with the Iran-Pakistan pipeline underscores the economic challenges.

In Image: Major Ethnic groups

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India nominates 12 forts of Marathas for UNESCO World Heritage List

(General Studies- Paper I)

Source : TH

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India has submitted the “Maratha Military Landscapes” for consideration in the UNESCO World Heritage list for 2024-25.

• This network of forts, comprising 12 components including iconic ones like Raigad and Shivneri, exemplifies the strategic military prowess of the Maratha rulers.
• The nomination encompasses forts spread across Maharashtra and Gingee Fort in Tamil Nadu.

Key Highlights

• Extraordinary Fortification:
  • Evolving between the 17th and 19th centuries, the Maratha Military Landscapes showcase an exceptional fortification and military system envisioned by Maratha rulers.
  • The forts are strategically positioned across diverse landscapes such as Sahyadri mountain ranges, Konkan Coast, Deccan Plateau, and the Eastern Ghats in the Indian Peninsula, demonstrating the Marathas’ understanding of landscape integration.
  • This network of forts, with variations in hierarchies, scales, and typological features, represents the military strength of the Marathas.
  • The nominated forts include Salher, Lohagad, Raigad, Pratapgad, and others, providing a comprehensive view of Maratha military architecture.
  • Spread across distinct geographical and physiographic regions, the forts collectively highlight the diverse strategic capabilities of the Maratha rule.
• Historical Context:
  • Originating in the 17th century under ChhatrapatiShivajiMaharaj, the Maratha military ideology persisted through subsequent rules until the Peshwa rule in 1818 CE.
  • The nomination falls under the category of cultural property, emphasizing the historical and cultural significance of the Maratha Military Landscapes.
• Current Status:
  • India presently boasts 42 World Heritage sites, with 34 being cultural sites, seven natural sites, and one mixed site.
  • The “Maratha Military Landscapes” is the sixth cultural property nominated from Maharashtra and was previously included in the Tentative List of World Heritage sites in 2021.

About the UNESCO World Heritage list

• The UNESCO World Heritage designation is a prestigious status granted to cultural, natural, or mixed properties around the world that are deemed to possess outstanding universal value.
• Objectives:
  • The primary goals of the World Heritage initiative are to identify, protect, and preserve cultural and natural heritage for present and future generations.
  • It aims to encourage international collaboration in safeguarding these unique sites.
• Selection Criteria:
  • Properties nominated for the World Heritage List must meet specific criteria, including:
    • Criterion (i): Representing a masterpiece of human creative genius.
    • Criterion (ii): Bearing exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or civilization.
    • Criterion (iii): Being directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions.
    • Criterion (iv): Representing a unique or exceptional natural phenomenon.
    • Criterion (v): Being an outstanding example of significant ongoing ecological and biological processes.
  • Types of Heritage:
    • Cultural Heritage: Sites with cultural significance, including monuments, buildings, cities, and cultural landscapes.
    • Natural Heritage: Sites with outstanding natural value, such as natural reserves, ecosystems, and geological formations.
    • Mixed Heritage: Sites that have both cultural and natural significance.
  • Nomination Process:
    • Countries submit nominations for properties within their territories to be included in the World Heritage List.
    • An evaluation process involves review by international experts and advisory bodies before a final decision is made by the World Heritage Committee.
  • World Heritage Committee:
    • The World Heritage Committee, comprised of representatives from different countries, is responsible for implementing the World Heritage Convention.
    • It meets annually to examine new nominations, monitor listed sites, and address conservation issues.
  • Importance of Designation:
    • Inclusion in the World Heritage List brings global recognition and support for the protection and preservation of the designated site.
    • It often leads to increased tourism, funding, and international cooperation in safeguarding the heritage.

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First ever survey puts India’s snow leopard count at 718

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : TH

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India has conducted a groundbreaking four-year-long estimation exercise to assess its snow leopard population, revealing an estimated 718 of these elusive cats in the wild.

• This first-of-its-kind survey provides a crucial baseline for understanding the status of snow leopards in the country.

Key Highlights

• Total Estimated Population: India is home to an estimated 718 snow leopards, a significant milestone in understanding the population dynamics of this elusive species.
• Regional Breakdown:
  • Ladakh: The region boasts the highest concentration, with an estimated 477 snow leopards.
  • Other States: Uttarakhand (124), Himachal Pradesh (51), Arunachal Pradesh (36), Sikkim (21), and Jammu and Kashmir (9).
• India’s snow leopard population is estimated to represent 10-15% of the global population of these endangered cats.
• Survey Methodology:
  • Camera Traps: The exercise utilized camera traps set up in 1,971 locations, covering challenging mountainous terrain.
  • Trail Surveys: Teams surveyed 13,450 km of trails, recording signs of snow leopards such as scat, hair, and other body markers.
  • Comparison to Tiger Surveys: Similar to tiger population surveys, the states conducted the surveys, and the Wildlife Institute of India in Dehradun employed software and statistical methods to estimate the total population.
• Significance:
  • This comprehensive survey marks a significant step in understanding and conserving the snow leopard population in India, providing a foundation for future conservation efforts.
  • The exercise’s success demonstrates the effectiveness of camera traps and trail surveys in estimating elusive wildlife populations, contributing valuable insights for wildlife conservation globally.
  • The Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India (SPAI), initiated in 2019, utilized a statistical approach similar to tiger surveys, ensuring a rigorous and scientifically established estimation of snow leopard numbers.
  • The study involved collaboration between the WII, World Wide Fund for Nature-India, and the Nature Conservation Foundation, Mysuru.
• Snow Leopard Conservation Status and Threats:
  • The snow leopard is classified as ‘vulnerable’ by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), facing threats from free-ranging dogs, human-wildlife conflicts, and poaching.
  • Scientific surveys for snow leopard population estimation commenced in the 1980s, but undefined ranges limited accurate assessments.
  • Unlike tigers, snow leopards face less poaching pressure.
• Previous Estimates and Survey Improvements:
  • Earlier estimates ranged from 400-700 individuals, with limited research attention given to approximately one-third of the snow leopard’s range before 2016.
  • The ongoing survey has significantly enhanced understanding, covering 80% of the range (about 79,745 km2) compared to 56% in 2016, marking substantial progress.

About Snow Leopard

• The snow leopard, scientifically known as Pantherauncia, belongs to the genus Panthera within the family Felidae.
• Commonly referred to as the ounce, it is a large cat species native to the mountainous regions of Central and South Asia.
• Conservation Status:
  • The snow leopard is categorized as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List due to its declining population.
  • In India, the snow leopard is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, giving it the highest protection status under the country’s laws.
  • Global estimates suggest there are fewer than 10,000 mature individuals, with a projected 10% decline by 2040.
  • Primary threats to its survival include poaching and habitat destruction, particularly due to infrastructural development projects.
• Habitat and Distribution:
  • Snow leopards inhabit alpine and subalpine zones at elevations ranging from 3,000 to 4,500 meters (9,800 to 14,800 feet).
  • Their range spans from eastern Afghanistan, the Himalayas, and the Tibetan Plateau to southern Siberia, Mongolia, and western China.
  • While primarily found in high-altitude regions, they also occur at lower elevations in the northern part of their range.
• Threats and Conservation Efforts:
  • Poaching and habitat loss due to human activities pose significant threats to snow leopards.
  • Efforts to conserve the species focus on mitigating these threats through anti-poaching measures, habitat protection, and community-based conservation initiatives.
  • Collaboration among governments, conservation organizations, and local communities is essential for effective snow leopard conservation.

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