UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 8 June 2024

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 8 June 2024 covers important current affairs of the day, their backward linkages, their relevance for Prelims exam and MCQs on main articles

InstaLinks : Insta Links help you think beyond the current affairs issue and help you think multidimensionally to develop depth in your understanding of these issues. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions in your mind that might arise(or an examiner might imagine) from each current event. InstaLinks also connect every issue to their static or theoretical background.

Table of Contents

GS Paper : 2 (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 8 June 2024)

Child Nutrition Report, 2024 Biopharmaceutical Alliance AUKUS alliance and its pivot to France

GS Paper 3:

State of the Ocean Report 2024

Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)

“Air of the Anthropocene” project

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Non-Permanent Members of the UNSC Duty Drawbacks Milgromian Dynamics (MOND) Theory Musankwa sanyatiensis Nagi and Nakti bird sanctuaries: Two more sites added to Ramsar List

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 8 June 2024

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 8 June 2024 [PDF] GS Paper 2

Child Nutrition Report, 2024

Syllabus: Government Policies and Intervention/ Health

Source: UNICEF

Context: UNICEF has released its Child Nutrition Report 2024 , highlighting the severe level of Child Food Poverty globally.

What is Child Food Poverty (CFP)?

The inability of children, especially in early childhood (first five years), to access and consume a nutritious and diverse diet.

Source of Image: UNICEF Report

Key Findings of the Report:

Prevalence: 27% of children globally; 40% in India (2nd highest in South Asia). Systemic Failure : CFP results from failing governance systems, not failing families. Poor Diet : Rise in unhealthy food consumption replacing nutrient-rich options. Income and CFP: Affects both poor and non-poor households, showing income isn’t the sole factor. Slow Progress : Global efforts are slow in ending CFP Diet Quality : Children in severe CFP lack nutrient-rich foods; unhealthy foods dominate. Crisis Impact : Global food/nutrition crises, conflicts, and climate shocks worsen CFP. Undernutrition Link : Higher CFP correlates with higher stunting rates. Drivers : Poor food environments, poor feeding practices, climate crisis and household income poverty.

Status of CFP in India:

Consequences of CFP in India

Health Implications: Stunted Growth; Weakened Immune System; Micronutrient Deficiencies Educational Consequences : Cognitive Impairment; Higher School Dropout Rates Economic Impact: Productivity Loss ; Increased Healthcare Costs Inter-generational Impact: Maternal and Child Health Issues ; Long-term Health Effects Social Consequences: Increased Vulnerability ; Stigma and Discrimination Impact on National Development : Reduced Human Capital; Increased Healthcare Burden

Key Challenges in Handling CFP in India

Economic Inequality: 74% can’t afford a healthy diet. Inadequate Dietary Intake : Shift to low-quality, processed foods lacking essential nutrients. Poor Sanitation : Only 69% use improved sanitation facilities. Lack of Health Infrastructure : Low doctor ( 0. 73 ) and nurse ( 1.74 ) density per 1000 people. Delayed/Inconsistent Delivery : Only 50. 3% of children receive Anganwadi services. Inadequate Monitoring : Poor assessment of program effectiveness.

Initiatives taken by India:

Recommendations of the Child Nutrition Report 2024:

Enhance data systems to assess CFP severity. Reform food systems to make nutritious foods accessible, affordable, and desirable. Utilize health systems for essential nutrition services , including child feeding counselling. Transform food, health, and social protection systems for children.

What more needs to be done:

Fortification: Add essential nutrients to staple foods (e.g., iodised salt). SBCC Plan: Develop a targeted Social and Behavior Change Communication (SBCC) plan. Healthcare Infrastructure : Improve facilities, especially in rural areas; train healthcare workers. Monitoring : Use robust systems like the Poshan Tracker for real-time data. Local Foods : Promote consumption of nutritious, locally available foods. Community Empowerment : Involve communities in nutrition programs. Communication : Use local languages and various channels (radio, videos, outreach).

Insta Links:

Mains Links:

How far do you agree with the view that the focus on lack of availability of food as the main cause of hunger takes the attention away from ineffective human development policies in India? (UPSC 2018)

Prelims Links:

Which of the following is/are the indicators/ indicators used by IFPRI to compute the Global Hunger Index Report? (UPSC 2016) Undernourishment Child stunting Child mortality Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1, 2 and 3

(d) 1 and 3 only Ans: C

Biopharmaceutical Alliance

Syllabus: International Relations

Source: TH

Context: India, South Korea, the United States, Japan, and the European Union (EU) have formed a Biopharmaceutical Alliance to address drug supply shortages during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Aim of the Alliance:

The alliance aims to coordinate bio policies, regulations, and research and development support measures among participating countries. Inaugural meeting held in San Diego during the Bio International Convention 2024 , emphasized the importance of a reliable and sustainable supply chain . The initiative originated from discussions between South Korea and the U.S. and expanded to include Japan, India, and the EU.

Drug supply shortages during the Covid-19 pandemic

Vaccines : Shortages of Covid-19 vaccines occurred globally, impacting various countries’ vaccination efforts. Therapeutics : Drugs such as Remdesivir , used for treating severe Covid-19 cases, experienced shortages in many countries. Medical Oxygen : As COVID-19 cases surged, many countries faced shortages of medical oxygen, crucial for treating severe respiratory symptoms. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Shortages of PPE, including masks, gloves, and gowns, occurred worldwide, posing risks to frontline healthcare workers.

Free equitable and fair drug supply ensures:

Access to essential medicines for all populations. Availability of affordable treatments , especially in developing countries. Equitable distribution of medications , reducing disparities in healthcare. Promotion of public health by addressing global health challenges. Supports disease prevention , treatment, and eradication efforts worldwide.

India as pharmacy of the world:

India has earned the title “Pharmacy of the World ” due to its robust generic pharmaceutical industry, supplying affordable and quality medicines globally. This reputation grew during the HIV/AIDS pandemic when Indian companies provided affordable antiretroviral drugs to African countries . India’s generic industry became a major supplier after the establishment of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria.

India’s Vaccine Diplomacy:

Widespread Vaccine Access : India ensures COVID-19 vaccines are globally accessible. IPR Waiver: Proposes a WTO waiver on intellectual property rights to make vaccines more affordable. Major Supplier : Becomes a significant vaccine supplier, notably through partnerships with Serum Institute of India (SII) and Bharat Biotech International Ltd. Neighbourhood Focus : Implements a “Neighbourhood First” policy, prioritizing vaccine assistance to South Asian countries. Global Assistance : Provides vaccine aid to African countries and UN health workers through COVAX.

Significance of India’s Vaccine Diplomacy:

Development Partnership : Reflects India’s long-standing commitment to global health and development. Commercial Terms : Exports vaccines on commercial terms to upper-middle-income countries. Diplomatic Relations : Restores strained relations, as seen with Canada, through vaccine diplomacy. Countering Vaccine Nationalism : India’s sharing policy contrasts with the trend of vaccine hoarding by other nations. Global Health Diplomacy (GHD ): Positions India as a key player in GHD, contributing to peace, equity, and global health security.

Additional Points:

Recent Issues with the substandard drugs of India:

Impact Example Adverse health effects In 2022, the World Health Organization linked the deaths of almost 60 children in Gambia to substandard cough syrups manufactured in India. Loss of trust in the healthcare system In 2019, the case of supplying substandard and falsified antiretroviral drugs to the government in South Africa. Economic losses for patients and the healthcare system Patients may have to spend more money on healthcare due to the need for additional treatments and hospitalizations. Legal and regulatory consequences for manufacturers In 2021, a firm was seized in Agra City (UP) for purchasing expired drugs at low costs and reselling them with new packaging. The company may face legal consequences for these actions.

Insta Links:

Mains Link:

How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies? (UPSC 2019)

AUKUS alliance and its pivot to France

Syllabus: International Relations

Source: BS

Context: The article discusses the AUKUS alliance among the US, UK, and Australia to bolster military capabilities against China , including sharing nuclear submarine technology .

What is AUKUS ?

AUKUS, a trilateral partnership formed in 2021 , aims to bolster security and defence interests, primarily countering China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific region . It entails deeper information and technology sharing, along with the integration of security-related industries. India is not a member but has engaged in informal talks with the AUKUS bloc on emerging technologies, though no formal dialogue has taken place yet.

Technologies shared among AUKUS :

AUKUS shares nuclear submarine propulsion technology with Australia, marking the first time the U.S. has done so outside the UK. Additionally, the partnership spans eight high-tech military domains, including AI, quantum technologies, cyber warfare, undersea warfare, hypersonic technologies, electronic warfare, and innovation/information sharing. For instance, an algorithm enhancing sonobuoy data sharing from P-8 Poseidon aircraft is among the initial technologies utilized.

AUKUS’s impact on India :

Despite operating similar aircraft to AUKUS nations, India wasn’t offered participation in AUKUS’s nuclear technology sharing. Traditionally, the US reserves such technology for closer allies.

What can be an alternative for India?

France could be a strategic partner for India , especially in developing nuclear submarine technology. France’s use of low-enriched uranium aligns with non-proliferation standards, making it a suitable option. The existing strategic relationship between France and India could support this partnership.

Significance of Indo-Pacific :

The Indo-Pacific region has emerged as a critical geopolitical and geoeconomic space , capturing the attention of major powers around the world. India being the source of the name “Indo” in the region, has been a key partner of various like-minded stakeholders, led by the USA.

Elements of India’s Indo-Pacific Approach :

Security and Défense Cooperation : India emphasizes the importance of a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, with a focus on maritime security and defence cooperation.

: India emphasizes the importance of a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, with a focus on maritime security and defence cooperation. Connectivity and Infrastructure Development : India promotes connectivity and infrastructure development in the Indo-Pacific, emphasizing the principles of transparency, sustainability, and respect for sovereignty.

: India promotes connectivity and infrastructure development in the Indo-Pacific, emphasizing the principles of transparency, sustainability, and respect for sovereignty. Economic Cooperation and Trade : India advocates for enhanced economic cooperation and trade in the Indo-Pacific, aiming to foster economic growth, shared prosperity, and sustainable development. Initiatives like the Act East policy and East Asia Summit, focus on strengthening economic linkages with Southeast Asian countries.

India advocates for enhanced economic cooperation and trade in the Indo-Pacific, aiming to foster economic growth, shared prosperity, and sustainable development. Initiatives like the Act East policy and East Asia Summit, focus on strengthening economic linkages with Southeast Asian countries. People-to-People Exchanges : India emphasizes people-to-people exchanges, cultural diplomacy, and soft power initiatives as essential components of its Indo-Pacific approach.

: India emphasizes people-to-people exchanges, cultural diplomacy, and soft power initiatives as essential components of its Indo-Pacific approach. Multilateralism and Regional Cooperation : India believes in the importance of multilateralism and regional cooperation in addressing common challenges and it actively engages in forums such as ASEAN-led mechanisms, QUAD, BIMSTEC et al to promote dialogue, cooperation, and collective action.

The extent to which India’s approach aligns with the objectives and initiatives of the QUAD and AUKUS:

Positive alignment :

Free and open Indo-Pacific : India’s Indo-Pacific approach aligns with the objective of the QUAD and AUKUS to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

India’s Indo-Pacific approach aligns with the objective of the QUAD and AUKUS to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Defence and maritime security focus : India’s emphasis on security cooperation and maritime security aligns with the objectives of the QUAD and AUKUS.

: India’s emphasis on security cooperation and maritime security aligns with the objectives of the QUAD and AUKUS. China’s aggression in the region : India’s Indo-Pacific approach aligns with the concerns of the QUAD and AUKUS regarding China’s assertive actions in the Indo-Pacific region. All three entities share a common objective of maintaining a balance of power.

: India’s Indo-Pacific approach aligns with the concerns of the QUAD and AUKUS regarding China’s assertive actions in the Indo-Pacific region. All three entities share a common objective of maintaining a balance of power. US alignment : India’s Indo-Pacific approach aligns with the US’s strategic vision for the Indo-Pacific region. The QUAD and AUKUS are initiatives driven by the US, and India’s alignment with these entities demonstrates its commitment to strategic partnerships and cooperation with the US.

Limitations:

Going over security : While India’s Indo-Pacific approach emphasizes multi-sectoral cooperation, the QUAD and AUKUS have a stronger focus on defence and military cooperation.

While India’s Indo-Pacific approach emphasizes multi-sectoral cooperation, the QUAD and AUKUS have a stronger focus on defence and military cooperation. Regional focus : India’s Indo-Pacific approach encompasses a more regional focus limited to the Indian Ocean, whereas the QUAD and AUKUS have a broader focus on the Indo-Pacific as a whole with the Pacific side in focus.

: India’s Indo-Pacific approach encompasses a more regional focus limited to the Indian Ocean, whereas the QUAD and AUKUS have a broader focus on the Indo-Pacific as a whole with the Pacific side in focus. Engagement with China-led groupings : India’s approach to engaging with China-led groupings, such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the BRICS, may differ from the positions of the QUAD and AUKUS.

: India’s approach to engaging with China-led groupings, such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the BRICS, may differ from the positions of the QUAD and AUKUS. ASEAN Centrality : The ASEAN countries play a central role in the Indo-Pacific region, and their centrality gets tacit approval from India’s vision. However, QUAD-AUKUS do not recognise ASEAN centrality to the same degree.

Insta Links:

Mains Links:

The new tri-nation partnership AUKUS is aimed at countering China’s ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. Is it going to supersede the existing partnerships in the region? Discuss the strength and impact of AUKUS in the present scenario. (UPSC 2021)

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 8 June 2024 [PDF] GS Paper 3:

State of the Ocean Report 2024

Syllabus: Environment Conservation

Source: UNESCO

Context: Recently, UNESCO’s State of Ocean Report 2024 was released

More about the State of Ocean Report:

The UNESCO State of Ocean Report 2024, initiated by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC-UNESCO) during the 2022 United Nations Ocean Conference , serves as a comprehensive overview of the ocean’s current condition. Its primary aim is to track the progress of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030) and inspire efforts towards ensuring a sustainable future for our oceans.

Initially introduced in 2022, the report enlisted insights from over 100 marine science experts, covering critical topics such as ocean acidification, pollution, and tsunami warnings. Released annually on World Oceans Day (June 8), each edition of the report aligns with the seven goals of the UN Ocean Decade , aiming to foster global collaboration and action for the protection and preservation of our oceans.

Key Findings of the Report:

Ocean Warming : Rate doubled in 20 years; 2023 saw a significant increase; Hotspots above 2°C in the Mediterranean, Tropical Atlantic Ocean, and Southern Oceans Rising sea level : Sea levels rising, with ocean heat absorption contributing 40%; Accelerated ice mass loss from Greenland and West Antarctica Declining Oxygen Levels : The Ocean lost 2% oxygen since the 1960s; coastal areas are heavily impacted.; Rising acidity threatens coastal species’ survival. Blue Carbon and MPAs: Marine forests are crucial for carbon absorption; Marine Protected Areas protect biodiversity; However, many countries lack marine forest conservation in their plans. Acidification : Ocean absorbs 25% of annual anthropogenic CO2; Reduces seawater pH (ocean acidification); Expected to increase by over 100% by the century’s end.

Challenges in protecting the ocean:

Illegal, Unreported and Unregular (IUU) Fishing : Depletes fish stocks; disrupts marine ecosystems; Approx. 33% of global fish stocks overfished Climate Change : Rises Ocean temperatures; increases acidity; Oceans absorbed over 90% of excess heat since the 1970s; 30% of carbon dioxide, increasing acidity. Pollution: Includes plastic waste, oil spills, and agricultural runoff; Harms marine life; creates dead zones. Unsustainable Tourism : High demand for activities like snorkeling, and diving; Leads to habitat destruction, pollution, and overfishing. Invasive Species: Disrupts marine ecosystems; harms native species; Invasive species are Introduced via ballast water, accidental release. Lack of Governance: Only 16% of oceans are covered by MPAs; high seas lack protection and coordination.

Key recommendations of the Report:

Coastal Blue Carbon Ecosystems : Mangroves, seagrasses, and tidal marshes provide refuge against a warmer, more acidic ocean. Marine Spatial Planning : Implement to alleviate pressures on marine ecosystems. Increase Seafloor Knowledge: Globally enhance efforts; 75% of the ocean floor remains unmapped. Engage Indigenous Peoples : Involve in marine policy and planning for a sustainable ocean future. Promote Ocean Literacy : Foster universal appreciation of the ocean’s vital role in society. Adaptation to local changes is vital .

Initiatives for Ocean Protection:

BBNJ (Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction) Treaty (2023): Also known as the Treaty of the High Seas, aims to conserve and sustainably use marine biological diversity beyond national jurisdiction. Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal (mCDR) Technologies : Capture CO2 from the air and store it durably. Marine Biodiversity: The UN 2030 Agenda emphasizes marine biodiversity protection for sustainable food security. Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework aims to protect 30% of the ocean by 2030. Creation of Marine Protected Areas (MPA): 50% of catalogued marine species are found in Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), covering 9% of the ocean. Case Study: Marine Protected Area (MPA) Success in the Coral Triangle : The success story of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in the Coral Triangle, a marine region in Southeast Asia renowned for its biodiversity, showcases the efficacy of conservation efforts. Through the establishment and meticulous management of a network of MPAs, the Coral Triangle has witnessed a significant recovery of coral reefs, has augmented fish populations, and enriched biodiversity within the protected areas.

Fig: Coral Triangle

About UNESCO-IOC The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO (IOC/UNESCO) was established in 1961 by resolution 2.31 of the General Conference of UNESCO. It assists governments in addressing ocean and coastal management needs through knowledge sharing, technology, and capacity building. The IOC plays a crucial role in the sustainable development discourse, supporting the creation of Sustainable Development Goal 14 and engaging in partnerships for ocean sustainability with organizations like the CBD, UN-Oceans, and the World Ocean Assessment.

Insta Links:

How to save our high seas from overfishing and pollution?

Mains Link:

With respect to the South China sea, maritime territorial disputes and rising tension affirm the need for safeguarding maritime security to ensure freedom of navigation and overflight throughout the region. In this context, discuss the bilateral issues between India and China. (UPSC 2018)

Prelims Link:

With reference to the United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea, consider the following statements: A coastal state has the right to establish the breadth of its territorial sea up to a limit not exceeding 12 nautical miles, measured from baseline determined in accordance with the convention. Ships of all states, whether coastal or land-locked, enjoy the right of innocent passage through the territorial sea. The Exclusive Economic Zone shall not extend beyond 200 nautical miles from the baseline from which the breadth of the territorial sea is measured. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (d)

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 8 June 2024 [PDF] Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)

“Air of the Anthropocene” project

Source: TH

The “Air of the Anthropocene” project utilizes light painting to visually represent air pollution in India, Ethiopia, and the UK, highlighting significant health risks and initiating global conversations on air quality. Created by artist Robin Price and an environmental scientist at the University of Birmingham to document air pollution levels around the world through photography.

This international initiative combines art and science to create photographic evidence of air pollution using digital light painting techniques and low-cost air pollution sensors.

Particulate matter (PM), including PM10 and PM2.5 , is a key focus of the project, with PM concentrations measured in real-time using sensors and visualized through a moving LED array.

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 8 June 2024 [PDF] Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Non-Permanent Members of the UNSC

Source: TOI

Context: Pakistan, Panama, Somalia, Denmark, and Greece have been elected as non-permanent members of the UN Security Council for a two-year term starting in 2025. This marks Pakistan’s 8th term as a non-permanent member

India has been elected as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council 8 times, the last being 2021-2022.

About UNSC : The UNSC is one of the six principal organs of the UN, along with the UNGA, Economic and Social Council, Trusteeship Council, International Court of Justice, and UN Secretariat. It consists of 15 members, with five permanent members (China, France, Russia, the UK, and the US) holding veto power. The UNSC has primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) annually elects five non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for a two-year term through a secret ballot.

Duty Drawbacks

Source: PIB

Context: Starting from June 5th, 2024, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has initiated electronic disbursal of duty drawback amounts directly to exporters’ bank accounts through the Public Finance Management System (PFMS).

What are Duty Drawbacks? Duty drawback, governed by section 75 of the Customs Act, 1962, refunds customs duty on imported or excisable materials used in the production of export goods . This mechanism assists exporters in mitigating some of the expenses incurred during the export process , particularly within the supply or value chain. Electronic disbursal of duty drawback aims to streamline the process, reduce processing time, eliminate manual intervention, and enhance transparency in customs operations. This initiative aligns with CBIC’s commitment to paperless customs and trade facilitation, building upon its implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). Fig: Mechanism of duty drawback (a similar mechanism is followed in India)

Milgromian dynamics (MOND) Theory

Source: Phy org

Context: The Cassini mission’s findings challenge Milgromian dynamics (MOND) , an alternative theory to dark matter, which predicts subtle deviations in celestial orbits due to weak gravity.

Cassini is a joint endeavour of NASA, the European Space Agency, and the Italian Space Agency to study Saturn and its complex system of rings and moons.

What is the theory of Dark Matter and what is its alternative theory?

The theory of dark matter proposes that there is an unseen form of matter in the universe , which does not emit light but exerts gravitational forces, explaining phenomena like the faster-than-expected rotation of galaxies .

In contrast, Milgromian dynamics (MOND) says that those deviations from Newton’s laws of gravity occur at very weak gravitational fields, such as those found at the edges of galaxies. MOND suggests modifying gravity rather than invoking unseen dark matter. It seeks to replace Newtonian dynamics and General Relativity.

However, recent observations, including those from the Cassini mission and studies of celestial bodies , have cast doubt on MOND’s predictions, indicating that it fails to explain various phenomena accurately . Therefore, MOND is not considered a correct alternative to the theory of dark matter.

Musankwa sanyatiensis

Source: phy org

Context: Scientists have discovered fossils of a new dinosaur species, Musankwa sanyatiensis, along the shores of Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe .

This plant-eating dinosaur lived in swampy areas during the Late Triassic period, about 210 million years ago . It is named after the houseboat used during the expeditions and the Sanyati River flowing into Lake Kariba. Musankwa sanyatiensis is the first dinosaur named from the Mid-Zambezi Basin in over 50 years and only the fourth ever named from Zimbabwe.

What are Dinosaurs?

Dinosaurs (a diverse group of reptiles), originating around 243 to 233 million years ago, diversified into various forms during the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. They include birds, which evolved from theropods, and extinct non-avian dinosaurs. Over 900 genera and 1,000 species of non-avian dinosaurs have been identified. Once thought sluggish, modern research indicates dinosaurs were active with varied adaptations. They ranged in size, from small to the largest land animals ever known.

Nagi and Nakti bird sanctuaries: Two more sites added to Ramsar List

Source: IE

Context: Nagi and Nakti bird sanctuaries in Bihar’s Jamui district are now recognized under the Ramsar Convention, bringing India’s total Ramsar sites to 82 .

About Nagi-Nakti Wetland:

Nagi-Nakti Wetlands in Bihar’s Jamui district, nestled within the Jhajha forest range , are man-made reservoirs surrounded by dry deciduous forests and hills. Developed primarily for irrigation, they host diverse flora and fauna, including over 150 bird species , mammals, fish, aquatic plants, reptiles, and amphibians.

They are also designated as Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas by BirdLife International . They provide habitat for various migratory and resident bird species. The

About Ramsar Convention: It was adopted in 1971 and aims to conserve and wisely use wetlands and their resources, with India becoming a party in 1982. India and China rank third globally for Ramsar Sites, each with 82 sites. The United Kingdom leads with 175, followed by Mexico with 144. India’s Ramsar Sites have increased from 26 to 82 in the last decade, with 40 added in the past three years.

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 8 June 2024 [PDF]

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