QF1) Green highways is an innovative concept balancing environmental needs with developmental needs.

In this
context mention key features of government of Indias newly launched Green highways policy. Add a note on positive
potential benefits of this scheme.
Project likes *Green highways* are an excellent examples of *sustainable development* because usually road
construction involves consumption of resources, damage to ecosystem, generation of pollution of all forms , which
cannot be adequately compensated unless policies like Green highways are made integral to project implementation.
Following are the features of green highway policy:
1)1% of the total project cost should be kept aside as *green highways fund.*
2) strict auditing has been made mandatory utilising services of ISRO, in generating images of project implementation
along with annual audits , and awarding contracts for subsequent years only if implementation agencies meet certain
goals.
3) private companies, NGOs, government agencies with proven track record are made part of implementation.
4) wherever possible *transplantation* of existing trees is asked for, and *native species* which can withstand local
climatic conditions are encouraged in plantations. Benefits that might accrue in its effective implementation:
a)it can generate substantial employment to locals both during planting stages and after the trees are grown. For
instance planting of 1km generates employment to 15 people. Similarly plantation of trees like mangoes, tamarind
have alternate livelihood generation benefits.
B)it can reduce the impact of air pollution, dust pollution, noice pollution also soil erosion along the embankments
would be minimised.
C) growing plants along highway median strips and edges will reduce the impact of glare caused by ongoing vehicles ,
thus can reduce *road traffic accidents*. Thus it can be established that policies like this should be conceived in all
sectors where resources consumption and environmental damage happens to bring down negative externalities of such
projects , it would also contribute to India's long term commitment to add *2.5 to 3 billion tonnes CO2 equivalent* as
carbon stocks.
QF2) Nature exhibits great resilience to come back to normalcy when we try to correct our failings, this should drive all
our future efforts in environmental conservation. In this context give a detailed discussion of the issue of healing of
depleted ozone layer over Antarctica.
A) Recent findings by scientific community established beyond doubt that *ozone layer* is healing on its own.
When it comes to identifying the reasons for such phenomenon, global community realised the threat of depletion of
ozone layer and its impact on human health and environment 3 decades ago, they acted responsibly and with
unanimous consensus adopted *Montreal protocol* on ozone depleting substances, which prevents usage of some
harmful substances like *chlorofluorocarbons, hydro chlorofluorocarbons* etc among others.
They also took a vow to implement it responsibly and included strict monitoring and evaluation mechanisms coupled
with financial support and technological support to some extent to developing countries. All the above efforts paid off
and OZONE layer is now repleted in *4 million square kms*.
This is a significant achievement as it shows how spirit of concern for posterity and *intergenerational equity* are
fostered by world communities and they came together keeping aside their partisan considerations. Similar spirit
should drive all the nations in their future endeavours to protect *GLOBAL COMMONS* with a motivation that nature
when left to itself can exhibit enormous resilience to bounce back to normalcy.
QF3)Paris climate agreement claimed as the most significant effort in the direction of protecting the planet from
climate change is far from being perfect. In this context identify the shortcomings of Paris climate change agreement.
Give some suitable solutions to adress the deficiencies in present agreement.
AF3)Paris climate change agreement can be considered as a comprehensive agreement to adress the impending
disasters of climate change related phenomenon. It takes up several path breaking commitments with respect to green
house gas emissions, climate change mitigation, adaptation, and financing to begin with the year 2020. Though
foreign Minister of France , and head of the conference called it as a *historic turning point*" deal it has its own set of
short comings.
Following are the deficiencies in the deal:
1)The deal aims to limit the rise of the temperature to well below *2degrees centigrade* above pre industrial levels.
The agreement also asks the countries to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to *1.5 degrees* above pre

industrial levels. However scientists claim that the target should have been 1.5 degrees instead of 2 degrees centigrade
to adress the concerns of *small island nations.*
2) *intended nationally determined contributions* are non binding , lack specificity, and they do not have normative
character. Also there is neither an enforcement mechanism, nor monitoring to compel nations to have a binding
commitment period. Present INDC's are not sufficient to limit temperature raise to 2 degrees centigrade.
3)The agreement says that developed countries would take a lead in mobilising *climate finance* from multiple
sources but falls short of mentioning explicitly how much and in what time? this mobilisation would happen.
4)Paris agreement calls for a *Transparency framework for action,* with an inbuilt flexibility taking into account
different capacities of parties. But countries like USA are for a *single uniform system*, that evaluates carbon
reductions of all countries on same standards.
*Suitable solutions to adress the problems in agreement:*
1) developed countries should establish a transparent mechanism which transfers atleast 100billion dollars per year
into *climate change fund* , developing nations should also make contributions as per their capabilities.
2) *intended nationally determined contributions* should be framed keeping in mind larger goals of Paris climate
agreement. Existing *Bilateral and multilateral mechanisms* can be suitably leveraged to build momentum in its
effective implementation. If possible countries should volunteer to limit temperature raise to 1.5 degrees centigrade to
adress the concerns of small island nations.
3) *technology transfer* should be accorded the highest priority by developed nations, they can partner with
*Renewable energy industries* of emerging markets to make it a win win situation for both.
4) problems related to *climate change induced displacement* and related loss and damage should be made integral
to all future *disaster management agreements*.
5) emerging nations like BRICS should be proactive by coordinating with both their developed and underdeveloped
counterparts and take up *climate change leadership.*
QF4) Mission Indradhanush has been launched by central government to improve vaccination coverage of the country.
In this context how is mission Indradhanush different from universal immunisation programme. Add a note on pulse
polio switch campaign launched recently.
A)Every year lakhs of Indian children die because of infectious diseases, some of which fall under the category of
*vaccine preventable diseases.* So to adress this health problem government of India launched *universal
immunisation programme* in 1985.
In spite of its reasonable success in few states, country still have *2 crores unvaccinated children,* half of them in 201
districts, in poorly performing states like Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, uttarpradesh, Raja Sarathchandra Kotagiri
sthan.
So primary aim of *mission Indradhanush* is to *cover unvaccinated children* in these underperforming districts on a
mission mode, which is an important difference also this programme is *rounds based,* where in each round of
vaccination is continued for 5- 6 days based on requirement. Also immunisation drive will be through a *catch up
campaign mode* where the aim is to cover all the children left out or missed out from immunisation. Another
important improvement is deeper involvement of *media for awareness generation , concentration on interpersonal
communication of vaccine giving health personnel, and sturdy mechanisms for monitoring and evaluation of the
scheme.* Thus mission Indradhanush can ensure us in realising the vision of achieving *90% vaccine coverage by
2020* from the present 65%.
*Pulse polio switch campaign* is aimed at switching from *trivalent oral polio vaccine which contains all three strains,
type 1, type 2 , type 3 of polio virus to bivalent oral polio vaccine* in which type 2 strain polio virus is discarded and
only type 1 and type 3 are covered. Main idea behind this move is to prevent *vaccine derived polio infection,* because
type 2 strain has been eliminated from India thoroughly and continuing it's usage in public immunisation programme
is not warranted because of ability of inactivated virus to regain its vitality and cause vaccine derived polio infection.
Thus bivalent oral polio vaccine along with *injectable polio vaccine* has the potential to eliminate polio from India.
QF5)what are second generation biofuels. What are the advantages of these fuels when compared to first generation
biofuels? add a note on the significance of implementing recent policy on 2nd generation biofuels released by ministry
of new and renewable energy.

A) second generation bio fuels are those produced from feed stock which comes from from wider range of biomass
resources like agriculture , forestry, and waste materials .
-They are at times called Advanced bio fuels as they result from *processing of bio mass*.
-They are *sustainable and green*' because feed stock comes from non food crops or from food crops after their food
purpose.
Advantages over first generation bio fuels :
1. No food and fuel conflict, As most feed stock is from non food crops.
2. No diversion or scarcity of land ;
as whole plant can be used as feed stock , less farm land is required to produce the same wen compared to its 1st
generation counterparts .
3. More efficient addresses carbon emissions.
4. More environmental friendly.
5. Mixture of crops can be grown along with 2nd generation crops. So no threat to BIO DIVERSITY.
6. Helps to weed out waste disposal and enables recycling.
7. More cost competitive than existing conventional fuels .
Implications of enforcing national bio fuel policy :
1. Widens energy resource base and imparts energy security for Petroleum and oil compounds dependent country like
India .
2. Address the global climate concerns , diplomatically enhances indias credibility on international arena for climate
fight .
3. Provides *gainful agriculture*' thru diversification of cropping and guaranteed forward n backward linkages and
Minimum support prices for non edible oil seeds .
4. Acts as a means for employment generation especially In rural india as policy envisioned converging bio fuel
production with MNREGA .
5. Fosters rural development by financially strengthening gram sabhas , panchayats , SHG's etc who took up bio fuel
production.
6. Assures sugar,
incentives.

distillery industries to meet blending requirements by providing various fiscal and financial

7. By aspiring for setting up bench mark standards for various systems and devices , end use applications in bio fuel
domain , makes india a global leader in renewable energy production sector.
8. Boosts Research AND Development, creates skilled man power by various institutional and capacity building
measures, training and curriculum development helps us to reap the fruits of demographic dividend .
9. By encouraging start ups to invest in bio fuel sector through tax concessions and fiscal measures can. contribute to
*make in india*revolution .
10)Promotes technology transfer and innovation through international collaboration and cooperation in the field of
renewable energy.
QF6) write a breakup of different sources of Renewable energy production in country. What are the recent trends in
structural composition of various sources of energy in Indian . Add a note on offshore wind energy policy.
A)Renewable energy began to receive substantial importance in recent times. Government of India also declared it's
ambition of achieving 175GW of Renewable energy production.
Following is the break up of Renewable energy production sources in India:
A)Wind energy- 62% . 27500 mW.
B)solar power- 8062 mW . 18% .
C)biomass power - 4860mW. 11% .

D)small hydro power - 4300mW 9.6%

E)waste to power: 115mW . 0.3% .
B Recently India witnessed a significant structural shift in its energy landscape, Renewable energy production in total
44770Mw for the first time surpassed hydroelectric power generation. This signifies priority given to low carbon
growth strategies by the ruling governments of the day keeping in mind need to grow sustainably.
QF7) scheduled tribes and other forest dwellers protection of forest rights act has been portrayed as potential game
changer in recognition of community rights over forest land. Nevertheless it failed to sufficiently empower poor and
marginalised tribal populations. Add a note on implementation of above law. Suggest some measures to ensure
smooth functioning of the said law
A) schedule tribes and other forest dwellers protection of forest rights act has given legal protections to *cultural and
livelihood rights* of tribal groups and forest dwellers. Nevertheless it's functioning on the ground is not as expected.
*Following are the challenges in it's implementation:*
1) *ownership rights* recognition and giving entitlements is half done, still many tribal groups are deprived of their
rights as they couldn't provide documentary evidence.
2) *user rights* with respect to minor forest produce are largely violated and forest contractors still continue to exploit
poor tribal groups by paying them paltry sums.
3) *intellectual property rights* over indigenous knowledge inspite of legal protections and documentation in the form
of traditional knowledge digital library, still continues to be ignored due to poor awareness generation efforts among
tribals.
4) *rights to take decision about developmental projects* though received partial success in few high profile cases like
VEDANTA, ATHIRAPALLY HYDRO ELECTRIC POWER PROJECT, but many of these violations either go unreported
or unnoticed. Forest personnel who are expected to lead this cause from front are reluctant.
5)above explanation is also valid with respect to *rights regarding rehabilitation* for displacement induced forced
evictions. *Some measures to improve it's functioning:*
a) granting of land entitlements Should be the first priority and implementation machinery should be sensitised to not
harass poor ignorant tribals for documentary evidence.
B) Minor forest produce collection should be liberalised and tribal people should be given freedom to sell them as per
their wishes, and should be facilitated by credit support, and basic infrastructure for processing faculties.
C) for effective implementation of rights to rehabilitation and rights to decide upon development projects *GRAM
Panchayats* should be strengthened their capacity building should be given importance, along side conversion of
*forest villages to revenue villages* to bring better administrative coordination. Thus it can be said that forest rights
act has the potential to bring out millions of starving tribals from poverty and ensure their human dignity.
QF8)"There has been a substantial raise in the number of environmental crimes in the country" - national crime
records bearueu. What are environmental crimes. What are the reasons for rise in their numbers? Suggest some
solutions to bring down incidence of environmental crimes.
A) Environmental crimes relatively new area of criminology is showing an alarming rise in recent years. According to
*national crime records bearueu*, environmental crimes are increasing at a considerable pace which require a
multitudinous approach to combat them. Environmental crimes encompasses a broad list of activities including
*illegal trading in wild life, illicit trade of hazardous wastes, illegal logging and trade in timber, smuggling of ozone
depleting substances , unregulated and unreported fishing and extraction of marine resources*.
Reasons for rise in environmental crimes:
1. often these crimes are perceived as victimless and incidental , so law enforcement agencies tend to give low priority.
2)large differences in laws between different countries and some times between states in the same countries ,
complicate things and make it difficult to nab environmental criminals.
3)with improved awareness in recent times reporting of crimes increased.
4) involvement of organised criminal groups who can act across the borders is further fuelling it's expansion. Eg:
extremist groups in north east India are trading in wild life products.
5)huge market for wild life products among our neighbours like eg: *demand for rhino horns* in China, Myanmar, and
also similar such demands IN CMLV countries.

6)poor conviction rate and assured financial gains is further emboldening criminals.
7) complexity in tackling them require a multi national and multi sectoral approach which is difficult to sustain for
very long.
*Following are the possible solutions:*
1)first there should be a clear definition of environmental crimes .
2) setting up of *Eco crime courts* at international and regional level for speedy trials and delivery of justice.
3) setting up of *Eco crime police* at national and international levels .
4) strengthening of international networks for effective law enforcement eg: recently conceived *SOUTH ASIAN WILD
LIFE ENFORCEMENT NETWORK* is a step in the right direction.
5) sensitisation of judges , lawyers, NGOs, pollution control boards, senior officials, legislators about emerging threats
of environmental crimes.
6) providing legal aid to victims of environmental crimes and eco restoration at the cost of polluters at national and
international levels.
QF9) Define eco - tourism.what are the essential ingredients of a sustainable tourism . Mention the benefits of eco
tourism and add few successful case studies in Indian context.
A)Ecotourism is defined as responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the wellbeing of local people.
Following are considered as the essential ingredients of a sustainable tourism:
a)a sustainable tourism always keeps ecological considerations in mind alongside a deep concern for environment.
B)a sustainable tourism should ensure judicious resources utilisation.
C) sustainable tourism has minimal pressure on fragile ecosystem along with minimal waste generation and
environmental pollution.
D)It should ensure that any exotic plants, animals, pests are not introduced into pristine forest ecosystems.
E)it respects ecosystems and its constituents, a simple practice of not screaming and frightening at the sight of wild
animals shows our adherence to ideas of sustainable tourism
F)it should drive home the message of environmental responsibility and spread environmental awareness.
G)it respects indigenous peoples, their cultures and their sustenance. *Following are the benefits of ecotourism*:
a)it generates livelihood and revenue to locals, forest dwellers and can bring down their dependency on forest
products.
b)will motivate indigenous peoples for the cause of environmental conservation because now they have an incentive in
the form of monetary benefits to save environment.
c)it can motivate every individual visiting Forest as a future *ambassador* of conservation efforts .
d)it will provide recognition and market to forest products , tribal art forms thus generating livelihood. e) increased
foot falls of tourists has a potential to keep *environmental crimes* in check. For example a brilliant example of
ecotourism in India is *pericardial national park*, where local communities got substantial employment opportunities,
local communities take people for forest trails to generate environmental awareness, a programme to take visitors to
night patrol along with them to check smuggling activities, a trial along the borders of the national park to create
awareness on environmental damage ,along with a visit to tribal market , etc is serving multiple purposes.
QF10) Renewable energy sector has the potential to contribute substantially to "make in India " an ambitious
programme of government of India. What measures should be taken to bring in greater synergies between two . What
are the benefits that might accrue in this process of bringing convergence between both.
A) Renewable energy production target for the year 2022 was announced by finance minister as *175Gw*, with
current production capacity being only *4O GW*it requires substantial upgradation of capacities in Various aspects
which has a potential to create synergies with other ambitious projects of government of India like *make in India,
skill India, start up India*.
Following measures are required to bring in synergies between Renewable energy and make in India:

a) Renewable energy production requires huge skilling of youth , for manufacturing, installation, maintenance
requirements all these require substantial numbers of people who require skilling, thus creating synergies.
2) substantial investment in research and development projects with potential of new technology development is
required to boost indigenous capabilities .
3) substantial investments should be made in transmission and distribution networks both in their manufacturing,
maintenance, where possibility of creating convergence is high .
4)improving exports in Renewable energy sector and measure to boost it creates a win win situation for both
programmes.
5) technology transfer by evolving partnerships with international research organisations by collaborative approach
can enhance employment opportunities for skilled youth.
6) there is a need to consider designing of new curriculum to produce a generation of students pursuing studies and
research on Renewable energy sources in renowned universities.
7) efforts can be taken to attract existing market leaders in conventional energy with deep pockets by convincing them
that future lies in Renewables.
8)small scale businesses and social entrepreneurs should be provided an ecosystem where they can flourish alongside
big players by innovative synergies with start up India campaign.
Following are the benefits of bringing convergence:
A) it is estimated that solar generation alone has the potential to generate 10 lakh jobs , so large scale employment
opportunities are a possibility.
B)this synergy will take us few steps closer in our efforts to realise our *intended nationally determined contributions*
and boost the image of the country .
C)it will help India evolve as a pioneer in area of Renewable energy research, production, and technology transfer
domains.
D)it will enhance the demand for skill upgradation substantially.
E)it will have its impact on rural poverty, rural economy, and change the rural energy landscape for ever.
F)it can benefit small scale industries who wish to relocate to rural areas .
Thus all our efforts should be focused in bringing synergies between Various programmes of government to avoid
duplication and multiply expected outcomes.
QF11)it is impossible to realise the vision of "sabka saath sabka vikas" without our country adopting a universal health
coverage. Identify the constraints in implementing universal health coverage. Suggest a way forward for its adoption.
A) Universal health coverage (UHC) means that all people receive the health services they need without suffering
financial hardship when paying for them. The full spectrum of essential, quality health services should be covered
including health promotion, prevention and treatment, rehabilitation and palliative care.
Following are the constraints in implementation of universal health coverage:
a)first and foremost inadequate investment in health sector. For instance government of India spends only 1.3% of its
GDP on health which is quite low when compared to many of the developing economies also.
B) Existing infrastructure in public health facilities is inadequate to cater to the growing demands of the population.
C)focus is largely on curative aspects ignoring health promotion and health prevention activities which are essential in
realising vision of universal health care.
D) Health insurance industry in India is in its burgeoning phase, and lack of risk proofing culture among general
public.
E) Existing health policies and programmes like *rashtriya swasthya bhima YOJANA*, due to their faulty designs are
serving the interests of corporates rather than realising the vision of bringing down out of pocket expenses of common
man.
F) there exists huge differences among states with respect to their importance given to health issues
Way forward:

A) investments in health sector by both central and state governments should grow.
B)A robust well functioning, transparent health insurance industry is the need of the hour.
C) innovative models like those implemented in New Delhi I.e *mohalla clinic*can be emulated nation wide.
D) *national health mission* should thoroughly adress the needs for health promotion and health prevention
activities.
E) wherever required synergies between corporates, NGOs, trust hospitals should be conceived . Thus it is only when
substantial out of pocket expenditures of poor households which is pushing them into poverty would come down we
can realise the vision of *"sabka saath sabka vikaas."*
QF12) Ebola virus epidemic caused substantial numbers of deaths in West African nations. In this context analyse the
preparedness of our country to health disasters. Suggest some suitable solutions to strengthen existing mechanisms.
A)India being a densely populated country , with poorly equipped public health systems, any health disaster like the
one occurred in West Africa like Ebola virus with high degree of fatality and unavailability of vaccination and
treatment can take a heavy toll on the country and wreak havoc. *When it comes to analysing India's preparedness to
such health disasters* experts opine that
a)our readiness and awareness is not enough.
B)we lack proper *screening machinery like thermal scanners and virus detection equipment at airports and seaports.*
C)we have very limited number of *detection centres* for instance for Ebola virus detection we have only two one at
*national institute of virology pune, and other at national centre for disease control, New Delhi.*
D)severe lack of public awareness is another deficiency.
E)our abilities to monitor all entry points is compromised by lack of adequate financial allocations.
F)also often there is a delay in issue of *advisories to all stakeholders*, like government health departments, public
hospitals, private hospitals. Eg: in recent Ebola virus threat there was a delay in issue of advisories.
Following measures should be taken to strengthen existing mechanisms:
a) to prevent entry of infectious diseases strict screening, quarantine, monitoring for entire incubation period Should
be made mandatory.
B)timely issuance of advisories to ensure preparedness among all stakeholders.
C) investments in spreading awareness and Behavioural change communication which is extremely important by
involving main stream media, social media, NGOs and front line functionaries like Asha's and Anm's .
D) health workers should be trained and be equipped with protective gears to deal with all eventualities without
themselves falling prey to outbreaks.
E)All hospitals both public and private should take measures to have an isolation wards to prevent spread in hospitals.
F)in cases of diseases for which vaccination and medicines are available they should be adequately stocked.
G) skill of *contact tracing* should be imparted to health personnel to enable early detection and minimise casualties.
Q13) you are a district collector of south odisha district and Indian meteorological has issued warning about
impending cyclone to stuck the coastal lands in 3days. What suitable measures would you take to minimise human
casualties to zero and damage to property at minimal levels.
1.Establish *control rooms* in the district offices and ensure that they function round the clock.
2.officers on leave shall be called back to duty.
3.ODRAF and *NDRF* forces as well as fire services shall be deployed in advance to the areas likely to be affected by
cyclone and associated floods.
4.As a collector I must immediately prepare and keep the evacuation plan ready, giving highest priority to most
vulnerable villages.
5.Special care must be taken to shift the old, infirm, physically challenged, women and children to safer places and
cyclone shelters much before the occurrence of disaster.

6.As flood is always associated with cyclone necessary boat arrangements must be made in advance to take up rescue
and relief operations.
7.The water level of dams and Minor irrigation systems must be carefully monitored.
8.Stocking of required medicines and arrangements for deployment of mobile medical teams has to be ensured.
9.Steps should be taken for immediate restoration of road communication for movement of relief materials to the
affected areas.
10.All fishermen in the sea may be advised to immediately come back to shore.
11.Steps must be taken to disseminate correct information about the upcoming cyclone among the people with the
advice not to panic.
12.Finalise the response plan and alert the field officers to function round the clock and strive for Zero casualty.
Q14) communal riots which are man made disasters are on the raise in various parts of the country. What measures
would you take in the immediate after math of a communal event. Add a note on long term initiatives required to
prevent future incidents.
A) India being a land of diverse communities , religions, castes , communal incidents are not uncommon and in recent
times communal violence is escalating in Various parts of the country.
Following measures should be taken in immediate context after an incident:
a)rapid mobilisation of specialised forces like *rapid action force* to the place.
B)measures to give immediate cover to both residential localities and business establishments of victim communities
to prevent any further loss of life and damage to property.
C) imposition of curfew simultaneously. D)quick monitoring and prohibition of any communally instigating content in
social media, if warranted temporarily blocking both wired and mobile network internet data in few geographical
locations.
E)taking into preventive custody of all trouble mongers and history sheeters.
F) instructing media to do *responsible reporting* and strict warning about penal provisions if not complied.
G)once violence gets subsided efforts for rescue initiated in *emergency response phase* should be complimented with
*rehabilitation* measures.
H)a *peace march* can be organised with all community leaders who enjoy popular support.
Following long term measures are warranted:
a) constitution of *peace committees or mohalla committees* in all wards , to promote trust among communities and
prevent such incidents in future.
B) a *vulnerability mapping* for future requirements identifying sensitive locations, trouble mongers, media with
vested interests to enable quick crackdown in future incidents. Some volunteers among citizens can be enrolled to give
early information to police even at the site of slightest trigger should be considered.
C) *uniform civil structures* as suggested by sachar committee in which people belonging to different religions work
together , reside together should be conceived.
D)as suggested by Abdul kaalam school curriculum should include *religious education,* to promote awareness about
different religions, to inculcate cultural intelligence, to understand the true message embedded in all religions, so that
young minds would not be misled by propaganda from unscrupulous elements.
E)a *cyber monitoring committee* compromising of volunteers from communities should be developed as modelled
by *Kerala police department,* to immediately counter any malicious campaigns with potential to breed communal
tendencies.
Q15)Do you think India is prepared for a Fukushima kind of nuclear disaster? What are the deficiencies in India's
nuclear safety standards. Add a note on measures to be taken to prevent all kinds of nuclear mishaps.
A)Fukushima nuclear disaster is a man made disaster with a natural trigger, when it comes to Indian preparedness for
nuclear mishaps except for *Narora atomic power station*all others are located in less seismic prone zones. Even
recently developed *kudankulam plant* can withstand an earth quake of magnitude *9*. Post Fukushima nuclear
disaster a safety evaluation done by *nuclear power corporation of India limited* established that Indian nuclear

power plants are well equipped to counter, escalation of mishap unlike Fukushima, with inbuilt provisions like
*cooling systems* and to handle complete power loss. Nevertheless Indian nuclear power plants are deficient in
certain safety norms like
a) Automatic reactor shutdown initiation after earth quake.
B) increased duration of passive power supply.
C) additional external sources of cooling water systems.
D)more skilled personnel to carry out emergency operating procedures.
E) absence of a transparent independent national level *nuclear safety regulatory body* to enforce international
standards.
Following steps should be taken to ramp up nuclear safety in India:
1) establish nuclear power plants in areas with low seismic activity.
2) immediately constitute an independent transparent national level nuclear safety authority.
3) trained ,skilled dedicated personnel with domain expertise and sound knowledge in emergency operating
procedures to handle all future incidents.
4)mock drills both in the plants and surrounding villages.
5) surprise inspection of the plants by regulatory bodies.
6)apart from this small institutions like universities , hospitals which handle nuclear material should be kept under
vigilance to prevent them from reaching rogue elements.
7) better and active participation in international organisations like nuclear security summit to gain a better know
how of handling nuclear material.
8)a comprehensive and robust *Liability law* to instill a sense of responsibility among suppliers , but should not deter
them in bringing investment.
Q16)There has been a raise in the incidence of FOREST FIRES all over the country. Identify the reasons for raise of
such incidents. Mention few measures to minimise the occurrence of such events in the future.
A)Forest fires are one of the important factors for degradation of forest ecosystem in India. 50% of all the forests in
India are prone to forest fires. Following are the reasons for occurrence of forest fires:
1)most common cause of forest fires in India are man made events . For example
a)villagers going to forests for firewood collection, grazing tend to cause accidental fires.
b)some times honey collectors burn twigs to drive away honey bees , when this goes uncontrolled it results in fires.
c) controlled firing by forest officials at times may go uncontrollable and cause fires, picnickers , tourists, campers at
times are also responsible.
d)apart from above man made factors in general *coniferous forests*of India which contain tree species like fir, spine,
birch, spruce, have needle shaped leaves, and can generate fire if they undergo natural friction. Eg: recent
*uttarakhand fires.*
e) conditions like draught, decrease of soil moisture either during pre monsoon period or prolonged dry spells induced
by climate change are all considered as risk factors for forest fires.
Keeping in mind their negative impact on economy and ecology they should be responded immediately to prevent
their spread:.
A) First and foremost aspect should be generating awareness among communities and especially forest dwellers, they
must be sensitised about its long term impacts and be made partners in early identification and also in fire fighting
efforts if necessary financial incentives can be thought of when they provide early information.
B) Then forest officials must be specially trained , this should be complimented with modern fire fighting technology,
advanced fire detection systems like smoke sensors, building forest fire watch towers, with immediate access to air
operation wings.

C)measures like developing *forest lines*, *forest tracks*, *counter fires* and controlled burning in the presence of
fire watchers can be adopted.
D)there should be a *national action plan* to tackle forest fires with the flexibility to adopt to regional requirements
and to coordinate different agencies of government. A *National institute of forest fires management* is proposed to
provide expertise to personnel, conduct scientific research. Above measures can save invaluable forests of India from
deterioration.
Q17)what are sustainable habitats. What should be the essential components of a sustainable habitats? Add a note on
relevance of the GRIHA rating tools in developing sustainable habitats.
A)A *Sustainable habitat* is an ecosystem that produces food and shelter for people and other organisms,without
resource depletion and in such a way that no external waste is produced. Such a sustainable habitat may evolve
naturally or be produced under the influence of man which typically involve some form of green building or
environmental planning.
Essential Components of sustainable habitat:
1.use of eco friendly fuels such as compressed natural gas, LPG etc.
2. Use of water harvesting methods , solar panels, minimal tapping of underground water, use of wind mills for energy
production etc.
3.use the waste generated in productive ways such as bio gas,compost manure etc.
4.Reduce, reuse , recycle,and reinvent is the basic philosophy of sustainable habitat.
*Griha rating tool:*
Green rating for integrated habitat assessment (Gruhapraves) was conceived by TERI and developed by *Ministry of
new and renewable energy* is a national ratings system for green INDIA.
Relevance of griha.
1.Griha evaluates the environmental performance of a building , holistically over its entire life cycle there by providing
definitive standard for what constitutes green building.
2.It helps in achieving the goals of *National mission on sustainable habitat.*
3.It generates awareness regarding green buildings and energy efficient technologies.
4.It creates competitive spirit among various institutions to go for griha rating and improve existing rating.
5.It helps in reducing carbon footprint of the country. Thus complying with Griha rating systems and encouraging
sustainable habitats development we can minimise the *ecological footprint* of humans.
Q18)Define sustainable agriculture. What are the reasons for calling organic farming a sustainable form of agriculture.
What are the factors preventing it's wide scale adoption in Indian context. Add a note on the recent measures taken by
government of India to promote organic farming in the country.
A) *sustainable agriculture* is the production of food, fibre, or other plant or animal products using farming
techniques that protect the environment, public health, human communities, and animal welfare.
Why is Organic farming sustainable:
organic agriculture can be defined as an integrated farming system that strives for sustainability, the enhancements of
soil fertility and biological diversity whilst, with rare exceptions, prohibiting synthetic pesticides, antibiotics, synthetic
fertilisers, genetically modified organisms, and growth hormones.
Factors preventing adoption of organic farming:
a)lack of organic inputs at affordable costs.
b)fear of losing productivity in the transition phase.
c)lack of demand from domestic consumers both because of inadequate purchasing power and lack of awareness of its
benefits.
d)till recently emphasis is on export orientation at the expense of domestic production.
recent *measures taken to promote organ farming:

A)paramparaghat Krishi vikaas Yojana: to promote organic farming in a cluster approach.

B) government expressed interest to develop entire north east India as organic farming zone.
C) establishment of laboratories and testing facilities to ascertain organic status of produce.
D) promoting international collaborations with reputed Environmental NGOs to promote organic farming.
E)National Horticulture Mission (NHM) F) Horticulture Mission for North East and Himalyan States (HMNEH).
G)Network Project on Organic Farming of Indian Council Agricultural Research (ICAR).
These are the measures taken to promote organic farming.
Q19)Delhi government's odd even formula scheme has received wide publicity all over India as a bold and innovative
scheme to adress the problems of urban air pollution. Critically examine various aspects of this initiative . Suggest
some more innovative solutions to decongest urban traffic and bring down urban air pollution .
A)Delhi governments odd even formula scheme , a car rationing scheme received mixed responses from all quarters .
Nevertheless it has shown following benefits :
a)toxic pollutants levels came down in the city though not significantly, this claim has been corroborated by both
environmental pollution control authority and centre for science and environment.
B)it lead to decongestion of traffic decreasing commute times, which brought convenience to many travellers.
C)large scale compliance by public suggests that people are open for experimentation , when they believe that Schemes
have good intentions, this public attitude is very important for emerging nations. People made arrangements for
carpooling on their own proves the point.
4) similar demands coming from people of Mumbai cities, and few universities promising to spread environmental
awareness by mentioning benefits of above innovative scheme, proves the point that this scheme expanded the debate
on environmental protection.
Negative aspects of the scheme:
A) few people criticised that adequate ground work has not been done before it's implementation, and inadequate
public transport system exacerbated the vows of commuters causing inconvenience.
B)it is said that exemptions given to 2 wheelers, women , VIP vehicles, did hurt the efficiency of this scheme.
Some solutions to adress the problem of urban congestion:
a)public transport investment need to establish well functioning urban transport systems like metro rail, mono rail,
Ajit Shkl nd bus rapid transit system.
B)Improving urban road design: widening of roads wherever possible, building alternate roads, should be considered.
C) *Behavioural change communication*: people should be educated about perils of urban transport induced pollution
and motivated to use public transport system and other environment friendly commuting.
E) *Dedicated investments on developing bicycle tracks*.
F) *pedestrians :* pedestrians Should be given utmost importance , for instance building of barricaded pathways,
skywalks, road over bridges.
G) *last mile connectivity:* should be given utmost priority , because its absence is an important reason discouraging
people to take up urban transport.
H) *intelligent transport system:* information and communication technology should be used as much as possible for
efficient transport management. Eg: *B-TRAC project* of Bangalore proved to be successful.
I) *parking:* parking should never be ignored because it is one of the important irritant by innovative aspects like
a)multi storey parking. B)user charges for parking.
Q20)what is composting? What are the advantages of using compost in farm lands?add a note on recent central
governments policy on city compost management.
A) Composting is nature's process of recycling decomposed organic materials into a rich soil known as compost.
Anything that was once living will decompose. Basically, backyard composting is an acceleration of the same process

nature uses. By composting your organic waste you are returning nutrients back into the soil in order for the cycle of
life to continue. Finished compost looks like soildark brown, crumbly and smells like a forest floor.
*Benefits of compost:*
a)compost contains macro and micronutrients often absent in synthetic fertilizers.
b)Compost releases nutrients slowly over months or years, unlike synthetic fertilisers.
C)Compost enriched soil retains fertilisers better.
D)Less fertiliser runs off to pollute waterways.
E)Compost buffers the soil, neutralising both acid & alkaline soils, bringing pH levels to the optimum range for
nutrient availability to plants.
F)Compost helps bind clusters of soil particles, called aggregates, which provide good soil structure. Such soil is full of
tiny air channels & pores that hold air, moisture and nutrients.
G)Compost helps sandy soil retain water and nutrients. H)Compost alters soil structure, making it less likely to erode,
and prevents soil spattering on plantsspreading disease.
I)Compost can hold nutrients tight enough to prevent them from washing out, but loosely enough so plants can take
them up as needed.
J)Compost brings and feeds diverse life in the soil. These bacteria, fungi, insects, worms and more support healthy
plant growth.
K)Compost bacteria break down organics into plant available nutrients. Some bacteria convert nitrogen from the air
into a plant available nutrients.
*Key features of Policy For increasing production and consumption of City Compost are:*
a) provision for Market development assistance of Rs. 1500 per tonne of city compost has been added. Farmers will be
benefitted from lower MRP of city compost as result of Market development assistance.
B)To ensure that environment friendly quality city compost, eco-Mark standard has been made mandatory.
C)Fertilizer companies will co-market City Compost along with chemical fertilizers. For promoting the use of
compost, these companies will adopt villages.
D)It will be mandatory for Public Sector undertakings and Government Departments to use City Compost for purpose
of their horticulture.
E)Concerned Ministries will undertake campaigns to create awareness among farmers about benefits of city compost
and its uses.
F) Agriculture Universities and other departments will also contribute in demonstration activities related to use of City