Cigoh

MGP 2024
Test Code : 713105
Solution
Instruction to Students
Answers provided in this booklet exceed the word limit so as to also act as source of
good notes on the topic.
Candidates must focus on the keywords mentioned in the answers and build
answers around them. Elaborate answers are given with the purpose that candidates
understand the topic better.
We have also adopted a grey box approach to provide context wherever necessary,
which is not to be considered a part of the answer.
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Q.1) Comment on the key initiatives outlined in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity
Framework, with special reference to the '30X30’ target.
Approach: Introduce the answer by briefly outlining about Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity
Framework. In the body, briefly describe the objectives through a neat sketch. In the next part, analyse
the key initiatives started in the GBF and highlighting about 30X30 target. In the last part, list out the
key constraints faced by the GBF. Conclude the answer by highlighting the significance of GBF in
achieving sustainable development.
The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), adopted in 15th COP to the UN
Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), is a global initiative that aims to halt and reverse
biodiversity loss by 2030; restore ecosystems and protect indigenous rights. Key initiatives outlined
in the GBF can be seen as:
1. 30 X 30 target:
a) Countries have agreed to conserve and restore 30% of terrestrial and aquatic
ecosystems, increasing it from 17% of terrestrial and 10% of marine areas protected,
presently.
b) It would result in creation of network of biosphere reserves, national parks, wildlife
sanctuaries, marine protected areas, etc. which acts as a core region of conservation.
2. The GBF includes 23 targets for 2030 that are aligned with the long-term goals. They cover
a wide range of issues such as reducing pollution, sharing benefits etc.
3. GBF Fund is established under GEF to mobilise $200 billion per year from both public and
private sources. This creates efficient channel to mobilise fund and support biodiversity
projects.
4. Corporate accounting and reporting related to biodiversity issues creates a sense of
responsibility, transparency and leads to accountability.
5. Countries are committed to identify and eliminate activities that threaten biodiversity. E.g.,
phasing out subsidies, reducing pesticide usage $500 billion annually.
6. National action plans on lines of UNFCCC to create competition among nations in order to
fast track and effectively implement the framework.
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However, the framework suffers from certain key challenges:

1. No legal binding: Lack of penal provision disincentivise fast tracking the interventions under
National Biodiversity Plans.
2. Lack of deadline: As per environmentalists, absence of clear deadlines may render the
implementation of plans ineffective.
3. Funding constraints: 200 billion USD mobilisation every year amidst global slowdown is a
herculean task to achieve for GEF, already under financial constraints.
4. Self-reporting by corporates may result in greenwashing of reports, limiting the utility of the
exercise.
5. As per experts, limited efforts were made to allay the concerns of all the stakeholders. E.g.,
opposition by Republic of Congo was overlooked.
The GBF is a key step in right direction to arrest the rapid decline of biodiversity. It is also crucial in
achieving some of the important SDGs like SDG 13 (Climate action), SDG 14 (Life below water), and
SDG 15 (Life on land). (438 words)
Q.2) How will you explain that the anthropogenic factors enhance the intensity, increase the
frequency, and amplify the impacts of natural disasters? Substantiate your answers with suitable
examples.
Approach: Introduce the answer by defining natural disasters. In the body of the answer, list the ways in
which anthropogenic factors enhance the impacts of natural disasters. In the next part, list suggestions
to mitigate natural disasters. Conclude with the need to integrate disaster risk reduction approach with
development.
Natural disasters are extreme, sudden events caused by environmental factors such as storms, floods,
droughts, fires, and heatwaves. Although natural hazard arises due to various interlinked natural
causes, the anthropogenic factors enhance the intensity, frequency and impacts of natural disasters
in the following ways:
1. Population pressure
a) Increased demand of land for settlement and cultivation; high population density is
susceptible to pandemics.
b) Encroachment over flood plains, loss of wetlands and mangroves; erodes natural
defence against disasters and hazards.
2. Economy vs Ecology: The precedence to economic development. E.g., urban sprawls destroy
natural drainage channels paving way for urban floods.
3. Ignorance and lack of awareness of the people is adding fuel to the fire. E.g., choked drainage
due to plastics aggravating urban flooding; campfires leading to wild fires.
4. Haphazard development ignoring hazard zonation and violation of National Building Code
2016 increases exposure to hazards. E.g., Joshimath land subsidence.
5. Lack of disaster management capabilities:
a) Accentuate the impacts of disaster. E.g., 10,000 deaths in BOB-06 (1999) vs zero
deaths in Biparjoy (2023); earthquake management in Japan vs Nepal.
b) Lack of training to government functionaries in disaster preventive strategies, SOPs,
crowd management techniques etc. E.g., 14 sunstroke deaths at Kharghar event (April
2023)
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Following interventions can help in mitigating the impacts of anthropogenic factors:

1. Balanced development through eco-friendly policies and eco-sensitive models. E.g., Eco-
tourism, rejuvenation of mangroves and wetlands to tackle urban floods.
2. Resilience against disaster risks: Strengthen structural measures and infrastructure. E.g.,
maintenance of embankments, barrages, and dams to regulate water flow.
3. International cooperation: Learning from global best practices and pooling of global
capacities. E.g., CDRI initiatives, Israel’s drought management, sponge cities of China.
4. Governance: Regulation of developmental activities through strict and verifiable enforcement
of norms and regulations. E.g., disaster zonation; CRZ framework for coastal development;
NDMA guidelines.
5. Capacity Building:
a) Localized planning taking into consideration the ecologically fragile nature of the
region and involving the local communities.
b) Investing in training and capacity building of local communities to prevent and
manage risks effectively.
6. Forecasting: Better forecasting by incorporation of advanced technology to enable early
warning, evacuation, and preparedness. E.g., Tsunami– ITEWS; Cyclone prediction – (GEFS)
Global Ensemble Forecast System.
Disaster risk management must mainstream disaster risk reduction (DRR) strategies, as adopted by
Sendai framework, by integrating disaster management strategies into developmental planning. (401
words)
Q.3) What are the factors of vulnerability for the annual mayhem of floods in Bihar? Suggest a
sustainable strategy for flood risk management.
Approach: Introduce the answer by highlighting the vulnerability of Bihar to floods. In the body, explain
the natural factors that lead to the vulnerability for the annual mayhem of floods in Bihar. In the next
part suggest a sustainable strategy framework for the state to deal with floods. Conclude the answer by
highlighting the multipronged approach needed for Flood risk management.
Flood is a natural phenomenon associated with rivers. It occurs when water flow exceeds the river’s
channel capacity, breaching the natural levees, entering the floodplains. According to Bihar State
Disaster Management Authority, 73.63% of North Bihar is considered to be flood prone.
Factors of vulnerability for the annual mayhem of floods in Bihar:

1. Natural factors:
a) Rivers: Bihar has vast network of rivers and tributaries which are youthful in the
upper reaches and carry huge volume of water. E.g., Ganges, Gandak, Baghmati,
Mahanandha etc.
b) Monsoon: The state lies closer to the foothills of Himalayas which act as an
orographic barrier to monsoonal winds leading to heavy downpours in catchment
areas. E.g., half of the world’s 8km plus peaks lies in Kosi’s catchment area.
c) The Himalayas is composed of younger rocks which are more prone to erosion and
results in formation of high loads of sediments.
d) The relatively flat topography of Bihar cannot provide sufficient slope for the rivers
which forces them to suddenly reduce their speed and the river spreads
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laterally. Further, highly meandering river change course annually, resulting in

flooding. E.g., Kosi river shifted 100 km leftward in the past 200 years.
2. Anthropogenic factors:
a) Deforestation: The conversion of forests to agricultural and pastoral land resulted in
loss of buffering effect of the forests. E.g., Nearly 85% of the state’s land is under
cultivation.
b) Encroachment: Due to increasing population, people started occupying the flood
plain for settlement and agriculture, leading to increased vulnerability to floods.
c) River development:
I. Apart from natural siltation, construction of dams and reservoirs resulted in
increased siltation. E.g., Allegations that Farakka barrage results in siltation
and leading to flood.
II. Construction of embankments, although provides temporary relief, however
increases the capacity of channel to hold water and accentuates the
vulnerability to flood.
d) Climate change: The accelerated pace of global warming has resulted in
unprecedented increase in frequency and intensity of Extreme Rainfall Events,
increasing the water flow in rivers.
Sustainable strategy for flood risk management can be ensured through following measures:
1. Structural measures:
a) Detention Basins: Revival and improvements of chaurs or detention basins.
b) Embankments: Strengthening, regular maintenance and repair of these
embankments must be done regularly.
c) Channel Improvement practices like dredging and desiltation increase the channel
capacity.
2. Functional measures:
a) Strengthening the framework of Bihar’s SDMA through increased funds and
functionaries to mitigate disasters.
b) Reviving inland waterways could lead to better maintenance of canals through
economical ways of maintaining river basins. E.g., regular desilting; deeper channels.
3. Watershed approach:
a) Reviving the natural retention capacity of the river basin. E.g., prevention of
excessive sand mining; enhancing ground water levels.
b) Restricting illegal encroachment on floodplains by delimitating flood hazard zone.
c) Afforestation measures to ensure presence of natural barriers against flood hazards.
d) International cooperation with Nepal to share details on hydro-metrological data.
Flood risk management of Bihar warrants multipronged approach through convergence of various
stake holders such as Centre, neighbouring states, Nepal and community participation to achieve
sustainable solutions. (472 words)
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Q.4) Taking the Himalayan region as a case, explore and examine the provisions and concerns with
regard to the Forest Conservation (Amendment) Act, 2023.
Approach: Introduce the answer by mentioning the basic objective of the new Act. In the body of the
answer, discuss the various provisions and concerns associated with the Act. Conclude with the need to
bring on board all the stakeholders for inclusive implementation.
The forest conservation (amendment) Act 2023 amends the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, which
was enacted to regulate the diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes. The main objective of
the new Act is to redefine what a ‘forest’ means in the Indian law.
Key provisions of the forest conservations (amendment) Act 2023 are as follows:
1. Land to be regulated under the Act:
a) Land notified as a forest under the Indian Forest Act, 1927 or under any other law.
b) Land notified as a forest on or after October 25, 1980 in a government record.
2. Land exempted from regulation:
a) Land situated within 100 km from international borders for construction of a
strategic linear projects.
b) Land up to 10 hectares, for constructing security-related infrastructure
c) Land to be used for constructing defence related projects, camps for paramilitary
forces, or public utility projects up to 5 hectares in a left-wing extremism affected
area
d) The Bill also states that the Act will not apply to land changed from forest use to non-
forest use on or before December 12, 1996
3. Assignment of forest land: Under the original Act, a state government required prior approval
of the central government to assign forest land to private entity; the new Act extends the
requirement to private as well as public entities.
4. Activities allowed on the forest land: Certain non-forest purposes allowed such as zoos and
safaris, ecotourism facilities, silvicultural operations, surveys with prior approval of the central
government.
Various concerns associated with the Bill:

1. Lands with forest-like
Increased
characteristics stand excluded if Blanket exemption
vulnerability to
found outside the government in North-East
natural hazards
records; It goes against the SC
judgement in TN Godavarman
case, 1996 which privileged Adverse impacts on Ambiguity on the
dictionary meaning of forests, livelihoods of hill definition of
providing a broader definition. dwelling tribes. strategic projects
2. Exemptions given near the

Fig: Concerns for Himalayan Region
border areas will have negative
impacts on the already fragile ecology in these areas. E.g., Joshimath land subsidence and the
Char Dham project.
3. Allowing construction of infrastructure like zoos, safaris, ecotourism facilities etc. may
promote influx of commercial activities within the forests; restricts wildlife habitat; could
increase man-animal conflict. E.g., snow leopard, clouded leopard etc.
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4. Exclusion of certain categories of land may affect tribal rights, especially the Particularly
Vulenrable Tribal Groups’ (PVTGs) under FRA. E.g., Raji and Buksa tribes.
5. 100-km exemption clause gives a blank clearance for the entire northeast region. Can
exacerbate the increasing trend of reducing forest cover in North-east. Conflict with sixth
schedule provisions.
It is important for the government to strike a balance between the intended objectives of the
amendments and interests of various stakeholders for inclusive implementation of the Act. (436
words)
Q.5) ‘Vampiric overconsumption’ of fresh water resources is threatening the global water security.
Discuss the reasons for crisis of availability and access to freshwater resources. Give two examples
of traditional water harvesting systems that can help improve contemporary water management
strategies.
Approach: Introduce the answer by highlighting recent reports pointing towards threat to global water
security. In the body of answer, discuss the reasons for crisis of availability and access to freshwater
resources. Then, give two examples of traditional water harvesting systems that can help improve
contemporary water management strategies. Conclude the answer by emphasizing on the need to have
sustainable vision towards managing water resources.
IPCC 6th Assessment Report points towards a threat to global water security due to ‘vampiric
overconsumption’. On a similar line, NITI Aayog’s Composite Water Management Index has also
highlighted the rising water stress in India. The reasons for crisis of availability and access to
freshwater resources:
1. Anthropogenic factors:
a) Population growth: Increased water demand for agriculture, industries, and
domestic purposes. Also, distorted cropping pattern incentivized by MSP aggravate
the problem.
b) Fresh water bodies like lakes, urban wetlands, natural streams, etc., are disappearing
due to unauthorized construction. E.g., recent water crisis in Shimla.
c) Lack of fresh water storage system and poor water productivity have made cities the
ecological black hole of environment. E.g., poor adoption of rain water harvesting
techniques.
d) Water Pollution: Untreated industrial effluents, sewage; certain religious practices,
etc. leads to water contamination. This limits access to safe and clean water. E.g.,
pollution in Ganga and Yamuna.
e) Political reasons:
i. Weaponization of water resources: Countries upstream on the river can
control the flow of water as a way of asymmetric warfare against downstream
countries. E.g., China’s refusal to share hydrological data on Brahmaputra
during Doklam stand-off.
ii. Lack of cooperation among stakeholders over allocation of water resources
and settlement of disputes limits access. E.g., Teesta River water dispute;
Satluj-Yamuna Link Canal issue; Cauvery water dispute between Karnataka
and Tamil Nadu etc.
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iii. Lack of Legal frameworks is a barrier in fair allocation of water resources. E.g.,
India and China do not have a water treaty.
2. Natural factors:
a) Topography of a region influences the flow and distribution of freshwater resources.
It is also difficult to develop infrastructure to improve water access in remote or
inaccessible areas such as mountainous regions.
b) Natural disasters: Floods and storm surges can disrupt water availability through
increased salinity of riverine and groundwater due to increased turbidity and ingress
of sea water.
c) Climate change: Reduced precipitation, erratic weather patterns, and increased
temperature can lead to scarcity of freshwater resources and exodus of climate
refugees.
Traditional water harvesting systems can help improve contemporary water management strategies
in following ways:
1. Oorani:
a) Ooranis in Tamilnadu are small ponds that collect water from rains and from
surrounding catchment areas.
b) This can be adopted at water stressed villages using funds from MGNREGS.
c) A similar initiative at Ralegan Siddhi village in Maharashtra has turned it from ‘water
scarce’ to ‘water surplus’.
2. Baoli:
a) Baolis exist in all shapes and sizes and are reservoirs built into the earth.
b) Step wells: Groundwater is pulled up from a circular well at the bottom and rainwater
is collected from above. E.g., Agrasen Ki Baoli; Rani ki Vaav.
Sustainable vision is key to balancing current needs and future demands, and accelerating march
towards achieving SDG 6. (445 words)
Q.6) What are the primary challenges faced in managing Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) in India?
Evaluate the role of Waste-to-Energy (WtE) plants in creating a more effective solid waste
management paradigm.
Approach: Introduce by defining municipal solid waste (MSW). In body, discuss various factors
responsible for poor MSW management in India. Mention potential of Waste to Energy incinerator
plants in ensuring efficient MSW management in India and various limitations associated with the
same. Conclude with need of local solutions and mentions some good MSW models in the country.
Municipal solid waste (MSW) refers to the waste generated by households and non-industrial
activities in urban areas. Although, not as hazardous as industrial waste, unscientific handling of MSW
undermines sustainable development, while harming human life and environment. India is estimated
to generates 62-million-ton MSW annually, of which only 11.9 MT is treated and 31 MT is dumped in
landfill sites.
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Fig: Handling of Municipal Solid Waste in India
Following factors are responsible for poor MSW management in India:

1. Waste-disposal Practices: Segregation of waste into organic, recyclable and hazardous
categories is not done at source. Resulting mixed waste is difficult to treat and is largely (~50%
MSW) dumped into landfills or left at dump-yards.
2. Financial resources: Municipalities lack enough financial resources for effective SW
treatment. Along with the issue of lack of financial devolution to municipalities by states,
Economic Survey (2017-18) had highlighted that municipalities are not collecting tax revenues
even to the available potential.
3. Corruption: Contractors dump waste at unauthorized sites instead of treating them to save
costs. Misappropriation of financial resources in municipalities due to nexus of contractors
and officials reduces available fund for waste management.
4. Poor Implementation of Rules: Despite rules in place for solid waste management, these are
not being adopted in practice. For example, most of the landfill sites are not designed as per
specifications mentioned in the Solid Waste Management Rules 2016.
5. Technological Capabilities: Municipalities do not use modern technology for solid waste
management. Even if technology is available, they are not skilled enough to operate it. For
example, many of the waste-to-energy plants in India, are lying under-utilized or remain
closed despite abundance of waste in urban areas.
Waste to Energy (WtE) incinerator plants use a waste treatment process that creates energy in the
form of electricity, heat or fuel from a waste source, by burning MSW which produces steam in a boiler
which is in turn used to generate electricity.
WtE incinerator plants offer an answer to problems of poor management of MSW in following ways:
1. WtE increase economic incentives for waste management through recovery of energy from
waste by converting it into steam and electricity.
2. Use of WtE, does away with methane emissions from landfills which has more than twice the
global warming potential of CO2.
3. WtE is useful in reducing the volume of waste for landfilling.
4. Closer location of WtE facilities to waste generating localities, simplifies collection and
transportation of waste. Complex transportation and far off location of landfill sites creates
problem of mounting heaps of waste in urban areas or on roads.
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Despite the proved benefits of WtE incineration plants, and their promising potential in solving India’s
MSW problem, its adoption is limited by:
1. Complex operations disincentivising the adoption of the process.
2. Costly technology creates entry barriers for new approaches. E.g., carbon capture and
storage.
3. Health hazards leading to opposition by locals.
4. Mixed nature of MSW in India, also limits its potential for conversion into energy due to low
calorific value.
The problem of poor management of MSW in India requires a mix of innovative approaches,
technological inputs and local solutions. Apart from WtE, Alleypey model of decentralized waste
management with residents segregating and treating waste at source, and alternative technologies
such as bio-methanation and bio-gasification can be explored, to make way for zero-waste cities.
(558 words)
Q.7) India’s path to achieve net zero emissions by 2070 is beset with multiple challenges. Identifying
these challenges, suggest measures to help India achieve the net-zero target.
Approach: Introduce the answer by defining net zero emission. In the body of the answer, first discuss
the challenges for India to achieve net zero emissions. Then suggest measures that can help India achieve
the net-zero target. Conclude by highlighting the need for joint efforts from government, industry and
citizens.
Net zero emission refers to an ideal state where the amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs) added into
the atmosphere is balanced by the amount of GHGs removed. In the 2021 Glasgow climate summit
(COP26), India committed itself to net zero emission target by 2070 as part of a 5-point action plan.
India’s path to achieve net zero emissions by 2070 is beset with multiple challenges:
1. Finance: Transition to a net-zero emissions economy requires substantial investments in
renewable energy infrastructure, carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies, and
energy-efficient systems. E.g., as per a study, India will need approximately $10 trillion to meet
its net zero emission targets.
2. Technological barriers: Most of available technologies are concentrated in few developed
nations. Divergences on IPR policies hinder technology transfer related to clean energy.
Issues of access will hinder solutions like green hydrogen, nuclear energy, FCEV. etc.
3. Supply chain disruptions of strategic goods needed for production of clean energy. E.g.,
during Covid-19 lithium’s supply was disrupted; skewed concentration of rare earth
minerals.
4. Consumerism is part and parcel of market economy; hurdle in path of circular economy. E.g.,
low life-cycle of electronic items, vehicle ownership vs public transport etc.
5. Climate cooperation:
a) Overlooking of historical responsibilities by developed countries for equitable
burden of climate action. E.g., the commitment to mobilise $100 billion to developing
countries remains a non-starter.
b) Obstructionist role of certain nations. E.g., China blocking India’s entry into Nuclear
Suppliers Group (NSG) which limits India’s access to nuclear fuel and reprocessing-
enrichment technology.
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6. Other challenges:
a) Transition to electric vehicles will disrupt India’s globally competitive automobile
sector and petrochemical industry.
b) Food security and income/ job security; main source of livelihood in India is
agriculture but it is also a significant contributor to GHG emission.
Following measures can help India achieve the net zero target:
1. Investing in research and innovation; promote the indigenous development of clean
technological solutions for decarbonization; incentivize private sector participation. E.g.,
India’s Clean Energy Research Initiative.
2. Accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, hydro power
through incentives for renewable energy projects. E.g., NAPCC, Green Hydrogen Mission, etc.
3. There is a need to shift towards scientific agricultural practices, in order to curb the high
level of emissions from farm sector. E.g., scientific treatment of stubble, Climate Smart
Agriculture, ZBNF, prudent use of fertilizers, etc.
4. Periodic energy audit of large corporations can help in rationalising their emission intensities.
E.g., energy audit of railways, energy PSUs, etc.
5. India needs to up-scale its capacity of domestic production of various intermediary goods for
clean energy production. E.g., solar photo-voltaic cells for leveraging the solar energy
potential.
6. Encouraging behavioral changes among individuals and businesses to promote responsible
consumption and production (SDG 12); adopting LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment). E.g.,
carpooling, switching off engine at red light, green buildings, using cloth/jute bags, etc.
India has embarked on an ambitious path to attain a net zero emission target by 2070. To achieve this
goal joint efforts are warranted from government, industry, and the people. Environment, Social, and
Governance (ESG) framework, Loss and Damage Fund are steps in right direction. (545 words)
Q.8) What are Biofuels and its types? Enumerate the challenges in biofuel adoption. To what
extent can the Global Biofuels Alliance help in addressing these challenges?
Approach: Introduce the answer by defining biofuels. In the next part of the answer describe briefly the
different types of biofuels. In the main body, enumerate the challenges faced in biofuel adoption in the
country. In the next part, analyse the significance of Global Biofuels Alliance in helping to overcome those
challenges. Conclude the answer by highlighting the key challenges that impede the GBA and the need for
addressing them.
Biofuels are hydrocarbons produced from organic or living matter in a short time period. Biofuels
are being envisioned as the future of sustainable energy generation.
Based on generations, the National policy on Biofuels, 2018 classify biofuels as:
1. Basic biofuels (1G biofuels): They are made from edible biomass. E.g., Sugar, corn, etc.
2. Advanced biofuels:
a) 2G biofuels: Sourced from variety of non-food feedstocks, mainly leftovers and waste
comprised of lignocellulosic biomass. E.g., Municipal waste, etc.
b) 3G biofuels: They are made from micro algae and other microbes. E.g., Biodiesel from
seaweed.
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c) 4G biofuels: It is an extension of 3G biofuels sourced from genetically engineered

micro algae resulting in higher yield. E.g., Green diesel
Challenges in biofuel adoption:

1. Zero sum game: Current biofuel production in India is centred on 1G biofuels that are of high
carbon content. Increasing GHG emissions from agriculture to decrease emission from
transport sector results in little net benefit.
2. Food security: Critics argue that diversification of food resources and farm feeds towards
bioethanol production raises food security concerns E.g., National Biofuel policy 2022
amendments allow diversion of food resources for goals like 20% ethanol blending by 2025-26.
3. Water security: As per Global Bioenergy Partnership (GBEP) report, one litre of ethanol
requires about 3000 litres of water which leads to negative externalities on environment. E.g.,
Ground water depletion.
4. Cost:
a) Flex fuel vehicles (FFVs): Higher levels of blending such as E85 require significant
modification. The adoption of FFVs is extremely low due to competition from EVs.
b) The prices of ethanol in India are higher compared to the U.S. and Brazil because of
the minimum support price system.
5. Infrastructure and Research: Lack of infrastructural capacity to process; prevailing
technological secrecy coupled with inadequate research and development impedes large
scale biofuel adoption. E.g., According to IEA biofuel production needs to triple by 2030 to
achieve net zero emission.
6. Acceptability: Biofuels as an alternative fuel has not gained wider popularity resulting in lack
of mainstreaming of biofuels. E.g., Biodiesel; biogas-based generators are not as popular as
conventional generators.
Significance of GBA for India to achieve carbon neutrality is as follows,

1. Technology and finance transfer: GBA serves as a platform for exchange of knowledge,
technologies and investment in biofuels. It will increase the pace of adoption of multiple
biofuels like CBG and bioethanol. E.g., USA and Brazil have 82 % market share.
2. Decarbonisation of transportation sector: Ethanol blending reduces emission of GHGs and
hazardous gases. It helps in greening of certain transport sectors which are difficult to
electrify in the near future E.g., aviation, shipping, etc.
3. Waste to Energy: 2G Biofuel technologies obtained under GBA can address waste
mismanagement led carbon emission. It can divert the waste towards energy production. E.g.,
Ghazipur landfills can be transformed to 2G energy plants.
4. Reducing GHG footprints: It can facilitate transition towards sustainable cropping and land
use pattern by adopting less GHG emitting fuel sources. E.g., 3G and 4G biofuels don’t require
cultivable land.
5. Energy diversity: GBA can help in achieving sustainable mix of renewables, crucial in
achieving “panchamrit” goals. It can save forex resources and facilitate investment in green
technologies. E.g., Green hydrogen
GBA needs to overcome the challenges of technological secrecy, accessing climate finance and
address environmental concerns to make biofuel cost effective, sustainable and acceptable fuel
alternative that aid India’s transition into a carbon neutral economy. (557 words)
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Q.9) What do you understand by Environment Impact Assessment (EIA)? Explain the various
loopholes in EIA process and suggest measures to make it more effective in achieving its objective.
Approach: Introduce the answer by defining EIA with help of a neat sketch and explain about its
significance. In the body of the answer firstly, describe in detail various loopholes in the EIA process. In
the next part of the answer suggest key measures to make the process more effective and achieve its
objective. Conclude the answer by stressing the need for more inclusive methods and processes for
achieving sustainable development.
EIA is a decision-making tool that examines both benefits and adverse consequences of a project vis-
a-vis the environment. It functions as a mandatory environmental clearance under the Environment
Protection Act (EPA) 1986.
EIA helps to identify probable adverse environmental effects of the proposed project and proposes
measures to mitigate them. It also predicts whether there will be significant ecological cost, even after
the mitigation is implemented.
Fig (a) EIA
Various loopholes in EIA process are as follows:

1. Public consultation, although mandatory, depends on the discretion of the expert committee.
E.g., in Majdoor Kisan Ekta Sangthan vs Union of India, SC declared the Environment
Clearance (EC) null and void due to lack of proper public hearing.
2. Delays: The review and monitoring mechanism of the EIA is not time bound, creating long
delays in clearance of projects. The delays are often argued as the reason to further dilute EIA
norms. E.g., Post-facto clearances upheld by SC in exceptional circumstances.
3. Frequent amendments: There is an increased tendency to exempt projects from prior
approval and clearances. In the last five years, around 110 changes have been introduced via
amendments. E.g., July 2022 amendment did away with EIA for Char Dham project, fish
handling ports. tollbooths etc.
4. Quality of Reports: Not available in local language; Lack of trained EIA professionals;
Consultancy agencies are not held accountable; leads to inadequate and irrelevant EIA
reports
Page 13 of 15
5. Federal challenges: Threshold values of project size are used to decide whether state or
Centre will be the reviewing authority. As a result, major projects face hurdles. E.g., delays in
Western Dedicated Freight Corridor project in Maharashtra due to lack of EC for earthwork.
6. Weak oversight mechanisms: The weak enforcement mechanism and conflict of interest
(executive influence) results in poor accountability.
Following measures can be taken to turn EIA into an effort for optimizing development with minimal
ecological cost:
1. EIA consultants should be accorded higher level of autonomy from vested interests,
government or private. It will ensure greater legitimacy to environmental clearances.
2. Early public consultation: EIA should have people participation right from the early stage of
projects. E.g., In Sweden, the applicant has to consult the public even before applying for a
new project.
3. Consultations with qualified pool of subject experts, environmentalist, anthropologists, civil
society organisation & NGOs be made mandatory. E.g., role of resolution professionals under
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code.
4. Technology leverage:
a) Using AI models, drones to predict the full impact of the project for better assessment
of benefits as well as ecological and social costs.
b) Transparency in the EIA process and the environmental impacts. E.g., PARIVESH
portal.
5. Reducing delays:
a) Improved coordination mechanism between different levels of government and
administration for faster decision making.
b) Creating dedicated courses and curriculum for skilling EIA professionals is needed
to increase the pace of project evaluations.
6. Increasing the coverage of EIA: Any projects which have substantial environmental impacts
must mandatorily go through the EIA process. E.g., fishing ports may violate marine eco-
sensitive zones.
EIA is an effective tool for achieving the objective of balancing the needs of development and ecology
and helps in achieving Sustainable development. A more proactive tool like SEIA (Socio-economic
Impact Assessment) could result in better optimization of development with minimal ecological cost.
(558 words)
Q.10) Throw light upon the disaster management framework of the country. Also, elaborate upon
various mechanisms to enhance international cooperation in mitigating disasters.
Approach: Introduce the answer by explaining the meaning of disaster management. In the body of
answer, first discuss the disaster framework of the country. Then list limitations of the framework.
Lastly, elaborate upon various mechanisms to enhance international cooperation in mitigating disasters.
Conclude by emphasizing on need to build socio-economic resilience of the community against disasters.
Disaster Management includes sum total of all activities, programmes and measures which can be
taken up before, during and after a disaster with the purpose to avoid a disaster, reduce its impact or
Page 14 of 15
recover from its losses. Disaster Management Act 2005 provides for the disaster management
framework of the country as discussed below:
1. National Disaster Management Authority headed by PM, State Disaster Management
Authority headed by CM and District Disaster
Management Authority headed by DM/DC.
2. It provides for constituting a National Disaster
Response Force (NDRF) for specialist response
during disasters.
3. It also calls for establishing National Institute
of Disaster Management for capacity
development.
4. The act mandates creation of funds for disaster
mitigation and response at various level.
5. A comprehensive national policy on disaster Fig. Disaster Management Cycle
management (2009) and a national disaster
management plan (2016) based on elements of Sendai framework and UN’s SDGs has been
prepared.
Despite such a well-structured legislation complemented by policies and institutions, coherent

response to recurring disaster has remained elusive due to the following limitations:
1. Reactive and piece-meal approach; focused more on immediate response (search and rescue,
food, and water etc.). Recovery, rehabilitation, preparedness, and mitigation are neglected.
2. Lack of streamlined mechanism of cooperation among the multiple institutions/bodies.
3. Top-down approach; important stakeholders are neglected. E.g., little role of PRIs/ULBs,
CSOs.
4. Lack of adequately trained man-force; old technology and equipment; poor awareness on
hazards, mock drills etc.
5. Private sector’s investment in disaster risk reduction is lacking. Many states have not created
state disaster response fund.
6. Poor enforcement of laws (like fire safety code); cause of repeated industrial and fire
disasters in urban areas. E.g., fire incident in coaching institute in Delhi.
There is need for international collaboration to devise effective framework and learn from global best
practices of disaster management.
Various mechanisms to enhance international cooperation in mitigating disasters are as follows:

1. United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction: It is the lead agency within the United
Nations system for the coordination of disaster risk reduction.
2. Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI):
a) Promotes the resilience of new and existing infrastructure systems to climate and
disaster risks.
b) Technical Support and Capacity-building by providing disaster response and
recovery support, standards and certification, etc.
c) Research and Knowledge Management through collaborative research, global flagship
reports, etc.
d) Advocacy and Partnerships by organizing global and regional events, dissemination of
knowledge products, etc.
Page 15 of 15
3. Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030:

a) It focuses on the adoption of measures in order to prevent the creation of new risk,
reduce existing risk and increase resilience.
b) It addresses the three dimensions of disaster risk: exposure to hazards, vulnerability
and capacity, and hazard’s characteristics.
4. Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR):
a) India is emerging as first responder in HADR at regional and global level. E.g.,
Operation Rahat in Yemen, Operation Dost in earthquake hit Turkey and Syria, etc.
b) HADR exercises to promote synergy, jointness and interoperability among relevant
stakeholders. E.g., Exercise Samanvay of India; Tiger triumph between India and USA,
etc.
c) Quad’s HADR partnership, SCO workshop on HADR, etc.
5. Infrastructure for Resilient Island States (IRIS): At COP26, it was launched to promote
disaster and climate resilience of infrastructure assets in SIDS (Small Island Developing
States).
An effective disaster management framework and global cooperation shall go a long way in building
socio-economic resilience against disasters. (565 words)

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However, the framework suffers from certain key challenges:

Following interventions can help in mitigating the impacts of anthropogenic factors:

Factors of vulnerability for the annual mayhem of floods in Bihar:

laterally. Further, highly meandering river change course annually, resulting in

Various concerns associated with the Bill:

2. Exemptions given near the

Fig: Handling of Municipal Solid Waste in India

Following factors are responsible for poor MSW management in India:

c) 4G biofuels: It is an extension of 3G biofuels sourced from genetically engineered

Challenges in biofuel adoption:

Significance of GBA for India to achieve carbon neutrality is as follows,

Fig (a) EIA

Various loopholes in EIA process are as follows:

Despite such a well-structured legislation complemented by policies and institutions, coherent

Various mechanisms to enhance international cooperation in mitigating disasters are as follows:

3. Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030:

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