TRUMP REVIVES TRAVEL BAN AGAINST 12 COUNTRIES
TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU
Recently, U.S. President Donald Trump reinstated a travel ban against nationals from 12 countries. The move came in response to a violent attack in Colorado allegedly by an Egyptian national, though Egypt itself was not on the list.
Features of the Travel Ban
- Complete ban on travel for nationals from Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen.
- A partial ban for seven other countries: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela, allowing some work visas.
Exemptions:
- Does not apply to athletes participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup or the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
- Diplomats from the affected countries are excluded from the ban.
Reason Cited:
- Trump linked the ban to the risk of terrorism and inadequate vetting procedures in the listed countries.
Reactions and Criticisms
- African Union Response: Stated that the ban could hurt cultural, educational, and economic relations.
- Country Responses: Chad expressed surprise and disappointment, citing its efforts to combat terrorism. Venezuela criticized the U.S. as an unsafe destination itself.
- Human Rights Groups: Amnesty International USA condemned the ban as discriminatory and harmful.
Legal and Political Aspects
- Possible Legal Challenges: The ban might face court cases similar to earlier bans during Trump’s first term.
- Country-Specific Justifications: For Afghanistan, Libya, Sudan, Somalia, and Yemen, Trump cited weak government institutions for proper vetting.
- Iran was included as a “state sponsor of terrorism,” according to the order.
Conclusion
The revival of this travel ban highlights ongoing debates over national security and human rights. While the stated aim is to protect the U.S. from terrorism, the measure has attracted criticism for its broad impact on people-to-people ties, education, and diplomacy, potentially straining relations with the affected nations.
DELIMITATION AND SOUTHERN STATES’ CONCERNS
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
The Union Home Ministry recently clarified that the ongoing delimitation exercise would address the concerns of southern States, amidst accusations of political motives in delaying the Census. Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister raised concerns that the population-based seat redistribution might reduce representation for southern States.
What is Delimitation?
- Delimitation refers to the process of redrawing boundaries of electoral constituencies to ensure fair representation.
- Purpose: Ensures each constituency has roughly equal population size, maintaining fair representation.
- In India, this process is guided by the Delimitation Commission, using Census data as a basis.
- The upcoming delimitation has triggered concerns, particularly from southern States, due to population differences compared to northern States.
Constitutional Basis:
- Article 82 of the Constitution provides for readjustment of Lok Sabha seats after each Census.
- The 42nd Amendment (1976) froze delimitation until after the 2001 Census.
- Reason: To encourage population control efforts by states — as part of Indira Gandhi’s push for family planning — without fear of losing representation.
- The freeze was further extended by the 84th Amendment (2002) to remain in place until after the first Census post-2026.
- The aim was to ensure that states with better population control measures were not penalized in terms of representation.
- Latest Freeze: Hence, the next delimitation will be based on the first Census post-2026.
- COVID-19 Impact: The 2021 Census was delayed due to the pandemic, pushing the process to 2027.
Concerns of Southern States
Population Factor:
- Southern States like Kerala and Tamil Nadu have achieved replacement-level fertility (around 2.1 children per woman or lower) through effective population control policies.
- For example, as per NFHS-5 (2019-21), Kerala’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) is 8, while Bihar’s is 3.0, showing stark differences.
Equity in Representation:
- Linking Lok Sabha seats strictly to population could penalize states that invested in health, education, and family welfare by reducing their seats.
- Tamil Nadu, with a population growth rate of only 6% (2011 Census), fears losing representation compared to Uttar Pradesh, which grew by 20%.
Fiscal Contribution vs Representation:
- Southern States, including Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, are major contributors to India’s GDP and tax revenues. For instance, in 2022-23, Tamil Nadu accounted for around 9% of national GST collections, yet may get fewer seats if population is the sole criterion.
Development Disparity:
- States like Tamil Nadu and Kerala consistently rank higher on the Human Development Index (HDI) compared to northern states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
- For example, Kerala tops the SDG India Index (NITI Aayog) with an HDI score above 78, while Bihar lags at 0.57, yet might gain more seats due to higher population.
Conclusion
Delimitation is a vital constitutional process to balance representation in Parliament. However, addressing regional concerns, especially of southern States, is key to ensuring that representation is fair and equitable in a diverse nation like India.
DIGITAL CENSUS 2027: FASTER AND MORE ACCURATE DATA COLLECTION
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
The Centre announced that the 2027 Census will use digital tools. This marks the first time India will adopt a fully digital approach for its population count, aiming to make real-time data accessible for policy decisions.
Features of the Digital Census
- Smartphone-Based Data Entry: Enumerators will use apps on smartphones to collect information from households. This will allow immediate transmission and processing of data, reducing delays.
- Use of CMMS Portal: The Census Management and Monitoring System (CMMS) will oversee key tasks like appointing field staff, tracking training schedules, and monitoring fieldwork in real time.
- Inclusion of Caste Data: For the first time since Independence, the Census will collect comprehensive caste data. Apps will be updated to include fields for this new data.
- Coverage and Workforce: According to a government report, around 30 lakh enumerators will cover approximately 136 crore people spread across 33 crore households. Each enumerator will cover about 800 people in one enumeration block.
- Advantages of the Digital Census: Timely Data for Policymaking: Real-time processing will help government departments get quick and accurate data to design and implement schemes.
What is Census?
- The Census is an official count of the population and a comprehensive record of key demographic, social, and economic information.
- It provides data on population size, distribution, sex ratio, literacy, housing, economic activities, migration, and more.
- It helps the government plan, monitor, and evaluate developmental programs and policies.
When did the Census start in India?
- Census operations in India date back to the Mauryan period.
- A more systematic approach began between 1865 and 1872 in British India.
- The first synchronous (organized and simultaneous) national census was conducted in 1881, and it has continued every ten years since then.
Why is the Census Important?
- Reliable Demographic Data: Provides crucial information on population characteristics, literacy, education, housing, urbanization, fertility, and socio-economic trends since 1872.
- Planning and Policies: Helps the government (both Central and State) and agencies to plan development programs, allocate resources, and design welfare schemes based on updated data.
- Constituency and Governance: Supports delimitation and reservation of Parliamentary, Assembly, and local body constituencies; reviews progress and guides future governance plans.
Challenges Highlighted
- Technical Issues: The earlier apps developed for the 2021 Census faced login problems and lacked an edit option, leading to data loss.
- Training Needs: Proper training of the large workforce is crucial to avoid errors during data collection.
CENSUS (2011)
- Population Size: India’s total population in 2011 was 08 crore (1.21 billion) — an increase of 17.7% from the 2001 figure of 102.87 crore.
- Sex Ratio: Improved slightly from 933 females per 1,000 males in 2001 to 943 females per 1,000 males in 2011 — showing modest progress on gender balance.
- Literacy Rate: The literacy rate rose from 8% in 2001 to 74.04% in 2011, with male literacy at 82.1% and female literacy at 65.5%.
- Decadal Growth Trends: The population growth rate declined from 5% (1991–2001) to 17.7% (2001–2011), reflecting a slowdown due to better family planning and awareness.
Urbanization: The urban population grew from 27.8% in 2001 to 31.16% in 2011, indicating a shift towards urban living and migration.
Conclusion
The 2027 Census represents a major step in modernizing India’s demographic data collection. If effectively implemented, it can provide policymakers with timely, reliable information essential for planning and governance.
A EUROCENTRIC RESET AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR INDIA
TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU
The UK’s recent agreement with the European Union (EU) signals a “reset” in relations, focusing on food standards, fisheries, defence, and border controls. This reset has significant implications for India’s trade, diplomacy, and diaspora, opening both opportunities and challenges.
Impact on India’s Trade
- Key Trade Partners: In FY2024, India’s exports to the EU were valued at $86 billion, while exports to the UK were around $12 billion.
- Regulatory Complexity: Post-Brexit, India had to comply with two separate sets of rules for exporting to the UK and EU, particularly in pharmaceuticals, textiles, seafood, and agriculture.
- Unified Standards: A harmonised UK-EU framework could simplify export processes, reduce duplication, and lower operational costs.
- Pharma Exports: India supplies over 25% of the UK’s generic medicines, and a single approval system would benefit exporters.
- Seafood Exports: Indian seafood exports (₹60,523 crore in FY2024) may find easier market access with standardised food rules, but small businesses may struggle to meet stringent requirements.
Diplomatic and Strategic Dimensions
- Strategic Alliances: A coordinated UK-EU foreign policy in defence and the Indo-Pacific could enhance India’s diplomatic influence.
- Existing Partnerships: India’s ties with the EU (via the 2025 Strategic Partnership) and with the UK (via the 2022 Comprehensive Strategic Partnership) cover cybersecurity, climate action, and maritime security.
- Defence Cooperation: France, Germany, and the UK are key partners in India’s defence modernisation, naval power, and technology transfer.
- Global Platforms: A united UK-EU stance could bolster India’s role at the UN, WTO, and G-20, while reinforcing support for India’s leadership in the Global South.
Migration and Talent Opportunities
- Diaspora: India has a large community in the UK and EU, with over 1,10,000 student visas issued by the UK in 2024 alone.
- Professional Mobility: Post-Brexit, Indian professionals faced barriers to EU markets; renewed UK-EU border cooperation could partially restore mobility.
- Bilateral Agreements: India’s migration pacts with Germany, France, and Portugal could gain strength within the larger UK-EU framework.
What is the European Union (EU)?
- The European Union is a political and economic union of 27 European countries.
- It was created to promote peace, stability, and economic cooperation after World War II.
- The EU allows free movement of goods, services, people, and capital among its member states.
- It has common policies on trade, agriculture, fisheries, and regional development.
- The EU has its own governing institutions like the European Commission, European Parliament, and European Court of Justice.
- Euro is the common currency used by 19 of the 27 member countries (called the Eurozone).
What is Brexit?
- Brexit is a combination of the words “Britain” and “exit,” meaning the UK’s exit from the EU.
- In June 2016, the UK held a referendum where 52% voted to leave the EU.
- The UK officially left the EU on January 31, 2020, after lengthy negotiations over the withdrawal terms.
- Brexit ended the UK’s participation in EU institutions and policies but required new trade and cooperation agreements.
- It has created economic and political uncertainties, especially concerning trade with the EU and Northern Ireland’s border.
Reasons behind Brexit
- Sovereignty: Many Britons wanted to regain full control over laws and borders, without EU interference.
- Immigration: Concerns over free movement of people leading to increased immigration.
- Economic independence: Desire to negotiate trade deals independently, outside the EU framework.
- Dissatisfaction: Criticism of EU bureaucracy and regulations seen as limiting the UK’s freedom.
Conclusion
The UK-EU reset creates a window of opportunity for India to enhance trade, deepen diplomatic ties, and support its global aspirations. India should act swiftly to upgrade its export systems, streamline policies, and assert itself in global governance.
UNIVERSITY VS CONSTITUTIONALLY PROTECTED SPEECH
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
The debate over the limits of free speech in universities has been reignited after several High Courts and the Supreme Court heard petitions on whether institutions can restrict teachers’ or students’ freedom of expression.
What is the issue?
- In India, some universities reportedly require prior approvals or discourage teachers from speaking on contemporary issues.
Importance of Free Speech in Universities
- The freedom of speech is a key part of democracy and human dignity.
- Universities are meant to be spaces of open debate, exploration of ideas, and knowledge creation.
- John Stuart Mill emphasized that even one dissenting voice matters as much as the majority’s views.
- Education flourishes in an environment that values dialogue and diverse opinions.
Labelling Opinions as Activism
- Teachers’ personal views are often labelled as activism by universities.
- A mere expression of an opinion, even if dissenting, should not be considered activism.
- A professor had earlier led a political party, proving that universities can allow teachers to express varied views.
Constitutionally Protected Speech
- Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution guarantees freedom of speech, with only ‘reasonable restrictions’ under Article 19(2).
- Restrictions must be based on grounds like national security, public order, decency, and defamation.
- Any restriction must satisfy the test of proportionality and be the least restrictive measure possible.
Judicial Views
- In Anuradha Bhasin vs Union of India (2020), the Supreme Court ruled that Internet access is part of free speech and that restrictions must be necessary and proportionate.
- Private universities also perform public functions and can be considered ‘state’ actors under Article 12, as held in Dr. Janet Jeyapaul vs S.R.M. University (2015).
The Way Forward
- Universities must understand that silencing views demotivates faculty and hinders academic excellence.
- A vibrant democracy demands that all opinions, even those that are critical, be allowed within universities.
- Institutions must respect constitutionally protected speech while ensuring that any restrictions are fair, necessary, and proportional.
Freedom of Speech in India:
- Freedom of Speech is the right to express one’s opinions freely through words, writing, or any other medium without fear of punishment or censorship.
- It is essential for democracy as it allows people to discuss, debate, and criticize the government and social issues.
Constitutional Provisions
- Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution: Guarantees the right to freedom of speech and expression to all citizens of India.
Freedoms under Article 19(1) (Rights Guaranteed)
- Article 19(1)(a): Freedom of speech and expression.
- Article 19(1)(b): Freedom to assemble peacefully without arms.
- Article 19(1)(c): Freedom to form associations or unions.
- Article 19(1)(d): Freedom to move freely throughout the territory of India.
- Article 19(1)(e): Freedom to reside and settle in any part of India.
- Article 19(1)(f): Freedom to practice any profession, or to carry on any occupation, trade, or business.
- Reasonable Restrictions – Article 19(2): This right is not absolute and can be restricted by the state on certain grounds for the larger interest of society.
- Grounds for Restrictions (Exceptions): Security of the State, Public Order, Decency and Morality, Contempt of Court, Defamation, Sovereignty and Integrity of India, Friendly Relations with Foreign States:
Important Laws Supporting Restrictions
- Indian Penal Code (IPC) Sections:
- Section 124A – Sedition (punishes speech inciting rebellion).
- Section 499 – Defamation.
- Sections 153A, 295A – Promoting enmity between groups, hurting religious sentiments.
- Information Technology Act, 2000: Regulates online speech and prohibits objectionable content.
Conclusion
Universities should be places of open discussion where all views can be heard, ensuring that democracy and knowledge thrive. Restrictions must strictly follow constitutional guidelines, protecting individual freedoms and academic integrity.
SHOULD INDIA AMEND ITS NUCLEAR ENERGY LAWS?
TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU
India is considering changes to its nuclear energy laws to allow private companies and foreign firms to invest and operate nuclear power plants. This is part of a plan to increase nuclear energy capacity from 8 GW to 100 GW by 2047, supporting the country’s clean energy targets.
Amendments to India’s Nuclear Energy Laws
- India’s current nuclear liability framework is governed mainly by:
- Civil Liability for Nuclear Damages Act (CLNDA), 2010
- Atomic Energy Act (AEA), 1962
- The government proposes amending these laws to:
- Allow private companies to build and run nuclear power plants.
- Encourage foreign investment and technology collaboration in nuclear energy.
Arguments in Favor of Amendments
- Need for Capacity Expansion: To meet the ambitious goal of 100 GW nuclear power by 2047, domestic capabilities alone are insufficient.
- Current Liability Law as a Barrier: The existing liability law holds suppliers liable, deterring foreign companies from investing. Several foreign firms from the U.S., France, and Japan have declined to enter the Indian nuclear market due to this law.
- Long-term Investment Perspective: Western suppliers will expand their capacity if India signals strong demand. Allowing private players may improve technology transfer and innovation, especially in Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
Arguments Against Amendments
- Some experts argue that the nuclear sector’s growth issues are not due to lack of investment alone.
- Other countries like the U.S., France, and Japan are not rapidly expanding nuclear power either.
- There is skepticism about whether private companies will share advanced nuclear technology fully.
- Past agreements with Russia showed limited technology transfer despite government contracts.
- Liability provisions ensure companies remain accountable in case of accidents.
nuclear power:
- Low Carbon Energy: Nuclear power is a clean energy source because it produces electricity without emitting greenhouse gases.
- Energy from Atom Splitting: It generates energy through nuclear fission, splitting uranium or plutonium atoms in a reactor.
- Steady Supply: Nuclear power provides a stable and continuous supply of electricity (called baseload power) unlike solar or wind.
- Radioactive Waste: Nuclear power plants produce radioactive waste that needs to be carefully managed and stored.
- Global Use: Countries like France, USA, China, and India use nuclear power to meet part of their energy needs.
What is Nuclear Power
- Nuclear power is energy produced from splitting atoms (nuclear fission) in a reactor to generate heat.
- This heat is used to make steam, which drives turbines to produce electricity.
- It’s considered a low-carbon energy source since it doesn’t emit greenhouse gases during operation.
India’s Nuclear Power Production Capabilities
- Installed Capacity: India’s current nuclear power capacity is about 8 GW (gigawatts). (AROUND 2% OF OVERALL POWER PRODUCTION)
- Key Nuclear Power Plants:
- Tarapur (Maharashtra)
- Kudankulam (Tamil Nadu)
- Kakrapar (Gujarat)
- Rawatbhata (Rajasthan)
- Kalpakkam (Tamil Nadu)
- Narora (Uttar Pradesh)
- All civilian nuclear power plants are operated by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL).
- Fuel: Mostly uses uranium fuel; India also has plans to use thorium in the future due to its large reserves.
- Three-Stage Nuclear Programme:
- Stage 1: Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) using natural uranium.
- Stage 2: Fast Breeder Reactors using plutonium.
- Stage 3: Thorium-based reactors to utilise India’s abundant thorium reserves.
- Future Goals:
- India aims to expand nuclear capacity to 100 GW by 2047 to support clean energy needs.
Conclusion
India’s plan to expand nuclear energy requires a balance between encouraging investment and maintaining strict safety and liability norms. Amending the nuclear laws could open doors for private and foreign participation but must be done carefully to protect public interests.
INSOLVENCY AND BANKRUPTCY CODE (IBC), 2016
TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU
The Supreme Court’s annulment of JSW Steel’s acquisition of Bhushan Power & Steel Ltd. has raised concerns about the finality of insolvency resolutions under the IBC, potentially affecting investor confidence and the effectiveness of India’s bankruptcy framework.
What is insolvency?
- Insolvency means being unable to pay debts—when a person or company cannot repay money they owe.
- It is a financial condition—not a legal process, but it often leads to bankruptcy or restructuring.
- It can happen to both individuals and companies, affecting their ability to function normally.
- It may require help from the court or professionals—like a resolution plan or liquidation—to sort out debts and protect creditors.
What is IBC?
- The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code is a law passed in 2016 to handle insolvency and bankruptcy cases in India in a quicker and organized way.
- Purpose: It aims to help resolve financial problems of companies, individuals, and firms so that debts can be paid off efficiently or businesses can be revived.
- Process: Under IBC, a time-bound process (usually 180-270 days) is followed to either restructure the company or liquidate its assets if it can’t pay its debts.
- Key Authority: Insolvency cases are managed by Insolvency Professionals, the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI), and Adjudicating Authorities like the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT).
Key Features:
-
- Time-bound resolution process (180 days, extendable to 330 days).
- Establishment of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI).
- Creation of a cadre of licensed Insolvency Professionals (IPs).
- Formation of the Committee of Creditors (CoC) to evaluate and approve resolution plans.
- Provision for moratorium during the insolvency resolution process.
Achievements of the IBC
- Improved Recovery Rates: Creditors have realized ₹3.89 lakh crore under the IBC framework, with a recovery rate of over 32.8% against admitted claims.
- Enhanced Credit Discipline: The IBC has instilled a sense of urgency among debtors to repay dues, changing the credit culture in the country.
- Reduction in NPAs: Gross Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) of scheduled commercial banks have declined from a peak of 11.2% in March 2018 to 2.8% in March 2024.
- Pre-admission Settlements: Over 30,000 cases, involving defaults worth ₹13.78 lakh crore, have been settled before admission into the insolvency process.
Challenges Facing the IBC
- Judicial Delays: Despite the stipulated timelines, the average duration for resolution has extended beyond the prescribed limits, leading to delays in the insolvency process.
- Post-resolution Uncertainties: Instances like the Bhushan Power & Steel case have highlighted uncertainties even after resolution plans are approved and implemented.
- Limited Capacity: The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) faces capacity constraints, affecting the timely disposal of cases.
- Need for Clarity: Ambiguities in certain provisions of the IBC necessitate clearer guidelines to prevent varied interpretations.
The Bhushan Power & Steel Verdict: Implications
- Case Summary: The Supreme Court annulled JSW Steel’s ₹19,700-crore acquisition of Bhushan Power & Steel, citing non-compliance with the IBC provisions.
Key Concerns:
- The verdict questions the finality of approved resolution plans, potentially deterring future investors.
- It underscores the necessity for strict adherence to the IBC’s procedural requirements.
- The decision may lead to increased litigation and uncertainty in the insolvency resolution process.
Way Forward
- Strengthening Institutional Capacity: Enhancing the infrastructure and manpower of adjudicating authorities like the NCLT to expedite case resolutions.
- Ensuring Finality: Establishing clear legal provisions to uphold the sanctity of approved resolution plans.
- Continuous Reforms: Regularly updating the IBC framework to address emerging challenges and incorporate global best practices.
- Stakeholder Confidence: Building trust among investors and creditors by ensuring transparency and predictability in the insolvency process.
STATE OF INDIA’S TIGER PREY AND CHALLENGES TO THEIR HABITAT
TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU
A recent detailed report by the National Tiger Conservation Authority and the Wildlife Institute of India assessed the distribution and density of ungulate species in India, revealing an uneven distribution and decline in some states. The findings are significant as ungulates form the main prey base for India’s tiger population, crucial for maintaining tiger habitats and ecosystems.
Key Findings of the Report
- Assessment Method: The study was based on data from the 2022 All-India Tiger Estimation exercise, using field surveys, camera traps, and dung evidence.
- Overall Status: Spotted deer (chital), sambar, and gaur populations are generally stable in most tiger reserves and national parks but declining in Odisha, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh.
- Regional Disparity: Healthy populations exist in Uttarakhand, the Western Ghats, central India, and parts of the northeast, but significant declines are noted in east-central India.
Reasons for Decline
- Habitat Degradation: Deforestation, mining, and infrastructure development fragment forests, affecting the prey population.
- Human Pressures: Left-wing extremism and subsistence hunting further reduce their numbers.
- Fragmented Habitats: Species like barasingha and hog deer are limited to isolated habitats, hindering their interbreeding and long-term survival.
Species-wise Health
- Chital: Widely distributed and abundant, even near agricultural areas.
- Sambar: Stable in most landscapes, especially in central India and the Western Ghats.
- Gaur: Thriving in the Western Ghats and central India.
- Hog Deer & Barasingha: Declining due to loss of wetlands and grasslands, now confined to few pockets.
Impact on Tigers and Conservation
- Reduced Prey Base: Low prey density weakens tiger survival and dispersal, leading to increased human-wildlife conflict as tigers turn to livestock.
- Carrying Capacity: Some regions like Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh are reaching their wildlife support limits, pushing tigers to move into less suitable habitats with inadequate prey.
- Human-Wildlife Conflict: Livestock predation by tigers, and crop damage by wild pigs and nilgai, intensify tensions with local communities.
Way Forward
- Habitat Restoration: Protecting and linking fragmented habitats to allow prey movement and breeding.
- On-site Breeding: Establishing safe enclosures to breed and reintroduce prey species.
- Mitigating Development Impacts: Careful planning of roads and power lines to avoid cutting through crucial wildlife corridors.
NATIONAL TIGER CONSERVATION AUTHORITY (NTCA)
- NTCA was established in 2005 under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 to strengthen tiger conservation in India.
- It oversees the implementation of Project Tiger and supports states in managing tiger reserves.
- It monitors tiger population status and ensures ecological and habitat protection.
- NTCA also advises the government on policy-making and ensures coordination among different stakeholders.
WILDLIFE INSTITUTE OF INDIA (WII)
- WII is an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
- It conducts research, training, and education on wildlife conservation and management.
- WII assists in wildlife population surveys, habitat assessments, and species recovery plans.
- It collaborates with national and international organizations for biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
Conclusion
Protecting ungulates is vital for sustaining tiger populations and balancing forest ecosystems. A coordinated approach focusing on habitat improvement, prey recovery, and local community involvement is essential for long-term conservation.
The post Daily Current Affairs 06-June-2025 first appeared on Ekam IAS Academy.