12 march 2025 Current Affairs

La Nina

Syllabus: Geography

La Niña is a climatic phenomenon characterized by the cooling of surface ocean waters along the tropical west coast of South America.
It is the opposite phase of El Niño, which is associated with unusually warm ocean temperatures in the equatorial Pacific.
Together, these events form the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle, influencing global weather patterns.
La Niña is identified when sea surface temperatures decrease by more than 0.5°C (0.9°F) for at least five consecutive three-month seasons.

Causes of La Niña

La Niña occurs due to the accumulation of cooler-than-normal waters in the tropical Pacific, a region between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn.
This cooling is driven by unusually strong trade winds and ocean currents, which push warm surface waters westward, allowing cold, deep ocean water to rise to the surface—a process known as upwelling.
This significant drop in sea-surface temperature alters global atmospheric circulation patterns.

Effects of La Niña

Impact on Air Pressure and Rainfall

La Niña reduces air pressure over the western Pacific, leading to increased rainfall.
Southeast Asia experiences stronger summer monsoons, benefiting agriculture in regions like northwest India and Bangladesh.

Risk of Flooding in Australia

While La Niña enhances rainfall for agriculture in South Asia, severe events can lead to excessive precipitation and flooding in northern Australia.

Global Rainfall Patterns

Increased rainfall occurs in southeastern Africa and northern Brazil.
Conversely, La Niña raises air pressure over the central and eastern Pacific, causing drier conditions in those regions.

Drier Conditions in Certain Areas

The west coast of tropical South America, the Gulf Coast of the United States, and the pampas of South America experience reduced rainfall and prolonged dry spells.

Boost to the Fishing Industry

The upwelling effect brings cold, nutrient-rich waters to the surface, fostering plankton growth.
This supports marine ecosystems, benefiting fish populations and the fishing industry, particularly in regions like the eastern Pacific.

Duration and Seasonal Trends: La Niña events typically last between one and three years, whereas El Niño events are usually shorter, lasting less than a year. Both phenomena tend to peak during the Northern Hemisphere winter, significantly influencing global weather patterns.

By shaping rainfall distribution, ocean currents, and atmospheric circulation, La Niña plays a crucial role in global climate variability, impacting agriculture, economies, and ecosystems worldwide.

Consider the following statements regarding La Niña:

It is associated with the cooling of sea surface temperatures in the eastern and central Pacific Ocean.
It leads to an increase in air pressure over the western Pacific, resulting in reduced monsoon activity in South Asia.
It enhances upwelling, which benefits marine ecosystems and fisheries in the eastern Pacific.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: (a) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: La Niña is characterized by cooler-than-normal sea surface temperatures in the eastern and central Pacific.
Statement 2 is incorrect: La Niña lowers air pressure over the western Pacific, leading to stronger monsoons in South Asia, not weaker ones.
Statement 3 is correct: Upwelling caused by La Niña brings nutrient-rich cold water to the surface, which boosts marine productivity and benefits fisheries.

KHANJAR-XII

The 12th edition of the India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise KHANJAR-XII is currently underway in Kyrgyzstan.First initiated in 2011, this annual exercise is conducted alternately in both countries.
This year, the Indian Army’s Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and Kyrgyzstan’s Scorpion Brigade are actively participating.
The primary objective of the exercise is to enhance interoperability and cooperation in counter-terrorism and special operations, particularly in urban environments and high-altitude terrains. Key training areas include sniping, building intervention, and mountain warfare.
Beyond military drills, the exercise fosters cultural exchanges, with participants engaging in local traditions such as Nowruz celebrations—further strengthening bilateral ties between India and Kyrgyzstan.
This joint exercise is a significant step in bolstering defence collaboration, addressing regional security threats like terrorism and extremism, and promoting peace and stability in the region.
Strategically, Kyrgyzstan’s location in Central Asia, particularly its shared Fergana Valley with Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, underscores its geopolitical importance. The region is also rich in hydrocarbons, making it vital for India’s energy security.

. Consider the following statements regarding Exercise KHANJAR-XII:

It is an annual bilateral military exercise between India and Kyrgyzstan, focusing primarily on naval operations.
The Indian Army’s Ghatak Platoon and Kyrgyzstan’s Scorpion Brigade participate in this exercise.
It emphasizes counter-terrorism and special operations, particularly in urban and high-altitude terrains.
The exercise was first conducted in 2011 and has been held alternately in both countries.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 and 4 only
(c) 1, 3, and 4 only
(d) 2 and 4 only

Answer: (b) 3 and 4 only
Explanation: statement 1 is incorrect: KHANJAR-XII is not a naval exercise; it focuses on special forces operations in counter-terrorism, urban warfare, and mountain combat.

Statement 2 is incorrect: The Indian Army’s Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), not the Ghatak Platoon, participates in this exercise.
Statements 3 and 4 are correct: The exercise aims to enhance special operations capabilities and has been conducted annually since 2011.

H1N1 Virus

Consider the following statements regarding H1N1 (Swine Flu):
1. H1N1 is caused by a Type B influenza virus.
2. The first confirmed case of H1N1 in India was reported in 2009.
3. Human-to-human transmission of H1N1 has never been reported.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
Answer: (b) 2 only
- Explanation: The correct option is (b) 2 only, as statement 2 is correct, while statements 1 and 3 are incorrect. Initially, H1N1 was believed to spread only from pigs to humans, but scientific studies confirmed human-to-human transmission soon after the 2009 outbreak.
- The virus spreads primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, similar to seasonal flu.
- Studies and epidemiological data confirm sustained human-to-human transmission of H1N1, making it capable of spreading within communities.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have documented multiple cases of human-to-human transmission, particularly in crowded and enclosed environments.This statement is incorrect as H1N1 has been proven to spread from person to person, which is why it led to a pandemic in 2009.

With reference to the India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise ‘Khanjar-XII,’ consider the following statements:

The exercise has been conducted annually since 2011 and is held exclusively in Kyrgyzstan.
The Indian contingent primarily consists of personnel from the Ghatak Platoon of the Indian Army.
The Kyrgyzstan contingent in Khanjar-XII includes the Kyrgyz Scorpion Brigade.
The exercise mainly focuses on naval warfare and maritime security cooperation.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 3 only
c) 1, 3, and 4 only
d) 2 and 4 only

Answer: (b) 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 – Incorrect: While the exercise began in 2011, it is not exclusively held in Kyrgyzstan. It alternates between India and Kyrgyzstan.

Statement 2 – Incorrect: The Indian contingent consists of troops from the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), not the Ghatak Platoon.

Statement 3 – Correct: The Kyrgyz Scorpion Brigade is the designated unit from Kyrgyzstan participating in the exercise.

Statement 4 – Incorrect: The exercise focuses on counter-terrorism, special operations, and mountain warfare, not naval warfare or maritime security.

Sarus Crane

A rare sighting of the Sarus Crane (Grus antigone) has been reported in the Saikhowa region of Tinsukia, Assam, drawing the attention of birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.

About the Sarus Crane

Tallest Flying Bird: The Sarus Crane holds the distinction of being the tallest flying bird in the world.
Scientific Name: Grus Antigone

Distribution

Found in Southeast Asia, northern India, and northern Australia.
In India, their population is densely distributed along the Gangetic plains and eastern Rajasthan, with lower densities further south.
Unlike many other crane species, the Sarus Crane is non-migratory.

Habitat

Prefers wetlands, including canals, marshes, and ponds.
Often found in proximity to human habitation.

Distinctive Features of the Sarus Crane

Height: 152-156 cm, making it the tallest of all flying birds.
Wingspan: Can reach up to 5 meters.
Weight: Ranges from 5 to 12 kg.
Plumage: Mostly grey with a naked red head, upper neck, and pale red legs.
White Markings: A white patch on the top of the head and a small white spot behind the eye.

Social Behavior:

Considered the least social of all cranes, usually seen in pairs or small groups of three to four.
Monogamous species—pairs bond for life.
Nesting:
Nests are built in wetlands or flooded paddy fields.
Lifespan:
Generally 30 to 40 years, though some crane species have been recorded to live up to 80 years.

Conservation Status

IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
CITES: Listed in Appendix II
Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule IV
The Sarus Crane population faces threats from habitat destruction, wetland degradation, and human disturbances. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensuring the survival of this iconic species.

Consider the following statements regarding the Sarus Crane (Grus antigone):

It is the tallest non-flying bird in the world.
Sarus Cranes are migratory birds that travel across different regions based on seasonal changes.
In India, they are predominantly found in the Gangetic plains and eastern Rajasthan.
The Sarus Crane is listed as “Endangered” on the IUCN Red List.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 4 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 4 only

Answer: (b) 3 only

Explanation:

The Sarus Crane is the tallest flying bird, not a non-flying bird. (Statement 1 is incorrect)
Unlike many other crane species, the Sarus Crane is non-migratory and remains in its habitat throughout the year. (Statement 2 is incorrect)
In India, its population is densely distributed along the Gangetic plains and eastern Rajasthan, with lower densities in the south. (Statement 3 is correct)
The Sarus Crane is classified as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List, not “Endangered.” (Statement 4 is incorrect)

Karnataka’s Controversial Sharavathi Hydroelectric Project

Project Overview

Located in Karnataka, the project aims to generate 2,000 MW of electricity.
It also seeks to supply drinking water to Bengaluru.
Consists of upper and lower reservoirs with a pumped storage mechanism.
Modeled after Telangana’s Kaleshwaram project.
Requires five tunnels and eight pumping stations.
Estimated cost: ₹8,000 crore.

Environmental Concerns

Threatens the Sharavathi Valley, a biodiversity hotspot in the Western Ghats.
Home to endangered species like the Lion-tailed Macaque and Great Indian Hornbill.
Requires clearing 360 acres of protected forest land within a wildlife sanctuary.
Karnataka’s forest cover is only 20%, below the national target of 33%.
Potential violations of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

Technical and Economic Viability

Consumes more electricity than it generates (Deficit project).
Expected to generate 12,000 MWh annually, but requires 14,833 MWh for pumping.
Raises concerns about economic feasibility due to increased energy demand.
May require additional costly energy projects to compensate for the shortfall.

Legal and Procedural Challenges

The Karnataka High Court has issued a stay order on the bidding process.
Allegations of corruption and favoritism in awarding the contract to MEIL.
Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL) under scrutiny for irregularities.
Critics highlight lack of transparency and rushed bidding process.

Political and Public Reactions

Opposition parties accuse the Congress-led state government of benefiting vested interests.
Environmental activists and local communities mobilizing protests and legal challenges.
Reflects the larger conflict between energy expansion and conservation.

Broader National Implications

Raises concerns over India’s renewable energy goals vs. ecological sustainability.
Could set a precedent for balancing development and conservation.
The future of the Western Ghats’ biodiversity remains uncertain.

Consider the following statements regarding the Sharavathi Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project (PSHP):

It is designed to generate electricity by utilizing the natural flow of the Sharavathi River without requiring water pumping.
The project is modeled after Telangana’s Kaleshwaram project.
The project is located in the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only
Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect: The project requires water pumping uphill during off-peak hours, making it a pumped storage system rather than a conventional hydropower project.
Statement 2 is correct: The project is modeled after Telangana’s Kaleshwaram project, which also involves water pumping infrastructure.
Statement 3 is correct: The Western Ghats is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the project is located within this ecologically sensitive region.

Wheat and Sugar Crop Outlook for 2025

The agricultural sector in 2025 presents a complex scenario for key rabi crops, particularly wheat and sugar. While wheat production shows signs of stability, concerns persist over potential yield fluctuations. Meanwhile, sugar production faces significant challenges that could impact food inflation.

Wheat Production Status

Wheat remains a crucial rabi crop in India.
As of early 2025, government wheat stocks stand at 140 lakh tonnes, a significant rise from 75 lakh tonnes the previous year.
Higher opening stocks for the upcoming procurement season provide a buffer against potential shortages.
The government has restricted open market sales to regulate prices and ensure stability.

Procurement and Pricing Trends

Current wheat prices in Delhi range from ₹2,950 to ₹3,000 per quintal, exceeding last year’s prices.
To prevent hoarding, the government has imposed stocking limits on traders and retailers.
The new wheat harvest is expected to arrive between March and April, which may influence price adjustments based on production levels.

Weather Impact on Wheat Yields

Weather conditions remain a crucial factor in wheat yields.
Central India is experiencing favorable conditions, with expected yield increases of 15-20% compared to the previous year.
The grain-filling stage is critical, and temperatures must stay below 35°C for optimal production.
If temperatures remain stable, higher yields could help ease inflation concerns.

Challenges in Sugar Production

Unlike wheat, sugar production is experiencing a decline in 2025.
Initial projections estimated a gross production of 333 lakh tonnes, but ongoing assessments indicate a lower figure.
As of February 2025, net sugar production stands at 220 lakh tonnes, a drop from the previous year.

Factors Affecting Sugar Output

Deficient rainfall in key sugarcane-producing states such as Maharashtra and Karnataka has reduced cane availability.
Pest infestations and disease outbreaks in sugarcane crops have further worsened the situation.
A potential demand-supply mismatch may arise, especially during the festive season.

Sugar Price Trends and Inflation Risks

Ex-factory sugar prices have increased:
- Uttar Pradesh: ₹40.10-41.10 per kg
- Maharashtra: ₹38-38.70 per kg
Rising prices could exert inflationary pressure, necessitating government intervention.
Possible policy measures include:
- Stock limits to prevent price manipulation.
- Facilitating sugar imports to stabilize supply.

With reference to wheat production in India in 2025, consider the following statements:

The government’s wheat stock has significantly declined compared to the previous year.
Central India is witnessing unfavorable weather conditions, leading to a projected decline in wheat yields.
The government has imposed stocking limits on traders and retailers to curb price manipulation.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: (c) 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect: The government’s wheat stock increased from 75 lakh tonnes last year to 140 lakh tonnes in 2025, providing a buffer against shortages.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Central India is witnessing favorable weather conditions, with expected wheat yield increases of 15-20% compared to the previous year.
Statement 3 is correct: The government has imposed stocking limits on traders and retailers to prevent hoarding and price inflation.

Kursk Region

Russian Offensive in the Kursk Region

Russian forces have launched a large-scale counteroffensive to reclaim western parts of the Kursk region from Ukrainian troops. This development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, with strategic and historical implications.

About the Kursk Region

Geographical Significance:

- Kursk is a city and the administrative center of Kursk Oblast, located along Russia’s southwestern border.
- It lies approximately 450 km south of Moscow, along the upper Seym River.
- The region is part of the Black Earth Belt, known for its exceptionally fertile soil.
- Kursk has a moderately continental climate, characterized by significant seasonal variations.

Historical Importance:

- Kursk is one of Russia’s oldest cities, first recorded in 1032.
- In 1240, the city was destroyed by the Tatars and remained in ruins until 1586, when it was rebuilt as a military outpost.
- Battle of Kursk (July–August 1943):
  - The city was a key battleground during World War II, witnessing the largest tank battle in history.
  - The German defeat in Kursk marked a turning point in the Eastern Front.

Economic and Industrial Landscape:

Kursk has a diverse industrial base, with key sectors including:
- Machine building
- Food processing
- Electronic equipment production
- Synthetic fiber manufacturing
These industries contribute significantly to the region’s economic growth.

Recent Developments & Ongoing Conflict

In the summer of 2024, Ukrainian forces launched a surprise lightning offensive, capturing parts of Russia’s Kursk region.
However, Ukraine’s hold on Kursk has weakened, as Russia intensifies its counteroffensive to reclaim lost territory.
The Russian advance threatens Kyiv’s sole territorial bargaining chip, making this battle crucial for both sides at a critical juncture in the war.

Consider the following statements regarding the Kursk region:

Kursk is located in the Black Earth Belt, known for its highly fertile soil.
The Battle of Kursk in World War II was the largest naval battle in history.
The city of Kursk was first mentioned in historical records in the 13th century.
Kursk has a continental climate with distinct seasonal variations.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 4 only
(b) 1, 3, and 4 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

Answer: (a) 1 and 4 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: Kursk is part of Russia’s Black Earth Belt, known for its highly fertile soil, making it agriculturally significant.
Statement 2 is incorrect: The Battle of Kursk (1943) was the largest tank battle in history, not a naval battle.
Statement 3 is incorrect: Kursk was first mentioned in 1032, which is in the 11th century, not the 13th century.
Statement 4 is correct: Kursk has a moderately continental climate with distinct seasonal variations.

Shingles Disease:

Understanding Shingles Disease

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection that causes a painful rash or blisters on the skin.
The rash often appears in a band-like pattern in a specific area of the body but can occur anywhere.
The risk of developing shingles increases with age, making it most common in individuals above 50 years.

Cause of Shingles

It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus—the same virus responsible for chickenpox.
After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the body, residing in nerve tissues.
In later life, reactivation of the virus can lead to shingles, often triggered by weakened immunity, stress, or aging.

Is Shingles Contagious?

Shingles itself is not contagious, meaning it cannot spread directly from person to person.
However, the varicella-zoster virus can spread to individuals who have never had chickenpox or not been vaccinated, causing chickenpox, not shingles.
Symptoms of Shingles

Common symptoms include:

Pain, itching, tingling, and numbness in the affected area.
Fever, headache, chills, and fatigue may also occur.
While shingles is not life-threatening, it can be extremely painful.

Complications

The most common complication is postherpetic neuralgia (PHN)—a condition where shingles pain persists long after the blisters heal.
Other complications may include vision problems (if it affects the eyes) and neurological issues in severe cases.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention:

Shingrix is a vaccine that helps prevent shingles and its long-term complications.
Treatment:
There is no cure for shingles.
Antiviral medications can help reduce severity and duration, especially when started early in the infection.

With reference to Shingles (Herpes Zoster), consider the following statements:

Shingles is caused by the same virus responsible for measles.
A person who has never had chickenpox cannot develop shingles.
Shingles is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact with an infected person’s blisters.
Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a common complication of shingles.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 4 only
(d) 1, 3, and 4 only

Answer:

(c) 4 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect: Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which is also responsible for chickenpox, not measles (which is caused by the measles virus).
Statement 2 is incorrect: Shingles can only occur in individuals who have previously had chickenpox because the varicella-zoster virus remains dormant in the body. However, a person who has never had chickenpox can contract chickenpox if exposed to the virus from a person with shingles.
Statement 3 is incorrect: Shingles is not highly contagious. While the virus can spread, it does so only through direct contact with fluid from the blisters, and even then, it causes chickenpox, not shingles in those who have never had chickenpox before.
Statement 4 is correct: Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a painful condition where shingles pain persists for months or even years after the rash disappears, making it the most common complication of shingles.

Chandrayaan-3

Overview of Chandrayaan-3

Chandrayaan-3 is the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) second attempt at achieving a successful lunar landing and rover operation, following Chandrayaan-2.
The mission was launched aboard ISRO’s LVM3 rocket, an advanced three-stage launch vehicle designed for cost-effective placement of payloads into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO).
The LVM3 M4 launcher successfully deployed the integrated modules into an elliptical parking orbit (170 x 36,500 km) before its lunar journey.

Mission Objectives

The primary objectives of Chandrayaan-3 include:

Achieving a safe and soft landing on the Moon.
Deploying a rover to conduct surface exploration.
Performing in-situ scientific experiments to analyze lunar composition and thermal properties.
Investigating the presence of water ice, which could support future lunar habitation and interplanetary travel.
Mission Components

Chandrayaan-3 consists of:

Lander Module (LM): Responsible for soft-landing and conducting surface experiments.
Rover: Designed to explore and analyze the lunar surface.
Propulsion Module (PM): Provides necessary thrust for trans-lunar injection and payload support.

Recent Scientific Findings

New data from Chandrayaan-3 suggests that water ice deposits may exist beyond the Moon’s polar regions.
The Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), Ahmedabad, conducted a study based on data from the Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment (ChaSTE)

Key Findings from ChaSTE:

A 60°C temperature difference was recorded between the lunar surface and 10 cm beneath it.
This suggests that the Moon’s surface layer is highly non-conductive, offering crucial insights into its thermal properties and composition.
The discovery strengthens the possibility of water ice being more widespread than previously believed, impacting future lunar missions and resource utilization strategies.

With reference to Chandrayaan-3 and its recent findings, consider the following statements:

Chandrayaan-3 was launched using the PSLV rocket, which is specifically designed for interplanetary missions.
The Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment (ChaSTE) instrument provided evidence of uniform thermal conductivity across the Moon’s surface.
New findings suggest that water ice may exist beyond the Moon’s polar regions, altering previous assumptions about lunar resource distribution.
The primary objective of Chandrayaan-3 was to conduct orbital mapping of lunar water ice without deploying a lander or rover.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1, 2, and 4 only
(d) 2, 3, and 4 only

Answer: (b) 3 only

Explanation:

Incorrect: Chandrayaan-3 was launched using the LVM3 (Launch Vehicle Mark-3), not PSLV. LVM3 is a heavy-lift rocket capable of placing payloads in Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). PSLV, on the other hand, is primarily used for Earth observation satellites and deep-space probes but is not designed for carrying heavy payloads like Chandrayaan-3.
Incorrect: The ChaSTE instrument revealed a significant 60°C temperature difference between the lunar surface and 10 cm below, suggesting that the Moon’s surface is highly non-conductive. This contradicts the idea of uniform thermal conductivity.
Correct: New findings based on data from ChaSTE and PRL Ahmedabad suggest that water ice may be present beyond the Moon’s polar regions, expanding the potential resource availability for future lunar exploration and human settlement.
Incorrect: Chandrayaan-3 included a lander (Vikram) and a rover (Pragyan) to conduct in-situ experiments on the Moon’s surface. Orbital mapping of lunar ice was not the mission’s primary goal; instead, the lander-rover system was designed for surface-based scientific exploration.