MAINS DAILY QUESTIONS & MODEL ANSWERS
Q1. What is oil pollution? What effects does it have on the marine environment? How exactly can oil pollution hurt an Indian nation like this?
GS III – Environmental Conservation
Introduction:
- The release of crude oil or refined petroleum products into water bodies as a result of mishaps involving oil tankers, pipelines, offshore drilling rigs, or other industrial activities is referred to as oil pollution, also known as oil contamination or oil spills.
Effects it has on the maritime environment:
- Damage to Marine Life: Oil spills cover seabird feathers and fur, making it impossible for marine species to regulate their body temperatures and causing hypothermia.
- Toxicity: Components of crude oil are harmful to marine life, harming their organs and preventing them from reproducing.
- Destroying Habitat: Important habitats for marine life, such as marshes, seagrass beds, and coral reefs, can be harmed by oil spills.
- Disruption of the Food Chain: Because many species are interdependent, a loss of biodiversity can have a domino effect. For instance, pollution with oil might kill the major producer, phytoplankton.
For a nation like India, oil pollution is very dangerous for a number of reasons:
- Economic Impact: India is the third-largest fish producer in the world, behind China, and the second-largest aquaculture nation in the world. Oil pollution can cause problems for the fishing and tourism sectors.
- Environmental Repercussions: Oil pollution can cause a decline in biodiversity. India is home to a variety of maritime ecosystems, such as mangroves and coral reefs.
- Consequences for Health: India’s coastline stretches more than 7,500 km. For residents of coastal areas and those who depend on seafood, oil spills can be extremely dangerous to their health.
Way Forward:
- India is concerned about oil pollution, and measures to stop and lessen the effects of oil spills are crucial to safeguarding the nation’s coastal ecosystem, economy, and the welfare of its coastal residents.
Q2. Why is the Bhojpur Region’s South-West Monsoon known as “Purvaiya” (easterly)? What effects has this seasonal wind system had on the region’s cultured ethos?
GS I – Geography related issues
Introduction:
- In India, the South-West Monsoon, which lasts from June to September, brings heavy rains. These monsoon winds change direction and become easterly ‘Purvaiya’ winds in the Bhojpur area when they come into contact with different mountain ranges. The unique wind pattern that blows over northern portions of India and Nepal has a significant influence on the cultural identity of Bhojpur.
Impact of Purvaiya on Bhojpur’s Cultural Ethos:
- Agriculture and Festivals: Teej and Purvaiya are celebrations that mark the beginning of the planting season.
- Rituals and Beliefs: To ensure bountiful crops, people worship rain gods like Indra and Parjanya. Madhushravani entails the devotion of Gosaun and Vishahara.
- Traditional Cuisine: The region’s cuisine is influenced by Purvaiya, which promotes the growth of fruits, vegetables, and rice. During this season, special meals like Pua are also prepared.
- Folklore: Proverbs, songs, and poems that highlight the significance and feelings of the winds frequently include “Purvaiya.” Examples include folk songs like “Birha” and proverbs like “Purvaiya chale to khet khile.”
Conclusion:
- As a result, Purvaiya winds play a crucial role in forming Bhojpur’s customs, festivals, and way of life.
