• 19 Dec 2024

Surajkund Fair 2025

Why in News? 

The Surajkund International Craft Fair is scheduled between 7th to 23rd February 2025 in Faridabad. The authorities are likely to spend around Rs. 1.50 crore on repair work. 

 Key Points 

• About the Fair: 
  • It is an effective platform to connect our craftsmen with art lovers. This fair is both an art exhibition and a business centre. 
  • The fair showcases the richness and diversity of the handicrafts, handlooms and the cultural heritage of India. 
  • The department is focusing on expanding the fair area in 2025, with an emphasis on increasing huts for artisans and participants. 
    • The number of additional huts is yet to be finalized and depends on the availability of open space. 
    • Additional huts, designed to be weather-proof, are expected to meet the growing demand due to the fair's increasing popularity and participation. 
      • In 2024, authorities provided around 1,150 huts, accommodating over 1,500 indigenous and 250 foreign craftspeople. 
  • Authorities have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) for ticketing and parking facilities. 
  • Partner Nations and Theme: 
    • BIMSTEC countries (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Thailand, Nepal, and Sri Lanka) remain partner nations for the event. 
    • The theme state for the upcoming fair is yet to be announced, though Northeastern states like Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Tripura, and Mizoram will be given special focus for showcasing art and craft. 

BIMSTEC  

• BIMSTEC is a regional organisation comprising 7 member states - Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. 
• It was formed in 1997 with the aim of promoting multifaceted technical and economic cooperation among the countries of the Bay of Bengal region. 
• The region covered by BIMSTEC is home to around 1.5 billion people, with a combined GDP of over USD 3.8 trillion. 

Low Water Supply in Haryana and UP

Why in News? 

The water level of the Yamuna has significantly decreased due to lack of rain in the upper hills of Himachal Pradesh, causing a severe shortfall in water supply in Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. 

 Key Points 

• Water Level at Hathnikund Barrage: 
  • The water level at Hathnikund Barrage rose but despite the rise, the current supply remains far below demand, impacting irrigation, drinking water supply, and hydropower generation. 
• Western Jamuna Canal (WJC) Shortfall: 
  • The WJC has a water demand of 9,000 cusecs, but only 1,756 cusecs were released. 
  • The canal provides drinking water to Delhi and irrigates crops in southern Haryana, both of which have been severely affected by the shortfall. 
• Eastern Jamuna Canal (EJC) Shortfall: 
  • The EJC, which caters to Uttar Pradesh, requires 1,500 cusecs but received only 182 cusecs. 
  • Water supply to the EJC was stopped due to low flow in the river, which dropped to 1,142 cusecs. 
• Impact on Hydropower Projects: 
  • Hydropower projects in Naino Wali, Bhudkalan, Begampur, and Dadupur villages have been impacted by the Yamuna's water shortage. 

 Yamuna River 

• About:  
  • The Yamuna River is one of the major tributaries of the Ganges in Northern India. 
  • It forms an integral part of the Yamuna-Ganga Plain, one of the world's most extensive alluvial plains. 
• Source:  
  • It has its source in the Yamunotri Glacier at an elevation of 6,387 meters on the southwestern sides of Banderpooch crests in the lower Himalayan ranges. 
• Basin:  
  • It meets the Ganges at the Sangam (where Kumbh mela is held) in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh after flowing through Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana and Delhi. 
• Important Dam:  
  • Lakhwar-Vyasi Dam (Uttarakhand), Tajewala Barrage Dam (Haryana) etc. 
• Important Tributaries: Chambal, Sindh, Betwa and Ken. 

Urea-Efficient Wheat Varieties

Why in News? 

Indian and Japanese institutions are collaborating to develop India's first wheat varieties using Biological Nitrification Inhibition (BNI) technology, marking a significant step towards sustainable agriculture.  

• Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-Central Soil Salinity Research Institute(CSSRI), Karnal is involved in this project. 

 Key Points 

• Aim: 
  • These varieties aim to reduce urea dependency, addressing challenges such as environmental sustainability, agricultural productivity, and the financial burden of urea subsidies. 
• Collaborative Effort: 
  • The project is also a joint initiative by Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research (IIWBR), Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), and Borlaug Institute for South Asia (BISA). 
  • It is carried out in collaboration with the Japan International Research Centre for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS) and funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). 
• Transformative Potential of BNI: 
  • According to Scientists at CSSRI, BNI technology can reduce nitrogen fertiliser demand without compromising yield or quality. 
  • He added that BNI supports sustainable agriculture by minimizing nitrogen leaching into groundwater, thereby preserving soil fertility and water resources. 
• Promising Results: 
  • Senior Scientist at IIWBR, reported a 15-20% reduction in urea usage in initial experiments without affecting yield or quality. 
  • The breeding strategy for developing BNI-enabled wheat varieties is progressing well. 
• Future Implications: 
  • This breakthrough collaboration between India and Japan is set to revolutionize wheat cultivation, reduce urea dependency, and address global agricultural challenges. 

 Biological Nitrification Inhibition (BNI)  

• It is a natural plant process that can help regulate nitrification in agricultural systems, and improve nitrogen-use efficiency. 
• It can help develop sustainable agricultural systems that are productive but least damaging to the environment.  
• High levels of nitrification can lead to NO leaching, denitrification, and greenhouse gas emissions. 

 Subsidy on Urea 

• In India, urea is the most produced, imported, consumed and physically regulated fertiliser of all. It is subsidised only for agricultural uses. 
• The Centre pays a subsidy on urea to fertiliser manufacturers on the basis of cost of production at each plant and the units are required to sell the fertiliser at the government-set Maximum Retail Price (MRP). 

Ropeway Project to Vaishno Devi Shrine

Why in News? 

Recently, a shutdown was observed in Katra to oppose a ropeway that will connect Tarakote Marg to Sanji Chhat, along the 12-kilometre steep track of the Vaishno Devi shrine, in the Jammu region. 

 Key Points 

• Protest Against Ropeway Project: 
  • The Vaishno Devi Trek Mazdoor Union, voiced opposition to the ropeway project, stating it threatens the livelihood of over 60,000 families, including hoteliers, shopkeepers, pony operators, laborers, and transporters. 
  • The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti called for a shutdown in Katra, which disrupted business in the local market. 
  • Withdrawal of Shutdown Call: 
  • The Samiti withdrew the shutdown after receiving fresh assurances from local authorities. 
  • The Deputy Commissioner requested five days to analyze their demands, according to Samiti members. 
• Shrine Board Meeting Chaired by Lieutenant Governor: 
  • J&K Lieutenant Governor chaired the 73rd Meeting of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board at Raj Bhawan. 
  • The Lieutenant Governor inaugurated new pilgrim-centric facilities and laid the foundation stone for a new exit track aimed at decongesting the Bhawan area. 
• Board's Decisions and Future Plans: 
  • The Shrine Board conducted a comprehensive review of its previous decisions but did not issue a specific statement on the ongoing protests in Katra. 
  • The Lieutenant Governor emphasized improving transparency and efficiency to enhance the pilgrim experience. 
• MoU to Address Landslides: 
  • The Board approved a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and THDC India Limited (THDCIL). 
  • The MoU aims to identify and treat slopes vulnerable to landslides and rockfalls along the Yatra route between Adhkuwari and Bhawan. 

 Vaishno Devi Temple 

• The temple is located at 5,200 feet in the Trikuta mountains, sees over one crore visitors annually, with a 12 km trek from Katra. 
• Key Landmarks: Darshani Deodhi, Banganga, Chara Paduka, Indraprastha, Adhkuari, Garbha Joon, Himkoti, Haathi Matha, Sanji Chhat Bhavan, Sher ka Panja and Bhairon Mandir. 

Migratory Birds in Hokersar Wetland

Why in News? 

The Hokersar wetland in Srinagar has transformed into a haven for numerous migratory birds, drawing the attention of locals and tourists alike. 

 Key Points 

• Winter Arrival of Migratory Birds: 
  • Many migratory birds from foreign countries flock to Hokersar wetland during winter, making it a popular destination. 
  • The wetland serves as a crucial stopover along the Central Asian Flyway, providing food, shelter, and breeding grounds for avian travelers. 
• Ideal Habitat for Birds: 
  • Hokersar’s rich flora and diverse water bodies make it a perfect refuge for species like the Siberian crane, bar-headed goose, and various ducks. 
• Conservation Efforts: 
  • Local authorities and conservation groups are working to protect Hokersar from threats like pollution and encroachment. 
  • Initiatives such as habitat restoration and proactive water management are vital to maintaining the wetland’s ecological health. 
  • The Forest Protection Force has been deployed to ensure the safety of the birds and prevent poaching. 

 Hokersar Wetland 

• Location: 
  • The Hokersar wetland, a Ramsar site, is situated in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. It is also known as the ‘Queen Wetland of Kashmir’. 
• Geographic Setting: 
  • It is a natural, perennial wetland that is part of the Jhelum basin and is located in the northwest Himalayan biogeographic province of Kashmir, at the foot of the snow-draped Pir Panjal range. 
• Water Source: 
  • The wetland receives water from the Doodhganga River, a tributary of the Jhelum. 
• Flora and Fauna: 
  • It is home to the last remaining reedbeds of Kashmir and serves as a critical pathway for 68 waterfowl species. 
  • These birds, migrating from regions like Siberia, China, Central Asia, and Europe, include species such as the little cormorant, common shelduck, large egret, and great crested grebe. 
  • The wetland is vital for local biodiversity, offering food sources, spawning grounds, and nurseries for fish, along with breeding habitats for various species.