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Home/upsc: mineral & energy resources

Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions

Kiran Srivastava
  • 2
Kiran SrivastavaBegginer
Asked: July 10, 2024In:
  • 2

In recent decades, the Arctic region has gained immense geopolitical significance. Remark.

upsc: mineral & energy resources
  1. Jai Agarwal
    Jai Agarwal Learner

    The Arctic region, situated at the Earth's northernmost extremity, comprises the Arctic Ocean and surrounding territories, spanning across several northern nations, including Canada, Russia, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark (Greenland), Iceland, and the United States (Alaska). With climate change taRead more

    The Arctic region, situated at the Earth’s northernmost extremity, comprises the Arctic Ocean and surrounding territories, spanning across several northern nations, including Canada, Russia, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark (Greenland), Iceland, and the United States (Alaska). With climate change taking its toll and resulting in the disappearance of 95% of the Arctic’s oldest and thickest ice, the region has become a focal point in the geopolitical arena.

    Increased Geopolitical Significance of Arctic Region and the Associated Reasons:

    • Resource Exploration: The thawing of Arctic ice has facilitated access to previously inaccessible areas rich in a diverse range of resources, including oil, natural gas, minerals, and fish stocks. This newfound accessibility has attracted countries and corporations eager to secure their energy and resource supplies, intensifying the geopolitical competition. For instance,
      • The Arctic region boasts substantial deposits of coal, gypsum, diamonds, zinc, lead, placer gold, and quartz.
      • Greenland, a key Arctic territory, alone possesses approximately a quarter of the world’s rare earth reserves.
      • The Arctic is also home to a wealth of unexplored hydrocarbon resources, accounting for an estimated 30% of the world’s undiscovered natural gas. This vast energy potential has drawn significant interest from energy-hungry nations and companies.
    • New Shipping Routes: The recession of Arctic ice has introduced more direct shipping routes, like the Northern Sea Route, connecting Europe and Asia, which are approximately 30% to 40% shorter than the routes utilizing the Suez Canal. This economic opportunity has sparked discussions about sovereignty and control over these routes, contributing to geopolitical considerations.
    • Territorial Claims: Arctic nations, such as Russia, Canada, Denmark, and Norway, have asserted territorial claims in the region, and in some cases, overlapping claims have resulted in disputes and heightened geopolitical tensions. For instance, Canada and Denmark have been embroiled in a dispute over the ownership of Hans Island, a small yet resource-rich Arctic island.
    • Military Presence: Several Arctic nations have strengthened their military presence in the region to safeguard their interests and assert sovereignty, a development that raises concerns about potential conflicts and intensifies geopolitical rivalries.
      • For example, Russia has undertaken the modernization of its Arctic military infrastructure, reopening Cold War-era bases, and deploying advanced weaponry, actions that have generated concerns about militarization and heightened tensions with NATO countries.
    • Geopolitical Alliances: The Arctic Council, originally established as a platform for Arctic nations, has now become a pivotal arena for diplomatic discourse.
      • Non-Arctic nations like China and India have the observer status in the Council signaling their ambitions to extend influence, paralleling the escalating geopolitical prominence of the region.
      • Additionally, China’s 2018 Arctic policy, with its aim to be acknowledged as a “Near Arctic State,” epitomizes the evolving geopolitical landscape, aligning with the increased strategic value of the Arctic.
    • Indigenous Rights: Approximately 4 million individuals inhabit the Arctic, with about 2 million of them being of Russian descent, and roughly 500,000 belonging to indigenous populations. Some of these indigenous communities, like the Inuit in Canada and the Sami in Norway within the Arctic, are actively advocating for their rights and interests, which contributes to the intricacy of the geopolitical situation. Their engagement plays a crucial role in shaping policies and choices concerning the region.
    • Environmental Concerns: The evolving Arctic climate carries far-reaching global implications, influencing sea levels and weather patterns. Consequently, the environmental stability of the region assumes paramount importance for the overall global climate and security. As an illustration, Arctic sea ice serves as a vast reflective surface at the Earth’s northernmost point, deflecting a portion of the sun’s rays back into space, thereby contributing to the maintenance of a stable global temperature.

    As the Arctic continues to undergo transformation, it becomes increasingly vital for nations to engage in cooperative diplomacy, manage disputes peacefully, and safeguard the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem. The future of the Arctic will not only shape global geopolitics but also impact the environment and livelihoods of those who call it home.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 10, 2024In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Define petroleum refineries and their role in converting crude oil into usable products. State the observation that in many developing countries, refineries are often situated far from oil-producing regions. Briefly introduce the implications of this geographical disconnect. Body Section 1: Benefits ...

upsc: mineral & energy resources
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction Petroleum is a vital natural resource that is extracted and refined into various fuels. In many developing countries, petroleum refineries are often situated far from crude oil-producing regions. This geographical disconnect presents several implications for economic stabilRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    Petroleum is a vital natural resource that is extracted and refined into various fuels. In many developing countries, petroleum refineries are often situated far from crude oil-producing regions. This geographical disconnect presents several implications for economic stability and environmental considerations.

    Benefits of Refineries Near Oil Resources

    Refineries positioned close to crude oil sources enjoy numerous advantages:

    • Reduced Transportation Costs: Proximity to oil sources minimizes transportation expenses, which can lead to lower final product prices and increased profitability (World Bank, 2020).
    • Efficient Infrastructure Access: Being near transportation networks such as pipelines and railways enhances logistical efficiency, facilitating quicker product delivery to markets.
    • Skilled Labor Availability: Locations with a skilled workforce can reduce labor costs and improve operational efficiency (International Energy Agency, 2019).
    • Support Services Accessibility: Refineries benefit from nearby engineering, maintenance, and repair services, further driving down operational costs.
    • Economic Benefits: Local refineries stimulate job creation, boost tax revenues, and foster local business growth, contributing to regional economic development.

    Drawbacks of Refineries Away from Oil Resources

    Conversely, refineries located far from crude oil sources face significant challenges:

    • Increased Transportation Costs: Long-distance transportation raises crude oil delivery expenses, which can subsequently inflate petroleum product prices (Energy Information Administration, 2021).
    • Dependence on Imports: Countries with distant refineries may rely on imports, heightening vulnerability to supply disruptions and global price volatility.
    • Environmental Risks: Transporting crude oil over long distances increases the risk of oil spills and environmental disasters, posing threats to ecosystems and human health (Environmental Protection Agency, 2020).
    • Limited Local Economic Benefits: Refineries situated far from oil fields may not significantly contribute to local economies or job creation.
    • Energy Security Concerns: Reliance on imported petroleum products raises energy security issues, particularly in politically unstable regions.

    Conclusion

    The location of petroleum refineries in developing countries, often distant from crude oil-producing areas, has profound implications. These include increased costs, reliance on imports, environmental risks, and limited local economic benefits. Policymakers must address these challenges to ensure sustainable energy supply chains and enhance energy security.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 9, 2024In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Define coal mining and its historical significance in energy production. State the dual nature of coal mining: essential for development but associated with environmental drawbacks. Body Section 1: Inevitability of Coal Mining Subsection 1: Energy Security and Needs Discuss coal’s role in ...

upsc: mineral & energy resources
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction Coal mining has been a cornerstone of global energy production for centuries. However, it comes with significant environmental drawbacks. This essay explores the duality of coal mining's role in development and its associated impacts. Inevitability of Coal Mining Energy SecRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    Coal mining has been a cornerstone of global energy production for centuries. However, it comes with significant environmental drawbacks. This essay explores the duality of coal mining’s role in development and its associated impacts.

    Inevitability of Coal Mining

    Energy Security and Needs

    Coal is the most abundant fossil fuel, providing a reliable and affordable energy source. It is essential for economic growth and development, particularly in emerging economies where energy demand is skyrocketing. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), coal accounted for about 37% of global electricity generation in 2020, highlighting its critical role in energy security (IEA, 2021).

    Job Creation

    The coal industry employs millions globally, creating jobs not only in mining but also in transportation and ancillary services. In India alone, the coal sector provides direct employment to over 1 million people, supporting local economies (Ministry of Coal, India).

    Infrastructure Development

    Coal mining necessitates the development of transportation infrastructure, such as railways and roads, which can enhance regional development. Improved infrastructure facilitates economic growth and connectivity, benefiting various sectors.

    Revenue Generation

    Coal mining generates substantial revenue for governments through taxes and royalties. This income can fund social welfare programs, education, and healthcare, contributing to overall societal development (World Bank, 2019).

    Issues Persistent with Coal Mining

    Environmental Impacts

    The environmental repercussions of coal mining are profound. It contributes to air and water pollution, soil degradation, and significant greenhouse gas emissions. These issues can lead to health problems and loss of biodiversity (EPA, 2020).

    Health Hazards

    Coal mining poses severe health risks, including respiratory diseases for miners and communities near coal-fired power plants. The exposure to coal dust can lead to black lung disease, severely affecting miners’ quality of life.

    Resource Depletion and Climate Change

    As a non-renewable resource, coal is finite. Its continued use contributes to climate change, making it an unsustainable energy option. Transitioning to renewable energy sources is essential for long-term sustainability.

    Conclusion

    While coal mining remains critical for development, its environmental and health impacts are significant. To achieve sustainable development, there must be an investment in cleaner coal technologies and a transition to renewable energy sources. Balancing the benefits of coal with its costs is crucial for future generations.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 9, 2024In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Overview: Briefly introduce India’s interest in the Arctic region, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of this interest. Key Factors: Mention that the interest is driven by economic, strategic, scientific, and diplomatic factors. 2. Economic Factors A. Resource Exploration Fact: The Arctic ...

upsc: mineral & energy resources
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction India's keen interest in the Arctic region stems from a blend of economic, strategic, scientific, and diplomatic motivations. The potential for resource exploration, emerging trade routes, climate change implications, and opportunities for scientific research make the ArctiRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    India’s keen interest in the Arctic region stems from a blend of economic, strategic, scientific, and diplomatic motivations. The potential for resource exploration, emerging trade routes, climate change implications, and opportunities for scientific research make the Arctic an attractive area for India.

    India’s Interest in the Arctic Region

    1. Resource Exploration

    • Fact: The Arctic is estimated to hold significant reserves of oil, gas, minerals, and rare earth elements. India seeks to explore these resources to meet its growing energy demands and reduce reliance on foreign imports.

    2. Trade Routes

    • Fact: The melting of Arctic ice is opening new trade routes that are shorter and more cost-effective than traditional shipping lanes. India views these emerging corridors as opportunities to enhance trade between Asia, Europe, and North America.

    3. Climate Change

    • Fact: The melting Arctic ice poses significant challenges for India, which is vulnerable to climate change impacts, including rising sea levels and altered monsoon patterns. Engaging with the region is crucial for understanding these global changes.

    4. Scientific Research

    • Fact: India aims to conduct scientific research in the Arctic to study its unique ecosystems and understand the broader implications of climate change. This research is vital for formulating effective environmental policies.

    5. Diplomacy

    • Fact: India is eager to enhance its global diplomatic presence, and its interest in the Arctic is a strategic move to engage with other Arctic nations and participate in international dialogues concerning the region.

    Conclusion

    India’s interest in the Arctic region is driven by a multifaceted approach encompassing economic, strategic, scientific, and diplomatic factors. As India seeks to establish a foothold in this crucial area, its actions will significantly impact its role in global geopolitics and environmental stewardship in the years to come.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 10, 2024In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Context: Briefly introduce the Arctic oil discovery and its significance. Thesis Statement: State that the discovery has both economic benefits and environmental risks. Body 1. Positive Economic Implications Increased Oil Supply Fact: The Arctic is estimated to hold about 90 billion barrels ...

upsc: mineral & energy resources
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction The discovery of oil in the Arctic Sea presents both significant economic opportunities and serious environmental concerns. While the Arctic holds vast reserves—estimated at about 84% offshore—it is essential to weigh the potential economic benefits against the environmentaRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    The discovery of oil in the Arctic Sea presents both significant economic opportunities and serious environmental concerns. While the Arctic holds vast reserves—estimated at about 84% offshore—it is essential to weigh the potential economic benefits against the environmental risks associated with oil extraction in this fragile ecosystem.

    Positive Implications

    Increased Oil Supply

    The Arctic region is believed to contain substantial oil reserves. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the Arctic could hold about 90 billion barrels of undiscovered oil, which could significantly boost global oil supply and potentially stabilize or reduce oil prices (USGS, 2015).

    Economic Growth

    Countries bordering the Arctic, like Russia, Canada, and Norway, stand to benefit economically from the development of oil infrastructure. This development is expected to create jobs and stimulate local economies. For instance, the Canadian government estimates that oil extraction projects could generate thousands of jobs and contribute billions to the national economy (Government of Canada, 2020).

    Diversification of Energy Sources

    Access to Arctic oil may also lead to a diversification of energy sources, lessening dependency on oil imports from politically unstable regions. This diversification enhances energy security for many countries, making their energy supply more resilient.

    Negative Implications

    Environmental Risks

    The extraction process poses severe environmental threats, including risks of oil spills and pollution. The Arctic ecosystem is particularly vulnerable; any spill could have devastating and long-lasting effects on marine life and wildlife (Environmental Protection Agency, 2021).

    Climate Change

    The extraction of fossil fuels from the Arctic contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change. As global temperatures rise, continuing to exploit these reserves may contradict efforts to curb emissions and achieve sustainability (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, 2021).

    Geopolitical Tensions

    The race for Arctic resources may heighten geopolitical tensions among Arctic nations. Disputes over territorial claims and resources could lead to conflicts, complicating international relations in the region (Council on Foreign Relations, 2022).

    Conclusion

    While the discovery of oil in the Arctic Sea holds significant economic promise, it is crucial to approach extraction responsibly to mitigate environmental damage. Sustainable practices must be prioritized to ensure that economic gains do not come at the expense of the Arctic’s fragile ecosystem.

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Dheeraj Kumar
  • 2
Dheeraj KumarBegginer
Asked: July 10, 2024In:
  • 2

Examine the environmental issues associated with oil production in these countries by looking at the geographic distribution of the main oil-producing countries.

upsc: mineral & energy resources
  1. Pranay Chopra
    Pranay Chopra Begginer

    Oil, the lifeblood of industrialized nations, has been the world's primary energy source since the mid-1950s. It fuels powering industries, heating homes, and propelling vehicles and aircraft that connect the global community. However, global oil production is highly uneven. Presently, approximatelyRead more

    Oil, the lifeblood of industrialized nations, has been the world’s primary energy source since the mid-1950s. It fuels powering industries, heating homes, and propelling vehicles and aircraft that connect the global community. However, global oil production is highly uneven. Presently, approximately 80.4% (1,241.82 billion barrels) of the world’s proven oil reserves are concentrated in OPEC Member Countries, with the majority, 67.1%, found in the Middle East.

    Geographical Distribution of Major Oil- Producing Nations:

    • Middle East: Slightly less than half of the world’s proven oil reserves are located in this region.
      • Saudi Arabia: It has second-largest proven oil reserves in the world (~20 percent). o
      • Iraq, Kuwait, Iran: Each estimated to have 25 percent of all proven oil reserves in the world. Al-Burqan oilfield (Kuwait) is the world’s second largest oil field.
      • United Arab Emirates (UAE): It ranks among the top ten oil-producing nations globally. Approximately 96% of the nation’s extensive proven oil reserves, which amount to roughly 100 billion barrels, are situated in Abu Dhabi, placing it sixth in the global rankings. o
      • Qatar: According to the Oil & Gas Journal, Qatar possesses approximately 11% of the world’s confirmed natural gas reserves and nearly 30% of the reserves found in the Middle East.
      • Oman: It stands as the most prominent oil producer in the Middle East that is not a member of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).
    • Russia: It ranks as the world’s third-largest oil producer, trailing only the United States and Saudi Arabia in production.
    • United States: As of 2023, the United States maintains its status as the foremost global producer of crude oil, a position it has maintained since 2018. Its confirmed oil reserves constitute 2% of the global aggregate.
    • Canada: It ranks third globally in terms of oil reserves and holds the position of the fourth-largest oil producer in the world.
    • Mexico: It possesses the seventeenth-largest oil reserves on a global scale, and it ranks as the fourth most significant oil producer in the Western Hemisphere, following the United States, Canada, and Venezuela.
    • Venezuela: With the world’s largest oil reserves, totaling more than 303 billion barrels, Venezuela is the fourth-largest oil producer in Latin America.
    • Brazil: In 2022, Brazil secured the ninth position in global oil production with an average daily output of slightly more than 3 million barrels.
    • United Kingdom: In 2022, the UK sustained its position as a significant oil and gas producer, contributing 0.8% to the global production. This, however, marked a nearly 11 percent decrease compared to the oil production reported in 2021.
    • African Region: As of 2022, Nigeria held the top position as Africa’s primary oil producer, with an annual oil production of approximately 69 million metric tons. Following closely were Libya, Algeria, and Angola, each surpassing the 50 million metric tons mark in oil output.

    Environmental Concerns Linked to Oil Production within the Above Nations:

    • Spills: Oil production in these nations can lead to accidental spills, releasing large quantities of crude oil into the environment, which can have devastating impacts on aquatic ecosystems, coastal areas, and local communities.
      • For instance, the Deepwater Horizon oil drilling platform in the Gulf of Mexico exploded in 2010, resulting in the largest oil spill in offshore drilling history.
    • Air Pollution: The oil industry’s operations contribute to air pollution through the release of harmful emissions, including sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, which can lead to respiratory problems and smog formation in nearby regions. For example, Gas Flares from Venezuela’s formerly blooming oil sector are causing pollution in nearby towns.
    • Water Contamination: Oil production activities can contaminate water sources, such as rivers and groundwater, posing risks to aquatic life and affecting the availability of clean water for local populations. Leaking pipelines from Venezuela’s formerly thriving oil sector are polluting a significant lake.
      • In 2013, Pennsylvania (USA) recorded 398 complaints reporting that drilling activities related to oil or natural gas had led to contamination or other impacts on private water wells.
    • Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Oil production releases significant amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere, a major greenhouse gas. This occurs due to various activities such as fossil fuel burning to generate electricity and power vehicles, as well as the operation of machinery. According to IEA, the production, transport and processing of oil and gas resulted in 5.1 billion tonnes (Gt) CO2-eq in 2022.
    • Land Degradation and Deforestation:
      • Extensive drilling and infrastructure development associated with oil production can lead to soil erosion, and diminish the quality of land for agriculture.
      • Additionally, deforestation occurs as land is cleared for drilling sites and infrastructure.
      • For instance, in the USA, more than 12 million acres of public lands are allocated for fossil fuel production.

    Some Effective Strategies for Sustainable Oil Production:

    • Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) Techniques: Implement advanced EOR methods to maximize oil extraction from existing fields while minimizing environmental impact. For example, in the United States, CO2 is injected into oil reservoirs to enhance oil recovery while sequestering carbon underground.
    • Reducing Flaring and Venting: Minimize the flaring and venting of associated gas during oil production. Norway has successfully reduced flaring emissions by more than 80% since the mid-1990s through strict regulations and the development of gas infrastructure to capture and utilize associated gas.
    • Improved Water Management: Implement efficient water management practices to reduce the environmental impact of oil production. In Canada, oil sands operators are using water recycling and advanced treatment technologies to minimize water use and reduce the release of contaminated water into the environment.
    • Biodiversity Conservation: Protect and restore natural habitats and biodiversity in oil-producing regions. For instance, Ecuador’s Yasuni National Park is an example where a portion of the country’s oil reserves is left untapped to preserve the park’s unique biodiversity.
    • Transition to Renewable Energy: Invest in renewable energy sources and technologies to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate the environmental impact of oil production. The UAE, despite being a major oil producer, is investing in solar energy projects to diversify its energy mix and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

    The geographical distribution of major oil-producing nations highlights the concentration of resources in specific regions, shaping the global energy landscape. However, environmental concerns linked to oil production raise concerns about the sustainability of this vital industry. As the world continues to rely on oil, the imperative to balance production with environmental preservation becomes increasingly urgent.

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Rajashree Shirke
  • 0
Rajashree ShirkeLearner
Asked: January 25, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Brief Overview: Introduce gulfs, bays, and lagoons as key geographical features located along coastlines. Mention their significance in terms of both natural resources and as trade hubs. Thesis Statement: State that these water bodies play an essential role ...

upsc: mineral & energy resources
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Gulfs, Bays, and Lagoons as Resources and Trade Hubs Gulfs, bays, and lagoons are critical geographical features that have historically supported human civilization through their resource-rich environments and strategic locations for trade. These bodies of water offer sheltered waters wRead more

    Model Answer

    Gulfs, Bays, and Lagoons as Resources and Trade Hubs

    Gulfs, bays, and lagoons are critical geographical features that have historically supported human civilization through their resource-rich environments and strategic locations for trade. These bodies of water offer sheltered waters with favorable currents, making them essential for both commerce and resource utilization.

    Gulfs: Economic and Strategic Importance

    1. Economic Trade Routes: Gulfs are often crucial for maritime trade due to their proximity to major waterways. For example, the Persian Gulf has been a key trade hub for centuries, facilitating spice trade in ancient times and oil trade in modern-day global commerce.
    2. Resource Richness: Gulfs, like the Gulf of Mexico, are known for their rich marine ecosystems, abundant fisheries, and resources like minerals and hydrocarbons, which are essential for both local and global economies.
    3. Strategic Locations: Some gulfs, such as the Gulf of Aden, hold strategic geopolitical importance, connecting key maritime routes and playing a vital role in international shipping.

    Bays: Natural Harbors and Biodiversity

    1. Harbors and Ports: Bays are often naturally sheltered, making them ideal locations for ports. The Bay of Bengal hosts several major ports, facilitating trade across the region.
    2. Biodiversity Hotspots: Bays like Chesapeake Bay in the United States are rich in biodiversity, supporting marine life and fisheries that contribute significantly to local economies.
    3. Tourism: Scenic bays, such as the Bay of Islands in New Zealand, attract tourists, boosting local economies through water-based recreational activities.

    Lagoons: Ecosystem Services and Economic Activities

    1. Ecosystem Support: Lagoons, such as the Great Barrier Reef Lagoon, support a variety of marine species, contributing to biodiversity and global ecological balance.
    2. Economic Activities: Lagoons, like those in the Maldives, provide vital resources for fishing and aquaculture, sustaining local economies.
    3. Tourism and Protection: Lagoons attract tourism due to their pristine environments, such as the lagoons of Bora Bora. Additionally, mangrove-lined lagoons, like those in the Sundarbans, protect coastal communities from natural disasters like storm surges and tsunamis.

    Conclusion

    Gulfs, bays, and lagoons are essential to the economic and ecological fabric of coastal regions, supporting trade, resource extraction, biodiversity, and tourism. Their management is key to achieving sustainable development and preserving their environmental and economic contributions.

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Sangeeta rathor
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Sangeeta rathorBegginer
Asked: June 27, 2024In:
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Although hydropower contributes little to India’s overall electricity generation, it is a significant global source of low-carbon energy. Talk about. (Answer in 150 words)

upsc: mineral & energy resources
  1. Gopal Sharma
    Gopal Sharma Begginer

    In 2020, hydropower supplied around 17% of global electricity generation, the third-largest source after coal and natural gas. Hydropower provides for almost half of the total low carbon energy around the world due to its highly flexible nature. It also makes a major contribution to the security ofRead more

    In 2020, hydropower supplied around 17% of global electricity generation, the third-largest source after coal and natural gas. Hydropower provides for almost half of the total low carbon energy around the world due to its highly flexible nature. It also makes a major contribution to the security of electricity systems worldwide. India ranks fifth in the world in terms of usable hydroelectric potential. It is endowed with a large hydropower potential of 1,48,700 MW of which only 29% has been exploited so far (CEA Report) against over 80% and 70% developed by the US and EU respectively. Further, the share of hydropower in the total capacity has declined from 50.36% in the 1960s to around 13% in 2018-19.

    Reasons for low share of hydropower in India are as follows:

    • Hydropower planning: Planning for hydropower development in India has generally been oriented towards individual projects and not focused on sustainable development of an entire river basin. Also, as water and water power are State subjects, the construction of Hydro Electric Projects is often delayed due to conflicts among riparian States.
      • For instance, Shahpurkandi dam project (over Ravi), Sutlej-Beas link in Punjab and the Ujh Multipurpose Hydro Electric Project in Jammu and Kashmir are stuck due to red tape and inter-state disputes.
    • Land acquisition: Problems arising in the acquisition of land for hydropower projects are leading to suspension and delays in construction activities.
      • For instance, the 2,880 MW Dibang multipurpose project in Arunachal Pradesh is long- pending since 2008 due to land acquisition issues.
    • Safety and rehabilitation issues: Construction and operation of hydropower dams in India have often led to mass protests and public outcry on the issue of safety, environment and rehabilitation, resulting in unusual delays and cost overruns.
      • For example, the Tehri dam was commissioned more than 25 years after rehabilitation and resettlement was started.
    • Financing: Financing hydropower projects by finding an optimum balance between bankability and affordability is often a challenge due to capital intensive and long gestational nature as well as weak financial situation of the power distribution sector.
    • Geological issues: Handling the unpredictable geology of the young fold Himalayas where most of the Indian hydropower potential resides is a challenge.
    • Lack of enabling infrastructure: Development of associated physical infrastructure (roads, bridges) and transmission infrastructure for power evacuation in remote areas such as the North-East region increases the cost of power affecting project viability and sustainability.

    In the recent past, the government has approved targeted measures to promote hydropower development in India such as inclusion of large hydro power projects as renewable energy sources, Hydropower Purchase Obligation (HPO) as a separate category in the non-solar renewable purchase obligation (RPO), tariff rationalization measures, budgetary support for funding enabling infrastructure development, etc.

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TeamSupreme
Asked: September 9, 2024In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction: Define the global resource crisis, linking it to increasing population, industrialization, and urbanization. Highlight oceans as underexplored resource reserves, covering two-thirds of the Earth’s surface.

upsc: mineral & energy resources
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction The vast oceans are rich in resources essential for addressing the global resource crisis. From minerals to renewable energy, these resources hold potential for sustainable development. Countries like India are actively exploring oceanic resources through initiatives like tRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    The vast oceans are rich in resources essential for addressing the global resource crisis. From minerals to renewable energy, these resources hold potential for sustainable development. Countries like India are actively exploring oceanic resources through initiatives like the Deep Ocean Mission, emphasizing sustainable practices.

    Harnessing Ocean Resources

    1. Polymetallic Nodules

    Polymetallic nodules, rich in manganese, cobalt, copper, and nickel, are crucial for manufacturing renewable energy technologies. The Clarion-Clipperton Zone, located between Hawaii and Mexico, is believed to hold significant deposits that could potentially double the supply of these metals by 2040.

    2. Renewable Ocean Energy

    Ocean energy, including tidal, wave, and thermal energy, offers sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels. For instance, India’s Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) projects aim to harness thermal gradients in oceans for power generation.

    3. Biological Resources

    Marine biodiversity provides food, pharmaceuticals, and industrial products. India’s Blue Revolution promotes sustainable aquaculture, enhancing fish production and food security.

    4. Hydrocarbon Deposits

    Offshore oil and gas reserves are critical for global energy security. The Krishna-Godavari Basin in India plays a significant role in meeting the country’s energy needs.

    5. Marine Genetic Resources

    Unique genetic materials from marine organisms are valuable for biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in India focuses on bioprospecting for bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential.

    Limitations of Ocean Resource Exploitation

    1. Environmental Impact

    Exploitation can disrupt marine ecosystems, leading to biodiversity loss. Deep-sea mining poses risks to fragile environments, highlighting the need for stringent environmental assessments.

    2. Technological Challenges

    The complexities of deep-sea exploration make resource extraction costly and technically challenging, as mining companies face significant hurdles at extreme depths.

    3. Economic Viability

    High extraction costs and uncertain returns can deter investment. Studies indicate that the economic benefits of deep-sea mining may not justify the risks involved.

    4. Regulatory Issues

    The lack of comprehensive international regulations complicates sustainable management. Disagreements among countries hinder effective governance, as seen in negotiations under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

    5. Social and Ethical Concerns

    Exploitation raises ethical issues regarding the rights of indigenous communities. Resistance from Pacific nations reflects concerns over local impacts and benefits.

    Conclusion

    Harnessing ocean resources presents both opportunities and challenges. By strengthening regulations, advancing technology, fostering international cooperation, and promoting ethical practices, we can sustainably utilize oceanic wealth. Future policies must prioritize environmental preservation and community well-being to ensure oceans remain vital for global prosperity.

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Hrithika Sundar
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Hrithika SundarBegginer
Asked: January 4, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Contextualize the importance of rare earth elements (REEs) globally. Briefly define REEs: These are a group of 17 elements that include 15 lanthanides (elements 57–71), along with scandium (Sc) and yttrium (Y). They are critical in modern technologies ...

upsc: mineral & energy resources
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Global Distribution of Rare Earth Elements (REE) Rare earth elements (REEs) are widely distributed in the Earth's crust but are not typically found in concentrated deposits. China holds the largest share, with 38% of global reserves and producing about 70% of the world's supply, particuRead more

    Model Answer

    Global Distribution of Rare Earth Elements (REE)

    Rare earth elements (REEs) are widely distributed in the Earth’s crust but are not typically found in concentrated deposits. China holds the largest share, with 38% of global reserves and producing about 70% of the world’s supply, particularly from regions like Baotou and Jiangxi (Source: Geology Reports). Vietnam (19%) and Brazil (18%) have significant reserves, but their production is lower. Other notable producers include Russia (10%), India (6%), and smaller reserves in Australia (3.5%) and the USA (1.3%) (Source: Mineral Resources of the World).

    Distribution of REE in India

    In India, monazite is the primary source of REEs. Major deposits are found in beach sands of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha. Other notable reserves are in Meghalaya and Rajasthan (Source: Indian Geological Survey).

    Economic Importance of REE

    REEs are vital in high-tech industries, especially for manufacturing permanent magnets used in electronics, electric vehicles, and renewable energy systems. They are also critical for green technology, improving energy efficiency, and miniaturization of devices (Source: Technology and Economy Journals). Additionally, cerium is used in glass polishing, and scandium is crucial in aluminum alloys for sporting goods. India’s growing demand for REEs underscores the need for increased domestic production to reduce dependence on imports (Source: Industrial Reports).

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