DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 28th July 2026

Art & Culture

Why in News?

The Undavalli Caves in Andhra Pradesh recently hosted the Telugu Mahotsavam, a cultural festival celebrating Telugu language, literature, and heritage. The event renewed attention on one of South India’s finest examples of ancient rock-cut architecture and its historical significance. 

About Undavalli Caves

• Location: Undavalli village, Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh, on the banks of the Krishna River, near Vijayawada. 
• Period: Built between the 4th and 5th centuries CE. 
• Dynastic Association: Primarily associated with the Vishnukundina dynasty, with architectural influences of the Gupta period. 
• Material: Carved out of solid sandstone on a hillside. 
• Protected as a Monument of National Importance by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). 

Architectural & Cultural Significance

• A four-storeyed rock-cut cave complex showcasing early Gupta-style architecture. 
• Originally served as a Buddhist-Jain monastic complex, later transformed into a Hindu temple, reflecting religious continuity and syncretism. 
• Houses a 5-metre-long monolithic reclining image of Lord Vishnu (Anantasayana), one of its most distinctive features. 
• The caves also contain sculptures of Brahma, Shiva, Vishnu, lions, elephants, and ornate pillars, demonstrating advanced rock-cut craftsmanship. 

UPSC Prelims Focus

• Remember the location (Krishna River, Guntur district), Vishnukundina association, and Gupta-style rock-cut architecture. 
• Distinguish Undavalli Caves from other rock-cut sites such as Ajanta, Ellora, Udayagiri, Badami, and Elephanta based on dynasty, religion, architectural style, and rock type. 
• UPSC frequently asks about rock-cut cave architecture, Monuments of National Importance, dynastic patronage, and Buddhist–Jain–Hindu religious transitions. 

Source/Reference:

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/telugu-mahotsavam-begins-with-a-celebration-of-literature-and-heritage/article71266951.ece#google_vignette

Art & Culture

Why in News?

The Tripura Sarinda, a traditional bowed string musical instrument of Tripura’s indigenous communities, was showcased at the National Handicrafts Exhibition after recently receiving the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. The recognition aims to preserve the state’s rich tribal musical heritage while enhancing livelihood opportunities for traditional artisans. 

About Tripura Sarinda

• Sarinda is a traditional bowed string instrument deeply associated with the tribal communities of Tripura. 
• It is locally known as Sarinda Uakhrap. 
• The instrument is hand-carved from a single block of wood with a hollow resonating chamber. 
• The resonator is covered with animal skin, while the strings are traditionally made of animal gut, Muga silk thread, or metal. 
• It is played using a horsehair bow and produces a deep, resonant sound. 
• The instrument is widely used during folk songs, dances, religious rituals, and cultural ceremonies. 

GI Tag & Significance

• GI Registration: Awarded in 2026 under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. 
• The GI status protects the instrument’s authenticity, preserves traditional craftsmanship, and improves market access for artisans. 
• With this recognition, Tripura now has four GI-tagged products: 
  • Tripura Queen Pineapple 
  • Risa & Pachra (Rignai) 
  • Matabari Peda 
  • Tripura Sarinda. 

UPSC Prelims Focus

• Remember that Tripura Sarinda is a bowed string instrument, unlike Santur (struck string), Shehnai (wind), or Tabla (percussion). 
• Link it with GI tags, tribal folk traditions, and India’s intangible cultural heritage. 
• UPSC frequently asks questions on traditional musical instruments, state-wise GI-tagged products, and the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. 

Source/Reference:

https://tripuratimes.com/ttimes/tripura-artisan-showcases-gi-tagged-sarinda-at-national-handicrafts-exhibition-39758.html

Science & Technology / Defence

Why in News?

The Kheybar Shekan missile was widely discussed following its reported deployment by Iran during recent regional tensions in West Asia. The missile has drawn global attention due to its high precision, solid-fuel propulsion, and its role in strengthening Iran’s indigenous missile capabilities.

About Kheybar Shekan Missile

• Country: Iran. 
• Developed by: Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Aerospace Force. 
• Type: Medium-Range Ballistic Missile (MRBM). 
• Unveiled: 2022. 
• Range: Approximately 1,450 km. 
• Propulsion: Solid-fuel, enabling quicker launch and easier storage than liquid-fuel missiles. 
• Warhead: Equipped with a maneuverable re-entry vehicle (MaRV) designed to enhance precision and improve penetration against missile defence systems.

Key Features

• High-precision guidance system with improved terminal accuracy. 
• Road-mobile launcher enhances survivability and operational flexibility. 
• Reduced launch preparation time due to solid-fuel technology. 
• Designed to strike strategic military targets across West Asia. 
• Represents an important component of Iran’s indigenous missile programme. 

UPSC Prelims Focus

• Remember that Kheybar Shekan is a Medium-Range Ballistic Missile (MRBM) using solid-fuel propulsion. 
• Differentiate ballistic missiles (which follow a ballistic trajectory after the boost phase) from cruise missiles (which are continuously powered and fly at lower altitudes). 
• Link the missile with Iran’s indigenous defence programme, missile proliferation, and West Asian geopolitics. UPSC frequently asks conceptual questions on missile classifications (SRBM, MRBM, IRBM, ICBM), solid vs. liquid fuel, and strategic defence technologies. 

Source/Reference:

https://www.wsj.com/world/middle-east/iran-kheibar-shekan-missile-5776a6e4

Science & Technology

Why in News?

Recently, INSAT-3DR satellite images released by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) showed cloud cover over nearly two-thirds of India as the southwest monsoon became highly active. The satellite data enabled real-time monitoring of cloud systems, rainfall intensity, and storm development, improving weather forecasting and disaster preparedness. 

About INSAT-3DR

• INSAT-3DR (Indian National Satellite-3D Repeat) is an advanced geostationary meteorological satellite. 
• Developed by: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). 
• Operated by: India Meteorological Department (IMD). 
• Launched: 8 September 2016 aboard GSLV-F05 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota. 
• It is the follow-on mission to INSAT-3D, strengthening India’s operational weather observation capabilities. 

Key Features

• Orbit: Geostationary orbit at 74° East. 
• Major Payloads: 
  • 6-channel Multispectral Imager – monitors clouds, cyclones, land and ocean surfaces. 
  • 19-channel Atmospheric Sounder – measures vertical profiles of temperature and humidity. 
  • Data Relay Transponder (DRT) – collects meteorological and hydrological data from remote stations. 
  • Satellite-Aided Search and Rescue (SAS&R) – supports distress alert detection under the COSPAS-SARSAT programme. 
• Provides weather updates every 15 minutes for forecasting and nowcasting. 

UPSC Prelims Focus

• Remember that INSAT-3DR is a geostationary meteorological satellite, not a remote sensing satellite. 
• Differentiate INSAT-3DR from INSAT-3DS (launched in 2024 as the next-generation follow-on mission) and SCATSAT-1 (wind vector/ocean observations). 
• Link INSAT-3DR with cyclone tracking, monsoon monitoring, cloud-top temperature measurement, nowcasting, and disaster early warning systems. UPSC frequently asks about satellite missions, payloads, launch vehicles, and their applications. 

Source/Reference:

https://www.indiatoday.in/science/story/isro-satellite-images-india-cloud-cover-insat-monsoon-imd-2026-rain-science-news-2951126-2026-07-19

International Relations

Why in News?

India hosted the 60th Anniversary Conference of the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) in New Delhi, where External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar emphasized the need for inclusive, transparent, and modern global trade laws to support emerging technologies, digital commerce, and sustainable economic growth. The conference highlighted India’s growing role in shaping international commercial law.

About UNCITRAL

• Full Form: United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL). 
• Established: 1966 by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). 
• Headquarters/Secretariat: Vienna, Austria (with an office in New York). 
• Nature: Core legal body of the UN for the harmonisation and modernization of international trade law. 
• Membership: 70 Member States, elected by the UN General Assembly for six-year terms, ensuring equitable geographical representation. (uncitral.un.org) 

Objectives & Functions

• Promote uniformity and predictability in international commercial transactions. 
• Prepare and update: 
  • Model Laws 
  • Conventions 
  • Legislative Guides 
  • Rules and Technical Assistance 
• Covers areas such as: 
  • International sale of goods 
  • Arbitration and mediation 
  • Electronic commerce 
  • Insolvency law 
  • Public procurement 
  • Investor–State dispute settlement (ISDS) 
  • Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). 

Major UNCITRAL Instruments

• UNCITRAL Model Law on International Commercial Arbitration (1985). 
• United Nations Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods (CISG), 1980. 
• Model Law on Electronic Commerce (1996). 
• Model Law on Cross-Border Insolvency (1997). 

UPSC Prelims Focus

• Remember that UNCITRAL is a legal body of the UN, not a dispute settlement forum like the WTO Dispute Settlement Body or the International Court of Justice (ICJ). 
• Differentiate UNCITRAL from UNCTAD (trade and development), WTO (global trade rules), and ICSID (investment dispute settlement). 
• UPSC frequently asks about UN bodies, their year of establishment, headquarters, functions, and important international legal instruments associated with them. 

Source/Reference:

https://ddnews.gov.in/en/eam-jaishankar-calls-for-inclusive-global-trade-laws-as-india-hosts-uncitrals-60th-anniversary-conference/

History & Art and Culture

Why in News?

Sarnath, one of Buddhism’s holiest pilgrimage centres, was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, becoming India’s 45th UNESCO World Heritage Site. The inscription was approved during the 48th Session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in Busan, South Korea, recognizing its outstanding universal value as the site of Buddha’s first sermon. 

About Sarnath

• Location: Near Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, at the confluence region of the Ganga and Varuna rivers. 
• Ancient name: Isipatana (Rishipattana) or Mrigadava (Deer Park). 
• It is the place where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon (Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta) after attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, thereby setting in motion the Dharmachakra (Wheel of Dharma). 
• It is one of the four principal Buddhist pilgrimage sites, along with Lumbini, Bodh Gaya, and Kushinagar. 

Major Monuments

• Dhamek Stupa – Marks the site of the First Sermon. 
• Dharmarajika Stupa – Built by Emperor Ashoka (later damaged). 
• Ashokan Pillar – The Lion Capital serves as the National Emblem of India. 
• Mulagandha Kuti Vihara – Modern Buddhist temple. 
• Sarnath Archaeological Museum – Houses the original Lion Capital and important Buddhist sculptures. 

UPSC Prelims Focus

• Remember that Sarnath is where Buddha delivered his First Sermon and founded the Buddhist Sangha, unlike Bodh Gaya (Enlightenment), Lumbini (Birth), and Kushinagar (Mahaparinirvana). 
• Associate Sarnath with Mauryan art, particularly the Lion Capital, India’s National Emblem, and the Ashoka Chakra on the National Flag. 
• UPSC frequently asks about Buddhist pilgrimage sites, Ashokan monuments, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the Buddhist Circuit. 

Source/Reference:

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2289399&reg=48&lang=2

International Relations

Why in News?

At the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting held in Manila, Philippines, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar reiterated India’s policy of zero tolerance against terrorism, called for choking terror financing, and stressed the need for a rules-based maritime order with safe and unimpeded international waterways in accordance with UNCLOS. 

About the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF)

• Established: 1994. 
• Nature: The oldest and largest ASEAN-led multilateral security dialogue in the Asia-Pacific and Indo-Pacific regions. 
• Objective: Promote dialogue, confidence-building, preventive diplomacy, and cooperation on political and security issues. 
• Chair: The ASEAN Chair hosts and chairs the ARF annually. 
• Membership: 27 participants, comprising: 
  • 10 ASEAN Member States 
  • 10 ASEAN Dialogue Partners (including India, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Russia, Canada, and the EU) 
  • 7 other participants (Bangladesh, DPRK, Mongolia, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Sri Lanka, and Timor-Leste). 

Key Areas of Cooperation

• Counter-terrorism and transnational crime 
• Maritime security 
• Cybersecurity 
• Non-proliferation and disarmament 
• Disaster relief and humanitarian assistance 
• Peacekeeping operations 
• Preventive diplomacy and confidence-building measures 

UPSC Prelims Focus

• Remember that the ARF was established in 1994 and is ASEAN’s principal security dialogue mechanism, unlike the East Asia Summit (EAS), which is a leaders’ summit established in 2005. 
• Differentiate ARF, EAS, ASEAN+3, and ADMM-Plus based on membership, objectives, and level of participation. 
• Link ARF with India’s Act East Policy, Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), ASEAN Centrality, and UNCLOS. UPSC frequently asks about ASEAN-led institutions, their establishment years, membership, and security mandates. 

Source/Reference:

https://ddnews.gov.in/en/eam-jaishankar-calls-for-zero-tolerance-against-terrorism-at-33rd-asean-regional-forum-ministerial-meeting-in-manila/

Geography and International Relations

Why in News?

India and Tanzania recently reviewed their bilateral relations across trade, defence, maritime security, health, education, digital technology, and capacity building. The discussions reaffirmed the growing strategic partnership between the two countries under India’s engagement with Africa and the Global South. 

About Tanzania

• Location: East Africa, on the Indian Ocean coast. 
• Capital: Dodoma (administrative); Dar es Salaam is the principal commercial city and major port. 
• Formation: Created in 1964 through the union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar. 
• Neighbouring Countries: Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo (across Lake Tanganyika), Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique. 
• Highest Peak: Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895 m) – Africa’s highest mountain. 
• Major Lakes: Lake Victoria, Lake Tanganyika, and Lake Nyasa (Lake Malawi). 
• Major National Parks: Serengeti National Park, Ruaha National Park, and Nyerere National Park. 
• Official Languages: Swahili (Kiswahili) and English. 
• Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). 

India–Tanzania Relations

• India and Tanzania enjoy long-standing diplomatic ties based on South-South Cooperation, anti-colonial solidarity, and development partnership. 
• Tanzania is an important partner in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and a key member of the East African Community (EAC). 
• Major areas of cooperation include: 
  • Defence and maritime security 
  • Trade and investment 
  • Healthcare and pharmaceuticals 
  • Agriculture 
  • Capacity building under ITEC 
  • Digital Public Infrastructure and education. 

UPSC Prelims Focus

• Remember that Tanzania was formed by the merger of Tanganyika and Zanzibar (1964). 
• Locate Mount Kilimanjaro, Lake Victoria, and Lake Tanganyika on the map, and identify Tanzania’s Indian Ocean coastline. 
• Link Tanzania with India’s Africa policy, the Western Indian Ocean, East African Community (EAC), and Indian Ocean maritime security. UPSC frequently asks map-based questions on African countries, capitals, lakes, mountain peaks, and regional organizations. 

Source/Reference:

https://newsonair.gov.in/india-and-tanzania-review-bilateral-ties-across-diverse-sectors/

GS II – International Relations / GS III – Economy
Trade Tariffs, Bilateral Trade Relations, and Economic Diplomacy

Introduction

The U.S. 10% tariff on Indian imports under Section 301, linked to forced-labour concerns, raises questions about penalising countries for third-party trade. Though India secured a reduction from the proposed 12.5% tariff, uncertainty remains due to other U.S. investigations. India should pursue strategic trade negotiations without allowing unpredictable tariff policies to dictate its choices.

Understanding the U.S. Tariff Move

Context: Supreme Court Blow to Trade Deals

• February 2026: U.S. Supreme Court decision undermined U.S. efforts to secure trade deals.
• Previous Threat: High reciprocal tariffs removed.
• Temporary Tariffs: Trump’s 10% tariff on all countries expired after 150 days; had no deal-specific benefits.

Section 301 “Forced Labour” Tariffs

• Permanent Nature: More enduring than temporary tariffs.
• Deal-Based Benefits: EU and Taiwan face total 10%; India faces base tariff + 10%. Japan, South Korea, Switzerland have similar benefits with deals in progress.
• Purpose: Inconsistent with stopping forced labour (tariffs not applied equally); includes product-wise exemptions and country-wise quotas.

Inconsistencies

• Penalising Third-Party Trade: India not accused of forced labour, yet penalized because others have been.
• Not “World Police”: U.S. recently told court it didn’t want to act as “world police,” yet penalizes others for third-party issues.

India’s Response and Options

Reduction in Tariff Rate

• Proposed: 12.5% tariffs.
• Final: Reduced to 10% (same as or better than competitors).
• Action Taken: Issued notification banning import of goods made using forced labour.
• Enforcement Challenge: Requires Indian officials to investigate labour conditions in countries like China and Malaysia.

Ongoing and Future Uncertainty

• Section 301 Investigation on Excess Capacity: Yet to play out; could result in additional tariffs.
• Trade Deal Premise: Highly unlikely India will accept a deal until excess capacity tariffs are clear.

Strategic Caution

• Experience: U.S. tariff landscape can change radically even after a deal is signed.
• Recommendation: India should not be pushed into a trade deal by these tariffs.

Strengths of India’s Position

• Diplomatic Agility: Successfully reduced tariffs from 12.5% to 10% through a simple notification.
• Principled Stand: Refusing to be pushed into a deal until all tariff uncertainties are resolved.
• Legal and Economic Consistency: Highlighting the inconsistency of penalizing countries not accused of forced labour.

Risks

• Enforcement Infeasibility: Indian officials investigating labour conditions in China/Malaysia is politically and practically difficult.
• Uncertainty: Pending excess capacity investigation creates long-term trade unpredictability.
• Economic Cost: 10% tariff on U.S. imports of Indian goods could affect exports.
• Diplomatic Pressure: Potential isolation if other countries sign deals.

Way Forward

Short-Term Strategy

• Maintain Current Stand: Do not commit to a trade deal until excess capacity tariffs are clear.
• Strengthen Enforcement: Develop credible mechanisms for the forced labour import ban.
• Engage Diplomatically: Use WTO and bilateral channels to question the consistency of U.S. tariffs.

Long-Term Strategy

• Diversify Markets: Reduce dependence on the U.S. market by strengthening trade with other partners (e.g., EU, ASEAN, Africa).
• Domestic Manufacturing: Boost competitiveness through PLI schemes and infrastructure.
• Trade Agreement Caution: Learn from history; ensure any future U.S. deal includes dispute resolution and tariff predictability.

Policy Recommendations

• Evidence-Based Negotiations: Document and present India’s strong track record on labour rights and trade compliance.
• Support Exporters: Mitigate tariff impact through export incentives and market diversification support.
• Legal Recourse: Explore WTO dispute settlement if tariffs are found discriminatory or inconsistent.

Conclusion

The U.S. Section 301 tariffs raise concerns about unfair trade pressure, especially as India was not accused of forced labour. While reducing the tariff from 12.5% to 10% is a diplomatic gain, further investigations create uncertainty. India should avoid rushed deals and pursue a cautious strategy focused on market diversification and domestic manufacturing.

Practice Question

1. The U.S. Section 301 tariffs on forced labour appear designed to push India towards a trade deal, but India should resist until all uncertainties are resolved. Critically examine India’s strategic options in response to U.S. tariffs. (250 words, 15 marks)

https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/forced-labour-farce-on-india-and-the-uss-new-tariffs/article71272646.ece#google_vignette

GS III – Environment / GS II – Governance
Biodiversity Conservation, Wildlife Protection, and International Cooperation

Introduction

India hosts nearly 70% of the world’s wild tigers, with 3,682 tigers (2022) across 58 tiger reserves. Supported by the NTCA, M-STrIPES, AI-based monitoring, and community participation, India has strengthened tiger conservation. Initiatives like the International Big Cat Alliance further demonstrate its global leadership in wildlife conservation.

India’s Tiger Population and Conservation Framework

Tiger Population Growth

• 2006: ~1,411 tigers → 2022: 3,682 tigers – more than doubled
• Global Share: ~70% of the world’s wild tigers
• Survey Scale: Covered 20 States, 6.41 lakh km on foot (2022)
• Global Context: Tigers increased from ~3,200 (2010) to ~5,711 globally – ~78% increase

Governance Architecture

• Project Tiger (1973): Centrally Sponsored Scheme; 58 reserves across 18 States; 84,500 sq km (2.56% of India’s area)
• National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA): Statutory body; oversees Project Tiger; chaired by Union Environment Minister
• Tiger Task Force (2006): Led to amendments in Wildlife Protection Act, 1972; established NTCA and Wildlife Crime Control Bureau
• Tiger Conservation Plans: Mandatory for each reserve (Section 38 V(3) of WPA, 1972); include Core and Buffer areas

Key Conservation Concepts

• Landscape-Based Approach: Core Area (Critical Tiger Habitat) + Buffer Area (sustainable livelihoods)
• Wildlife Corridors: Connect reserves for genetic flow and movement
• Conservation Assured Tiger Standards (CA|TS): Global certification; 23 Indian reserves accredited

Technology and Monitoring Innovations

All India Tiger Estimation (AITE)

• Conducted every 4 years by NTCA and Wildlife Institute of India
• World’s Largest Biodiversity Survey: Also includes co-predators and prey
• Guinness World Record: Largest camera trap wildlife survey

Digital Tools

• M-STrIPES (Monitoring System for Tigers): GPS, GPRS, remote sensing; central database
• CaTRAT (Camera Trap Data Repository and Analysis Tool): AI-based species classification
• ExtractCompare: Identifies individual tigers by stripe patterns

Management Effectiveness Evaluation (MEE)

• Assesses reserve management: Planning, protection, processes, outcomes
• 2022 Assessment: 51 reserves evaluated; 12 rated “Excellent”; average score 78%
• Impact: Identifies gaps; guides policy and resource allocation

Global Leadership and Cooperation

International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

• Established: March 2024; headquarters in India
• Members: 95 countries; covers 7 big cats (tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar, puma)
• Goal: Global cooperation for big cat conservation

Global Tiger Forum (GTF)

• Founded: 1994; headquartered in New Delhi
• Members: 13 tiger range countries
• Role: Common approach to tiger conservation; knowledge sharing; capacity building

Bilateral and Regional Partnerships

• Nepal & Bhutan: Transboundary conservation
• Myanmar: Combating timber trafficking
• Russia: Camera trap data management; Indo-Russia Working Sub-Group
• China: Bilateral cooperation on tiger conservation
• Botswana, South Africa, Namibia, Kenya, Cambodia, Guatemala: Wildlife conservation and management

Integrated Tiger Habitat Conservation Programme (ITHCP)

• IUCN flagship initiative; funded by German Government (KfW)
• Focus: Science-based projects in Asian tiger landscapes

Challenges

• Habitat Fragmentation: Corridors under pressure from infrastructure
• Human-Wildlife Conflict: Increasing in fringe areas
• Poaching and Trafficking: Transnational networks; demand for tiger parts
• Climate Change: Impacts on forests and prey base
• Resource Constraints: Frontline staff capacity and funding

Way Forward

• Secure Corridors: Integrate in infrastructure planning; restore degraded corridors
• Conflict Mitigation: Rapid response teams; community awareness; insurance
• Anti-Poaching: Strengthen Wildlife Crime Control Bureau; regional intelligence sharing
• Climate Adaptation: Include climate resilience in Tiger Conservation Plans
• Community Engagement: Sustainable livelihoods; eco-tourism; benefit sharing
• Technology: Expand AI and real-time monitoring; satellite-based tracking

Conclusion

India’s tiger conservation is a global success story, with tiger numbers rising from 1,411 (2006) to 3,682 (2022). Despite strong institutional and technological support, habitat fragmentation, human-wildlife conflict, and climate change remain challenges. Securing wildlife corridors, preventing poaching, and strengthening community participation are crucial for long-term conservation.

Practice Question

1. India’s tiger conservation success, with 70% of global wild tigers, reflects a robust model of science-based governance, technology integration, and global cooperation. Critically examine the achievements and challenges of India’s tiger conservation efforts. (250 words, 15 marks)

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2290233&reg=3&lang=1