Mains Paper 3
The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu has urged the Prime Minister to revoke tungsten mining rights in Madurai, highlighting potential threats to the Arittapatti biodiversity heritage site.
About Arittapatti Biodiversity Heritage Site:
| AspectDetailsSignificanceFirst Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS) in Tamil Nadu; recognized for its ecological and historical importance.Geological FeaturesSurrounded by seven hillocks (inselbergs) serving as a watershed; feeds 72 lakes, 200 natural springs, and 3 check dams.Historic StructuresIncludes the Anaikondan tank, constructed during the Pandyan dynasty in the 16th century.Flora and FaunaHosts 250 bird species, including Laggar Falcon, Shaheen Falcon, and Bonelli’s Eagle; also home to Indian Pangolin, Slender Loris, and pythons.Cultural ImportanceFeatures megalithic structures, rock-cut temples, Tamil Brahmi inscriptions, and Jain beds, reflecting its historical and cultural value. |
| Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS)A Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS) is a clearly defined area recognized for its ecological sensitivity and rich biological diversity.Key Features:Rich Biodiversity: These sites are habitats for diverse wild and domesticated species, including rare, threatened, and keystone species.Ecological Sensitivity: BHS areas are ecologically fragile and play a vital role in sustaining local ecosystems.Community Management: Local communities actively participate in conserving biodiversity within these areas.Legal Framework: Declared under Section 37(1) of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, the State Government, in consultation with local bodies, can notify these areas.Historical Significance: The Nallur Tamarind Grove in Bengaluru, Karnataka, was India’s first BHS, declared in 2007.Protection Measures:BHS designation focuses on sustainable biodiversity conservation without imposing strict restrictions on activities within these areas. |
Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme
Mains Paper 3
The government implements a Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme to manage subsidy rates for Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers, adjusting them according to the global prices of raw materials and market fluctuations.
Unlike P&K fertilizers, urea is made available to farmers at a government-mandated Maximum Retail Price (MRP), regardless of its production cost.
About the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme:
| Aspect | Details |
| About | Introduced to offer subsidies on Phosphatic (P) and Potassic (K) fertilizers based on nutrient content, excluding Urea. Aims to encourage balanced fertilization by promoting the use of multiple fertilizers for optimal plant nutrition. |
| Structure and Functioning | Launched: 2010, under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers. Implemented by: Department of Fertilizers, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers. Scope: Covers Phosphatic and Potassic fertilizers (excluding Urea). Governance: Subsidy rates are reviewed annually or bi-annually, based on market prices of fertilizers and raw materials. |
| Aims and Objectives | Promote Balanced Fertilization: Encourages the use of Phosphorus and Potassium alongside Nitrogen to improve soil health. Enhance Nutrient Efficiency: Reduces dependency on Urea and promotes the use of other vital nutrients. Support Farmers’ Affordability: Makes Phosphatic and Potassic fertilizers more affordable and accessible for farmers. |
About New Investment Policy (NIP) on Urea
| Aspect | Details |
| Introduction of NIP | The Government of India introduced the National Investment Policy (NIP) for Urea in 2012 to boost domestic urea production and reduce reliance on imports. |
| Policy Goals | The NIP aims to revive outdated urea plants and encourage investment in new ones to meet the rising demand for urea. It focuses on enhancing fertilizer availability and achieving self-sufficiency in urea production. |
| Urea Pricing under NIP | Urea pricing is regulated by the government, with subsidies in place to maintain affordable prices for farmers. The government compensates urea manufacturers to cover the difference between production costs and the retail price, which remains fixed at ₹5,360 per ton (as of 2023). |
