Q1. Consider the following statements about Project Tiger:
- It was launched in 1973 with 9 tiger reserves.
- The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) is a statutory body under Wildlife Protection Act.
- Tiger census is conducted every 2 years using camera traps and pugmark method.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None
Answer: (b) Only two
Explanation:
- Correct – Launched on 1 April 1973 at Jim Corbett with 9 reserves (1,881 sq km).
- Correct – NTCA constituted under 2005 amendment to WLPA as a statutory body.
- Incorrect – All India Tiger Estimation is every 4 years (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022); uses camera trapping + DNA + prey base, not pugmarks (discontinued post-2006).
Q2. Consider the following statements on the Paris Agreement (2015):
- It aims to limit global temperature rise to well below 2°C, pursuing efforts for 1.5°C.
- India’s NDC includes reducing emission intensity by 33–35% by 2030 from 2005 levels.
- Developed countries are legally bound to provide $100 billion annually to developing nations.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None
Answer: (b) Only two
Explanation:
- Correct – Article 2: <2°C, pursue 1.5°C.
- Correct – India’s first NDC (2015): 33–35% reduction in emission intensity by 2030 from 2005.
- Incorrect – The $100 billion annual goal (from Copenhagen Accord 2009, reaffirmed in Paris) is a collective political commitment, not a legally binding obligation under the Paris Agreement.
Q3. Consider the following statements on Wetland (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017:
- It prohibits reclamation, solid waste dumping, and discharge of untreated waste in wetlands.
- State Wetland Authorities are responsible for demarcation and notification.
- Wetlands smaller than 2.25 hectares are not covered under the Rules.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None
Answer: (b) Only two
Explanation:
- Correct – Rule 4 lists 7 prohibited activities including the three mentioned.
- Correct — State Wetland Authority is responsible for identification, demarcation, and recommendation for notification (Central/State authority then notifies).
- Incorrect – No minimum size; even small wetlands are covered if ecologically significant.
Q4. Consider the following statements on Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS):
- India phased out CFCs completely by 2010 under Montreal Protocol.
- HCFCs are to be phased out by 2030 under Kigali Amendment.
- Methyl Bromide is an ODS used in refrigeration.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None
Answer: (a) Only one
Explanation:
- Correct – India achieved 100% CFC phase-out by 1 January 2010.
- Incorrect – Kigali Amendment (2016) targets HFCs, not HCFCs (HCFC phase-out under Montreal: 2030 for developing).
- Incorrect – Methyl Bromide is used as a soil fumigant/pesticide, not in refrigeration.
Q5. Consider the following statements on Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA):
- EIA Notification 2006 requires public consultation for all Category A projects.
- The 2020 Draft EIA Notification proposed post-facto clearance for violations.
- Strategic projects of national importance are exempt from EIA.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None
Answer: (b) Only two
Explanation:
- Incorrect — public consultation required only for Category A and some B1 projects, not all A projects automatically (defence & security-related Category A exempt).
- Correct – Draft EIA 2020 allowed ex-post facto clearance (later struck down by SC in 2021).
- Correct – Strategic projects (defence, border infra) are exempt under 2006 notification.
