Which species are likely to be impacted by the Great Nicobar Island mega project?

The Great Nicobar Island mega project is expected to impact several endemic and ecologically significant species, including the Leatherback Marine Turtle, Nicobar Macaque, Robber Crab, Nicobar Megapode, Saltwater Crocodile, and coral reef ecosystems. A biodiversity management committee has been constituted to oversee mitigation measures such as coral and giant clam translocation. Species such as the Narcondam Hornbill and Andaman Wild Pig are not directly affected because they are found on different islands.

Why is Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary famous for fireflies?

Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot of Maharashtra, is famous for its seasonal firefly displays. The sanctuary's dense forests, high humidity, and low levels of artificial light create ideal conditions for fireflies. During the pre-monsoon and monsoon seasons, visitors can observe large congregations of glowing fireflies along forest trails.

Which endangered species is found in Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary?

Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the Indian Giant Squirrel (Ratufa indica), which is the state animal of Maharashtra. The sanctuary also supports rich biodiversity, including numerous species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and endemic plants of the Western Ghats.

Which northeastern states signed an MoU for resumption of oil and gas exploration?

The Union Government, Assam, and Nagaland signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to resume oil and gas exploration activities along their disputed boundary after nearly three decades. Assam accounts for around 22% of India's crude oil reserves and about 15% of natural gas reserves, while Nagaland possesses significant hydrocarbon potential in the Naga-Schuppen Belt of the Assam-Arakan Basin.

Why is the Assam-Nagaland oil exploration agreement significant?

The agreement is significant because it revives exploration and production activities in a resource-rich region after about 30 years. It is expected to enhance energy security, boost investments, create employment opportunities, and unlock the hydrocarbon potential of the Northeast region.

Where is the Zojila Tunnel located?

The Zojila Tunnel is being constructed on the Sonamarg-Kargil section of National Highway-01. It will provide all-weather connectivity between Sonamarg in Jammu and Kashmir and Minamarg in Ladakh, overcoming the seasonal closure caused by heavy snowfall at the Zojila Pass.

What is the significance of the Zojila Tunnel project?

The Zojila Tunnel is one of India's most important strategic infrastructure projects. It will ensure year-round connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh, improve military logistics, promote tourism, reduce travel time, and enhance socio-economic development in the region.

What is Gynacantha khasiaca or the long-tailed duskhawker?

Gynacantha khasiaca, commonly known as the long-tailed duskhawker, is a rare species of dragonfly. It was recently rediscovered in Namdapha National Park and Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh after not being recorded in India since 1914.

Why is the rediscovery of Gynacantha khasiaca important?

The rediscovery is significant because the species had not been documented in India for more than a century. It highlights the ecological importance of Namdapha National Park and demonstrates that northeastern India continues to harbor poorly studied and rare biodiversity.

What is Namdapha National Park known for?

Namdapha National Park and Tiger Reserve, located in Arunachal Pradesh's Changlang district, is one of India's largest protected areas. It is recognized for its exceptional biodiversity, tropical rainforests, high-altitude ecosystems, and the presence of rare species including clouded leopards, red pandas, hornbills, and unique dragonflies.

Daily UPSC Prelims MCQs - Environment & Geography - 18th June 2026

Devesh
4 days ago
1 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

Test your UPSC CSE 2027 preparation with today’s Environment & Geography (Every Thursday) Quiz — covering the Great Nicobar Island (GNI) mega project, the resumption of oil and gas exploration, Zojila tunnel, Gynacantha khasiaca and more.

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