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GEOGRAPHY NEWS-LETTER

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Prelims Corner-July 2022.
Places in News

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PRELIMS SCORE
AUGUST-2022
1. India: Target to eliminate Kala-azar by 2023

2. Water shortage in the Netherlands

3. Indian Oil- NTCA MoU on ‘Project Cheetah’

4. New Ramsar Sites in India

5. RUSSIA: USE OF ‘BUTTERFLY MINES’

6. SMILE-75 Initiative
 1. India: Target to eliminate Kala-azar by 2023

Union Government of India has set the target to eliminate Kala-azar from country by 2023. According to Dr Bharati
Pravin Pawar (Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare), out of 633 Kala-azar endemic blocks, 625 blocks have
successfully eliminated the kala-azar in 2021. India’s target is way ahead than World Health Organisation (WHO)’s
target of eliminating the disease by 2030.
About Kala Azar:
Kala Azar is also called as Leishmaniasis. It is a neglected tropical disease, by which over 100 countries are affected,
including India. Neglected tropical diseases are a group of multiple communicable diseases that are prevalent in
tropical and subtropical conditions of 149 countries. The disease is caused due to parasite called Leishmania. This
parasite is transmitted via bite of sand flies.
Three Types of Kala Azar:
Visceral leishmaniasis: It affects multiple organs and is considered as the most serious form of the disease. It is
commonly called as Kala Azar in India.
Cutaneous leishmaniasis: It is the most common type, affecting skin. It results into skin sores.
Mucocutaneous leishmaniasis: It causes skin and mucosal lesions.
Treatment of Kala Azar:
Only drug that is used to treat kala azar is miltefosine. However, this drug is losing its effectiveness rapidly, because of
parasite’s resistance to this drug. A protein called ‘P4ATPase-CDC50’, helps in intaking the drug by parasite. But other
called ‘P-glycoprotein’, throws this drug out from parasite’s body.
 2. Water shortage in the Netherlands

The National Water levels in the Netherlands has declined to all-time low. As a result, country has been suffering
from a water shortage. According to Water Shortage Management Team, continuous drought in country has led to
‘water shortage’. Water shortage suggest that, Rhine River Water is supplying 50% less water than normal.
Highlights:
u Water shortage in long term, can result into salinisation of the soil, affecting the farming industry.
u Netherlands is known for its abundance of water. Despite this fact, water shortage was declared for the fifth
time in last 22 years.
u Water shortage situation is now escalated to a level three threat in 2003. Level three threat means a designated
national crisis.
u The Netherlands is known for wet and unpredictable weather. However, in year 2022, weather has become
extremely dry due to climate change.
u As per calculations, there was an average precipitation deficit of 220 millimetres.
However, citizens or resident won’t get affected much due to water shortage. But it will affect those working in
certain industries like shipping and farming, for now. Nature in the country will also get affected. The Water
Shortage Management Team has now been implementing a plan of action to counter the shortage of water.
Several ideas are being presented. One such idea is- setting up a bubble screen in Diemen. The bubble screen
will help in separating salt and fresh water and thus prevent salinisation.
 3. Indian Oil- NTCA MoU on ‘Project Cheetah’

Recently, the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with
Indian Oil Corporation to relocate cheetahs from Africa to India, under Project Cheetah. as a part of the MoU, the IOC
will grant Rs 50.22 crore over four years period, for the project. Currently, the total cost of relocation project is Rs 75
crore.
Key Points:
u Indian Oil- NTCA MoU is in continuation with the MoU inked between India and Namibia on July 20, 2022 for
wildlife conservation and sustainable biodiversity utilisation, to re-establish cheetah in historical range in India.
u Indian Oil will provide funds as a part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR). It will be used to reintroduce
cheetah as well as for ecology development, habitat management & protection, veterinary healthcare and staff
training.
u Indian Oil has become the first corporate to come forward to support ‘Project Cheetah’ under CSR.
u Project Cheetah is nationally important and is also essential to balance the ecosystem.
Relocation of Cheetah:
In India, Cheetahs got extinct in 1952 due to hunting activities. As a result, Union government initiated the ‘Cheetah
Relocation’ project. This project is being implemented slowly after Supreme Court in allowed the Union Government
to do so in January 2020. Earlier, India had planned to relocate Asiatic Cheetah to India from Iran. But plan changed to
introduce African Cheetah, due to recent development in India-Iran relations. During 19th meeting of NCTA,
Environment Ministry released ‘Action plan for Introduction of Cheetah in India’. Under the action plan, 50 African
Cheetah from Namibia will be located to India in next 5 years. 10-12 Cheetah will be relocated during first year, in the
Kuno Palpur National Park of Madhya Pradesh.
 4. New Ramsar Sites in India
According to union environment ministry, 6
new wetlands from Tamil Nadu, and 1 each
from Karnataka, Goa, Madhya Pradesh and
Odisha have received Ramsar recognition as
“Wetlands of International Importance”. With
the inclusion of 10, total number of Ramsar
Sites stands at 64.
Newly Recognised Sites are:
u Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary– It is a man-made wetland, located in Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu. It is the
largest reserve for migratory water birds and breeding resident in south India. Paddy is also irrigated in the
sanctuary, on 190 acres area.
u Nanda Lake– Nanda Lake is the freshwater marshes, located adjacent to one of rivulets of Zuari river in Goa. It
helps the locals to store water in off-monsoon season. Stored water is used to cultivate paddy downstream of
this lake. It is home to Black-headed ibis, Wire-tailed swallow, Common kingfisher, Brahminy kite and Bronze-
winged jacana.
u Satkosia gorge– It expands along Mahanadi River in Odisha. It was set up in 1976 as a wildlife sanctuary. The
Deccan Peninsula and the Eastern Ghats meet at Satkosia. Satkosia gorge wetland is known for marshes and
evergreen forests.
u Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve (GoMBR)– It is located in south-eastern coastline and is famous for rich
marine environment. The reserve is home to various globally important and highly threatened species like
whale shark, Dugong, green sea turtle, seahorses, balanoglossus, dolphins, hawksbill turtle, sacred chanks, etc.
u Vembannur Wetland Complex, Tamil Nadu
u Vellode Bird Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu
u Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu and
u Udhayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu
u Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Karnataka and
u Sirpur Wetland, Madhya Pradesh.
Ramsar Sites are recognised under the Convention on Wetlands, which is an intergovernmental treaty dealing with
conservation of wetlands. As a part of the convention, parties identify and place suitable wetlands to the List of
Wetlands of International Importance of Ramsar List. In July 2022, India had designated 5 new wetlands of
international importance viz., Pala wetland in Mizoram; Sakhya Sagar in Madhya Pradesh; and Karikili Bird Sanctuary,
Pallikaranai Marsh Reserve Forest & Pichavaram Mangrove in Tamil Nadu
 5. RUSSIA: USE OF ‘BUTTERFLY MINES’

Recently, UK Ministry of Defence cautioned about the possible use of PFM-1 series ‘Butterfly Mines’ by Russian
military in ongoing war in Ukraine. Russia is expected to deploy anti-personnel mines to discourage freedom of
movement across its defensive lines in Donbas region. Butterfly mines are capable of causing widespread casualties
among military as well as local civilian population.
Highlights:
u Russia has attempted to employ PFM-1 and PFM-1S anti-personnel mines in the Donetsk and Kramatorsk region.
u Earlier, PFM-1s were used in Soviet-Afghan War, in which they injured children who mistook the mines for toys.
About Butterfly Mines:
u The PFM-1 and PFM-1S anti-personnel landmines are commonly called as ‘Butterfly mines’ or ‘Green Parrots’.
They are called so because of their shape and colour.
u The PFM-1S mine work under self-destruction mechanism, that gets activated within 1-40 hours.
u Butterfly mine attracts children because it is similar to coloured toy.
u They are sensitive to touch and just picking it up can turn them on.
u They are difficult to detect as they are made of plastic and can evade metal detectors.
u They were green in colour. Hence, they are also called as “Green Parrots”.
Butterfly mines can be deployed in the field, via several means. They can be dropped through ballistic dispersion by
means of artillery and mortar shell or from helicopters. They glide across the ground without explosion, but explode
as soon as they come in contact. International convention on landlines put ban on using such mines. However, Russia
and Ukraine are not signatories to the convention. As a result, they are accusing each other of having used butterfly
mines.
 6. SMILE-75 Initiative

Under the Smile-75 initiative, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has marked 75 Municipal Corporations for
comprehensive rehabilitation of person practicing the act of bagging. This initiative has been started as a part of
Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav.
Important facts related to SMILE-75 Initiative include;
u SMILE stands for “Support for Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise”.
u 75 Municipal Corporations, experts associated with the field of beggary and NGOs will take part in nationwide
launch in online and offline mode.
u As a part of the initiative, identified Municipal Corporations will cover several comprehensive welfare measures
in association with NGOs and other stakeholders, for persons engaged in the act of begging.
u They will focus on rehabilitation, counselling, education, awareness, provision of medical facilities, skill
development and economic linkages with other Government welfare initiatives.
u Initiative has been started with the objective of making cities/town and municipal areas free of begging and
make strategy of rehabilitation process.
To implement the scheme till year 2025-26, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has allocated Rs.100 crores.
Local Urban Bodies, Civil Society Organisations or Non-Government Organisations plays significant role in
addressing the act of begging with concerted efforts. In India, Begging is a criminal act in cities like Delhi and
Mumbai, in accordance with Bombay Prevention of Begging Act, BPBA (1959). Under the act, officials from Social
Welfare Department conduct raids, in association with Police and pick up beggars. Later, they are tries in special
courts called ‘beggar courts’.
PLACES IN NEWS
 PLACES IN NEWS
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1. Ramagundam
u Ramagundam, Peddapalli district, Telangana. The largest floating solar power plant in India, located in
Ramagundam, Peddapalli district, Telangana.
u These are Photovoltaic (PV) modules mounted on platforms that float on water reservoirs, lakes etc. It is
declared operational from 1st July 2022.
u These installations are relatively quick to construct, silent to run and require no land leveling or removal of
vegetation.

2. Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve

u Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Chenkurinji (Gluta travancorica), is a species endemic
to the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve. Established in 2001, the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve is a
biosphere reserve in India that spans in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
u It is situated at the southernmost tip of the Western Ghats. Gluta travancorica flowers in January on average, but
the species has recently reported a tendency to extend the process due to climate change.
u It's used to lower blood pressure and treat arthritis.

3. Mangarh hilltop
u Mangarh hilltop, Rajasthan. National Monuments Authority (NMA) designated Mangarh hilltop in Rajasthan as
a national monument in honor of 1500 Bhil tribal freedom fighters.
u Ancient National Monuments are defined under the Ancient Monument and Archaeological Sites and Remains
Act,1958.
u The Central Government is authorized to maintain, protect and promote the monuments.

4. Jawaharlal Nehru Port

u Jawaharlal Nehru Port, Maharashtra. Jawaharlal Nehru Port became the first major port of the country to
become a 100% Landlord port of India having all berths being operated on PPP model.
u It is situated in Thane creek on the west coast of Maharashtra.
u The publicly governed port authority acts as a regulatory body and as a landlord, while private companies carry
out port operations—mainly cargo-handling activities.
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1. Kuno National Park
u Kuno National Park of Madhya Pradesh. Kuno National Park of Madhya Pradesh is one the most unique
destinations for all wildlife lovers and enthusiasts.
u It has a healthy population of cheetahs, chital, sambar, nilgai, wild pig, chinkara and cattle.
u India will relocate cheetahs from South Africa and Namibia into the Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh.
u It will initiate India’s ambitious plan of transcontinental relocation of cheetahs.

2. Ramappa Temple,
u Ramappa Temple, Telangana. Ramappa Temple, at Mulugu district of Telangana presents the distinct style of
Kakatiyas.
u The foundation of this temple is “sandbox technique”. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

3. Sirumalai Hills,
u Sirumalai Hills, Tamil Nadu. The Sirumalai Hills are spread over 60,000 acres in Dindigul District of Tamil Nadu.
u They are considered to be the spur of the Eastern Ghats.
u They are located about 25 kilometers from Dindigul town, at an altitude of 400 to 1,650 meters from mean sea
level. The hills act as a repository of several rare and endemic plants.

4. Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary

u Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in Meghalaya. The new species of bamboo-dwelling bat has been
named Glischropus meghalayanus.
u Scientists have discovered a new species of bamboo-dwelling bat near the Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary.
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1. Coimbatore
u Recently, scientists from the Salim Ali Center for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON) in Coimbatore, Tamil
Nadu carried out a survey for Gray slender loris populations.
u Gray Slender Loris generally inhabits dry and drought-prone areas of Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu. It is found in
acacia and tamarind-dominated thorn and scrub forests near cultivated fields.

2. Rakhigarhi
u Rakhigarhi is located in the state of Haryana.
u The Harappan site of Rakhigarhi has been excavated by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and has revealed the
structure of some houses, lanes and drainage system. Rakhigarhi is the largest Harappan site in the Indian
subcontinent.

3. Mahabodhi temple
u Mahabodhi temple is situated in Gaya district of Bihar.
u It has spiritual importance. Huge gathering occurs on the day of Buddha purnima. Mahabodhi Temple is a
UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bodhi Temple is the location where Lord Buddha has attained enlightenment.

4. Kanheri Caves
u The Kanheri Caves are a group of caves and rock-cut monuments located on the western outskirts of Mumbai.
u The caves are located within the forests of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park.The name Kanheri is derived from
‘Kanhagiri’ in Prakrit and occurs in the Nasik inscription of the Satavahana ruler Vasisthiputra Pulumavi.

5. Puri Heritage Corridor Project.

u It is a redevelopment project of the Odisha government in Puri to create an international heritage site, including
the Jagannath temple.
u Under the umbrella project falls the Shree Jagannatha Heritage Corridor (SJHC) or the Shree Mandira Parikrama
Project, for the revamp of the area around the temple.
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1. Namchi
u Recently in Namchi (South Sikkim), Geological Survey of India (GSI) has identified two geological heritage sites in
the Indian Himalayan Region of India.
u The sites identified are Siwalik Fossil Park, Himachal Pradesh and Stromatolite bearing Dolomite / Limestone of
Buxa Formation of Buxa Formation, Sikkim.
u With inclusion of these two sites, there are 34 Geological Heritage Sites in India.

2. Jaynagar
u Recently, the Prime Minister of Nepal visited India,during this visit, the 35-km cross-border railway line linking
Jaynagar in Bihar to Kurtha in Nepal was launched.
u This is the first broad-gauge passenger rail link between the two sides and it will be extended to Bardibas in
Nepal under a project supported by an Indian grant of Rs 548 crore.

3. Nanar Oil Refinery

u The project, Ratnagiri Refinery and Petrochemical Limited, was going to be Asia’s ‘biggest oil refinery’, and was
proposed to be built at Nanar village in Ratnagiri district in coastal Konkan region.
u It was supposed to be a joint venture between Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum, and Saudi
Arabia-owned Aramco and United Arab Emirates’ National Oil Company.

4. Periyar river
u The Periyar River is the longest river in the state of Kerala with a length of 244 km.
u It is also known as ‘Lifeline of Kerala’ as it is one of the few perennial rivers in the state. Periyar River originates
from Sivagiri hills of Western Ghats, in Tamil Nadu and flows through the Periyar National Park.
u The main tributaries of Periyar are Muthirapuzha, Mullayar, Cheruthoni, Perinjankutti.
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1. Konark Sun Temple
u Konark Sun Temple, located in the East Odisha near the sacred city of Puri.
u Built in the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva I (AD 1238-1264).
u Its scale, refinement and conception represent the strength and stability of the Eastern Ganga Empire as well as
the value systems of the historic milieu.

2. Gulf of Mannar
u Recently, the Tamil Nadu government has decided to go ahead with the establishment of India's first
conservation reserve for the Dugong in Gulf of Mannar, Palk Bay.
u It facilitates India to act as the leading nation in the South Asia Sub-region with respect to dugong conservation.
u Dugong (Dugong dugon) also called ‘Sea Cow’ is one of the four surviving species in the Order Sirenia and it is the
only existing species of herbivorous mammal that lives exclusively in the sea including in India..

3. Narmada river
u Narmada is the largest west flowing river of the peninsular region flowing through a rift valley between the
Vindhya Range on the north and the Satpura Range on the south.
u It rises from Maikala range near Amarkantak in Madhya Pradesh.
u It drains a large area in Madhya Pradesh besides some areas in the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat.
u The river near Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh) forms the DhuanDhar Falls.
MAP - 6
1. Keetham lake:
Soor Sarovar Lake also known as Keetham lake situated within the Soor Sarovar Bird
Sanctuary, which was declared as a bird sanctuary in the year 1991.

Location:
 This lake is situated alongside river Yamuna in Agra, Uttar Pradesh.
 The Soor Sarovar bird sanctuary covered an area of 7.97 sq km.
 It is today home to more than 165 species of migratory and resident birds.
 Recently, the Meteor lake at Lonar in Buldhana district of Maharashtra and
the Soor Sarovar at Agra have been declared Ramsar sites, a conservation
status conferred by International Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.
 It also has a Bear Rescue centre for rescued dancing bears.

2. Ayodhya:

 It is a religious city of Uttar Pradesh.

 The city is identified by some with the legendary city of Ayodhya, and as such,
as being the birthplace of Lord Rama and setting of the epic Ramayana.
 The grand temple at Rama Janmabhoomi in Ayodhya will follow the Nagara
style of temple architecture.

3. GULF OF MANNAR:

 Second largest biosphere reserve of India after Kachchh

 Indian part of the gulf
 Included under the network of biosphere reserves of the UNESCO
 Known for coral reefs
 One of the richest coastal regions of Asia (3600 species )

4. Kamarajar Port: located on the Coromandel Coast about 24 km north of

Chennai Port, Chennai, it is the 12th major port of India, and the first port in
India which is a public company. The port was declared as a major port under
the Indian Ports Act, 1908 in March 1999 and incorporated as Ennore Port
Limited under the Companies Act, 1956 in October 1999. The Kamarajar Port is
the only corporatized major port and is registered as a company.
5. Ghodahada Dam:

 The population of Mugger Crocodile is on the rise in Odisha’s Ghodahada

reservoir.
 As per the annual crocodile census conducted in the Ghodahada reservoir, the
number of mature mugger crocodiles in Ghodahada reservoir and its adjoining
area has increased.
 The reservoir is located close to the Lakhari Valley Sanctuary and is a part of
the Eastern Ghats.
 The reservoir is fed by Ghodahada river which is a tributary of the Rushikulya.
6. BARAIL RANGE:

 Lies along the border of Assam and Manipur

 Links the Meghalaya Plateau with the Purvanchal Hills
 Covered with bamboo and pine trees
 Degraded due to the Jhuming.
 Water divide between the Brahmaputra and the Barak rivers.
 The Barak rises in its southern slopes.
7. Kaleshwaram Project:

 The Kaleshwaram lift irrigation project is aimed to make Telangana drought

proof by harnessing the flood waters of the Godavari. The project is an under-
construction multi-purpose irrigation project on the Godavari River in
Kaleshwaram, Bhoopalpally, Telangana.
 The project starts at the confluence point of Pranahita River and Godavari
River.
 The Kaleshwaram project will support Mission Kakatiya and Mission
Bhagiratha schemes designed to provide drinking water to many villages and
improve the capacities of tanks.
8. Challakere:

 The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has proposed Human Space
Flight Centre (HSFC) at Challakere in Chitradurga district of Karnataka.
 Challakere will be the single-stop consolidating infrastructure and activities
related to space travellers.
 It is called Oil city with numerous edible oil mills around the city.
 Challakere is famous for kambali (woven blankets) made by the local Kuruba
people.
  It is also known as the "second Mumbai" of India because it is the second-
largest producer/supplier of edible oil after Mumbai. There are as many as
60+ oil industries in Challakere.
9. Rajaji National Park:

Recently, a clash took place between Van Gujjars and the Uttarakhand forest officials
in the Rajaji National Park.

Key Points:

 Location: Haridwar (Uttarakhand), along the foothills of the Shivalik range,

spans 820 square kilometres.
 Background: Three sanctuaries in the Uttarakhand i.e. Rajaji, Motichur and
Chila were amalgamated into a large protected area and named Rajaji
National Park in the year 1983 after the famous freedom fighter C.
Rajgopalachari; popularly known as “Rajaji”.
Features:

 This area is the North Western Limit of habitat of Asian elephants.

 Forest types include sal forests, riverine forests, broad–leaved mixed forests,
scrubland and grassy.
 It possesses as many as 23 species of mammals and 315 bird species such as
elephants, tigers, leopards, deers and ghorals, etc.
 It was declared a Tiger Reserve in 2015.
 It is home to the Van Gujjars in the winters.
10. Cooum River:
 The Cooum river (also known as Thiruvallikenni river) is one of the shortest
classified rivers draining into the Bay of Bengal. This river is about 72 km in
length, flowing 32 km in the city of Chennai (urban part) and the rest in rural
part. The river is highly polluted in the urban area (Chennai). Along with the
Adyar River running parallel to the south and the Kosasthalaiyar River, the
river trifurcates the city of Chennai and separates Northern Chennai from
Central Chennai.
 Cooum, Buckingham canal and Adayar are the three rivers that runs through
the city, all are dried up and dead due to industrial wastes and lack of civic
measures.
MAP - 7
i. Jharsuguda:
Jharsuguda is the district headquarters of Jharsuguda district of Odisha, India. It is the administrative
headquarters of Jharsuguda district. It is an industrial hub, consisting mainly of metallurgical
industries. It is well connected to major cities of India through the rail network, and a recently
inaugurated Jharsuguda Airport later renamed as Veer Surendra Sai Airport by Prime
minister Narendra Modi. It is popularly known as the "Powerhouse of Odisha" due to a large number
of industries mostly thermal power plants located nearby.

ii. Satkosia Tiger Reserve:

Satkosia Tiger Reserve is a tiger reserve located in the Angul district of Odisha, India covering an
area of 988.30 km².
It is located where the Mahanadi River passes through a 22 km long gorge in the Eastern
Ghats mountains. The tiger reserve is located in the Eastern Highlands moist deciduous
forests ecoregion. The major plant communities are mixed deciduous forests including Sal (Shorea
robusta), and riverine forest.
Satkosia Gorge Wildlife Sanctuary was created in 1976, with an area of 796 km².Saktosia Tiger
Reserve was designated in 2007, and comprises the Satkosia Gorge Wildlife Sanctuary and the
adjacent Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary.

iii. Krem Puri:

The world’s longest sandstone cave named Krem Puri was discovered near Laitsohum village in
Mawsynram area in East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. The cave is 24,583 metres (24.5 km) in
length and is known for its complex cave systems hidden under its undulating hills. It was discovered
in 2016 but its actual length was found during expedition to measure and map it by Meghalaya
Adventurers’ Association (MAA).

iv. Siang River:

Brahmaputra River, known as Siang in Arunachal Pradesh, India. As the river enters Arunachal
Pradesh, it is called Siang and makes a very rapid descend from its original height in Tibet, and finally
appears in the plains, where it is called Dihang. It flows for about 35 km and is joined by two other
major rivers: Dibang and Lohit. From this point of confluence, the river becomes very wide and is
called Brahmaputra.
Siang River Festival is a social spectacle in Arunachal Pradesh, where one can locate the social
articulation of the general population of Arunachal Pradesh.

v. St. Mary’s Island:

St. Mary's Islands, also known as Coconut Island and Thonsepar, are a set of four small islands in
the Arabian Sea off the coast of Malpe in Udupi, Karnataka, India. They are known for their
distinctive geological formation of columnar basaltic lava.

It is one of the 32 National Geological Monuments of India declared by the Geological Survey of
India in 2016 for their protection, maintenance, promotion and enhancement of geotourism. The
monument is considered an important site for "Geo Tourism".
vi. Malpe Beach:
Malpe is a natural port about six kilometers to the west of Udupi, Karnataka, India. An important
port and a major fishing harbor on the Karnataka coast. It is a suburb in Udupi city . The town of
Malpe is associated largely with settlements of the Mogaveera fisherman community. Malpe is a hub
of Mogaveera population. Tulu, Kannada, Urdu and Konkani are spoken here.[1] first Indian beach
with 24/7 WiFi. It also has activities such as parasailing, Jet Skiing etc.

vii. Pulwama:
Pulwama (known as Panwangam in antiquity, and later as Pulgam) is a town and a notified area
committee in Pulwama district, in India’s northern state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is almost 40 km
(25 mi) from the summer capital of Srinagar. Pulwama is often called the "Anand of Kashmir" (the
joy, the delight), but also the "Dudha-Kul of Kashmir" (the milk) on account of its high milk
production. 44 Indian security personnel were killed by terrorist group JeM (jaise-e-muhammad) in
the 2019 Pulwama attack.

viii. Mandal Dam:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has laid the foundation stone for the Mandal Dam Project on the
North Koel River. The Mandal Dam Project would be boon for the states of Jharkhand and Bihar. The
project threatens to submerge the portions of the Palamau Tiger Reserve and Betla National Park.

ix. Banasura Sagar Dam, which impounds the Karamanathodu tributary of the Kabini River, is part of
the Indian Banasurasagar Project consisting of a dam and a canal project started in 1979. The
Banasura Sagar Dam is located 21 km from Kalpetta, in Wayanad District of Kerala in the Western
Ghats. It is the largest earth dam in India and the second largest of its kind in Asia. The dam is made
up of massive stacks of stones and boulders.

x. Nokrek National Park, the core area of Nokrek Biosphere Reserve, is a national park located
approximately 2 km from Tura Peak in West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya, India. UNESCO added
this National park to its list of Biosphere Reserves in May 2009. Along with Balphakram national
park, Nokrek is a hotspot of biodiversity in Meghalaya.
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 i. Muzzafarpur:
 More than 150 children died due to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome.
 Situated on the bank of Burhi Gandak River in Bihar.
• The town lies in active seismic zone and one of the oldest and largest trade centre on
Patna- Nepal route.
• It is world famous for its litchi orchards. Railcar is its most important industry.
ii. North Sentinel Island:
 American tourist trying to contact Sentinelese was killed by them.
 Part of Andaman & Nicobar Island group.
• Home to indigenous people, Sentinelese who reject any kind of contact with outside
people. There estimated population is between 50 to 400.
• Suffered seriously during 2004 Tsunami.
iii. Balukhand Wildlife Sanctuary: Balukhand-Konark Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary
located in the Indian state of Odisha.
 The sanctuary has an area of 72 km², and is located along the Bay of Bengal coast,
between the towns of Puri and Konark. The sanctuary includes sandy beaches, coastal
dunes, groves of introduced Casuarina trees planted in 1916-17, and cashew plantations.
Little of the native flora remains.
 The sanctuary is home to a herd of Blackbuck, Olive Ridley Sea Turtles nest on the
beaches.
iv. Tultuli Dam:
 Still not completed.
 Only major dam in the region.
 An earth fill dam on Khobragadi River near Gadchiroli in eastern part of Maharashtra.
v. Pushkar:
 In News- Camel festival concluded recently.
 Town in the Ajmer district Rajasthan along the banks of famous Pushkar Lake.
 Only temple of Lord Brahma in the world is located here. So it famous Hindu Pilgrimage
site.
 Surrounded by hills from three sides and sand dune on other as it is situated at the edge
of Thar Desert.
vi. Bhavani River:
 In News- Increasing pollution causing threat to bio-diversity.
 Originates from Nilgiri hills of the Western Ghats, flow through the Silent Valley National
Park in Kerala.
 Major River in Kongu Nadu region of Tamil Nadu, tributary of Kaveri.
 Monsoon fed drainage basin and meets the 90% demand for irrigation.
vii. Sariska Tiger Reserve:
 New Safari routes are being opened up.
 Located in Alwar district, Rajasthan.
 In the Aravalli Hills &divided into the grasslands, dry deciduous forests, sheer cliffs and
rocky landscape.
 Dhok trees are widespread.
 Rich faunal biodiversity.
viii. Thootukudi:
 Sterlite Copper smelting plant was closed after protest.
 In Tamil Nadu along the Coromandel Coast. Adjacent to Gulf of Mannar.
 Commercial Sea port.
 Pear Fishing is carried out.
 It is the end point of the proposed Madurai-Thoothukudi Industrial Corridor
ix. Palghar:
 Series of water induced seismic waves were experienced.
 Town in Konkan region, Maharashtra.
 Lies in Mumbai- Ahmedabad rail corridor.
 Famous for its natural and pristine beauty.
x. Khajuraho:
 Safety of tourists is cause of concern.
 Located in Chhatarpur district, Madhya Pradesh.
 UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for group of Hindu temples and Jain temples.
 Erotic monuments attracts tourists from all parts of the world.
 Khajuraho Civil Aerodrome has been opened to tap the tourism potential.
MAP - 9
MAP - 10
 i. Chilika Lake:

In News: Cyclone Fani has led to changes in lake morphology.

Located in Puri, Khurda and Ganjam districts of Odisha at the mouth of the Daya River, flowing into
the Bay of Bengal.
• Largest coastal lagoon in India and largest brackish water lake in Asia.

• It was designated as 1st Indian site under Ramsar Wetland Convention.

• Wintering ground for migratory birds.

ii. Thane Creek:

In news: Tunnel construction under Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project has been approved.
It an inlet in the shoreline of the Arabian Sea that isolates the city of Mumbai from the Indian
mainland.
• The creek is divided into two parts. Ulhas River flows through on of the part.
• Western bank of the Thane Creek has been declared as the “Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary”.
• It will be Maharashtra’s second marine sanctuary after Malvan sanctuary.

iii. Noyyal River:

In News: Dying due to high effluents from nearby dyeing units.

Small River in Western Tamil Nadu, and a tributary of Kaveri River.

• The area is known for its scanty rainfall.
• Innovative water harvesting system Noyyal River Tanks System to hold any overflow from the rains
plus the water of the Northeast and Southwest monsoon season was developed which was
ecologically important.
• Critical issue is the pollution from Tirupur textile cluster.

iv. Prayagraj:
In News: Huge waste has piled up after the Kumbh threatening local ecosystem and river Ganges.

Earlier known as Allahabad. Most populated district of Uttar Pradesh.

• Famous for SANGAM- confluence of river Ganga, Yamuna and the invisible Sarasvati river.
• Indian Standard time meridian passes through it.
• World’s largest fertilizer complex based on Naphtha is situated here.

V. Rajaji Tiger Reserve:

The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) on 21 April 2015 accorded final approval to Rajaji
National Park, Uttarakhand as India's 48th Tiger Reserve. With this notification, Uttarakhand got its
second tiger reserve after the Corbett Tiger Reserve.

The notification was announced by Uttarakhand Chief Minister Harish Rawat while releasing logo of
the Rajaji Tiger Reserve.

The Rajaji National Park that came into existence in 1983 is spread across three districts of
Uttarakhand namely Haridwar, Dehradun and Pauri Garhwal in an area over 820 square km.
The park is a home to 315 bird species, 40 species of reptiles and fish and 400 Asian elephants.
vi. Kamorta:

In News: Tribal reserve in Nicobar Island.

Located in Andaman Sea.

 Naval forward operating base of the joint-services Andaman and Nicobar Command is located
here

Vii. Banas River:

In News: Wide spread sand mining.

Lies entirely within the state of Rajasthan in western India.

 Tributary of Chambal.

 Originates from Aravalli range.

Viii. Jaintia Hills:

In News: Mine workers died due to Rat-hole Mining.

Mountainous region that part of Shillong plateau, East Meghalaya.

 Peat and Lignite variety of coal is found.

 Administered under VI schedule of Indian Constitution for decentralised governance.

ix. Una:

In News: It observed heat wave conditions for the first time. Temperature touched 45 degrees.

In Himachal Pradesh lies along Soan river.

• Earlier was an important commercial centre but its significance has declined due to roads that
bypasses the town.

• Agriculture & horticulture are main basis of economy.

• The terrain is generally semi-hilly with low hills.

• Transit town for travellers going to the city of Dharamshala or locations within the Himalayas such
as Kullu, Manali.

X. Dahej:

In News: Ro-Ro ferry service started between Ghogha and Dahej.

Cargo port situated on the Southwest coast of Gujarat, Bharuch district.

 Opens in Gulf of Cambay.

 Petroleum refinery is located here.

MAP - 11
1. Point Calimere:

Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary (PCWBS) is a 21.47-square-kilometre

(8.29 sq. mi) protected area in Tamil Nadu, South India along the Palk Strait where it meets the Bay
of Bengal at Point Calimere at the south-eastern tip of Nagapattinam District. The sanctuary was
created in 1967 for conservation of the near threatened blackbuck antelope, an
endemic mammal species of India. It is famous for large congregations of water birds,
especially greater flamingos.

2. Gawilgarh Hills:

It is part of the satpura range located between the rajpipla hills and the mahadeo hills. Spreaded
over Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. Located between Tapi and purna rivers. Main city-
Burhanpur. Named after the fortress situated on one of its southern spurs. Recently, ASI has
discovered pre-historic caves with rock paintings here.

3. MANAS River:

Important right bank tributary of the Brahmaputra , rises in Bhutan and joins the Brahmaputra
opposite to Goalpara. Flows through the Manas Wildlife Sanctuary. NH-31 passes over it, linking
Bongaigaon with Nalbari.

4. Mundra:

Mundra is a census town in Kutch district in the Indian state of Gujarat. Mundra Port is the largest private
port in India. Old Mundra town was walled and fortified with the masonry from the ruins of the ancient
town of Bhadresar. It is a port town on the south coast of Kutch; Mundra was well-known for salt and spice
trading in the past and now more for tie-dye and block-print textiles. The harbour is virtually unusable today,
and only small local fishing craft navigate its silted waterways up the river.

The Mahadeo temple has memorials to famous Mundra sailors, including some who advised the Sultan of
Zanzibar and guided Vasco da Gama to India.

5. Maithon:

Maithon is a census town in Nirsa CD Block in Dhanbad district in the Indian state of Jharkhand. It is
situated on the banks of river Barakar. The Kalyaneshwari temple 6 km away from the Maithon dam
is considered to be the seat to a very powerful deity, Ma Kalyaneshwari. Maithon Dam, of
the Damodar Valley Corporation, constitutes one of the most accomplished and successful river
valley projects of India.

6. Udanti:

The Udanti Wildlife Sanctuary occupies the southeastern portion of Gariaband Taluka of Raipur
District. To its east lies the state of Odisha. Covering an area of 247 sq km, the sanctuary has been
created for the protection of the wild buffalo. The predominant tree species are Sal, Teak, Arjun,
Khair and Sissoo.
7. Dolvi:

Dolvi is a very small municipality in western Maharashtra, situated slightly to the west from the town
of Pen, right near the delta of Amba river. The town is provided with quite good quality roads, just a
bit lacking hygiene. Farming is the main occupation of those who live in Dolvi. The 5 MTPA
integrated steel plant at Dolvi is advantageously located on the West coast of Maharashtra.

8. DUDHSAGAR:

A tired waterfall on the Mandovi River, located in Goa near the border with Karnataka. 60 km from
Panaji. 310m high-four tiered. During the monsoon season it forms one of the most spectacular
natural scenes.

9. LANDFALL ISLAND:

Northernmost point of A&N island groups. About 900 km away from the mouth of Hoogly river. Rich
in marine life. Separated from the Coco Island of Myanmar by the Coco Channel. Tourism does exist
here but exposure to the public is limited.

10. LOKTAK Lake:

Largest freshwater lake in the North-East. Located in Manipur. It has floating islands called
‘Phumdis‘. Keibul Lamjao National Park. A Ramsar site.
MAP - 12
1. AGATTI ISLAND:
• In Lakshadweep. The lagoon area of this island is habitat of coral growth and multi-
colored coral fishes in the lagoons.
• Recently, the southern bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has granted an
interim stay on felling of coconut trees on Agatti Island in Lakshadweep.
• The tree-felling is also violating the Union Territory’s (UT) Integrated Island
Management Plan (IIMP).
• It is in the UT of Lakshadweep. It is at a distance of 459 km from Kochi and is located to
the west of Kavaratti Island.
The lagoon area of this island is habitat of coral growth and multicolored coral fishes in the
lagoons.
Fishing is the most important industry which is perhaps the only island besides Minicoy
getting surplus fish.

2. Ujh Multipurpose Project:

Why in News?
As per Government’s commitment to fast track utilization of India's rights under Indus
Waters Treaty, the project is planned to be constructed in Kathua District of J&K on the River
Ujh.
About
• River Ujh is a major tributary of River Ravi, this project will store around 781 Million
Cubic meter of waters of river Ujh.
• The Ujh river originates in Kailash mountains(near Bhaderwah hills, part of the Pir
Panjal Range) at an altitude of 4,300 metres (14,100 ft).
• Four streams, Bhini, Sutar, Dunarki and Talan join Ujh at Panjtirthi.
• After construction of the project, utilization of waters of Eastern Rivers allotted to India
as per the Indus Water Treaty would be enhanced by utilizing of the flow that presently
goes across border un utilized.

3. Radhanagar Beach:
Radhanagar beach in Andaman and Nicobar.
On the occasion of International Coastal Clean-Up Day, for the first time eight beaches of
India are recommended for the coveted International eco-label, the Blue flag certification.
Radhanagar beach is situated 12 km from Havelock's ferry pier. Also known as Number 7
Beach, the Radhanagar beach is located on the western coast and was named as the Best
Beach in Asia by Time in 2004.
The beach with fine white sand, turquoise blue waters and more is not a huge island with an
overall length of 2kilometers and with of 30 to 40 meters.
4. Dhamra:
Dhamra port is one of the deepest ports on the eastern coast of India. It was granted the
rights by the Odisha government in 2004 to develop and operate for 30 years. The port is
considered strategic as it is located to serve the mineral belt of the eastern states and in
between competitors and government-controlled Haldia and Paradip ports.
Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone acquired the strategic Dhamra port in Odisha on the
east coast of India.

5. Chushul:
• It is village in Leh, Ladakh, located in the area known as “Chushul valley” close to Rezang
La and Pangong Lake.
• Chushul is one of the five officially agreed Border Personnel Meeting points between the
Indian Army and the People’s Liberation Army of China.
• This place is famous for the Indian Army who fought to the ‘last man, last round’ at
Rezang La (Chushul) on November 18, 1962. Without this crucial victory, the territory
might have been captured by China.

6. Pachmari Biosphere Reserve:

• located in the biogeographical region of the Deccan Peninsula and the Biotic Province of
Central India. The Satpura mountain ranges cross India from west to east and
Pachmarhi lies directly in its centre.

• Pachmarhi comprises three protection sites: the Bori Sanctuary, Satpura National Park
and Pachmarhi Sanctuary – otherwise known as the Satpura Tiger Reserve.

• The Pachmarhi Plateau is also known as the ‘Queen of Satpura’.

• Tectona grandis (Teak) and Shorea robusta (Sal) are the most common and unique flora
species found in the forests, with the latter found nowhere else in India.

• Gond and Korkus tribes

• Indian Giant squirrels,Flying quirrels,Rhesus Macaque ( apart from tigers

leoparsds,gaurs etc.)

• Tropical moist deciduous forests, tropical dry deciduous and central Indian sub-tropical
hill forests are the major ecosystem types.
7. Lipu Lekh:
Why in News?
India inaugurated the Darchula-Lipulekh pass link road, cutting across the disputed Kalapani
area which is used by Indian pilgrims to Kailash Mansarovar.
• Lipulekh Pass also known as Lipu-Lekh Pass/Qiangla or Tri-Corner is a high altitude
mountain pass situated in the western Himalayas with a height of 5,334 metre or 17,500
feet.
• It is international mountain pass between India, China and Nepal.
• Lipulekh pass is a far western point near Kalapani, a disputed border area between
Nepal and India.

8. Lonar Lake:
• Lake is showing strange phenomenon of water turning pink.
• Located in Maharashtra. Formed after a meteorite hit the Earth some 50,000 years ago,
Lonar lake has saline water and is a notified national geo-heritage monument.
• The colour of water in Lonar lake turned pink due to a large presence of the salt-loving
Haloarchaea microbes, according to a study by a Pune-based institute.
• Haloarchaea or halophilic archaea is a bacteria culture, which produces pink pigment,
and found in water saturated with salt.

9. Pushkar:
Pushkar is a town bordering the Thar Desert. Pushkar is in centre-east part of Rajasthan, on
the western side of Aravalli mountains. It's set on Pushkar Lake, a sacred Hindu site with 52
ghats (stone staircases) where pilgrims bathe. The town has hundreds of temples, including
14th-century Jagatpita Brahma Mandir, dedicated to the god of creation, which has a
distinctive red spire and walls inlaid with pilgrims’ silver coins.
Pushkar is famous for its annual fair (Pushkar Camel Fair) featuring a trading fete of cattle,
horses and camels.

10. Doddabetta:
Doddabetta is the highest mountain in the Nilgiri Mountains at 2,637 metres (8,652 feet).
There is a reserved forest area around the peak. It is 9 km from Ooty, on the Ooty-Kotagiri
Road in the Nilgiris District of Tamil Nadu, India. It is a popular tourist attraction with road
access to the summit. It is the fourth highest peak in South India next to Anamudi,
Mannamalai and Meesapulimala.
The area surrounding Doddabetta is mostly forested. Sholas cover the hollows of its slopes.
Slightly stunted, rhododendron trees, in the midst of thick coarse grass, flowering sub-alpine
shrubs and herbs are common, even very near the peak.
MAP - 13
MAP - 14
1. Dahej:
• RoRo ferry service started between Ghogha anf Dahej.
• Cargo port situated on the South-west coast of Gujarat, Bharuch district.
• Opens in Gulf of Cambay.
• Petroleum refinery is located here.
2. Guru Ghasidas tiger reserve:
• Chattisgarh Declares Guru Ghasidas National Park in Korea District as Tiger Reserve.
Chhattisgarh government announced that the state is set to have Guru Ghasidas
National Park in Kotiya district as its fourth ‘tiger reserve’. This decision was taken in
11th meeting of Chhattisgarh State Wildlife Board chaired by Chief Minister Bhupesh
Baghel. The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) had approved to declare
Guru Ghasidas National Park as a tiger reserve in 2014.
3. Pirotan Island:
• Pirotan Island is an Arabian Sea island in the Marine National Park, Jamnagar District
of Gujarat state, India. It is located 12 nautical miles (22 km) off the coast (Bedi
Port). It consists of mangroves and low-tide beaches and has an area of 3 square
kilometres.
• Of the 42 islands in the park, Pirotan Island is the most popular and is one of the
two islands where visitors are normally permitted. The sacred shrine of Khwaja
Khijer Rahmatullahialaih is located on the island.
4. Rajmahal Hills:
• Rajmahal Hills are hills formed from rocks dating from the Jurassic Period and named
after the town of Rajmahal which lies to the east in the state of Jharkhand in India.
• The hills are oriented in a north-south axis with an average elevation of 200–300 m
(600-1,000 ft).
• The River Ganga meanders around the hills changing direction of flow from eastwards
to southwards. Volcanic activity in the Jurassic caused the formation of these hills.
• The upper regions of the Rajmahal Hills are inhabited by the Sauria Paharia tribe
while the valleys are dominated by the Santhal tribe who cultivate the land.
• The ancient plant fossil formations of Rajmahal and Mandro in Sahebganj district
have been given the 'geological heritage site' status by the Geological Survey of
India (GSI). This is to preserve the area from rampant excavation.
• The Rajmahal hill range is believed to be one of the oldest mountain range and
finest Jurassic-era fossil beds in the world.
5. Palakkad Gap:
• Palakkad Gap or Palghat Gap is a low mountain pass in the Western Ghats between
Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu and Palakkad in Kerala. It has an average elevation of 140
metres with a width of 24–30 kilometres. The pass is located between the Nilgiri
Hills to the north and Anaimalai Hills to the south.
• Highways and rail lines through the gap connect Palghat in Kerala with Coimbatore
and Pollachi in Tamil Nadu. Palghat Gap also influences southern India’s climate; the
wet southwest monsoons as well as storms from the Bay of Bengal cross the
mountains through the opening.
6. Point Calimere
• Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary (PCWBS) is a 21.74-square-kilometre (8.29
sq. mi) protected area in Tamil Nadu, South Indian along the Palk Strait where it
meets the Bay of Bengal at Point Calimere at the South-eastern tip of Nagapattinam
District.
• The sanctuary was created in 1967 for conservation of the near threatened blackbuck
antelope, an endemic mammal species of India. It is famous for large congregations
of water birds, especially greater flamingos.
7. Gogabil Lake:
• It is Bihar’s first community reserve.
• Gogabil, an ox-bow lake in Bihar’s Katihar district, has been declared as the state’s
first ‘Community Reserve’.
• The water body was notified as a 57-hectare Community Reserve and a 30-hectare
‘Conservation Reserve’.
• Gogabeel is formed from the flow of the rivers Mahananda and Kankhar in the north
and the Ganga in the south and east.
• Gogabil was initially notified as a ‘Closed Area’ by the state government in the year
1990 for five years.
8. Nandur:
• Nandur Madhmeshwar Bird Sanctuary is located at Niphad Tehsil of Nashik District,
known as the Bharatpur of Maharashtra. It’s Maharashtra’s first Ramsar site. It lies
on the bank of river Godavari.
• Nandur Madhmeshwar wetland has been formed by shallow backwaters of Nandur
Madhmeshwar dam and is known as Maharashtra ‘s Bharatpur.
• It lies in the 100 sq km Nandur Madhameshwar sanctuary formed in 1986.
• Nandur Madhameshwar boasts of threatened plants like Indian sandalwood,
threatened birds like Indian Spotted Eagle, Eastern Imperial Eagle, Common Pochard
etc
9. Parasnath:
• Parasnath is a mountain peak in the Parasnath Range. It is located towards the
eastern end of the Chota Nagpur Plateau in the Giridih district of the Indian state of
Jharkhand, India. The hill is named after Lord Parshvanatha, the 23rd Tirthankara.
10. Rushikulya River:
• The Rushikulya River is one of the major rivers in the state of Odisha and covers
entire catchment area in the districts of Kandhamal and Ganjam of Odisha.
• The Rushikulya originates at an elevation of about 1000 metres from Daringbadi
hills of the Eastern Ghats range.
• The place from where the river originates, Daringbadi is called the 'Kashmir of Odisha'.
• The river meets the Bay of Bengal at Puruna Bandha in Ganjam.
• Its tributaries are the Baghua, the Dhanei, the Badanadi etc.
• Gahirmatha marine sanctuary and Rushikulya rookery coast in Ganjam district are
main Olive Ridley Nesting sites in Odisha.
• After 7 years, recently over one lakh turtles have laid eggs along Rushikulya coast.
MAP - 15
MAP - 16
1. Daulat Beg Oldi (DBO):-

Why in News:- 255 km strategic Darbuk-Shyok-DBO road is expected to be completed this year.
Location and Significance:- DBO is a Plateau at an altitude of 16000 feet. It is India;s northernmost
corner.
From DSDBO road, a road branches off towards Galwan Valley. This branch road has prompted the
recent standoff in Galwan.

2. Subarnarekha River:-
Why in News:- Recently Cyclone Yass prompted fears of floods in its course.
Location and Significance:- It originates from the Ranchi plateau in Jharkhand forming the boundary
between W Bengal and Odisha in its lower course. An all weather port is also being constructed on
the river mouth on the Bay of Bengal.

3. Kamakhya Temple:-
Why in News:- Famous Ambubachi festival has been called off for thr second straight year due to
COVID 19. Location and Significance:- Temple is situated on the Nilachal Hills, whose northern face
sloped down the river Brahmaputra. It is one of the 51 shaktipeeths for the followers of Shakti Cult.

4. Ontigondulu:-
Why in News:- Recently Karnataka government approved the construction of Mekedatu balancing
reservoir, that has been proposed to store water for drinking purposes.
Location and Significance:- Ontigondulu is situated at Ramganga district in Karnataka. It is in the
midst of couveery wildlife sanctuary, 100 km away from Bengaluru. Mekadatu is situated along
Cauvery is being objected by TamilNadu government on account of it being antithetical to final
order of the Cauvery water dispute tribunal.

5. Diphu Pass:-

A mountain pass in Arunachal Pradesh around the area of disputed tri point borders of India, China
and Myanmar. It lies on the McMohan line. It is an important land route between India and
Myanmar and remain open throughout the year.

6. Paradip Port:-
Why in News:- An interministerial panel has approved a proposal for deepening & optimization of
inner harbor facilities of the Paradip Port trust.
It is a major natural deep water port under Govt of India, on the east coast in Odisha. It is situated at
the mouth of Mahanadi river.

7. Mount Girnar:-
Why in News:- Recently PM Narendra Modi inaugurated Girnar ropeway (2.3km) on mount Girnar.
Location and Significance:- Girnar is an ancient hill in Junagarh, Gujarat. It is important pilgrimage
site for both Hinduism and Jainism. It is believed that Lord Neminath (22nd Tirthankar) attained
nirvana in this region. Junagarh rock inscription of Rudradaman is located near Junagarh. This
inscription is dated shortly after 150CE.
8. Bhitarkanika National Park:-
Why in News:- Notable devastation reported in Bhitarkanika NP & Mangroves due to cyclone Yaas.
Location:- Located in Kendrapara district in the state of Odisha. It is also a Ramsar site since 2002.
Park is inundated by a number of rivers vis. Brahmani, Batarni, Dhamra & Pathshala. It is home of
saltwater Crocodiles, and believed to house 70% of India’s total population of that.

9. Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary:-

Sanctuary is part of the Godavari estuary situated in Andhra Pradesh. It has extensive Mangroves
and dry deciduous tropical forest. It is second largest stretch of Mangrove forests in India. The
sanctuary has an 18 km long spit which is a prominent nesting site of olive ridley sea turtles. It also
houses some critically endangered species like white backed vulture & the long billed vultures.

10. Dzukou Valley:-

Why in News :- Recently wild fire raged the valley for almostr 2 weeks in January 2021.
Location and Significance:- It is locates at the border of Nagaland and Manipur. Popularly known
as the valley of flower. It is one of the most popular trekking spots in the north east hence hence
an attraction to torists. This valley is home of native Angami people. Valley is source of conflict
between local tribes and the state governments of Manipur/Nagaland.
MAP - 17
(i) Depsang Plains:
Why in news: Recently, India and China have held talks at the Major General-level to discuss issues
concerning the strategic Depsang Plains.
Geographical Location and Significance:- The Depsang Plains represent a high-altitude gravelly plain
at the northwest portion of the disputed Aksai Chin region of Kashmir, divided into Indian and
Chinese administered portions across Line of Actual Control. India controls the western portion of the
plains as part of Ladakh, whereas the eastern portion is controlled by China (and claimed by India).
The area sees frequent tension between China and India.

(ii) Indravati River:

Source: Dandakaranya Range, Kalahandi, Odisha Flows Through:-Odisha Chattisgarh Maharashtra
Indaravati is left bank tributary of River Godavari. It is known as the "lifeline" of the Kalahandi,
Nabarangapur, of Odisha & Bastar district of Chhattisgarh, one of the greenest districts in India.
Indravati Dam constructed on this river near Mukhiguda, Kalahandi is one of the largest Dam in India
as well as Asia. It is the largest dam in eastern India which produces 600MW of electricity.

(iii) Baghjan:
Why in News:- Recently, a gas leak has occurred at Baghjan well in Assam following a blowout.
Location and Significance:- The Baghjan well is a purely gas-producing well in Tinsukia district of
Assam. It is at an aerial distance of 900 metres from the Dibru-Saikhowa National Park.

(iv) Shivanasamudra Falls:

Shivanasamudra Fall is a waterfall in Chamarajanagar district of Karnataka. It is situated along the
river Kaveri. The island town of Shivanasamudra divides the river into twin waterfalls. This creates the
fourth largest island in the course of the river. A group of ancient temples is located here. India's
second hydro-electric power station is located at the waterfall and is still functional.

(v) Sahibganj:
Why in News:- Recently, Prime Minister has inaugurated India’s second riverine Multi Modal
terminal built at Sahibganj in Jharkhand.
This is being constructed on National Waterway-1 (River Ganga) under Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP)
aided by World Bank. The First MultiModal Terminal has been constructed at Varanasi over River
Ganga.

(vi) Nokrek:
Nokrek National Park, the core area of Nokrek Biosphere Reserve, is a national park located at
approximately 2 km away from Tura Peak in West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya, . UNESCO added
the Nokrek Biosphere Reserve to its list of Biosphere Reserves in May 2009. The entire area is
mountainous and Nokrek is the highest peak of the Garo hills, rising up 1,412 metres. Shifting
cultivation is the principal and most important economic activity and this form of agriculture is
practised on 17% of Nokrek’s area by 85% of the population. Today, Garo tribes dominate the area.
However, other tribes, such as the Banias or Hajjons, also exist in the area.
(vii) Tiruppadaimarathur:
Tiruppadaimarathur Conservation Reserve is an IUCN Category V protected bird nesting area in
Tiruppadaimarathur village, Tirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu, South India. It was the first Conservation
Reserve to be established in India.

(viii) Keetham Lake:

It is a scenic lake just outside Agra located within the Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary. Keetham Lake is
pentagonal in shape. There are artificially created islands for shelter and breeding grounds to the
migratory birds. It is today home to more than 165 species of migratory and resident birds. It is the
same place that inspired the famed poet Soordas to compose the “Bhakti Kavya” one of the finest
pieces of devotional poetry. The Keetham lake recently has been added to the list of Ramsar sites.

(ix) Nagarhole National Park:

Why in News:- Recently, the Karnataka Forest Department has decided to put in place a traffic
monitoring mechanism along the roads adjacent to Nagarahole National Park.
About:
 It is also known as ‘Rajiv Gandhi National Park’ lies in the Western Ghats and is a part of the
Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
 It was established as a wildlife sanctuary was upgraded into a national park in 1988. It is also a
declared Tiger reserve under Project Tiger.
 The Nagarahole River flows through the park, which joins the Kabini River which also is a
boundary between Nagarahole and Bandipur Ntional Park.
 Flora: The vegetation consists mainly of moist deciduous forests with predominating trees of
teak and rosewood.
 Fauna: Asian elephants, chital (spotted deer), Indian mouse deer, gaur, stripe-necked and ruddy
mongooses, grey langur, bonnet macaque, Asian wild dog, leopard, tiger, sloth bear among
others.

(x) Bhagalpur:
It is a city of on the southern banks of the river Ganges in the state of Bihar. Bhagalpur is Known as
the "Silk City". Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary is established near the town. It is pilgrimage
site of Buddhists (Budhanath Temple), Jains (Shri Champapur Digamber Jain Temple), and muslims
(Khanqah-e-Shahbazia, Shrine of sufi saint).