UPSC Mains 2023 GS3 Q8 — Environmental Pollution
What is oil pollution? What are its impacts on the marine ecosystem? In what way is oil pollution particularly harmful for a country like India? (Answer in 150 words )
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- What isIn what way
- Scope keywords
- oil pollutionimpacts on the marine ecosystemparticularly harmfulcountry like India
- Implicit sub-parts
- Definition and main sources of oil pollution (accidental spills vs. operational discharge)
- Biological and chemical consequences on marine flora and fauna
- Geopolitical and economic vulnerability specific to India's coastline and energy dependency
- Impact on India's blue economy and vulnerable coastal communities
- Common pitfalls
- Defining oil pollution only as tanker spills while ignoring ballast water and refinery runoff
- Focusing only on dead fish/birds and missing the impact on coral reefs and mangroves
- Failing to mention India's specific geographic vulnerabilities like the proximity to major global oil shipping lanes (SLOCs)
- Neglecting the economic impact on India's artisanal fishing sector and salt production
- Dimensions required
- EcologicalEconomicGeographicSocio-economic
- Marks allocation hint
Allocate 20 words for a crisp definition. Use 60 words to categorize marine impacts into biological and habitat-based effects. Dedicate the remaining 70 words to India-specific factors like the 7516km coastline, proximity to the Persian Gulf routes, and the impact on the 'Blue Economy' and food security.
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