अंडमान सागर में नए समुद्री संरक्षित क्षेत्र (MPA) की घोषणा
पर्यावरण मंत्रालय ने समुद्री जैव विविधता की रक्षा के लिए अंडमान और निकोबार द्वीप समूह के पास एक नए समुद्री संरक्षित क्षेत्र की स्थापना की है।
2-Minute Summary (TL;DR)
- A new Marine Protected Area (MPA) has been established in the Andaman Sea, near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, covering approximately 500 sq km.
- The MPA aims to protect marine biodiversity, including coral reefs and breeding grounds of endangered species like dugongs and sea turtles.
- Commercial fishing and mining activities are strictly prohibited within the MPA's boundaries.
- This initiative aligns with India's 'Blue Economy' policy, promoting sustainable use of marine resources.
- The MPA is expected to boost eco-tourism and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities.
- It contributes to India's commitment to national and international conservation targets, including the '30x30' goal.
- The announcement was made by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in April 2026.
- The protected zone will serve as a crucial sanctuary for marine life, aiding in population recovery and ecosystem health.
How This Topic is Tested in Competitive Exams
| Exam | Frequency | Approx. Marks | What Gets Asked |
|---|---|---|---|
| UPSC / State PCS | Very High | 12–20 | Environment and Ecology is a separate section in UPSC Prelims. GS-III includes environment, climate change, and disaster management. |
| SSC (CGL / CHSL / MTS) | High | 3–5 | National parks, Ramsar sites, pollution levels, and climate summits appear in SSC GK. |
| State PCS / PSC | High | 5–8 | State PCS papers test both central environment policy and state-specific conservation achievements. |
Key Facts to Remember: अंडमान सागर में नए समुद्री संरक्षित क्षेत्र (MPA) की घोषणा
- A new Marine Protected Area (MPA) has been established in the Andaman Sea, near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, covering approximately 500 sq km.
- The MPA aims to protect marine biodiversity, including coral reefs and breeding grounds of endangered species like dugongs and sea turtles.
- Commercial fishing and mining activities are strictly prohibited within the MPA's boundaries.
- This initiative aligns with India's 'Blue Economy' policy, promoting sustainable use of marine resources.
- The MPA is expected to boost eco-tourism and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities.
- It contributes to India's commitment to national and international conservation targets, including the '30x30' goal.
- The announcement was made by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in April 2026.
- The protected zone will serve as a crucial sanctuary for marine life, aiding in population recovery and ecosystem health.
Practice Questions
Q1. What is the primary purpose of the newly established Marine Protected Area (MPA) in the Andaman Sea?
- To promote commercial fishing activities
- To allow for unrestricted mining operations
- To conserve marine biodiversity and protect critical habitats
- To establish naval bases for defense purposes
Explanation: The MPA is designed to safeguard the rich marine life and fragile ecosystems of the Andaman Sea, specifically focusing on protecting coral reefs and endangered species from harmful human activities.
Q2. Which of the following endangered species are specifically mentioned as beneficiaries of the new MPA?
- Blue Whales and Sharks
- Dugongs (Sea Cows) and Sea Turtles
- Dolphins and Penguins
- Octopuses and Jellyfish
Explanation: The announcement explicitly states that the MPA will provide protection for the breeding and foraging grounds of dugongs (often referred to as sea cows) and various species of sea turtles, which are considered endangered.
Q3. What key activities are strictly prohibited within the boundaries of the new MPA?
- Recreational diving and snorkeling
- Scientific research and monitoring
- Commercial fishing and mining
- Small-scale artisanal fishing and tourism
Explanation: To ensure effective conservation, the MPA declaration includes a complete ban on commercial fishing and mining operations, which are considered the most detrimental activities to marine ecosystems.
Q4. The establishment of this MPA aligns with which of India's national policies?
- Make in India Initiative
- Digital India Program
- Ayushman Bharat Yojana
- Blue Economy Policy
Explanation: The initiative is a direct implementation of India's 'Blue Economy' policy, which aims to sustainably utilize ocean resources for economic growth while ensuring the preservation of marine ecosystems.
Q5. What is the approximate area covered by the new Marine Protected Area in the Andaman Sea?
- Approximately 50 square kilometers
- Approximately 500 square kilometers
- Approximately 5,000 square kilometers
- Approximately 50,000 square kilometers
Explanation: The newly announced Marine Protected Area will span an area of roughly 500 square kilometers, encompassing vital marine habitats in the Andaman Sea.
How to Prepare Environment for Government Exams — अंडमान सागर में नए समुद्री संरक्षित क्षेत्र (MPA)…
Ramsar sites and World Heritage Site additions are announced annually. Compile the year's additions — they are direct exam questions.
For UPSC, understand the international treaty context: Paris Agreement, CBD, CITES, Ramsar — know what each treaty does.
Climate news = policy news. Always note the government response to any environmental event — that's what UPSC Mains tests.
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