GK Express of 27/03/2026

🧠 Thought of the Day

“The environment is where we all meet; where we all have a mutual interest; it is the one thing all of us share.”

— Lady Bird Johnson

📘 Concept of the Day

Conventional and Non-Conventional Sources of Energy

Why is this Topic Important?

Energy resources are essential for economic development. The shift from conventional to non-conventional energy is important for sustainable development and climate change mitigation. This topic is important for UPSC under Geography and Environment.

What are Conventional Sources of Energy?

Conventional energy sources are traditional sources of energy that have been used for a long time.

Non-renewable – resources that cannot be replaced quickly after use.

Examples

Coal
Petroleum (oil)
Natural gas
Hydropower (large dams)

Features of Conventional Energy

Limited availability
Cause environmental pollution
High energy output
Well-developed technology

What are Non-Conventional Sources of Energy?

Non-conventional energy sources are alternative and renewable sources of energy that are eco-friendly.

Renewable Energy – energy that is naturally replenished and does not get exhausted.

Examples

Solar energy
Wind energy
Biomass energy
Tidal energy
Geothermal energy

Features of Non-Conventional Energy

Renewable and sustainable
Environment-friendly
Low pollution
Initial cost is high but long-term benefits

Difference Between Conventional and Non-Conventional Energy

Conventional: Non-renewable; Non-conventional: Renewable
Conventional: Polluting; Non-conventional: Clean energy
Conventional: Limited; Non-conventional: Abundant
Conventional: Mature technology; Non-conventional: Developing technology

Importance of Non-Conventional Energy

Reduces dependence on fossil fuels
Helps in reducing climate change
Promotes sustainable development
Ensures energy security

Energy Security – uninterrupted availability of energy at affordable prices.

Government Initiatives in India

National Solar Mission
International Solar Alliance
Wind Energy Programs
Promotion of biofuels

Simple Example

Using solar panels on rooftops reduces electricity bills and dependence on coal-based power plants.

🤔 Think About This

Tap a question to reveal the answer

Q. Why are mangroves considered 'Coastal Guardians'? Explain their importance.

Introduction:
Mangroves are salt-tolerant vegetation found in coastal areas, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. They grow in intertidal zones where land meets the sea and play a crucial role in protecting coastal ecosystems.

Why Mangroves are called 'Coastal Guardians':

1. Protection from Cyclones and Storm Surges: Mangroves act as natural barriers by reducing the speed and impact of strong winds and waves. Example: Sundarbans protect coastal areas of West Bengal during cyclones.

2. Prevention of Coastal Erosion: Their dense root systems bind soil and prevent erosion caused by tides and currents.

3. Flood Control: Mangroves absorb excess water and reduce flooding during heavy rains and storms.

4. Biodiversity Support: They provide habitat and breeding grounds for fish, crabs, birds, and other marine organisms.

5. Carbon Sequestration: Mangroves store large amounts of carbon, helping in climate change mitigation.

6. Livelihood Support: They support fishing, tourism, and provide resources for local communities.

Threats:

• Coastal development and deforestation.
• Pollution and climate change.
• Rising sea levels.

Conclusion:
Mangroves are vital natural protectors of coastal regions. Conserving and restoring them is essential for disaster management, biodiversity protection, and sustainable coastal development.

📝 Let’s Write an Exam

Q.1 Which of the following acts was enacted by the Indian Parliament for the protection of plants and animal species in 1972?

Environment Protection Act

Forest Conservation Act

Wildlife Protection Act

Biological Diversity Act

The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, provides a legal framework for the protection of various species of wild animals and plants, management of their habitats, and regulation of trade.

Q.2 The 'Montreal Protocol' is an international treaty designed to protect which of the following?

Wetlands

Endangered Species

Ozone Layer

Coral Reefs

The Montreal Protocol (1987) aims at phasing out the production of substances that are responsible for ozone depletion, such as CFCs.

✍️ Answer These Questions

1. Name the state flower and animal of Andhra Pradesh.

2. Which Indian state has the highest percentage of forest cover according to the ISFR 2021 report?

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