Recently, agreement on the equitable use of water resources from the Nile River basin has come into force despite the notable opposition of Egypt.

About Nile Basin

• The Nile is the world’s longest river and has a drainage area of nearly 10% of the landmass of the African continent.
• Runs through 11 countries from south to north.
• 2 main tributaries: White Nile (Originate from Burundi and Rwanda) and Blue Nile (originating in Ethiopia).
• Other tributaries: Sobat River, Atbara River, Bahr el Ghazal, etc.

A recent study by Indian Institute of Geomagnetism establishes the role of volcanism in shaping space weather.

Key findings of the study

• Ionospheric Disturbance: Volcanic eruptions produce strong atmospheric gravity waves triggering formation of Equatorial Plasma Bubbles (EPBs).
  • EPBs, normally observed in the equatorial ionosphere, are depletions in ionospheric plasma density formed during post-sunset hours.
• Impacts Satellite Communication and Navigation Systems: Generated EPBs can impact satellite communication and satellite-based technologies.

Volcanism and its Impacts 

• A volcano is an opening in Earth's crust through which lava, ash, and gases erupt. Recent incidents include Mount Ruang (Indonesia, 2024), Whakaari/White Island (New Zealand, 2024), etc.

Positive Impacts of Volcanic activities

• Short periods of cooling Earth’s atmosphere: Particles from volcanoes can cause temporary cooling by shading incoming solar radiation
• Source of geothermal energy: can provide free electricity for locals
• Improvement in soil fertility by ejected volcanic ash
• Provides Mining opportunities as magma brings valuable minerals to the surface.
• Others: Tourism potential; ash acts as soil fertilizer, etc. 

Negative Consequences of Volcanic activity

• Impact on Climate: With the release of dust, ash, and other gases into the atmosphere.
• Lead to disasters such as Tsunami (E.g. Tonga eruptions (2022) 
• Others: Leads to damage of lives, property, habitat, and landscapes

First batch of pilgrims viewed Mount Kailash (abode of Lord Shiva) from Old Lipulekh pass. 

• Previously, pilgrims had to travel to Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) to view the peak.

About Lipulekh Pass 

• Location: International Mountain pass, above Kalapani valley, forming tri-junction between India, Nepal, and TAR (China). 
  • Situated in Vyas valley, Pithoragarh district, Uttarakhand inhabited by Bhutiya people. 
• Significance: Ancient trade and pilgrimage route. 
  • Closed in 1962 by India fearing Chinese incursions and was reopened in 2020.