DAILY NEWS ANALYSIS

A meteorologist has recently warned of a possible Sudden Stratospheric Warming (SSW) event, which may result in below-average temperatures across parts of the United States later this month. Such events are known to trigger severe winter conditions in mid-latitude regions.

What is Sudden Stratospheric Warming?

Definition

Sudden Stratospheric Warming refers to a rapid and abnormal increase in temperatures in the stratosphere, especially over the polar regions. This warming leads to a weakening or distortion of the polar vortex, a large mass of cold air usually confined near the poles.

Mechanism of Sudden Stratospheric Warming

Role of Rossby Waves

The process begins when large-scale atmospheric waves, called Rossby waves, are pushed upward from the lower atmosphere into the stratosphere.

Disruption of the Polar Vortex

When these Rossby waves become strong enough, they break over the polar vortex, similar to ocean waves breaking on a shore. This causes:

• Weakening of the westerly winds circulating around the polar vortex

• In extreme cases, a reversal of wind direction from westerly to easterly

As a result, the stratosphere warms rapidly.

Movement of Cold Air

The weakening of the polar vortex can lead to its:

• Displacement away from the pole, or

• Splitting into multiple vortices

This allows cold Arctic air to spill southward into the mid-latitudes, leading to cold waves.

Polar Vortex: Key Features

Definition

The polar vortex is a large region of low pressure and extremely cold air that surrounds both the North and South Poles.

Vertical Extent

The polar vortex extends from the tropopause (the boundary between the troposphere and stratosphere) through the stratosphere and into the mesosphere, reaching altitudes of more than 50 km.

Seasonal Behaviour

The polar vortex:

• Exists throughout the year

• Weakens during summer

• Strengthens during winter

During winter, particularly in the Northern Hemisphere, it often expands and influences weather patterns.

Role of Jet Streams

Jet Stream Interaction

The polar vortex interacts with the jet stream, which consists of narrow bands of strong winds flowing at about 30,000 feet (9,100 metres) above the Earth’s surface.

This interaction frequently causes southward movement of cold Arctic air, resulting in extreme winter weather.

Global Impact of SSW Events

Affected Regions

Although commonly associated with the United States, Sudden Stratospheric Warming events also affect:

• Europe

• Asia

These regions may experience cold surges, snowfall, and prolonged winter conditions following an SSW event.

The Indian Navy has recently deployed INS Gharial, along with three other naval vessels, under Operation Sagar Bandhu to provide Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) to the cyclone-affected regions of Sri Lanka. This deployment reflects India’s commitment to regional cooperation and its role as a first responder in the Indian Ocean Region.

About INS Gharial

INS Gharial (L23) is a Magar-class amphibious warfare vessel of the Indian Navy. It is the second indigenously built Landing Ship Tank (Large), highlighting India’s growing shipbuilding capabilities. The vessel is among the largest ships in the Indian Navy and is designed primarily for amphibious operations and logistics support.

Construction and Commissioning

INS Gharial was constructed by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE). The ship was commissioned on 14 February 1997 and currently forms part of the Eastern Fleet under the Eastern Naval Command.

Operational and Combat Capabilities

INS Gharial has significant operational versatility. It is capable of carrying two helicopters, with one accommodated in the hangar and another on the deck. The vessel can transport up to 10 Vijayanta tanks in its underbelly and can also carry four Landing Craft Assault (LCA) slung aloft.

In terms of combat capability, the ship is equipped with guns and rocket launchers. These weapons are used to soften hostile beaches before amphibious landings, enabling tanks and assault troops to advance safely during military operations.

Strategic Significance

INS Gharial plays a crucial role in amphibious warfare, disaster relief operations, and maritime security. Its deployment under Operation Sagar Bandhu demonstrates the Indian Navy’s ability to combine military preparedness with humanitarian assistance, thereby strengthening India’s strategic presence and diplomatic outreach in the region.

The 11th edition of the India International Science Festival (IISF) is being held in Panchkula, Haryana. The festival serves as a major national platform to promote scientific temper, innovation, and public engagement with science.

About India International Science Festival (IISF)

The India International Science Festival was launched in 2015 with the objective of bringing together scientists, researchers, students, policymakers, and the general public from India and abroad. The festival promotes collaboration, interaction, and the joy of doing science for the wellbeing of India and humanity, guided by the spirit of Swadeshi science.

Mission of IISF

The core mission of IISF is to bridge traditional knowledge systems with modern scientific research. It aims to strengthen the link between India’s indigenous knowledge heritage and contemporary scientific inquiry, thereby fostering inclusive and sustainable scientific development.

Key Facts about India International Science Festival 2025

• IISF 2025 is organized by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).

• It is coordinated by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune.

• The theme of IISF 2025 is “Vigyan Se Samruddhi: for Aatmanirbhar Bharat”, emphasizing the role of science in achieving self-reliance and prosperity.

• The festival will host more than 150 technical and thematic sessions covering various aspects of science, technology, and innovation.

Major Focus Areas of IISF 2025

IISF 2025 will focus on five broad thematic areas:

1. Science, Technology, and Ecology of North-West India and the Himalayan Region

2. Science for Society and Education

3. Atmanirbhar Bharat through Science and Technology

4. Biotechnology and Bio-economy

5. Integration of Traditional Knowledge with Modern Science

Significance of IISF

The India International Science Festival plays a crucial role in promoting scientific awareness, encouraging innovation, and popularizing science among the masses. By integrating traditional knowledge with modern science, IISF supports India’s vision of sustainable development and self-reliance.

The seventh session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) is currently taking place in Nairobi, Kenya. The session focuses on strengthening global cooperation to address pressing environmental challenges and promote sustainable development.

About the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA)

Overview

The UN Environment Assembly is the world’s highest-level decision-making body on environmental matters. It plays a central role in shaping global environmental governance and setting international priorities for environmental protection.

Membership

UNEA has universal membership, comprising all 193 United Nations Member States. In addition, it ensures the full participation of major groups and stakeholders, including civil society, the private sector, and scientific communities.

Meetings

The Assembly convenes the ministers of environment from across the world in Nairobi, Kenya, once every two years. Nairobi also serves as the headquarters of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).

Background and Establishment

UNEA was established in 2012 as an outcome of the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), held in Brazil. Its creation marked an important step in elevating environmental issues to the highest political level within the UN system.

Functions of the UN Environment Assembly

Policy and Agenda Setting

The Assembly:

• Sets the global environmental agenda

• Provides overarching policy guidance

• Defines policy responses to emerging environmental challenges, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution

Review and Guidance

UNEA undertakes:

• Policy review and dialogue

• Exchange of experiences and best practices among countries

• Strategic guidance on the future direction of UNEP

Partnerships and Resource Mobilisation

The Assembly fosters:

• International partnerships to achieve environmental goals

• Mobilisation of financial and technical resources for environmental action

Organisational Structure

UNEA Bureau

The UN Environment Assembly consists of:

• One President

• Eight Vice Presidents

Together, they form the UNEA Bureau, which provides leadership and oversees the functioning of the Assembly.

UNEA-7 (2025)

Theme

The theme of the Seventh UN Environment Assembly (2025) is:
“Advancing sustainable solutions for a resilient planet.”

This theme underscores the need for innovative, inclusive, and science-based solutions to build environmental resilience and achieve sustainable development goals.

Key Outcomes of the Sixth UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-6)

Ministerial Declaration

UNEA-6 reaffirmed global commitment to addressing the “triple planetary crisis”, namely climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. This commitment was formally expressed through the adoption of a Ministerial Declaration, highlighting the urgency of coordinated international action.

Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEA) Day

For the first time, 28 February 2024 was observed as Multilateral Environmental Agreements Day.
This day was dedicated to recognizing the importance of international agreements addressing major environmental challenges, including climate change, biodiversity conservation, and chemical and waste management.

Adoption of Draft Resolutions

UNEA-6 adopted several draft resolutions aimed at strengthening global environmental governance. These included resolutions on:

• Combating sand and dust storms

• Environmentally sound management of chemicals and waste

• International cooperation on air pollution

• Promotion of sustainable lifestyles

These resolutions reflect a comprehensive approach to tackling both local and transboundary environmental issues.

Reports Released at UNEA-6

Global Resource Outlook 2024

The Global Resource Outlook 2024 warned that without decisive global action to curb consumption:

• Extraction of natural resources could increase by 60% from 2020 levels

• Such an increase would significantly exacerbate climate change

• It would also intensify biodiversity loss and risks to human health

The report emphasised the need for a transition towards resource efficiency and sustainable consumption patterns.

Global Waste Management Outlook 2024

The Global Waste Management Outlook 2024 highlighted alarming trends in waste generation and costs:

• Municipal solid waste is projected to rise from 2.3 billion tonnes in 2023 to 3.8 billion tonnes by 2050

• The direct cost of waste management is expected to almost double by 2050, increasing from about USD 252 billion in 2020

The report called for improved waste reduction, recycling, and circular economy practices.

Used Heavy-Duty Vehicles and the Environment Report

This report highlighted:

• The rising emissions from used heavy-duty vehicles

• Their negative impacts on climate, air quality, and public health

It stressed the need for stricter emission norms and sustainable transport solutions, particularly in developing countries.

Awards Announced at UNEA-6

Young Champions of the Earth Award

The Young Champions of the Earth Award, introduced in 2017, is a flagship youth engagement initiative of UNEP.
Under this initiative:

• Young people aged 18–30 years are selected from every region of the world

• They are recognised for their innovative solutions and leadership in addressing environmental challenges

The award aims to empower youth as key agents of environmental change.