2023 08 03
Table of Contents:
GS Paper 2:
- Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023
- WHO Report on the Global Tobacco Epidemic, 2023
- Mental health issues in Security forces
- South Asia’s Integration
Content for Mains Enrichment
- Exposure of children to the internet
- JALDOST Airboat
Facts for Prelims (FFP)
- Palaeo Proxies
- The doctrine of ‘reasonableness’
- Justice G. Rohini Commission
- Mediation Bill, 2021
- MASI Portal
- Polypills
- Western Tragopan
- Massive extinct whale ‘may be the heaviest animal that ever lived’
Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023
GS Paper 2
Syllabus: Indian Federalism, Centre-State Relations
Source: IE
Context: The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023, was introduced in the Lok Sabha, leading to opposition protests and debates.
About the Bill:
The bill aimed to replace the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Ordinance, 2023, which deals with the control of services in Delhi.
Background of the Issue:
The Delhi government and Lieutenant Governor have been in a legal battle since 2015 over control of “services” in Delhi. The Supreme Court gave a split verdict in 2019, and a five-judge Constitution Bench recently (May 2023) granted more powers to the Delhi government over services. It ordered that the Delhi government will have control over administrative services other than matters related to public order, police, and land.
To counter it, the central government passed the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Ordinance, 2023. The ordinance excluded “services” from the purview of the Delhi legislature and conferred LG with more powers. It will now be replaced by the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023.
Key features of the new bill:
| Aspect | Description |
| Purpose | To amend certain provisions of the Government of NCT of Delhi Act, 1991. |
| Establishment of NCCSA | Introduces the National Capital Civil Services Authority (NCCSA) to provide recommendations to the LG on service matters. |
| Composition of NCCSA | NCCSA consists of the Chief Minister of Delhi (Chairperson), Principal Home Secretary, and Chief Secretary of the Delhi Govt. |
| Empowerment of Central Govt. | Central Govt. empowered to make rules regarding the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi’s affairs, officer & employee functions, terms, and conditions. |
| Discretionary Power to LG | LG granted discretionary power over matters beyond Delhi Assembly’s competence or requiring judicial/quasi-judicial action. |
Concerns regarding the bill:
| Concerns | Description |
| Centralization of Power | Critics argue that the Bill centralizes power in the hands of the LG, diminishing the elected government’s authority. |
| Bypassing the Legislative Assembly | Opponents claim that the Bill bypasses the elected Legislative Assembly’s decision-making role. |
| Impact on Cooperative Federalism | Critics argue that the bill is undermining the democratic mandate and interfering with local governance. |
| Potential for Conflict | Some fear that discretionary power given to LG could lead to conflicts between the elected govt. and LG. |
| Constitutional Validity | Questions arise about the constitutional validity of the Bill and its alignment with federal principles. |
| Curtailing Delhi Government’s Autonomy | Critics worry that the Bill might curtail the autonomy of the Delhi government in policy-making. |
How UTs are administered?
The Union Territories (Uts) in India are administered by the President through an appointed administrator, who represents the President and exercises administrative powers in the UT. In some Uts, such as Delhi and Puducherry, the administrator holds significant powers, including the ability to make laws and regulations for the UT, while in others, the administrator’s powers are limited to providing advice to the elected government.
Special provision for Delhi UT:
Special provisions have been made for certain Uts, such as Puducherry, Delhi, and Jammu and Kashmir (yet to be constituted), which have a legislative assembly and a Council of Ministers headed by a Chief Minister. The legislative assembly of these Uts has the power to make laws with respect to matters enumerated in List II or List III in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution insofar as these matters are applicable in relation to the UT.
However, some entries in List II, such as public order, police, and land, are not within the legislative competence of the legislative assembly of Delhi.
Insta Links:
Centre-Delhi row heads to Constitution Bench
Mains Links:
Whether the Supreme Court Judgement (July 2018) can settle the political tussle between the Lt. Governor and the elected government of Delhi? Examine. (UPSC 2018)
Prelims Links:
In the context of India, which one of the following is the characteristic appropriate for bureaucracy? (UPSC 2020)
- An agency for widening the scope of parliamentary democracy
- An agency for strengthening the structure of federalism
- An agency for facilitating political stability and economic growth
- An agency for the implementation of public policy
Ans: 4
August 3, 2023 /03 August 2023, 2023, Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, Today's Article
WHO Report on the Global Tobacco Epidemic, 2023
GS Paper 2
Syllabus: Social Justice, Health
Context: The new WHO report on tobacco control highlights global progress, including the implementation of MPOWER measures.
What is the MPOWER measure?
MPOWER measures are tobacco control strategies developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2008. They include:
- M=Monitor tobacco use
- P=Protect people from tobacco smoke
- O=Offer help to quit tobacco
- W=Warn about tobacco dangers
- E=Enforce bans on tobacco advertising
- R=Raise taxes on tobacco products
Key highlights of the Report:
| Highlights | Description |
| Global Smoking Decline | Worldwide, with 300 million fewer smokers today, the prevalence of smoking declined from 22.8% (2007) to 17% (2021) |
| Implementation Progress | Over 5 billion people (71% of the global population) are protected by at least one MPOWER measure |
| Countries Implementing MPOWER | The number of countries implementing at least one MPOWER measure increased from 44 (2008) to 151 (2022). Only 4 counties (Brazil, Turkey, Netherlands, and Mauritius) have implemented all measures. |
| E-cigarettes Warning | WHO warns against the aggressive promotion of e-cigarettes as a safer alternative, especially for youth |
| Second-hand Smoke Impact | Second-hand smoke exposure is linked to over 1 million non-smoker deaths annually, various health issues |
| India’s Achievements | India excels in health warning labels and tobacco dependence treatment; bans sale of e-cigarettes |
| 27% reduction in smoking in public places in Bengaluru due to enforcement and communication efforts | |
| Recommendations | Need for warnings on OTT platforms, stronger enforcement, bans on loose cigarette sales, and increased fines; Bans on tobacco advertising can minimize its consumption |
| Efforts to reduce second-hand smoking through smoke-free public areas and awareness campaigns |
Impact of tobacco smoking:
| Health Issues Due to Tobacco Smoking | |
| General Population | Cardiovascular diseases, respiratory issues, cancer |
| Children and Adolescents | Respiratory infections, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) |
| Pregnant Women | Pregnancy complications, low birth weight, developmental issues |
| Smokers | Lung cancer, COPD, decreased lung function |
| Second-hand Smokers | Respiratory infections, asthma, heart diseases |
| Workforce and Productivity | Increased sick leave, decreased productivity |
| Low-Income Individuals | The financial burden of tobacco-related health issues |
| Elderly Population | Aggravation of age-related health problems |
| People with Pre-existing | Aggravation of existing conditions like asthma and diabetes |
Key initiatives taken by India:
| Initiatives | Description |
| Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019 | Enacted to combat the use of e-cigarettes, aiming to address their health risks. |
| National Health Policy 2017 | Aims to reduce tobacco use by 30% by 2025 through awareness and preventive measures. |
| Warnings covering 85% area on tobacco product packs | Mandates large health warnings on tobacco product packs to increase awareness. |
| WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control | India is a party to this international treaty, committed to tobacco control measures. |
| Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act 2003 (COTPA 2003) | prohibition of · smoking in public places · advertisement of cigarettes · sale of tobacco products to anyone below the age of 18 years · prohibition of selling areas like schools, colleges, etc. |
| National Tobacco Control Programme and Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan. | |
| 31st May is observed as ‘World No Tobacco Day’ every year to spread awareness about the deadly effects of tobacco consumption. |
Tobacco cultivation in India: It is one of the important cash crops. Today, India is the second-largest crop producer in the world after China.
Insta Links:
Mains Links:
Limiting the discovery of tobacco products can prolong the resistance and not prevent it. India urgently needs a National Tobacco Control Policy with a special focus on children. Comment. (10M)
August 3, 2023 /03 August 2023, Global Tobacco Epidemic, MPOWER, Tobacco, Today's Article
Mental health issues in Security forces
GS2/GS1/GS4 Paper
Syllabus: Social Issues/ Indian Society / Ethics
Source: TOI
Context: An RPF jawan (on the Jaipur-Mumbai Superfast Express) with mental health issues shot and killed passengers, prompting questions about having armed troubled personnel on duty
What is mental health?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is a state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.
Status of issue:
- The suicide rate in the Indian Army is about 8.5 suicides per 100000 people
| Reasons for Prevalence of Mental Health Issues in Uniformed Forces | |
| Tightly Structured Hierarchy | Command-and-control hierarchy system |
| Senior officer as reporting authority | |
| Lack of platform for communicating personal issues | |
| Stress is not Addressed | Signs of stress are often ignored |
| Fear of being perceived as weak | |
| Pressure to conform to “macho” stereotype | |
| Less Recognition for Achievements | Lack of recognition for constabulary |
| Frequent persecution for failures | |
| Tendency towards Alcoholism | Resorting to alcohol/drug abuse for coping |
| Lack of Awareness and Stigma | Lack of awareness about mental health issues |
| The stigma around seeking help for mental health concerns | |
| Separation from Family and Home | Being away from family for extended periods |
| Isolation and loneliness due to duty demands | |
| Job-related Stress and Trauma | Exposure to traumatic events |
| High-stress nature of duties | |
| Poor Working Conditions | Meagre salary and inadequate facilities |
| Lack of timely leaves and allowances |
Some key measures to address mental health issues among uniformed forces:
- Awareness and Training: Conduct regular awareness campaigns and training programs to educate personnel and superiors about mental health, its signs, and the importance of seeking help.
- De-Stigmatization: Work towards creating a culture where seeking mental health support is encouraged and not stigmatized, challenging stereotypes of strength and vulnerability.
- Access to Counseling: Establish confidential counselling services accessible to all personnel, providing a safe space for them to discuss their concerns and receive professional guidance.
- Leadership Involvement: Involve senior officers in mental health initiatives, encouraging open communication, understanding, and proactive support for struggling personnel.
- Early Intervention: Develop a system for early identification of mental health issues through regular assessments, screenings, and peer support mechanisms.
- Promote Work-Life Balance: Implement policies that ensure adequate leaves, balanced work hours, and opportunities for personnel to connect with their families and loved ones.
- Wellness Programs: Offer wellness programs that focus on stress reduction, resilience-building, mindfulness, and coping strategies to enhance mental well-being.
- Crisis Response: Develop protocols for responding to crisis situations, including access to immediate psychological support for personnel involved in traumatic incidents.
- Peer Support Networks: Establish peer support networks where personnel can openly share their experiences, provide mutual assistance, and foster a sense of camaraderie.
- Family Support: Recognize the role of families in supporting personnel’s mental health; provide resources and counselling to families to help them understand and address these issues.
- Inclusive Policies: Tailor policies and interventions to the diverse needs of personnel, considering factors like gender, age, cultural backgrounds, and ranks.
The government has taken several steps to improve mental health:
- Constitutional Provision: Recognized healthcare as a fundamental right under Article 21.
- Mental HealthCare Act 2017: Ensured access to mental healthcare from government-funded services, reduced use of Section 309 IPC (suicide attempt), and focused on treatment.
- National Mental Health Program (NMHP): Addressed mental disorders and the shortage of professionals since 1982, including modernization of mental hospitals and upgrading psychiatric wings.
- Kiran Helpline: Launched a 24/7 toll-free helpline to provide support for anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, and more.
- Manodarpan: Launched under Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan to offer psychosocial support for students, families, and teachers during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Conclusion:
Addressing mental health issues in uniformed forces is crucial for both the well-being of personnel and the effectiveness of their roles. In this context, Regular sampark sabhas need to be conducted where personnel can air their grievances and proper follow-up action must be taken on all possible issues.
Insta Links:
Mains Links:
Appropriate local community-level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieving ‘Health for All ‘in India. Explain. (UPSC 2018)
Mental health is one of the most neglected social issues in India. Comment.
August 3, 2023 /03 August 2023, Mental health issues in Security forces, Today's Article
South Asia’s Integration
GS Paper 2
Syllabus: International Relations
Source: IE
Context: C. Raja Mohan discusses the evolving economic landscape of South Asia. He highlights recent visits by leaders like Nepal’s Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal and Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe to Delhi, showcasing a shift in South Asian regionalism.
India’s vision of regional economic integration in South Asia is based on enhanced intra-regional trade, investment flows, and regional transport and communication links in South Asia. South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and India’s Neighbourhood First Policy are the two vehicles in this process.
How India’s growing economy is having a positive effect on South Asia?
| Aspect | Description |
| Economic Growth | India’s economy is growing and poised to become the third-largest economy. |
| Trade Volumes | Intra-regional trade grew from 2% in 1990 to 6% now (but compared to ASEAN countries ( over 27% integration, it is still low) |
| Bilateral Trade Potential | India’s exports: $16 billion to Bangladesh, $6 billion to Sri Lanka, and over $8 billion to Nepal in 2022. |
| Cross-Border Connectivity | Major initiatives for cross-border connectivity are complementing trade volumes e.g., trains and bus services with Bangladesh, Nepal |
| Economic Reform | Economic crises in countries like Sri Lanka and Pakistan are pushing for serious economic change. |
| Openness to Trade and Investment | Nepal and Sri Lanka are more open to trade, investment, and connectivity with India. |
| Global Power Rivalry Influence | US-China rivalry and India- China conflict have altered the Subcontinent’s geo-economic dynamics. |
| Support for Regionalism | Western nations are supporting India-centered regionalism and economic integration in the region. |
| Transformational Potential | These factors combined could potentially transform South Asia’s economic landscape. |
South Asian regional integration can overcome political disputes:
- Economic Interdependence: As trade benefits economies, it encourages nations to resolve political issues.
- Sub-Regional Initiatives:g., BMIC, India-Mynmmar trilateral highway, SAFTA.
- People-to-People Contacts: Promoting cultural exchanges, educational programs, and tourism can help build positive relationships among citizens across borders.
- Shared Challenges: Addressing common challenges like climate change, terrorism, and natural disasters requires cooperation.
- Diplomatic Engagement: Confidence-building measures, trust-building initiatives, and regular dialogues can help ease tensions.
- Economic Incentives: Japan’s effort in promoting India-Bangladesh connectivity
India can lead South Asia’s development by:
- Boosting regional trade, connectivity, and investment.
- Providing an ecological blueprint for biodiversity protection and climate response.
- Focusing on regional food security and supply chains.
- Promoting sub-regional initiatives for cooperation.
- Representing South Asian interests in international forums.
Conclusion:
Together the three trends — the region’s new economic openness, India’s vigorous neighbourhood policies, and Western support for an India-centred regionalism in South Asia — could transform the Indian subcontinent’s geo-economic landscape. India’s rising economic tide could help lift all boats in South Asia.
Insta Links:
Mains Links:
Trade integration among South Asian countries will translate into better economic opportunities and shared prosperity for people living in these countries. Elucidate (15M)
Prelims Links:
Consider the following statements: ( UPSC 2020)
- The value of Indo-Sri Lanka trade has consistently increased in the last decade.
- “Textile and textile articles” constitute an important item of trade between India and Bangladesh.
- In the last five years, Nepal has been the largest trading partner of India in South Asia.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans: (b)
Which one among the following South Asian countries has the highest population density? ( UPSC 2009)
(a) India
(b) Nepal
(c) Pakistan
(d) Sri Lanka
Ans: A
August 3, 2023 /03 August 2023, South Asia's Integration, Today's Article
Exposure of children to the internet
Content for Mains Enrichment
Source: TH
China’s Cyberspace Administration has introduced regulations aimed at reducing the time children spend on smartphones. The proposed guidelines:
- Limit minors’ access to most internet services on mobile devices from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
- Restrict internet use to two hours a day for those aged 16-18, one hour a day for ages 8-15, and 40 minutes for children under 8.
Internet addiction among youth can lead to detrimental effects such as reduced academic performance, impaired social interactions, sleep disturbances, mental health issues like anxiety and depression, and decreased physical activity.
The restrictions are part of China’s efforts to combat internet addiction among youth.
Also, read:
UNESCO endorses banning smartphones from schools
Usage: The example can be used in Indian society/ ethics paper.
August 3, 2023 /03 August 2023, Exposure of children to digital devices, Today's Article
JALDOST Airboat
Source: TH
JALDOST is an airboat developed by the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) designed to clean water bodies by removing excess aquatic weeds and floating waste. It features an unsinkable airtight pontoon-type hull and a hybrid propulsion system. JALDOST Mark-2, designed based on BBMP specifications, aims to clean lakes in Bengaluru and collect waste using a steel mesh conveyor system.
Usage: The example can be used in Environment conservation questions related to water pollution.
August 3, 2023 /03 August 2023, JALDOST Airboat, Today's Article
Palaeo Proxies
Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: TH
Context: The article highlights the limitations of temperature estimates from before the invention of thermometers, based on “palaeo proxies.” It calls the claims that a specific day was the warmest in over 100,000 years as scientifically unfounded.
What are Palaeo proxies?
Palaeo proxies, short for paleoclimate proxies, are indirect pieces of evidence that scientists use to infer past climate conditions. Since instrumental climate records (such as thermometer measurements) are only available for a relatively short period, usually a few hundred years, scientists rely on various natural sources to reconstruct climate conditions over longer timescales.
To estimate past temperatures, scientists also use isotopes that undergo steady radioactive decay.
Limitations of these techniques?
Palaeo proxy technique has limitations. It can only provide temperature anomalies on long timescales, such as centuries or thousands of years. Even the best proxies only offer estimates on weekly or seasonal timescales. Additionally, all temperature proxies are local or regional, making global temperature estimates uncertain.
Significance:
- The proxies can help in understanding the response of modern humans to climate change. However, such proxies are not suitable for estimating daily temperatures.
- Climate change is best understood over longer timescales, and making alarmist claims about daily records can jeopardize the credibility of climate action efforts.
August 3, 2023 /03 August 2023, geography, Geological Time scale, GS1, The Holocene climate anomalies, Today's Article
The doctrine of ‘reasonableness’
Source: TH
Context: Israeli courts have invoked the reasonableness doctrine to scrutinize political appointments and executive decisions.
What is The doctrine of ‘reasonableness’?
The ‘reasonableness doctrine is a legal principle used to evaluate the validity of administrative decisions. It assesses whether a decision is extremely unreasonable, based on factors like the consideration of relevant information, proper balancing of factors, and absence of irrelevant influences.
If a decision lacks these qualities, it can be invalidated.
For instance, if a government decision allocates resources without adequately considering the impact on citizens’ well-being, or if a political appointment is made without proper evaluation of the candidate’s qualifications, the ‘reasonableness’ doctrine can be used to challenge and overturn such decisions.
Indian context:
India has a ‘Doctrine of Non-Arbitrariness and Reasonable Classification’ originating from Article 14 (fundamental right to equality to every citizen in the country)
August 3, 2023 /03 August 2023, The doctrine of 'reasonableness', Today's Article
Justice G. Rohini Commission
Source: TH
Context: The Justice G. Rohini Commission, tasked with sub-categorising Other Backward Classes (OBC) caste groups, has submitted its report to the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment after nearly six years.
- Formed in 2017 and led by former Delhi High Court Chief Justice G. Rohini, the commission aimed to examine the concentration of reservation and benefits among dominant OBC caste groups.
- Based on its findings, the commission was to suggest a breakdown of the over 2,600 caste groups on the Central OBC list to ensure a more equitable redistribution of benefits.
Although the report is not out, the commission’s recommendations may involve categorizing the caste groups into broad categories, with the dominant castes receiving the smallest share of the 27% reservation, and historically marginalized groups getting a larger share.
August 3, 2023 /03 August 2023, GS2, Justice G. Rohini Commission for the sub-categorisation of Other Backward Classes (OBC), Polity, reservation, Today's Article
Mediation Bill, 2021
Source: ET
Context: The Rajya Sabha passed the Mediation Bill 2021, which mandates individuals to attempt the settlement of civil or commercial disputes through mediation before approaching any court or tribunal.
- Parties can withdraw from mediation after two sessions, and the mediation process must be completed within 180 days, extendable by another 180 days by mutual consent.
- The Bill also establishes the Mediation Council of India, responsible for registering mediators and recognizing mediation service providers and institutes.
About Mediation:
- Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) method in which a neutral third party, known as a mediator, helps parties in a dispute reach a mutually agreeable resolution.
- Mediation is considered a more cost-effective, efficient, and less adversarial method compared to traditional court litigation.
Significance:
- The bill aims to reduce the backlog of cases in courts, as there are currently five crore pending cases.
- The bill provides a legal framework for mediation and reflects the government’s whole-of-government approach to promoting alternative dispute resolution.
Issues:
- No provisions for enforcing certain internationally mediated settlements.
- Lack of clarity on the qualification of mediators.
August 3, 2023 /03 August 2023, 2021, governance, GS2, Mediation bill, Polity, Today's Article
MASI Portal
Source: PIB
Context: The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has developed an application called ‘MASI’ (Monitoring App for Seamless Inspection) for real-time monitoring of Child Care Institutions (CCIs) across the country.
- The app aims to ensure effective and efficient inspection of CCIs as provided under the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015 (amended in 2021).
- It allows unified inspections by various authorities, including Child Welfare Committees (CWCs), State Inspection Committees, Juvenile Justice Boards (JJBs), and State Commissions for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCRs).
- The Mission Vatsalya Scheme supports the infrastructure and financial needs of setting up CWCs in each district to ensure their effective functioning.
August 3, 2023 /03 August 2023, government schemes, GS2, MASI Portal, national commission for protection of child rights, Today's Article
Polypills
Source: TH
Context: The WHO has recognized the effectiveness of polypills in combating cardiovascular diseases by including them in the Model Lists of Essential Medicines.
What are Polypills?
A polypill is a single pill that contains a combination of multiple medications, typically used for the prevention or treatment of various health conditions. It simplifies medication regimens by packaging several drugs together in a single dosage form.
Example:
“Polycap,” which is a polypill containing multiple medications, including simvastatin (for cholesterol control), ramipril (for blood pressure control), atenolol (for heart health), hydrochlorothiazide (for blood pressure control), and acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin for clot prevention).
Significance: Polypills are designed to simplify treatment regimens, enhance medication adherence, and provide an effective approach to managing complex health conditions by combining multiple medications into a single dosage form.
WHO Model Lists of Essential Medicines: The WHO Model Lists of Essential Medicines are updated every two years by the Expert Committee on Selection and Use of Essential Medicines.
August 3, 2023 /03 August 2023, polypills, Today's Article
Western Tragopan
Source: TH
Context: The Western Tragopan, Himachal Pradesh’s state bird, has been facing habitat loss, but efforts at a conservation breeding centre, have resulted in a gradual increase in the bird’s population.
About Western Tragopan:
- IUCN Status: Vulnerable; CITES– Appendix I.
- The bird’s distribution ranges from North Pakistan to India, including Himachal Pradesh and parts of Uttarakhand.
- The Western Tragopan faces threats from habitat loss, anthropogenic disturbances, and hunting pressure.
August 3, 2023 /03 August 2023, ENVIRONMENT, GS3, Species in news, Today's Article, Western Tragopan
Massive extinct whale ‘may be the heaviest animal that ever lived’
Source: TH
Context: Scientists have described a new contender for the heaviest animal ever to live, named Perucetus colossus or “the colossal whale from Peru.”
- Fossils of this ancient giant were discovered in the Ica desert in Peru, and researchers estimate that it lived around 39 million years ago.
- This prehistoric whale weighed between 94 and 375 tons (85 and 340 metric tons), making it potentially heavier than the largest blue whales, which typically weigh around 200 tons (180 metric tons).
- One reason for its higher weight is its dense and heavy bones compared to those of modern blue whales. This density suggests that the ancient whale may have lived in shallow coastal waters, similar to other coastal dwellers like manatees.
Whales are a widely distributed and diverse group of fully aquatic placental marine mammals. The sperm whale is the largest-toothed predator on Earth. The Blue Whale, Balaenoptera musculus, is listed as ‘Endangered’ on the IUCN Red List of Threatened SpeciesTM.
August 3, 2023 /03 August 2023, ENVIRONMENT, GS3, Massive extinct whale ‘may be the heaviest animal that ever lived’, Species in news, Today's Article