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21 June 2026

Personal essays and reflections

The topic provides relevant context on the Antarctic Treaty and environmental challenges like climate change and tourism, which are useful for GS1 and GS3 answers, though it lacks a direct Indian policy or specific event trigger.

1 min read 1 questions 1 prelims

Notes

  • Antarctica is governed by the 1959 Antarctic Treaty, which designates the continent as a neutral, demilitarised zone for peaceful scientific research.
  • Tourism in Antarctica has grown significantly, from fewer than 8,000 visitors annually at the turn of the 21st century to 1,25,000 in the 2023-24 season.
  • The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) provides voluntary guidelines for cruise ships, including limits on passenger numbers at landing sites and biosecurity measures.
  • Antarctica holds 90% of the world's ice; melting of this ice sheet could lead to a global sea-level rise of approximately 230 feet.
  • The Antarctic Peninsula contains historical remnants of whaling stations, highlighting the long-term environmental impact of human industrial activity in remote regions.

Questions

  1. The rapid expansion of 'last chance tourism' in ecologically fragile regions like Antarctica poses significant challenges to global conservation efforts. Discuss the role of international treaties and voluntary regulatory frameworks in balancing scientific research with commercial activities in such neutral territories. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
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Prelims

  1. Which of the following best describes the legal status of Antarctica under the 1959 Antarctic Treaty?

Syllabus

Topics

Sources

250words.in · https://250words.in/daily/2026-06-21/personal-essays-and-reflections