Conflict in Niger UPSC

Source: Indian Express
GS II: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate

Overview

Why in News?

India has issued an advisory for its nationals in Niger asking them to leave the country at the earliest.

The government of India is closely monitoring ongoing developments in Niger.
In light of the prevailing situation, Indian nationals whose presence is not essential are advised to leave the country as soon as possible.
They may bear in mind that airspace is currently closed.
When departing through a land border utmost precautions may be taken to ensure safety and security.
Those nationals who are planning to travel to Niger in the coming days have also been similarly advised to reconsider their travel
There are approximately 250 Indians in Niger.

July 26 coup soldiers in the West African nation of Niger installed Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani as head of state after ousting President Mohamed Bazoum.
The Sahel region, home to Niger, Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania, and Senegal, has witnessed political instability and ethnic tensions.
Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU) have been swift in expressing their disapproval.

Niger is a landlocked country located in West Africa.
It is bordered by several countries: Algeria to the north, Libya to the northeast, Chad to the east, Nigeria and Benin to the south, Burkina Faso to the southwest, and Mali to the west.
The capital city of Niger is Niamey, located in the southwestern part of the country

Sahara Desert: The northern part of Niger is characterized by the Sahara Desert, one of the world’s largest and hottest deserts. This region is arid and sparsely populated, with vast sand dunes and rocky terrain.
Aïr Mountains: Located in northern Niger, the Aïr Mountains are a rugged and elevated region that provides a stark contrast to the surrounding desert. The mountains have several peaks that rise to over 6,000 feet (1,800 meters) and are known for their unique landscapes and cultural significance.
Sahel Region: The central and southern parts of Niger transition from the Sahara Desert to the Sahel, a semi-arid region characterized by grasslands and scrub vegetation. The Sahel experiences a more moderate climate and supports some agricultural activities.
River Niger: The country is named after the River Niger, one of the major rivers in Africa. The river flows through the southwestern part of Niger, contributing to irrigation and supporting some agricultural activities in the region.
Lake Chad Basin: The southeastern part of Niger is part of the Lake Chad Basin, which includes Lake Chad itself. While the lake has been shrinking due to various environmental factors, it still plays a crucial role in providing water resources to the surrounding area.
Natural Resources: Niger possesses mineral resources, including uranium, which is a valuable export. However, the exploitation of these resources also poses environmental and social challenges.

Historically, many communities in Niger have been nomadic or semi-nomadic, adapting to the arid and varied landscape.
These groups often practice pastoralism, moving their livestock in search of grazing lands.

Despite its arid climate, Niger is home to a variety of wildlife, including desert-adapted species such as the addax antelope and dama gazelle.
Efforts to conserve these species and their habitats are ongoing.

Conflict in Niger UPSC

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