- Earth is home to millions of living organisms, from micro-organisms to large animals and trees.
- All living beings, including humans, are part of a complex and interdependent ecological system.
- Humans depend on plants, animals, and micro-organisms for clean air, water, and fertile soil.
- Forests play a vital role in the ecosystem as primary producers supporting all life forms.
- Biodiversity is rich and varied, with different species closely connected through interdependence.
Key Points
Key Points: Flora and Fauna in India
- India has a very rich and diverse variety of plants and animals.
- Many species of flora and fauna are unique to specific regions of India.
- A large number of plant and animal species are still yet to be discovered.
- Flora and fauna are closely connected to human daily life and needs.
- These biological resources are under stress due to human insensitivity towards the environment.
Key Points: Conservation of Forest and Wildlife in India
- Conservation of forests and wildlife is necessary to maintain ecological balance and life support systems.
- It helps preserve the genetic diversity of plants and animals for agriculture and fisheries.
- The Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act was implemented in 1972 to protect wildlife and habitats.
- Hunting and trade of endangered species were banned under this Act.
- National parks and wildlife sanctuaries were established across India.
- Special projects were started to protect threatened animals like tigers, rhinoceros, and elephants.
- Project Tiger was launched in 1973 to conserve tigers and their natural habitats.
Key Points: Biodiversity: The Basis of Human Survival
Key Points: Types and Distribution of Forest and Wildlife Resources
- In India, most forest and wildlife resources are owned and managed by the government through the Forest Department.
- Reserved forests cover more than half of the total forest area and are the most important for the conservation of forests and wildlife.
- Protected forests form about one-third of the forest area and are protected from further depletion.
- Unclassed forests include forests and wastelands owned by the government, private individuals, and local communities, mainly found in North-Eastern states.
- Reserved and protected forests together are called permanent forest estates, mainly used for timber production and environmental protection.
Key Points: Community and Conservation
- Communities protect forests because it supports their long-term livelihood.
- Sariska (Rajasthan): villagers opposed mining using the Wildlife Protection Act.
- Alwar (Rajasthan): 5 villages declared 1,200 hectares as Bhairodev Dakav “Sonchuri” with strict no-hunting rules.
- Chipko + eco-farming: Chipko stopped deforestation; Beej Bachao Andolan and Navdanya proved that diversified, chemical-free farming works.
- Sacred groves + JFM: sacred groves protect rare species; JFM (since 1988, Odisha) involves villagers in protecting degraded forests and sharing benefits.
Important Questions [3]
- On the given Map of India, locate and label the following: Pune Software Technology Park.
- Read the given source and answer the questions that follow: COMMUNITY AND CONSERVATION Conservation strategies are not new in our country.
- Assertion (A): The famous ‘Chipko Movement’ in the Himalayas successfully resisted deforestation in several areas.
