Conservation

Model Answer

1. Globalization and Trade: Increased international trade, transportation, and tourism have facilitated the movement of non-native species. For example, the Argentine ant has become a significant threat to native Hawaiian arthropods due to global shipping routesIllegal Wildlife Trade: The trade of exotic plants and animals contributes to the spread of IAS. Species such as tree squirrels have been introduced worldwide, mainly through the international pet trade .
2. Natural Predators: When IAS are introduced into new environments, they often lack natural predators, allowing them to proliferate uncontrollably. A case in point is the brown tree snake in Guam, which caused the extinction of several bird species due to the absence of predators .
3. *High Surv: Certain IAS, like the Senna plant, possess high reproductive rates and rapid growth, enabling them to dominate ecosystems and outcompete native species .

Harmful Effects India

1. Threats to Natural Systems: Around 66% of India’s natural ecosystems are threatened by IAS. For instance, the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve in the Western Ghats is heavily impacted by the invasion of species like Lantana camara, Prosopis juliflora, and Chromolaena odorata .
2. Economic Losses: IAS posecant economic threat. The loss of ecosystem services due to IAS affects forestry, agriculture, fisheries, and other natural systems, costing the Indian economy an estimated $182.6 billion .
3. Biodiversity Threats: IAS suppressodiversity and cause local extinctions. For example, the spread of Prosopis juliflora in Tamil Nadu has altered agricultural lands and grazing commons, forcing local communities to seek new livelihoods .
4. Health Risks: Some IAS, such as the Asian tito, are vectors of diseases like Dengue and Chikungunya, posing significant health threats to humans .

In summary, the spread of IAS is driven by globalizati and a lack of natural predators, which disrupt ecosystems, economies, and human health. Addressing this challenge is crucial for India’s biodiversity conservation and sustainable development efforts.

Model Answer

Introduction

Watershed management refers to the process of managing land, water, and related resources within a specific area known as a watershed. A watershed is the region from which all water drains into a common water body, such as a river, lake, or ocean. The goal of watershed management is to optimize the use of these resources while ensuring environmental sustainability. By integrating strategies to conserve water and soil, enhance agricultural productivity, and improve local ecosystems, watershed management aims to improve both environmental and socioeconomic conditions.

Prospects of Watershed Management:

1. Soil and Water Conservation:
   • Watershed management helps prevent soil erosion and improves water retention. Techniques like afforestation, contour bunding, and terracing are used to protect the soil and increase water infiltration.
   • Example: In Jhabua (Madhya Pradesh), watershed management projects have focused on soil and water conservation, afforestation, and improving livelihoods for tribal communities.
2. Sustainable Agriculture:
   • It promotes sustainable agricultural practices like crop rotation, organic farming, and agroforestry. These practices help increase productivity and protect the land for future generations.
   • Example: Watershed management programs in various regions have led to improved crop yields and better agricultural practices, benefiting farmers’ livelihoods.
3. Biodiversity Conservation:
   • By conserving natural habitats and encouraging sustainable land use, watershed management helps protect biodiversity.
   • Example: The Ecological and Watershed Restoration Program in the Philippines has been instrumental in conserving threatened species and ecosystems.
4. Water Resource Development:
   • Watershed management includes projects like check dams, reservoirs, and rainwater harvesting systems to improve water availability for irrigation and domestic use.
   • Examples:
     • Andhra Pradesh’s Neeru-Chettu program rejuvenated degraded lands and enhanced water resources.
     • Rajasthan’s Jheel Jeevan project restored traditional water bodies (johads), helping with local water conservation.
     • In Nepal, the Watershed Development Fund increased water availability for both irrigation and domestic purposes.
5. Climate Change Resilience:
   • Proper watershed management can help ecosystems become more resilient to climate change by improving water storage and land-use practices.
   • Example: The Watershed Management Project in Ethiopia integrated climate change adaptation strategies to protect communities and ecosystems.

Limitations of Watershed Management:

1. Financial Constraints:
   • Watershed management projects require significant investment in infrastructure, training, and monitoring. Lack of funds can hinder effective implementation.
2. Institutional Challenges:
   • Watershed management involves multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, and NGOs. Coordinating these diverse groups can be difficult, causing delays and inefficiencies.
3. Technical Expertise:
   • The success of watershed management requires expertise in various fields like hydrology, agriculture, and ecology. A shortage of skilled professionals can reduce the quality and impact of interventions.
4. Climate Change:
   • Climate change may alter rainfall patterns, increase the frequency of extreme weather events, and affect water availability, making watershed management even more challenging. Managing these impacts may go beyond the scope of traditional watershed management approaches.
5. Social Equity:
   • Sometimes, watershed management projects can negatively affect marginalized communities, especially if they lose access to traditional resources or livelihoods. Ensuring fair participation and benefit-sharing is crucial for the success of these projects.