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Home/upsc: conservation

Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions

Ajay Sundar
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Ajay SundarLearner
Asked: January 7, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Briefly define human-wildlife conflict (HWC) and its significance in India. Mention the impact of HWC on both wildlife conservation and human communities. Causes of Growing Human-Wildlife Conflict Habitat Depletion and Fragmentation: Discuss how urbanization and agricultural expansion lead to the ...

upsc: conservation
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Causes of Growing Human-Wildlife Conflict in India-wildlife conflict (HWC) in India is escalating due to several interrelated factors: Habitat Depletion and Fragmentation: Rapid urbanization, agricultural expansion, and infrastructure development have led to significant habitat loss forRead more

    Model Answer

    Causes of Growing Human-Wildlife Conflict in India-wildlife conflict (HWC) in India is escalating due to several interrelated factors:

    1. Habitat Depletion and Fragmentation: Rapid urbanization, agricultural expansion, and infrastructure development have led to significant habitat loss for wildlife. This forces animals to venture into human settlements in search of food and water.
    2. Movement of Livestock and Humans: Economic pressures compel marginalized communities to exploit resources within protected areas, increasing encounters with wildlife.
    3. Invasive Alien Species: The introduction of non-native species can disrupt local ecosystems, reducing food and water availability for native wildlife, which in turn leads to competition with humans.
    4. Climatic Factors: Climate change alters vegetation patterns and affects the foraging behavior of species like lions and leopards, increasing the likelihood of conflict with humans.
    5. Increase in Wildlife Populations: Conservation efforts have successfully increased the populations of certain species, which can exceed the carrying capacity of their habitats, leading to “spillover” into human areas.
    6. Stochastic Events: Natural disasters such as floods and forest fires can displace wildlife, forcing them into populated areas in search of food and shelter.

    Government Measures to Mitigate Human-Wildlife Conflict

    The Indian government has implemented several strategies to address HWC:

    1. National Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation Strategy: This framework aims to tackle the root causes of conflict through a structured approach focusing on drivers, pressures, and responses.
    2. Standing Committee of National Board of Wildlife Guidelines: These guidelines promote community involvement, provide crop loss insurance, and establish early warning systems to mitigate conflict.
    3. Legislative Framework: Laws such as the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 and the National Biodiversity Act of 2002 protect wildlife and their habitats, facilitating the creation of protected areas.
    4. State-Level Initiatives: States like Kerala and Uttarakhand have formed committees to address HWC and implement localized solutions.
    5. Creation of Wildlife Corridors: States including Kerala and Madhya Pradesh have developed corridors to allow the safe movement of wildlife between habitats, reducing encounters with humans.
    6. Funding and International Cooperation: The central government provides financial support for wildlife conservation, and projects like the Indo-German Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation Project aim to establish best practices for coexistence.

    While completely eradicating human-wildlife conflict is challenging, these integrated approaches can foster coexistence between humans and wildlife.

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Ayon Iyengar
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Ayon IyengarLearner
Asked: January 7, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction (50-75 words) Begin by briefly acknowledging the importance of river water quality and the efforts made to improve it in India. Mention the primary objective of these efforts, such as reducing pollution and conserving water resources, specifically ...

upsc: conservation
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Why Has the Quality of River Water in India Shown Little Improvement? Despite extensive efforts by various stakeholders, the quality of river water in India has shown little improvement. Several factors contribute to this ongoing challenge: 1. Ineffective Sewage Treatment InfrastructureRead more

    Model Answer

    Why Has the Quality of River Water in India Shown Little Improvement?

    Despite extensive efforts by various stakeholders, the quality of river water in India has shown little improvement. Several factors contribute to this ongoing challenge:

    1. Ineffective Sewage Treatment Infrastructure

    One of the major obstacles to improving river water quality is the lack of adequate sewage treatment facilities. For example, while the five states through which the Ganga flows generate around 10,000 million liters of sewage daily, their combined treatment capacity is only about 4,000 million liters, or just 40% of the required capacity. This imbalance leads to untreated sewage being discharged into rivers, contributing to pollution.

    2. Inadequate Monitoring and Data Collection

    Effective monitoring of water quality remains a challenge in India. Although the National Mission for Clean Ganga intends to monitor water quality at 134 stations, it is currently only being conducted at 97 stations. This insufficient data collection hampers efforts to understand the extent of pollution and take appropriate corrective measures.

    3. Uncontrolled Waste Discharge

    Untreated waste continues to flow into rivers, further exacerbating pollution. According to the National Green Tribunal (NGT), untreated sewage is discharged into 60% of the Ganga, making it one of the most polluted rivers in the country. Similarly, untreated waste from textile and chemical manufacturing units contributes to the pollution of rivers like the Sabarmati.

    4. Impact of Unplanned Tourism and Agricultural Run-off

    Unregulated tourism activities have also emerged as a threat to water bodies, particularly through increased plastic waste, as seen near the Indus River in Ladakh. Additionally, agricultural run-off, especially from excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides, contaminates river water and groundwater. The CPCB has reported the presence of harmful metals like manganese and copper in rivers such as the Yamuna, further degrading water quality.

    Conclusion

    Despite measures like the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and programs like the Namami Gange and National River Conservation Plan, significant improvements in river water quality are hindered by factors such as inadequate infrastructure, lax monitoring, and unregulated waste discharge. Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts from both the central and state governments, including better waste management infrastructure, stricter law enforcement, and active public participation.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 22, 2024In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Define carrying capacity. Explain its relevance to ecosystems and environmental sustainability. Body Section 1: Concept of Carrying Capacity Definition: The maximum population size an ecosystem can support sustainably. Factors influencing carrying capacity: Resource availability, renewal rates, and regenerative capacities. Dynamic nature: Changes over ...

upsc: conservation
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction Carrying capacity refers to the maximum population size of a species that an ecosystem can sustainably support without degrading its resources. It reflects the delicate balance between the needs of a population—such as food, water, and habitat—and the ecosystem's ability toRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    Carrying capacity refers to the maximum population size of a species that an ecosystem can sustainably support without degrading its resources. It reflects the delicate balance between the needs of a population—such as food, water, and habitat—and the ecosystem’s ability to provide these essential resources. Factors affecting carrying capacity include resource availability, renewal rates, and regenerative capacities, and it is dynamic, changing over time due to climate change, habitat degradation, and resource depletion.

    Importance in Sustainable Development Planning

    1. Resource Management:
      Recognizing carrying capacity is crucial for effective resource management. By assessing the availability of resources, planners can prevent overexploitation, ensuring that resources remain viable for future generations. For example, sustainable forestry practices can be implemented based on the forest’s carrying capacity, maintaining biodiversity.
    2. Environmental Preservation:
      Understanding carrying capacity aids in conserving biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance. By acknowledging the limits of an ecosystem, planners can avoid resource overuse and habitat destruction. For instance, marine protected areas are established by considering the carrying capacity of aquatic ecosystems, which helps preserve fish populations.
    3. Population Control:
      Carrying capacity underscores the necessity for population control measures to maintain a sustainable balance between human population and available resources. Empowering women through education and reproductive health services is essential for achieving population stability, ultimately aligning human needs with ecosystem limits.
    4. Resilience and Adaptability:
      Incorporating carrying capacity into development plans enhances ecosystem resilience and adaptability. By recognizing ecological limits, planners can mitigate risks and minimize environmental degradation, promoting long-term sustainability.
    5. Mitigating Negative Impacts:
      Understanding carrying capacity helps identify potential adverse effects of economic activities, such as resource depletion and habitat loss. This knowledge enables policymakers to develop strategies that foster sustainable economic growth while preventing conflicts over limited resources.

    Conclusion

    By understanding the carrying capacity of ecosystems, policymakers and planners can make informed decisions regarding resource allocation, population control, and conservation efforts. This comprehension ensures that development activities remain within environmental limits, preventing resource depletion and ecological imbalances. Considering carrying capacity is essential for achieving sustainable development and preserving the delicate balance between human needs and the environment.

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Anirudh Singh
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Anirudh SinghLearner
Asked: July 27, 2024In:
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In the context of forest management, talk about the difficulties in striking a balance between the demands of development and conservation.

upsc: conservation
  1. Kartik Raman
    Kartik Raman Begginer

    The National Green Tribunal (NGT) was established in India in 2010 under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010. Its primary objective is to provide a specialized forum for the expeditious disposal of environmental disputes and to ensure the enforcement of environmental laws. Here’s an evaluation ofRead more

    The National Green Tribunal (NGT) was established in India in 2010 under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010. Its primary objective is to provide a specialized forum for the expeditious disposal of environmental disputes and to ensure the enforcement of environmental laws. Here’s an evaluation of the NGT’s efficacy in addressing environmental issues and promoting conservation:

    **1. Role and Functions of the NGT

    **a. Judicial Functions

    • Dispute Resolution: The NGT hears cases related to environmental disputes involving questions of law and fact. It deals with issues such as pollution control, forest conservation, and land degradation.
    • Appeals and Suits: It provides a platform for individuals, NGOs, and government bodies to appeal against orders of environmental authorities or to seek relief against environmental harm.

    **b. Regulatory Functions

    • Enforcement: The NGT has the authority to enforce environmental laws and regulations. It can issue directives, orders, and compensation for environmental damage.
    • Policy Recommendations: It also provides recommendations to the government on policy and legal issues related to environmental conservation.

    **2. Achievements and Impact

    **a. Efficient Dispute Resolution

    • Expedited Handling: The NGT is designed to handle environmental disputes more quickly than traditional courts. Its specialized nature allows for more informed and swift decisions.
    • Case Management: It has effectively managed a substantial number of cases, addressing a wide range of environmental issues across the country.

    Examples:

    • Ganga Cleaning Efforts: The NGT has issued various orders to ensure that pollution control measures are implemented in the Ganga River cleaning efforts.
    • Industrial Pollution: The Tribunal has intervened in cases of industrial pollution, leading to orders for the closure of polluting industries and compensation for affected communities.

    **b. Environmental Protection Orders

    • Precautionary Measures: The NGT has issued several precautionary measures and directives to prevent environmental harm, including stopping illegal activities and mandating compliance with environmental standards.
    • Compensation and Restoration: The Tribunal has ordered compensation for environmental damage and directed restoration activities, such as reforestation and river clean-up.

    Examples:

    • Illegal Mining: The NGT has ordered the suspension of illegal mining activities in various states, including Goa and Karnataka, to protect forest areas and water bodies.
    • Construction Regulations: It has issued orders regulating construction activities in eco-sensitive zones, such as the Himalayan region and coastal areas.

    **3. Challenges and Limitations

    **a. Implementation and Compliance

    • Enforcement Issues: While the NGT issues orders and directives, the implementation and enforcement of these orders can be challenging. There are instances where compliance with NGT orders has been slow or ineffective.
    • Coordination with Authorities: Effective implementation often requires coordination with various government agencies and authorities, which can be inconsistent.

    **b. Resource Constraints

    • Judicial Resources: The Tribunal faces resource constraints, including limited manpower and infrastructure, which can impact its ability to handle cases efficiently.
    • Funding: Adequate funding is crucial for the Tribunal’s functioning, including maintaining its operations and supporting environmental initiatives.

    **c. Legal and Jurisdictional Challenges

    • Legal Complexity: Environmental cases can be complex, involving multiple laws and regulations. The Tribunal sometimes faces challenges in interpreting and applying these laws.
    • Jurisdictional Limits: There are instances where the jurisdiction of the NGT is contested, and its decisions are subject to review in higher courts.

    **d. Public Perception and Access

    • Awareness and Accessibility: Public awareness about the NGT and its functions can be limited, affecting the accessibility of justice for marginalized communities.
    • Engagement: Ensuring active engagement of affected communities and stakeholders in the Tribunal’s processes is crucial for effective outcomes.

    **4. Recent Developments and Improvements

    **a. Strengthening of Mechanisms

    • Digital Initiatives: The NGT has taken steps to improve its efficiency through digital platforms, including online case management and virtual hearings.
    • Training and Capacity Building: Efforts are being made to enhance the Tribunal’s capacity through training programs and collaborations with environmental experts.

    **b. Expanding Jurisdiction

    • Broader Scope: The NGT’s jurisdiction has been expanded to cover additional environmental issues and improve its ability to address emerging challenges.

    **c. Public Outreach and Education

    • Awareness Campaigns: Initiatives to raise public awareness about the NGT and its role in environmental protection are underway.

    **5. Conclusion

    The National Green Tribunal has played a significant role in addressing environmental issues and promoting conservation in India. Its specialized nature, expedited handling of cases, and enforcement of environmental laws have contributed to improved environmental protection. However, challenges related to implementation, resource constraints, legal complexities, and public perception need to be addressed to enhance its efficacy further.

    The Tribunal’s continued effectiveness will depend on its ability to address these challenges, improve coordination with authorities, and engage with communities and stakeholders to ensure meaningful and lasting environmental protection.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 22, 2024In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Introduce the issue of coastal sand mining as a significant environmental threat. Briefly mention its relevance to Indian coasts and the need for analysis. Body Section 1: Key Impacts of Coastal Sand Mining Coastal Erosion Fact: Sand mining leads to substantial coastal ...

upsc: conservation
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction Coastal sand mining, whether legal or illegal, poses a significant threat to the environment, particularly along the Indian coasts. This activity has detrimental effects on coastal ecosystems, leading to various ecological and socioeconomic issues. Impact of Coastal Sand MiRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    Coastal sand mining, whether legal or illegal, poses a significant threat to the environment, particularly along the Indian coasts. This activity has detrimental effects on coastal ecosystems, leading to various ecological and socioeconomic issues.

    Impact of Coastal Sand Mining along Indian Coasts

    1. Coastal Erosion:
      Sand mining contributes to coastal erosion, resulting in the loss of landmass. For instance, in Karnataka, rampant sand mining has led to significant coastal erosion, prompting the government to invest heavily in constructing barriers to combat this issue.
    2. Deepening of Rivers and Estuaries:
      The depletion of sand from coastal areas causes the deepening of rivers and estuaries, disrupting their natural flow patterns. In regions like Kollam, Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, and Ernakulam, sand mining has resulted in seawater intrusion, inundation of coastal land, and salinization of groundwater.
    3. Saline-Water Intrusion:
      Coastal sand mining can lead to the intrusion of saline water from the sea, adversely affecting freshwater sources. In Periyasamypuram, Tamil Nadu, this has resulted in seawater entering the village, causing palm trees to dry up, fish catches to decline, and groundwater to become brackish.
    4. Ecological Disturbance:
      Sand mining disrupts beach ecosystems and negatively impacts wildlife, including marine organisms and nesting sea turtles. The loss of nesting sites due to sand mining threatens species like the Olive Ridley sea turtle.
    5. Turbidity and Water Quality Issues:
      The process generates turbidity in the water, which reduces sunlight penetration, harming corals and fish populations. This turbidity has been linked to fish die-offs and the failure of aquatic systems in affected areas.
    6. Loss of Natural Barriers and Increased Flooding:
      Sand mining removes natural barriers such as beaches and dunes, making coastal areas more vulnerable to flooding and storm surges. The absence of these protective barriers exacerbates the risk of flooding in regions near the sea or rivers.
    7. Socioeconomic Impacts:
      Coastal sand mining adversely affects livelihoods, damages infrastructure, and disrupts the socioeconomic fabric of coastal communities. The National Green Tribunal has imposed fines on the government of Andhra Pradesh for failing to prevent illegal sand mining, highlighting the serious consequences of such activities.

    Conclusion

    The impacts of sand mining along the Indian coasts are profound, leading to coastal erosion, saline-water intrusion, destruction of turtle nesting sites, and increased flooding risks. Specific examples from Tamil Nadu and coastal areas in Kerala and Karnataka illustrate the damaging consequences of this practice. To mitigate these environmental impacts, strict enforcement of regulations, sustainable mining practices, and the use of alternative materials are essential.

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Neeru Kumari
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Neeru KumariBegginer
Asked: June 29, 2024In:
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Why does biopiracy pose such a serious threat to the conventional knowledge that still exists in the poor world? What actions has the Indian government done to safeguard the country’s traditional knowledge base? (Answer in 150 words)

upsc: conservation
  1. Santosh Singh
    Santosh Singh Learner

    Biopiracy refers to a situation where traditional knowledge is used by others for profit, without permission from and with little or no compensation or recognition to the indigenous people. Traditional knowledge is a vast treasure of knowledge susceptible to misappropriation because of its immense pRead more

    Biopiracy refers to a situation where traditional knowledge is used by others for profit, without permission from and with little or no compensation or recognition to the indigenous people. Traditional knowledge is a vast treasure of knowledge susceptible to misappropriation because of its immense potential.
    Biopiracy is detrimental for the existing traditional knowledge of the developing world in the following ways:

    • A patent holder unfairly appropriates indigenous knowledge and resources for earning profits. Mostly, patents are filed in the developed nations on traditional knowledge available in the developing countries.
    • Many indigenous groups are at risk from biopiracy since their way of life depends on the local natural resources.
    • Farmers or communities may have to sacrifice their livelihood in addition to giving up their generational expertise when traditional knowledge is patented.
    • A well-established judicial system may get upset when unfair and unethical exploitation is carried out by claiming such patents.

    Some of the examples of misappropriation of existing traditional knowledge of the developing world include patents filed for the use of turmeric in wound healing, fungicidal effect of neem, ‘texmati’ rice, kava grown in the Pacific, quinoa from the Andes, hoodia from Africa, etc. Thus, it is imperative for the governments in the developing countries to take adequate measures in this regard.
    The steps taken by the government of India for protecting the existing traditional Indian knowledge include:

    • Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL): It seeks to prevent the granting of patents for products developed utilising traditional knowledge. It holds more than 2.6 lakh medicinal formulations from the ancient texts of India, including from the areas of Unani, Ayurveda, Siddha, etc. It also provides the information in international languages like German, French, Spanish, Japanese and English.
    • The Biological Diversity Act, 2002: It protects traditional knowledge, as it has the provision of requirement of prior permission by entities seeking protection of intellectual protection rights (IPR) based on knowledge/information obtained from Indian communities.
    • The Patents Act, 1970: Section 3 (p) of the Patent Act, 1970, bars patent protection for invention involving use of traditional knowledge or any duplication or aggregation of such knowledge.
    • TRIPS Agreement: It advocated five modes of traditional knowledge protection, which included disclosure requirements of traditional knowledge use, sui generis system of traditional knowledge protection, bilateral contract laws for traditional knowledge protection, etc. India is a party to the TRIPS Agreement.
    • Convention on Biological Diversity: The 1992 Convention on Biological Diversity, while recognizing the role of traditional knowledge in environmental conservation, has also raised the requirement of revamping the international intellectual-property agreements. India is a party to this Convention.

    Traditional knowledge-based innovations are critical for developing countries like India, not only for the development of indigenous population but also for the country’s economic development. Though the Indian legislations, together with the TKDL, are significant and laudable advances towards the protection of traditional knowledge and the prevention of biopiracy, an enforceable international regime for the acknowledgment and protection of traditional knowledge is still needed.

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Bhavesh Desai
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Bhavesh DesaiBegginer
Asked: July 27, 2024In:
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Make recommendations for legislative changes that will improve state-federal coordination and facilitate the successful execution of conservation initiatives.

upsc: conservation
  1. Sanjana Iyer
    Sanjana Iyer Begginer

    Policy Interventions to Enhance Coordination Between Central and State Governments for Effective Implementation of Conservation Programs Effective implementation of conservation programs requires seamless coordination between central and state governments. The following policy interventions can faciRead more

    Policy Interventions to Enhance Coordination Between Central and State Governments for Effective Implementation of Conservation Programs

    Effective implementation of conservation programs requires seamless coordination between central and state governments. The following policy interventions can facilitate this:

    1. Establish a National-Regional Conservation Framework

    To streamline efforts, a National Conservation Strategy should be formulated, delineating roles and responsibilities clearly. This framework must incorporate regional conservation priorities to ensure local needs are met. For example, the National Biodiversity Action Plan (NBAP), which outlines broad goals for biodiversity conservation, can be paired with State Biodiversity Strategies to address specific regional issues.

    2. Implement Intergovernmental Committees

    Setting up intergovernmental committees with representatives from both central and state governments can enhance communication and resolve conflicts. These committees should meet regularly to review progress, address challenges, and adjust policies as needed. The National Green Tribunal (NGT), though primarily a judicial body, also facilitates a forum for intergovernmental dialogue on environmental issues.

    3. Develop Integrated Data Management Systems

    Central and state governments should develop integrated data management systems to share real-time data on conservation efforts. This includes information on wildlife populations, deforestation rates, and pollution levels. For instance, the Forest Survey of India’s (FSI) State of Forest Report provides critical data that can be used by state governments for localized conservation planning.

    4. Foster Capacity Building and Training

    Capacity building programs should be introduced to train state-level officials and local stakeholders in conservation techniques and policy implementation. Initiatives like the National Afforestation and Eco-Development Board (NAEB) training programs can enhance state capabilities in forest management and conservation.

    5. Create Financial Incentives and Support Mechanisms

    Financial incentives and support mechanisms should be established to encourage states to participate in national conservation programs. The central government can offer matching grants or performance-based funding to states that meet conservation targets. The Green India Mission, which is part of the National Action Plan on Climate Change, provides funding and resources for state-level conservation projects.

    6. Strengthen Public-Private Partnerships

    Encouraging public-private partnerships (PPPs) can leverage additional resources and expertise for conservation programs. The central government can facilitate partnerships between state governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and private entities. For example, the Project Tiger initiative involves collaboration between the government and various NGOs to protect tiger habitats.

    7. Promote Decentralized Decision-Making

    Empowering state and local governments with greater decision-making authority on conservation issues ensures that policies are tailored to regional contexts. The Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Municipalities should be actively involved in local conservation efforts, supported by the central government’s overarching policies.

    8. Standardize Reporting and Accountability Mechanisms

    Establishing standardized reporting and accountability mechanisms for conservation programs can ensure consistency and transparency. States should be required to submit regular progress reports, which can be reviewed and audited by central authorities. This practice improves oversight and ensures that conservation goals are being met.

    Recent Examples:

    • Madhya Pradesh’s Pench Tiger Reserve: The state government, with support from the central government’s Project Tiger, has successfully increased tiger populations by implementing targeted conservation strategies and habitat management practices.
    • Karnataka’s Western Ghats: A collaborative effort between the central Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and Karnataka’s Forest Department has led to effective conservation of this biodiversity hotspot through coordinated forest management and community engagement.

    By adopting these policy interventions, the central and state governments can work together more effectively to achieve conservation goals and ensure sustainable management of natural resources.

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Ayon Iyengar
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Ayon IyengarLearner
Asked: January 7, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction to NBS Begin with a concise definition of Nature-based Solutions (NBS). Explain the broad concept of NBS: protecting, managing, and restoring natural ecosystems to address societal needs and enhance environmental resilience. Core Features of NBS Mention the different approaches within ...

upsc: conservation
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Definition of Nature-based Solutions (NBS) Nature-based Solutions (NBS) refer to the sustainable management, protection, and restoration of natural or modified ecosystems to address societal needs while enhancing environmental and economic resilience. NBS include practices such as increRead more

    Model Answer

    Definition of Nature-based Solutions (NBS)

    Nature-based Solutions (NBS) refer to the sustainable management, protection, and restoration of natural or modified ecosystems to address societal needs while enhancing environmental and economic resilience. NBS include practices such as increasing green cover through forestry, constructing green roofs, and developing rain gardens. These solutions integrate nature into urban planning and disaster risk reduction, aiming to solve environmental, social, and economic challenges.

    How NBS Assist in Adapting to Hazards

    NBS can play a crucial role in adapting to a range of natural hazards:

    1. Coastal Hazards: By protecting and restoring coral reefs, NBS can help safeguard coastal communities from flooding, storm surges, and erosion. Additionally, increasing mangrove density is effective in mitigating the impacts of rising sea levels and coastal erosion.
    2. Flooding and Stormwater Management: In urban areas, NBS like green roofs, rain gardens, and constructed wetlands absorb stormwater, reducing flood risks. These solutions also help preserve freshwater ecosystems by managing runoff and reducing pollution.
    3. Urban Heat Stress: Expanding green spaces in cities helps mitigate the urban heat island effect, reducing the risk of heat stress and improving overall urban resilience.
    4. Climate Change Mitigation: Forests play a critical role in sequestering carbon, thus aiding in climate change mitigation. Preventing deforestation and degradation can reduce carbon emissions, which in turn helps mitigate the impacts of global warming.
    5. Soil and Water Management: NBS such as forest management help stabilize soil and reduce water runoff, mitigating risks of landslides, soil erosion, and siltation. Agroforestry improves soil moisture retention, helping to adapt to droughts, crop failures, and livestock losses.
    6. Water Treatment: Wetlands, recognized for their ability to filter water, are effective in wastewater treatment and serve as carbon sinks. Additionally, enhancing riparian ecosystems can help protect watersheds and regulate river flow, especially in regions experiencing drought.

    Challenges and Opportunities in India

    To fully harness the potential of NBS, India needs to increase investment, improve governance, and empower local communities. Regional and international cooperation is also crucial for the effective implementation of these solutions.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: September 10, 2024In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Define the Jal Shakti Abhiyan. State its significance in addressing water conservation and security in India. 2. Salient Features of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan Integrated Approach: Explain the collaboration among various ministries, departments, and stakeholders for comprehensive water management. Water Conservation ...

upsc: conservation
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction The Jal Shakti Abhiyan, launched by the Government of India, is a pivotal initiative aimed at enhancing water conservation and security across the nation. This comprehensive campaign incorporates various strategies to promote efficient water management and increase water avRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    The Jal Shakti Abhiyan, launched by the Government of India, is a pivotal initiative aimed at enhancing water conservation and security across the nation. This comprehensive campaign incorporates various strategies to promote efficient water management and increase water availability.

    Salient Features of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan

    1. Integrated Approach:
      The Abhiyan adopts a holistic strategy by uniting multiple ministries, departments, and stakeholders. This collaborative effort aims to tackle water conservation comprehensively.
    2. Water Conservation Campaigns:
      A significant focus is placed on grassroots awareness and education. The program engages communities, schools, and institutions to adopt water-saving practices and techniques, fostering a culture of conservation.
    3. Water Resource Assessment:
      The initiative includes thorough assessments of water resources, evaluating groundwater levels, availability, and quality. This helps identify areas facing water stress and facilitates sustainable water management planning.
    4. Rainwater Harvesting:
      The promotion of rainwater harvesting techniques is central to the Abhiyan. It encourages the construction of rooftop systems, check dams, and percolation tanks to recharge groundwater levels.
    5. Water Budgeting and Crop Planning:
      Efficient water budgeting and crop planning are emphasized. The program promotes micro-irrigation, crop diversification, and optimal water use in agriculture to enhance productivity.
    6. Renovation of Traditional Water Bodies:
      The Abhiyan focuses on restoring traditional water bodies like ponds and lakes, which helps augment water storage, recharge groundwater, and improve rural water availability.
    7. Revival of Rivers:
      To rejuvenate rivers, the initiative emphasizes river basin planning and ecological restoration, ensuring minimum environmental flows and sustainable management practices.
    8. Policy Reforms:
      The program advocates for necessary policy reforms and regulatory mechanisms to enhance water governance, strengthening laws and frameworks for effective implementation.

    Conclusion

    The Jal Shakti Abhiyan encompasses vital measures such as rainwater harvesting, restoration of traditional water bodies, and awareness campaigns. These initiatives are essential for sustainable water resource management and securing water availability for future generations.

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Rishi Sharma
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Rishi SharmaBegginer
Asked: June 25, 2024In:
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Finding possible locations for the reintroduction of cheetahs in India, talking about the importance of the project and the difficulties involved. (Answer in 150 words)

upsc: conservation
  1. Irfan Ahamad
    Irfan Ahamad Begginer

    After being declared extinct in 1952, Cheetahs are being reintroduced in India under Project Cheetah, the world's first inter-continental large wild carnivore translocation project. From the historical ranges where Cheetahs were once found, following 10 potential sites from the states of Rajasthan,Read more

    After being declared extinct in 1952, Cheetahs are being reintroduced in India under Project Cheetah, the world’s first inter-continental large wild carnivore translocation project.
    From the historical ranges where Cheetahs were once found, following 10 potential sites from the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh are found to be suitable:

    • Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve and Guru Ghasidas National Park: Cheetahs were last observed in this region but presently prey-density is low.
    • Kuno-Palpur region: High potential as the region is already restored for introducing the Asiatic lions. Nauradehi WLS, MP: It has reasonable prey-density.
    • Kaimur WLS, UP and Bagdara WLS, MP: Continuous region with reasonable prey-density but much land is under agriculture.
    • Shahgarh landscape of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan: It is suitable because the area is well fenced along the international border.
    • Banni grasslands and Kachchh WLS, Gujarat: Potential habitat but prey base needs to be developed.
    • Desert National Park in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan: It is large and has a good number of prey but is the last stronghold for the great Indian bustard.

    Significance of reintroduction of Cheetahs in India:

    • Establish viable cheetah metapopulation in India: It will re-establish cheetah’s functional role as a top predator, restoring historic evolutionary balance and positive impacts like:
      • Better management and restoration of wildlife habitat (grasslands, scrublands and open forest ecosystems).
      • Conservation of cheetah’s prey and sympatric endangered species.
      • Top-down effect of a large predator that enhances and maintains the diversity in lower trophic levels of the ecosystems.
    • Resource mobilization: Cheetah as a charismatic flagship and umbrella species can help to garner resources for restoring open forest and ecosystem services like soil moisture conservation, water security, etc.
    • Enhance local community livelihoods through eco-development and eco-tourism prospects.

    Challenges regarding relocation

    • Exaggerated and unfeasible conservation claims: At low numbers, the introduced cheetahs might not be able to effectively impact the ecosystem functions.
    • 750 sq-km Kuno national park could limit their movement: Unlike other large cats, free- ranging cheetahs are characterised by disproportionately large home ranges and very low population densities.
      • Due to their homing instincts, diurnal nature and large home ranges, cheetahs are likely to stray outside of territory and come in contact with humans.
      • Cheetahs could face attacks from or be forced to compete for food with aggressive predators such as tigers and leopards.
    • Difficulties in adaptation: African Cheetahs may find it difficult to adapt to India’s climatic conditions.
    • Risk of diseases: There is a risk of disease spread to both the individual animals that are being introduced and to the wildlife species which inhabit the site.
    • Displacement of local communities: Several villages have been relocated for the project and introducing more Cheetahs may require more relocation.

    The reintroduction of apex carnivores should be seen as “ecosystem conservation” rather than merely as species conservation. However, a thorough disease screening process should be followed, along with counselling and training of local communities.

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