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Home/upsc: conservation/Page 2

Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions

Kumudini Lakhia
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Kumudini LakhiaEnthusiast
Asked: January 20, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction to Rewilding Define rewilding in the context of environmental conservation. Mention the main goal: restoring ecosystems altered by human activity by reintroducing wildlife and natural processes. Briefly state its relevance to biodiversity restoration. 2. Explanation of Rewilding Highlight rewilding as ...

upsc: conservation
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Rewilding is an innovative approach to environmental conservation aimed at restoring ecosystems that have been altered by human activities to their natural state. It involves allowing wildlife and natural processes to reclaim areas that are no longer under human management, helping to rRead more

    Model Answer

    Rewilding is an innovative approach to environmental conservation aimed at restoring ecosystems that have been altered by human activities to their natural state. It involves allowing wildlife and natural processes to reclaim areas that are no longer under human management, helping to rejuvenate biodiversity and ecosystem functions.

    Principles Guiding Rewilding Initiatives

    1. Utilization of Wildlife
      Rewilding efforts should include the reintroduction of keystone species that play a critical role in ecological balance. These species help restore trophic interactions and contribute to ecosystem health. For instance, the reintroduction of the rare pygmy hog in Assam’s Manas National Park and Tiger Reserve is an example of this principle in action.
    2. Identification of Core Areas
      Rewilding requires securing core areas that support diverse species, restoring connectivity between these regions, and ensuring that humans and wildlife can coexist peacefully. Critical Wildlife Habitats, such as those established in national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, help protect these essential areas.
    3. Community Engagement
      Local community support is vital for the success of rewilding projects. In the Western Himalayan region, local communities actively protect snow leopard habitats, showing the importance of involving indigenous knowledge and fostering stewardship.
    4. Focus on Ecological Recovery
      Rewilding initiatives should prioritize the recovery of ecological processes and interactions that once existed in healthy ecosystems. These efforts must be based on scientific evidence and local knowledge to guide restoration.
    5. Climate Change Mitigation
      Rewilding projects should address the impacts of climate change by incorporating adaptive strategies. For example, the ecological restoration in the Aravali Biodiversity Park uses climate-resilient tree species like babool and ghatbor.
    6. Scientific and Local Knowledge
      A successful rewilding approach must integrate both scientific research and local, traditional knowledge. Sacred groves in the Western Ghats, managed with a blend of religious and ecological understanding, exemplify this approach.
    7. Adaptive Management
      Continuous monitoring and adaptive management strategies are essential for ensuring rewilding projects remain effective and can evolve based on changing ecological and climatic conditions.

    These principles form the foundation for rewilding efforts that aim to restore biodiversity, mitigate climate change, and achieve long-term ecological sustainability.

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Krishna Vasudev
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Krishna VasudevLearner
Asked: July 27, 2024In:
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Evaluate how well India’s payment for ecosystem services (PES) programs work to encourage conservation initiatives.

upsc: conservation
  1. Kartik Raman
    Kartik Raman Begginer

    Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) schemes are designed to provide financial incentives to landowners or communities for managing their land in ways that protect or enhance ecosystem services. In India, these schemes aim to address environmental degradation, conserve biodiversity, and support sustRead more

    Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) schemes are designed to provide financial incentives to landowners or communities for managing their land in ways that protect or enhance ecosystem services. In India, these schemes aim to address environmental degradation, conserve biodiversity, and support sustainable land use practices. Here’s an assessment of the effectiveness of PES schemes in incentivizing conservation efforts in India:

    1. Overview of PES Schemes in India

    Concept:

    • PES Schemes: PES involve transactions where landowners or resource managers are compensated for providing ecosystem services such as clean water, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity conservation.
    • Implementation: Various PES schemes have been implemented in India, often focusing on forest conservation, watershed management, and biodiversity protection.

    Examples:

    • Forestry Programs: Initiatives like the Joint Forest Management (JFM) and the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) include components that align with PES principles.
    • Watershed Management: Programs like the Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) incorporate PES elements to incentivize sustainable land use in watersheds.

    2. Effectiveness of PES Schemes

    Positive Outcomes:

    • Enhanced Conservation Efforts: PES schemes have led to improvements in conservation practices, including reforestation, improved watershed management, and enhanced biodiversity protection.
      • Case Study: In the Western Ghats, PES schemes have supported reforestation and sustainable agriculture practices, contributing to biodiversity conservation and improved ecosystem health.
    • Increased Community Involvement: By providing financial incentives, PES schemes encourage local communities to actively participate in conservation efforts and sustainable land management.
      • Case Study: The Satpura Landscape Program has engaged local communities in conservation activities, improving forest management and reducing poaching.
    • Sustainable Livelihoods: PES can provide alternative income sources for communities, reducing the reliance on activities that degrade the environment.
      • Case Study: The Agastya Nature Foundation’s PES program has provided training and financial support to communities in Karnataka, leading to better conservation outcomes and enhanced local livelihoods.

    Challenges:

    • Limited Scale and Coverage: Many PES schemes in India are small-scale or pilot projects with limited geographical coverage, making it challenging to assess their impact on a larger scale.
      • Issue: The effectiveness of PES schemes can be constrained by their limited reach, preventing widespread adoption and impact.
    • Inadequate Funding: Some PES schemes face challenges related to insufficient funding or irregular payments, which can undermine their effectiveness and sustainability.
      • Issue: Inconsistent funding can lead to a lack of trust and commitment from participants, affecting the long-term success of PES schemes.
    • Complex Implementation: The design and implementation of PES schemes can be complex, requiring coordination between various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and local communities.
      • Issue: Complexities in scheme design and stakeholder engagement can lead to inefficiencies and challenges in achieving desired conservation outcomes.
    • Monitoring and Evaluation: Effective monitoring and evaluation mechanisms are essential for assessing the impact of PES schemes, but these can be lacking or inadequately developed in some cases.
      • Issue: Without robust monitoring, it is difficult to measure the effectiveness of PES schemes and make necessary adjustments.

    3. Case Studies and Success Stories

    1. Western Ghats:

    • Implementation: PES schemes in the Western Ghats have supported reforestation, watershed management, and sustainable agriculture.
    • Outcome: Improved forest cover, enhanced biodiversity, and better watershed health.

    2. Satpura Landscape Program:

    • Implementation: Engaged local communities in forest management and anti-poaching activities.
    • Outcome: Better forest management practices and reduced poaching incidents.

    3. Agastya Nature Foundation (Karnataka):

    • Implementation: Provided financial support and training for sustainable land management.
    • Outcome: Improved conservation practices and enhanced livelihoods for local communities.

    4. Strategies for Improvement

    1. Scaling Up:

    • Expand Coverage: Increase the scale and coverage of PES schemes to enhance their impact and reach more areas in need of conservation.
    • National Framework: Develop a national framework for PES to standardize practices and improve coordination across regions.

    2. Secure Funding:

    • Diversify Funding Sources: Explore diverse funding sources, including private sector investments, government support, and international grants.
    • Ensure Regular Payments: Establish mechanisms to ensure timely and consistent payments to participants.

    3. Simplify Implementation:

    • Streamline Processes: Simplify the design and implementation processes for PES schemes to reduce complexity and improve efficiency.
    • Engage Stakeholders: Foster effective collaboration between stakeholders to enhance the success of PES schemes.

    4. Strengthen Monitoring and Evaluation:

    • Develop Robust Metrics: Create robust monitoring and evaluation metrics to assess the impact of PES schemes and make data-driven adjustments.
    • Regular Reporting: Implement regular reporting and feedback mechanisms to track progress and address challenges.

    Conclusion

    PES schemes in India have shown promise in incentivizing conservation efforts, improving community involvement, and supporting sustainable livelihoods. However, their effectiveness is currently limited by challenges related to scale, funding, implementation complexity, and monitoring. By addressing these challenges and implementing strategies for improvement, PES schemes can become a more effective tool for conservation and sustainable development in India.

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Sunita Soni
  • 1
Sunita SoniBegginer
Asked: July 24, 2024In:
  • 1

Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESP): What Are They? Draw attention to their importance and related difficulties.

upsc: conservation
  1. Firoj dud
    Firoj dud Begginer

    Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) or Ecologically Fragile Areas (EFAs) are areas notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) around Protected Areas (PA), National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries, under provisions of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The delineation of ESZRead more

    Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) or Ecologically Fragile Areas (EFAs) are areas notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) around Protected Areas (PA), National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries, under provisions of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The delineation of ESZ is site specific and relates to regulation rather than prohibition of specific activities.

    Significance of ESZS:

    • Acts as shock absorber: PAs are based on the core-buffer model of conservation. While core areas have legal status of being a national park, buffer areas don’t have such a status and can be a reserved forest, wildlife sanctuary or tiger reserve. ESZs thus act as a transition zone from areas of high protection to areas of lesser protection and work as shock absorbers around PAs.
    • Minimizes harmful impacts of developmental activities: Some activities like movement of commercial vehicles at night, construction of roads etc. are allowed but regulated in ESZs. Therefore, such transition zones minimize adverse impacts of developmental activities around PAs.
    • Conserve biodiversity: Areas outside PA network are vital ecological corridor links and require protection to prevent biodiversity fragmentation. ESZs help in conserving biodiversity, reducing forest depletion and man-animal conflict.
    • Promote Eco-tourism: ESZs help in in-situ conservation of flora and fauna and promote eco- tourism.
    • Bottoms up approach: Respective states, local bodies and experts are involved in deciding the extent of ESZ, permitted activities in it and management of the area.

    Challenges associated with ESZS

    • Identification of ESZS
      • As per 2011 Guidelines, proposals for ESZ should be prepared by states. However, states hesitate to finalize ESZ as it might hamper finances due to closure of industries and tourism activities. Presence of minerals and resources near PAs further disrupts the identification of ESZS.
      • For PAs around heavily populated urban areas such as Guindy National Park in Chennai, ESZ loses relevance as its limit extends up to a few meters only.
    • Lack of consultation: A survey of the implementation of ESZs in the Jim Corbett National park revealed that it is an exclusionary mode of conservation that does not include local communities in consultation process, displaces them and denies them their livelihoods.
    • Developmental activities:
      • Activities such as construction of dams, roads, urban and rural infrastructures in ESZs negatively impact the environment and cause habitat destruction.
      • States like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand and Goa etc have deliberately kept mining areas out of ESZs, irrespective of its ecological value.
    • Insufficient regulation of tourism: There are no policies to regulate tourism. Hotels and mega resorts dominate the area and locals are restricted to low paying jobs. Also, the current guidelines do not put any restriction on the vehicular pollution in the area.

    Identifying the importance of ESZs, the Madhav Gadgil committee (2011) had recommended converting the whole Western Ghats into an ESZ. The Kasturirangan committee (2012) had recommended a complete ban on quarrying and sand mining in the ESZs and to demarcate the cultural and natural landscape of the area. In 2018, the Supreme Court ordered MoEFCC to declare an area of 10Km around 21 National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries as ESZs.

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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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Rani Singh
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Rani SinghLearner
Asked: June 22, 2024In:
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What is natural farming with no budget (ZBNF)? Talk about its importance and difficulties in comparison to traditional farming. (Answer in 200 words)

upsc: conservation
  1. Anushree Singh
    Anushree Singh Begginer

    Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) is a farming practice that promotes minimal external inputs and emphasizes natural processes to maintain soil fertility and productivity. Here’s a humanized overview of ZBNF, its significance, and challenges compared to traditional farming: Zero Budget Natural FarmRead more

    Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) is a farming practice that promotes minimal external inputs and emphasizes natural processes to maintain soil fertility and productivity. Here’s a humanized overview of ZBNF, its significance, and challenges compared to traditional farming:

    Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF):
    ZBNF is rooted in ancient farming practices but has been systematized by Subhash Palekar, an Indian agriculturist. The core principle is to eliminate external inputs such as synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Instead, it utilizes locally available resources like cow dung, cow urine, and crop residues to enhance soil health and fertility. The term “zero budget” implies that farmers do not incur costs for purchasing external inputs, hence reducing their financial burden.

    • Significance:
      1. Environmental Sustainability: ZBNF promotes biodiversity, conserves water, and reduces soil erosion by maintaining natural ecological balances. It minimizes chemical pollution and greenhouse gas emissions associated with traditional farming practices.

      2. Cost-Effectiveness: By eliminating the need for expensive synthetic inputs, ZBNF reduces production costs for farmers. It improves their economic resilience and reduces dependency on external markets for inputs, thereby enhancing food security.

    • 3. Soil Health: By focusing on organic matter and microbial activity in the soil, ZBNF improves soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability over the long term. This leads to sustainable yields without degrading soil fertility.
    • 4. Community Empowerment: ZBNF encourages farmer autonomy and knowledge sharing within communities. It revitalizes traditional farming wisdom and empowers farmers to make informed decisions based on their local ecological conditions.

    Challenges vis-a-vis Traditional Farming:
    1 . Transition Period:Adopting ZBNF requires a transition period where farmers may experience initial yield fluctuations or pest management challenges as the soil ecosystem adjusts to organic methods.

    2. Knowledge and Training: Farmers need access to training and support to effectively implement ZBNF practices. Traditional farming methods are deeply ingrained, and shifting mindsets requires continuous education and demonstration of successful outcomes.

    3. Market Access: ZBNF products may face challenges in accessing markets that are accustomed to conventional produce. Certification and labeling processes for organic products can also be cumbersome for small-scale farmers.

    4. Scaling Up: Scaling ZBNF practices to larger farms or commercial agriculture requires supportive policies, infrastructure for organic inputs, and market incentives to ensure profitability.

    In conclusion, Zero Budget Natural Farming represents a sustainable alternative to conventional farming practices, promoting ecological balance, economic viability, and community empowerment. While it presents challenges in adoption and scaling, its potential to transform agriculture towards sustainability makes it a significant approach in India’s quest for food security and environmental stewardship.

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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
  • 0
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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Anirudh Singh
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Anirudh SinghLearner
Asked: July 27, 2024In:
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Talk about how community involvement helps India’s conservation measures get implemented effectively.

upsc: conservation
  1. Meena Mehara
    Meena Mehara Learner

    Role of Community Participation in Effective Implementation of Conservation Policies in India 1. Importance of Community Participation in Conservation a. Enhancing Local Stewardship Local Knowledge and Practices: Communities possess indigenous knowledge and traditional practices crucial for managingRead more

    Role of Community Participation in Effective Implementation of Conservation Policies in India

    1. Importance of Community Participation in Conservation

    a. Enhancing Local Stewardship

    • Local Knowledge and Practices: Communities possess indigenous knowledge and traditional practices crucial for managing local ecosystems. For instance, the Van Panchayat system in Uttarakhand empowers local forest councils to manage and conserve forest resources effectively by incorporating traditional forest management practices.
    • Ownership and Responsibility: When communities are involved in decision-making, they are more likely to take ownership and responsibility for conservation efforts. This sense of ownership is vital for the long-term sustainability of conservation projects.

    b. Bridging Gaps Between Policy and Ground Realities

    • On-the-Ground Insights: Local communities provide valuable insights into the ecological and socio-economic realities of their areas, helping to tailor conservation policies to actual needs. The Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) established under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 are a good example where local knowledge helps in drafting biodiversity management plans.

    2. Successful Examples of Community Participation

    a. Joint Forest Management (JFM)

    • Overview: JFM involves local communities in managing and protecting forest resources. Under this approach, communities have a stake in forest conservation and receive benefits such as non-timber forest products.
    • Recent Example: In Madhya Pradesh, JFM has led to successful regeneration of degraded forests and improved livelihoods for local communities. The Sajjangarh Forest Division in the state has seen significant improvements in forest cover and biodiversity due to active community participation.

    b. Conservation of the Western Ghats

    • Overview: The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is managed through community-based conservation programs. Local organizations and communities play a key role in monitoring and protecting the region’s rich biodiversity.
    • Recent Example: The Western Ghats Conservation Network involves local communities in conservation activities, including monitoring wildlife and protecting critical habitats. Their efforts have contributed to better conservation outcomes and increased awareness among local populations.

    c. Participatory Wildlife Management

    • Overview: Community involvement in wildlife management helps mitigate human-wildlife conflicts and supports conservation efforts.
    • Recent Example: The Kaziranga National Park in Assam engages local communities in anti-poaching activities and habitat management. The Eco-Development Committees formed in and around the park assist in conservation efforts and benefit from sustainable tourism initiatives.

    3. Challenges in Community Participation

    a. Ensuring Genuine Involvement

    • Tokenism: In some cases, community participation is superficial, with limited actual involvement in decision-making. Ensuring that participation is genuine and meaningful is a significant challenge.
    • Example: In some regions, community involvement in conservation projects has been more about consultation than active participation, leading to dissatisfaction and ineffective outcomes.

    b. Balancing Conservation and Development Needs

    • Conflicting Interests: Balancing conservation goals with the developmental needs of communities can be challenging. Conflicts may arise when conservation policies restrict access to resources essential for livelihoods.
    • Example: The implementation of Protected Areas may sometimes lead to conflicts with local communities who rely on these areas for subsistence, necessitating careful planning and compensation measures.

    4. Policy and Programmatic Interventions

    a. Strengthening Legal Frameworks

    • Recommendations: Enhancing legal frameworks to ensure meaningful community participation in conservation efforts is essential. The Forest Rights Act, 2006 is an example where legal recognition of community rights supports effective conservation through empowerment.
    • Recent Example: Amendments to the Wildlife Protection Act to incorporate community rights and benefits can further align conservation objectives with local needs.

    b. Capacity Building and Support

    • Recommendations: Providing training, resources, and technical support to communities can enhance their capacity to participate effectively in conservation activities. Government programs and NGOs should focus on building local capacities.
    • Recent Example: The National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS) has been leveraged to fund community-driven conservation and sustainable development projects, providing both employment and environmental benefits.

    c. Promoting Collaborative Approaches

    • Recommendations: Encouraging collaboration between government agencies, NGOs, and local communities fosters effective conservation strategies. Multi-stakeholder approaches can help reconcile conservation goals with community interests.
    • Recent Example: The National Biodiversity Action Plan (NBAP) involves collaborative efforts among various stakeholders to integrate conservation with local development priorities.

    5. Conclusion

    Community participation is crucial for the effective implementation of conservation policies in India. By leveraging local knowledge, ensuring genuine involvement, and addressing challenges related to conflicting interests and balancing development needs, community-driven conservation can enhance the sustainability and impact of conservation efforts. Successful examples, such as the Joint Forest Management (JFM) and participatory wildlife management programs, demonstrate the potential benefits of active community engagement. To further improve conservation outcomes, it is essential to strengthen legal frameworks, support capacity building, and promote collaborative approaches.

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Manoj Singh
  • 0
Manoj SinghLearner
Asked: June 22, 2024In:
  • 0

In your opinion, does the Gross Environment Product (GEP) need to be considered when calculating GDP? Moreover, highlight the problems in obtaining GEP. (Answer in 200 words)

upsc: conservation
  1. Puja Singh
    Puja Singh Begginer
    This answer was edited.

    Gross Environment Product (GEP) is the total value of final ecosystem services supplied to human well-being in a region annually and can be measured in terms of biophysical value and monetary value. It indicates the overall health of the environment, as the GEP measures prime indicators such as foreRead more

    Gross Environment Product (GEP) is the total value of final ecosystem services supplied to human well-being in a region annually and can be measured in terms of biophysical value and monetary value. It indicates the overall health of the environment, as the GEP measures prime indicators such as forest cover, soil erosion, air quality and dissolved oxygen in river water.

    Need for GEP accounting in GDP calculation:

    • Economic growth alone cannot represent true economic development: Economic growth may adversely impact human well-being if it is accompanied by growing inequity and environmental degradation. Resource depletion during industrial growth impacts rural growth disproportionately, as the rural economy largely depends on natural resources.
      • GEP thus forms a balanced development approach where ecology is given equal space. Accounting GEP into GDP will give a true measure of the nation’s growth towards sustainable development.
    • Shortcomings of traditional systems: The traditional System of National Accounts (SNA) like GDP/GNP does not account for the value of natural resources and ecosystem services, like the provisioning services (food, wood etc.) and regulating services (water purification, carbon sequestration etc.).
      • Also, the value of environmental/resource degradation taking place during the developmental process are not taken into account.
    • Framing adequate policies: GEP helps in understanding the impact of anthropological pressure on our ecosystem and natural resources. This will enable us to make policies that will balance ecology and economy.

    Despite its significance, there are several issues in capturing GEP, including:

    • Knowledge gap: There is lack of data and an existent challenge to assign a monetary value to ecosystem services. Assigning monetary value to ecosystem services is possible only to a limited extent.
      • For example, the Pipal tree in India is revered as a holy tree and religious ceremonies are conducted under its shade. Here, economic valuation of the tree cannot encompass the complexity and the ecological, socio-cultural and institutional heterogeneity of a particular area.
    • Policy gap: There is lack of recognition of ecosystem services in economic decision-making, development planning and resource allocation. Value of ecosystem services is either ignored or not understood adequately.
    • Institutional failure: Insufficient ‘Compensation for Ecosystem Services’ (CES) is provided by the government to the stakeholders. CES involves recognising and compensating people who manage the land that contribute to the long-term security of ecosystem functions. A prominent CES mechanism is ‘Payments for Ecosystem Services’ (PES).

    Therefore, there is an urgent need to incorporate environmental assets in GDP calculation by collecting data on various types of natural capitals like forests, groundwater etc. and converting them into monetary terms. Most recently, Uttarakhand has shown the way by becoming the first state in India to take into account the Gross Environment Product (GEP) while calculating its Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

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Bhavesh Desai
  • 0
Bhavesh DesaiBegginer
Asked: July 27, 2024In:
  • 0

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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