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Home/upsc: conservation/Page 4

Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions

Vihaan Choudhury
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Vihaan ChoudhuryLearner
Asked: January 22, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing To answer the question effectively, break it down into two parts: the success of Project Tiger and the additional measures required for holistic conservation. 1. Introduction Briefly introduce Project Tiger (launched in 1973) with its aim to protect the ...

upsc: conservation
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer The success of Project Tiger in Safeguarding Tigers Project Tiger, launched in 1973, has played a crucial role in addressing the rapid decline of the tiger population in India due to poaching and habitat destruction. The project has successfully supported tiger population recovery and eRead more

    Model Answer

    The success of Project Tiger in Safeguarding Tigers

    Project Tiger, launched in 1973, has played a crucial role in addressing the rapid decline of the tiger population in India due to poaching and habitat destruction. The project has successfully supported tiger population recovery and expansion of protected areas.

    1. Population Recovery: Tiger numbers have grown significantly, from about 1,411 in 2006 to 3,682 in 2022, showcasing the project’s success in conservation efforts.
    2. Expansion of Protected Areas: The number of tiger reserves has increased from 9 in 1973 to 55 by 2024, ensuring better protection of habitats.
    3. International Recognition: India’s efforts have gained global recognition, with 23 of its tiger reserves receiving the prestigious CATS (Conservation Assured Tiger Standards) accreditation.
    4. Ecosystem Services: Tiger habitats, critical for biodiversity, also enhance ecosystem services, such as supporting over 600 rivers that originate from or are nourished by tiger-bearing forests.

    Challenges to Holistic Conservation

    Despite significant progress, several challenges remain in ensuring the long-term survival of tigers.

    1. Inbreeding and Genetic Health: A study in 2021 highlighted genetic issues, particularly in the Ranthambore tiger population, indicating a need for “genetic rescue” to prevent inbreeding depression.
    2. Habitat Degradation and Fragmentation: Human activities such as mining in reserves like Corbett Tiger Reserve threaten tiger habitats, restricting their movement and survival.
    3. Human-Wildlife Conflict: As tiger territories expand into human settlements, conflicts increase, leading to both human and tiger casualties.

    Steps for Holistic Tiger Conservation

    1. Genetic Management and Tiger Translocation: Implement protocols for translocation and genetic management to maintain healthy populations and prevent inbreeding.
    2. Enhanced Habitat Connectivity: Restoring ecological corridors and developing green infrastructure like wildlife overpasses will improve connectivity and safe movement for tigers.
    3. Community Involvement and Benefit Sharing: Engaging local communities in conservation, including sharing tourism profits, can foster support for conservation efforts.
    4. Conflict Mitigation: Implementing better early warning systems, creating physical barriers, and providing compensation to affected communities will help reduce human-tiger conflicts.

    Conclusion
    Project Tiger has significantly advanced tiger conservation, but continued efforts towards genetic management, habitat connectivity, and community engagement are essential for sustaining these achievements and ensuring the tiger’s future in India.

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Rubi Gautam
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Rubi GautamBegginer
Asked: July 24, 2024In:
  • 1

Emphasize the ecosystem services that wetlands offer. Additionally, describe the reasons behind India’s loss of wetlands.

upsc: conservation
  1. Neeru Kumari
    Neeru Kumari Begginer

    A wetland is a distinct ecosystem that is flooded by water, either permanently or seasonally, where oxygen-free processes prevail. The primary factor that distinguishes wetlands from other landforms or water bodies is the characteristic vegetation of aquatic plants. They are reservoirs of biodiversiRead more

    A wetland is a distinct ecosystem that is flooded by water, either permanently or seasonally, where oxygen-free processes prevail. The primary factor that distinguishes wetlands from other landforms or water bodies is the characteristic vegetation of aquatic plants.

    They are reservoirs of biodiversity and provide a range of ecosystem services, which benefit us, including

    • Groundwater replenishment: Wetland systems are directly linked to groundwater and a crucial regulator of both the quantity and quality of water found below the ground.
    • Water purification: Many wetland systems possess biofilters, hydrophytes, and organisms that in addition to nutrient up-take abilities have the capacity to remove toxic substances that have come from pesticides, industrial discharges, and mining activities.
    • Flood control and shoreline stabilisation: Tidal and intertidal wetland systems protect and stabilize coastal zones. Coral reefs and mangroves provide a protective barrier to coastal shoreline. Wetlands help to lessen the impacts of flooding by absorbing water and reducing the speed at which flood water flows.
    • Nutrient retention: Wetland vegetation uptake and store nutrients found in the surrounding soil and water.
    • Aquaculture: Wetlands are used to harvest fish/aquatic animals for human consumption and pharmaceuticals.
    • Wetland products: It includes important products such as rice, honey from mangroves, fuel wood, salt, animal fodder, traditional medicines (e.g. from mangrove bark), fibres for textiles, dyes and tannins etc.
    • Climate change mitigation and adaptation: Wetlands perform mitigation effects through their ability to sink carbon, and adaptation effects through their ability to store and regulate water.
    • Recreational, historical, scientific, and cultural values: Wetlands such as Pushkar lake in Rajasthan are of significant religious, historical or archaeological value to many cultures around the world. They are often popular for recreational activities including hiking, fishing, bird watching, photography and hunting.

    Despite its numerous benefits, India has lost nearly one-third of its natural wetlands over the last four decades as per Wetlands International South Asia (WISA). The causes of wetland loss in India include:

    • Urbanisation: Unplanned urban development and resource extraction has led to encroachment, transformation and draining of wetlands.
    • Hydrologic activities: Construction of canals and diversion of streams and rivers to transport water to lower arid regions for irrigation has altered the drainage pattern and significantly degraded the wetlands of the region.
    • Agricultural activities: Following the Green Revolution, vast stretches of wetlands have been converted to paddy fields. Also, high fertiliser use stimulates algal growth, leading to eutrophication of surface water bodies. Intensive aquaculture: Demand for shrimps and fishes has provided economic incentives to convert wetlands and mangrove forests for development of pisciculture and aquaculture ponds.
    • Invasive species: Indian wetlands are threatened by exotic plant species introduced such as water hyacinth and Salvinia. They clog waterways and compete with native vegetation.
    • Climate change: Increased air temperature; shifts in precipitation; increased frequency of storms, droughts, and floods; sea level rise could also affect wetlands.

    Therefore, the government has brought the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2016 to preserve the ecological character of wetlands through the implementation of ecosystem approaches.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 23, 2024In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Briefly introduce the concept of biodiversity and its significance in India. Mention India’s status as one of the 12 megadiverse countries globally. Biodiversity Variation in India Western Himalayas Highlight unique species like the Blue Poppy and Snow Leopard. Fact: Found in national ...

upsc: conservation
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction India is renowned for its vast biodiversity, encompassing a wide range of plant and animal species, many of which are unique to the region. With diverse habitats, including tropical forests, grasslands, deserts, and coastal areas, India is recognized as one of the 12 megadiRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    India is renowned for its vast biodiversity, encompassing a wide range of plant and animal species, many of which are unique to the region. With diverse habitats, including tropical forests, grasslands, deserts, and coastal areas, India is recognized as one of the 12 megadiverse countries globally.

    Biodiversity Variation in India

    Western Himalayas

    This region features rich biodiversity with alpine vegetation, including rare species like the Blue Poppy and the Snow Leopard, found in national parks such as Hemis and Great Himalayan.

    Eastern Himalayas

    Home to dense forests, the Eastern Himalayas host various plant species, including Rhododendron and fauna like the Red Panda. National parks like Singalila and Namdapha protect this unique biodiversity.

    Indo-Gangetic Plains

    The fertile Indo-Gangetic plains support diverse ecosystems, including wetlands and grasslands, hosting avian species like the Sarus Crane and the Indian Skimmer.

    Western Ghats

    A recognized biodiversity hotspot, the Western Ghats feature lush forests housing endemic species such as the Lion-tailed Macaque and the Nilgiri Tahr, preserved in parks like Periyar and Silent Valley.

    Coastal Regions

    India’s coastal areas, with mangrove forests and marine ecosystems, support rich marine life, including coral reefs and species like sea turtles and dolphins. Notable protected areas include Bhitarkanika and Gulf of Mannar.

    Andaman and Nicobar Islands

    These islands boast extraordinary biodiversity, including endemic species like the Nicobar Megapode. Their marine ecosystems are home to diverse coral reefs.

    Significance of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002

    The Biological Diversity Act, 2002, is pivotal for conserving India’s flora and fauna. It provides a legal framework for the protection and sustainable use of biodiversity, promoting research and equitable benefit-sharing.

    Conservation Measures

    The Act establishes biodiversity management committees, encouraging community participation and empowering indigenous communities. It regulates access to biological resources and protects traditional knowledge linked to biodiversity conservation.

    Preserving Ecosystem Services

    By addressing access to genetic resources and benefit-sharing, the Act safeguards ecosystem services and supports the sustainable utilization of biological resources for current and future generations.

    Conclusion

    The Biological Diversity Act, 2002, plays a crucial role in conserving India’s rich biodiversity. By establishing regulatory frameworks and promoting sustainable practices, it ensures the protection of flora and fauna while benefiting local communities.

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Rohit Valiyan
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Rohit ValiyanLearner
Asked: June 22, 2024In:
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Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): What Are They? Talk about the difficulties in growing the MPA network across the nation while highlighting their importance. (Answer in 200 words)

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

    A Marine Protected Area (MPA) has been defined by the World Conservation Union (IUCN) as "any area of intertidal or subtidal terrain, together with its overlying water, and associated flora, fauna, historical and cultural features, which has been reserved and protected by law or other effective meanRead more

    A Marine Protected Area (MPA) has been defined by the World Conservation Union (IUCN) as “any area of intertidal or subtidal terrain, together with its overlying water, and associated flora, fauna, historical and cultural features, which has been reserved and protected by law or other effective means to protect part or all of the enclosed environment”. In the wake of global threats such as climate change, ocean acidification and intensified resource extraction, the world’s seas are at risk. As a result, many nations have adopted Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) as a tool for conserving biodiversity and ecosystem functions. There are 24 MPAs in peninsular India and more than 100 MPAs in the country’s islands. The Gulf of Kachchh Marine National Park, Gulf of Mannar National Park, Sundarbans National Park and Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park are some of the important MPAs of India.

    Significance of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs):

    • Protecting habitats: A declaration of an area as a Marine Protected Area helps to protect habitats. For example, it can help to restore the nesting sites of the Olive Ridley turtles at Odisha’s Ganjam district, which is under threat due to sea erosion.
    • Helps to protect endemic species: MPAs help the authorities deal with the invasive species to protect the local biodiversity. They are also the key to arresting and possibly reversing the global and local decline in fish populations and productivity by protecting critical breeding, nursery and feeding habits. Further, they are sites for scientific study.
    • Restrict human activities: MPA network declaration addresses habitat conversion to other land use, over exploitation of resources, pollution from domestic and industrial effluents, which otherwise lead to ecosystem degradation and destruction of coastal areas.
    • Aid in income generation: MPAs raise the profile of an area for marine tourism, as they provide sites for nature-based recreation and also broaden local economic options.

    The marine protected area network in India has been used as a tool to manage natural marine resources for biodiversity conservation and for the well-being of people dependent on it.

    Challenges in extending the MPA network in India:

    • Difference of opinion on factors: There is no consensus regarding factors that should be considered in declaring an area as a Marine Protected Area like the size of area, its habitat heterogeneity etc.
    • Financial resources: It is difficult for a developing country like India to maintain and manage such areas in the long-run due to lack of adequate financial resources.
    • Criticised as “paper parks”: Lack of synchronisation between social conditions and conservation efforts have led to MPAs being deemed as mere “paper parks”.
    • Difficulty in extending the network: Due to the socio-economic dependency on coastal areas, it is difficult to extend the MPA network as national parks or sanctuaries.
    • Lack of data: Poor data on status and distribution of the marine species in India has resulted in a compromise of the assessment of the conservation status of coastal and marine species of India using the IUCN Regional Red Listing Guidelines.

    Way forward:

    • Climate change adaptation plan: There is an urgent need to frame a climate change adaptation plan for the coastal and marine protected areas in the country.
    • Inter-departmental coordination: Coordination among all the organizations/institutions that work for conservation of threatened marine species and the welfare of coastal communities is required.
    • Maintaining data: Documentation and updation of database of information obtained through research on threatened marine species is urgently required.
    • Human resource: Development of human resources to manage the MPAs of India is critical.

    Dedicated efforts are required to secure and strengthen community participation in managing the Marine Protected Area network in India. Such efforts will also help to achieve the Aichi Biodiversity Targets, especially Target Number 11 and Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) Target of ’30×30′.

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Kumudini Lakhia
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Kumudini LakhiaEnthusiast
Asked: January 20, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Overview of the role of ethnic and indigenous communities in biodiversity conservation in India. Mention that these communities, living in close proximity to forests, have a long history of managing and conserving biodiversity through traditional knowledge and ...

upsc: conservation
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Ethnic and indigenous communities in India, comprising around 68 million people, play a pivotal role in the conservation of biodiversity. Living in proximity to forests, they have developed sustainable practices that help preserve the natural environment over generations. 1. Cultural anRead more

    Model Answer

    Ethnic and indigenous communities in India, comprising around 68 million people, play a pivotal role in the conservation of biodiversity. Living in proximity to forests, they have developed sustainable practices that help preserve the natural environment over generations.

    1. Cultural and Religious Integration Many tribal communities integrate conservation into their cultural beliefs, often treating certain plants or animals as sacred. For example, the Gond tribe in the Western Ghats protects sacred groves of the mango tree (Mangifera Indica) due to their belief in the tree being the abode of deities. This cultural reverence helps maintain biodiversity by preventing the destruction of these ecosystems.

    2. Use of Traditional Knowledge Indigenous communities possess traditional ecological knowledge, passed down through generations. This knowledge enables them to utilize a wide range of plant species without overexploiting them. For example, tribes in southern India use up to 1,500 plant species, compared to the 100-150 species typically relied upon by others. This diversity helps prevent overharvesting of any single species and promotes ecosystem balance.

    3. Sustainable Practices in Agriculture Tribal communities in India follow sustainable agricultural practices that ensure species conservation. For instance, the Kadars in Tamil Nadu selectively harvest mature yam plants, and the Gaddi and Gujjar tribes practice controlled grazing to prevent the overgrowth of wild grasses. These methods contribute to maintaining the health of local ecosystems.

    4. Species-Specific Conservation Some indigenous tribes avoid hunting certain species they consider sacred. The Adi tribe in Arunachal Pradesh, for example, does not hunt tigers, sparrows, or pangolins, believing these creatures bring good fortune. Such species-specific taboos contribute to species preservation.

    5. Environmental Movements and Collective Responsibility Indigenous communities have initiated numerous environmental movements to protect ecosystems, such as the Bishnoi movement in Rajasthan and the Jungle Bachao Andolan in Bihar. Furthermore, they practice collective responsibility by ensuring that saplings are not destroyed and only necessary resources are collected from nature.

    6. Collaboration with Government Many tribal communities collaborate with governmental bodies and NGOs in conservation efforts. The Singchung Bagun Village Community Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh, for instance, was created to protect a rare bird species through a joint effort between the Bagun tribe, researchers, and the forest department.

    In conclusion, ethnic and indigenous communities have developed an in-depth understanding of local ecosystems, contributing significantly to the conservation of biodiversity in India. Recognizing their vital role and adopting a rights-based approach can greatly enhance India’s conservation efforts.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 23, 2024In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Context: Briefly explain that river linking was once a concept and is now being implemented in India. Thesis Statement: Introduce the advantages of river linking and hint at its environmental impacts. 2. Advantages of River Linking A. Improved Irrigation Fact: ...

upsc: conservation
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction The concept of river linking, once a distant dream, is now becoming a reality in India. This initiative aims to address water scarcity issues across various regions. While river linking offers numerous benefits, it is crucial to evaluate its potential environmental impacts.Read more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    The concept of river linking, once a distant dream, is now becoming a reality in India. This initiative aims to address water scarcity issues across various regions. While river linking offers numerous benefits, it is crucial to evaluate its potential environmental impacts.

    Advantages of River Linking

    Improved Irrigation

    River linking can provide a reliable water source for irrigation in drought-prone areas, reducing dependency on monsoon rains. For instance, the Ken-Betwa river linking project is expected to irrigate over 6 lakh hectares of land, significantly benefiting farmers in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

    Flood Control

    This initiative can also help control floods by redirecting excess water from flood-prone regions to areas in need. The Damanganga-Pinjal river linking project in Maharashtra aims to reduce flooding in Mumbai and Thane by channeling excess water from the Damanganga River to the Pinjal River.

    Hydropower Generation

    Increased hydropower generation is another advantage, aiding in meeting the country’s growing energy demands. The Ken-Betwa project is projected to generate over 1000 MW of hydropower, contributing to sustainable energy solutions.

    Environmental Impact of River Linking

    Disruption of Ecosystem

    One significant concern is the potential disruption of ecosystems, including wetlands and river systems, adversely affecting biodiversity. The interlinking of the Ken and Betwa rivers may lead to the submergence of the Panna Tiger Reserve, threatening wildlife and biodiversity in the area.

    Soil Erosion

    The construction of dams and canals can result in soil erosion, negatively impacting agricultural productivity. For example, the Godavari-Krishna river linking project in Andhra Pradesh may cause soil erosion, thereby affecting local agriculture.

    Conclusion

    River linking presents a complex challenge that necessitates careful consideration of its benefits and environmental impacts. While it promises improvements in water availability and agricultural productivity, the potential ecological consequences must also be addressed. Sustainable implementation is key to balancing these factors for a positive outcome.

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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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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 23, 2024In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Define carbon credits and CDMs within the context of the UNFCCC. State the thesis: Despite the decline in carbon credit value, the pursuit of these mechanisms should be maintained to support India’s energy needs and economic growth. 2. ...

upsc: conservation
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction The pursuit of carbon credits and clean development mechanisms (CDM) established under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is essential for mitigating climate change. However, the recent decline in the value of carbon credits has raised concerRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    The pursuit of carbon credits and clean development mechanisms (CDM) established under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is essential for mitigating climate change. However, the recent decline in the value of carbon credits has raised concerns about their effectiveness in promoting sustainable development and clean energy.

    Benefits of Carbon Credits and CDMs

    1. Incentivizing Emission Reductions: Carbon credits and CDMs encourage companies to lower their carbon footprints, contributing to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
    2. Cost-Effective Solutions: They offer a cost-effective method for developing countries, including India, to reduce emissions while pursuing economic growth.
    3. Revenue Generation: Companies can generate revenue through the sale of carbon credits, which can be reinvested in further sustainability initiatives.

    Challenges of Carbon Credits and CDMs

    1. Declining Value: The significant drop in the value of carbon credits has made investments in carbon reduction projects less attractive for companies.
    2. Complex Processes: Obtaining carbon credits and navigating the CDM process can be time-consuming and costly, deterring participation.
    3. Distraction from Other Initiatives: Focusing on carbon credits may divert attention from other critical initiatives aimed at reducing emissions.

    India’s Energy Needs for Economic Growth

    India is one of the fastest-growing economies and requires substantial energy to sustain its development. While the country is committed to reducing carbon emissions, it must balance this commitment with its energy needs. The reliance on fossil fuels, particularly coal, underscores the urgency of transitioning to cleaner energy sources without compromising economic growth.

    Conclusion

    India’s energy needs necessitate a balanced approach that addresses climate change while ensuring sustainable development. Although carbon credits and CDMs can play a significant role in this transition, they must be re-evaluated and strengthened to effectively incentivize the shift to clean energy and promote sustainable development.

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Manoj Singh
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Manoj SinghLearner
Asked: June 22, 2024In:
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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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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. Meena Mehara
    Meena Mehara Learner

    Challenges in Balancing the Needs of Development and Conservation in Forest Management 1. Conflicting Objectives a. Economic Development vs. Environmental Protection Resource Exploitation: Forests are often cleared for economic development projects such as mining, agriculture, and urbanization. ThisRead more

    Challenges in Balancing the Needs of Development and Conservation in Forest Management

    1. Conflicting Objectives

    a. Economic Development vs. Environmental Protection

    • Resource Exploitation: Forests are often cleared for economic development projects such as mining, agriculture, and urbanization. This exploitation can lead to deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and disruption of ecosystems.
    • Recent Example: The expansion of agricultural activities in the Amazon region of Brazil has led to significant deforestation, impacting global climate regulation and biodiversity. Similarly, in India, the push for industrialization in forested areas like the central Indian region has faced criticism for environmental degradation.

    b. Livelihood Needs vs. Conservation Goals

    • Community Livelihoods: Many rural communities depend on forests for their livelihoods, including gathering fuelwood, non-timber forest products, and grazing lands. Conservation efforts that restrict access to these resources can create economic hardship for these communities.
    • Recent Example: The implementation of the Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary in Rajasthan led to conflicts with local pastoral communities who relied on the grazing lands now designated as protected areas.

    2. Policy and Regulatory Challenges

    a. Fragmented Policies

    • Inconsistent Regulations: Different government policies often lack coordination, leading to fragmented approaches to forest management. This can undermine conservation efforts and complicate the implementation of development projects.
    • Recent Example: The implementation of the Forest Rights Act, 2006 has sometimes clashed with other conservation policies, creating confusion and delays in addressing forest rights and conservation simultaneously.

    b. Enforcement and Compliance

    • Weak Enforcement: Forest regulations are often poorly enforced due to inadequate resources, corruption, and lack of training. This can lead to illegal logging and encroachment.
    • Recent Example: Despite laws prohibiting illegal logging in the Sundarbans National Park, enforcement challenges have led to ongoing deforestation and habitat destruction.

    3. Environmental Impact of Development Projects

    a. Habitat Loss and Biodiversity

    • Ecosystem Disruption: Development projects can result in habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation, leading to a decline in wildlife populations and ecosystem services.
    • Recent Example: The construction of large dams, such as the Narmada Valley Project, has led to extensive displacement of forests and wildlife, with significant impacts on local biodiversity.

    b. Climate Change

    • Carbon Emissions: Deforestation and forest degradation contribute to climate change by releasing stored carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. This exacerbates global warming and affects forest ecosystems.
    • Recent Example: The Ganga Expressway project in Uttar Pradesh has faced criticism for its potential impact on forested areas and its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions.

    4. Social and Economic Implications

    a. Displacement and Resettlement

    • Human Costs: Development projects often require the displacement of indigenous and local communities, leading to loss of their traditional lands and livelihoods. Proper resettlement and compensation are often inadequate.
    • Recent Example: The construction of the Sardar Sarovar Dam led to the displacement of thousands of people, many of whom faced challenges in receiving adequate compensation and resettlement support.

    b. Equity and Inclusion

    • Inclusive Development: Ensuring that both conservation and development efforts address the needs of all stakeholders, particularly marginalized communities, is a significant challenge.
    • Recent Example: The implementation of the National Biodiversity Act has faced challenges in balancing the interests of local communities with broader conservation goals.

    5. Strategies to Address the Challenges

    a. Integrated Planning

    • Holistic Approach: Adopting integrated land-use planning that considers both development and conservation goals can help reconcile conflicting objectives. This involves cross-sectoral coordination and stakeholder engagement.
    • Recent Example: The National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) integrates sustainable agricultural practices with forest conservation efforts to promote environmental sustainability and food security.

    b. Community Participation

    • Empowerment and Involvement: Engaging local communities in forest management decisions can help align conservation and development goals. Providing benefits and incentives to local communities can enhance their support for conservation efforts.
    • Recent Example: The Joint Forest Management (JFM) program in India involves local communities in managing forest resources, leading to improved conservation outcomes and better livelihoods for participating communities.

    c. Strengthening Legal and Institutional Frameworks

    • Improved Enforcement: Strengthening legal frameworks and improving enforcement mechanisms can help ensure compliance with conservation regulations while balancing development needs.
    • Recent Example: The Forest Rights Act, 2006 has been strengthened through the establishment of the Forest Rights Committees, which help in addressing conflicts between forest conservation and community rights.

    d. Promoting Sustainable Development

    • Sustainable Practices: Encouraging sustainable development practices that minimize environmental impact while meeting economic and social needs is crucial. This includes promoting eco-friendly technologies and sustainable land-use practices.
    • Recent Example: The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) emphasizes water-efficient irrigation techniques that support both agricultural productivity and conservation.

    6. Conclusion

    Balancing the needs of development and conservation in forest management presents significant challenges. Conflicting objectives, policy fragmentation, environmental impacts, and social implications all complicate efforts to achieve this balance. However, through integrated planning, community participation, strengthened legal frameworks, and sustainable development practices, it is possible to address these challenges effectively. Recent examples highlight both the progress and the ongoing issues in managing this delicate balance, underscoring the need for continued innovation and collaboration.

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