Explore India’s biodiversity, forest conservation, and the impact of human activities on wildlife and natural resources.
Chapter 2 Forest and Wildlife Resources
Class 10 NCERT Geography: Contemporary India-II |
Questions Answers
Updated for 2024-2025 Exams
Q.1 Which of the following conservation strategies do not
directly involve community participation?
Ans. (d) Demarcation of Wildlife sanctuaries.
Q.2 Match the following:
– Reserved forests: Forests are regarded as most valuable as
far as the conservation of forest and wildlife resources.
– Protected forests: Forest lands are protected from any
further depletion.
– Unclassed forests: Other forests and wastelands belonging
to both government and private individuals and communities.
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Q.3 Answer the following questions in about 30 words:
Q.3(i) What is biodiversity? Why is biodiversity important
for human lives?
Ans. Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms in an
ecosystem, including plants, animals, and microorganisms. It is crucial for
human lives as it maintains ecological balance, supports natural processes like
air purification, water filtration, and food production, which are essential
for our survival.
Q.3(ii) How have human activities affected the depletion of
flora and fauna? Explain.
Ans. Human activities such as deforestation, overgrazing,
mining, poaching, and pollution have led to habitat destruction, loss of
biodiversity, and the extinction of many species. This has disrupted ecosystems
and diminished natural resources.
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Q.4 Answer the following questions in about 120 words:
Q.4(i) Describe how communities have conserved and protected
forests and wildlife in India?
Ans. Indian communities have played a significant role in
conserving forests and wildlife. For example, the Bishnoi community in
Rajasthan protects blackbucks and peacocks as part of their tradition. The
Chipko Movement in the Himalayas saw villagers, especially women, hugging trees
to prevent deforestation. In Sariska Tiger Reserve, local communities resisted
mining activities. The Joint Forest Management (JFM) program, started in 1988,
involves local communities in managing and restoring degraded forests. These
efforts emphasize community participation, recognizing that local people’s
livelihoods are closely tied to forest resources and sustainable management is
essential for their long-term well-being.
Q.4(ii) Write a note on good practices towards conserving
forest and wildlife.
Ans. Good practices towards conserving forests and wildlife
include afforestation, sustainable forest management, and the protection of endangered
species through wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. Programs like Project
Tiger aim to conserve specific species, while community-based movements like
the Chipko Movement emphasize local engagement. Joint Forest Management (JFM)
involves locals in forest protection, allowing them to benefit from non-timber
products. Sacred groves, where local communities protect forests for religious
reasons, also contribute to conservation. Additionally, promoting biodiversity,
reducing deforestation, and sustainable agricultural practices like organic
farming help maintain ecological balance.