Natural Vegetation
EXERCISES
1. Choose the right answer from the four alternatives given below.
(i) Sandalwood is an example of:
(a) Evergreen forest (c) Deltaic forest
(b) Deciduous forest (d) Thorny forest
Ans: (b) Deciduous forest.
(ii) Which one of the following was the purpose of Project Tiger?
(a) to kill tigers (c) to protect tigers from illegal hunting
(b) to put tigers in the Zoo (d) to make films on tigers
Ans: (c) to protect tigers from illegal hunting.
(iii) In which one of the following states is the Nandadevi Biosphere reserve
situated?
(a) Bihar (c) Uttarakhand
(b) Uttar Pradesh (d) Odisha
Ans: (c) Uttarakhand.
(iv) How many of the Biosphere reserves from India are recognised by the UNESCO?
(a) One (c) Eleven
(b) Two (d) Four
Ans: (c) Eleven.
(v) Which one of the following proportion of area of the country was targeted to be under forest in Forest Policy of India?
(a) 3 3 (c) 5 5
(b) 4 4 (d) 2 2
Ans: (a) 3 3.
2. Answer the following questions in about 30 words.
(i) What is natural vegetation? Under what climatic conditions are tropical evergreen forests develop?
Ans: Natural vegetation: Plant communities growing uninfluenced by humans, diverse and adapted to local conditions.
Tropical evergreen forests: Lush & layered, found in hot & humid regions with abundant rainfall (>200cm/year), year-round warm temperatures, and minimal seasonal variations. Imagine a vibrant jungle teeming with life!
(ii) What do you understand by social forestry?
Ans: Social forestry: Planting and managing trees for community benefits, aiming to combine environmental conservation with livelihoods, fuel, and fodder for rural populations. Think trees enriching lives and landscapes together.
(iii) Define Biosphere reserves?
Ans: Biosphere reserves are protected areas preserving diverse ecosystems & promoting harmony between people & nature. They combine strict conservation zones with buffer zones where sustainable activities like research & education flourish. Imagine nature reserves with a human touch, fostering life and knowledge.
(iv) What is the difference between forest area and forest cover?
Ans: The key difference:
*Forest Area: Officially designated land designated as forests by the government, regardless of current tree cover. It's like a legal label.
*Forest Cover: Land actually covered by trees, regardless of legal designation. It's about the real trees on the ground.
Think of it this way: Forest Area is a promise, while Forest Cover is the reality.
3. Answer the following questions in not more than 150 words.
(i) What steps have been taken up to conserve forests?
Ans: Several steps have been taken to conserve forests in India:
*Protected Areas: Establishing National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, and Biosphere Reserves to safeguard biodiversity and restrict activities like logging.
*Afforestation & Reforestation: Planting trees in degraded areas to increase forest cover and restore vital ecosystems.
*Joint Forest Management: Empowering local communities to participate in forest protection and management, fostering a sense of ownership.
*Policy & Legislation: Strengthening laws like the Wildlife Protection Act and Forest Conservation Act to control deforestation and illegal activities.
*Sustainable Forestry Practices: Promoting selective logging and eco-friendly practices to minimize forest damage and ensure long-term sustainability.
*Awareness & Education: Raising public awareness about the importance of forests through campaigns, environmental education, and community engagement.
These efforts offer a multifaceted approach to forest conservation, addressing ecological, social, and economic aspects. While challenges remain, India's commitment to forest protection continues to evolve, aiming for a sustainable future for both nature and people.
(ii) How can people’s participation be effective in conserving forests and wildlife?
Ans: People's participation can be a powerful tool in conserving forests and wildlife, bringing diverse perspectives and hands-on support. Here are some ways:
Direct Action:
*Planting trees: Community tree-planting initiatives help reforest degraded areas and increase green cover.
*Patrolling and Monitoring: Local volunteers can assist officials in monitoring forests, reporting illegal activities, and protecting wildlife.
*Sustainable Practices: Adopting eco-friendly agricultural methods minimizes environmental impact and protects surrounding ecosystems.
Advocacy and Awareness:
*Education and Outreach: Raising awareness about the importance of conservation through campaigns, workshops, and educational programs fosters a culture of care for nature.
*Lobbying and Policy Advocacy: Engaging with policymakers and supporting conservation-friendly legislation drives systemic change.
*Responsible Consumerism: Choosing products certified sustainable and avoiding those linked to deforestation and wildlife exploitation sends a powerful message.
Support and Collaboration:
*Supporting wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centers and ethical tourism initiatives contribute to their vital work.
*Volunteering with NGOs and conservation organizations offers valuable hands-on experience and support.
*Sharing knowledge and traditional practices held by local communities can complement scientific conservation efforts.
By actively participating in these ways, people can be crucial partners in protecting the natural world for future generations. Remember, every action, from planting a tree to raising awareness, can make a difference!
Project/Activity
1. On the outline map of India, mark and label the following.
(i) Areas having Mangrove forests.
(ii) Biosphere reserves of Nanda Devi, Sunderbans, Gulf of Mannar and
Nilgiri.
(iii) Mark the location of Forest Survey of India Head Quarter.
2. List the trees, bush and shrub species found around your school. Write
their local names and their uses.
Answer By: Himashree Bora.
