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Conservation of Ecosystem: NBSE Class 9 Environment
Get summaries, questions, answers, solutions, notes, extras, PDF and guide of Chapter 5 Conservation of Ecosystem, NBSE Class 9 Environmental Education textbook, which is part of the syllabus of students studying under Nagaland Board. These solutions, however, should only be treated as references and can be modified/changed.
If you notice any errors in the notes, please mention them in the comments
Summary
The chapter discusses the importance of conserving ecosystems to protect Earth’s limited resources. It explains that humans must balance development with sustainability to ensure resources last for future generations. People often harm the environment without realizing the consequences, so raising awareness is key. Everyone—regardless of age, education, or wealth—must participate in conservation efforts.
Environmental education helps people understand how their actions affect nature. It teaches students about ecosystems, problem-solving, and sustainable habits like reducing waste. Schools play a role by promoting practices such as recycling and using renewable energy.
Local communities are vital in conservation. In the past, protected areas like national parks displaced people, but newer approaches involve communities in decision-making. For example, “community-based conservation” focuses on protecting biodiversity while supporting local livelihoods. Tribes like the Bishnois in Rajasthan and the Jarawas in the Andaman Islands have long practiced sustainable living. The Bishnois protect trees and animals, while the Jarawas avoid overhunting and respect forests.
Traditional methods include water-saving techniques like ponds, rainwater harvesting, and using dung cakes for fuel. Indigenous farming practices, such as crop rotation and natural pest control, maintain soil health. Modern conservation involves creating national parks, conserving water through watershed management, and using renewable energy like solar or wind power.
Soil conservation techniques like terracing and contour farming prevent erosion. Energy conservation reduces reliance on fossil fuels, and proper waste segregation helps manage biodegradable and non-biodegradable materials. Recycling paper, plastic, and glass minimizes pollution.
Land use planning ensures forests, farms, and cities coexist sustainably. Clearing forests for agriculture or urban growth harms ecosystems, so balancing development with green spaces is critical. Protecting forests prevents soil erosion and desertification.
The chapter stresses that small actions, like saving water or planting trees, add up. It highlights how traditional knowledge and modern science together can address environmental challenges. Everyone’s effort matters in keeping the planet healthy for future generations.
Textbook solutions
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. Amrita Devi clung the
(a) Trees
(b) Axe
(c) Blackbug
(d) Chinkara
Answer: A. Trees
2. Concept of ‘Community Based Conservation’ was brought by the World National Parks Congress in:
(a) 1980
(b) 1970
(c) 1982
(d) 1992
Answer: C. 1982
3. Modern windmills are used for:
(a) Fetch the groundwater
(b) Generate energy
(c) Both (a) and (b)
(d) None of these
Answer: A. Fetch the groundwater
4. ______ is another method of water conservation specially in the arid regions.
(a) Rainwater harvesting
(b) Groundwater
(c) Reservoirs
(d) Watershed
Answer: A. Rainwater harvesting
Very Short Answer Questions
1. Which organization started the ‘Community Based Conservation’?
Answer : The World National Parks Congress started the ‘Community Based Conservation’ in 1982.
2. What are sacred groves?
Answer : Sacred groves are features of mythological landscapes, specifically forests, where tribals worship many trees, birds, and animals. These groves hold spiritual significance and are protected by local communities.
3. Who was ‘Jambhoji’?
Answer : Jambhoji was a resident of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan who realized that the drought in the fifteenth century was the result of man’s interference with nature. Thereafter, he turned into a ‘sanyasi’ and came to be known as Swami Jambeshwar Maharaj, and that marked the beginning of the Bishnoi sect.
4. Where is the heartland of the Bishnois?
Answer : The heartland of the Bishnois is near Jodhpur, which is greener than other areas.
Short Answer Questions
1. What do you understand by ‘community-based conservation’?
Answer : Community-based conservation is a concept brought by the World National Parks Congress in 1982. It aims at conserving biodiversity, managing natural resources, meeting social needs like maintaining local culture, increasing opportunities for income generation, improving health and well-being, lowering management costs, and achieving sustainable outcomes.
2. Give examples of conservation techniques followed by the rural people.
Answer : Examples of conservation techniques followed by rural people include:
(i) Using animal dung to make dung cakes as fuel.
(ii) Utilizing water wheels run by the running water of small streams to grind wheat in hilly areas.
(iii) Employing windmills to fetch groundwater. (iv) Implementing innovative irrigation techniques such as Kuhls in hilly areas and Eris in Tamil Nadu.
(v) Using water conservation techniques like Johads and tankas in the arid areas of Rajasthan and Gujarat.
(vi) Devising small channels of water called Zings from glaciers in Ladakh to bring water to villages.
3. What are the advantages of water conservation?
Answer : The advantages of water conservation include:
(i) Effective watershed management ensures a sufficient supply of freshwater.
(ii) Restoring natural vegetation filters water and increases the storage capacity of water reservoirs.
(iii) Protecting and restoring wetlands stabilizes groundwater supply by holding rainwater and slowly discharging it, acting as flood control reservoirs.
(iv) Rainwater harvesting stores rainwater for later use, preventing it from being wasted as runoff, especially in arid regions.
4. List any two techniques of soil conservation.
Answer : Two techniques of soil conservation are:
(i) Strip cropping, which involves planting alternate strips of crop and uncultivated land to minimize erosion and runoff.
(ii) Contour farming, where crops are planted along the contours of a slope to minimize soil erosion and runoff.
5. List any four alternate sources of energy.
Answer :
(i) Hydropower
(ii) Solar power
(iii) Wind energy
(iv) Tidal energy
6. Differentiate between the biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes.
Answer : Biodegradable waste includes items like fruit and vegetable peels, leaves, grass, and wood, which decompose naturally over time. Non-biodegradable waste, on the other hand, includes materials like plastic, metals, and pesticides, which do not break down easily and persist in the environment for long periods.
7. List any four recyclable waste things.
Answer :
(i) Paper
(ii) Plastic goods
(iii) Metals
(iv) Glass
8. Which ecosystem should dominate the landuse?
Answer : The forest ecosystem should dominate the landuse to conserve the environment effectively.
Long Answer Questions
1. What is community based conservation? Describe its aims.
Answer : Community based conservation is a concept brought by the World National Parks Congress in 1982. It aims at conserving biodiversity, managing natural resources, meeting social needs like maintaining local culture, increasing opportunities for income generation, and improving health and well-being. It also focuses on lowering management costs and achieving sustainable outcomes.
2. Give four examples of conservation that are prevalent in rural India?
Answer : Four examples of conservation that are prevalent in rural India are:
(i) Animal dung is used to make dung cakes as a fuel.
(ii) Water wheels are a common tool in hilly areas, run with the running water of small streams to grind wheat.
(iii) Windmills are used to fetch groundwater.
(iv) Kuhls and Eris are innovative irrigation techniques used in hilly areas and Tamil Nadu, respectively.
3. Give a detailed note on the sacred groves.
Answer : Sacred groves are features of mythological landscapes, specifically forests. Tribals worship many trees, birds, and animals as part of their cultural and spiritual practices. These sacred groves hold deep emotional and spiritual significance for tribals, who believe that mountains, often worshiped by them, are close to the sky or heavens and are considered the abode of gods. Due to this reverence for nature, tribals do not cut down entire trees but only branches, which regrow over time. This practice meets their requirements while also protecting the environment.
4. Give a description on the conservation by Bishnois?
Answer : The Bishnois are a Vaishnav sect living at the fringe of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan who are famous naturalists and conserve the flora and fauna to the extent of sacrificing their lives. Protecting the environment is a part of their sacred traditions, and they believe in the philosophy that every living being has the right to live and share the resources. In the fifteenth century, a resident of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan named Jambhoji realized that the drought was the result of man’s interference with nature. He turned into a sanyasi and came to be known as Swami Jambeshwar Maharaj, marking the beginning of the Bishnoi sect. He laid down 29 tenets for his followers, which include a ban on killing animals, a ban on felling trees especially the khejri tree, and using material other than wood for cremations. Bishnois do not allow hunters and poachers. Sacrifices made by Amrita Devi and many others are heart-rending, as Amrita Devi clung to the tree to stop loggers. The heartland of the Bishnois near Jodhpur is greener compared to other areas, and blackbuck and chinkara are main animals that are not afraid of humans. Such love for the environment makes Bishnois different from other sects in India, and their lifestyle is environment-friendly.
5. What is the role of water conservation in protecting the ecosystem?
Answer : Water conservation plays a crucial role in protecting the ecosystem by ensuring the sustainable management and availability of water resources. Its role includes:
(i) Effective watershed management ensures sufficient supply of freshwater.
(ii) Restoring natural vegetation helps filter water and increases the storage capacity of water reservoirs.
(iii) Protecting and restoring wetlands stabilizes groundwater supply by holding rainwater and slowly discharging it, thus acting as flood control reservoirs.
(iv) Rainwater harvesting is another method of water conservation, especially in arid regions, which stores rainwater for later use that would otherwise be lost as runoff.
In urban areas, rainwater harvesting has become a part of state policy, with newly constructed buildings installing systems to conserve water. Traditional techniques like kunds and tankas in Gujarat and Rajasthan also contribute to water conservation efforts.
6. Discuss the various techniques of soil conservation.
Answer : Various techniques of soil conservation are as follows:
(i) Strip cropping is a method in which alternate strips of crop and uncultivated land minimize erosion and runoff.
(ii) Contour farming is another method in which crops are planted along the contours of a slope to minimize soil erosion and runoff.
(iii) Terracing is another method to save soil from erosion.
Soil is essential for the growth of plants, and all agriculture depends upon it. It takes thousands of years for soil to form, making its conservation critical.
7. Write short notes on the following:
(i) Biodegradable waste
Answer : Biodegradable waste refers to waste materials that can decompose naturally through biological processes. Examples of biodegradable waste include fruit and vegetable peels, leaves, grass, wood, and other organic matter. Proper segregation of biodegradable waste is important for ecosystem conservation as it aids in waste disposal and ensures that such waste can be effectively composted or reused.
(ii) Proper landuse
Answer : Proper landuse refers to the judicious allocation of land for various purposes such as forests, farming, construction, pastures, and wastelands. It is essential for protecting the environment and conserving ecosystems. Maximum land should ideally be kept under forest cover, as forests not only clean the air but also prevent soil erosion and provide numerous resources. Proper landuse planning involves classifying land use, conducting surveys at the national level, reviewing existing rules and regulations, preparing management plans for land improvement, and utilizing remote sensing technology to gather accurate data. In urban areas, proper zoning and allocation of land for buildings, parks, roads, and industries help conserve the urban environment and reduce pressure on land resources.
Extras
Additional questions and answers
1. What is environmental awareness?
Answer : Environmental awareness is having an understanding of the environment, the impacts of human behaviors on it, and the importance of its protection. It involves understanding and appreciating the natural world and the challenges faced in protecting it.
Q. Define conservation.
Answer : Conservation refers to the protection and judicious use of natural resources.
Q. Who was Swami Jambeshwar Maharaj?
Answer : Swami Jambeshwar Maharaj was a resident of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan who, in the fifteenth century, realized that the drought was the result of man’s interference with nature. He turned ‘sanyasi’ and became the founder of the Bishnoi sect, laying down 29 tenets for his followers which included bans on killing animals, felling trees, especially the khejri tree, and using materials other than wood for cremations.
Q. What are Kuhls?
Answer : Kuhls are innovative irrigation techniques used in hilly areas.
Q. Name two tribes of the Andaman Islands.
Answer : Two tribes of the Andaman Islands are the Jarawas and another unnamed tribe mentioned in the context of primitive groups living in peace with nature.
Q. What is the significance of sacred groves in tribal culture?
Answer : Sacred groves are features of mythological landscapes, specifically forests. Tribals worship many trees, birds, and animals, and these groves hold spiritual importance. Mountains are often worshiped by tribals as they are believed to be close to the sky or heavens and are considered the abode of gods. Tribals do not prefer to cut the whole tree but only branches, which regrow over time, meeting their requirements while protecting the environment.
Q. What are Johads?
Answer : Johads are water conservation techniques used in the arid areas of Rajasthan and Gujarat.
Q. What do you understand by Eris?
Answer : Eris are irrigation techniques used in Tamil Nadu.
Q. Name one method used for pest control in indigenous agricultural practices.
Answer : One method used for pest control in indigenous agricultural practices is the use of biological agents.
Q. What is contour farming?
Answer : Contour farming is a method in which crops are planted along the contours of a slope to minimize soil erosion and runoff.
Q. What is strip cropping?
Answer : Strip cropping is a method in which alternate strips of crop and uncultivated land minimize erosion and runoff.
Q. List two alternate sources of energy.
Answer : Two alternate sources of energy are: (i) Hydropower (ii) Solar power
Q. What is the purpose of segregating garbage into biodegradable and non-biodegradable?
Answer : The purpose of segregating garbage into biodegradable and non-biodegradable is to help in the waste disposal. It is important to segregate both types of waste as different methods are adopted for biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes. Additionally, segregation allows us to identify waste materials that are recyclable, such as paper, plastic goods, metals, and glass.
Q. What is rainwater harvesting?
Answer : Rainwater harvesting is a method of water conservation, especially in arid regions. The concept of this technology is to store rainwater for later use that could have gone waste as runoff.
Q. What are Zings?
Answer : Zings are small channels of water devised by people in Ladakh from glaciers that flow down to the villages. This technique is used because Ladakh receives less than 50 mm of rainfall in a year, and melting glaciers are the only source of water.
Q. What role do mountains play in tribal beliefs?
Answer : Mountains play a significant role in tribal beliefs as they are often worshiped by tribals for the belief that they are close to the sky or heavens. Mountains are also considered as the abode of gods.
Q. What is the philosophy of the Bishnois regarding living beings?
Answer : The philosophy of the Bishnois regarding living beings is that every living being has the right to live and share the resources.
Q. How do Jarawas sustain themselves?
Answer : Jarawas sustain themselves by eating bananas as their main food, being skilled in hunting and fishing, but they do not kill deer, birds, and other animals, thus putting little pressure on the forests.
Q. What are windmills used for in rural areas?
Answer : Windmills are used to fetch groundwater in rural areas.
Q. What is the main food of Jarawas?
Answer : The main food of Jarawas is banana.
Q. What is the primary reason behind Amrita Devi’s sacrifice?
Answer : The primary reason behind Amrita Devi’s sacrifice was to protect the trees from being cut down by clinging to them to stop loggers.
Q. Explain the importance of environmental education.
Answer : Environmental education is important because it helps people understand environmental issues and challenges and develop a sense of concern for the environment. It enhances appreciation for the earth, promotes healthy behaviors, inspires future leaders, and improves the social environment. A deep understanding of the environment can help individuals minimize their personal environmental impact by reducing waste, conserving resources, and participating in environmental protection and restoration projects. Environmental education also empowers individuals to make responsible decisions by helping them understand how the environment works and how human actions can impact it. Additionally, it develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills, promotes sustainability, and enables students to apply sustainable practices in their local surroundings.
Q. Discuss the impact of human behavior on the environment.
Answer : Human behavior has significant impacts on the environment, contributing to environmental degradation. People often engage in activities that harm the environment but continue with such practices despite being aware of their consequences. Some individuals are aware of their role in environmental degradation but choose not to accept it, leading to hazardous outcomes if immediate steps are not taken to control further damage. Activities like deforestation, improper land use, overconsumption of energy, and improper waste disposal destroy ecosystems and cause soil erosion. For instance, clearing forests for agriculture or urban development leads to soil erosion and disrupts natural cycles. Overproduction and overconsumption of resources, especially fossil fuels, have polluted the environment and depleted energy reserves. Mining for fossil fuels has consumed vast amounts of money and caused environmental harm. Human interference with nature, as seen during droughts, has led to severe ecological imbalances. Therefore, human behavior plays a crucial role in both degrading and conserving the environment.
Q. Describe the concept of community-based conservation?
Answer : The concept of community-based conservation was introduced by the World National Parks Congress in 1982. It is a form of conservation that involves local communities in the process, ensuring their interests are considered while conserving biodiversity and managing natural resources. Community-based conservation recognizes the connection between nature and culture, unlike older methods where local people were often displaced for conservation projects.
Q. What are the objectives of community-based conservation?
Answer : The objectives of community-based conservation are:
(i) Conserving biodiversity;
(ii) Managing natural resources;
(iii) Meeting social needs such as maintaining local culture, increasing opportunities for income generation, and improving health and well-being;
(iv) Lowering management costs and achieving sustainable outcomes.
Q. Write about the traditional water conservation techniques in Rajasthan.
Answer : Traditional water conservation techniques in Rajasthan include Johads and tankas, which are specifically used in the arid areas of Rajasthan and Gujarat. Johads are structures designed to conserve water, while tankas are also a method of water storage. Additionally, Kunds and tankas are mentioned as traditional rainwater harvesting techniques in Gujarat and Rajasthan.
Q. Explain the indigenous agricultural practices followed by local communities.
Answer : Indigenous agricultural practices followed by local communities include:
(i) Keeping blank periods between crops.
(ii) Use of biological agents for pest control.
(iii) Use of natural manure and green manure.
(iv) Growing crops on small farms.
(v) Crop rotation and mixed cropping.
(vi) Strip cropping along the hill slopes.
(vii) Use of biological fertilizers, such as blue-green algae, in fields.
Q. Discuss the role of ponds in maintaining local ecosystems.
Answer : The functions of ponds in maintaining local ecosystems are: (i) Ponds help in the proper operation of water cycles on a local level. (ii) Ponds control the local micro-climate and keep the air cool. (iii) They provide water for domestic use and irrigation. (iv) Ponds serve as habitats for vast varieties of organisms, birds, and fish. (v) They help in the operation of the local food chain. (vi) Ponds recharge the underground water table.
Q. What are the functions of wetlands in water conservation?
Answer : The functions of wetlands in water conservation are:
(i) Wetlands ensure a stabilized groundwater supply by holding rainwater and slowly discharging it.
(ii) Properly maintained wetlands act as flood control reservoirs.
(iii) Restoring natural vegetation in wetlands filters water and increases the storage capacity of water reservoirs.
(iv) Protecting and restoring wetlands is another crucial type of water conservation.
Q. Describe the methods of soil conservation and their benefits.
Answer : The methods of soil conservation and their benefits are:
(i) Strip cropping is a method in which alternate strips of crop and uncultivated land minimize erosion and runoff.
(ii) Contour farming is another method in which crops are planted along the contours of a slope to minimize soil erosion and runoff.
(iii) Terracing is another method to save soil from erosion.
Soil is essential for the growth of plants, and all agriculture depends upon soil. It takes thousands of years for soil to form. Proper soil conservation techniques help protect the ecosystem by preventing soil erosion, ensuring agricultural productivity, and maintaining ecological balance.
Q. Discuss the modern conservation practices adopted to protect flora and fauna.
Answer : Modern conservation practices adopted to protect flora and fauna include:
- Establishment of National Parks, Sanctuaries, and Biosphere Reserves: The government of India has established many National Parks, Sanctuaries, and Biosphere Reserves to conserve flora and fauna.
- Water Conservation: This involves reducing the waste of water through effective watershed management, restoring natural vegetation, protecting and restoring wetlands, and adopting rainwater harvesting techniques.
- Soil Conservation: Techniques such as strip cropping, contour farming, and terracing are used to prevent soil erosion and protect ecosystems.
- Energy Conservation: Alternative sources of energy like hydropower, solar power, wind energy, tidal energy, and geothermal energy are tapped to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and conserve energy resources.
- Safe Handling of Waste: Segregating garbage into biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste helps in proper waste disposal and ecosystem conservation.
Q. Explain how energy conservation can be achieved through alternative energy sources.
Answer : Energy conservation can be achieved through alternative energy sources by tapping into renewable sources of energy such as hydropower, solar power, wind energy, tidal energy, and geothermal energy. These sources have been underutilized but hold significant potential for energy production. New technologies that utilize these renewable sources should be explored to reduce the consumption of fossil fuels, which are rapidly depleting and polluting the environment. Alternative sources of energy help conserve energy resources by reducing reliance on non-renewable sources like petroleum, coal, and natural gas.
Q. Describe the safe handling of waste and its importance in ecosystem conservation.
Answer : Safe handling of waste involves segregating garbage into biodegradable and non-biodegradable categories, which is an important step towards ecosystem conservation. Biodegradable waste includes fruit and vegetable peels, leaves, grass, and wood, while non-biodegradable waste includes plastic, metals, and pesticides. Different methods are adopted for managing biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes, making it crucial to segregate both types properly. Waste segregation also helps identify recyclable materials such as paper, plastic goods, metals, and glass. Proper handling of waste ensures effective waste disposal and reduces environmental pollution, thereby playing a vital role in conserving the ecosystem.
Q. Discuss the features of the Bishnoi sect and their contribution to conservation.
Answer : The Bishnoi sect is a Vaishnav sect living at the fringe of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan. They are famous naturalists who conserve flora and fauna to the extent of sacrificing their lives. Protecting the environment is a part of their sacred traditions. They believe in the philosophy that every living being has the right to live and share the resources. In the fifteenth century, a resident of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, Jambhoji, realized that the drought was the result of man’s interference with nature. He turned into a ‘sanyasi’ and came to be known as Swami Jambeshwar Maharaj, marking the beginning of the Bishnoi sect. He laid down 29 tenets for his followers, which include a ban on killing animals, a ban on felling trees (especially the khejri tree), and using materials other than wood for cremations. Bishnois do not allow hunters and poachers. Sacrifices made by Amrita Devi and many others are heart-rending. Amrita Devi clung to a tree to stop loggers. The heartland of the Bishnois near Jodhpur is greener compared to other areas. Blackbuck and chinkara are main animals in this region, and they are not afraid of humans. Such love for the environment makes Bishnois different from other sects in India. Their lifestyle is environmentally friendly.
Q. Write about the lifestyle of the forest dwellers of the Andaman Islands.
Answer : The forest dwellers of the Andaman Islands are primitive and represent the earliest inhabitants of India. They live in peace with nature. Banana is the main food of the Jarawas. They are skilled in hunting and fishing but do not kill deer, birds, and other animals. They put little pressure on the forests and hardly indulge in felling trees. They attach great importance to trees, and every individual marks one tree as their own.
Q. Explain the significance of sacred groves in biodiversity conservation.
Answer : Sacred groves are features of mythological landscapes, specifically forests, and hold significant importance in biodiversity conservation. Tribals worship many trees, birds, and animals, and mountains are often worshipped as they are believed to be close to the sky or heavens and are considered the abode of gods. Tribals do not prefer to cut the whole tree but only the branches, which regrow after some time. This practice meets their requirements while also protecting the environment. Sacred groves, therefore, play a crucial role in conserving biodiversity by preserving trees and wildlife and maintaining ecological balance through traditional practices.
Q. Discuss the role of National Parks and Sanctuaries in conserving ecosystems.
Answer : The role of National Parks and Sanctuaries in conserving ecosystems is significant. The government of India has established many National Parks, Sanctuaries, and Biosphere Reserves to conserve flora and fauna. These protected areas help in safeguarding the natural habitat of various species, ensuring the survival of biodiversity. Development of National Parks and Sanctuaries has proved fruitful in protecting forests, checking soil erosion, and preventing desertification. They also contribute to maintaining ecological balance and conserving ecosystems for future generations.
Q. What measures should be taken for proper land use planning?
Answer : Proper Landuse Planning should incorporate the following steps: (i) Classification of landuse. (ii) Survey of land-use on a national level. (iii) Review of rules and regulations made so far regarding landuse. (iv) Preparation of management plans for the amelioration of land. (v) Preparation of proper landuse data through remote sensing Technology.
Q. Describe the challenges faced by urban areas in land use management.
Answer : In urban areas, the land is falling short as every year thousands of people migrate from villages to the cities. Slums, therefore, develop in every city, especially in developing countries. Improper use of land destroys the ecosystem, such as clearing forests for agriculture, which causes soil erosion. Proper landuse is required in cities where specified landuses safeguard the urban environment. Zoning or proper allocation of land to buildings, parks, roads, industries, etc., and building designs conserve the urban environment.
Q. Explain the relationship between deforestation and soil erosion.
Answer : Improper use of land, such as clearing forests for agriculture, destroys the ecosystem and causes soil erosion. Forests play a crucial role in checking soil erosion, and their removal leads to increased erosion and runoff.
Q. Discuss the importance of afforestation in protecting the environment.
Answer : Afforestation is important in protecting the environment as it helps replace deforestation. Maximum land should be under forest cover, which not only cleans the air but also checks soil erosion and provides numerous resources. Forests also prevent desertification and protect ecosystems.
Q. Describe the traditional irrigation techniques used in hilly areas.
Answer : Traditional irrigation techniques used in hilly areas include Kuhls, which are innovative irrigation methods specific to these regions. Similarly, Zings are another technique devised in Ladakh, where small channels of water are made from glaciers to flow down to villages.
Q. What are the impacts of improper land use on the ecosystem?
Answer : Improper land use destroys the ecosystem. For example, clearing forests for agriculture causes soil erosion. It also reduces forest cover, which is essential for cleaning the air, checking soil erosion, and providing numerous resources. Improper land use increases pressure on the land and disrupts ecological balance.
44. Describe the methods used for the conservation of ponds and their ecological importance.
Answer : The methods used for the conservation of ponds include the construction of ponds, which are structures dug into the ground in different sizes to store water. This practice has been an ancient tradition in India.
The ecological importance of ponds is as follows:
(i) Ponds help in the proper operation of water cycles on a local level.
(ii) They control the local micro-climate and keep the air cool.
(iii) Water from ponds is used for domestic purposes and irrigation.
(iv) Ponds serve as habitats for a vast variety of organisms, birds, and fish.
(v) They play a role in the operation of the local food chain.
(vi) Ponds recharge the underground water table.
Additional MCQs
1. Conservation of the ecosystem is necessary because our earth has ______.
A. Unused lands
B. Limited resources
C. Abundant water
D. Unstable climate
Answer: B. Limited resources
Q. Which immediate measure is needed to address environmental degradation?
A. Improving healthcare
B. Providing social benefits
C. Creating environmental awareness
D. Increasing transportation facilities
Answer: C. Creating environmental awareness
Q. Which section of society must be involved in protecting the environment?
A. Only the rich
B. Only the poor
C. Everyone
D. Only the youth
Answer: C. Everyone
Q. Environmental education helps individuals to _____.
A. Know more languages
B. Solve financial problems
C. Understand and address environmental issues
D. Stop industrial growth
Answer: C. Understand and address environmental issues
Q. Which key benefit does environmental awareness provide to students?
A. Higher grades in all subjects
B. Better athletic performance
C. Developing critical thinking skills
D. Fewer examinations in school
Answer: C. Developing critical thinking skills
Q. Community-based conservation was introduced by the World National Parks Congress in _____.
A. 1972
B. 1982
C. 1992
D. 2002
Answer: B. 1982
Q. Which statement is true about older conservation methods?
A. They focused mainly on modern technology
B. They considered local community interests first
C. They often displaced local people
D. They required no protests or dialogue
Answer: C. They often displaced local people
Q. The main aim of community-based conservation is to manage natural resources and _____.
A. Promote industrialisation
B. Provide cheaper fuel
C. Meet social needs
D. Encourage urban migration
Answer: C. Meet social needs
Q. What is a sacred grove?
A. A type of modern sanctuary
B. A mythological forest area
C. A newly planted orchard
D. A government-protected grassland
Answer: B. A mythological forest area
Q. Which is a common belief among many tribals regarding mountains?
A. Mountains cause droughts
B. Mountains have no spiritual significance
C. Mountains are the abode of gods
D. Mountains are sources of precious metals only
Answer: C. Mountains are the abode of gods
Q. Which practice do some tribals follow to meet their needs while preserving trees?
A. Cutting the entire forest at once
B. Only using tree branches
C. Burning trees for ash
D. Clearing farmland permanently
Answer: B. Only using tree branches
Q. Animal dung cakes are commonly used by local communities as _____.
A. Fertiliser
B. Medicine
C. Fuel
D. Building material
Answer: C. Fuel
Q. Water wheels in hilly areas are often used to _____.
A. Generate solar power
B. Grind grains
C. Purify water
D. Build terraces
Answer: B. Grind grains
Q. Windmills are mentioned as a tool to _____.
A. Power electric cars
B. Fetch groundwater
C. Produce fertiliser
D. Grow plants faster
Answer: B. Fetch groundwater
Q. The irrigation technique called ‘Kuhls’ is practised in _____.
A. Desert regions
B. Hilly areas
C. Coastal plains
D. Mangrove forests
Answer: B. Hilly areas
Q. ‘Johads’ and ‘tankas’ are water conservation methods used in _____.
A. Punjab
B. Himachal Pradesh
C. Rajasthan and Gujarat
D. Assam and Meghalaya
Answer: C. Rajasthan and Gujarat
Q. Which statement is true for Ladakh’s water source?
A. Ladakh receives abundant rainfall annually
B. Melting glaciers are its only water source
C. Underground springs are the main source
D. It uses large rivers for irrigation
Answer: B. Melting glaciers are its only water source
Q. Small channels of melting glacier water in Ladakh are known as _____.
A. Kuhls
B. Zings
C. Eri
D. Johads
Answer: B. Zings
Q. Bishnois are known for their practice of _____.
A. Hunting rare animals
B. Clearing forests for farmland
C. Strongly protecting flora and fauna
D. Mining for minerals
Answer: C. Strongly protecting flora and fauna
Q. Swami Jambeshwar Maharaj led to the formation of which sect?
A. Arya Samaj
B. Bishnois
C. Vaishnavites
D. Shaivites
Answer: B. Bishnois
Q. The Bishnois community strictly bans _____.
A. Using alternative fuels
B. Felling the khejri tree
C. Using dung as fuel
D. Travelling on foot
Answer: B. Felling the khejri tree
Q. Who sacrificed her life by clinging to a tree to stop loggers?
A. Phoolan Devi
B. Amrita Devi
C. Anandi Bai
D. Teejan Bai
Answer: B. Amrita Devi
Q. Which animals are especially protected by Bishnois?
A. Elephants and rhinos
B. Sheep and goats
C. Blackbuck and chinkara
D. Tigers and lions
Answer: C. Blackbuck and chinkara
Q. Which tribe in the Andaman Islands uses minimal pressure on forests?
A. Bishnois
B. Mundas
C. Gonds
D. Jarawas
Answer: D. Jarawas
Q. Jarawas do not kill _____.
A. Deer and birds
B. Fish and turtles
C. Bananas
D. Trees for firewood
Answer: A. Deer and birds
Q. Construction of ponds is an ancient practice in India mainly for _____.
A. Transport
B. Storing water
C. Building houses
D. Religious rituals only
Answer: B. Storing water
27. Which is NOT a function of ponds?
A. Storing water
B. Recharging groundwater
C. Generating electricity
D. Supporting organisms
Answer: C. Generating electricity
