Topic: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment.
6. It is important to recognize the value of wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in preserving biodiversity, supporting ecosystem services, and maintaining the ecological balance. Protecting these areas from habitat loss and fragmentation is crucial for the long-term conservation of wildlife and the overall health of our planet. Examine. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Easy
Reference: Insights on India
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 3.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the threats faced by the wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in India.
Directive word:
Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must investigate the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by mentioning that The Union Government has established a country-wide protected area network for protection of these species and their habitats of threatened flora and fauna under Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
Body:
First, write about the threats to wildlife sanctuaries and national parks from habitat loss. Substantiate with examples. For e.g. Clearance of partis of Valley of flowers for Chardham highway project.
Next, about the other factors affecting wildlife sanctuaries and national parks – Road/Railway lines inside protected areas, Uncontrolled passage of heavy vehicles during night-time, Man-animal conflicts, Threat from invasive species
Next, Discuss the potential solutions to issues such as – involving local communities in decision making, building infrastructure, anti-poaching camps etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward.
