Topic: changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.
Q2. Assess the vulnerability of Himalayan forests to recurring forest fires. Discuss the implications of such fires for biodiversity and ecosystem stability. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: NIE
Why the question
Recurring forest fires in Himalayan states such as Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh have raised concerns about the fragility of mountain ecosystems. Recent discussions in parliamentary committees and forest management reports highlight the growing ecological risks posed by these fires.
Key Demand of the question
The question requires assessing the geographical and ecological factors that make Himalayan forests vulnerable to recurring fires. It also demands discussing the impacts of such fires on biodiversity and overall ecosystem stability.
Structure of the Answer
Introduction
Briefly highlight the fragile ecological nature of Himalayan forests and their increasing exposure to forest fires due to climatic and ecological conditions.
Body
- Vulnerability of Himalayan forests to recurring fires: Indicate how climatic conditions, vegetation characteristics and human activities make these forests susceptible to frequent fires.
- Implications for biodiversity and ecosystem stability: Explain how forest fires lead to habitat destruction, soil degradation and disruption of ecological processes in Himalayan ecosystems.
Conclusion
Emphasise the need for sustainable mountain forest management, community participation and improved fire monitoring systems to protect Himalayan ecosystems.
