Class 10 Geography Chapter 2- Forest and Wildlife Resources Notes

 

Class 10 Geography

Chapter 2- Forest and Wildlife Resources

Notes

1. Understanding Biodiversity

Definition of Biodiversity: Biodiversity encompasses the richness and variety of organisms within a defined geographical area. It includes plants, animals, microorganisms, and the genetic diversity they harbor, as well as the ecosystems they constitute.

Significance of Biodiversity: Biodiversity is crucial for sustaining life on Earth as it directly influences the quality of essential resources such as air, water, and soil. Forests, as primary producers, are integral to ecological systems, supporting diverse flora and fauna that are essential for human survival. Additionally, forests harbor valuable resources like minerals, contributing to the needs of industrial-urban economies.

2. Role of Forests in Ecological Systems

Key Functions of Forests: Forests serve as primary producers, supporting various life forms dependent on them. They provide essential resources such as fruits, flowers, medicinal plants, and timber. Moreover, forests play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance by supporting diverse ecosystems.

3. Conservation Efforts in India

Importance of Conservation: Conservation efforts aim to preserve ecological diversity and essential life support systems, including water, air, and soil. Additionally, conservation initiatives focus on safeguarding genetic diversity to facilitate species growth and breeding, essential for maintaining ecosystem stability.

Conservation Measures: The Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972 was introduced to safeguard habitats and protect endangered species by imposing bans on hunting, providing legal protection to habitats, and regulating wildlife trade. Furthermore, the establishment of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, along with targeted conservation projects for endangered species like tigers and rhinoceroses, demonstrates India's commitment to wildlife preservation.

4. Project Tiger

Objectives of Project Tiger: Project Tiger, launched in 1973, aims to address threats faced by tiger populations, including poaching, habitat loss, and declining prey species. It focuses on preserving not only the endangered species but also their ecosystems, emphasizing the conservation of significant biotypes.

Tiger Reserves in India: India boasts several tiger reserves, including Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand, Sunderbans National Park in West Bengal, Bandhavgarh National Park in Madhya Pradesh, and others. These reserves play a crucial role in tiger conservation efforts.

5. Forest Classification in India

Types of Forests: India's forests are classified into reserved forests, protected forests, and unclassed forests. Reserved forests, covering over half of the total forest land, are considered the most valuable for conservation purposes. Protected forests, accounting for approximately one-third of the forest area, are shielded from further depletion. Unclassed forests include other forested areas managed by both government and private entities.

6. Distribution of Forests and Wildlife Resources

Geographical Distribution: Different states in India exhibit varying proportions of reserved, protected, and unclassed forests. States like Jammu and Kashmir, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala possess substantial reserved forest areas, while others, like Bihar and Rajasthan, have significant portions under protected forests. Northeastern states and parts of Gujarat predominantly consist of unclassed forests managed by local communities.

7. Community Involvement in Conservation

Community Initiatives: Local communities play a significant role in forest and wildlife conservation efforts. Initiatives such as the Chipko movement in the Himalayas demonstrate grassroots resistance to deforestation, emphasizing the importance of community afforestation and indigenous species conservation. Additionally, joint forest management programs engage local communities in the protection and restoration of degraded forests.

8. Joint Forest Management (JFM)

Objective and Implementation: JFM programs aim to involve local communities in managing degraded forest lands. Formed in 1988 in Odisha, these programs establish local institutions responsible for protection activities on forest lands managed by the forest department. In return, community members receive benefits like non-timber forest produce and a share in harvested timber.

9. Sacred Groves

Traditional Conservation Practices: Sacred groves, revered by tribal communities, represent a form of nature worship and conservation. These untouched forest patches are considered sacred and protected from human interference. Certain societies also revere specific trees and natural features, preserving them as part of their cultural and religious practices. Sacred groves contribute to biodiversity conservation and cultural heritage preservation.