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.
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