Class 10 - Chapter 2: Forest and Wildlife Resources

1. Multiple Choice Questions

(i) Which of the following conservation strategies do not directly involve community participation?

Answer: (d) Demarcation of Wildlife Sanctuaries

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2. Match the Following

Category	Matched With
Reserved Forests	Forests regarded as most valuable as far as the conservation of forest and wildlife resources is concerned.
Protected Forests	Forest lands are protected from any further depletion.
Unclassed Forests	Other forests and wastelands belonging to both government and private individuals and communities.

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3. Answer the Following Questions in About 30 Words

(i) What is biodiversity? Why is biodiversity important for human lives?

Answer:
Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms including plants, animals and microorganisms found on Earth. It is important because it maintains ecological balance and provides food, medicines, fuel, fibre and other resources essential for human survival.

(ii) How have human activities affected the depletion of flora and fauna? Explain.

Answer:
Human activities such as deforestation, mining, industrialisation, urbanisation, overgrazing and hunting have led to the depletion of flora and fauna. Destruction of natural habitats has threatened many species with extinction and disturbed ecological balance.

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4. Answer the Following Questions in About 120 Words

(i) Describe how communities have conserved and protected forests and wildlife in India.

Answer:
Local communities have played a significant role in conserving forests and wildlife in India. The Chipko Movement in Uttarakhand is a famous example where villagers protected trees by hugging them and preventing their cutting. In Rajasthan, the Bishnoi community has protected wildlife and forests for centuries. Many tribal communities preserve sacred groves where cutting trees and hunting animals are prohibited. Joint Forest Management (JFM) programmes have encouraged local people to participate in forest protection and management. Villagers protect forests from illegal felling, overgrazing and forest fires in return for a share in forest products. These community-based efforts have greatly helped in conserving biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance.

(ii) Write a note on good practices towards conserving forest and wildlife.

Answer:
Several good practices have been adopted for conserving forests and wildlife in India. Afforestation and reforestation programmes help increase forest cover. Protection of wildlife through national parks, wildlife sanctuaries and biosphere reserves has helped preserve endangered species. Community movements such as the Chipko Movement and Beej Bachao Andolan have created awareness about conservation. Joint Forest Management programmes encourage people's participation in protecting forests. The conservation of sacred groves by local communities also helps preserve biodiversity. Strict laws against poaching, illegal logging and habitat destruction further support conservation efforts. These practices contribute to sustainable development and the protection of natural resources for future generations.