Forest and Wildlife Resources in India

Forest and Wildlife Resources in India

Forest and Wildlife Resources in India explores the rich biodiversity of India, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts for flora and fauna. The document discusses various species, including endangered and endemic plants and animals, and the impact of human activities on their habitats. It covers the classification of forests, conservation strategies like Project Tiger, and the role of local communities in protecting natural resources. This resource is essential for students and environmentalists interested in wildlife conservation and ecological studies in India.

Key Points

  • Explores India's biodiversity, including 81,000 fauna and 47,000 flora species.
  • Discusses the impact of deforestation and human activities on wildlife habitats.
  • Covers conservation efforts such as the Wildlife Protection Act and Project Tiger.
  • Analyzes the classification of forests into reserved, protected, and unclassed categories.
  • Highlights the role of local communities in forest conservation initiatives.
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CLASS 10 NOTES
CLASS 10 NOTES
PRASHANT KIRAD
GEOGRAPHY
Forest and
Forest and
Wildlife
Wildlife
Resouces
Resouces
Forest and wildlife resources
Introduction:
Our earth is home for millions of living beings, starting from
microorganisms and bacteria, lichens to banyan trees,
elephants and blue whales.
Biodiversity: Species diverse in form and function but closely
integrated in a system through multiple networks of
interdependencies.
Flora and Fauna in India
India is one of the world’s richest countries in terms of
its vast array of biological diversity.
It has nearly 8% of the total number of species in the
world (estimated to be 1.6 million)
81,000 species of fauna
47,000 species of flora (15,000 flowering species are
endemic to India)
At least 10% of India’s recorded wild flora and 20% of its
mammals are on threatened list.
Cheetah, pink headed duck, mountain quail, forest spotted
owlet and plants like Madhuca insignis (wild Mahua,
Hubbardia (a species of grass).
Vanishing forest:
Total forest cover = 24.01% (78.92 million hectare)
Dense forest = 12.24%
Open forest = 8.99%
Mangroves = 0.14%
E.M.A
exam mei ayega
PRASHANT KIRAD
EXPHUB 9 & 10
Rare
species
Normal
species
Extinct
species
IUCN’s Classification:
IUCN - International Union for Conservation of Nature and
Natural Resource.
Total forest cover = 24.01% (78.92 million hectare)
Classification
Vulnerable
species
Endangered
species
Endemic
species
According to state of forest report, area increased by =
10,098 sq/km since 1997
Limitation: It does not differentiate between natural forests
and Plantations.
(i) Normal species
Population level are normal for their survival.
Ex- Cattle, Sal, Pine
(ii) Endangered species
In danger of Extinction
Survival may not be possible if threats to their population
continuous to operates.
Ex - Black buck, lion tailed Macaque
(iii) Vulnerable species
Decline in the population, from where they are likely to
move into the endangered category, if the threat
continuous to operate.
Ex - Blue sheep, Asiatic elephant, Gangetic dolphin
PRASHANT KIRAD
EXPHUB 9 & 10
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End of Document
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FAQs of Forest and Wildlife Resources in India

What are the main threats to wildlife in India?
The main threats to wildlife in India include habitat destruction due to urbanization, agricultural expansion, and industrial activities. Deforestation has led to a significant loss of natural habitats, affecting both flora and fauna. Additionally, poaching and illegal wildlife trade pose serious risks to endangered species. The document highlights specific examples, such as the decline of the Asiatic cheetah and the impact of mining on protected areas like the Buxa Tiger Reserve.
What is Project Tiger and its significance?
Project Tiger is a major conservation initiative launched in 1973 to protect the dwindling population of tigers in India. The project aims to create a network of tiger reserves across the country, ensuring the preservation of their habitats and prey species. Initially successful, the project saw an increase in tiger populations, but ongoing challenges such as poaching and habitat loss continue to threaten their survival. The document details the successes and setbacks of Project Tiger, emphasizing its importance in wildlife conservation.
How are forests classified in India?
Forests in India are classified into three main categories: reserved forests, protected forests, and unclassed forests. Reserved forests are government-owned and strictly protected from human activities, while protected forests allow some local resource use. Unclassed forests are managed by both private communities and the government, permitting various human activities. This classification helps in the management and conservation of forest resources, as detailed in the document.
What role do local communities play in forest conservation?
Local communities play a crucial role in forest conservation through initiatives like Joint Forest Management (JFM). JFM involves local populations in the protection and restoration of degraded forests, allowing them to benefit from non-timber forest products. The document highlights successful community-led conservation efforts, such as the Chipko Movement and the establishment of sacred groves, which emphasize the cultural and ecological significance of forests.

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