Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Eco-development, as defined by the Brundtland Commission (1987), integrates ecological and economic considerations in development planning to ensure long-term sustainability. Changes in land use, encompassing alterations in how land is utilized for various purposes, are pivotal in shaping ecological outcomes. India, with its diverse landscapes and rapidly changing socio-economic conditions, presents a complex scenario where strategic land use modifications can either degrade or enhance ecological health. Recent initiatives like the National Afforestation Programme and the focus on sustainable agriculture demonstrate a growing awareness of this link, but a comprehensive, integrated approach is crucial for maximizing eco-development benefits across the country.
Land Use Changes and Eco-Development at Different Levels
Land use changes significantly impact ecosystems. The nature of these impacts, and the potential for eco-development, varies depending on the scale – local, regional, and national.
1. Local Level (Village/Panchayat)
- Afforestation & Agroforestry: Converting degraded lands into forests or integrating trees into agricultural systems enhances biodiversity, improves soil health, and provides carbon sequestration. The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) can be leveraged for large-scale afforestation projects.
- Waterbody Restoration: Reviving ponds, tanks, and wetlands improves local water availability, supports aquatic ecosystems, and recharges groundwater.
- Organic Farming: Reducing chemical fertilizer and pesticide use minimizes pollution, promotes soil biodiversity, and enhances ecosystem resilience. Sikkim’s transition to a fully organic state (2016) is a prime example.
2. Regional Level (District/State)
- Watershed Management: Implementing integrated watershed development programs (e.g., Hariyali, Neeranchal) improves water conservation, reduces soil erosion, and enhances agricultural productivity.
- Eco-tourism: Promoting responsible tourism in ecologically sensitive areas generates revenue for local communities while incentivizing conservation. Examples include eco-tourism initiatives in the Western Ghats and the Sundarbans.
- Strategic Urban Planning: Implementing green building codes, creating urban forests, and developing efficient public transportation systems in urban areas can mitigate environmental impacts and improve quality of life.
- Coastal Zone Management: Mangrove restoration and protection along coastal areas act as natural buffers against storms and erosion, while also providing breeding grounds for marine life.
3. National Level
- Forest Conservation & Expansion: Strengthening forest protection laws, implementing the Forest Conservation Act, 1980, and expanding forest cover through initiatives like the National Mission for a Green India are crucial for carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation. According to the Forest Survey of India (2021), India’s forest cover is 24.62% of the geographical area.
- Land Use Zoning & Regulation: Developing a national land use policy that prioritizes ecological considerations and regulates land conversion can prevent unsustainable development.
- Promoting Sustainable Agriculture: Encouraging crop diversification, water-efficient irrigation techniques (e.g., micro-irrigation), and integrated nutrient management practices at a national scale can enhance agricultural sustainability.
- Restoration of Degraded Ecosystems: Large-scale ecosystem restoration projects, such as those targeting the Aravalli range or the Himalayan foothills, can significantly improve ecological health.
Challenges: Land use changes often face challenges such as land ownership issues, conflicting interests between development and conservation, lack of effective enforcement of regulations, and inadequate community participation. Addressing these challenges requires a participatory and integrated approach to land use planning.
| Level | Land Use Change | Eco-Development Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Local | Afforestation | Improved soil health, carbon sequestration, biodiversity |
| Regional | Watershed Management | Water conservation, reduced erosion, increased productivity |
| National | Forest Conservation | Carbon sink, biodiversity hotspot, climate regulation |
Conclusion
Effective eco-development through land use changes necessitates a holistic and integrated approach, considering the interconnectedness of ecological, economic, and social factors. Prioritizing sustainable land management practices, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and fostering community participation are essential for achieving long-term ecological sustainability. Investing in research and development of climate-resilient land use strategies will be crucial for adapting to the challenges of climate change and ensuring a greener future for India. A shift towards a landscape approach, recognizing the value of all land uses and their interactions, is vital for maximizing eco-development benefits.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.