Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Biodiversity, short for biological diversity, encompasses the variety of life at all levels of biological organization, from genes to ecosystems. It is crucial for ecosystem services, human well-being, and economic prosperity. However, biodiversity is facing unprecedented threats due to habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and overexploitation. *In situ* conservation, meaning ‘on-site’ conservation, is a key strategy for preserving biodiversity by protecting species within their natural habitats. This approach recognizes the ecological interconnectedness of species and the importance of maintaining functioning ecosystems. The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), 1992, emphasizes *in situ* conservation as a primary goal.
Understanding Biodiversity
Biodiversity isn't merely the number of species; it includes genetic diversity within species, species diversity, and ecosystem diversity. It provides essential ecosystem services like pollination, climate regulation, water purification, and nutrient cycling. Loss of biodiversity weakens ecosystem resilience and can have cascading effects on human societies.
Means of In Situ Conservation
1. Protected Area Network
Establishing protected areas is the most widely used *in situ* conservation strategy. These areas safeguard species and their habitats from human interference. They are categorized by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) into six categories:
- Category I: Strict Nature Reserves: Managed for scientific research and wilderness protection. (e.g., core zones of Biosphere Reserves)
- Category II: National Parks: Large areas managed for ecosystem conservation and recreation. (e.g., Kaziranga National Park, Assam – famous for one-horned rhinoceros)
- Category III: Natural Monuments: Protecting specific natural features. (e.g., Living root bridges of Meghalaya)
- Category IV: Habitat/Species Management Areas: Focused on specific species or habitats.
- Category V: Protected Landscapes/Seascapes: Areas managed for sustainable use alongside conservation.
- Category VI: Protected Areas with Sustainable Use: Areas where conservation and sustainable resource use are integrated.
India has a well-developed network of protected areas, including 106 National Parks, 566 Wildlife Sanctuaries, and several Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves (as of 2023). The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, provides the legal framework for establishing and managing these areas.
2. Biosphere Reserves
Biosphere Reserves are internationally recognized areas designated by UNESCO under the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme. They aim to reconcile biodiversity conservation with sustainable human development. Each Biosphere Reserve has three zones:
- Core Zone: Strictly protected for biodiversity conservation.
- Buffer Zone: Surrounds the core zone and allows for sustainable activities like research and education.
- Transition Zone: The outermost zone where human settlements and economic activities are permitted, but with a focus on sustainability.
India has 18 Biosphere Reserves, including the Nilgiri, Sundarbans, and Gulf of Mannar.
3. Community Conservation Areas
Recognizing the role of local communities in conservation, several initiatives promote community-based conservation. These include:
- Conservation Reserves: Areas declared by state governments to protect locally important plants and animal habitats.
- Community Reserves: Areas owned or controlled by local communities and managed for conservation.
- Sacred Groves: Patches of forest revered by local communities and protected based on traditional beliefs. (e.g., Khasi hills of Meghalaya)
The Biological Diversity Act, 2002, recognizes the rights of local communities over biological resources and promotes their participation in conservation.
4. Sacred Landscapes and Species
Many cultures have traditional practices of protecting specific landscapes or species based on religious or cultural beliefs. These ‘sacred’ areas or species often harbor significant biodiversity. Protecting these traditional practices can be an effective conservation strategy. For example, certain trees like Peepal are considered sacred in Hinduism and are often protected, providing habitat for various species.
5. Corridors and Landscape-Level Conservation
Recognizing that protected areas are often isolated, establishing ecological corridors connecting them is crucial for allowing species movement and maintaining genetic diversity. Landscape-level conservation focuses on managing entire ecosystems, considering the interactions between different habitats and species. Project Tiger, initiated in 1973, exemplifies landscape-level conservation by focusing on protecting tiger habitats and connecting fragmented populations.
| Conservation Method | Key Features | Example |
|---|---|---|
| National Parks | Strict protection, limited human access | Jim Corbett National Park |
| Biosphere Reserves | Zoning for conservation and sustainable development | Sunderban Biosphere Reserve |
| Community Reserves | Local community ownership and management | Pakke Tiger Reserve Community Reserve, Arunachal Pradesh |
Conclusion
In conclusion, *in situ* conservation is paramount for safeguarding biodiversity by protecting species within their natural environments. A multi-faceted approach, encompassing protected areas, biosphere reserves, community conservation, and landscape-level planning, is essential. Strengthening legal frameworks, promoting community participation, and addressing the underlying drivers of biodiversity loss are crucial for ensuring the long-term success of *in situ* conservation efforts. Integrating conservation with sustainable development remains a key challenge for the future.
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.