CBSE Class 10 Social Science Forest and Wildlife Resources NCERT Solutions

The correct option is (c). While agricultural expansion, large-scale developmental projects, and rapid industrialisation/urbanisation are significant drivers of habitat loss and species decline, grazing and fuel wood collection, when managed unsustainably, also contribute to the depletion of flora and fauna. However, the question asks for a statement that is NOT a valid reason, implying a reason that is generally considered less impactful or even beneficial in some contexts. In the context of major drivers of depletion, unsustainable grazing and fuel wood collection are indeed contributing factors, but the phrasing of the question might imply looking for an option that is fundamentally different. Re-evaluating the options, options (a), (b), and (d) are widely accepted as major causes of habitat destruction and biodiversity loss. Option (c), grazing and fuel wood collection, while contributing, can sometimes be managed sustainably. However, based on typical NCERT curriculum emphasis, all listed options contribute to depletion. If forced to choose one that is 'not a valid reason' in the sense of being a primary, large-scale driver compared to others, it's nuanced. Typically, the question intends to identify factors that *do* cause depletion. Let's assume the source's intended answer (c) implies that while it contributes, it might be considered less impactful than the others or that the question is poorly phrased. A more accurate interpretation based on common understanding is that all listed factors contribute to depletion. However, adhering strictly to the provided answer, we select (c) as the intended 'least valid' or perhaps a factor that can be managed. A better phrasing would be 'Which of these is the LEAST significant reason' or 'Which of these is NOT a primary reason'. Given the provided answer is (c), we proceed with that understanding, acknowledging the ambiguity. The primary reasons for depletion are habitat destruction and fragmentation, over-exploitation, environmental pollution, and invasive species. Options a, b, and d directly relate to habitat destruction and fragmentation on a large scale. Option c, grazing and fuel wood collection, relates more to over-exploitation and habitat degradation. All are valid reasons. The provided answer suggests (c) is the intended answer, possibly because it can be managed sustainably in some cases, unlike large-scale projects or rapid urbanisation."

The correct option is (d) Demarcation of Wildlife sanctuaries. Joint Forest Management (JFM) is a program that involves local communities in managing and protecting forests. The Chipko Movement was a grassroots environmental movement where local communities, particularly women, hugged trees to prevent them from being felled. The Beej Bachao Andolan is a movement focused on conserving traditional seeds and agricultural practices, driven by farmers and local communities. In contrast, the demarcation of wildlife sanctuaries is primarily a governmental administrative and legal process, often initiated and enforced by state authorities, which may not directly involve the active participation of local communities in its planning or execution, although their cooperation might be sought later.

Here is the correct matching of the animals/plants with their category of existence:

• 1. Black buck is categorized as (c) Endangered. Black bucks are facing threats and are at high risk of extinction in the wild.
• 2. Asiatic elephant is categorized as (d) Vulnerable. Vulnerable species are those facing a high risk of extinction in the wild in the medium-term future.
• 3. Andaman wild pig is categorized as (e) Endemic. Endemic species are unique to a particular geographical area and are found nowhere else. The Andaman wild pig is specific to the Andaman Islands.
• 4. Himalayan brown bear is categorized as (b) Rare. Rare species are those with small populations that are at risk.
• 5. Pink head duck is categorized as (a) Extinct. Extinct species are those that no longer exist on Earth.

Therefore, the complete match is: 1 - (c), 2 - (d), 3 - (e), 4 - (b), 5 - (a).

Let's clarify and match the forest types with their descriptions:

• 1. Reserved forests: These are regarded as the most valuable as far as the conservation of forest and wildlife resources is concerned. They are protected from any further depletion. The government has control over these forests.
• 2. Protected forests: According to the Indian Forest Act, 1927, these forests are regarded as most valuable as far as the conservation of forest and wildlife resources is concerned. Forest lands are protected from any further depletion by the Forest Department.
• 3. Unclassed forests: These are forests which are either de-reserved or are de-classified into 'protected' or 'reserved' forests. These forests are managed by both government and private individuals and communities.

Based on standard definitions and the provided options, the correct matching is:

• 1 - (b) (Reserved forests are most valuable for conservation)
• 2 - (c) (Protected forests are protected from further depletion)
• 3 - (a) (Unclassed forests are managed by government and private individuals/communities)

Note: There seems to be a slight overlap or rephrasing in the source text for 'Protected forests'. The standard definition is that protected forests are those in which the government has control, and they are protected from further depletion, but some regulated activities might be allowed. Reserved forests are typically considered the most restricted. The provided answer in the source (1-(b), 2-(c), 3-(a)) aligns with this understanding, where (b) describes the value of reserved forests, (c) describes the protection of protected forests, and (a) describes the management of unclassed forests.

Biodiversity refers to the vast variety of different species of plants, animals, and microorganisms found within a particular geographical area. It is critically important for human lives because our survival is intricately linked to the health and functioning of ecosystems. We depend on biodiversity for essential resources like food, medicine, and clean air and water, and it plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and providing ecosystem services.

Human activities have profoundly impacted the depletion of flora and fauna primarily through habitat destruction and degradation. Large-scale deforestation for agriculture, urbanisation, and developmental projects like mining and dam construction have destroyed natural habitats. Over-exploitation of resources, pollution, and the introduction of invasive species have further exacerbated the decline of plant and animal populations, leading to endangerment and extinction.