Que. Identify and discuss the factors responsible for diversity of natural vegetation in India. Assess the significance of wildlife sanctuaries in rain-forest regions of India.
भारत में प्राकृतिक वनस्पति की विविधता के लिए उत्तरदायी कारकों को पहचानिए और उनकी विवेचना कीजिए। भारत के वर्षा-वन क्षेत्रों में वन्यजीव अभयारण्यों के महत्त्व का आकलन कीजिए।
Structure of the Answer
(i) Introduction: Briefly introduce India’s natural vegetation diversity, stating key factors responsible for it and mentioning the role of wildlife sanctuaries in rain-forest regions.
(ii) Main Body: Explain the major factors contributing to natural vegetation diversity in India, then assess the significance of wildlife sanctuaries in preserving rain-forest biodiversity.
(iii) Conclusion: Summarize the importance of preserving India’s diverse vegetation and emphasize the critical role of sanctuaries in rain-forest regions for wildlife conservation.
Introduction
India’s “natural vegetation” exhibits vast diversity due to variations in “climate,” “topography,” “soil types,” and “altitude.” Wildlife sanctuaries in rain-forest regions safeguard biodiversity, ensuring the conservation of endangered species and ecological balance.
Factors Responsible for the Diversity of Natural Vegetation in India
(i) Climatic Variations: India’s wide range of “climatic zones,” from tropical in the south to alpine in the north, nurtures different types of vegetation, including tropical rainforests, deserts, and grasslands.
(ii) Topographical Features: The country’s varied “topography,” from plains to mountains, influences vegetation. The Western Ghats and Himalayan ranges, for instance, house distinct plant species due to altitude and slope variations.
(iii) Soil Types: India’s rich “soil diversity,” including alluvial, red, black, and desert soils, directly impacts the distribution of vegetation, supporting everything from fertile forests to dry scrubs.
(iv) Monsoonal Impact: The Indian subcontinent’s “monsoon-driven” climate significantly affects vegetation. Regions with heavy rainfall host lush forests, while arid zones foster sparse, xerophytic vegetation.
(v) Altitude and Latitude: India’s altitudinal and latitudinal variations create different “microclimates,” allowing the coexistence of tropical rainforests in the lowlands and alpine vegetation in high-altitude areas.
Significance of Wildlife Sanctuaries in Rain-Forest Regions
(i) Preserving Biodiversity Hotspots: Sanctuaries in rain-forest regions like the “Western Ghats” and “Northeast India” protect biodiversity hotspots, which are home to several endangered species, including unique flora and fauna.
(ii) Climate Change Mitigation: Rain-forest sanctuaries act as “carbon sinks,” absorbing vast amounts of CO2, helping mitigate climate change and contributing to global carbon sequestration efforts.
(iii) Protection of Endangered Species: Sanctuaries safeguard “threatened species” such as the lion-tailed macaque and Malabar civet, preventing habitat destruction and supporting species recovery in heavily forested areas.
(iv) Water Conservation: Rainforests play a vital role in the “hydrological cycle.” Sanctuaries in these regions help maintain rainfall patterns, support rivers, and ensure long-term water availability for humans and wildlife.
(v) Research and Ecotourism: Sanctuaries in rain-forest regions provide opportunities for “scientific research” and “ecotourism,” promoting environmental awareness and generating revenue for further conservation initiatives.
Conclusion
India’s “diverse natural vegetation” is shaped by multiple factors like climate, topography, and soils. Wildlife sanctuaries in rain-forest regions play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity, climate stability, and ecosystems, ensuring sustainable development.
