Ethics Theory, TLP-UPSC Mains Answer Writing
Q. 5. Identify and discuss the factors responsible for diversity of natural vegetation in India. Evaluate the role of National Parks in conserving forest ecosystems and biodiversity, especially in rain-fed regions. (250 words, 15 marks)
Introduction
India hosts nearly 8% of the world’s biodiversity, encompassing over 47,000 plant species and 90,000 animal species. This ecological richness stems from the country’s diverse geography, climate, and soil—leading to a wide array of natural vegetation types.
Body
Factors Responsible for Natural Vegetation Diversity in India
- Climatic Variation: Regional differences in rainfall, temperature, and humidity significantly influence vegetation patterns. Example: Tropical evergreen forests in high rainfall areas of the Western Ghats versus thorn forests in Rajasthan.
- Physiography and Altitude: Mountains, plateaus, and plains support varied plant species due to changes in elevation and slope. Example: Alpine vegetation in Himalayas versus deciduous forests in the Deccan plateau.
- Soil Types: Fertile alluvial soils, black cotton soils, laterites, and red soils support distinct vegetative growth. Example: Sal forests in alluvial tracts of Uttar Pradesh; teak in black soil regions of Madhya Pradesh.
- Latitude and Sunlight: Variation in solar radiation due to latitudinal spread affects photosynthesis and growing seasons. Example: Dense tropical forests near the equator taper into temperate flora in northern hill states.
- Biotic Interference and Human Activities: Agriculture, grazing, deforestation, and urbanization influence vegetative cover.Example: Shivalik forests degraded due to encroachment and overgrazing.
- Natural Hazards and Climatic Extremes: Floods, droughts, and forest fires alter vegetation growth and composition. Example: Forest fires in Uttarakhand affecting chir pine forests.
Role of National Parks in Conserving Forest Ecosystems and Biodiversity
India has over 100 National Parks covering around 1.35% of its geographical area, playing a critical role in preserving diverse vegetation across climatic zones.
- Habitat Protection: National parks provide legal protection to flora and fauna by restricting human activity. Example: Jim Corbett National Park conserves sal forests and the Bengal tiger habitat.
- Rain-fed Region Conservation: Many parks are located in rain-fed zones where forests are climate-sensitive and biodiversity-rich. Example: Bandipur and Nagarhole parks in Karnataka conserve deciduous forests dependent on monsoon rains.
- Biodiversity Hotspot Safeguarding: Parks in biodiversity-rich zones help conserve endemic and endangered species. Example: Silent Valley National Park protects endangered lion-tailed macaque in the Western Ghats.
- Ecological Services and Climate Resilience: National parks help in carbon sequestration, soil moisture retention, and maintaining the hydrological cycle in monsoon-dependent areas. Example: Kaziranga National Park aids in Brahmaputra floodplain regulation and ecosystem balance.
- Research, Education, and Ecotourism Promotion: National parks support ecological research, awareness generation, and sustainable tourism. Example: Sundarbans National Park provides insights into mangrove ecosystems and climate adaptation.
- Corridor Creation and Landscape Connectivity: Parks contribute to landscape-level conservation by facilitating species migration across protected areas. Example: Kanha-Pench corridor supports tiger movement and genetic diversity.
Conclusion
With growing pressures from population and climate change, National Parks are vital for ecological balance. As per India’s State of Forest Report 2021, they help maintain forest cover and biodiversity. Strengthening them ensures long-term sustainability.
