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Biodiversity & Protected Areas in India | UPSC Prelims Notes (English)

 

Special Topic – Biodiversity & Protected Areas in India
UPSC Prelims Focus
Introduction
Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms present on Earth, including plants, animals, and microorganisms. India is one of the world's richest countries in terms of biodiversity due to its diverse ecosystems.
Biodiversity Hotspots in India
Biodiversity hotspots are regions with high levels of species richness and endemism, but also under threat.

• Western Ghats
• Eastern Himalayas
• Indo-Burma Region
• Sundaland (Nicobar Islands)
Types of Protected Areas
India has a structured system for conservation:

• National Parks – Strict protection, no human activity allowed
• Wildlife Sanctuaries – Limited human activity permitted
• Biosphere Reserves – Conservation along with sustainable development
• Conservation Reserves – Government-managed buffer areas
• Community Reserves – Managed with local community participation
Important Examples
• Kaziranga National Park – Known for one-horned rhinoceros
• Gir National Park – Home of Asiatic lions
• Sundarbans – Largest mangrove ecosystem
• Periyar – Famous for elephants
Key Concepts for Prelims
• Endemism – Species found only in a specific region
• Conservation – Protection of biodiversity
• Hotspots – High biodiversity + high threat
• Ecosystem – Interaction between living organisms and environment
Prelims Quick Points:
• India has 4 biodiversity hotspots
• National Parks have strict protection rules
• Biosphere reserves follow zonation system
• Species-location questions are very important
Conclusion
Biodiversity conservation is essential for ecological balance and sustainable development. It is a high-priority topic in UPSC Prelims due to its conceptual and factual importance.
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