Ecology & Environment – General Studies

Endemism refers to the state of being restricted in geographical distribution to a specific area or region. It is an ecological classification that characterizes the range or distribution of a particular species or group of species.

Biodiversity is the collective term for all living organisms on Earth, encompassing the diversity within and among various ecosystems. 

Biodiversity encompasses the abundance and diversity of life forms on Earth, constituting the most intricate and crucial aspect of our planet. 

The acknowledgment of a site as a “Ramsar Site” and its inclusion in the List signify the government’s commitment to taking necessary measures for the preservation of its ecological character.

The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands sets forth principles for the conservation and responsible utilization of all wetlands through cooperation at the local, national, and international levels, aiming to foster sustainable development worldwide.

Wetlands, crucial ecosystems bridging land and water, play a fundamental role in supporting biodiversity, regulating climate, and providing vital services to humanity.

The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017, have been formally established by the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) in alignment with the provisions outlined in the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. 

The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010, were officially announced by the Ministry of Environment and Forests. 

The National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA) is a conservation initiative focused on wetlands and lakes. 

Wetlands encompass areas characterized by marsh or peatland, featuring water that is either static or flowing, ranging from fresh and brackish to saline.