Environment and General Science

Environment

 

FAQs on Environment and General Science of Uttarakhand

What are the major environmental concerns in Uttarakhand?

Uttarakhand faces several environmental challenges due to its fragile Himalayan ecosystem:

  • Deforestation: Unsustainable logging and land clearing for agriculture and infrastructure projects.
  • Soil Erosion: Loss of topsoil due to deforestation and heavy rainfall, leading to landslides and flooding.
  • Pollution: Industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and tourism-related pollution affecting rivers and air quality.
  • Climate Change: Melting glaciers, changing rainfall patterns, and increased risk of natural disasters.
  • Human-Wildlife Conflict: Increasing human encroachment into wildlife habitats leading to conflicts.

What are the steps being taken to address these environmental concerns?

The Uttarakhand government and various NGOs are working on several initiatives:

  • Afforestation and Reforestation: Planting trees to restore forest cover.
  • Soil Conservation Measures: Implementing techniques like terracing and check dams to prevent soil erosion.
  • Pollution Control: Implementing stricter regulations on industrial waste disposal and promoting eco-friendly tourism.
  • Climate Change Adaptation: Developing strategies to cope with changing climate conditions.
  • Wildlife Conservation: Establishing protected areas and corridors for wildlife movement.

What is the significance of the Chipko Movement in Uttarakhand?

The Chipko Movement (1970s) was a landmark environmental movement in Uttarakhand where villagers, especially women, hugged trees to prevent them from being felled. It raised awareness about deforestation and its impact on local communities.

What are some important scientific institutions in Uttarakhand?

  • Wildlife Institute of India (WII): A premier institute for wildlife research and training.
  • Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG): Conducts research on the geology of the Himalayas.
  • Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES): An astronomical observatory located in Nainital.
  • Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS): A research institute specializing in remote sensing technology.

What are the major contributions of Uttarakhand to science and technology?

  • Herbal Medicine: Uttarakhand is rich in medicinal plants and traditional knowledge of Ayurveda.
  • Hydropower: The state is a major producer of hydroelectric power, contributing to India’s renewable energy goals.
  • Space Research: ARIES has contributed to various astronomical discoveries and space missions.

What are some interesting scientific facts about Uttarakhand?

  • Valley of Flowers: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique biodiversity and variety of flowering plants.
  • Hemkund Sahib: A high-altitude Sikh pilgrimage site with a glacial lake.
  • Mussoorie: Known as the “Queen of Hills,” it is home to several educational institutions and research centers.