Which Union Ministry is primarily responsible for the implementation and oversight of wetland conservation policies and initiatives like the Amrit Dharohar in India?
A Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
B Ministry of Jal Shakti
C Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
D Ministry of Rural Development
Answer: C
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) is the nodal ministry for wetland conservation in India, including the formulation and implementation of policies and programs such as the Amrit Dharohar Initiative.
62.
As of early 2026, what is the approximate number of Ramsar Sites designated in India, reflecting its commitment to wetland conservation?
A 50
B 65
C 80
D 95
Answer: C
As of early 2024, India has 80 designated Ramsar Sites. Assuming no significant additions by early 2026 for exam purposes, this number reflects India's growing commitment to wetland conservation under the Ramsar Convention.
63.
Which of the following initiatives, launched in 2023, aims to promote the unique conservation values of India's Ramsar Sites?
A Project Tiger
B Amrit Dharohar Initiative
C National River Conservation Plan
D Green India Mission
Answer: B
The Amrit Dharohar Initiative, launched in June 2023, aims to conserve and promote the unique conservation values of India's Ramsar Sites, ensuring their sustainable use and enhancing local livelihoods.
64.
Which of the following is a key mission under India's National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) specifically aimed at addressing climate change impacts and promoting sustainable development in the Indian Himalayan Region?
A National Solar Mission
B National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem (NMSHE)
C National Mission for Green India
D National Water Mission
Answer: B
The National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem (NMSHE) is one of the eight missions under India's National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC). Its primary objective is to evolve measures for sustaining and safeguarding the Himalayan ecosystem, considering the impacts of climate change.
65.
To enhance the resilience of Himalayan communities and ecosystems against climate change, which of the following approaches is most crucial?
A Promoting large-scale industrial development in sensitive zones
B Implementing early warning systems for disasters and promoting climate-resilient infrastructure
C Shifting entirely to monoculture farming practices
D Reducing international cooperation on transboundary water management
Answer: B
Enhancing resilience in the Himalayas requires a multi-faceted approach, with crucial elements including the implementation of early warning systems for hazards like GLOFs and landslides, developing climate-resilient infrastructure, promoting sustainable land use, and strengthening local adaptive capacities.
66.
Which of the following is considered a significant impact of climate change on the Himalayan ecosystem, directly affecting its resilience?
A Increased snowfall at lower altitudes
B Accelerated glacial melt and formation of new glacial lakes
C Expansion of temperate forests into arid zones
D Decrease in frequency of extreme weather events
Answer: B
Accelerated glacial melt, leading to the formation and expansion of glacial lakes (and potential Glacial Lake Outburst Floods - GLOFs), is one of the most critical and well-documented impacts of climate change on the Himalayan ecosystem, severely affecting water resources and increasing disaster risk.
67.
Under the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017, which of the following activities is generally prohibited within wetlands and their zone of influence?
A Sustainable fishing practices
B Setting up of new industries and expansion of existing ones
C Regulated ecotourism activities
D Traditional agricultural practices by local communities
Answer: B
The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017, prohibit certain activities within wetlands and their zone of influence, including setting up of new industries, expansion of existing industries, dumping of solid waste, discharge of untreated effluents, and encroachment. Sustainable practices and traditional uses are often regulated or permitted.
68.
Which recent initiative, launched by the Government of India, aims to conserve wetlands and promote their optimal use, building upon the existing wetland conservation framework?
A Project Dolphin
B Amrit Dharohar
C Green India Mission
D National River Conservation Plan
Answer: B
The Amrit Dharohar initiative, launched in 2023, is a key government program focused on the conservation and optimal use of wetlands, particularly Ramsar sites, promoting local livelihoods and ecotourism. It works in conjunction with the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017.
69.
Which of the following is the primary legal framework governing wetland conservation and management in India as of 2026?
A Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017
B National Wetland Policy, 2023
C Environment Protection Act, 1986 (with specific wetland amendments)
D Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (with specific wetland provisions)
Answer: A
The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017, notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, remain the primary legal framework for wetland conservation in India. While initiatives like Amrit Dharohar complement it, the 2017 Rules define the regulatory aspects.
70.
Which new global initiative, promoting a sustainable lifestyle, was highlighted in India's updated NDCs?
A Green India Mission
B National Clean Air Programme
C Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE)
D Swachh Bharat Abhiyan
Answer: C
India's updated NDCs emphasize 'Lifestyle for Environment' (LiFE), a mass movement for a healthy and sustainable way of living based on traditions and values of conservation and moderation.
