Environment & Ecology MCQs

National Wildlife Week is observed from October 2nd to 8th every year in India, coinciding with Mahatma Gandhi's birthday, a proponent of nature conservation.

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) has been instrumental in promoting the concept of Dark Sky Reserves worldwide to protect astronomical sites from light pollution.

The main goals are to foster astro-tourism and mitigate light pollution, thereby preserving the pristine night sky for astronomical observations.

India's first Dark Sky Reserve is located in Hanle, Ladakh, to promote astro-tourism and protect the night sky from light pollution.

The NAP primarily involves local communities through Forest Management Committees (FMCs) and Eco-Development Committees (EDCs) for the on-ground implementation of afforestation and reforestation activities.

Increased funding for NAP is directed towards enhancing the effectiveness of afforestation efforts, focusing on restoring degraded forest areas, increasing biodiversity, and augmenting the country's capacity to absorb carbon dioxide.

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) is the nodal ministry for the National Afforestation Programme, overseeing its planning and execution.

Conservation efforts include establishing protected areas, habitat management, captive breeding programs to increase population numbers, and mitigation of threats like power line collisions.

Habitat loss and fragmentation due to agricultural expansion, industrialization, and infrastructure projects like power lines (which cause bird collisions) are the most significant threats to the GIB.

Rajasthan, particularly the Desert National Park area, is the primary stronghold for the Great Indian Bustard. Some populations also exist in Gujarat and other neighboring areas.