Social Science 2 Marks Each

There are a total of 9 zoo-geographic regions of India: (1) Himalayan region, (2) Ladakh and the arid region, (3) Lower Himalayas having forest cover. (4) Higher regions of Himalayas without any vegetation. (5) Northern plain. (6) Rajasthan desert. (7) Peninsular plateau. (8) Seacoasts and (9) Nilgiri hills.

Herbs means grass or plants. The animals feeding on grass are called Herbivorous. For eg.. Deer. Due to heavy grazing by domestic animals in the forests, herbivores are deprived of their food which results in decrease in their numbers.

(1) 'National Park' is a protected area for the maintenance of natural vegetation, wild animals, places of natural beauty and national importance. (2) There is a strict restriction on human dwelling, grazing or for any economic activity related to forests and a total ban on animal hunting.

(1) The area which is declared as protected for the protection and conservation of endangered animals is called 'Sanctuary'. Here both the environment as well as the wild animals are protected. (2) There is a strict restriction on tree felling and hunting animals is prohibited.

Animals which live independently without depending on man are called 'Wild animals'.

(1) Wildlife is an inseparable part of our life. These are the protectors of environment, so are our friends. Their well-being and protection is to our benefit. (2) But today, wildlife is in danger in many ways, so for their protection and conservation, the Government has mentioned them in the Fundamental Duties and the Directive Principles. (3) According to the recommendations of the Wildlife Board, the Indian Parliament has passed Wildlife Conservation Act. (4) As per this Act. sanctuaries, national parks and bio-reserve zones are created for the wild animals in the country. (5) Besides, the Government has planned out special projects for those endangered animal species which are on the verge of extinction. Thus, the Government has given a special attention for the conservation of wildlife.

(1) Due to the destruction of forests, the wild animals are losing their natural dwellings. This is why they are in danger. (2) Hunting of animals and birds is carried out for their meat, hides, bones. horns, teeth, feathers, etc. or for hobby. (3) Many times, the farmers use insecticides to protect their crops and use poison to kill animals-birds. (4) The anti-animal activities by men and vanishing of water resources in the forests also cause danger for the wild animals.

(1) In diversity of birds. India stands second after Latin America. (2) Famous Indian birds are peacock. swan, crane, ghoral (ghorad), chilotro. etc. The peacock looks very beautiful due to its feathers. Two feet high crane and heaviest bird ghoral (Great Indian Bustard) are attractive birds. (3) Flamingos which come to India in thousands to lay eggs during winter form a Flamingo city' in the Greater Rann of Kachchh. (4) Cuckoo is also famous for its sweet voice. (5) There are a large numbers of birds like crow, dove, kabar, sparrow, parrot, duck, hawk, owl, vulture, kite. etc. Thus. India has a matchless varieties of birds.