Based on the provided question paper for Environmental Science: Theory into Practice

(II), here is the analysis and solutions for the questions applicable to regular students.

As per the instructions, regular students must complete Part A (Question 1 is mandatory, plus
two others) and Part B (any two questions)1.

Part A: Mandatory & Optional Questions

Question 1 (Mandatory)

1(a) Expand the following: 2

●​ (i) IUCN: International Union for Conservation of Nature3.​

●​ (ii) MOEFCC: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change4.​

●​ (iii) NGT: National Green Tribunal5.​

●​ (iv) UNFCCC: United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change6.​

●​ (v) EPA: Environment Protection Act7.​

1(b) Fill in the blanks: 8

●​ (i) Ozone layer in the stratosphere protects us from UV rays9.​

●​ (ii) World Environment Day is celebrated on June 5th10.​

●​ (iii) Total number of biodiversity hotspots in India is 4 (Himalayas, Western Ghats,

Indo-Burma region, and Sundaland)11.​

●​ (iv) Gene bank is the example of Ex-situ conservation strategy12.​

●​ (v) 33% is the estimated percentage of forest area that India should really have (as per
 the National Forest Policy)13.​

Additional Info: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) was established in 2010 for
effective and expeditious disposal of cases relating to environmental protection.
Regarding biodiversity hotspots, while there are 36 globally, India hosts 4 that are
critical for endemic species.

Question 2: Short Notes (Attempt any 4) 14

●​ (a) Endangered Species: Species at high risk of extinction in the wild. Example: Asiatic
Lion or Bengal Tiger15.​

●​ (b) Carbon Footprint: The total amount of greenhouse gases (including carbon dioxide
and methane) generated by our actions1616.​

●​ (c) Acid Rain: Rainfall made sufficiently acidic by atmospheric pollution (sulfur dioxide
and nitrogen oxides) that it causes environmental harm, typically to forests and lakes17.​

●​ (d) Montreal Protocol: An international treaty (1987) designed to protect the ozone layer
by phasing out the production of numerous substances (CFCs) responsible for ozone
depletion18.​

●​ (e) Sacred Groves: Traditionally protected patches of vegetation usually dedicated to

local deities, playing a vital role in in-situ biodiversity conservation19.​

Question 3: Impacts and Conservation (Attempt any 2) 20

●​ (a) Climate Change & Indian Agriculture: Climate change leads to unpredictable
monsoons, increased frequency of droughts/floods, and heatwaves. This reduces crop
yields (especially wheat and rice), shifts sowing seasons, and threatens food security in
India21.​

●​ (b) Levels of Biodiversity:

1.​ Genetic Diversity: Variation of genes within a species22.​

2.​ Species Diversity: Variety of species within a habitat or region23.​

3.​ Ecosystem Diversity: Variety of ecosystems (forests, deserts, wetlands) in a

 geographical area24.​

●​ (c) Cultural Practices in Conservation: Many Indian cultures practice nature worship
(e.g., Bishnoi community’s protection of Khejri trees). Festivals like Vat Purnima or the
maintenance of temple tanks help preserve local flora and water bodies25252525.​

Question 4: Environmental Movements in India 26

●​ Major Movements:
○​ Chipko Movement: Non-violent movement in the 1970s aimed at protecting trees by
hugging them27.​

○​ Narmada Bachao Andolan: Protest against large dams on the Narmada River,
highlighting displacement issues28.​

○​ Silent Valley Movement: Successful protest against a hydroelectric project in Kerala

to save a tropical rainforest29.​

●​ Issues: These movements often involve economic issues (loss of livelihoods for forest
dwellers) and identity issues (tribal rights and traditional ways of life being threatened
by modernization)30.​

Part B: Data Analysis & Values (Attempt any 2)

Question 5: Hydropower Data 31313131

Data Table:
| Country | Energy (Mtoe) |
| :--- | :--- |
| Canada | 4567 |
| UK | 2590 |
| India | 2983 |
| Netherlands | 811 |
| Japan | 1800 |
| Bangladesh | 700 |
●​ (a) Pie Chart Logic: To create the chart, calculate percentages: Total = 13,451. (e.g.,
Canada ≈ 34%, India ≈ 22%) 32.​
 ●​ (b) Renewable Impact: Hydropower has a much lower carbon footprint than fossil
fuels because it doesn't burn fuel to generate electricity, significantly reducing a
country's total CO2 emissions33.​

●​ (c) Categorization:
○​ Developed: Canada, UK, Netherlands, Japan3434.​

○​ Developing: India, Bangladesh3535.​

○​ Trend: Developed countries generally have higher or more established hydropower

capacities, while developing countries like India are rapidly growing their capacity but
still rely on a mix of sources36363636.​

Question 6: Population Growth Graph 37

●​ (a) Mid-point Calculation (1930-40):

○​ Population in 1930 ≈ 630,00038.​

○​ Population in 1940 ≈ 630,00039.​

○​ Growth: The graph appears flat during this specific decade, suggesting near-zero
growth or a plateau404040.​

●​ (b) Birth & Death Rates:

○​ Birth Rate: Number of live births per 1,000 people per year41.​

○​ Death Rate: Number of deaths per 1,000 people per year42.​

○​ Population growth = (Birth Rate - Death Rate) + Net Migration43.​

●​ (c) Dip in 1950-80: The graph shows a decline from its peak in 1950 down to 198044.​

○​ Possible Reasons: War, pandemics, mass emigration, or successful family planning

and industrialization leading to lower birth rates45.​

Question 7: Value of Biodiversity 46

●​ Values: Direct use (food, medicine), indirect use (carbon sequestration, water
 purification), and aesthetic/ethical value47.​

●​ Examples:
○​ Terrestrial (Forest): Timber, oxygen production, and habitat for pollinators4848.​

○​ Aquatic (Riverine): Fishing for food, water for irrigation, and nutrient cycling49494949.​

Would you like me to create a mock practice test based on these topics to help you
prepare for your upcoming exam?
Based on the provided question paper for Environmental Science: Theory into Practice
(II), here is the analysis and complete solutions for the questions intended for Regular
Students.

As per the instructions, regular students must complete Part A (Question 1 is mandatory, plus
two others) and Part B (any two questions)1111.

Part A: Mandatory & Optional Questions

Question 1 (Mandatory) 222

1(a) Expand the following: 3

●​ (i) UNEP: United Nations Environment Programme.

●​ (ii) CITES: Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and
Flora.
●​ (iii) NGC: National Green Corps.
●​ (iv) CBD: Convention on Biological Diversity.
●​ (v) WPA: Wildlife Protection Act.

1(b) State whether True or False: 4

●​ (i) Noise pollution can increase stress and anxiety levels. (True) 5​

●​ (ii) Carbon monoxide is not a greenhouse gas contributing to global warming. (True) —
Note: While CO affects the lifetime of other GHGs, it is not a direct greenhouse gas. 6​

●​ (iii) Greenpeace was founded in 1971 to support environmental causes and promote
non-violent protest. (True) 7​

●​ (iv) Ozone holes are more pronounced at the equator. (False) — They are most
pronounced over the poles, especially Antarctica.
●​ (v) Project Tiger was launched on April 1, 1983, by the Government of India. (False) — It
was launched on April 1, 1973. 8​
Question 2: Short Notes (Attempt any 4) 99

●​ (a) Endemic Species: Species that are native to and restricted to a specific
geographical area (e.g., the Lion-tailed Macaque in the Western Ghats)10.​

●​ (b) Biological Invasions: The rapid expansion of a non-native species into a new area,
often causing harm to the local ecosystem (e.g., Lantana camara in Indian forests)11.​

●​ (c) Global Warming: The long-term heating of Earth's climate system observed since the
pre-industrial period due to human activities, primarily fossil fuel burning12.​

●​ (d) Swachh Bharat Abhiyan: A country-wide campaign initiated by the Government of

India in 2014 to eliminate open defecation and improve solid waste management13.​

●​ (e) Biodiversity: The variety and variability of life on Earth, measured at the genetic,
species, and ecosystem levels14.​

Question 3: Differentiate Between (Attempt any 2) 1515

●​ (a) Biosphere Reserves vs. Biodiversity Hotspots: * Biosphere Reserves are large
areas of terrestrial/coastal ecosystems where people are an integral part of the system
(e.g., Nilgiri).
○​ Hotspots are regions with high levels of species richness and high rates of
endemism that are under significant threat1616.​

●​ (b) Resettlement vs. Rehabilitation: * Resettlement is the physical movement of

people from their original homes.
○​ Rehabilitation is the process of restoring their livelihoods, social networks, and
standard of living after displacement1717.​

●​ (c) In-situ vs. Ex-situ Conservation: * In-situ conservation happens in the natural
habitat (e.g., National Parks).
○​ Ex-situ involves moving organisms out of their natural habitat to protected
environments (e.g., Seed Banks, Zoos)1818.​
Question 4: Climate Change & Rural Livelihood 19

●​ Impact on Livelihood: Climate change alters rainfall patterns, leading to crop failure,
water scarcity, and loss of livestock, which are the mainstays of rural Indian economies20.​

●​ Impact on Women: Women often bear a disproportionate burden because they are
typically responsible for collecting water and firewood21. As these resources become
scarce, their labor time increases, affecting their health and education opportunities22.​

Part B: Data Analysis & Nuclear Energy (Attempt any 2) 2323

Question 5: Nuclear Energy Data 242424

Data Analysis Table: 25

| Indian State | Energy (Mw) | Percentage (approx) |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| Maharashtra | 6753 | 45.4% |
| Uttar Pradesh | 3652 | 24.5% |
| Rajasthan | 2123 | 14.3% |
| Tamil Nadu | 856 | 5.8% |
| Karnataka | 650 | 4.4% |
| Gujarat | 534 | 3.6% |
| Total | 14868 | 100% |
●​ (a) Pie Chart: Maharashtra would take up nearly half the chart, followed by Uttar
Pradesh26.​

●​ (b) Nuclear Benefits: It is environment-friendly because it produces zero carbon

emissions during operation27. It is cost-effective due to the high energy density of
nuclear fuel28.​

●​ (c) Global Warming Context: In India, nuclear energy serves as a reliable "base-load"
power source that can replace coal-fired plants, significantly reducing the country's
greenhouse gas emissions29292929.​

Question 6: Population Growth Graph 30

 ●​ (a) Comparison (1960-70 vs. 2010-20): 31​

○​ 1960-70: Showed a steep, rapid climb (high growth rate)32.​

○​ 2010-20: The curve is starting to flatten slightly compared to the mid-20th century,
though population is still increasing33.​

●​ (b) Birth & Death Rates:

○​ Birth Rate: Total live births per 1,000 population34.​

○​ Death Rate: Total deaths per 1,000 population35. Population grows when Birth Rate >
Death Rate.​

●​ (c) Economic Impact: High exponential growth creates a "demographic burden" where
the demand for resources (food, housing, jobs) exceeds the country's infrastructure
capacity, potentially slowing GDP per capita growth36363636.​

Question 7: Threats to Biodiversity 37373737

●​ Threats: Habitat fragmentation (breaking forests into small patches), pollution,

over-exploitation, and climate change38.​

●​ Habitat Loss: Urbanization and infrastructure projects (dams, roads) directly destroy
natural areas39.​

●​ Prevention: Implementing strict laws (like WPA), creating biological corridors to

reconnect fragmented habitats, and promoting sustainable community-led
conservation40404040.​

Important Additional Information for Students

●​ The National Green Tribunal (NGT): Unlike the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
which is a regulatory body, the NGT is a judicial body with the power to settle
environmental disputes and award compensation41.​

●​ Biodiversity Conservation: In India, conservation is often categorized as In-situ

(National Parks like Corbett) and Ex-situ (Zoological parks like National Zoological Park,
Delhi)42424242.​
Would you like me to create a summary table of the key environmental acts mentioned
(WPA, EPA, CBD) to help with your last-minute revision?
This analysis and set of solutions are based on the provided question paper for
Environmental Science: Theory into Practice (II) (June 2024 session)1.

According to the instructions, students must attempt Question 1 (Compulsory) and any two
of the remaining four questions2222.

Part 1: Compulsory Question

Question 1(a): True or False
●​ (i) Forest Conservation Act came into existence in the year 1980. (False)33. Note: The
act was actually enacted in 1980, not 1960 as suggested in the paper.​

●​ (ii) Cryopreservation is an example of ex-situ conservation. (True)4444.​

●​ (iii) India has been divided into 5 recognizable biogeographic zones. (False)555.
Note: India is divided into 10 distinct biogeographic zones (Trans-Himalaya, Himalaya,
Desert, Semi-arid, Western Ghats, Deccan Peninsula, Gangetic Plain, Coasts, Northeast,
and Islands).​

●​ (iv) Asiatic Lion is an example of invasive species in India. (False)6666. Note: The
Asiatic Lion is an endemic species, restricted to the Gir Forest in Gujarat.​

●​ (v) The National Green Tribunal (NGT) was set up under the NGT Act in the year
2010. (True)777.​

Question 1(b): Fill in the Blanks

●​ (i) Ozone is found in the stratosphere layer of the atmosphere8.​

●​ (ii) There are currently 36 biodiversity hotspots across the world9999.​

●​ (iii) Photochemical Smog formation occurs mostly during the summer season101010.​

●​ (iv) An international agreement signed in 1987 for phasing out ozone-depleting

substances is the Montreal Protocol11.​

●​ (v) Lantana camara (or Parthenium/Water Hyacinth) is an example of an invasive species

 in India12.​

Part 2: Optional Questions (Select Any Two)

Question 2: Differentiate Between (Attempt any 2) 13

●​ (a) Kyoto Protocol vs. Montreal Protocol:

○​ Kyoto Protocol: An international treaty (1997) focused on reducing greenhouse gas
emissions to combat global warming.
○​ Montreal Protocol: An international treaty (1987) focused on phasing out
ozone-depleting substances (like CFCs)14.​

●​ (b) Invasive Species vs. Endemic Species:

○​ Invasive Species: Non-native species that spread rapidly and cause ecological or
economic harm (e.g., Water Hyacinth)15.​

○​ Endemic Species: Species native and restricted to a specific geographical area

(e.g., Lion-tailed Macaque in Western Ghats).
●​ (c) Chipko Movement vs. Silent Valley Movement:
○​ Chipko Movement: A 1970s non-violent movement in Uttarakhand where villagers
hugged trees to prevent commercial logging16.​

○​ Silent Valley Movement: A successful protest in Kerala against a hydroelectric

project to protect a tropical evergreen forest from being submerged17.​

Question 3: Short Notes (Attempt any 2) 18

●​ (a) Environmental Legislation in India: India has a robust framework including the
Wildlife Protection Act (1972), Water Act (1974), Forest Conservation Act (1980), Air Act
(1981), and the Environment Protection Act (1986).
●​ (b) Resettlement and Rehabilitation: This refers to the process of physically moving
and socially/economically restoring people displaced by developmental projects like
dams or highways19.​

●​ (c) Clean Energy Alternatives: These include solar, wind, hydroelectric, and nuclear
energy, which help combat global warming by reducing reliance on fossil fuels that emit
carbon dioxide20.​
Question 4: Project Tiger 21

●​ (a) Account of Project Tiger: Launched in 1973, it is one of the world's most successful
species conservation programs. It utilizes a "core-buffer" strategy to protect tiger
habitats and ensure a viable population of Bengal tigers in India22.​

●​ (b) Importance as a Flagship Species: The tiger is a "flagship species," meaning its
conservation acts as an umbrella that protects the entire ecosystem (all other flora and
fauna) within its habitat23.​

Question 5: Environmental Movements 2424

●​ Justification: Movements like Narmada Bachao Andolan and Appiko have forced
policy changes and increased public awareness regarding biodiversity. These movements
highlight the link between social justice and environmental health, often led by local
communities protecting their ancestral lands25252525.​

Important Additional Information

●​ Flagship vs. Keystone Species: While the tiger is a flagship species used for public
appeal, it is also a keystone species because it regulates prey populations, maintaining
the balance of the forest ecosystem.
●​ NGT Power: The National Green Tribunal has the power to provide relief and
compensation to victims of pollution and other environmental damage26.​

Would you like me to prepare a focused study guide on the 10 Biogeographic Zones of
India, as they frequently appear in these exams?
Based on the provided question paper for Environmental Science: Theory into Practice (II)
(June 2024, Morning Session), here is the analysis and complete solutions for regular
students.

According to the instructions, students must attempt three questions in total: Question 1 is
compulsory, and you must choose any two from the remaining four1.

Part 1: Compulsory Question

Question 1(a): State whether True or False
●​ (i) The Royal Bengal tiger is endemic to India.​
​
​
False. 2 While India has the largest population, Royal Bengal tigers are also native to
Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal.​

●​ (ii) Kyoto Protocol is an international treaty aimed to reduce the emission of gases that
contribute to global warming.​
​
​
True. 333 It focuses specifically on greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction.​

●​ (iii) Silent Valley movement took place in Uttarakhand.​

​
​
False. 4444 The Silent Valley movement occurred in Kerala; the Chipko movement took
place in Uttarakhand.​

●​ (iv) Wildlife Protection Act came into existence in the year 1972.​
​
​
True. 555​

●​ (v) Ozone layer is situated in the mesosphere layer of atmosphere.​

​
​
False. 666 The ozone layer is located in the stratosphere.​
Question 1(b): Fill in the Blanks
●​ (i) The Great Indian Bustard has been listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red
List of Threatened Species. 7​

●​ (ii) Acid rain is caused by the release of Sulfur dioxide ($SO_2$) and Nitrogen oxides
($NO_x$) into the atmosphere. 8​

●​ (iii) Diclofenac is the drug that was responsible for large-scale death of vultures in the
Indian subcontinent. 9​

●​ (iv) Carbon footprint is a measure of the amount of greenhouse gases released by

various activities of an individual or entity. 10​

●​ (v) Ramsar Convention is an international treaty for the protection of wetlands. 11111111​

Part 2: Optional Questions (Attempt any two)

Question 2: Differentiate Between (Attempt any 2)
●​ (a) National Green Tribunal (NGT) vs. National Green Corps (NGC):
○​ NGT: A specialized judicial body (established in 2010) for environmental cases and
legal disputes. 12​

○​ NGC: A program (Eco-clubs) launched by the Ministry of Environment to spread

environmental awareness among school children. 13​

●​ (b) Biosphere Reserve vs. Biodiversity Hotspot:

○​ Biosphere Reserve: Large areas of representative ecosystems where conservation
is balanced with sustainable human use (e.g., Nilgiri). 14​

○​ Hotspot: A biogeographic region with significant levels of biodiversity that is under

threat from humans (requires at least 1,500 endemic plant species and 70% habitat
loss). 1515​

●​ (c) In-situ vs. Ex-situ Conservation:

○​ In-situ: Conservation of species in their natural habitats (e.g., National Parks, Wildlife
Sanctuaries). 16​

○​ Ex-situ: Conservation of species outside their natural habitats (e.g., Seed banks,
 Zoos, Botanical gardens). 17​

Question 3: Short Notes (Attempt any 2)

●​ (a) Levels of Biodiversity: Includes Genetic diversity (variation within species),
Species diversity (variety of species in a region), and Ecosystem diversity (variety of
habitats/ecosystems). 18​

●​ (b) Impact of Global Warming on Agriculture: Causes shifting crop seasons, reduced
yields due to heat stress, increased pests, and unpredictable irrigation due to changing
rainfall patterns. 19​

●​ (c) Impacts of Ozone Layer Depletion: Leads to increased UV radiation reaching Earth,
causing skin cancer, cataracts, damage to terrestrial plants, and disruption of marine
food chains (plankton). 20​

Question 4: Mega-diversity & Hotspots

●​ (a) India as a Mega-diversity Nation: India possesses 4 of the 36 global biodiversity
hotspots and hosts roughly 7-8% of all recorded species despite having only 2.4% of the
world's land area. 21212121​

●​ (b) Criteria for Biodiversity Hotspot:

1.​ Endemism: It must contain at least 1,500 species of vascular plants as endemics.
22222222
​

2.​ Threat Level: It must have lost at least 70% of its original native vegetation. 23232323​

Question 5: Population Explosion

●​ Justification: Rapid human population growth leads to over-exploitation of natural
resources (deforestation for housing/farming) and increased pollution (waste
generation). 24​

●​ Examples: Urban sprawl encroaching on forest land in India and the depletion of
groundwater levels in major cities due to excessive demand. 25​

Important Additional Information for Your Exam

●​ Biogeographic Zones: Remember that India is divided into 10 zones (e.g., The
Trans-Himalayas, The Islands, etc.). This is a frequent exam point.
●​ Ozone Layer Location: Always specify the Stratosphere ($10-50$ km altitude). The
"good" ozone is there; "bad" ozone is at ground level (Troposphere).
○​ Tiger Conservation: Note the difference between a Flagship species (chosen for
public appeal, like the Tiger) and a Keystone species (crucial for ecosystem
function). The Tiger is both.

Would you like me to create a quick comparison table of the major Indian
Environmental Acts (1972, 1974, 1981, 1986) to help you memorize their years and
purposes?
Based on the provided question paper for Environmental Science: Theory into Practice (II)
from January 2024, here is the analysis and complete solutions for Regular Students.

According to the instructions, regular students must complete Part A (Question 1 is

mandatory, plus two others) and Part B (any two questions)1111.

Part A: Mandatory & Optional Questions

Question 1 (Mandatory) 2222

1(a) Fill in the blanks:

●​ (i) Himalayas and Western Ghats are two biodiversity hotspots in India3. (Note:
Indo-Burma and Sundaland are also recognized hotspots in the Indian context).​

●​ (ii) Conservation in the natural habitat is called In-situ conservation4.​

●​ (iii) Ozone layer in the stratosphere protects us from UV radiations5.​

●​ (iv) IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) is the organization responsible
for maintaining the Red Data Book6.​

●​ (v) Brundtland commission published their report called "Our Common Future" in 19877.​

1(b) Expand the following (Any five): 8

●​ (i) EPA: Environment Protection Act.

●​ (ii) OPCW: Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.
●​ (iii) CITES: Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and
Flora.
●​ (iv) CBD: Convention on Biological Diversity.
●​ (v) MAB: Man and the Biosphere Programme.
●​ (vi) IPCC: Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
●​ (vii) UNFCCC: United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
Question 2: Differentiate Between (Attempt any 2) 9

●​ (a) In-situ vs. Ex-situ Conservation:

○​ In-situ: Conserving species within their natural habitats (e.g., National Parks, Wildlife
Sanctuaries, and Biosphere Reserves).
○​ Ex-situ: Conserving species outside their natural habitats (e.g., Zoological Parks,
Botanical Gardens, Seed Banks, and Cryopreservation).
●​ (b) Climate vs. Weather:
○​ Weather: The short-term state of the atmosphere at a specific time and place
(minutes to days).
○​ Climate: The long-term average of weather patterns in a specific region over a long
period (typically 30 years).
●​ (c) Wildlife Protection Act (1972) vs. Forest Conservation Act (1980):
○​ Wildlife Protection Act: Focused on the protection of wild animals, birds, and plants
and the management of their habitats.
○​ Forest Conservation Act: Primarily aimed at controlling deforestation and the
diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes.

Question 3: Project Tiger and Displacement 10

●​ (a) Project Tiger's role in Biodiversity Conservation:

○​ Launched in 1973, it uses the "Umbrella Species" concept: by protecting the tiger (a
top predator), the entire ecosystem, including herbivores and vegetation, is
preserved.
○​ It helped establish a network of Tiger Reserves with "Core" and "Buffer" zones to
minimize human-wildlife conflict.
●​ (b) Resettlement and Rehabilitation (R&R) Challenges:
○​ Loss of Livelihood: Indigenous communities often lose access to forest resources or
traditional agricultural land.
○​ Social Disruption: Moving communities breaks traditional social structures and
cultural ties to the land.
○​ Example: The Narmada Bachao Andolan highlighted how large dam projects lead
to massive displacement without adequate land-for-land rehabilitation.

Question 4: Environmental Legislation in India 11

●​ India has a comprehensive legal framework. The Environment Protection Act (1986)
acts as "umbrella legislation," allowing the central government to coordinate activities of
various authorities.
●​ The National Green Tribunal (NGT), established in 2010, provides a specialized judicial
body for the effective and expeditious disposal of cases relating to environmental
 protection and conservation.

Part B: Data Analysis & Environmental Impacts (Attempt any 2) 12

Question 5: Carbon Dioxide Emissions 131313

●​ (a) Population vs. Emission Analysis:

○​ China has the highest total emissions ($10.43$ billion tons) and the highest world
share ($29.18\%$)14.​

○​ India has the highest population ($1.33$ billion) but a relatively low per capita
emission ($1.89$ tons) compared to the US ($14.02$ tons)15.​

●​ (b) Carbon Footprint: The total amount of greenhouse gases (including carbon dioxide
and methane) that are generated by our actions16.​

○​ Descending Order (Per Capita): 1. United States ($14.02$) -> 2. Russia ($11.45$) ->
3. Japan ($9.76$) -> 4. China ($7.44$) -> 5. India ($1.89$)17.​

●​ (c) Implications:
○​ Economic: Transitioning to low-carbon economies requires massive investment but
avoids the future costs of climate disasters.
○​ Ecological: High emissions lead to global warming, rising sea levels (threatening
coastal cities like Mumbai or Tokyo), and loss of biodiversity.

Question 6: Greenhouse Effect 18181818

●​ (a) Temperature vs. $CO_2$ Correlation: The data shows a clear positive correlation.
As $CO_2$ concentration increased from $161$ ppm ($1961-70$) to $203$ ppm
($2011-20$), the mean atmospheric temperature change rose from $-0.64$ to $6.82$19.​

●​ (b) Greenhouse Effect & Anthropogenic Role:

○​ The Greenhouse Effect is a natural process where gases trap heat in the atmosphere.
○​ Anthropogenic (human) emissions, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation,
increase the concentration of these gases, leading to "Enhanced Global Warming"20.​

●​ (c) Mitigation Measures:

○​ Shifting to renewable energy (solar, wind).
○​ Afforestation and reforestation to create carbon sinks.
 ○​ Improving energy efficiency in industries and transport.

Question 7: IUCN Red List 21

●​ (a) IUCN Red List Criteria: Used to evaluate the extinction risk of species based on
population size reduction, geographic range, and small population size/restriction22.​

●​ (b) Major Categories & Examples:

○​ Extinct (EX): No reasonable doubt that the last individual has died (e.g., Dodo).
○​ Critically Endangered (CR): Facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild
(e.g., Great Indian Bustard).
○​ Endangered (EN): Facing a very high risk of extinction (e.g., Asiatic Lion, Bengal
Tiger).
○​ Vulnerable (VU): Facing a high risk of extinction (e.g., One-horned Rhinoceros).

Important Additional Information

●​ The 10 Biogeographic Zones of India: Often asked in EVS papers. These include the
Trans-Himalayas, Himalayas, Desert, Semi-arid, Western Ghats, Deccan Peninsula,
Gangetic Plain, Coasts, Northeast, and Islands.
●​ National Green Tribunal (NGT) Principles: It is guided by the Polluter Pays Principle,
the Precautionary Principle, and Sustainable Development.

Would you like me to create a quick reference table for the common environmental
abbreviations (like UNFCCC, CBD, CITES) to help with your revisions?
Based on the provided question paper for Environmental Science: Theory into Practice (II)
(January 2024 session), here is the analysis and complete solutions for the questions
applicable to Regular Students.

As per the instructions, regular students must complete Part A (Question 1 is mandatory, plus
two others) and Part B (any two questions)1111.

Part A: Mandatory & Optional Questions

Question 1 (Mandatory)
1(a) State True or False:
●​ (i) Asiatic lions are endemic to India. (True)2. Note: They are found naturally only in the
Gir National Park, Gujarat.​

●​ (ii) Habitat loss is the most significant threat to biodiversity. (True)3.​

●​ (iii) Environmental Protection Act (EPA) was passed in 1996. (False)4. Note: The EPA
was passed in 1986.​

●​ (iv) Medha Patekar was associated with Tehri Dam movement. (False)5. Note: She is
the lead figure of the Narmada Bachao Andolan. Sunderlal Bahuguna was associated
with the Tehri Dam protest.​

●​ (v) Sacred groves are an example of ex-situ conservation. (False)6. Note: They are an
example of in-situ conservation as the species are protected in their natural habitat.​

1(b) Define (Any five):

●​ (a) Sustainable Development: Development that meets the needs of the present
without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs7.​

●​ (b) Invasive Species: Non-native species introduced to an ecosystem that spread

rapidly and cause ecological or economic harm8.​

●​ (c) Ecological Footprint: A measure of how much biologically productive land and water
an individual or population requires to produce the resources it consumes and to absorb
its waste9.​
●​ (d) Red Data Book: A public document established by the IUCN for documenting rare
and endangered species of animals, plants, and fungi10.​

●​ (e) Endemism: The ecological state of a species being unique to a defined geographic
location, such as an island or nation11.​

●​ (f) Kyoto Protocol: An international treaty aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions
to combat global warming12.​

Question 2: Differentiate Between (Attempt any 2)

●​ (i) Invasive vs. Endemic Species: Invasive species are non-native organisms that
disrupt local ecosystems (e.g., Water Hyacinth), whereas Endemic species are native
and restricted to one specific area (e.g., Sangai deer in Manipur)13.​

●​ (ii) Ozone Depletion vs. Greenhouse Effect: Ozone depletion is the thinning of the
ozone layer in the stratosphere due to CFCs, increasing UV exposure14. The Greenhouse
Effect is the trapping of heat in the troposphere by gases like $CO_2$, leading to global
warming15.​

●​ (iii) Climate vs. Weather: Weather refers to short-term atmospheric conditions (daily),
while Climate is the average of weather patterns over a long period, usually 30 years16.​

Question 3: Short Notes (Attempt any 2)

●​ (i) Bishnois of Rajasthan: A community famous for their peaceful environmental
conservation. They follow 29 principles, including the protection of all living beings and
trees (notably the Khejri tree)17.​

●​ (ii) Rio Earth Summit, 1992: A major UN conference that produced "Agenda 21" and led
to the creation of the UNFCCC and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)18.​

●​ (iii) NAPCC: The National Action Plan on Climate Change, which outlines eight
"National Missions" (Solar, Water, Green India, etc.) to help India adapt to and mitigate
climate change19.​

Question 4: Vulture Conservation in India

●​ Decline Reason: The primary reason for the decline of vultures in India was the use of
Diclofenac, a veterinary anti-inflammatory drug used in cattle20. Vultures feeding on
carcasses of cattle treated with this drug suffered kidney failure and died21.​

●​ Importance of Protected Areas: Vulture Breeding Centers (like the one in Pinjore) and
protected areas like National Parks provide a "Diclofenac-free" zone and a safe
environment for the recovery of these "Critically Endangered" scavengers22.​

Part B: Data Analysis (Attempt any 2)

Question 5: Temperature Comparison (India vs. Delhi)
●​ (a) Analysis: The data shows that Delhi's average temperature is consistently slightly
lower than the national average in almost every month (e.g., Jan: $14.1$ vs $13.4$)23.​

●​ (b) Implications: Differences in local micro-climates suggest varying needs for energy
(heating/cooling) and different impacts on local biodiversity24.​

●​ (c) Reasons for Difference: Delhi is a specific urban locality with an Urban Heat Island
effect, whereas the "India" average includes varied terrains like the Himalayas, deserts,
and coastal regions, which balance out the overall mean25.​

Question 6: IUCN Red List Matching

●​ (a) Correct Matching26:​

○​ Extinct: Dodo.
○​ Extinct in Wild: Species surviving only in cultivation or captivity.
○​ Critically Endangered: Reduction in population > 90% (or 70% in some contexts)
over 10 years.
○​ Endangered: Facing a very high risk of extinction (e.g., Snow Leopard).
○​ Vulnerable: Facing a high risk of extinction (e.g., Blackbuck).
○​ Least Concern: Common Grasshopper / Common Crow.
○​ Data Deficient: Inadequate information to make an assessment.
●​ (b) Conservation Importance: The Red Data Book provides critical information on
species status, helps prioritize conservation efforts, and raises global awareness about
biodiversity loss27.​
Question 7: Carbon Footprint
●​ (a) Definition: The total amount of greenhouse gases produced to directly and indirectly
support human activities28.​

●​ (b) Calculation: It is calculated by summing emissions from energy use, transportation,

waste, and consumption of goods/services, often expressed in equivalent tons of
$CO_2$29.​

●​ (c) Implications: A large footprint accelerates global warming (environmental) and

increases costs related to carbon taxes and health issues arising from pollution
(socioeconomic)30.​

Important Additional Information

●​ Ozone Layer: Remember it is located in the Stratosphere ($10-50$ km)31.​

●​ Key Species: The Asiatic Lion is a flagship species for Gujarat, and the Great Indian
Bustard is a critically endangered bird often featured in these papers.

Would you like me to create a summary of the 8 missions of the NAPCC, as they are a
frequent topic for long-form questions?