संसाधन और विकास

Resources and Development

• Resources are categorized by their origin (biotic/abiotic), exhaustibility (renewable/non-renewable), ownership (individual/community/national/international), and development status (potential/developed/reserves).
• Resources are crucial for human survival and quality of life.
• Unsustainable resource use leads to problems like resource depletion, unequal resource distribution (haves/have-nots), and global ecological crises (global warming, ozone depletion, pollution, land degradation).

Resource Classification

• Resources are classified based on origin, exhaustibility, ownership, and development status.
• Resources can be biotic (living) or abiotic (non-living).
• Renewable resources are continuously available (e.g. water, wind, forests).
• Non-renewable resources are finite, or not replenished at a human timescale (e.g., metals, fossil fuels).
• Resources can belong to private individuals, communities, nations, or have no owner, and some are potential, yet undeveloped.

Development of Resources

• Resources are vital for human survival and well-being.
• Resource planning is crucial to ensure balanced and equitable use of resources.
• Regional disparities in resource distribution need attention through balanced regional resource management plans.

Solutions for Resource Issues

• Equitable resource distribution is necessary.
• Proper resource planning is essential.
• Sustainable development principles guide future resource management to avoid environmental damage.

Resource Planning in India

• India has diverse resource distribution.
• Balanced regional/national/local resource planning is needed.
• Resource identification, mapping, and quantitative data are essential.
• Appropriate technology, skills, and institutions for resource development are key.
• Resource development plans should align with national development plans.
• Efficient use of resources (local examples) is essential.

Conservation of Resources

• Gandhiji's concept of using resources based on needs and not greed.
• Resource conservation has been more systematically addressed at an international level since the 1960s.
• Sustainable development concept emphasizes responsible development that meets contemporary needs without jeopardizing future generations.
• Earth Summit, Rio de Janeiro (1992) showcased the importance of sustainable development.

Land Resources

• Land is a vital resource with limited availability.
• Land is used for various purposes, including agriculture, industry, forests, and settlements.
• Land use statistics provide insights into land use patterns in India.
• Land distribution varies across regions based on geological and geographical factors.

Land Utilization

• Land is categorized for various activities (forest, cultivation, wasteland, etc.).
• Fallow lands include those left uncultivated for varying periods.
• Net sown area is the area where crops are directly sown/harvested.
• Gross cropped area considers multiple harvests.
• Land use patterns vary significantly across India.

Land Degradation

• Land degradation and conservation efforts are crucial for sustainability.
• Deforestation and over-exploitation are key factors causing land degradation
• Human activities, like mining, overgrazing, and over-irrigation can lead to land deterioration.
• Sustainable solutions are needed to address land conservation.

Soil as a Resource

• Soil is an important renewable natural resource.
• Various factors affect soil formation. It is essential for agriculture and other activities.
• Soil types and characteristics vary based on regional conditions.

Soil Classification

• Different soils are classified based on their characteristics, composition, and suitability for growth (Alluvial, Black, Red and Yellow soils).
• Understanding soil characteristics helps in choosing suitable agricultural practices.

Soil Conservation

• Soil conservation practices are necessary to prevent erosion and maintain soil fertility
• Contour plowing, terrace cultivation, and shelter belts are some techniques for managing soil erosion.

State of India's Environment (case studies)

• India has various environmental issues. Case studies help illustrate solutions and management strategies.
• People's involvement and governmental/community initiatives have resulted in improved environmental outcomes on the ground.