Environment PDF - Previous Year UPSC Question Paper Analysis (2011-2018)

 SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT CONTENTS Previous Year UPSC Question paper analysis (2011...

 SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT CONTENTS Previous Year UPSC Question paper analysis (2011 to 2018)  xiii PART-I ENVIRONMENTAL ECOLOGY S.No Chapter Page No. 1. ECOLOGY 3-9 History of Ecology 3 Environment and its Components  3 Levels of Organisation  4 2. FUNCTIONS OF AN ECOSYSTEM  11-21 Energy Flow  11 Food Chain  11 Food Web  12 Ecological Pyramid  13 Pollutants and Trophical Level  15 Biotic Interaction  16 Bio-Geochemical Cycle  16 Ecological Succession  20 3. TERRESTRIAL ECOSYSTEM 23-32 Tundra 23 Forest Ecosystem 23 Indian Forest Types 25 Deforestation 27 Grassland Ecosystem 28 Desert Ecosystem (Thar & Cold) 29 Desertification 31 State of forest report, 2017 32 4. AQUATIC ECOSYSTEM 33-53 Aquatic Organism 33 Lake Ecology 35 Eutrophication 36 Harmful Algal bloom...............................................................................................................38 Wetland Ecosystem 39 National Wetland Conservation Programme 42 All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing. v SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT Montreux Record 43 Estuary Ecosystem 43 Mangrove Ecosystem 45 Coral Reefs 47 Coral Bleaching 49 Initiatives to Protect Coastal Environment 50 Ganga Action Plan  51 Namami Ganga Program 51 Clean Ganga Fund 52 Recent Measures............................................................................................................................53 5. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION 55-82 Pollutants 55 Air Pollution 55 Smog 56 Indoor Air Pollution 57 Fly Ash 58 NAMP & NAAQ 60 Air Pollution in India 61 Water Pollution 62 Soil Pollution 65 Noise Pollution 66 Radio Active Pollution 67 E-Waste 69 Solid Waste 71 Thermal Pollution 73 Plastics Pollution 74 Bio-Remediation 76 Environmental Pollution and Health 77 Acid Rain 78 6. RENEWABLE ENERGY 83-91 Solar Energy 83 International Solar Alliance 84 Luminescent Solar Concentrators 84 Wind Energy 85 Hydro Power 86 Ocean Thermal Energy 87 Cogeneration 88 Waste to Energy 89 Geothermal Energy 89 Fuel Cells 90 7. ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES 93-108 Indian Himalayan Region  93 Sand Mining in India 97 Palm Oil - Environmental Issues 100 Colony Collapse Disorder 102 vi All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing.  SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT Wildlife Deaths Due to Collision With Trains 104 Impact of Radiation 105 Genetically Engineered Trees 106 MoEFCC Banned Dolphin Captivity 106 Prohibition of Removal of Shark Fins in the Sea 107 Cost of Environmental Degradation in India 108 8. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT 109-119 The Need for EIA 109 EIA Cycle and its Procedures 110 Components of EIA 113 Procedure of Public Hearing 116 Drawbacks and Recommendations of EIA 116 Environmental supplemental plan 119 PARIVESH............................................................................................................................... 119 PART-II BIODIVERSITY S.No Chapter Page No. 9. BIODIVERSITY 123-127 Biodiversity 123 Levels of Biodiversity 123 Measurement of Biodiversity 124 Biodiversity Services 124 Modes of Conservation 125 Botanical Garden and Zoo 125 Red Data Book 126 10. INDIAN BIODIVERSITY 129-137 Indian Bio-Geographical Classification 129 Fauna Diversity 131 Flora Diversity 133 Indian Wildlife  136 11. SCHEDULE ANIMALS OF WPA, 1972 139-152 Schedule List - WPA 139 12. ANIMAL DIVERSITY OF INDIA 153-159 Mammal Critically endangered 153 Marine Mammals 155 Egg Laying Mammals 155 All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing. vii SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT Marsupial 155 Birds Critically endangered 156 Corals 158 Bird Migration 158 Wild Life Disease 158 Species Extinction 158 Man- Animal Conflict 159 13. PLANT DIVERSITY OF INDIA 161-169 Plant Classification 161 Effect of Abiotic Components on Plants 161 Insectivorous Plant 162 Invasive Alien Species 164 Invasive Alien Flora of India 164 Medicinal Plants 166 Tree Characters 167 14. MARINE ORGANISM 171-173 Plankton 171 Phyto-Plankton 171 Zoo-Plankton 172 Sea Grass 172 Sea Weed 173 15. PROTECTED AREA NETWORK 175-185 National Initiative Wildlife Sanctuary and National Parks 175 Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves 177 Coastal Protected Areas 177 Sacred Groves of India 178 Export Prohibited Items 179 Global Initiative Man And Biosphere 179 Biosphere Reserves 180 National Biosphere Reserve Programme 181 World Network of Biosphere Reserves 182 Biodiversity Hotspots 183 World Heritage Sites 184 16. CONSERVATION EFFORTS 187-199 Project Tiger 187 Project Elephant 190 Vulture 192 One Horned Rhinoceros 195 viii All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing.  SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT Project Snow Leopard 196 Secure Himalaya.................................................................................................................... 197 Sea Turtle Project 197 Crocodile Conservation Project 197 Project Hangul 198 Captive Breeding 198 Dolphin 198 Government Measures 199 India Adopt SAWEN............................................................................................................... 199 PART-III CLIMATE CHANGE S.No Chapter Page No. 17. CLIMATE CHANGE 203-210 Global Warming 203 Green House Effect 204 Green House Gases 205 Climate Forcing 208 Global Warming Potential 209 Receding Glaciers. A Symptom of Global Climate Change 210 18. OCEAN ACIDIFICATION  211-213 19. OZONE DEPLETION 215-220 20. IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE – INDIA 221-226 Agriculture and Food Security 221 Water Stress and Water Insecurity 222 Sea Level Rise 223 Ecosystem and Biodiversity 224 Climate Change and Health 225 21. MITIGATION STRATEGIES 227-231 Carbon Sequestration 227 Carbon Sink 228 Carbon Credit 228 Carbon Offsetting 229 Carbon Tax 229 Geo-Engineering 230 22. INDIA AND CLIMATE CHANGE 233-250 India’s Position on Climate Change  233 Observed Climate and Weather Changes in India 233 Current Actions for Adaptation and Mitigation  234 National Action Plan on Climate Change 235 All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing. ix SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT Indian Network on Climate Change Assessment 241 National Communication (NATCOM) 242 India’s Policy Structure Relevant to GHG Mitigation 243 Green Building  244 Griha 245 National Initiative on Climate Resilient Agriculture  247 BSE Greenex  248 Fame-India Programme 249 Long Term Ecological Observatories (LTEO).....................................................................249 The National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC)...........................................249 Other Critical Entities  249 23. CLIMATE CHANGE ORGANISATIONS  251-271 UNFCCC 251 KYOTO Protocol  251 Conference of Parties 258 Other Mechanism of UNFCCC 260 REDD and REDD+  261 Global Environment Facilities  262 Climate Smart Agriculture  262 Inter Governmental Panel on Climate Change 263 National Green House Gas Inventories Programme 264 Green Economy  265 Climate Finance Architecture 267 PART-IV AGRICULTURE S.No Chapter Page No. 24. AGRICULTURE 275-293 Agriculture 275 Crop and its Classification 276 Tillage 279 Cropping System and Pattern 280 Farming System 282 Sustainable Agriculture 283 Organic Farming 284 Integrated Farming System 285 Soil Science 288 x All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing.  SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT PART-V S.No Chapter Page No. 25. ACTS AND POLICIES  297-311 Wild Life Protection Act 1972  297 Environmental Protection Act 1986 298 National Forest Policy 1988 299 Biological Diversity Act 2002 299 Schedule Tribes and Other Forest Dwellers Act 2006 299 Coastal Regulation Zone  302 Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016......................................................................307 E-Waste Management Rules, 2016....................................................................................... 308 Plastic Waste Management (PWM) Rules, 2016................................................................. 309 Wetland Rules 2010 310 Nation Green Tribunal  311 The Ozone Depleting Substances Rules 311 26. INSTITUTION AND MEASURES  313-319 National Wide Life Action Plan 313 National Afforestation And Eco-Development Board 313 CAMPA 314 Joint Forest Management 314 Social Forestry  315 National Bamboo Mission  315 CEPI 316 Lighting a Billion Lives 316 Eco-Mark 317 USERS 317 BCRLIP 317 National Clean Energy Fund 317 National Mission for Electric Mobility  318 Science Express - Bio Diversity Special  318 Mangrove for Future  319 27. ENVIRONMENTAL ORGANISATIONS 321-324 Animal Welfare Board  321 Central Zoo Authority 322 National Bio Diversity Authority  322 Wildlife Crime Control Bureau  323 National Lake Conservation Plan 323 National Ganga River Basin Authority  324 28. INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONVENTIONS 325-340 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development  325 Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) 326 All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing. xi SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT Ramsar Convention On Wetlands 330 CITES 332 The Wildlife Trade Monitoring Network (TRAFFIC) 332 Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS) 333 Coalition Against Wildlife Trafficking (CAWT) 333 International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) 334 United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF) 334 IUCN 335 Global Tiger Forum (GTF) 335 Stockholm Convention 336 Basel Convention  337 Rotterdam Convention  337 United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification 338 International Whaling Commission (IWC)  338 Vienna Convention and Montreal Protocol  339 Kigali Agreement 349 Globally Important Agriculture Heritage Systems 340 Minamata Convention.......................................................................................................... 340 29. ENVIRONMENT ISSUES AND HEALTH EFFECTS 341-346 Toxicology Effects  341 Lead in Paints 342 Transfat 342 High Caffeine in Energy Drinks 342 Pesticide in Human Blood 342 Testing of Pesticide Toxicity 342 Diseases Caused by Environmental Degradation 343 Miscellaneous Topics - CHIPKO Movements 344 APPIKO Movements 344 The National Wastelands Development Board 345 GLOSSARY 347-354 APPENDIX  355-363 Ramsar Wetland Sites in India 355 Tiger Reserves of India 355 Elephant Reserves in India 356 Mike Sites in India 357 Biosphere Reserves 357 List of India’s Biosphere Reserves in UNESCO’s Map List 358 Natural World Heritage Sites 358 List of Sacred Groves 359 Mangrove Sites in India 359 List of Key Activities and Likely Associated Air Pollutants 360 Respiratory Irritants and Toxic Chemicals 361   xii All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing.  SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT PRELIMINARY PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTION PAPERS 2011 QUESTION PAPER ENVIRONMENTAL ECOLOGY & 3. Recycling of waste BIODIVERSITY 4. Pollination of crops Select the correct answer using the codes given below: 1. Consider the following statements: a. 1,2 and 3 only b. 2,3 and 4 only 1. Biodiversity is normally greater in the lower lati- c. 1 and 4 only d. 1,2,3 and 4 tudes as compared to the higher latitudes. 4. Which one of the following is not a site for in-situ 2. Along the mountain gradients, biodiversity is nor- method of conservation of flora? mally greater in the lower altitudes as compared to the higher altitudes. a. Biosphere Reserves Which of the statements given above is/are correct? b. Botanical Garden a. 1 only b. 2 only c. National Park c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 d. Wildlife Sanctuary 2. Three of the following criteria have contributed to 5. Among the following States, which one has the most the recognition of Western Ghats – Sri Lanka and suitable climatic conditions for the cultivation of a Indo-Burma regions as hotspots of bio-diversity. large variety of orchids with minimum cost of pro- 1. Species richness duction, and can develop an export oriented industry 2. Vegetation density in this field? 3. Endemism a. Andhra Pradesh 4. Ethno-botanical importance b. Arunachal Pradesh c. Madhya Pradesh 5. Threat perception d. Uttar Pradesh 6. Adaptation of flora and fauna to warm and humid conditions 6. A sandy and saline area is the natural habitat of an Which three of the above are correct criteria in this Indian animal species. The animal has no predators context? in that area but its existence is threatened due to the a. 1, 2 and 6 b. 2, 4 and 6 destruction of its habitat. Which one of the following c. 1, 3 and 5 d. 3, 4 and 6 could be that animal? a. Indian wild buffalo 3. Biodiversity forms the basis for human existence in the following ways: b. Indian wild ass 1. Soil formation c. Indian wild boar 2. Prevention of soil erosion d. Indian Gazelle All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing. xiii  SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT 7. The “Red Data Books’ published by the International Select the correct answer from the codes given below: Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Re- a. 1 only b. 1 and 2 only sources (IUCN) contain lists of c. 2 and 3 only d. 1,2 and 3 1. Endemic plant and animal species present in the 11. The Himalayan Range is very rich in species diver- biodiversity hotspots. sity. Which one among the following is the most 2. Threatened plant and animal species. appropriate reason for this phenomenon? 3. Protected sites for conservation of nature & natural a. It has a high rainfall that supports luxuriant veg- resources in various countries. etative growth. Which of the statement given above is / are correct? b. It is a confluence of different bio geographical zones. a. 1 & 3 b. 2 only c. Exotic and invasive species have not been intro- c. 2 & 3 d. 3 only duced in this region. d. It has less human interference. 8. In the context of eco-system productivity, marine upwelling zones are important as they increase the 12. If a tropical rain forest is removed, it does not re- marine productivity by bringing the generate quickly as compared to a tropical deciduous forest. This is because 1. Decomposer microorganisms to the surface. a. the soil of rain forest is deficient in nutrients 2. Nutrients to the surface. b. propagules of the trees in a rain forest have poor 3. Botton-dwelling organisms to the surface. viability Which of the statements given above is/are correct? c. the rain forest species are slow-growing a. 1 and 2 b. 2 only d. exotic species invade the fertile soil of rain forest. c. 2 and 3 d. 3 only 13. When the bark of a tree is removed in a circular 9. The 2004 Tsunami made people realize that man- fashion all around near its base, it generally dries groves can serve as a reliable safety hedge against up and dies because coastal calamities. How do mangroves function as a a. Water from soil cannot rise to aerial parts. safety hedge? b. Roots are starved of energy a. The mangroves swaps separate the human settle- c. Tree is infected by soil microbes ments from the sea by a wide zone in which people d. Roots do not receive oxygen for respiration neither live nor venture out b. The mangroves provide both food and medicines CLIMATE CHANGE which people are in need of after any natural dis- aster. 14. Consider the following: c. The mangroves trees are tall with dense canopies 1. Photosynthesis and serve as an excellent shelter during a cyclone 2. Respiration or tsunami 3. Decay of organic matter d. The mangroves trees do not get uprooted by storms 4. Volcanic action and tides because of their extensive roots. Which of the above add carbon dioxide to the carbon 10. There is a concern over the increase in harmful cycle on Earth? algal blooms in the seawaters of India. What a. 1 and 4 only b. 2 and 3 only could be the causative factors for this phenomenon? c. 2,3 and 4 only d. 1, 2, 3 and 4 1. Discharge of nutrients from the estuaries. 15. Consider the following: 2. Run-off from the land during the monsoon. 1. Carbon dioxide 3. Upwelling in the seas. 2. Oxides of Nitrogen xiv All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing.  SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT 3. Oxides of Sulphur 3. Customs Act, 1962 Which of the above is/are the emission / emissions 4. Indian Forest Act, 1927 from coal combustion at thermal power plants? Which of above Acts have relevance to / bearing on the a. 1 only b. 2 and 3 only biodiversity conservation in the country? c. 1 and 3 only d. 1,2 and 3 a. 1 and 3 only b. 2,3 and 4 only 16. The formation of ozone hole in the Antartic region c. 1,2,3 and 4 d. None of the above Acts has been a cause of concern. What could be the rea- son for the formation of this hole? a. Presence of prominent tropospheric turbulence; and CURRENT AFFAIRS inflow of chlorofluoro carbons 19. Recently, ‘oilzapper’ was in the news. What is it? b. Presence of prominent polar front and stratospheric a. It is an eco-friendly technology for the remediation clouds; and inflow of chloro fluorocarbons of oil sludge and oil spills. c. Absence of polar front and stratospheric clouds; and b. It is the latest technology developed for under-sea inflow of methane and chloro fluorocarbons. oil exploration. d. Increased temperature at polar region due to global warming c. It is a genetically engineered high biofuel yielding maize variety. 17. Regarding “carbon credits”, which one of the follow- d. It is the latest technology to control the accidentally ing statements is not correct? caused flames from oil wells. a. The carbon credit system was ratified in conjunc- tion with the Kyoto Protocol b. Carbon credits are awarded to countries or groups MAP BASED QUESTION that have reduced greenhouse gases below their emission quota 20. Two important rivers – one with its source in c. The goal of the carbon credit system is to limit the Jharkhand (and known by a different name in Odi- increase of carbon emission quota sha), and another, with its source in Odisha – merge d. Carbon credits are traded at a price fixed from time at a place only a short distance from the coast of Bay to time by the United Nations Environment Pro- of Bengal before flowing into the sea. This is an im- gramme. portant site of wildlife and bio-diversity and a pro- tected area. Which one of the following could be ACT & POLICIES this? a. Bhitarkanika 18. With reference to India, consider the following Cen- b. Chandipur-on-sea tral Acts: c. Gopalpur-on-sea 1. Import and Export (Control) Act, 1947. 2. Mining and Mineral Development (Regulation) Act, 1957 d. Simlipal 2011 - Answers 1(c) 2(c) 3(d) 4(b) 5(b) 6(b) 7(b) 8(b) 9(d) 10(d) 11(b) 12(a) 13(a) 14(c) 15(d) 16(b) 17(d) 18(c) 19(a) 20(a)  All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing. xv  SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT 2012 QUESTION PAPER 1. Which of the following can be threats to the biodiver- 5. Consider the following: sity of a geographical area? 1. Black-necked crane 1. Global warming 2. Cheetah 2. Fragmentation of habitat 3. Flying squirrel 3. Invasion of alien species 4. Snow leopard 4. Promotion of vegetarianism Which of the above are naturally found in India? Select the correct answer using the codes given below. a. 1,2 and 3 only b. 1,3 and 4 only a. 1, 2 and 3 only b. 2 and 3 only c. 2 and 4 only d. 1,2,3 and 4 c. 1 and 4 only d. 1, 2, and 4 6. Consider the following kinds of organisms 2. In which one among the following categories of pro- 1. Bat tected areas in India are local people not allowed to collect and use the biomass? 2. Bee a. Biosphere Reserves 3. Bird b. National Parks Which of the above is/are pollinating agent / agents? c. Wetlands declared under Ramsar Convention a. 1 and 2 only b. 2 only d. Wildlife Sanctuaries c. 1 and 3 only d. 1, 2 and 3 3. Consider the following protected areas 7. Which one of the following groups of animals be- 1. Bandipur longs to the category of endangered species? 2. Bhitarkanika a. Great Indian Bustard, Musk Deer, Red Panda and Asiatic Wild Ass 3. Manas b. Kashmir Stag, Cheetal, Blue Bull and Great Indian 4. Sunderbans Bustard Which of the above are declared Tiger Reserves? c. Snow Leopard, Swamp Deer, Rhesus Monkey and a. 1, 3 and 2 only Saras (Crane) b. 1, 3 and 4 only d. Lion-tailed Macaque, Blue Bull, Hanuman Langur c. 2, 3 and 4 only and Cheetal d. 1, 2, 3 and 4 8. What would happen if phytoplankton of an ocean is 4. What is the difference between the antelopes Oryx completely destroyed for some reason? and Chiru? 1. The ocean as a carbon sink would be adversely af- a. Oryx is adapted to live in hot and arid areas fected. whereas Chiru is adapted to live in steppes and 2. The food chains in the ocean would be adversely semi-desert areas of cold high mountains. affected. b. Oryx is poached for its antlers whereas Chiru is 3. The density of ocean water would drastically de- poached for its musk. crease. c. Oryx exists in western India only whereas Chiru Select the using codes given below: exists in north-east India only. a. 1 and 2 only b. 2 only d. None of the statements a, b, and c given above is c. 3 only d. 1,2 and 3 correct. xvi All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing.  SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT 9. With reference to the wetlands of India, consider the 13. The acidification of oceans is increasing. Why is this following statements: phenomenon a cause of concern? 1. The country’s total geographical area under the 1. The growth and survival of calcareous phytoplank- category of wetlands is recorded more in Gujarat as ton will be adversely affected. compared to other States. 2. The growth and survival of coral reefs will be ad- 2. In India, the total geographical area of coastal wet- versely affected. lands is larger than that of inland wetlands. 3. The survival of some animals that have phytoplanktonic Which of the statements given above is/are correct? larvae will be adversely affected. a. 1 only b. 2 only 4. The cloud seeding and formation of clouds will be c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 adversely affected. 10. Vultures which used to be very common in Indian Which of statements given above is / are correct? countryside some years age are rarely seen nowa- a. 1,2 and 3 only b. 2 only days. This is attributed to a. the destruction of their nesting sites by new inva- c. 1 and 3 only d. 1,2,3 and 4 sive species. b. a drug used by cattle owners for treating their dis- eased cattle. ACT & POLICIES c. scarcity of food available to them d. a widespread, persistent and fatal disease among 14. The National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 was enacted in them consonance with which of the following provisions of the Constitution of India? 1. Right to healthy environment, construed as a part of CLIMATE CHANGE part of Right to life under Article 21. 2. Provision of grants for raising the level of adminis- 11. Consider the following statements: Chlorofluorocar- tration in the Scheduled Areas for the welfare of bons, known as ozone- depleting substances, are Scheduled Tribes under Article 275(1) used Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1. in the production of plastic foams a. 1 only b. 2 only 2. in the production of tubeless tyres c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 3. in cleaning certain electronic components 15. How does National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) 4. as pressurizing agents in aerosol cans help in protecting the Indian agriculture? Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1. NBA checks the biopiracy and protects the indige- a. 1, 2 and 3 only b. 4 only nous and traditional genetic resources. c. 1, 3 and 4 only d. 1, 2, 3 and 4 2. NBA directly monitors and supervises the scientific 12. The increasing amount of carbon dioxide in the air research on genetic modification of crop plants. is slowly raising the temperature of the atmosphere, 3. Application for intellectual Property Rights related because it absorbs to genetic / biological resources cannot be made a. the water vapour of the air and retains its heat. without the approval of NBA. b. the ultraviolet part of the solar radiation. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? c. all the solar radiations. a. 1 only b. 2 and 3 only d. the infrared part of the solar radiation c. 1 and 3 only d. 1, 2 and 3 All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing. xvii  SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT CURRENT AFFAIRS MAP BASED QUESTION 16. Government of India encourages the cultivation 17. A particular State in India has the following charac- of ‘sea buckthorn’. What is the importance of this teristics: plant? 1. It is located on the same latitude which passes a. It helps in controlling soil erosion and in preventing through northern Rajasthan. desertification. 2. It has over 80% of its area under forest cover. b. It is a rich source of biodiesel. 3. Over 12% of forest cover constitutes Protected Area c. It has nutritional value and is well-adapted to live Network in this State. in cold areas of high altitudes. Which one among the following States has all the above characteristics? d. Its timber is of great commercial value. a. Arunachal Pradesh b. Assam c. Himachal Pradesh d. Uttarakhand 2012 - Answers 1 (a) 2 (b) 3 (b) 4 (a) 5 (b) 6 (d) 7 (a) 8 (a) 9 (a) 10 (b) 11 (d) 12 (d) 13 (a) 14 (a) 15 (c) 16 (a) 17 (a) (Q.no. 7 is disputed)  xviii All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing.  SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT 2013 QUESTION PAPER ENVIRONMENTAL ECOLOGY, BIODIVERSITY, CLIMATE CHANGE, ACT & POLICIES, CURRENT AFFAIRS AND MAP BASED QUESTIONS 1. Consider the following statements: 6. Mycorrhizal biotechnology has been used in reha- Which one among the following industries is the bilitating degraded sites because mycorrhiza enables maximum consumer of water in India? the plants to (a) Engineering (b) Paper and pulp 1. Resist drought and increase absorptive area (c) Textiles (d) Thermal power 2. Tolerate extremes of pH 2. Fruits stored in a cold chamber exhibit longer stor- 3. Resist disease infestation age life because Select the correct answer using the code given below (a) Exposure to sunlight is prevented (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (b) Concentration of carbon dioxide in the environment (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 is increased (c) Rate of respiration is decreased 7. With reference to the food chains in ecosystems, which of the following kinds of organism is/are (d) There is an increase in humidity known as decomposer organism/organisms? 3. Consider the following fauna of India: 1. Virus 2. Fungi 1. Gharial 3. Bacteria 2. Leatherback turtle Select the correct answer using the code given below 3. Swamp deer (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only Which of the above is/are endangered? (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 1, 2 and 3 (d) None 8. Which of the following is/are unique characteristic/ characteristics of equatorial forests? 4. Many transplanted seedling do not grow because 1. Presence of tall, closely set trees with crowns form- (a) the new soil does not contain favourable minerals ing a continuous canopy. (b) most of the root hairs grip the new soil too hard 2. Coexistence of a large number of species. (c) most of the root hair are lost during transplantation 3. Presence of numerous varieties of epiphytes. (d) leaves get damaged during transplantation Select the correct answer using the code given below 5. Which of the following leaf modification occurs/ (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only occur in desert areas to inhibit water loss? (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 1. Hard and waxy leaves 9. Consider the following crops: 2. Tiny leaves or no leaves 1. Cotton 2. Groundnut 3. Thorns instead of leaves 3. Rice 4. Wheat Select the correct answer using the codes given below: Which of these are Kharif crops? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (a) 1 and 4 (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 (c) 1 2, and 3 (d) 2, 3 and 4 All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing. xix  SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT 10. “Climate is extreme, rainfall is scanty and the people 15. With reference to food chains in ecosystems, con- used to be nomadic herders”. sider the following statements: The above statement best describes which of the 1. A food chain illustrates the order in which a chain following regions? of organisms feed upon each other. (a) African Savannah 2. Food chains are found within the populations of a (b) Central Asian Steppe species. (c) North American Prairie (d) Siberian Tundra 3. A food chain illustrates the numbers of each organ- ism which are eaten by others. 11. Under the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 2006, who shall be the authority to initiate the pro- (a) 1 only (doubt) (b) 1 and 2 only cess for determining the nature and extent of indi- vidual or community forest rights or both? (c) 1, 2 and 3 (d) None (Doubt) (a) State Forest Department 16. Consider the following pairs: (b) District Collector / Deputy Commissioner National Park River flowing through (c) Tahsildar / Block Development Officer / Mandal the Park Revenue Officer (d) Gram Sabha 1. Corbett National Park : Ganga 2. Kaziranga National Park : Manas 12. Improper handling and storage of cereal grains and oilseeds result in the production of toxins known as 3. Silent Valley National Park : Kaveri aflatoxins which are not generally destroyed by nor- Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched? mal cooking process. Aflatoxins are produced by (a) 1 and 2 (b) 3 only (a) bacteria (b) protozoa (c) moulds (d) viruses (c) 1 and 3 (d) None 13. Due to improper / indiscriminate disposal of old and 17. Consider the following organisms: used computers or their parts, which of the follow- 1. Agaricus 2. Nostoc ing are released into the environment as e-waste? 3. Spirogyra 1. Beryllium 5. Mercury 2. Cadmium 6. Lead Which of the above is/are used as biofertilizer/ 3. Chromium 7. Plutonium biofertilizers? 4. Heptachlor (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 only Select the correct answer using the codes given below. (c) 2 and 3 (d) 3 only (a) 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only 18. Which of the following adds/add nitrogen to the soil? (b) 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 only 1. Execretion of urea by animals (c) 2, 4, 5 and 7 only 2. Burning of coal by man (d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 3. Death of vegetation 14. Acid rain is caused by the pollution of environment by Select the correct answer using the codes given (a) carbon dioxide and nitrogen below. (b) carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) ozone and carbon dioxide (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 (d) nitrous oxide and sulphur dioxide xx All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing.  SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT 19. In which of the following States is lion-tailed ma- Select the correct answer using the codes given caque found in its natural habitat? below. 1. Tamil Nadu 2. Kerala (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2, 4 and 5 only 3. Karnataka 4. Andhra Pradesh (c) 1,3 and 5 only (d) None Select the correct answer using the codes given below: codes 25. Consider the following Animals (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 2 only 1. Sea cow 2. Sea horse (c) 1, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 3. Sea lion 20. Which one of the following terms describes not only Which of the above is / are mammal/mammals? the physical space occupied by an organism, but also (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 3 only its functional role in the community of organisms? (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1,2 and 3 (a) Ecotone (b) Ecological niche (c) Habitat (d) Home range 26. With Reference to the usefulness of the by-products of sugar industry, which of the following statements 21. Photochemical smog is a resultant of the reaction is/are correct? among (a) NO2, O3 and peroxyacetyl nitrate in the presence of 1. Begasse can be used as biomass fuel for the gen- sunlinght eration of energy (b) CO, O2 and peroxyacetyl nitrate in the presence of 2. Molasses can be used as one of the feedstocks for sunlight the production of synthetic chemical fertilizers. (c) CO, CO2 and NO2 at low temperature 3. Molasses can be used for the production of (d) high concentration of NO2 O3 and CO in the evening ethanol. 22. Recombinant DNA technology (Genetic Engineering) Select the correct answer using the codes given allows genes to be transferred below 1. across different species of plants (a) only (b) and 3 only 2. from animals to plants (c) and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 3. from microorganisms to higher organisms 27. Consider the following pairs: Select the correct answer using the codes given below. 1. Nokrek Bio-sphere Reserve : Garo Hills (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 2. Logtak (Loktak) Lake : Barail Range 23. Consider the following: 3. Namdapha National Park : Dafla Hills 1. Star tortoise 2. Monitor lizard Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched? 3. Pygmy hog 4. Spider monkey (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only Which of the above are naturally found in India? (c) 1, 2 and 3 (d) None (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 2 and 3 only 28. In the grasslands, trees do not replace the grasses (c) 1 and 4 only (d) 1, 2 3 and 4 as a part of an ecological succession because of 24. Which of the following can be found as pollutants in (a) Insects and fungi the drinking water in some parts of India? 1. Arsenic 2. Sorbitol (b) Limited sunlight and paucity of nutrients 3. Fluoride 4. Formaldehyde (c) Water limits and fire 5. Uranium (d) None of the above All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing. xxi  SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT 29. Which of the following is the correct sequence of 30. Contour bunding is a method of soil conservation ecosystems in the order of decreasing productivity? used in (a) Oceans, lakes, grasslands, mangroves (a) Desert margins, liable to strong wind action (b) Mangroves, oceans, grasslands, lakes (b) Low flat plains, close to stream course, liable to flooding (c) Mangroves, grasslands, lakes, oceans (c) Scrublands, liable to spread of weed growth (d) Oceans, mangroves, lakes, grasslands. (d) None of the above 2013 - Answers 1(d) 2(c) 3(d) 4(c) 5(d) 6(d) 7(b) 8(d) 9(c) 10(b) 11(d) 12(c) 13(b) 14(d) 15{a (or) (d) doubt} 16(d) 17(b) 18(c) 19(a) 20(b) 21(a) 22(d) 23(a) 24(c) 25(b) 26(c) 27(a) 29(c) 30(d) 28(c)  xxii All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing.  SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT 2014 QUESTION PAPER ENVIRONMENTAL ECOLOGY, 3. Gulf of Mannar BIODIVERSITY, CLIMATE CHANGE, ACT 4. Sunderbans & POLICIES, CURRENT AFFAIRS AND Select the correct answer using the code given below. MAP BASED QUESTIONS (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 2 and 4 only 1. With reference to ‘Eco-Sensitive Zones’, which of the (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 following statements is/are correct? 5. In India, the problem of soil erosion is associated 1. Eco-Sensitive Zones are the areas that are declared with which of the following? under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. 1. Terrace cultivation 2. The purpose of the declaration of Eco-Sensitive 2. Deforestation Zones is to prohibit all kinds of human activities in 3. Tropical Climate those zones except agriculture. Select the correct answer using the code given below Select the correct answer using the code given below. (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 6. Consider the following Pairs: 2. Consider the following statements: Wetlands Confluence of rivers 1. Animal Welfare Board of India is established under 1. Harike Wetlands : Confluence of Beas and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Satluj / Sutlej 2. National Tiger Conservation Authority is a statutory 2. Keoladeo Ghana : Confluence of National Park body. Banas and Chambal 3. National Ganga River Basin Authority is chaired by 3. Kolleru Lake : Confluence of Musi and the Prime Minister. Krishna Which of the statements given above is/are correct? Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched? (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 (c) 2 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 3. There is some concern regarding the nanoparticles 7. The most important strategy for the conservation of of some chemical elements that are used by the in- biodiversity together with traditional human life is dustry in the manufacture of various products. the establishment of Why? (a) biosphere reserves 1. They can accumulate in the environment, and con- (b) botanical gardens taminate water and soil. (c) national parks 2. They can enter the food chains. (d) wildlife sanctuaries 3. They can trigger the production of free radicals. 8. The scientific view is that the increase in global tem- Select the correct answer using the code given below. perature should not exceed 2°C above pre-industrial (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only level. If the global temperature increases beyond 3°C above the pre-industrial level, what can be its pos- (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 sible impact/impacts on the world? 4. Which of the following have coral reefs? 1. Terrestrial biosphere tends toward a net carbon 1. Andaman and Nicobar Islands source 2. Gulf of Kachchh 2. Widespread coral mortality will occur All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing. xxiii  SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT 3. All the global wetlands will permanently disappear. 13. Every year, a month long ecologically important 4. Cultivation of cereals will not be possible anywhere campaign / festival is held during which certain in the world communities / tribes plant saplings of fruit-bearing trees. Which of the following are such communities Select the correct answer using the code given below: / tribes? (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (a) Bhutia and Lepcha (c) 2, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 (b) Gond and Korku 9. What are the benefits of implementing the Inte- (c) Irula and Toda grated Watershed Development Programme? (d) Sahariya and Agariya 1. Prevention of soil runoff 14. With reference to two non-conventional energy 2. Linking the country’s perennial rivers with sea- sources called ‘coalbed methane’ and ‘shale gas’, sonal rivers consider the following statements: 3. Rainwater harvesting and recharge of groundwater table. 1. Coalbed methane is the pure methane gas extracted from coal seams, while shale gas is a mixture of 4. Regeneration of natural vegetation. propane and butane only that can be extracted from Select the correct answer using the code given below: fine-grained sedimentary rocks. (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2, 3 and 4 only 2. In India, abundant coalbed methane sources exist, (c) 1, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 but so far no shale gas sources have been found. 10. Lichens, which are capable of initiating ecological Which of the statements given above is / are correct? succession even on a bare rock, are actually a sym- (a) 1 only (b) 2 only biotic association of (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 (a) algae and bacteria 15. In India, cluster bean (Guar) is traditionally used as (b) algae and fungi a vegetable or animal feed, but recently the cultiva- (c) bacteria and fungi tion of this has assumed significance. Which one of (d) fungi and mosses the following statements is correct in this context? (a) The oil extracted from seeds is used in the manu- 11. If you travel through the Himalayas, you are likely facture of biodegradable plastics to see which of the following plants naturally grow- ing there? (b) The gun made from its seeds is used in the extrac- tion of shale gas 1. Oak 2. Rhododendron (c) The leaf extract of this plant has the properties of 3. Sandalwood anti-histamines Select the correct answer using the code given below. (d) It is a source of high quality biodiesel (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only 16. With reference to Neem tree, consider the following (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 statements: 12. Which of the following are some important pollut- 1. Neem oil can be used as a pesticide to control the ants released by steel industry in India? proliferation of some species of insects and mites. 1. Oxides of sulphur 2. Neem seeds are used in the manufacture of biofuels 2. Oxides of nitrogen and hospital detergents. 3. Carbon monoxide 3. Neem oil has applications in pharmaceutical indus- 4. Carbon dioxide try. Select the correct answer using the code given below. Which of the statements given above is / are correct? (a) 1, 3 and 4 only (b) 2 and 3 only (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 1 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 xxiv All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing.  SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT 17. Which one of the following is the process involved 3. It is a movement to raise the awareness about the in photosynthesis? climate change and the need to save the planet. (a) Potential energy is released to form free energy Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (b) Free energy is converted into potential energy and (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only stored (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 (c) Food is oxidized to release carbon dioxide and water 22. Which one of the following is the correct sequence (d) Oxygen is taken, and carbon dioxide and water va- of a food chain? pour are given out (a) Diatoms-Crustaceans-Herrings. 18. Which of the following statements is / are correct (b) Crustaceans-Diatoms-Herrings. regarding vegetative propagation of plants? (c) Diatoms-Herrings-Crustaceans. 1. Vegetative propagation produces clonal population. (d) Crustaceans-Herrings-Diatoms. 2. Vegetative propagation helps in eliminating the virus. 23. What are the significances of a practical approach 3. Vegetative propagation can be practiced most of the to sugarcane production known as ‘Sustainable Sug- year. arcane Initiative’? Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1. Seed cost is very low in this compared to the con- ventional method of cultivation. (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only 2. Drip irrigation can be practiced very effectively in (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 this. 19. Among the following organisms, which one does not 3. There is no application of chemical/inorganic ferti- belong to the class of other three? lizers at all in this. (a) Crab (b) Mite 4. The scope for inter cropping is more in this com- (c) Scorpion (d) Spider pared to the conventional method of cultivation. 20. Consider the following international agreements: Select the correct answer using the code given below. 1. The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 1, 2 and 4 only for Food and Agriculture. (c) 2, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 2. The United Nations Convention to Combat Deserti- 24. If a wetland of international importance is brought fication. under the ‘Montreux Record’, what does it imply? 3. The World Heritage Convention. (a) Changes in ecological character have occurred, are Which of the above has/have a bearing on the occurring or are likely to occur in the wetland as a biodiversity? result of human interference. (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (b) The country in which the wetland is located should (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 enact a law to prohibit any human activity within five kilometers from the edge of the wetland. 21. Consider the following statements regarding ‘Earth Hour’ (c) The survival of the wetland depends on the cultural practices and traditions of certain communities liv- 1. It is an initiative of UNEP and UNESCO. ing in its vicinity and therefore the cultural diver- 2. It is a movement in which the participants switch sity therein should not be destroyed. off the lights for one hour on a certain day every (d) It is given the status of ‘World Heritage Site’. year. All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing. xxv  SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT 25. With reference to Bombay Natural History Society Select the correct answer using the code given below: (BNHS), consider the following statements: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only 1. It is an autonomous organization under the Minis- (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 try of Environment and Forests. 29. Which of the following phenomena might have in- 2. It strives to conserve nature through action based fluenced the evolution of organisms? research, education and public awareness. 1. Continental drift 2. Glacial cycles 3. It organizes and conducts nature trails and camps Select the correct answer using the code given below. for the general public. (a) 1 only (b) 2 only Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only 30. Other than poaching, what are the possible reasons (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 for the decline in the population of Ganges River 26. With reference to ‘Global Environment Facility’, Dolphins? which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. Construction of dams and barrages on rivers. (a) It serves as financial mechanism for ‘Convention on 2. Increase in the population of crocodiles in rivers. Biological Diversity’ and ‘United Nations Frame- 3. Getting trapped in fishing nets accidentally. work Convention on Cliamte Change’. 4. Use of synthetic fertilizers and other agricultural (b) It undertakes scientific research on environmental chemicals in crop-fields in the vicinity of rivers. issues at global level. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (c) It is an agency under OECD to facilitate the transfer (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only of technology and funds to underdeveloped coun- (c) 1, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 tries with specific aim to protect their environment. 31. Brominated flame retardants are used in many (d) Both (a) and (b). household products like mattresses and upholstery. 27. Consider the following pairs: Why is there some concern about their use? 1. Dampa Tiger Reserve : Mizoram 1. They are highly resistant to degradation in the en- 2. Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary : Sikkim vironment. 2. They are able to accumulate in humans and animals. 3. Saramati Peak : Nagaland Select the correct answer using the code given below. Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 32. Consider the following: 28. With reference to a conservation organization called 1. Bats 2. Bears ‘Wetlands International’, which of the following statements is/are correct? 3. Rodents 1. It is an intergovernmental organization formed by The phenomenon of hibernation can be observed in which of the above kinds of animals? the countries which are signatories to Ramsar Con- vention. (a) 1 and 2 only 2. It works at the field level to develop and mobilize (b) 2 only knowledge, and use the practical experience to ad- (c) 1, 2 and 3 vocate for better policies. (d) Hibernation cannot be observed in any of the above. xxvi All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing.  SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT 33. Which of the following adds/add carbon dioxide to 34. If you walk through countryside, you are likely to see the carbon cycle on the planet Earth? some birds stalking alongside the cattle to seize the 1. Volcanic action 2. Respiration insects disturbed by their movement through grasses. Which of the following is / are such bird/birds? 3. Photosynthesis 1. Painted Stork 2. Common Myna 4. Decay of organic matter 3. Black-necked Crane Select the correct answer using the code given below. Select the correct answer using the code given below. (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 only (c) 1, 2 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 (c) 2 and 3 (d) 3 only 2014 - Answers 1(d) 2(b) 3(d) 4(a) 5(b) 6(a) 7(a) 8(b) 9(c) 10(b) 11(a) 12(d) 13(b) 14(d) 15(b) 16(c) 17(b) 18(c) 19(a) 20(d) 21(c) 22(a) 23(b) 24(a) 25(c) 26(a) 27(c) 28(b) 29(c) 30(c) 31(c) 32(c) 33(c) 34(b)  All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing. xxvii  SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT 2015 QUESTION PAPER 1. Which one of the following National Parks has a 5. In India, in which one of the following types of for- climate that varies from tropical to subtropical, tem- ests is teak a dominant tree species? perate and arctic? a) Tropical moist deciduous forest a) Khangchendzonga National park b) Tropical rain forest b) Nandadevi National Park c) Tropical thorn scrub forest c) Neora Valley National Park d) Temperate forest with grasslands d) Namdapha National park 2. ‘BioCarbon Fund Initiative for Sustainable Forest 6. Which one of the following is the best description of Landscapes’ is managed by the the term “ecosystem”? (a) Asian Development Bank a) A community of organisms interacting with one (b) International Monetary Fund another (c) United Nations Environment Programme b) That part of the Earth which is inhabited by living (d) World Bank organisms c) A community of organisms together with the envi- 3. The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee is ronment in which they live. constituted under the (a) Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 d) The flora and fauna of a geographical area. (b) Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration 7. H1N1 virus is sometimes mentioned in the news with and Protection) Act, 1999 reference to which one of the following diseases? (c) Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 (a) AIDS (b) Bird flu (d) Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 (c) Dengue (d) swine flu 4. With reference to ‘Forest Carbon Partnership Facil- 8. Which of the following National Parks is unique in ity’, which of the following statements is/are cor- being a swamp with floating vegetation that sup- rect? ports a rich biodiversity? 1. It is global partnership of governments, businesses, a) Bhitarkanika National Park civil society and indigenous peoples b) Keibul Lamjao National Park 2. It provides financial aid to universities, individual scientists and institutions involved in scientific for- c) Keoladeo Ghana National park estry research to develop eco-friendly and climate d) Sultanpur National park adaptation technologies for sustainable forest man- 9. With reference to the International Union for Con- agement servation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) 3. It assists the countries in their ‘REDD+ (Reducing and the Convention on International Trade in En- Emission from Deforestation and Forest Degrada- dangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), tion+)’ efforts by providing them with financial and which of the following statements is/are correct? technical assistance. 1. IUCN is an organ of the United Nations and CITES Select the correct answer using the code given is an international agreement between govern- below ments a) 1 only b) 2 and 3 only 2. IUCN runs thousands of field projects around the c) 1 and 3 only d) 1, 2 and 3 world to better manage natural environments. xxviii All Rights Reserved. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without permission in writing.  SHANKAR IAS ACADEMY ENVIRONMENT 3. CITES is legally binding on the States that have 13. Which one of the following regions of India has a joined it, but this Convention does not take the place combination of mangrove forest, evergreen forest of national laws. and deciduous forest? Select the correct answer using the code given below. a) North Coastal Andhra Pradesh a) 1 only b) 2 and 3 only b) South-West Bengal c) 1 and 3 only d) 1, 2 and 3 c) Southern Saurashtra d) Andaman and Nicobar Islands 10. With reference to ‘fly ash’ produced by the power plants using the coal as fuel, which of the following 14. Which one of the following is associated with the statements is/are correct? issue of control and phasing out of the use of ozone- 1. Fly ash can be used in the production of bricks for depleting substances? building construction a) Bretton Woods Conference 2. Fly ash can be used as a replacement for some of b) Montreal Protocol the Portland cement contents of concrete c) Kyoto Protocol 3. Fly ash is made up of silicon dioxide and calcium d) Nagoya Protocol oxide only, and does not contain any toxic elements. 15. What is Rio+20 Conference, often mentioned in the Select the correct answer using the code given below news? a) 1 and 2 b) 2 only a) It is the United nations Conference on Sustainable c) 1 and 3 d) 3 only Development 11. With reference to ‘dugong’, a mammal found in b) It is a Ministerial Meeting of the World Trade Or- India, which of the following statements is/are cor- ganization rect? c) It is a Conference of the Inter-governmental Panel 1. It is a herbivorous marine animal. on Climate Change 2. It is found along the entire coast of India d) It is a Conference of the Member Countries of the 3. It is given legal protection under Schedule 1 of the Convention on Biological Diversity Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Select the correct answer using the code given below. 16. Which of the following statements regarding ‘Green Climate Fund’ is/are correct? a) 1 and 2 b) 2 only 1. It is intended to assist the developing countries in c) 1 and 3 d) 3 only adaptation and mitigation practices to counter cli- 12. Which one of the following is the national aquatic mate change. animal of India? 2. It is founded under the aegis of UNEP, OECD, Asian a)Saltwater crocodile Development Bank and World Bank b) Olive ridley turtle Select the correct answer using the code given below. c) Gangetic