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Notes

Biodiversity & Conservation

Definition/Introduction

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth, encompassing the diversity of species, ecosystems, and genetic diversity. It is crucial for the stability of ecosystems and the provision of services that support life.

Constitutional Provisions

**Article 48A**: Protection and improvement of environment and safeguarding of forests and wildlife.

Part IV (Directive Principles of State Policy)

**Article 51A(g)**: It shall be the duty of every citizen of India to protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife, and to have compassion for living creatures.

Historical Evolution

The concept of biodiversity gained prominence during the 20th century with increased awareness of environmental issues. The 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro was a landmark event that highlighted the importance of biodiversity and led to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).

India ratified the CBD in 1994, recognizing the need to conserve biodiversity.

Classification/Types

1. **Species Diversity**: Refers to the number of different species in a given area.

2. **Genetic Diversity**: Variability in the genetic makeup among individuals within a species.

3. **Ecosystem Diversity**: Variety of ecosystems in a particular area, including forests, wetlands, and grasslands.

4. **Functional Diversity**: The different biological functions that the organisms in an ecosystem perform.

5. **Cultural Diversity**: Variability in cultural practices associated with biodiversity in different communities.

Important Provisions/Features

The **Biological Diversity Act, 2002** aims for the conservation of biological diversity and sustainable use of its components.

The **National Biodiversity Action Plan (NBAP)** emphasizes the importance of biodiversity conservation at national and local levels.

The **Wildlife Protection Act, 1972** provides for the protection of wild animals and plants, and establishes protected areas.

Landmark Judgments

**T. N. Godavarman Thirumulpad v. Union of India** (1996): The Supreme Court emphasized the need for strict protection of forests and wildlife, interpreting various laws to ensure environmental protection.

**M.C. Mehta v. Kamal Nath** (2000): Established that the environment is a part of the fundamental right to life under Article 21, emphasizing sustainable development.

Amendments

**44th Amendment Act, 1978**: Although primarily related to the right to property, it reinforced the importance of environmental rights within the context of development.

Comparison Tables

| Feature | Biodiversity | Conservation |

|---------------------------|------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------|

| Definition | Variety of life on Earth | Responsible management of natural resources |

| Objective | Maintain ecological balance | Prevent exploitation and destruction |

| Legislation | Biological Diversity Act, 2002 | Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 |

| Key Concept | Ecosystem stability | Sustainable use of resources |

UPSC Exam Focus

Frequently asked aspects include the importance of biodiversity, legal provisions related to it, and landmark cases.

Tricky areas often involve the differences between various environmental laws and their implications.

Key Concepts

Biodiversity - The variety of life on Earth, including the variety of species, ecosystems, and genetic diversity.

Conservation - The responsible management of natural resources to prevent exploitation, destruction, or neglect.

Article 48A - Protection and improvement of environment and safeguarding of forests and wildlife.

Article 51A(g) - Fundamental duty to protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife.

Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 - Recognizes the rights of forest-dwelling communities.

Biological Diversity Act, 2002 - Provides for the conservation of biological diversity.

National Biodiversity Action Plan (NBAP) - Launched in 2008 to protect biodiversity in India.

Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 - Provides for the protection of wild animals and plants.

Important Facts

•[2002] Biological Diversity Act enactedProvides for the conservation of biological diversity. UPSC often asks about the significance of this Act.

•[2008] National Biodiversity Action Plan launchedAims to protect biodiversity in India. Important for questions on government initiatives.

•[1972] Wildlife Protection Act enactedProvides for the protection of wild animals and plants. A common question in environmental law contexts.

•[2006] Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) ActRecognizes the rights of forest-dwelling communities. UPSC may link this to social justice themes.

•[1976] Article 48A - Protection and improvement of environmentPart of the 42nd Amendment. Often tested in questions about Directive Principles.

•[1976] Article 51A(g) - Duty to protect environmentPart of the 42nd Amendment. Frequently asked in relation to Fundamental Duties.