UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

In situ conservation involves protecting species in their natural surroundings. It maintains the integrity of entire ecosystems and allows evolutionary processes to continue. National parks,sanctuaries and biosphere reserves are prime examples of this strategy. Therefore the description in the question clearly indicates in situ conservation.

Option A:
Ex situ conservation refers to protecting components of biodiversity outside their natural habitats,such as in zoos,botanical gardens and seed banks. While important,it is different from conserving species where they naturally occur. Hence it is not the correct answer for the stem.

Option B:
In situ conservation preserves not only target species but also ecological interactions and habitat conditions. It is generally considered the most effective and comprehensive method for long term biodiversity protection. This matches the statement that species are conserved within their natural habitats.

Option C:
Exponential is a mathematical term often used to describe certain growth patterns. It has no direct relevance to conservation strategies. Therefore it is clearly inappropriate here.

Option D:
Remote is a generic adjective meaning far away or distant. It does not denote any recognised conservation approach. Thus it cannot be the right choice for the concept described in the question.

The Chipko movement emerged in the Himalayan region as a people’s movement to protect forests from commercial felling. Villagers hugged trees to prevent their cutting,demonstrating non violent resistance. The struggle highlighted the ecological and livelihood importance of forests. Hence forest conservation is at the core of this movement.

Option A:
Forests were central to the livelihoods of local communities involved in Chipko. By resisting deforestation,they defended soil stability,water regulation and biodiversity. Therefore forests are the correct focus identified in the question.

Option B:
Wetlands are important ecosystems but they were not the main focus of the Chipko protests. The movement arose specifically against the indiscriminate felling of mountain forests. Thus wetlands do not match the historical context described.

Option C:
Wildlife corridors refer to landscape elements that connect fragmented habitats for animal movement. Chipko was not primarily about designing or protecting such corridors. It centred on preventing the cutting of standing forests,not connectivity planning.

Option D:
Marine fisheries concern the use and conservation of fish resources in oceans and seas. The Chipko movement took place in upland forest regions,far from marine environments. Therefore this option is clearly unrelated to the movement described in the stem.