Resources and Development | Long Answer Type Questions

Long Answer Type Questions

Q.1 What is resource planning? Explain why resource planning is essential in India.

Answer: Resource planning is a systematic process of identifying, using and conserving resources in a planned and sustainable manner. It involves surveying resources, developing appropriate technology and implementing proper planning.

Resource planning is essential in India because resources are limited but the demand is very high due to a large population. Also, resources are unevenly distributed across regions, so some areas have plenty while others face shortages. Without proper planning, resources may be overused, leading to depletion and environmental damage. Resource planning helps in judicious use, conservation, and balanced development of all regions. It also ensures that resources are available for both present and future generations, supporting sustainable development.

Q.2 “Resources are vital for development, but overuse can be harmful.” Explain with examples.

Answer: Resources are essential for development because they provide raw materials, energy and land for agriculture, industries, transport and daily needs. However, overuse of resources can cause serious harm.

i) Excessive use of groundwater for irrigation lowers the water table and creates water scarcity.

ii) Over-mining of minerals damages land, causes pollution and destroys forests.

iii) Cutting forests for farming or industries leads to soil erosion, floods and loss of biodiversity.

iv) Overuse of chemical fertilisers and pesticides reduces soil fertility and pollutes water bodies.

v) Rapid use of fossil fuels increases air pollution and causes global warming.

Therefore, resources must be used carefully, conserved and managed through proper planning so that development remains sustainable for present and future generations.

Q.3 Describe the three stages of resource planning.

Answer: Resource planning is carried out in three main stages.

First, a country identifies and lists its resources by doing surveys, mapping and estimation. This includes studying the type, quantity, quality and location of resources.

Second, a planning structure is prepared to use these resources properly. It involves making a suitable plan, using appropriate technology and creating institutions to implement the plan.

Third, the resource development plan is linked or matched with overall national development plans. This ensures balanced development of different regions and proper use of resources along with economic growth. These stages help in using resources wisely, reducing wastage and conserving them for the future.

Q.4 What is land degradation? Explain its causes and suggest measures to control it.

Answer: Land degradation means the decline in the quality and productivity of land due to natural processes and human activities. It makes land less fertile and unsuitable for farming and other uses.

There are several reasons for land degradation such as deforestation, overgrazing, mining and quarrying, over-irrigation that leads to waterlogging and salinity, and excessive use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides. Industrial wastes and improper disposal of garbage also degrade land.

To control land degradation, we should plant more trees and prevent deforestation, regulate grazing, and use land in a planned way. Mining areas should be reclaimed by levelling, refilling and afforestation. Proper irrigation methods like drip irrigation and drainage can reduce salinity and waterlogging. Using organic manure, crop rotation and treating industrial wastes before discharge also helps in restoring land quality.

Q.5 Explain the major causes of soil erosion in India. Also suggest measures to prevent it.

Answer: Soil erosion means the removal of the top fertile layer of soil by wind or water. In India, the major causes include deforestation, over grazing, over irrigation etc.

Major causes of soil erosion in India are:-

• Deforestation is a major cause because cutting trees removes the protective cover, and wind and rain easily carry away the topsoil.
• Overgrazing causes soil erosion because animals remove the grass cover, which leaves the soil loose and exposed to wind and flowing water.
• Over-irrigation damages soil by causing waterlogging and salinity, which reduces soil fertility and weakens the soil, making the land more degraded and unproductive.

Measures to prevent soil erosion

• Afforestation and planting grasses should be done to bind the soil and reduce the impact of wind and rain.
• Grazing should be controlled and pasture lands should be developed to protect the grass cover.
• Farmers should practise contour ploughing, terrace farming and strip cropping to reduce soil loss on slopes.
• Small check dams, bunds and gully plugs should be built to slow down water flow and stop soil from being washed away.
• Shelter belts should be planted in dry areas, and mining lands should be reclaimed by levelling and planting trees.

Q.6 Differentiate between renewable and non-renewable resources with suitable examples.