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ভূগোলGS3
GS3

Mining Threats and Endemic Biodiversity Conservation in Odisha

Source:The Hindu ↗

কেন এটি গুরুত্বপূর্ণ

It underscores the conflict between industrial/mining projects and the preservation of rare, endemic biodiversity in ecologically fragile zones like the Eastern Ghats, a crucial topic for GS3 Environment and Biodiversity management.

সারসংক্ষেপ

A mining project in Odisha poses a severe threat to the survival of the rare Jeypore ground gecko, an endemic reptile species found in the Eastern Ghats. The article sheds light on the broader conservation challenges facing lesser-known endemic wildlife due to unmitigated industrial expansion and mining activities.

মূল বিষয়

  • A proposed mining project in Odisha threatens the habitat of the rare and endemic Jeypore ground gecko (Geckoella jeyporensis).
  • The Jeypore ground gecko is a unique reptile species restricted to specific fragmented forest patches in the Eastern Ghats, making it highly vulnerable to habitat destruction.
  • The conflict highlights the ongoing developmental versus ecological dilemma in ecologically sensitive regions like the Eastern Ghats.
  • Experts emphasize the need for stringent Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and robust protection for lesser-known endemic fauna before industrial clearances are granted.

সংযুক্ত স্থির ধারণা

Environment and Ecology - Biodiversity

What are the key ecological differences between the Western and Eastern Ghats relevant to biodiversity conservation?

  • Western Ghats:: Continuous terrain with higher rainfall and dense evergreen forests, hosting significantly higher floral and faunal endemism.
  • Eastern Ghats:: Older, highly fragmented, discontinuous hill ranges with drier deciduous forests and isolated micro-endemic pockets like gecko habitats.
  • Hotspot Status:: Classified as a global biodiversity hotspot, whereas the Eastern Ghats lack unified hotspot status despite high local endemism.

আন্তঃবিষয় প্যাটার্ন

  • Endemic Fauna vs. Industrial EIA Clearance

    UPSC frequently tests non-charismatic endemic species like the Jeypore ground gecko alongside flagship conservation projects, questioning whether EIA frameworks adequately protect micro-endemics.

Expect a matching or statement-based question on Eastern Ghats micro-endemics like the Jeypore ground gecko and its habitat vulnerabilities.

সংযুক্ত PYQ · 2

সংযুক্ত PYQ · 2

  • 2025MainsGS3

    Mineral resources are fundamental to the country's economy and these are exploited by mining. Why is mining considered an environmental hazard? Explain the remedial measures required to reduce the environmental hazard due to mining.

  • 2020PrelimsGS1

    With reference to India's biodiversity, Ceylon frogmouth, Coppersmith barbet, Gray-chinned minivet and White-throated redstart are