Presently in the spotlight, the Centre is urging the Supreme Court to instruct 13 Himalayan states of India to evaluate their ‘carrying capacity’. The central government also proposes the establishment of an expert panel to review the action plans submitted by these states. This critical initiative is aimed at ensuring the sustainable development and protection of the delicate Himalayan ecosystem.
Understanding Carrying Capacity
The term ‘carrying capacity’ refers to the maximum population size that an ecosystem or environment can sustainably support over a specific timeframe without causing significant damage or harm to its natural resources and general health. Assessing carrying capacity is vital for understanding and managing the equilibrium between human activities and the preservation of natural ecosystems, thus guaranteeing long-term sustainability.
Government Initiatives Focused on Himalayan Conservation
Numerous initiatives have been launched by the Government of India to safeguard the Himalayan region. These include the National Mission on Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem implemented in 2010, encompassing 11 states and 2 Union Territories. This mission forms part of the broader National Action Plan on Climate Change.
Another notable initiative is the Indian Himalayas Climate Adaptation Programme, which seeks to bolster the resilience of vulnerable communities within the Indian Himalayas. It aims to strengthen the capacities of Indian institutions in climate science, with particular emphasis on glaciology and related areas.
Additionally, the SECURE Himalaya Project forms an integral part of the “Global Partnership on Wildlife Conservation and Crime Prevention for Sustainable Development” funded by the Global Environment Facility. This project concentrates on promoting the sustainable management of alpine pastures and forests in the high-range Himalayan ecosystems.
One should also not forget the 1976 Mishra Committee Report, named after the then Garhwal commissioner in erstwhile Uttar Pradesh, M.C. Mishra. This report provided insight into land subsidence in Joshimath and recommended imposing restrictions on heavy construction work, blasting, excavation for road repairs and other construction activities, and tree felling in the region.
UPSC Civil Services Examination and the Himalayan Region
Over the years, the Himalayan region has prominently featured in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination. In recent Prelims and Mains examinations, aspirants had to answer numerous questions revolving around the characteristics of the Himalayas – from the geographical attributes of its distinct peaks to the causes of landslides in the region. Future candidates are thus advised to study this topic thoroughly.
Melting of Himalayan Glaciers: A Cause for Concern
The melting of Himalayan glaciers poses a significant threat to the water resources of India. With these glaciers serving as a vital water source for the country’s river systems, their accelerated melting due to climate change could potentially result in a severe water crisis. Consequently, the sustainable management and preservation of the Himalayan ecosystem is not only crucial from an environmental perspective but also from a socio-economic standpoint.
The Himalayan Landscape: Prone to Landslides
Due to the unique geological formation and climatic conditions of the Himalayan region, it is highly susceptible to landslides. Overexploitation of natural resources, deforestation, and improper land-use practices are some of the key human-induced factors contributing to this vulnerability. Effective mitigation measures, such as stringent environmental regulations, improved land-use planning, and afforestation, need to be implemented.
With a practical understanding of carrying capacity and strategic government initiatives, the conservation of the Himalayan region is something that can be well-managed and sustained for generations to come. The relevance of this topic extends beyond environmental conservationism, reflecting socio-economic implications and playing a significant role in competitive examinations like the UPSC.