Question 14Discuss, HighlightGS1UNKNOWN

पश्चिमी घाट के ऊंचाई वाले क्षेत्रों में शोला वनों के विकास के लिए उत्तरदायी भौगोलिक परिस्थितियों पर चर्चा कीजिए। उनके पारिस्थितिक महत्व को रेखांकित कीजिए। (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए) / Discuss the geographical conditions responsible for the development of shola forests in the upper reaches of the Western Ghats. Highlight their ecological significance. (Answer in 250 words) 15

Introduction

Shola forests in the Western Ghats are called the 'rainforests of India' precisely showing its ecological and sustainability significance. They have developed due to a myriad of factors.

28 words

Main Body

Conditions responsible for shola forests

1Altitude of the Western Ghats are such that it is not too high for icy cold conditions or too low for tropical conditions.

2Monsoons and rainfall throughout the year in the

region allows formation of evergreen plants and trees like rosewood.

3Protected area from human and animal activities predominantly due to its altitude.

4Contiguous landscape of the Western Ghats unlike Eastern Ghats allows its formation.

5Temperature range, both annual & diurnal are minimal allowing formation of sholas.

Examples of sholas

1Pampadum Shola

2Mathikettan Shola

Ecological significance of sholas

1Sources of multiple rivers due to its high altitude and rainfall.

Eg: Cauvery from Brahmagiri hills

2Large presence of endemic plants

Eg Hence they have been classified as biodiversity hotspot => Red Sanders, Mahogany

3Presence of unique species like the lion-tailed macaque & Nilgiri Tahr

4Presence of sholas is essential to maintain the orographic rainfall pattern in Kerala and nearby states

5Natural barrier against landslides in Western Ghats

173 words12 paragraphs

Conclusion

Hence the sholas need to be conserved to uphold the livelihoods of people around and for its ecological significance to climate, biodiversity & disaster resilience

25 words

Diagram

Outline map of India with Western Ghats region shaded/hatched, labeled 'FIG: WESTERN GHATS'

Clear structuring with boxed headings
Diagram included

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Page 35

Topper

Aditya Narayan

AIR 68

Subject & Paper

GS1UNKNOWN

Topic

Geography

Physical Geography of India

Shola forests - Western Ghats

Writing Stats

226

Total words

Paragraphs