HN

Harsh NeharaAIR 74

Question 14GS1GS1

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)

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AnswerStrengthsGapsKeywords

Introduction

[Shola forests] are dense forests in the upper reaches of Western Ghats surrounded by Grasslands

15 words

Main Body

[Features of Shola forest]

Dense Canopy of treesPersistent Cloud Cover.

Found at high Altitudes.

Persistent Cover of Clouds over the area.

Loamy Soil with moderate pH level.

Limited or no dry Season.

[Ecological Significance of Forests (Shola)]

1Orographic Uplift of high Precipitation
2Valley like depression to attract Clouds
3High Level of humidity through... ut the year.
4Loamy Soil with moderate pH level.
5Limited or no dry Season.

[Ecological Significance of Forests (Shola)]

1Regulation of water cycle in the region.
2Provide stability to soil structure.
3High Level of endemism of home to threatened flora of fauna by Nilgiri tahr.
4Cultural Significance as sacred groves by Kerala.
5Resources for PJT like Toddy, Kerala.
6Maintain Level of soil organic carbon.
7Acts as a Carbon Sink to mitigate Climate Change.

Threats faced by Shola

1Destruction due to plantation agriculture by Coffee, Tea.
2Alien species replacing native plants by Threatened Neelkurinji.
3Deforestation for timber & other resources.
4Changing patterns of precipitation due to Climate Change by Negative Indian Ocean dipole.

[Shola Needed]

(A) Status as Eco-sensitive zones by Cloydh forest.

(B) Limit number of tourists by Duty taken System.

(C) Community engagement in management by Poda.

209 words24 paragraphs

Conclusion

To ensure sustainable Western Ghats, Sholas need greater protection.

9 words

Diagram

Features of Shola forest showing relationships between Grasslands, Dense Canopy, Shola forest, and Granite

  • Clear structural organization of geographical conditions
  • Includes visual diagram for clarity
  • Identifies multiple ecological functions
  • Good use of technical geographical terms

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Page 35

Topper

Harsh Nehara

AIR 74

Subject & Paper

GS1GS1

Topic

Important Geophysical Phenomena

Geographical Features

Shola Forests of Western Ghats

Writing Stats

233

Total words

24

Paragraphs

descriptive-analytical

Tone