Question 14DiscussGS1GS1
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)
Introduction
Shola forests of western ghats encompass the nilgiri hills at intersection of karnataka, kerala and Tamil Nadu.
17 words
Main Body
Geographical conditions responsible
1Intersection of eastern and western ghats, providing high rainfall region (eg) SW Monsoon
2Passes (eg) Palghat pass, allowing easy passage of Monsoon winds.
3Impact of NE winds - during the retreating Monsoon season, allowing for year round availability of rain
4Close to equator -> leading to huge biodiversity and equatorial type of climate
(Ecological Significance of Shola forests)
1Huge biodiversity - due to favourable equatorial climate (eg) Nilgiri Tahr
2Habitat for tribals - promoting community participation for preservation of forests
3Regulation of climate - due to presence of coastal impact of weather
4Prevent land degradation - due
to overgrazing or by soil erosion, protecting the environment
5Prevent impact of disasters (eg) landslides, flood, reducing loss of human and ecological capital
Challenges ->
deforestation - for development activities
Climate change - extreme weather events, causing biodiversity loss
Migration of species - to upper heights, especially during summer
High rate of urbanisation for setting up of industries and for Tourism
174 words3 paragraphs4 bullet points
Conclusion
Thus, revival of shola forests in Nilgiri hills is needed to prevent this unique world heritage site.
17 words
Diagram
Diagram showing Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu converging with arrows pointing to 'Shola forests' and 'Tamil Nadu'
- Good diagram for spatial context
- Clear geographical reasoning
Topper
Rakhi
AIR 65
Subject & Paper
GS1GS1
Topic
Geography
Physical Geography
Shola forests of Western Ghats
Writing Stats
208
Total words
3
Paragraphs
4
Bullets
structured, descriptive
Tone