Evaluate the role of protected areas in biodiversity conservation in India. How effective have national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves been in preserving India's biodiversity?

Protected areas are defined under the Wildlife Protection Act 1976 and play significant role in the conservation of biodiversity.

[Diagram showing types of Protected areas: Biosphere Reserves, National Parks, Wildlife sanctuaries]

Role of protected areas in biodiversity conservation:

i) Provides for the protection of existing habitats of these areas from activities such as mining and agriculture.

ii) Focus on the Key species – endangered for their protection.

(e.g. Nandlatha National Park in Arunachal Pradesh for flying guirrels)

iii) Protection of endangered species such as Golden langur, Hangul and Lion tailed Macaque.

iv) Protects areas from deforestation and similar activities.

v) Lowers the interference and interaction of human in these areas – reduction in non-armed conflict.