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?

The Wild Life Protection Act, 1972 provides for establishment of protected areas in order to ensure bio-diversity conservation. Currently, nearly 3.2% of India's land is covered by protected areas. Role of Protected areas in Bio-diversity conservation: (1) Biota like National Parks, wildlife sanctuaries provide for exclusive undisturbed hotspots (core areas) and it helps in exclude interference for wildlife. (2) Strict punishments have been ensured for hunting and poaching of wild animals and be in various schedules. (3) Many protected areas like Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Manas Reserve, etc provide protection to diverse species as well.

and re-introduction of Cheetah in Tame National Reserve. (3) Institutional mechanisms like National Biodiversity Authority, NTCA created. Challenges faced: (1) Protected areas take exclusive approach to conservation and often this has led to displaced indigenous people, tribes and deprived them of traditional rights. For Madhasis relocated from cities, caged. (2) Man-animal conflict sighting and Elephant poaching incidents continue adding inefficient regions in rural Kerala. (3) Inadequate monitoring and Elephant poaching incidents continue adding inefficient regions in rural Kerala. Thus, results have been mixed. Further strengthening enforcement and involvement of locals is needed in biodiversity management.