A Community Conserved Area (CCA) refers to a region that is preserved by local communities for various reasons, such as cultural importance, biodiversity, and ecosystem services. These areas play a vital role in sustaining the environment and empowering local populations.
As of November 2023, India boasts 220 community reserves, collectively covering an area of 1,455.16 square kilometers. This represents approximately 0.04% of the nation's total geographical area, highlighting the commitment of local communities to conservation efforts.
CCAs signify a groundbreaking development in Indian legislation, marking the first occasion where private land is accorded protection. This legal framework enables the establishment of community-owned wildlife resorts and encourages conservation initiatives by non-profit organizations.
The primary objectives of CCAs include conserving biodiversity, ensuring the sustainability of ecosystem services, and aiding in climate change mitigation. These areas serve as crucial habitats for various species while supporting the ecological balance.
Despite their significance, CCAs encounter numerous challenges. They often grapple with both internal and external pressures, are frequently overlooked in governmental conservation policies, and some face the risk of degradation due to various factors, including development activities.
Community reserves in India can be found in diverse states such as Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana, Karnataka, and Kerala. Each of these regions showcases unique conservation efforts tailored to local cultures and ecosystems.
Many CCAs incorporate distinctive cultural practices. For instance, the Bishnoi community is renowned for its wildlife conservation traditions. Additionally, sacred groves are often managed by local tribal councils or gram sabhas, emphasizing the integration of cultural values in conservation.
Q1. What is the main function of Community Conserved Areas?
Answer: The main function of CCAs is to conserve biodiversity, maintain ecosystem services, and support local cultural practices, contributing to environmental sustainability.
Q2. How do CCAs contribute to climate change mitigation?
Answer: CCAs help in climate change mitigation by preserving important ecosystems, which act as carbon sinks and promote biodiversity, thereby enhancing resilience to climate impacts.
Q3. What legal protections do CCAs receive in India?
Answer: In India, CCAs are legally recognized as protected areas, allowing for community management of wildlife and enabling the establishment of conservation initiatives on private lands.
Q4. What are some challenges faced by CCAs in India?
Answer: CCAs face challenges such as being overlooked by government policies, internal conflicts within communities, and external pressures from development activities that threaten their integrity.
Q5. Can you name any specific community reserves in India?
Answer: Yes, specific community reserves in India include areas located in Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana, Karnataka, and Kerala, each demonstrating unique conservation practices.
Question 1: What does CCA stand for in environmental conservation?
A) Community Conservation Area
B) Community Conserved Area
C) Conservation Community Area
D) Community Cultural Area
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: How many community reserves are there in India as of November 2023?
A) 150
B) 220
C) 300
D) 400
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: Which community is known for its wildlife conservation traditions in India?
A) Bhil
B) Bishnoi
C) Santhal
D) Gonds
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What percentage of India's geographical area is covered by community reserves?
A) 0.01%
B) 0.04%
C) 0.1%
D) 0.2%
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What is a primary purpose of CCAs?
A) Increase tourism
B) Conserve biodiversity
C) Promote urban development
D) Expand agricultural land
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: Which state in India has a notable CCA involving sacred groves?
A) Punjab
B) Kerala
C) Tamil Nadu
D) Gujarat
Correct Answer: B
Question 7: What is a significant challenge faced by CCAs in India?
A) Overfunding
B) Government support
C) Development pressures
D) Increased biodiversity
Correct Answer: C
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