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Q1: What changes can you make in your habits to become more environment-friendly?

Ans: Changes that we can make in our habits to become more environment-friendly are –

1. Switch off lights and fans when not in use.
2. Use public transport, cycle, or walk instead of private vehicles.
3. Avoid plastic bags; use cloth or jute bags.
4. Reuse and recycle household items.
5. Save water while brushing, bathing, and washing.

Q2: What would be the advantages of exploiting resources with short-term aims?

Ans: Advantages of exploiting resources with short-term aims are-

1. Immediate economic gain.
2. Quick development and industrial growth.
3. Job creation in the short run.

Q3: How would these advantages differ from the advantages of using a long-term perspective in managing our resources?

Ans: Advantages of using a long-term perspective in managing our resources are-

1. Short-term use leads to fast depletion and environmental damage.
2. Long-term perspective ensures sustainable development, conservation, and availability of resources for future generations.

Q4: Why do you think there should be equitable distribution of resources? What forces would be working against an equitable distribution of our resources?

Ans: Reasons for equitable distribution are :

1. Ensures basic needs (like water, food, fuel) are met for everyone.
2. Reduces poverty and inequality in society.
3. Promotes sustainable development and peace.
4. Prevents exploitation and overuse by a few individuals or groups.

Forces working against equitable distribution are :

1. Greed and overconsumption by wealthy individuals and nations.
2. Corruption and mismanagement of resources.
3. Lack of proper policies and implementation by the government.
4. Social inequality and lack of awareness among people.

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Q1: Why should we conserve forests and wildlife?

Ans: We shoul conserve forest and wildlife because of the following reasons-

1. They maintain ecological balance and biodiversity.
2. Forests prevent soil erosion and regulate climate.
3. Wildlife is essential for food chains and natural ecosystems.

Q2: Suggest some approaches towards the conservation of forests.

Ans: Our approach towards the conservation of forests should be-

1. Afforestation and reforestation.
2. Prevent illegal logging and poaching.
3. Promote social forestry and community participation.
4. Use forest resources sustainably.
5. Implement strict environmental laws.

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Q1: Find out about the traditional systems of water harvesting/management in your region.

Ans: In Assam and nearby regions, traditional water harvesting systems include:

1. Ponds (Pukhuri) – Dug near homes to store rainwater for irrigation, cattle, and fish farming.
2. Bamboo drip irrigation – Used in hilly areas to carry water from springs to fields with minimal waste.
3. Earthen embankments – Built in flood-prone areas to control excess water and protect fields.

Q2: Compare the above system with the probable systems in hilly/mountainous areas or plains or plateau regions.

Ans:

Q3: Find out the source of water in your region/locality. Is water from this source available to all people living in that area?

Ans: Main source of water is Groundwater and river water. Its availability varies where some rural/poor areas face water shortage or irregular supply.