Daily
250 words
5/10
Rating

26 June 2026

Biodiversity documentation in Satara

This topic provides an excellent case study on community-led conservation and the reclassification of 'wastelands' for biodiversity, which can be used as illustrative evidence in GS3 environment and GS2 development process answers.

1 min read 2 questions 2 prelims

Notes

  • Kiraksal village in Satara, Maharashtra, documented 606 species through a community-led survey under the Kiraksal Conservation Project.
  • Species documented include 212 birds, 34 herpetofauna, 160 vascular plants, 18 mammals, and 295 floral species in the Kukudwad forest landscape.
  • The area serves as a breeding stronghold for the Indian grey wolf, Bengal fox, striped hyena, and golden jackal.
  • The project utilized camera traps, GIS mapping, and local traditional knowledge to monitor wildlife.
  • The study challenges the colonial classification of Maan taluka as 'wasteland,' identifying it as a vital open natural ecosystem covering 25.6% of the district.
  • Local community conservation efforts include a 'tri-system' of prohibitions: kurhad bandi (axe ban), shikar bandi (hunting ban), and vanva bandi (forest fire ban).
  • A proposal has been submitted to the Satara Forest Division to designate 23 villages across 4,793 hectares as a 'Mandesh Conservation Reserve'.
  • The project was funded by WWF India and findings were shared with the Maharashtra Forest Department.

Questions

  1. Discuss the significance of community-led conservation models in protecting biodiversity in open natural ecosystems, with reference to the Kiraksal model in Maharashtra. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. The classification of 'wastelands' in India often overlooks the ecological importance of open natural ecosystems. Critically analyze this statement in the context of biodiversity conservation and the need for re-evaluating land-use policies. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. The 'tri-system' of social prohibitions (kurhad bandi, shikar bandi, and vanva bandi) is a community-led conservation practice primarily aimed at:

  2. Which of the following species is identified as a breeding stronghold in the Kiraksal region of Satara?

Syllabus

Topics

Sources

250words.in · https://250words.in/daily/2026-06-26/biodiversity-documentation-in-satara