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23 August 2026

Elephant habitat restoration in Assam

The topic provides a practical case study on invasive species management and habitat restoration that can be used as an illustrative example in answers related to biodiversity conservation and environmental degradation.

1 min read Day 3 of 3 2 questions 2 prelims

Notes

  • Project initiated in Khalingduar Reserve Forest, Udalguri district, Assam, to restore elephant habitat.
  • Targeted invasive alien plants (IAPs) include Lantana camara, Chromolaena odorata, and Mikania micrantha.
  • IAPs compete with native vegetation for light, space, moisture, and nutrients, reducing forage for herbivores.
  • Methodology involves manual uprooting of IAPs, seed-ball-assisted regeneration, and biomass conversion.
  • Biomass is converted into biochar, a porous substance produced by heating organic waste in low-oxygen environments.
  • Biochar acts as a stable carbon sink and improves soil properties like water and nutrient retention.
  • Project supported by the International Elephant Foundation and implemented by Aaranyak.
  • Periodic monitoring is planned to prevent IAP re-emergence and ensure native plant recovery.

Part of a longer story

This is day 3 of 3 in Butterfly diversity documentation in Assam, which has been running since 5 July 2026. Reading it whole is usually worth more than reading today alone — the exam asks how something developed.

Questions

  1. Discuss the ecological challenges posed by invasive alien species in forest ecosystems and evaluate the potential of biochar production as a sustainable management strategy. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. Habitat fragmentation and the proliferation of invasive species are significant threats to megafauna in India. Examine the strategies required for effective habitat restoration in protected areas, citing the role of community-based conservation models. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. With reference to biochar, consider the following statements: 1. It is produced by heating organic waste in a low-oxygen environment. 2. It can enhance soil water and nutrient retention. 3. It is a stable form of carbon that resists decay. Which of the statements given above are correct?

  2. Which of the following plant species are identified as invasive alien plants (IAPs) in the context of Assam's forest restoration efforts?