Test: India - Climate, Natural Vegetation, and Wildlife - Class 8 MCQ

Tropical evergreen rainforests adapt to their environment by featuring tall trees that can thrive with minimal dry periods. These forests are rich in biodiversity and support various plant and animal species, demonstrating how ecosystems can adapt to high moisture levels and consistent warmth.

Kaziranga National Park is renowned for being the habitat of the one-horned rhinoceros, making it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park's conservation efforts have led to a significant increase in the population of this unique species, showcasing successful wildlife management strategies.

The Asiatic Lion is commonly associated with the Gir Forest National Park, located in Gujarat. This park is the only natural habitat for these lions in India, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts to protect this endangered species and its ecosystem.

The 'Retreating Monsoon' occurs during the months of October and November when monsoon winds begin to withdraw from the mainland back to the Bay of Bengal. During this time, regions like Tamil Nadu and parts of Andhra Pradesh receive rainfall, marking a transition from the rainy season to winter.

The Social Forestry Programme aims to benefit rural communities by promoting tree planting on public and common land. This initiative provides firewood, fodder, and fruits, reducing pressure on existing forests and enhancing rural livelihoods through sustainable practices.

The Cold Weather Season in Northern India lasts from December to February, marked by lower temperatures ranging between 10°C and 15°C. This period is characterized by slanting sun rays that lead to cooler conditions, especially in the northern plains. It is also a crucial time for agricultural activities like wheat harvesting.

The term 'monsoon' is derived from the Arabic word 'Mausim,' which means 'season.' It signifies the seasonal wind patterns that bring heavy rainfall to the Indian subcontinent, primarily between June and September. These winds are crucial for agriculture in the region, affecting crop cycles and livelihoods.

Proximity to the North Pole is not a factor affecting India's climate. Instead, India’s climate is influenced by its location between the Tropic of Cancer and the Equator, varying altitudes, and its distance from seas and oceans, which significantly impact temperature and rainfall patterns.

The primary aim of India's National Forest Policy is to achieve a specific forest cover percentage, targeting 33% for overall forest cover and 60% for hilly areas. This policy emphasizes conservation, sustainable management, and afforestation to protect and enhance India's forest resources.

Coastal regions of Southern India experience a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by mild temperatures and significant rainfall during the monsoon season. Being surrounded by water bodies such as the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean moderates temperature extremes and supports diverse ecosystems.

Orographic rainfall occurs when moisture-laden winds are forced to rise over mountain ranges, cooling and condensing into precipitation. This phenomenon is prevalent in regions like the Western Ghats, where the windward side receives heavy rainfall while the leeward side remains dry.

The Indian government has taken significant measures to protect endangered species by establishing biosphere reserves and national parks, which provide safe habitats and promote biodiversity. Initiatives like Project Tiger and Project Rhino are aimed at ensuring the survival of specific threatened species, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts in maintaining ecological balance.

Overcrowding and increased tourism pose significant challenges to wildlife sanctuaries in India, leading to habitat degradation and increased stress on wildlife populations. While ecotourism can promote conservation awareness, it must be managed carefully to prevent adverse impacts on natural ecosystems.

Deciduous forests in India are characterized by trees that shed their leaves during dry summer and winter seasons. This adaptation helps the trees conserve water and survive in varying climatic conditions, and these forests are typically found in regions with moderate rainfall between 100-200 cm.

The Western Ghats play a crucial role in India's climate by receiving heavy rainfall during the monsoon season due to orographic effects. They create distinct climatic zones on either side, with the windward side receiving abundant rain while the leeward side remains dry.