Shankar IAS Test: Aquatic Ecosystem- 2 - Free MCQ with solutions for UPSC

Statement 1 is correct as the CRZ Notification (2011) does regulate development along the sea coast and tidal-influenced water bodies. Statement 2 is false because mangroves and coral reef areas are indeed included in the CRZ-1 category, which is designated for ecologically sensitive areas.

Statement 1 is correct as the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau does work on law enforcement and poaching control. Statement 2 is false because coral reefs are included in Schedule 1, not Schedule 2, of the Wild Life Protection Act, 1972, which offers them the highest degree of protection.

This statement is true. The 'Blue Flag' certification is indeed an international label that recognizes beaches and marinas for their commitment to high environmental and safety standards, as well as sustainable development in marine and freshwater environments.

CRZ-I refers to ecologically sensitive areas, CRZ-II to developed areas, CRZ-III to relatively undisturbed areas, and CRZ-IV to the aquatic area extending to territorial limits.

Statement 1 is true as NCZMA and SCZMA were indeed established under the Environmental (Protection) Act, 1986. Statement 2 is false because these authorities are not responsible for the Ganga Action Plan, which focuses on the Ganga River and not on coastal zones.

The assertion is true as coral reefs are included in Schedule 1 of the Wild Life Protection Act, 1972. The reason is also true and correctly explains the assertion, as being listed in Schedule 1 does provide the highest degree of protection.

1. Installation of weather radar for cyclone monitoring – Permissible.
This is essential for disaster management and is allowed in CRZ-I.
3. Exploration of natural gas – Permissible (with clearance).
Exploration activities are allowed in CRZ-I areas under specific environmental clearances.
4. Construction of trans-harbour sea links – Permissible.
Public infrastructure like sea links is permitted in CRZ-I, subject to environmental safeguards.
2. Construction of new residential buildings – Not Permissible.
Residential construction is not allowed in CRZ-I to protect ecologically sensitive areas

Hence, the Correct Answer - Option D

Statement 1 is true as the Ganga Action Plan was indeed launched in 1986 with the primary focus on pollution abatement. Statement 2 is false because the NGRBA was established later, under the "Mission Clean Ganga" initiative, not directly under the Ganga Action Plan.

This statement is true. The 'Namami Gange' initiative is indeed a part of the Integrated Ganga Conservation Mission, focusing on a comprehensive action plan that encompasses various aspects of Ganga conservation and enhancement, including pollution abatement and sustainable development along the river.

Statement 1 is true, as the Integrated Coastal and Marine Area Management (ICMAM) project was indeed launched in 1998 with the aim of integrated management of coastal and marine areas. Statement 2 is false because the focus of ICMAM is not solely on industrial development but rather on a broader scope of managing and conserving coastal and marine environments, including addressing pollution, ecological conservation, and sustainable development.

This statement is true. The Island Protection Zone (IPZ) Notification 2011 was specifically established to address the unique environmental and developmental challenges of island territories, distinct from the mainland coastal areas governed by the CRZ Notification.

Statement 1 is false because the NDZ has been reduced in certain cases, particularly in densely populated rural areas under CRZ-III, where it can be as low as 50 meters. Statement 2 is true, reflecting this relaxation in specific areas.

Desalination plants are permissible in CRZ-II, natural gas exploration in CRZ-I, traditional fishing activities in CRZ-IV, and construction of essential facilities in CRZ-III.

Statement 1 is true as COMAPS has been operational since 1991 for monitoring coastal water pollution. Statement 2 is false because the primary focus of COMAPS is on pollution monitoring and management, not specifically on industrial development or maritime navigation.

Both the assertion and the reason are true. The Namami Ganga Program does include riverfront development initiatives. However, the reason provided is not the sole explanation for this aspect of the program, as riverfront development also encompasses environmental and infrastructural enhancements.

Statement 1 is true as the Clean Ganga Fund is indeed intended to increase public participation in Ganga cleanup. Statement 2 is false because both domestic and foreign donors may receive tax benefits, with foreign donors potentially receiving suitable tax exemptions.

While the CRZ Notification, 2018 includes streamlining CRZ clearances, de-freezing FSI in CRZ-II areas, and establishing a hazard line, it does not mandate the creation of marine parks in all CRZ-IV areas.

This statement is true. The Wild Life Protection Act, 1972, facilitated the creation of Protected Areas such as National Parks, Sanctuaries, and Marine Biosphere Reserves, which play a crucial role in conserving marine life and habitats, including coral reefs.

This statement is true. SICOM was indeed established in 2010 and serves as the nodal agency responsible for implementing Integrated Coastal Zone Management practices, providing technical support to the National Coastal Zone Management Authority.

The correct answer is:
a) 1 → C, 2 → B, 3 → A, 4 → D

Explanation:

1. Ganga Action Plan → C. River rejuvenation and pollution abatement 

2. Namami Gange → B. Coastal biodiversity conservation (While its main focus is on river rejuvenation, in this option-based format, it's best matched to B for uniqueness, assuming one-to-one matching is enforced.)

3. Integrated Coastal and Marine Area Management (ICMAM) → A. Coastal pollution management 

4. Coastal Ocean Monitoring and Prediction System (COMAPS) → D. Pollution monitoring in coastal waters