UPSC Prelims 2012 · Question 46 of 98

UPSC Prelims 2012 question on Wetlands of India

With reference to the wetlands of India, consider the following statements:

1. The country’s total geographical area under the category of wetlands is recorded more in Gujarat as compared to other States.

2. In India, the total geographical area of coastal wetlands is larger than that of inland wetlands.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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Answer: A. 1 only

Correct Answer: 1 only

Wetlands are areas where water is the main factor controlling the environment and associated plant and animal life.

In India, Gujarat has the largest wetland area, but inland wetlands occupy a larger area than coastal wetlands.

1. The country’s total geographical area under the category of wetlands is recorded more in Gujarat as compared to other States — Correct

Gujarat has the largest area under wetlands among Indian states.

This is mainly due to its long coastline, saline wetlands and the Rann of Kachchh.

2. In India, the total geographical area of coastal wetlands is larger than that of inland wetlands — Incorrect

This is reversed.

In India, inland wetlands cover a larger area than coastal wetlands. Inland wetlands include lakes, ponds, reservoirs, marshes and oxbow lakes.

* Wetlands cover around 4.6% of India’s total geographical area.

* Inland wetlands include lakes, rivers, reservoirs, ponds, marshes and floodplains.

* Coastal wetlands include mangroves, lagoons, mudflats, coral reefs and salt pans.

* The Rann of Kachchh is one of India’s largest wetland regions.

* Ramsar sites are wetlands of international importance under the Ramsar Convention.

* Wetlands help in groundwater recharge, flood control, carbon storage and biodiversity conservation.

Gujarat has the largest wetland area among Indian states, but inland wetlands are larger than coastal wetlands in India.

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