Environmental Studies PYQs

Explanation:

Nehru Mountaineering Institute:

• It is a premier mountaineering institute working under the aegis of the Ministry of Defence and the Government of Uttarakhand.
• It was established at Uttarkashi on 14 November 1965 to honour the desire of Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru.
• It is the only mountaineering institute in India certified by the International Federation for Climbing and Mountaineering- UIAA.
• President: Rajnath Singh (Defence Minister of India), Vice-President: Pushkar Singh Dhami ( Chief Minister of Uttarakhand).
• NIM trainees and its alumni played a major role during the Kedarnath floods in 2013.

Thus, the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering is located at Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand.

Concept:​

There are four types of psychoactive drugs:

• Stimulants
• Depressants
• Narcotics and
• Hallucinogens

Explanation:

Antibiotics:

• Antibiotic medicines kill or stop the growth of disease-causing microorganisms.

Penicillin:

• The bacterial cell wall-building mechanisms are inhibited by the antibiotic penicillin.
• Because of this medication, the bacteria can't build a protective cell wall and quickly perishes.
• It is used to treat infections and disorders brought on by bacteria.

​Thus, penicillin is not a hallucinogen.

Additional Information

• Stimulants: these drugs block the reuptake and reabsorption of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine which can lead to increased energy, panic, and anxiety. e.g. Nicotine and caffeine.
• Depressants: increase the production of neurotransmitter GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric acid), which in turn reduce nervous system activity and induces sleep e.g. Benzodiazepines.
• Narcotics: These stimulate the release of endorphins which are neurotransmitters that reduces pain, hence used as analgesics e.g. morphine and codeine.
• Hallucinogens: These are warped a person's sense of time and space hence tricking the brain into seeing or hearing things that aren't actually present i.e. hallucination. e.g. LSD.
• Sedative drugs: are tranquillizers that act as CNS depressants and induce sedation by increasing the activity of GABA neurotransmitters.
• Epichlorohydrins: ECH is derived from propylene and is used mainly for the manufacture of glycerol and unmodified epoxy resins and, to a lesser extent, in the manufacture of elastomers, water treatment resins, surfactants, ion exchange resins, etc. It is a strong irritant and acutely toxic following oral, percutaneous, subcutaneous, and respiratory exposure. Death may result due to effects on the central nervous system and the respiratory center.
• Alcohol: is also called ethanol and it leads to depression of the Central nervous system that is slowing down nerve activity and brain functioning.

Rajendra Singh: 

• Dr. Rajendra Singh is a renowned river rejuvenator and environmentalist.
• Rajendra Singh born on 6 August 1959 is an Indian water conservationist and environmentalist from Alwar district, Rajasthan in India.
• Mr. Singh uses a modern version of the ancient Indian technique of rainwater harvesting.
• He is known as the Waterman of India.
• He has been awarded honorary doctorate degrees by the University of Agricultural Sciences in Dharwad Karnataka 2014.
• More than 1,200 villages in the country are now water secure.

Thus, Rajendra Singh is referred to as the Waterman of India.

Concept:

• Every region has a different house.
• The type of house depends on the climatic conditions in the region.
• Houses are built specially to suit the needs of the people.

Explanation:

Houses of Srinagar:

• Some houses are on the mountains, while some are on water.
• Tourists who come to Srinagar love to stay in houseboats.
• Houseboats can be as long as 80 feet and around 8 to 9 feet wide.
• Many families in Srinagar live in a ‘donga’.
• These boats can be seen in Dal Lake and the Jhelum river.
• From inside the ‘donga’ is just like a house with different rooms.
• Beautiful carving on wood can be seen on the ceiling of houseboats and some big houses.
• This design is called ‘khatamband’, which has a pattern that looks like a jigsaw puzzle.
• In villages of Kashmir, houses are made from stones cut and kept one on top of the other and coated with mud.
• Wood is also used. The houses have sloping roofs.
• Some old houses have a special type of window which comes out of the wall. This is called ‘dab’.
• It has a beautiful wood pattern. It is wonderful to sit here and enjoy the view.
• The old houses here are made of stone, bricks and wood.
• The doors and windows have beautiful arches called mehraab. ​

Thus, the pattern on Kashmiri Houseboats which appears like jigsaw puzzle is khatamband.

​

Concept:

• Maps are drawn to reduced scales.
• Scale =  actual distance on the ground/distance shown on the map.

Given:

• Scale 1 cm = 110 meters
• The distance between Fateh Darwaza and Banjara Darwaza= 13.7 cm.

Explanation:

• 1 cm on map = 110 meters on the ground.
• The actual distance between cities = 13.7 × 110 meters = 1507 m = 1.507 km

Thus, the actual distance between Fateh Darwaza and Banjara Darwaza is 1.507 km.

The third level in an ecological pyramid consists of organisms that consume herbivores for energy. These are typically carnivores, which rely on primary consumers as their food source. Carnivores play a critical role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems by regulating herbivore populations and preventing overgrazing of producers. They are secondary consumers in the energy flow of an ecosystem, obtaining energy indirectly from producers through the food chain. This level demonstrates the transfer of energy from one group of organisms to another in a natural hierarchy.

Explanation:

• When one travels by train from Delhi to Mumbai a person comes across various landscapes and crosses through various states.
• Delhi is a landlocked city, whereas Mumbai is the capital of the state of Maharashtra and lies in the western part of the country.
• The states that one crosses while travelling from Delhi to Mumbai are:
• Gujarat
• Maharashtra
• Haryana
• Rajasthan
• They come across various rivers, tunnels and landforms.

Thus, Gaurav Jaani on his way from Delhi to Mumbai travelled through the small and big states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan.

Concept:

• Every region has a different house.
• The type of house depends on the climatic conditions in the region.
• Houses are built specially to suit the needs of the people.

Explanation:

Himachal Pradesh:

• Manali is a hilly area.
• It rains heavily and snows as well there.
• The houses are made of stone or wood with slanting roofs.

Important Points Slanting roof:

• In areas of high rainfall (like Assam) or snowfall (like Himachal) houses with slanting roof is found.
• This is to redirect water and snow off the roof, preventing pooling and costly damages.

​Thus, Chameli lives in a house made of stone or wood.

Explanation:

Fiber:

• Roughage is also known as fiber.
• Dietary fiber or roughage is the part of plant-based food that cannot be fully broken down by human digestive enzymes.
• Roughage consists of parts of plant foods—such as whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, fruits, and vegetables—that your body cannot digest.
• Foods rich in roughage do not provide nutrients.

Roughage helps to:

• Prevent constipation
• Satisfy hunger
• Stimulate peristalsis to eliminate fecal matter

Thus, the incorrect statement is that it provides nutrients to our body.

The Correct answer is: Trees that grow there

Concept:

• Khejedli or Khejarli is a village in the Jodhpur district of Rajasthan.
• The name of the town is derived from Khejadi trees that were once abundant in the village.

Key Points

About the Khejadli village: 

• In the Khejadli village, no tree is cut and no animal is harmed.
• The people of Khejadli village take the responsibility of protecting the Khejadi trees upon themselves as a part of their culture.
• The people of Khejadli village are well known for their revolt against the king, who has ordered the felling down of these Khejadi trees for wood.
• The people hugged the trees and did not let them go and died saving them.
• Even today, the people of this area, called Bishnois, continue to protect plants and animals.
• Even though in the middle of the desert, this area is green and animals roam freely without fear.

​Thus, the Khejadli village got its name from the Khejri tree grown there. 

Additional Information 

About Khejadi tree:

• Its scientific name is Prosopis cineraria.
• It is known by different names across India.
• Example: Shami in Maharastra & Uttar Pradesh, Jammi in Telangana, Khijro in Gujarat, Khejri in Rajasthan, Janti in Haryana, and Jand in Punjab.
• It is a species of flowering tree in the pea family, Fabaceae.
• The Khejadi tree is found mainly in desert areas.
• It can grow without much water.
• Its bark is used for making medicines.
• People cook and eat its fruits.
• Its wood is such that it is not affected by insects.
• Animals in the area eat the leaves of the Khejadi.

The correct answer is Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu.

Concept:

• India is a country of vast geographical expanse.
• In the north, it is bound by the lofty Himalayas.
• The Arabian Sea in the west.
• The Bay of Bengal in the east.
• The Indian Ocean in the south.

Explanation:

Indian States / Union Territories with the coast on the Bay of Bengal:

• West Bengal.
• Odisha.
• Andhra Pradesh.
• Tamil Nadu.
• Puducherry.
• Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Additional Information 

Indian States / Union Territories with the coast on the Arabian Sea:

• Gujarat.
• Maharashtra.
• Goa.
• Daman and Diu.
• Karnataka.
• Kerela.
• Lakshwadeep.
• Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

Concept:

• Water is the most valuable, essential, and abiotic component of the ecosystem.
• Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) is the process of collecting and storing rainwater instead of allowing it to run off.
• It is a low-cost and eco-friendly technique designed to conserve every drop of water by directing rainwater into borewells, pits, and wells.
• Rainwater harvesting aids in:
• Recharging local aquifers
• Reducing urban flooding
• Ensuring water availability in water-scarce regions

Explanation:

• Water harvesting is a practice of water conservation involving the organized collection of rainwater.
• Rainwater is not allowed to run off and go to waste; instead, it is collected in tanks.
• However, the primary objective is not merely collection but raising the groundwater level.
• Collected water is channeled through pipes to facilitate groundwater recharge.
• Maintaining groundwater serves as a long-term, sustainable strategy for water conservation.
• Therefore, water harvesting is utilized to raise groundwater levels through the organized collection of water.
• Thus, water harvesting is a method that leads to an increase in groundwater levels.
• Rainwater harvesting facilitates groundwater recharge, which also improves the quality of groundwater.
• Water harvesting is an ancient practice in India and is now considered a more efficient method of water management compared to dams.
• People are adopting this method, and it is also being encouraged by the administration and the government.

Important Points

Benefits of Rainwater Harvesting:

• Easy to maintain.
• Reduces flooding.
• Reduces soil erosion.
• Encourages the conservation of both water and energy.
• Improves groundwater quality and quantity.
• Improves groundwater levels through recharging.
• Suitable for irrigation.
• Reduces the demand for groundwater.
• Lowers water bills.

Disadvantages of Rainwater Harvesting:

• High initial cost. If not installed properly, it can attract mosquitoes and lead to waterborne diseases.
• Unpredictable rainfall.
• Requires regular maintenance.
• Storage limitations are one of the major drawbacks of rainwater harvesting systems.

Thus, rainwater harvesting refers to the collection of rainwater in surface or subsurface aquifers.

Explanation: 

About the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan:

• The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan was launched on 2^nd October 2014 at Rajghat in New Delhi on Gandhiji’s 150^th birthday.
• It aims towards "clean India" by 2^nd October 2019.
• It is to help us realize that cleanliness is everyone’s duty and responsibility.
• Its aim was to put an end to going toilet in the open.
• It focuses on cleanliness and hygiene.
• It aimed at making toilet for people who do not have them.

Thus, the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan was launched on Mahatma Gandhi's 150^th Birthday.

The constructivist approach to teaching and learning emphasizes active participation, collaboration, and the construction of knowledge by students themselves. It encourages students to make connections between new information and their existing knowledge and experiences.

Key Points

• In the case of teaching the concept of 'communication', a field visit to a nearby post office provides a real-life example of communication systems at work.
• Through such an experience, students can observe the process of sending and receiving mail, facilitating their understanding of one aspect of communication.

Thus, it is concluded that plan a field visit to a nearby post office is the correct answer.

Folklore refers to the traditional stories, customs, beliefs, and practices passed down through generations within a particular culture or community.

Key Points

• Folklores develop children's imagination: Folklores often contain vivid and imaginative stories, characters, and settings. By exposing children to folklore, their imagination is stimulated, allowing them to explore and envision various aspects of the natural world and environmental scenarios.
• Folklores connect children with their environment: Folklores often contain elements of local culture, traditions, and stories that are closely tied to the environment in which they originated. By incorporating folklore into Environmental Studies, children can develop a deeper connection with their surroundings.
• Folklores develop creativity among children: Folklores are rich in imaginative elements, such as mythical creatures, magical places, and fantastical events. By exploring folklore, children are encouraged to use their imagination and creative thinking skills.

Thus, it is concluded that A, B, and E is the correct answer.

Group activities in teaching and learning Environmental Studies (EVS) at the primary level help to include diverse learners in the process of learning in several ways.

Key Points

• Group activities provide a platform for students with different backgrounds, abilities, and learning styles to work together. Students can collaborate, exchange ideas, and contribute their unique perspectives to the group.
• In group activities, students have the opportunity to learn from each other. They can share their understanding, ask questions, and clarify doubts collectively.
• It allows teachers to employ differentiated instruction strategies effectively.
• Group activities promote social interaction and the development of important social and emotional skills. Students learn to communicate effectively, listen to other's ideas, and cooperate in achieving shared goals.

Thus, it is concluded that Group activities in teaching - learning of EVS at the primary level help to include diverse learners in the process of learning.

Formative assessments are designed to gather ongoing information about students' progress and understanding, with the aim of informing instructional decisions and providing feedback for improvement.

Key Points

• Group projects/assignments are an effective tool for formative assessment as they provide insight into individual and group learning, allowing teachers to gauge students' comprehension and identify areas for intervention or enrichment.
• Through collaborative work, students can apply their knowledge, problem-solve, and communicate their ideas effectively.
• Teachers can assess students' progress and provide timely feedback during the process of working on group projects, allowing for adjustments and further learning.

Thus, it is concluded that the primary tools for formative assessment include working on group projects/assignments.

As a constructivist approach to teaching, it is important to encourage students to explore and discover knowledge on their own. 

Key Points

Ask Anil to explore which other objects sink in water and tell him that you will learn in your higher classes why things sink in water:

• It encourages Anil to explore the concept further through observation and comparison, fostering curiosity and inquiry-based learning.
• It also sets the expectation that more in-depth understanding will be gained in higher classes, which aligns with the constructivist approach of building on prior knowledge and experiences.

Thus, it is concluded that option 3 is the most suitable approach in this scenario.