Question

Match column I (protected area) with column II (in situ conservation strategy) and select the correct option.

Column I	Column II
1. Bastar region of Madhya Pradesh	A. National Park
2. Sunderban	B. Sacred groves
3. Gir	C. Biosphere Reserve

• A. 1 - B, 2 - C, 3 - A
• B. 1 - C, 2 - B, 3 - A
• C. 1 - C, 2 - A, 3 - B
• D. 1 - A, 2 - C, 3 - B

Answer 1

The correct option is A 1 - B, 2 - C, 3 - A

In situ conservation involves conserving and protecting organisms in their natural habitat. It involves sacred groves, biosphere reserves and national parks.

Sacred groves refer to the forest tracts that are held in high regard and esteem due to their association with nearby places of worship. The social traditions and taboos associated with these places urge the local communities to protect the plants and wildlife in these areas. Thus these forests have minimal human impact. The Chandar and Bastar areas of Madhya Pradesh have sacred groves.


Biosphere reserves are multipurpose protected areas of habitat, in which human beings are an integral part of the system. Sunderban is located in the Delta of river Ganges. It is the largest delta and mangrove forest of Earth and is a biodiversity hotspot with a variety of flora (plants) and fauna (animals). It is the home to the threatened species of royal Bengal tiger and acts as a tiger reserve. The Sunderban is a biosphere reserve which is maintained by the government.

Figure : Biosphere reserve

A national park is a protected area funded and conserved by the national government which is strictly reserved for the conservation of wildlife. No human manipulation is allowed in the national parks. The Gir national park comprises the Gir forest which is considered to be the last existing home to the endangered (seriously at risk of extinction) species of Asiatic Lion. Other than this the national park also shelters predators such as leopards, hyenas, wild boars, etc. Hence option a is correct.

Figure : Gir national park