How have anthropogenic activities contributed to large-scale land degradation in recent decades, and what are the ecological consequences of such changes? In this context, examine how India can formulate a resilient and sustainable land-use strategy.
Kartavya Desk Staff
Topic: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation,
Topic: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation,
Q6. How have anthropogenic activities contributed to large-scale land degradation in recent decades, and what are the ecological consequences of such changes? In this context, examine how India can formulate a resilient and sustainable land-use strategy. (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: DTE
Why the question A 2025 global study highlighted that 25% of Earth’s land has been adversely altered by human activity, with agriculture as the leading cause — making land degradation a critical topic for environmental governance. Key Demand of the question The question requires explaining how human activities have caused large-scale land degradation, evaluating its ecological consequences, and suggesting a sustainable land-use strategy specifically for India. Structure of the Answer: Introduction Mention how human activity has become the dominant factor in reshaping terrestrial ecosystems, affecting biodiversity and land quality. Body Briefly outline major anthropogenic drivers such as agriculture, urbanisation, mining, and infrastructure. Discuss key ecological consequences like biodiversity loss, soil degradation, climate vulnerability, and water cycle disruption. Suggest strategic responses for India including agroecology, integrated land-use planning, geospatial tools, and community-led restoration. Conclusion Highlight the urgency of treating land as a strategic ecological asset and integrating sustainability into every tier of land management.
Why the question A 2025 global study highlighted that 25% of Earth’s land has been adversely altered by human activity, with agriculture as the leading cause — making land degradation a critical topic for environmental governance.
Key Demand of the question The question requires explaining how human activities have caused large-scale land degradation, evaluating its ecological consequences, and suggesting a sustainable land-use strategy specifically for India.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction Mention how human activity has become the dominant factor in reshaping terrestrial ecosystems, affecting biodiversity and land quality.
• Briefly outline major anthropogenic drivers such as agriculture, urbanisation, mining, and infrastructure.
• Discuss key ecological consequences like biodiversity loss, soil degradation, climate vulnerability, and water cycle disruption.
• Suggest strategic responses for India including agroecology, integrated land-use planning, geospatial tools, and community-led restoration.
Conclusion Highlight the urgency of treating land as a strategic ecological asset and integrating sustainability into every tier of land management.