Which of the following options represent the main objectives of the Chipko Movement that started in 1973 in Uttarakhand?
(i)To protect the forests from commercial logging and exploitation
(ii)To assert the rights and interests of the local people over the forests
(iii)To promote afforestation and conservation of biodiversity
(iv)To protest against the displacement and marginalization of women
OPTIONS:
A) i and ii only
B) i, ii and iii only
C) ii, iii and iv only
D) i, ii, iii and iv
Answer:
Answer by Student
So, the correct answer is (B): i, ii and iii only
Detailed Explanation by Teachoo
Let’s check all the options
- Option i. To protect the forests from commercial logging and exploitation - This was one of the main objectives of the Chipko Movement. The movement started as a protest against the government’s decision to allot forest land to a sports goods company, while denying the local villagers access to trees for their livelihood needs. The movement aimed to stop the destruction of forests by commercial interests and preserve them for ecological and social benefits. So, this is correct .
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Option ii. To assert the rights and interests of the local people over the forests
- This was another important objective of the Chipko Movement. The movement challenged the government’s monopoly over forest resources and demanded that the local communities have a say in how the forests are managed and used. The movement also sought to restore the traditional relationship between the people and the forests, based on mutual respect and interdependence. So, this is
correct
.
- Option iii. To promote afforestation and conservation of biodiversity - This was also a key objective of the Chipko Movement. The movement recognized that forests are not only a source of timber, but also provide vital ecosystem services such as water regulation, soil protection, climate moderation, and habitat for wildlife. The movement advocated for planting more trees and protecting the existing ones from degradation and fragmentation. The movement also highlighted the rich diversity of flora and fauna in the Himalayan forests and their importance for human well-being. So, this is correct .
- Option iv. To protest against the displacement and marginalization of women - This was not a direct objective of the Chipko Movement, although it was an underlying issue that motivated many women to join the movement. The movement was largely led by women, who were more dependent on forests for their daily needs and more vulnerable to the impacts of deforestation. The movement also gave women a voice and a platform to express their concerns and aspirations for their communities and environment. However, the movement did not explicitly aim to address gender inequality or discrimination in society. So, this is incorrect .
Thus, option (B): i, ii, and iii are correct
