Environment and General Science

Environment

General Science

FAQs on Environment and General Science of Gujarat

 What are the major environmental issues facing Gujarat?

  • Water Scarcity: Gujarat faces water scarcity due to uneven rainfall distribution, overexploitation of groundwater, and industrial pollution.
  • Pollution: Industrial pollution, especially in major cities like Ahmedabad, Vadodara, and Surat, is a major concern. The state also faces air pollution due to vehicular emissions and industrial activities.
  • Salinity Ingress: Coastal areas are prone to salinity ingress, where seawater seeps into groundwater aquifers, making it unfit for drinking and irrigation.
  • Desertification: The arid and semi-arid regions of Gujarat are prone to desertification due to overgrazing, deforestation, and unsustainable agricultural practices.
  • Loss of Biodiversity: Rapid industrialization and urbanization have led to habitat loss and fragmentation, threatening the state’s biodiversity.

 What are the major environmental initiatives undertaken by the Gujarat government?

  • Nal Se Jal: A flagship scheme to provide piped drinking water to every rural household in Gujarat.
  • Sujalam Sufalam Jal Abhiyan (SSJA): A water conservation scheme focusing on deepening water bodies, building check dams, and promoting rainwater harvesting.
  • Climate Change Department: Established to address climate change-related issues and promote sustainable development.
  • Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB): Monitors and regulates industrial pollution in the state.
  • Gujarat Ecology Commission (GEC): Responsible for environmental planning and conservation.

What are the major wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in Gujarat?

  • Gir Forest National Park: The only natural habitat of Asiatic lions in the world.
  • Blackbuck National Park, Velavadar: Known for its blackbuck antelope population.
  • Marine National Park: India’s first marine national park, located in the Gulf of Kutch, known for its coral reefs and marine life.
  • Wild Ass Sanctuary: Located in the Little Rann of Kutch, home to the endangered Indian wild ass.
  • Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary: A Ramsar site, home to a variety of migratory birds.

What are the important topics in General Science for GPSC exams?

  • Physics: Basics of Mechanics, Electricity, Magnetism, Light, and Sound.
  • Chemistry: Basic concepts, Atomic structure, Chemical bonding, and chemical reactions.
  • Biology: Cell structure, Genetics, Evolution, Human anatomy and physiology, Plant and animal kingdom.
  • Environmental Science: Basic concepts, Ecosystems, Biodiversity, Pollution, and Climate change.
  • Current Affairs: Recent developments in science and technology, especially those relevant to Gujarat and India.

How should I prepare for the General Science section?

  • NCERT textbooks: Revise NCERT textbooks from classes 6 to 12 for a strong foundation in basic concepts.
  • Standard reference books: Read standard reference books for a deeper understanding of specific topics.
  • Previous year’s question papers: Analyze previous year’s question papers to understand the exam pattern and types of questions asked.
  • Mock tests: Practice mock tests regularly to assess your preparation level and identify areas for improvement.
  • Stay updated: Keep yourself updated on current affairs in science and technology through newspapers, magazines, and online resources.