Resources and Development
Overview
This chapter explores the concept of resources, their classification, development, and conservation. It also discusses the importance of sustainable resource management and the role of humans in resource utilization. The chapter provides insights into land use patterns, land degradation, soil conservation, and case studies on resource planning in India.
Resources: Definition and Classification
What are Resources?
Resources are naturally occurring or human-made materials that satisfy human needs and contribute to economic development. They can be classified based on origin, exhaustibility, ownership, and development.
Types of Resources
- On the Basis of Origin
- Biotic Resources: Derived from living organisms (e.g., forests, animals, fisheries, agriculture). These resources are renewable and can be replenished through reproduction and proper conservation measures.
- Abiotic Resources: Non-living resources (e.g., minerals, water, air, sunlight). These resources have varying rates of renewability and depletion, depending on usage patterns.
- On the Basis of Exhaustibility
- Renewable Resources: Can be replenished naturally (e.g., solar energy, wind energy, forests, water). However, overuse and deforestation can reduce their availability.
- Non-renewable Resources: Exist in finite quantities and take millions of years to form (e.g., coal, petroleum, natural gas, minerals). These resources are exhaustible and require careful management to avoid depletion.
- On the Basis of Ownership
- Individual Resources: Owned privately (e.g., farmland, houses, plantations). These resources are managed at the individual or family level and vary from region to region.
- Community Resources: Accessible to all members of a community (e.g., public parks, grazing lands, village ponds). These are collectively managed resources essential for communal well-being.
- National Resources: Owned by a nation (e.g., forests, rivers, mines, railways). The government manages these resources for the benefit of the people.
- International Resources: Managed by international organizations (e.g., oceanic resources beyond EEZ, Antarctica). These are beyond national jurisdiction and require global cooperation.
- On the Basis of Development
- Potential Resources: Found in a region but not yet utilized (e.g., wind energy in Rajasthan, solar energy in Gujarat). These require technological advancements for proper utilization.
- Developed Resources: Explored and utilized with current technology (e.g., coal, hydroelectricity, petroleum). These resources are available for immediate consumption.
- Stock Resources: Present in nature but lacking technology for their utilization (e.g., hydrogen energy from water). Future research and development may make them viable.
- Reserves: A subset of stock resources that can be used in the future (e.g., forests, groundwater). Proper planning ensures their availability for long-term use.
Development of Resources and Sustainable Management
Need for Resource Planning
Uncontrolled exploitation of resources leads to problems such as:
- Resource depletion (e.g., overuse of groundwater, deforestation)
- Environmental degradation (e.g., soil erosion, pollution)
- Economic disparity among regions
Sustainable Development
Defined as development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Examples include renewable energy use, afforestation, and water conservation.
Resource Planning in India
Steps in Resource Planning
- Identifying resources across different regions of the country.
- Creating a planning structure with appropriate technology, skill, and institutions.
- Implementing resource conservation strategies.
Case Study: Resource Planning in India
India has rich natural resources but faces regional imbalances. Some states like Rajasthan have arid conditions, while others like Jharkhand have abundant mineral resources but suffer from deforestation and land degradation.
Land Resources and Utilization
Land Use Pattern in India
- Forests: Cover 21% of total land area (as per government reports).
- Land under Agriculture: More than 50% of land is used for farming.
- Barren and Wasteland: Includes desert and rocky areas.
- Non-agricultural Land: Includes urban land, roads, and industrial areas.
Land Degradation and Its Causes
- Deforestation due to urbanization and agriculture expansion.
- Overgrazing leading to soil erosion.
- Mining activities creating barren land.
- Excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides degrading soil fertility.
Measures to Conserve Land
- Afforestation and reforestation.
- Controlled grazing and proper agricultural practices.
- Proper waste management and mining regulations.
Soil as a Resource
Major Types of Soil in India
- Alluvial Soil: Found in the Indo-Gangetic plains, rich in nutrients, suitable for agriculture.
- Black Soil: Found in Deccan Plateau, retains moisture, good for cotton cultivation.
- Red and Yellow Soil: Found in eastern and southern India, low fertility.
- Laterite Soil: Found in high rainfall areas, used for plantations.
- Arid Soil: Found in Rajasthan and Gujarat, poor in moisture.
- Forest Soil: Found in mountainous regions, supports forest growth.
Soil Erosion and Conservation Methods
- Soil Erosion: Loss of topsoil due to wind, water, and deforestation.
- Methods of Conservation:
- Contour plowing (farming along the contour lines).
- Shelter belts (planting trees to prevent wind erosion).
- Terrace farming (step-like farming on slopes to prevent erosion).
- Crop rotation and organic farming to maintain soil fertility.
Conservation of Resources
Methods of Resource Conservation
- Judicious Use of Resources: Avoiding over-exploitation of natural resources.
- Afforestation and Reforestation: Planting trees to maintain ecological balance.
- Water Conservation: Use of rainwater harvesting and watershed management.
- Energy Conservation: Promoting renewable energy sources like solar and wind power.
- Waste Management: Recycling and proper disposal of industrial and household waste.
Case Study: Conservation Efforts in India
- Chipko Movement: A grassroots movement in Uttarakhand to prevent deforestation.
- Narmada Bachao Andolan: A movement against large dam projects affecting local communities.
- Rainwater Harvesting in Rajasthan: Traditional techniques like ‘Johads’ (small ponds) for water conservation.
Conclusion
Resource development and conservation are crucial for maintaining ecological balance and ensuring sustainable growth. Responsible use of resources will help in maintaining environmental stability and securing the future for upcoming generations.