Question

Which of the following is not done in a wildlife sanctuary?
(a) Fauna is conserved
(b) Flora is conserved
(c) Soil and flora are utilized
(d) Hunting is prohibited

Answer 1

Hint: A wildlife sanctuary is a plot of land that is meant to protect a living being, be it plants or animals. In a wildlife sanctuary, all species must be protected. Hence, any form of exploitation of the abiotic or biotic components is prohibited.

Complete answer:
A wildlife sanctuary is a geographical area of land that is protected for the flora or the fauna present on it, or for any geographical interest.
- Animals can be brought to a wildlife sanctuary and are protected for the rest of their lives till their natural death. Here, they are protected from predation, poaching, and hunting. As they depend on an ideal environment, the plants and the abiotic components are preserved and they are not utilized for any other purpose.
- Many endangered animals are herbivores, hence it is essential to preserve the flora around them.
- Hence, the flora and fauna are conserved and hunting is prohibited.

Additional Information:
- Wildlife sanctuary is also known as a natural reserve, wildlife refuge, wildlife sanctuary, biosphere reserve or bio reserve, natural or nature preserve, or nature conservation area.
- Wildlife sanctuaries are more strictly conserved than nature parks.
- A wildlife sanctuary also houses abused, injured, and abandoned captive animals. The animals are also not bred or exploited for commercial activities.

So, the correct answer is option (c) ‘Soil and flora are utilized’.

Note: Wildlife sanctuaries in India are classified under IUCN Category IV protected areas.
- As of 2019, there are 553 existing wildlife sanctuaries in India.
- Other protected areas in India include Marine Protected Areas, National Parks, Conservation Reserves, and Community Reserves.