Social Studies and Population Education Book 7_2078 Revised and Updated Edition

document, to visit or observe the place where any construction of public importance is going on and to obtain verified sample of any materials or to obtain information held in any type of machine. There is National Information Commission (NIC), an independent commission established for the protection, promotion and implementation of right to information in Nepal. Importance of Right to Information Right to information is important to every individual. The following points justify its importance: e It helps public to have access to information relating to public importance. e It promotes the rule of law. e It encourages civil education and improves the democratic governing system. e It helps to ensure transparency in the country. e It empowers public to participate in governance system. e It discourages the false information. e It decreases all kinds of corruption. e It makes public agencies responsible and accountable. e It provides a legal basis to an individual to ask for information from public agencies. e It allows public to know and raise questions to public agencies about the status of the work. Right to information is not an absolute right. All the information are not made public or do not fall under the Right to Information. Some kinds of information are restricted to request, obtain and provide. The Right to Information Act, 2064 has provided the basis for the legitimate restrictions on right to information. The following kinds of information do not fall under the Right to Information or are restricted to provide: Information which seriously jeopardizes the sovereignty, integrity, national security, public peace, stability and international relations of Nepal Information which directly affects the investigation, inquiry and prosecution of crimes Information having serious impact on protection of economic, trade, or monetary interest or intellectual property, or banking or trade privacy Information that jeopardizes the harmonious relationship subsisted among various casts and communities, and 101 Civic Consciousness

Information that interferes on individual privacy and security of body, life, property or health of a person However, the flow of information cannot be restricted without any appropriate and adequate reasons. Activities a. Explore the efforts made to promote ‘Right to Information’ in Nepal and discuss in the class. b. For what kind of information, one cannot be compelled to provide? Discuss and write. Exercise 1. Answer the following questions: a. What is information? What has the present constitution stated under the “Right to Information”? b. What does Right to Information denote? Make a list of the rights under the right to information. c. Clarify the importance of Right to Information. d. How is right to information guaranteed in Nepal? e. Is it necessary to make all the information public? What kinds of information are not made public or do not fall under the Right to Information? Community Work There might be some individuals in your community working in public bodies. Prepare a list of questions to ask him/her about the efforts made to maintain transparency in his/her office. Write a report including the information that you obtained from the interview. 102 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

Lesson DEMOCRATIC CONDUCT 7 Democracy is a form of government in which the supreme power is vested in the people. Nepal is a democratic country. In democracy, people enjoy their rights. They also respect the rights of others. Everyone is conscious about the duty and do activities accordingly. People are free and equal in democracy. Our activities and manner of behaving others in a democratic way is called democratic conduct. If everyone adopts democratic conduct, there is no discrimination in the world and everyone can live a life with dignity. Thus, all of us should follow democratic conduct. The following are the some democratic conducts: M We should treat everyone equally. M All the people are equal and have got equal rights. M We should not violate others’ rights while seeking our own rights. M The activities like murder, violence, criminal activities are not civilized acts. M Everyone must have equal protection from law. M All the people are equal by the law. M We should not force others to do any work against their wish. M Males and females should be Respecting the Law treated equally. M Everyone has got the right to speak and express opinion. M Co-existence, peace, reconciliation, self-respect, etc are the backbone of democratic conducts. Showing the above activities depicts democratic conducts. For adopting the democratic conducts, we have to consider the following ways: Civic Consciousness 103

Treat everyone as an equal Do not be greedy Put social interest first rather than personal interests Utilize time fully Discourage superstitions and malpractices Be positive Show respect and honour to others Utilize public property properly Be responsible Do not be extravagant End the practice of untouchability Respect and follow the law Give opportunity for education to all Do not discriminate on the basis of caste, religion, gender, colour and region We should all follow democratic conducts within each other. If we follow democratic conduct, our country will become an ideal country. Respecting the Senior Equal Opportunity KEY TERMS Depict : show, represent Extravagant : showing or spending too much Malpractices : misconduct Reconciliation : compromise Superstition : blind faith 104 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

Activities a. List the name of your friends who show democratic conducts. b. Prepare a table showing democratic conducts. Display your table in the class. Exercise 1. Answer the following questions: a. What is a democracy? b. Give five examples of democratic conducts. c. Write three incidents which happened in your locality that did not reflect democratic conducts. d. How can we make our country an ideal country? 2. State true or false. a. If we respect our friends, they will respect us. b. Differently able, talented and weak people cannot be treated equally. c. Males and females should be treated equally. d. Only few people have got the right to speak and express their opinions in our country. Community Work Your community may consist of people with good manner. How do their good manner and good works help to strengthen democratic conducts? Write your views and tell them to your friends. Civic Consciousness 105

Lesson EQUAL BEHAVIOUR 8 The conduct, manner or relationship to be maintained by a person towards others in the society is called their behaviour. There can be various kinds of behaviours. Correct behaviour should be shown that shows equal quality towards others regardless of their religion, colour, gender, caste, language, etc. This behaviour is called an equal behaviour. A good citizen behaves equally to all. Gender Equality Clashes and quarrels emerge in the absence of equal behaviour in society. It creates chaos in the society. Thus, it is essential that every citizen has to carry out equal behaviour to keep their society in a disciplined and respected form. The Constitution of Nepal has made a provision of ‘Right to Equality’ to maintain equality in the society. The following aspects are included under the ‘Right to Equality’: 1. All citizens shall be equal before law. No person shall be denied the equal protection of law. 2. No discrimination shall be made in the application of general laws on grounds of origin, religion, race, caste, tribe, sex, physical condition, health condition, marital status, pregnancy, economic condition, language or region, ideology or on similar other grounds. 3. The State shall not discriminate citizens on grounds of origin, religion, race, caste, tribe, sex, economic condition, language, region, ideology or on similar other grounds. The above provisions clarify that unequal behaviour to others is against the law. We should not discriminate people on any basis. As it is said “Man becomes greater by heart not by caste”, a man becomes good or bad by his work and his behaviour. There should be equal opportunity to all. All people should show 106 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

their respect and faith for each other in schools, families and in neighbourhoods. The following are some examples of equal behaviour to be practiced in our community and neighbourhood and with our family and friends: Equal Behaviour Among the In the family In the In the friends neighbourhood community - To live and play - To respect, - To help at - Not to in harmony honour, love the time of discriminate - Have friendly and serve all need on the basis discussions the family - Take of religion, - Give and take help members and give caste, language, - Understand - Respect the suggestions profession, others’ others’ views untouchability, problems - Support for rich or poor, - Help in the proper use of etc. - Not to water, road, discriminate to differently-able household work etc. - Respect all - Speak politely - Encourage equally for proper - Use available - Celebrate socialization means and festivals - Support for resources together social reform properly - Behave parents and guests as god Respecting the senior family Working together in a members according to their culture community Civic Consciousness 107

KEY TERMS Behaviour : way of treating others Chaos : complete disorder or confusion Conduct : person’s behaviour Norm : standard pattern of behaviour Practice : usual pattern of action Activities a. What problems may occur due to unequal behavior in the society? Discuss the measures to solve them in groups and present in the class. b. Make a list of equal and unequal behaviour among friends. Equal behaviour Unequal behaviour 1. To live and play with 1. Refusing to sit together, insulting understanding etc others, forbidding others to play while playing, 2. 3. 2. 3. Exercise 1. Answer the following questions: a. What is meant by equal behaviour? b. What are the impacts of unequal behaviour in the society? Mention. c. What aspects are included under the ‘Right to Equality’ in the Constitution of Nepal? Community Work You may have seen some unequal behaviours in your community. Meet an intellectual person of your community and ask how such unequal behaviours can be stopped. Then prepare a report on it. 108 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

Lesson SOCIAL RULES 9 A society has certain norms which people usually or routinely follow in particular situations. These norms that help a society to run smoothly are called social rules. The traditions accepted by a society are called social norms and values. Every society has its own social norms and values. These norms and values Sanitation are followed by everyone as the social custom. There may be both good and bad customs in society but should follow only good conducts. Bad customs bring perversion in the society. So, such bad customs should be removed from the society. Good customs help an individual and the society to be an ideal. Some social rules Respect the seniors and love juniors Obey the senior members of the family Enjoy festivals together with family members Get together on the social occasions like marriage, bratabandha, naming ceremony, etc in the society Help in cremation if someone dies in the society or help others in any other need Clean and conserve the well, street, kulo, tap, religious spots in the community Help the disabled, handicapped, helpless, orphans, elderly, and destitute Keep friendly relations with all Civic Consciousness 109

Respect guests, teachers, mother and father Help the needy as much as one can Prioritize a group interest rather than individual interest Observe the traditional cultures and practices Use the locally available goods and services economically Preserve and promote Nepali fundamental arts, culture and public property and be protected from the bad influence of other culture Support the conservation of Nepal’s natural and national heritage. The conduct and behaviour of people reflect the image of the society. Hence, if we act responsibly keeping everyone’s interests in mind, our society will become more civilized and disciplined. The knowledge and application of social rules lead a society on the right path. Society is positively impacted by responsible social rules. Hence, we should follow the social rules which prevail in our society. Helping the elderly people Helping differently abled people Helping the visually impaired Greeting seniors 110 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

KEY TERMS Bratabandha : sacred threading ceremony Cremation : burning a dead person’s body Destitute : extremely poor; homeless Economical : careful in the spending of the money Perversion : corruption, misuse Activities a. Are there any bad traditions and rules in your society? If yes, make a list of them. Discuss with your friends what should be done to reform such bad rules. Write some measures to correct them. b. Make a list of rules to keep your classroom disciplined and present in the class. Exercise 1. Answer the following questions: a. What is a social rule? b. Why is a social rule necessary? c. Write six main social rules prevailing in your society. Civic Consciousness 111

Lesson RESULT OF FOLLOWING SOCIAL RULES 10 We should know and follow social rules prevailing in our society. The knowledge and application of social rules help a society to be an ideal society. It has positive results in each and every sector of the society. Let’s study some of the social rules and the results of following social rules. Social Rules Positive Results 1. Clean and preserve taps, wells, 1. The public property is utilized and streets, religious spots, etc and preserved. It develops the habit to develop a habit of waiting for work in discipline. It increases the the turn to use such things interest and responsibility towards the social work. 2. Respect to mothers, fathers and 2. It develops the habit of respecting teachers seniors, helps to gain knowledge and practical life skills from the 3. Be disciplined and follow the teachers and parents. norms 3. It teaches to be civilized, disciplined, noble, etc and teaches 4. Respect to guests social norms. 4. It develops the sense of service and 5. Conserve the natural resources teaches human civilization. 5. It helps to maintain environmental 6. Perform cultural rituals from balance and helps in the birth to death continuation of nature. 6. It helps to be adjusted in the family and society, helps to respect others’ contribution, helps to fulfill the duties and keeps us attached to our origin. 112 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

7. Keep on the traditional values 7. It teaches discipline, protects from and norms greediness, decreases the trend of short-time physical enjoyment, 8. Observe various festivals teaches to serve mankind, and together teaches to preserve the religious sites. 8. It helps to preserve culture and transfer it to new generation. KEY TERMS Greed : strong desire for more Prevailing : existing Transfer : pass from one person to another Activity a. Your family or community may have some good and bad customs. Inquire about that and mention as per the following example: Continue as it is Needs to reform Must be removed Respect to guest Cultural tradition Untouchability and dowry custom Exercise 113 1. Answer the following questions: a. Why is it necessary to follow social rules? Write briefly. b. Make a list of social norms being practiced in your family and community. c. Write a paragraph on the topic “Importance of social norms”. d. Prepare a list of the positive results of following social rules. Civic Consciousness

Review Exercise Activities a. Make a plan to celebrate a forthcoming children’s day discussing with your teachers and the people of your community. b. There should be a check and balance among the legislature, executive and judiciary so that the country runs smoothly. Why? Discuss in a group and find the conclusion. Community Work a. The Constitution of Nepal has the provision of ‘Right to Children’. Prepare a list of the rights for children from the book of constitution available in the school library or with your teacher. How many of the children in your community have not enjoyed these rights? Prepare a description. Discuss the ways to ensure that all the children enjoy their rights. Write a report based on your discussion. b. Study of constitution Study the constitution and state whether the following rights are listed in the fundamental rights or not. 1. Right to freedom 2. Right to assemble with armaments 3. Right to equality 4. Right to snatch from wealthy 5. Right to women 6. Right to men 7. Right to children 8. Right to elderly 9. Right to religion 10. Right to information 11. Right against untouchability and caste discrimination 12. Right to discriminate on the basis of religion 13. Right regarding publication, broadcasting and press 14. Right regarding environment and health 15. Right to education and culture c. There may be an old palace, fort, temple, church, mosque, religious place, inn, chautaro, sattal, etc in your locality. What is the condition of its surroundings (good, damaged, demolished, clean or dirty)? Write about its condition. What can you do to preserve that area alone or with the help of group? Do as much as you can and then present in the class. 114 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

5UNIT OUR EARTH ??? Learning Achievement J Introduce latitude and longitude, J Indicate location of places on the map and globe using longitude and latitude, J Introduce to the external factors that change the structure of the earth’s surface, J Describe the natural features in Nepal, J Mention the climate and human life of Nepal according to its physical aspects, J Describe the physical aspects of Europe and Australia, J Describe the economic and social conditions in Europe, J Discuss the development and life style of the people of Europe and Australia, J Introduce climate change, J Discuss ways to prevent disasters and solutions for disasters when they occur, and J Get involved in disaster management and relief actions. Our Earth 115

Lesson INTRODUCTION TO LATITUDE AND LONGITUDE 1 In grade six, you have learnt the definition of latitude and longitude and the descriptions of the structure of the earth. Now, in this lesson, we will learn latitude and longitude in detail and discuss its uses in our day-to-day life. Latitude 30 North 30 Equator 90 (+) 90 0 Latitudes are a series of imaginary lines, 60 60 also called parallels that circle the Earth 30 30 parallel to the Equator. Latitude is also 60 60 defined as the angular distance north and 90 South 90 south of the equator. (-) Latitude run from east to west parallel to the earth’s equator and is the angle made by joining the mid-point of the equator and the place. It is measured in degrees. There are 180 parallels of latitudes, 90 to the north and 90 to the south of the equator. The Equator is represented by the 0° latitude, the North Pole is represented by the 90° north latitude and the South Pole is represented by 90° south latitude. Uses of Latitude e To find the distance of a place in the south or north from the equator, e To know the climate of a place, e To calculate the length of day and night of a place, e To find the distance of a place (One degree latitude equals to 111 km.), and e To divide the earth’s surface into three heat zones: tropical (torrid), temperate and polar (frigid). 116 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

Longitude 150 180 150 Longitudes are a series of imaginary 120 120 lines, also called meridians that run north and south, from one pole to the other. Longitude is also defined as the 90 90 angular distance east and west of the West East Prime Meridian. (+) (-) Longitude run from the north to the 60 60 south meeting at the poles and is the 30 30 angle made by joining the mid-point Prime Meridian of the prime meridian and the place. It is also measured in degrees. There are 360 meridians of longitudes, 180 to the east and 180 to the west of the prime meridian. The Prime Meridian is represented by the 0° longitude and runs through Greenwich, England. Longitude is used to measure the distance east or west of the Prime Meridian in degrees. Uses of Longitude e To find the distance of a place in the east and west from the prime meridian, e To find the local time of a place, and e To determine the time of world and standard times of any country. For example, the standard time of Nepal is based on Gaurisankar Himal which is located at 86° 15' east longitudes. It takes the earth one hour to move 15 degrees from west to the east. In other words, the earth rotates one degree longitude every four minutes. Therefore, the time going east is four minutes ahead for each degree. KEY TERMS Angular distance : the angular separation between two objects Imaginary : existing only in the imagination Mid-point : centre point Our Earth 117

Activities a. Find the latitude and longitude on a globe or map. b. Identify the latitudinal and longitudinal coordinates for places in Nepal and neighbouring countries. Exercise 1. Answer the following questions: a. What is latitude? b. What is longitude? c. Differentiate between the equator and the prime meridian. d. Differentiate between latitude and longitude. e. State the usefulness of latitude and longitude. 2. Fill in the gaps with the suitable words to complete the following incomplete sentences: a. Latitude and Longitude are............................lines. b. The 00 Latitude is called the............................. c. There is a total of............................latitudes in the north. d. The difference of time in one degree longitude is............................. e. The standard time of Nepal is determined from............................ longitude. 3. Look at the following diagram and label the gaps. 66 1°­ N 2 23 1°­ N 115°E Time = ? 2 0° 23 1°­ S 2 100°E, Time=6 am 90° 66 1°­ S 2 118 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

Lesson TOPOGRAPHY AND ITS CHANGE 2 The surface of the earth is irregular. Some parts of the earth’s surface are submerged under water like the oceans and sea floors, while some parts are elevated to a higher altitude than its adjoining land like the mountains and plateaus. Thus, we see a variety of landforms on the earth’s surface like mountains, hills, plateaus, plains, rivers, valleys, etc. This irregular outer surface of the earth is called the earth’s topography. The shape and structure of the earth’s surface due to variations in elevation of the ground is called the relief feature. The formation of these features or shapes that comprises the surface is not always similar. This is mainly because of two different types of agents that play a role in its formation. External agents like rivers, wind, glaciers, etc constantly change and reshape the surface of the earth. They create different type of relief features. On the other hand, internal agents like volcanoes and earthquakes can change the surface of the earth suddenly. They create a type of features. Millions of years ago there was a big sea called Tethys on the same place where there are Himalayas and hills today. In fact there are several factors that are responsible to shape the surface of the earth. The major factors are shown as follows: Elements that change the Earth’s surface External Internal Volcano Earthquake Glacier River Sun Wind Temperature/Heat/Cold Rain Frost Plants/animals Our Earth 119

External Factors Rivers, wind, heat, glaciers, rainfall, frost, animals, human activities, etc are the external agents that change the surface of the earth. a) River A river is a flowing water body that usually originates from mountains and flows to the sea or ocean. During its course, erosion and deposition are some of the major activities of the river which create new features or erode the old shapes on the earth’s crust. The gorges in Pokhara and the plains formed by the Earth’s surface changed by river deposition of eroded materials in the Terai are examples of changes on the earth’s crust due to rivers. b) Glacier A glacier is a thick mass of ice moving downhill due to the force of gravity. During its movement downhill, glacier does both constructive and destructive work that brings about changes on the earth’s crust. Glacier usually moves along the pre-existing valley. Thus, if a glacier moves along a V-shaped valley, a U-Shaped Valley is generally created. c) Wind Moving air is called wind. It is another agent like rivers and glaciers that play a vital role in shaping the earth’s crust. Wind is particularly active in desert areas. Wind creates many unique features by its action of erosion, transportation and deposition. Sand dune is one example. d) Heat and cold Heat and cold result in expansion and contraction. In the dry areas like deserts, the daytime temperature rises and the night time temperature drops to freezing point. This fluctuation of temperature results the expansion and contraction process that breaks even the hard rock into tiny pieces. It changes of earth’s surface. 120 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

Internal Factors Earthquakes and volcanoes are the major internal factors that change the surface of the earth. a) Earthquake Earthquake is a shaking caused by sudden movements of the earth’s crust. It is one of the most terrifying natural phenomena. Due to the horizontal or vertical movement of the earth’s crust, layers of rocks which form the surface of the earth are folded and pushed up or pressed down, forming fold mountains or deep valleys. The Himalayas Earth’s surface changed by earthquake (Asia), the Alps (Europe), the Rockies (North America) and the Andes (South America) are some examples of Fold Mountains. b) Volcano Earth’s surface changed by volcano A volcano is an opening in the earth’s crust through which hot molten materials from deep below the earth’s surface come out with great force. The hot molten materials which come out through the vent usually form a cone-shaped mountain known as volcanic mountain. Mt. Kilimanjaro (Africa), Mt. Fujiyama (Japan), etc are examples of volcanic mountains. KEY TERMS Altitude : height from sea level Crust : outer surface Irregular : not having an even, smooth pattern or shape Phenomena : facts or events Plateau : an area of flat land that is higher than the land around it Vent : the opening of a volcano from which lava flows Our Earth 121

Activities a. Agents like rivers, glaciers, rainfall, wind, heat, etc erodes the land surface, carries the eroded materials and deposits the eroded materials nearby or at some distant places that results in changes on the surface of the earth. Observe one such agent, for eg:- a river, nearby your school along with your teacher. Study the erosion, transportation and deposition caused by the river. Discuss the changes brought on the earth’s crust by the action of the river. Present your findings to the class. b. Study an atlas or physical map of the world and find three mountains, plains and seas. c. Name the factors causing change on the surface of the earth in your surroundings. Exercise 1. Answer the following questions: a. What is topography? b. How is the topography of the earth? c. What are the external elements that bring change in earth’s surface? d. How do the internal factors like earthquakes and volcanoes change the earth’s crust? Mention. e. All the shapes of land that are seen on the earth’s surface change sooner or later. Why are they not permanent? Explain. f. Make a list of the external agents that change the earth’s surface. g. What do you mean by U-shaped valley? Community Work Observe the land structure around your school and note down the types and features of the land structures. Then discuss in the class how they were formed and do they last forever. 122 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

Lesson GEOGRAPHICAL CONDITION OF NEPAL 3 C MHN OI U N N A I H T N T E A I L I L N DR I AI A Nepal is known as the Country of the Himalayas. There is a remarkable variation in the land structure from the north to the south of Nepal. Therefore, based on these structures, Nepal is divided into three physical regions: i) Mountain Region ii) Hilly Region iii) Terai Region Mountain Region: It occupies 15% of the total land of Nepal. The mountain region of Nepal varies in altitude from 3300 m to 8848 m. The land above 5000 m is covered by snow all year round. The mountain region is not suitable for the cultivation of crops due to the extreme climate. Potatoes, barley and apples are few commonly cultivated crops in the mountain region. The population density in the mountain region is very low. Bhote, Sherpa, Thakali, Lepcha, Gurung, etc are the major ethnic groups living in the mountain region. Our Earth 123

The major occupation of the people in the mountain region includes- Medicinal herb collection, animal husbandry and mountain tourism. Hilly Region: The hilly region of Nepal occupies 68% of the total area of Nepal. The area between the Mountain in the north and the Terai in the south is called the Hilly region. The altitude in this region ranges from 610 m to 3300 m and its width ranges from 80 to 128 km from south to north. The Hilly region of Nepal includes Chure Hill and the Mahabharat Range. Chure Hill extends from an altitude of 610 m in the south to 1872 m in the north. The folded mountain which rises from 1500 m to 3660 m from the sea level is called Mahabharat Range. Beside Chure Hill and the Mahabharat Range, the Hilly region has a large natural diversity like hills, valleys, river basins, etc. There are different caste and ethnic groups in the hilly region. Rai and Limbu in the eastern hill and Brahmin, Chhetri, Newar, Magar, Dalit, Gurung, etc in the central and western hill are the major caste and ethnic groups. Potato, maize, millet, paddy, cardamom, ginger, orange, etc are cultivated in this region. Some big cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, Surkhet, etc are also located in this region. Terai Region: The plain area in the south of Nepal is called the Terai region. Its altitude ranges from 60 m to 610 m above sea level. It extends up to 25 km in the east and up to 32 km in the west. The Terai region is also called ‘Madhesh’ in Nepal. The plain land in between the Chure and Mahabharat Range is called Inner Madhesh. The Terai region of Nepal occupies 17% of the total land of Nepal. The land of Terai is flat and fertile. Producing crops and animal husbandry are the major occupations of the people in this region. This region is also known for different types of industries. People from different caste and ethnic groups like Brahmins, Rajput, Tharu, Chamar, Dhimal, Musahar, Yadav, Jhangad, Pasawan etc live in this region. 124 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

Activities a. Study the physical map of Nepal and locate the areas covered by Terai, Hill and Mountain. b. Draw a map of Nepal and label Terai, Hill and Mountain with different symbol or colour on it. Show your map to the class. Exercise 1. Answer the following questions: a. List four major characteristics that differentiates Terai and Mountain region. b. Write four major physical features of the hilly region. c. Write a letter to your friend describing the physical features of the region where you live. 2. Complete the following table: Physical Regions Caste/Ethnic Groups Major Crops Terai Hill Mountain 3. Draw an outline map of Nepal and show the distribution of following: - Sherpa settlement areas - Tharu settlement areas - Rai/Limbu settlement areas - Apple cultivation area - Rice cultivation area - Tea cultivation area Our Earth 125

Lesson NEPAL: A LAND OF DIVERSITY 4 Nepal is a small landlocked country in terms of area and location. It covers an area of 147,181 sq. km. However, the altitude of Nepal ranges from 60 m to 8848 m and includes the highest peak in the world. It is world’s 93rd largest country by area. The mountain range in north of Nepal has eight of the world’s ten tallest mountains. There are different types of land forms distributed from south to the north and across the country. Climate and natural vegetation varies as we move along south to north. The climate in the southern part is hot and warm while in the northern mountains it is very mild and cold. This geographical variation of Nepal has largely contributed to the development of its caste and ethnic diversities and their unique cultures. Nepal is home to a wide variety of ethnic groups, all speaking their own language and practicing their own culture and tradition. The social, economic, cultural, administrative and political diversities and the way of living of its people are also associated with Nepal’s physical diversity. 126 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

The major diversities of Nepal Bases of Diversity Description Terai (Plain), Hill and Mountain Geographical and Ecological variation according to different landforms Natural Diversity Tropical to very cold/freezing climate and diverse natural vegetation Agricultural Bio-diversity (different species of plants and animals) Diversity Diversity in agricultural crops and fruits in Terai, Hill and Mountain Different norms, values, customs and traditions Cultural Various art and architectures developed in different Diversity ages and by different cultures Unique cultural identity established by national heroes like Gautam Buddha, Bhrikuti, Arniko, Janak, etc Caste and Ethnic 125 castes of people living in the country, 59 Diversity indigenous nationalities with their own social and cultural characteristics Linguistic 123 languages are spoken in Nepal. Diversity Many national languages (mother tongues) in various communities/groups with a common Nepali language Religious There are different religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Diversity Kirant, Islam, Christianity, Jainism, Sikhism, Bahai, etc in Nepal. Similarly, people practice different rituals according to their religions. Social Diversity Different social identities of various castes/ethnic groups Diversity of language and culture There are the people with different economic status Class Diversity like the rich and the poor or higher, middle and poor class. People have adopted various economic activities and occupations. Our Earth 127

KEY TERMS Diversity : variety, mixture Heroes : persons who are admired by many people for doing something good or brave Tropical : found in tropics/hot region Variation : a change Activities a. Prepare a speech on the topic ‘Nepal: A land of Diversity’ and present it to the class. b. What diversities and specialties do you see in your area? Study any diversity and norms observed in your area and write a report on what you have found. Exercise 1. Answer the following questions: a. Describe the physical diversity of Nepal. b. Describe the natural diversity of Nepal with examples. c. What are the social and cultural diversities in Nepal? d. Write five specialties that identify Nepal to the world. e. “Nepal is small but resembles the world.” Justify the statement. 2. Write True for correct statement and False for incorrect statement. a. The climate of the Terai is hot whereas the mountain climate is temperate. b. There are people speaking various mother tongues in Nepal. c. All the people of Nepal are involved in an agriculture based occupation. d. The latest population census 2011 AD has identified 125 castes/ethnic groups and 123 languages in Nepal. Project Work Carry out a research project to study the geographical condition, relief, climate, vegetation and way of life including social, economic and cultural characteristics of your locality and prepare a report. For this project you can get the help of a resource person in your community. Search internet, use encyclopedias to work on our research project. 128 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

Lesson MAP WORK 5 A map is a representation of the whole earth or a part of it (continent, country, city or a village) in a reduced scale on a flat piece of paper. Use of maps began in approximately 3rd century. Today the use of maps has become very important. Modern technologies such as computers are used to create/draw maps. We can also view/display different type of maps of the world using internet technology. Use of maps in social studies is very important. Maps are of different types and are drawn for different purposes. They are used to identify and represent physical features (land), man-made structures (buildings, roads, etc.) or any administrative boundaries (Rural Municipalities, Municipalities, Districts, Provinces, etc.). For example, a political map shows boundaries between different countries, states, districts or other smaller political units. A physical map shows the relief or landforms of places or areas such as hills, plains, rivers, lakes and seas. All of these features, such as, boundaries, hills, rivers, etc should be clearly represented on a map so that a map reader can easily understands the information on the map. Beside physical and political maps, maps can also be categorized as relief, geographical and economic maps. Similarly, there are other types of maps like climate, soil distribution, transportation, historical, etc. This type of maps of any area which shows a particular theme or a group of themes is called a thematic map. The main objective of this map is to show the actual information about different facts of the area. It is difficult to show various geographical facts, environmental changes and socio-cultural features on a map. So, different symbols are used to represent such things on a map. Some facts and features which are shown on a map using symbols are: Human made things: temple, road, house, bridge, etc. Water bodies: river, lake, ocean, canal, etc. Land forms: hill, peak, plain, etc. Vegetations: forest, crops, etc. In this way, a map can be used to represent many things about any place on the surface of the earth. Information of any place can be quickly obtained from a Our Earth 129

map. Thus, it is always necessary to make a clear and readable map. In order to do so, certain signs, shadings, symbols and colours can be used. The four basic things required on a map are: 1. Title : A title tells its reader what the map is about. 2. Legend : A legend explains what each sign, shading, symbol or different colours used in the map represents. 3. Scale : A scale represents the relationship (or ratio) between distance on a map and the corresponding distance on the ground. For example, on a 1:100000 scale map, 1 cm on the map equals 1 km on the ground. 4. Direction Arrow (North Arrow): Direction arrow shows in which direction the map is oriented. It usually shows the north direction. Now, let’s draw the map of Nepal 1. Draw a rectangle of 10 centimeters length and 6 cm breadth. (You can make the double i.e. 20 cm ´ 10 cm if you have a larger sheet). 2. Divide the length of the rectangle into 4 parts (The 1st and the 4th parts should be 2 cm and the 2nd and the 3rd parts should be 3 cm) and the breadth into 3 equal parts with 2 cm in each part. The large rectangle shows the extent of the map of our country. So, look at it carefully and draw accordingly. 3. If the map is drawn inside the rectangle of 10 cm ´ 6 cm then the scale is 1 cm equals to 80 km and if the rectangle is double in size then the scale is 1 cm=40 km. Mark the scale on the side of your map. 130 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

Activities a. Draw a map of your Village or Town and show the place where your home is located. b. Draw a full page outline map of Nepal and divide it into seven provinces. c. Draw a full page outline map of Nepal and label the following facts on it with appropriate symbols: - Mt. Everest - Koshi river - Chitwan National Park - Lumbini - Dhangadi - Shey-phoksundo Lake - Mahakali river Exercise 1. Answer the following questions: a. What is a map? b. Define a thematic map. c. Why are map important? Write in four points. d. What are the basic things required on a map? Community Work Draw the map of your Village or Town. Show hills, rivers, agricultural land, forest road/trails, religions and historical centres, etc on it and represent it with appropriate symbols and colours. Our Earth 131

Lesson PHYSICAL CONDITION AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC LIFE 6 OF EUROPE Europe is the sixth largest continent in the world. It lies entirely in the Northern Hemisphere extending between 35° N to 73° N latitudes and 25° W to 65° E longitudes. It has total area of 10,525,000 sq km. A large part of the continent is located in the temperate zone and, therefore, it has a favourable climate for human habitation. Europe is surrounded by oceans and seas on three sides-the Arctic Ocean in the north, the Atlantic Ocean in the west and the Mediterranean and Black Sea on the south. The Ural Mountains separate Europe from Asia. There is a remarkable variation in the geography of Europe. It is also known as a continent of peninsulas. Based on the variation in land topography Europe is generally divided into three physical regions. They are: The North-Western Highland: It is extended across Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. This highland is formed by very old hard rocks. Scandinavia and Scotland are the one of the oldest lands on earth. The Great European Plain: It extends from Atlantic coasts in the south-west to the Ural Mountains in the north-east. The famous rivers of Europe like the Danube, Volga, Rhine, Elbe, etc are located in this region. The Southern Mountains and Plateaus: The southern mountains which form the Alpine mountain system are the Apennines (Italy) in the south, the Pyrenees and the Cant-Brian (Spain) in the west and southwest, the Dinaric Alps in Yugoslavia and the Pandas (Greece) in the southeast, Carpathian mountains in the northeast and Caucasus mountains in the east. The plateaus includes the Meseta Plateau (Spain and Portugal), the Central Plateau (France) and the Plateau of Bohemia. Climate and Natural Vegetation Most parts of Europe lie in temperate zone. So, Europe mostly experiences a temperate climate. However, there are parts of Europe where there is a variation in the climate and natural vegetation. Northern tip lies in a frigid zone and has an extremely cold climate so the northern part of Scandinavia experiences a cold/tundra climate. This part is covered by snow almost the entire year. The natural vegetation is very poor but does include mosses and lichens. Wild animals like polar bears and reindeer are commonly found here. 132 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

Southern part of Europe is warm and receives more rainfall in winter. The climate in the south is called a Mediterranean climate. As the summer is hot and dry, the trees are short with thick bark, small and oily leaves and long roots. The most common trees are olive, cork, lavender and laurel. Western part of Europe is warm in the summer and mild in the winter and receives rainfall all year due to the influence of seas and oceans. The British Isles, parts of Norway, Sweden and Denmark experience this climate. Both deciduous and coniferous vegetation are found in this region. Oak, ash, elm and birch are common deciduous trees. North-east parts of Europe experience an extreme climate. It is very hot in the summer and very cold in the winter. Temperate grassland (steppes) is found in the eastern part of Europe. Steppes are treeless grassland. The rainfall is not sufficient for the growth of trees. Europe: Major Facts 1. Area 10,525,000 sq. km. 2. Seas Mediterranean Sea, Caspian Sea, Black Sea, North Sea, Norwegian Sea, Baltic Sea, Aegean Sea, Adriatic Sea 3. Lakes Ladoga, Onega 4. Islands British Isles (UK), Iceland, Sardinia, Corsica, Sicily, Crete Alps, Pyrenees, Apennines, Dinaric Alps, Carpathians, 5. Mountains Transylvanian Mountains, Balkans, Caucasus, Urals. Mt Elbrus (5,630m) is the highest peak of Europe 6. Plateaus Plateau of Bohemia, Me seta Plateau (Spain and Portugal), Central Massif (France) Volga (longest river of Europe), Danube, Rhine, Po, 7. Rivers Dnieper, Don, Vistula, Elbe, Oder, Seine, Loire, Garrone, Duouro, Tagus London, Paris, Madrid, Antwerp, Amsterdam, 8. Important Cities Copenhagen, Oslo, Stockholm, Moscow, Frankfurt, Berlin, Warsaw, Venice, Athens, Riga, Prague, Vienna, Rome, Zurich, Budapest, Brussels, etc. 9. Largest country Russia of Europe 10. Smallest country Vatican of Europe Our Earth 133

EUROPE : Physical Map N ò 134 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

Our Earth EUROPE : Political Map N AFRICA 135

Economic Activities Europe is one of the most developed continents of the world. The economic activities are highly modernized. Only about ten percent of the population is engaged in agriculture. Due to winter rainfall the Mediterranean region is very suitable for the cultivation of citrus fruits like grapes, lime, lemon, etc. Spain, France, Italy and Greece produce large amount of fruits which is mostly used to make juice and wine and is exported to other parts. The Mediterranean region is also called ‘The Garden of the World’ because of its favourable climate to produce a large variety of fruits. Commercial cultivation of food crops like wheat and animal husbandry are developed in central and western parts of the continent. Likewise, industries, trade, fishing, mining, etc are highly developed in the European countries like Spain, Germany, England, France, Switzerland, Italy, Norway, Sweden, Netherland, etc. Transportation is well developed along the rivers which are extended up to the inner parts of the continent. The European countries have collectively formed the ‘European Union’ with a common currency called the ‘Euro’ for a harmonious and better economic development. It has made trade, business, and other economic transactions in the countries easy and comfortable. Social Life Europe is a small but a densely populated continent. The living standard of the people is comparatively high. Majority of the people are Christian and they follow Christianity. People of Asian and African origin are also permanently living in Europe. Life is very busy in Europe. Hence, they do not have enough time to celebrate many festivals like us. The European countries are advanced in health, education, arts and culture. Education and health facilities are very good in almost all the European countries. In some countries school education and health services are free of cost. Our country Nepal has developed a good diplomatic relation with many of the European countries and has been receiving both financial and technical assistance as well. Every year many European tourists visit Nepal which is also a means of publicity for Nepal to the world and also a source of income for the Nepalese. KEY TERMS Coniferous : cone bearing trees Deciduous : the vegetation/tree shed leaves in fall (season between summer and winter) Frigid : very cold/ice covered area Peninsula : an area of land that is surrounded by water in three sides 136 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

Activities a. Look at the Atlas or map of Europe and locate the following: Alps Mountain Range, Scandinavian highlands, Central low land/plain, Ural Mountains, Denmark, Greece, Italy, Moscow, Paris, Rome, London, North Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, Arctic Ocean, White Sea, Bay of Biscay, Gulf of Bothnia, Adriatic Sea, Baltic Sea, Black Sea, Caspian Sea, English Channel, Rhine River, Volga River, Danube River, Lake Onega, An English Speaking and Writing Country b. Make a list of European Countries mentioned in the lesson and find their Capital cities. c. Which countries of Europe have been helping Nepal? Find out what these countries have done for Nepal. Make a list of these countries. Take help from newspapers and other references. d. Look at the Atlas and write the names of 5 landlocked countries and 5 countries surrounded by the sea or ocean in Europe. Exercise 1. Answer the following questions: a. Describe briefly the physical features of Europe. b. Which part of Europe is very cold and why? c. Which part of Europe is called ‘The Garden of Europe’ and why? d. Discuss the economic and social condition of Europe. e. Why is Europe called a developed continent? f. What is the European Union? Why was it established? 2. Fill in the blanks. a. The continent of Europe lies entirely in the...........................hemisphere. b. Europe is one of the most..............................continents of the world. c. The................................Mountain separates Europe from Asia. d. The northern part of Europe lies in the Polar zone and has an extremely ...................climate. e. The western part of Europe is.............................in summer and mild in winter and receives...............................throughout the year. Community Work Meet the people who have visited Europe and ask them about Europe. You can also collect the information through media. And share the information in the class. Our Earth 137

Lesson PHYSICAL CONDITION AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC 7 LIFE OF AUSTRALIA Australia is the smallest continent. It is about six times smaller than Asia and about three times smaller than North America. Australia lies entirely in the southern hemisphere and extends between 12° S to 38° S latitudes and 114° E to 154° E longitudes. It is an island and, therefore, it is also known as the ‘Island Continent’. It is the flattest continent in the world. It consists of only one nation, making it the sixth largest continent in the world. New Zealand and other surrounding islands are also included in this continent. Australia is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean in the east, the Indian Ocean in the west and north and the Antarctica to its south. The Great Barrier Reef, which extends for about 2000 km parallel to the north-east coast of Australia, is the largest coral formation in the world. Ayers Rock, the famous high point on the western plateau of Australia, is the largest block of stone in the world. Australia is also known for its unique animals like the kangaroo. Australia: Major Facts 1. Area 7,690,000 sq. km. 2. Seas Tasman Sea, Timor Sea, Arafura Sea, Gulf of Carpentaria, Coral Sea, Great Australian Bight 3. Lakes Lake Eyre 4. Islands Tasmania 5. Mountains Great Dividing Range 6. Plateaus Western Plateau 7. Rivers Murray, Darling, Flinders 8. Important Cities Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Darwin, Canberra, Brisbane, Hobart Physical Condition There isn’t any major diversity in the physical features of Australia in comparison to the other continents. However, it is divided into three physical regions. They are: 138 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

AUSTRALIA - Physical Map Arnhem Peninsula N Land Timor Sea G Indian Kimberley rGeraeat tBDaivridr iinegr Ocean Plateau Great Sandy Desert Reef Range Great Victoria 867 m Uluru Desert (Ayers Rock) Cape Great Leeuwin Australian Bight Lake Eyre 0-8900 sq. km Murray-Darling Mt. Kosciuszko 3750 km (2229 m) Tasman Sea Our Earth 139

i) Western Plateau : It is a huge flat plain to the west of Australia. It occupies about half of the area of the continent. This part is made by very hard and old rocks. ii) Central Lowland : This part is extended from Gulf of Carpentaria in the north to the southern coast of the continent. It is made up of three lowlands, namely, the Carpentaria Lowlands, the Lake Eyre Basin and the Murray-Darling Basin. This is drained by the river-Flinders in the north and Murray- Darling, the biggest river of Australia in the South. iii) Eastern Highland : This is also known as the Great Dividing Range. It runs parallel to the east coast of Australia. This highland is younger than the Scandinavian Highland but older than the Himalaya and Alps Mountains. Climate and Natural Vegetation There is no similar type of climate in Australia. The climate here varies from one region to the other. In the northern coast, the climate is hot and wet in summer, and cold and dry in winter, whereas, in the south-east part of the continent it is hot-wet in summer and warm with little rain in winter. The western plateau experiences very hot and dry climates in summer, and cold in winter, whereas, the climate in the south-west and south-east of the continent is warm-wet in winter. The climate of Tasmania and New Zealand is very pleasant because of the influence of sea. Due to its location in the southern hemisphere, the seasons in Australia are opposite to ours. Tropical evergreen vegetation in the northern part, grasslands in the central low land, Mediterranean vegetations including eucalyptus and rubber trees in south east and south-west corners and desert vegetation in the western plateau are the major natural vegetations of Australia. Australia is rich in wildlife. The kangaroo is the unique and famous animal and is found only in Australia. Economic Activities Australia is economically prosperous and developed. It is a highly industrialized country in the southern hemisphere. Iron and steel, aluminum, motor vehicles and ship-building are the major industries of Australia. It is rich in natural resources. Australia is very rich in minerals and raw materials. Industries using the minerals like coal, gold, iron-ore, etc are well organized. Super Pit/Kalgoorlie and Coolgardie are the world famous gold mines in the western desert. 140 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

Australia is famous for sheep rearing for wool product and cattle rearing for beef and dairy products. Australia alone produces 30% of the world’s total wool and 95% of its total output is exported. Australia has good trade relations with the countries of the world. Its export items include wool, gold, sugar, dairy products, iron and steel to other countries. Social Life The population of Australia is small and unevenly distributed. About 85% of the people live in the big towns and cities located mostly in the south and south- east coastal areas. The living standard of the people in Australia is as high as any European countries. They have advanced health and education facilities. The people are mainly of European origins and Australian indigenous. The indigenous people are called Aborigine and their life style is of primitive type. Nowadays people from all around the world are immigrating to Australia. Nepal has a good relation with Australia and New Zealand. Many Nepalese students go there for higher studies and some of them are working there as well. Australia has contributed in many sectors for the development of Nepal. There is a significant contribution of Australia particularly in conservation and use of forest resource. AUSTRALIA Political Map AUSTRALIA WESTERN QUEENSLAND AUSTRALIA L. Eyre (North) Our Earth 141

Activities a. Locate the following in the map of Australia: Great Dividing Range, Australian Desert, Flinders Rivers, Murray Darling River, Ayers Rock, Tasmania Island, Gulf of Carpentaria, New Zealand, Pacific Ocean, Indian Ocean, Tropic of Capricorn, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, An area of Dense Population, Gold Mining Area b. What should Nepal do to carry out development works like Australia? Discuss and write. Exercise 1. Answer the following questions: a. Describe in brief the physical features of Australia? b. How is the climatic condition of Australia? Write in brief. c. Discuss the economic condition of Australia. d. Illustrate the social life of Australia in your own words. e. Which parts of Australia is densely populated? Why? f. “Australia is famous for the production of wool.” Why? Give reasons. Community Work There may be people who have visited Australia in your community. Interview them and collect the information about physical, economic and social condition of Australia from them and present it to the class. 142 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

Lesson CLIMATE CHANGE 8 The significant change in the average weather in due course of time on the earth or in any parts of it is called climate change. Climate change occurs due to the fluctuations in atmospheric temperature, wind flow, rainfall, etc. Climate change is a sudden change in the climatic pattern of the earth. It is an unusual change which results in abnormal change in rainfall, wind and environment patterns. This is mainly due to the rise in temperature of the atmosphere. There is a negative effect in the atmosphere due to excessive use of coal, petroleum products, firewood and natural gas. Similarly, industrial development has increased the emission of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, methane, sulphur dioxide, chlorofluro carbons, etc which can trap heat from the sun. All these gases have formed a layer in the upper atmosphere which absorbs more heat that results in rise in global temperature or global Cause of climate change warming. We can see its adverse effect in the form of unusual rainfall or melting snow or rising coastline. The trapping of heat in the earth’s atmosphere in called the greenhouse effect. Greenhouse effect raises the temperature of the atmosphere because the heat that comes through sun rays on the surface of the earth cannot travel back as it is absorbed by greenhouse gases. The atmosphere consists of gases like oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, methane, etc. These gases are in certain ratios or quantities in atmosphere. As some of these gases can retain more and some less temperature, the gases in the atmosphere gets fluctuated depending on changes in the amount of gases. According to the statistics, it is seen that gases like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, methane, etc are increasing in the atmosphere. These Our Earth 143

gases obstruct radiation reflecting back from the earth. It means, they either retain it with them or send it back to the earth. It means the solar radiation getting into space will be less than that is left on the earth. Hence, the temperature of the earth is slowly increasing because of this process. Thus, the gas disturbing the balance in exchange of radiation and causing climate change is called Green House Effect (GHE). KEY TERMS Greenhouse effect : warming of Earth’s atmosphere Greenhouse gas : gas that absorbs radiation Obstruct : prevent clear passage Activities a. Study and discuss articles and news reports on climate change in various newspapers, journals, etc. Point out the effects of climate change and measures that can be used to control climate change on the basis of your study and discussion. b. If you were living in the Himalayas, what could you do to reduce the effect of climate change? Discuss with your guardian and environment teacher and prepare an action plan on the basis of following points: 1. Work 2. Working procedure 3. Time Exercise 1. Answer the following questions: a. What is climate change? b. What is green House effect and global warming? c. What are the causes for increase in green House gases? d. Make a list of the causes of climatic change. 144 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

Lesson 9 IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE During the past 30 years (1970 to 2000 AD) the temperature of Nepal has been increased by 0.6 degree Celsius. Climate change has caused a rise in temperature, flood and drought, a negative impact on health and the deteriorating of the beauty of the planet earth. There are various impacts of climate change. Some of them are: M Our beautiful mountains have turned into a rocky and barren surface due to the melting of the snow. M Ice sheet and icebergs are over-melting and the level of sea is rising which will endanger the coastal areas and islands to submerge under water. M Loss of human life due to the outburst of glacial lake M Untimely ripening of seasonal fruits M The beauty of earth is deteriorating or it is causing destruction of biodiversity M Sources of water and rivers originating from the snow capped mountains are drying up. M Desertification M Causes fire in the forest Our Earth 145

M Irregularity in precipitation M Natural life cycle is disturbed. M Epidemic diseases spreading rapidly M Causes flood, soil erosion and landslide. Climate change is a burning and serious threat to the world community. Developed countries are more responsible for climate change than poor and developing countries. Especially, human carelessness is contributing to climate change. So, efforts should be made globally to mitigate the effects of climate change. Following are the important measures for it: Minimizing the effect of greenhouse gases by generating hydro-electricity and encouraging its use. And also focus on alternative sources of energy, such as, solar, wind, etc Reducing the use of coal, firewood and petroleum products Control factory and industrial pollutions Minimize the use of materials which increase harmful gases like chlorofluorocarbons, carbon dioxide, etc which releases greenhouse gases to the atmosphere. Stop deforestation and start afforestation with an increase focus towards conservation of biodiversity. Climate change is a subject of global concern. This is a serious threat to the least developed agricultural countries, mountainous regions, coastal areas and islands. So there have been collective efforts on the national and international levels to fight this problem. The Underwater Cabinet Meeting, 2009, in Maldives, the Cabinet Meeting of Nepal in the Base Camp of Sagarmatha-Kalapathhar, 2009, United Nations Conference for climate change, 2010 in Mexico etc are few of the examples of international efforts. The Mexico Conference has established a ‘Green Climate Fund’ and has committed to collect one hundred million dollars every year till 2020 AD. The major objective of this fund is to control the effect of climate change on poor countries. 146 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

KEY TERMS Biodiversity : the variety of plant and animal life in the world Deterioration : to become worse Drought : a long period of time when there is no rain Endanger : put at risk Mitigate : reduce, alleviate Precipitation : rainfall Submerge : go under water Activities a. Collect important articles, news report, pictures etc about climate change and its affects and paste them in the Scrap Boards of your school or classroom. b. Conduct a field study on the effect of climate change on your surrounding and prepare an article to be published in a newspaper. Collect information from agencies like ICIMOD for your write up. (www.icimod.org) Exercise 1. Answer the following questions: a. What are the various effects of climate change? Write any six effects. b. Why is climate change a serious threat to the least developed agricultural area, mountain region, and island countries? c. Write any four measures to minimize the effect of climate change. d. What efforts have been made to reduce the effects of climate change globally? Our Earth 147

Lesson DISASTER MANAGEMENT 10 Disaster is a sudden and devastating incident/event that causes great damage or loss of life due to natural or human made incidences/events. Disaster brings grief, pain and sorrow. A disaster can cause a loss of life and property and can create an adverse consequence. There may be deaths, injuries and causalities of humans and animals due to disaster. It requires a huge amount of resource for the management of these disasters. Here are the definitions of disaster according to: UNO: Disaster is a serious disruption of the functioning of community or a society causing widespread human, material, economic or environmental losses which exceeds the ability of the affected community or society to cope up using its own resources. Cambridge Dictionary: Disaster is an event which results in great harm, damage or death or serious difficulty. There are different forms of disasters like earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, floods, fires, epidemics, accidents, storms, terrorism, etc. A disaster costs more where there is poverty and lack of awareness. Here, we discuss about the disasters caused by cholera and accident. Causes of Cholera Lack of health facilities Lack of awareness among the people Unhealthy environment Unhygienic food Lack of clean hygiene and sanitation Irregular immunization and vaccination Superstitious beliefs Unmanaged settlement Sewage and Garbage Carelessness 148 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7

Causes of Accident Haphazard construction work Falling from a tree, hill, cliff or steep rocky area Fire and electric shock Carelessly crossing rivers/lakes which may cause drowning Road accidents Lack of awareness of safety habits Weak/deteriorating infrastructure Handling weapons carelessly and unskillfully Accident due to other disasters Epidemics and accidents are common disasters that occur frequently in our society. There is a huge loss of life and property due to these disasters. So, various preventive measures should be adopted to save ourselves from such disaster. In case of such disaster, proper and planned steps should be taken to Road Accident help people and prevent further damage. Helping effectively to mitigate the impact of disasters is known disaster management. Therefore, we all should be well informed about disaster and its management. KEY TERMS 149 Drowning : submerged into water Epidemic : fast spreading disease Haphazard : not organized well Our Earth

Activities a. What would you do if your friend falls from the balcony of the school or meet an accident in school? Discuss and write in few sentences. b. Prepare a news report about an accident which happened due to carelessness. Display it on the Bulletin Board. c. What should be done to prevent a disaster? Discuss in group and write a report. Exercise 1. Answer the following questions: a. What is a disaster? b. What are the different kinds of disasters? c. Mention the causes of disasters. d. Make a list of the causes of epidemics like cholera. e. What are the causes of accidents? Make a list. f. What is disaster management? g. Write any four causes of road accidents. 2. Write True for correct statement and False for incorrect statement. a. Disaster is a good consequence of any natural and human made incidents. b. Disasters cause loss of life and property. c. Lack of awareness is one of the major causes of disaster. d. Traffic accidents are very rare in Nepal. 150 SOCIAL STUDIES AND POPULATION EDUCATION - BOOK 7