HPE Book 10_2076 Edition

the country. In order to conserve the soil, we should not use chemical fertilizer, insecticides and pesticides randomly. We also need to protect grassland from overgrazing. Moreover, it is better to incorporate this issue in the curriculum in school and college education. C. Management of Waste Materials There should be proper management of waste materials for the conservation of environment. We should go through different steps of activities Forest conservation campaign like collection, classification, composting, incineration and proper disposal of wastes. It plays an important role for the management and conservation of the environment. D. Control of Pollution Environment pollution has reached extreme in the world. Our country is not the exceptional case in this issue. Now it is very common to see warning at public place as “air unfit for breathing”, “water unfit for drinking” and so on. Dust particles, garbage, smoke, wastewater and other disposable waste materials are the main agents of pollution. It is our prime responsibility to control these pollutants from the clean, safe and healthy environment. E. Public Awareness Unless the people are not aware about the need and importance of the environment, they will not be motivated for the conservation of the environment. So, for the conservation of the environment, people should realize its importance for healthy and productive life. In this context, awareness program should be carried out at local and national level. F. Management of Watershed Classification of solid wastes Watershed plays an important role for balancing the ecological process. It is essential for the survival and growth of the aquatic flora and fauna. In addition, it is also equally important for agriculture, industries, hydropower, fisheries, and other activities. It supplies water for drinking and other household chores. Therefore, there must conduct various programs for the proper management of watersheds at local and national level. We can do tree plantation on the bank of the watershed area. Watershed management Moreover, we should control water pollution, which helps to supply safe and clean water as per the requirement. Health, Population and Environment Education-10 101

Summary Ü Ecosystem is a basic functional unit consisting of both biotic and abiotic components, interacting and interdependent to each other. Ü We can observe that the ecosystem influences the food habit, economic activities and the way of life of the people living in those places. Similarly, it also influences the growth, expansion and development process of the living organisms. Ü Geographically, the Mountain region is divided into different sub-divisions such as: Main Himalaya, Outer Himalaya and Trans-Himalaya. Ü Geographically, the hilly region is divided into different sub-divisions such as: Midland hill, Mahabharata range and Siwalik range. Ü Geographically, the Terai region is divided into different sub-divisions such as: Southern Plain Terai and Inner-Terai (bhitri madhes). Ü There is less impact of development works and modernization on the mountain ecosystem in comparison to the hilly and Terai region due to difficult topography, geographical remoteness, weak base of development infrastructure, lack of industrial development and low population density. Ü The snow line begins at the altitude of 4,000 meter in the west and 5,000 meter in the eastern part of the Mountain region. Ü The area beyond the Main Himalaya is called Trans-Himalaya. It is also known as Bhot. This area remains dry throughout the year. Ü The Mountain region is important for animal husbandry, fruit farming, hydroelectricity, mountaineering, medicinal plants, etc. Ü The Hilly region is important for livestock farming, fruiticulture, vegetable farming, tourism, beekeeping, poultry, etc. Ü The Terai region is important for industries, crop farming, animal husbandry, poultry, fishery, jute, and sugarcane and oil seed cultivation. Ü According to Land Resource Mapping Project, 1986 AD, out of the total cultivable land of Nepal AD, 8.3% in Mountain, 40% in Hill and 51.7% in the Terai region’s land area are occupied by cultivable land. Ü Watershed plays an important role for balancing the ecological process. Ü The ultimate goal of environmental management is rational utilization of the environmental components for human welfare and productive life. Ü We should go through different steps of activities like collection, classification, composting, incineration and proper disposal of wastes. 102 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

EXERCISE A. Very short answer questions. 1. Which aspects are comprised to ecosystem? 2. What percentage of cultivable land is there in the mountain region? 3. What is the altitude range of hilly region of our country? 4. Which aspects of ecosystem do the festivals and food habits of the people indicate? 5. Which region of Nepal is more affected by modernization? 6. Write any two festivals that are celebrated in Terai region. 7. Mention the sub-division of Mountain region. 8. In which geographical region Baraha Kshethra lie? 9. At what altitude snow line exists in the eastern part of Nepal? B. Short answer questions. 1. Compare the socioeconomic characteristics of Mountain and Terai Region. 2. How does modernization affect the ecosystem? Explain with examples. 3. What is ecosystem? Explain its components. 4. How does conservation of wildlife help to protect the ecosystem? Justify with example. 5. Explain briefly the socioeconomic aspect of the place where you are living. 6. Compare the physical aspects of Hill and Terai Regions in any five points. 7. List any six community based local environment conservation programs and explain any two of them. 8. Explain the economic aspect of hilly region. 9. What type of human activities destroy the ecosystem of Terai Region? Explain. 10. Write any five measures for the conservation of cultural heritages of your country. C. Write differences between: 1. Physical aspects and biological aspect of the ecosystem 2. Biological aspects of Hill and Mountain region 3. Preservation and conservation of natural resources D. Write short notes on: 103 1. Soil conservation 2. Economic aspect of Terai Region Health, Population and Environment Education-10

3. Livestock farming 4. Utilization and conservation of forest resources E. Long answer questions. 1. Compare the ecosystem of the Mountain Region with that of the Terai Region. 2. Explain the ecosystem of the Hilly Region with the Terai Region with the suitable examples. 3. Compare the biological and physical aspects of the Hilly Region with the Mountain Region. Project Work Observe the development activities that are in operation in your locality. Discuss about the benefits and environmental implications of those activities with the community members of that place and prepare a report on the basis of the criteria that is given below: 1 Name of the development activities • ----------------------------------------------- • ----------------------------------------------- • ----------------------------------------------- • ----------------------------------------------- 2 Socio- economic benefits of that project • ----------------------------------------------- • ----------------------------------------------- 3 Impact of that project on environment • ----------------------------------------------- • ----------------------------------------------- • ----------------------------------------------- 4 Mitigating measures of impacts • ----------------------------------------------- • ----------------------------------------------- • ----------------------------------------------- 104 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

UNIT FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION AND QUALITY OF LIFE 5 Learning Achievement After completing this unit, students will be able to: Define quality of life and tell its importance. Explain the elements of quality of life. Demonstrate the interrelationship between quality of life and low quality of life. Explain the bases of quality of life. Mention various indicators of happy life. Analyze the status of HDI trend of the various countries of the world including SAARC countries. 5.1 Concept of Quality of Life and its Components 5.1.1 Introduction to Quality of Life The term “Quality” is derived from the Latin word “Qualitas” and its meaning is appropriate standard. Hence, the etymological meaning of quality of life is the overall standard of life of individual or members of the family or society. In general, quality of life is the general well-being of individuals and society. The term ‘quality of life’ is associated with comfort, productivity and prosperity of human life. But the term quality of life itself is a relative term so that different people from different socioeconomic, cultural and political background develop different perspectives and sense towards it. Hence, the concept of quality of life depends upon the sociocultural and economic background as well as personal felt needs, preferences and philosophy of life. Indeed, quality of life is a very complex phenomenon to translate in day to day family life since it is determined by the function of biophysical needs, psycho-social needs and personal aspirations. Thus, it is difficult to measure the level of satisfaction. It is a common phenomenon that even the persons with the same socioeconomic family background working in the same office or doing same business may have different sense towards quality of life. At the same time, when rich people are not satisfied with their life, the poor people who are passing through hardship of life may be living with smile and hopes. It is thus due to the variation in personal aspirations and perspectives, quality life can take different meaning to different people. But we Health, Population and Environment Education-10 105

must not forget that the quality life of family and society is impossible without satisfying the basic needs like food, clothes, housing, security, fresh air, safe and potable water, health service and education. Similarly, other various needs of the people such as physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs have to be fulfilled along with attainment of basic needs. Quality of life means the method of existence of life along with happiness and satisfaction from the fulfillment of basic needs and other social, cultural and psychological needs of the people. In addition, it is the sense of being pleased with what one has. According to the demographer, R.C. Sharma, “Quality of life is a very complex concept as it involves the satisfaction of the emotional needs and social aspirations of the community as society’s ability to meet the basic needs of food, clothing, housing, energy and space by itself ”. Similarly, the other scholar Bernard Berelson opined that “Quality of life is a state in which prosperity in place of poverty, education in place of ignorance, health in place of morbidity, adequacy of food articles, in place of hunger, adequacy of housing facilities in place of slums, environmental beauty in place of environmental deterioration and full opportunities for the next generation of children in place of current limitation”. In this context, we can say that quality of life is a complex relative term, used for maximization of comfort which includes both physical, social, economic and psychological dimensions of human life. And finally, we can assume that quality of life is the satisfaction of the various needs of people such as physical, psychological, spiritual on the one hand and consumption of necessary basic needs for survival on the other hand. Quality of life is proportionately related with the fulfillment of human needs. Those needs are described below: A. Biophysical Needs Physiological needs are also known as biological needs. The needs like air, water, food, rest and shelter are considered as physiological needs. They are also called as fundamental needs since they are essential for our survival. These needs are supposed to be fulfilled for healthy and quality of life. 106 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

B. Sociocultural Needs Fulfilment The needs which give individual exposure in the community and society are called social needs. The needs like education, transportation, communication, healthQuality of Life service, rituals and parties come under socio-cultural needs. They are needed to be fulfilled for the attainment of quality of life. C. Spiritual Needs The needs that keep person’s mind at peace and give relaxation are called spiritual needs. The needs like freedom to worship the gods by choice, freedom to believe in what is right, freedom to practice the belief without any restriction and honesty are the examples of spiritual needs. The fulfillment of these needs help to attain quality of life. D. Mental and Emotional Needs Mental and emotional needs also play important role for the attainment of quality of life. These needs include thoughts, understanding, love, affection, belongingness, honour, recreation, etc. We should put effort to satisfy these needs for the attainment of quality of life. Broadly, the needs are: i. Basic physiological needs: Food and nutrition, housing, clothing, sex, etc are considered as basic physiological needs. Spiritual Needs Freedom to worship the gods, honesty Freedom to practise beliefs without restriction Mental and Emotional Needs Thoughts, understanding, love, affection, belongingness, recreation, etc. Social Needs Education, transportation, communication, health service, working condition, etc. Biophysical Needs Air, water, shelter, food, rest, etc. Various Needs for Quality of Life Health, Population and Environment Education-10 107

ii. Socio-cultural needs: Education, health service and facilities, employment, transportation and communication, human right and freedom, recreation and entertainment, etc come under Socio-cultural needs. 5.1.2 Need and Importance of Quality of Life Quality of life is felt very essential and crucial for the prosperity of family life. Quality of life denotes the overall condition of life status of the family and its family members. There was less concern about quality of life but now individual, family, nation and the world have focused their attention on attainment of quality of life so that people can live happy, healthy and productive life. The ultimate goal of development and prosperity is after all to give comfort, happiness and satisfaction to the people. So, quality of life is mandatory in human life. Some of the importance of quality of life are mentioned below: A. Fulfillment of Basic Needs Basic needs can be easily fulfilled of those families where they are enjoying quality of life. If there is quality of life in the family, every member of independent age group can be involved in income generating activities and it provides a great momentum to fulfil the basic needs. At the same time, the families having quality of life are found with small family size. In this condition family is capable to fulfill all forms of basic needs. For example, family needs like quality foods, clothes, shelter as well as other additional needs are easily fulfilled if they are enjoying quality of life. B. Management of Health Services Sound health is the basic component of quality of life. In the absence of good health, there is difficulty in maintaining quality of life. The family having quality of life can easily get balanced diet, healthy settlement, seasonal clothing and so on. At the same time they can manage exercise and rest; eventually the family members can live healthy and prosperous life. The family having quality of life can manage A person getting health service budget for regular health checkup which is essential for sound health. It is difficult to manage the above mentioned provisions in the family having low quality of life. C. Attainment of Quality Education A family that is enjoying quality of life usually place education in high priority. Hence, the family members having quality of life have good access to education. Compared to ignorant people, educated people can solve the family problems wisely and are able 108 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

to get optimum satisfaction with minimum resources. As a result, family members can enjoy happy and productive life. It helps to maintain peace and prosperity in the family. In addition, educated family members can involve in income generating occupations which provide satisfaction to them. D. Environment for Women Empowerment Women empowerment is the process to make women educated, skilful, confident and competent in every sector. Women have been demonstrating considerable leadership quality in community and organizations as well as in public offices. However, the under representation of women in decision making position in the area of art, culture, sport, medicine, education, law and politics have prevented women from attaining quality of life. Family cannot meet its standard of quality of life if women are not empowered. Gender discrimination cannot give satisfaction and comfort to all individuals especially to females. If there is quality of life in the family, women are empowered and they are involved in different income generating activities and make way for themselves in decision making level. E. Facilities for Maternal and Child Welfare There will be provision of maternal and child welfare if there is quality of life in the family. Pregnant as well as postnatal mother need more diet, more care, and regular health checkups than normal period. But, it is possible only in the family having quality of life. For the proper care of mother and child, adequate family income as well as mutual understanding among the family members is required. At the same time, family members should have knowledge A mother with her new born baby about maternal and child welfare. Many infants and mothers are living poor lives due to lack of effective, affordable and reliable health services and facilities. To mitigate and control such problems, we should give emphasis for the attainment of quality of life. In this way, quality of life ensures maternal and child welfare to some extent. F. Opportunity of Income Generating Activities and Employment To expand the source of income generation, the family should have quality of life so that their family members can have sound health and work efficiently. They can attain necessary skills and trainings to adopt in the possible circumstances. They can have easy access to education. If they do not get job they can create self- employment activities and generate the source of income for the family. Health, Population and Environment Education-10 109

5.1.3 Elements of Quality of Life Quality of life is in fact a multidimensional discipline. To acquire quality of life, there should be fulfillment of various kinds of needs such as nutritious food, safe drinking water, clothing, education, health service, security, housing, adequate income sources, entertainment, freedom, honour, etc some of the fundamental elements of quality of life are explained below: A. Nutritious food Nutritious Food An important element of quality of life is nutritious food which helps physical, mental and intellectual development of the people. We need food for three purposes: i. Energy ii. Body building iii. Body protection A balanced diet which is essential for human being is made up of at least one food from each group. The balanced diet makes our body and mind healthy. When we lack nutritious and balanced food, we lose physical and mental efficiency. Malnutrition deteriorates physical and mental efficiency. Consequently, people become weak, powerless and incompetent. They also suffer from several kinds of diseases. Life becomes troublesome. Therefore, every members of the family have to get a balanced and nutritious diet regularly to maintain quality of life. B. Family Size Family size is also considered as one of the major elements of quality of life. A larger number of family members need more family needs, which cannot be easily fulfilled. On the other hand, if the family size is small, limited resources are also sufficient to fulfil the needs of the family members. But it is impossible in large family size. In a large size family, there is high possibility of misunderstanding, dissatisfaction and conflict among the family members. If the family size is large the limited sources should be distributed among the large family members which brings problem in maintaining quality of life. Hence, to attain quality of life, couple should be aware and accountable to maintain small family size. C. Health Health is an invaluable asset of human life. Healthy human power is essential for development of the society and the country. Healthy people can take part in different 110 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

gainful activities which help to acquire quality of life. Healthy people are physically fit and energetic so that they can increase their efficiency in work which increases productivity and helps to maintain quality of life. Unhealthy people cannot contribute towards their family and nation despite their willingness. Instead of this a large amount of family income needs to be spent in their treatment. Due to this, needs of the family members cannot be fulfilled and it becomes difficult to maintain quality of life in the family. So, health always should be in our priority for the attainment of quality of life. D. Sanitation Sanitation is control of all those factors in man’s physical environment which may cause adverse effect on his development. It normally includes drainage, safe drinking water, cleanliness of the houses and surrounding management of human excretal, as well as management of solid waste materials. Sanitation is the foundation of health, dignity and development. Access to sanitation is also recognized as a basic right of citizen. Health and Hygiene Despite this fact, the sanitation condition in our country is gloomy. Sanitation of the environment in fact, helps to attain quality of life. Everyday activities of the human being depend upon the environment. To enhance the standard of quality of life, change of behaviour of the people in hygiene and sanitation is a must. The surrounding of the house should be clean and public places like pond, temple and market should be free from pollution for attaining the quality of life. When the community is clean epidemic and communicable diseases have a very less chance to be spread. So, sanitation is mandatory for the achievement of quality of life. E. Education Education is also considered as an important factor of quality of life. It can overcome social evils in an easy manner. It helps to acquire quality of life since it produces skilled and trained human power which is useful for maintaining quality of life. At the same time, education teaches people to keep balance between income and expenditure. Moreover, educated people can fit anywhere in every situation. Education helps to maintain quality of life in the following ways. Ü Motivates people to keep balance between income and expenditure. Ü Creates awareness to the people. Ü Increases skill and work efficiency in the work of the people. Health, Population and Environment Education-10 111

Ü Can handle the family problems tactfully. Ü Can develop mutual understanding among the family members. Ü Provides knowledge of balance diet, hygiene and sanitation. Ü Encourages people for small and happy family. F. Security Kids busy in learning at school Security is also considered as one of the major elements of quality of life. Security plays an important role for making family secured and productive. If there is no guarantee of social security, people are compelled to live fearful life. Crime, like violence, murder, theft and robbery, create disorder in the society, which eventually become the sufficient cause of poor quality of life. So, security is also considered as an important factor of quality of life. G. Saving Security at gate Saving can be considered as another important element of quality of life. Saving at present is for the future. It provides financial support to attain quality of life in the old age too. Saving ensures quality of life to some extent. Saving is not an easy job. Well and farsighted plan is necessary to make saving. Saving helps a family in the following ways: Ü Develops habit to minimize the expenditure Ü Helps to attain quality of life Ü Helpful and useful in emergency Ü Utilization of money in productive areas Ü Motivates people to live according to the available resources H. Housing Housing is also one of the basic needs of a family which is a basic requirement to maintain quality of life. It protects us from cold, heat, rain, storm, wild animals and unfavourable weather. To have quality of life, a comfortable house with healthy rooms and apartments is necessary. If the rooms are congested, quality of life of the family declines. Therefore, the house should be managed according to the family size. 112 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

I. Social and Cultural Values The social and cultural values play significant role for the attainment of quality of life. Superstitious beliefs, gender discrimination, caste or race discrimination, untouchability and social domination deteriorate quality of life. For instance, some sociocultural values like: dowry system, alcohol consumption in feast and festivals, untouchability, isolation of women from decision making role, importance of son are still in practice Celebration of ritual in our society. They hinder the attainment of quality of life. To ensure quality of life, such unscientific and irrational practices should be eradicated from the society. We should adopt positive cultural values and practices in order to establish social justice, harmony and prosperity. J. Income Income of the family is an important element of the quality of life. Income increases living standard of the family and helps to fulfill needs and aspirations of the family members. When the income of the family is sound, family needs are easily fulfilled and eventually productivity of the family increases. Hence, sound income contributes the family to attain quality of life in the following areas: Ü Promotes the living standard of the family. Ü Maintains peace and harmony in the family. Ü Family needs are easily fulfilled. Ü Maintains harmonious relationship among the family members. Ü Develops the skills and productivity of the family members. K. Proper Spiritual Development Spiritual development is also considered as an important aspect of quality of life. It plays a crucial role in the overall development of an individual’s personality. A person with good spiritual development live his/ her life with high morale, honesty, self- Health, Population and Environment Education-10 113

discipline and hard work. These qualities of human beings are the foundation for the attainment of quality of life. 5.2 Bases of Quality of Life Quality of life is a complex concept. So, there is no single definition of quality of life. It is determined by the psychological and personal aspirations of individuals and their different levels of socioeconomic background. Despite the difficulties to find out exact bases of quality of life, some basic approaches are mentioned below: A. Basic Needs Oriented Approach The basic needs oriented approach is one of the major approaches in the measurement of quality of life, especially for the developing countries. This approach attempts to define the minimum resources necessary for the long term physical well-being in terms of consumption of goods. This approach was introduced by the International Labour Organization (ILO), in 1970 AD. Indeed, this approach was introduced to replace the traditional per capita income approach. According to this approach the minimum basic needs of individuals must be fulfilled for the measurement of quality of life. Furthermore, Noman Hicks and Paul Strefin developed the indicators to measure the fulfillment level of basic needs (1979 AD). In the context of Nepal, the government gave attention on the basic needs approach by setting the goal to fulfill the minimum basic needs of its citizen from the sixth five year plan (2037-2042 BS) onwards. The basic needs maintained by the government are given in the following table: Basic Needs of People According to the Government of Nepal • Food • Education • Housing • Employment • Safe drinking water • Improved sanitation services • Environmental sanitation • Medicine • Health services • Fresh air B. Physical Quality of Life Index (PQLI) Physical quality of life index is one of the major noneconomic measurement Index of quality of life. The PQLI was introduced by the sociologist, Morris D Morris in 1976 AD. It is the composite index of three indicators: (i.e. life expectancy at birth Index, infant mortality rate Index and literacy rate). Once a country’s performance in life expectancy index, infant mortality rate index and literacy rate have been computed, 114 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

the PQLI can be calculated by taking average weightage of those three index values (i.e. literacy rate, infant mortality index and life expectancy index). Indeed, PQLI is a means to measure the quality of life of the people living in the given place or country. The value of PQLI ranges between 1 to 100 digit. The countries having higher PQLI score is assumed as the countries enjoying better condition of quality of life and the countries having low PQLI score is assumed to be the country where people are living low quality of life. [For Additional Knowledge] PQLI Calculation Procedure Step 1: Find the literacy rate. Step 2: Find the infant mortality rate. Then calculate Infant Mortality Rate Index = (166 - infant mortality) × 0.625 Step 3: Find the life expectancy at birth. Then calculate Life Expectancy Index = (Life expectancy - 42) × 2.7 Step 4: Calculate PQLI = Literacy Rate + Infant Mortality Rate Index + Life Expectancy Index 3 C. Human Development Index (HDI) The concept of Human Development Index was developed by Pakistani economist Dr. Mahbub Ul Haq and an Indian economist Dr. Amartya Sen in 1990 AD. Human development index is one of the important bases for the measurement of quality of life. HDI can be computed with the help of Health Index, Education Index and Income Index. The HDI value always ranges between the digit 0 and 1, where 0 indicates the lowest HDI and 1 indicates the highest HDI. Therefore, the countries having high score of HDI are considered as the countries with high quality of life. On the other hand, the countries with low HDI score are known as the countries with poor quality of life. According to the recent provision of new methodology, the HDI is categorized into four levels such as: Level of Human Development (HDI) HDI Score Very High Human Development 0.800 - 1.000 High Human Development 0.700 - 0.799 Medium Human Development 0.551 - 0.699 Low Human Development 0.00 - 0.550 Since its inception period, 1990 AD, the UNDP has been continuously publishing annual HDI report. Nepal attained 138th rank with the score of 0.527 in 2006 AD. Similarly, in 2011 AD, Nepal was placed in 157th rank with the score of 0.458 out of the 187 countries and again maintained 157th 145th position with the score of 0.463 Health, Population and Environment Education-10 115

and 0.548 in the world in 2012 AD and 2014 AD respectively. Again in 2016 AD, Nepal has retained 144th rank with the score of 0.558. According to the classification of HDI category, Nepal falls in low human development group. The status of Nepal in HDI is illustrated by the table that is given below: Table 5.1: The trend of HDI in Nepal (2004 - 2016 AD) Years HDI (Rank) HDI (Score) 2004 140 0.504 2006 138 0.527 2011 157 0.458 2013 157 0.463 2014 145 0.548 2015 145 0.548 2016 144 0.558 Source: UNDP, HDI Report 2004-2016 AD The following table illustrates the HDI status of SAARC countries. Table 5.2: The Trend of HDI in SAARC (2013 - 2016 AD) HDI Rank Countries HDI Score 2013 2016 Sri Lanka 2013 2016 Maldives 92nd 73rd 0.715 0.766 India 104th 105th Bhutan 0.688 0.701 Bangladesh 136th 131st Nepal 0.554 0.624 Pakistan 140th 132nd Afghanistan 0.538 0.607 146th 139th 0.515 0.579 157th 144th 0.463 0.558 146th 147th 0.515 0.550 175th 169th 0.374 0.479 Source: UNDP, HDI Report 2013 AD and 2016 AD The above table reveals that Sri Lanka is the superior amongst the SAARC countries placing 92nd and 73rd rank in 2013 and 2016 AD respectively. It falls in the category of high human development countries and is followed by Maldives, India and Bhutan respectively. Among the SAARC countries, Afghanistan got the least position 175th and 169th ranks with the score of 0.374 and 0.479 according to the HDI report, 2013 AD and 2016 AD respectively. Furthermore, the top ten very High Human Development Countries for the year 2016 AD are illustrated by the following table: 116 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

Table 5.3: Human Development Index of the Top 10 Countries in the World, 2016 AD HDI Rank Countries HDI Score 1st Norway 0.949 2nd Australia 0.939 2nd Switzerland 0.939 3rd Germany 0.926 5th Denmark 0.925 5th Singapore 0.925 7th Netherlands 0.924 8th Ireland 0.923 9th Iceland 0.921 10th Canada 0.920 10 Singapore 0.912 Source: Human Development Report/UNDP, 2016 AD The above table reveals that, Norway has occupied the first rank with the score of 0.949 and followed by Australia, Switzerland and Germany respectively. 5.3 Happy Life Indicators The economic development rate and population growth rate are directly related with quality of life. The economic growth rate should be always more than the population growth rate for the attainment of quality of life. The low economic growth rate invites poor quality of life. The ultimate objective of every family is to ensure happy and prosperous life of its family members through welfare activities. The family members should change their attitude, behaviour and way of living positively. It helps to bring improvement in the status of social, economic, educational, spiritual and emotional aspects of the family members and possible to acquire quality of life. Some of the indicators of quality of life are explained below: A. Small Family Size The family size is also considered as an important factor of quality of life. If the family is small, the family needs can be fulfilled easily. Little income is sufficient to fulfil family needs like food, education, health services and clothing including other biophysical and other needs. All possible efforts should be utilized to make small family size for quality of life. For this, the couple must use the means of family planning and keep proper birth spacing as well in order to ensure quality of life in the family. B. Quality Education Education is one of the strong foundation of quality of life. Indeed, education helps to maintain quality of life in a family since it gives light on the ground reality of Health, Population and Environment Education-10 117

life and trains the family members for proper management of family. For instance, the educated people can get good job and opportunities and are able to manage available resources in a proper way. Educated person can understand the feeling of others and can treat them accordingly which is helpful to establish cooperation and understanding. On the other hand, it enables the family members for right decision to solve the day to day problems in the family. It also helps couples to discuss about the use of contraceptives and control family member’s size. Moreover, it also helps the family by providing family management skills to run the family smoothly. C. Marriage at Appropriate Age Proper age at marriage plays a vital role for the attainment of quality of life. If marriage is done at right time, the couples can manage family problems wisely. They are matured biologically, economically and socially to run the family. They can have knowledge and skills about the proper use of family planning measures (contraceptives like pills, condom, vasectomy, laparoscopy, etc). At the same time, they can involve in different income generating activities and can enhance economic condition of the family. On the other hand, they also understand the problems of large size family. Eventually, they can acquire sound health, education and are able to balance income and expenditure of the family without any difficulty. D. First Pregnancy at Appropriate Age The first pregnancy of the women after the age of 20 years is considered as the first pregnancy at the appropriate age. At this age, their reproductive organs well developed and reach their maturity. If the women get their first pregnancy at the appropriate age, they can complete their education and can be involved in income generating work also. If they get pregnancy at proper age, the couples can get maximum satisfaction of conjugal life. At the same time, they can take correct decision about birth spacing, family planning, proper parenthood, family income and expenditure and other issues. So, pregnancy at appropriate age provide foundation for the happy and prosperous family. E. Birth Spacing Birth spacing is also considered as an important determinant of quality of life. So, couples should plan for appropriate birth spacing for the planning of family. An interval of at least 4 or 5 years between the babies is considered as ideal birth spacing. If the couples follow proper birth spacing, mother will have good reproductive health and the child also gets adequate care and consequently both the mother and child will be physically, mentally and intellectually sound and strong. As a result, they can enjoy a healthy and productive life. 118 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

F. Health and Sanitation Nepali people are suffering from various kinds of environmental problems like: poor sanitation, lack of safe drinking water, improper management of solid waste, etc. As a result, the prevalence of communicable diseases like diarrhoea, worm infestation, hepatitis, typhoid, etc are very high. Furthermore; due to the wrong diet and lack of regular health check up, large number of infants, children and pregnant as well as lactating mothers are suffering from various kinds of nutrition deficiency diseases. These diseases and health problems create burden to family. It has also created challenge in the social and economic development. It ultimately hampers the degree of quality of life. Hence, if we keep our house, courtyard, street and public places neat and clean; our surrounding remains clean and healthy. We can make our surrounding clean and healthy through the proper management of public latrines, drainage and proper disposal of human excreta. As a result, family members can lead healthy, prosperous and productive life. It will further help the family to uplift the standard of quality of life. G. Nutritious Food Proper nutrition is equally important to the people of all age groups. Balance diet is essential for the sound health of the people. Therefore to achieve the optimum standard of quality of life, balanced set of nutritious food is beneficial. It also helps to build immunity power. Healthy people are more likely to maintain good economic status as they are fit for doing work. For this, every individual should have knowledge for proper utilization of locally available foods in every-day diet. So, every individual should put effort to maintain balanced diet using the available food material to enhance quality of life. H. Gender Equality One of the important current issue is gender equality, but what is gender? Simply speaking , gender is the social differences between females and males throughout the life cycle. It is deeply rooted in every culture. It is changeable over time and has wide variation both between and within cultures. “Gender” along with class and race, determines the role, power and resources for females and males in any society. Gender equality refers to the equal rights enjoyed by women, girls, boys and men. Equality does not mean that women and men are the same but the enjoyment of rights, opportunities and life chances, which are not limited for being born as a female or a male. If there is no space of gender equality it is not possible to acquire quality of life. In our social context, females are still treated as subordinate to male counterparts. They are also deprived of decision making role. Due to the tradition and superstitious beliefs; education, health and career of the females are not in priority. Therefore to maintain quality of life, gender equality is essential. It also helps to Health, Population and Environment Education-10 119

improve the living standard of the family in different ways. The difference between women empowerment and gender equality are as follow: Women Empowerment Gender Equality Ü Women empowerment refers to Ü Gender equality means equal improving their existing status right enjoyed by men and women through special provision of in social, political and economic education, training, health and opportunities. career development opportunities. Ü It is directed to uplift the status of Ü It helps to uplift the status of both women. male and female. Ü In women empowerment, all possible efforts are made to make Ü In gender equality, concern them empowered. on equality & prohibition and discrimination by gender is focused. I. Performance of Designated Role Performance of the designated role means to fulfil the duty and responsibility by the individual in the family, community, society or in the working institutions. When we are confined to family, the members have their responsibilities as per their position in the family. Moreover, if parents can provide the essential care to their family members children become responsible, obedient, honest, confident and hard working. If the designated roles are not performed by the family members; distrust, misunderstanding, jealousy and conflict may prevail in the family. Hence, all the members need to perform their designated roles in proper way in order to acquire quality of life. J. Saving Saving is also an important component of quality of life. It is important to a family for the fulfillment of basic needs. Saving can be used in income generating activities. Moreover, it is equally useful during casualties and emergency. After all, it will help in the upliftment of socio-economic status of the family. 5.4 Interrelationship between Quality of Life and Low Quality of Life Quality of life and low quality of life are two opposite conditions which we have to face in our everyday life. It means, both of them cannot exist once at a time. However, they are complimentary to each other. In which quality of life is taken as state of happiness and low quality of life is symbol of grief. 120 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

The interrelationship and difficult life between quality of life and low quality of life is shown in the following diagram: Quality of Life Saving Lack of saving Good income source of the family Low income and poverty Nutritious diet Unbalanced diet Small size of the family Large size family Security Lack of security Sanitation Problems of health and sanitation Sound health Elements of quality Elements of low High maternal and child mortality rate of life quality of life Interrelationship between quality of life and low quality of life In general understanding, quality of life moves upward in ascending order. It begins with the fulfilment of basic needs but low quality of life moves in descending order. According to the above diagram; to get quality of life, a person’s numerous biophysical, social and psychological needs to be fulfilled in systematic order. On the other hand, if these needs do not get fulfilled, the condition is called low quality of life. Therefore, in a family, quality of life and low quality of life cannot exist together at the same time. So, they are complementary to each other and mutually associated. Hence, our effort should remain for uplifting of standard of quality of life. Comparison Between Quality of Life and Low Quality of Life Quality of life (%) Low quality of life (%) Quality of life (%) Low quality of life (%) +100 -100 -100 +100 +80 -80 -80 +80 +60 -60 -60 +60 +40 -40 -40 +40 +20 -20 -20 +20 +0 -0 -0 +0 The above diagram clarifies that the standard of quality of life gets decreased with the elevation of low quality of life and vice versa. In this context, we can draw a conclusion that there is inverse relation between quality of life and low quality of life. So, we need to put all possible efforts to bring down the degree of low quality of life. There after, we can enjoy standard of quality of life. Health, Population and Environment Education-10 121

Summary Ü Quality of life is the life with the satisfaction of the various needs of the people such as psychological, spiritual and social needs in one hand and fulfillment of basic needs for survival on the other hand. Ü The degree of quality of life is precisely determined by the level of comfort, productivity, equity, prosperity and freedom. Ü The term ‘quality of life’ takes different meaning to different people due to the variation in personal aspiration and perspective towards it. Ü Quality of life is a very complex phenomenon since it is the outcome of biophysical needs, psycho-social needs and personal aspiration related needs. Ü The sense of quality of life differs from person to person and society to society due to the variation in their social, economic and political background and in their perspectives and aspirations as well. Ü Quality of life is impossible in the absence of the fulfillment of the survival needs and other psycho- social and individual aspirations. Ü The basic needs oriented approach: This approach was introduced by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in 1970 AD. This approach opines that the basic needs of the people or the minimum resources for their long term physical wellbeing must be fulfilled to measure quality of life. Ü According to the ILO, the basic need like: food, clothing, housing, education, health service, safe drinking water, improved toilet, productive work and medicine are the indicators for the measurement of quality of life. Ü Physical quality of life index (PQLI): It is a noneconomic measurement of quality of life. This approach was developed by the renown sociologist, Morris D. Morris in 1976 AD. Ü PQLI can be calculated with the formula: + Literacy Rate + Infant Mortality Rate Index Life Expectancy Index PQLI = 3 Ü Human development index (HDI) was introduced in 1990 AD by the Pakistani economist Dr. Mahabub Ul Haq and the Indian economist Dr. Amartya Sen and used by UNDP from the same year. Ü HDI is indeed a summary measure of the three dimensions of human development: i.e a long and healthy life (life expectancy), access to knowledge (education) and decent standard of living (income). Ü According to the recent methodology (2010 AD onwards), the HDI value is categorized into four levels i.e very high (0.800- 1.00), high (0.700 - 0.799), medium (0.551 -0.699), low (0 - 0.550). Ü Nepal has maintained 157th position among the 185 countries with the HDI score of 0.558 in 2016 AD. In the same year, Norway maintained the first position with the HDI score of 0.949. 122 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

EXERCISE A. Very short answer questions. 1. Define quality of life. 2. What is low quality of life? 3. Write any two advantages of quality of life. 4. Name any two physical needs of quality of life. 5. What type of needs of quality of life is education and health services? 6. Mention any two conditions of low quality of life. 7. Who introduced the concept of physical quality of life index? 8. When was the approach of basic needs developed? 9. Write two measures to attain quality of life. B. Short answer questions. 1. “Quality of life differs from family to family”. Justify with example. 2. “Quality of life is the cornerstone for prosperous and productive family life.” Justify. 3. Why do you think the quality of life does not have any absolute measurement yard stick? Explain with example. 4. Explain briefly any five elements that determine quality of life. 5. “Illiteracy is the main cause of low quality of life”. Justify it. 6. What is gender equality? Mention the role of women empowerment for quality of life. 7. Mention briefly about the role of marriage at appropriate age and birth spacing in ensuring quality of life. 8. Explain basic needs approach as one of the important bases for the measurement of quality of life. 9. Discuss the role of health and sanitation for quality of life. C. Write short notes on: 1. Recent status of SAARC countries in terms of human development index 2. Status of top ten countries in the world with reference to HDI 3. Women empowerment and gender equality D. Write differences: 123 1. Quality of life and low quality of life 2. PQLI and HDI Health, Population and Environment Education-10

3. Biophysical needs and social needs 4. Basic need and additional needs E. Long answer questions. 1. What is happy life indicator? Critically explain the different indicators of quality of life with suitable examples. 2. Classify Human Development Index? Critically analyze the trend of Human Development Index of the developed countries and the SAARC countries. 3. Give an introduction to happy life indicator and demonstrate any seven indicators of quality of life. Activity In Nepal about half of the population are compelled to live below absolute poverty line. It has created a decline in the standard of life of the Nepali people. The couples are not able to provide their children with an opportunity of good education. Topics of discussion i. Education is the main reason for low quality of life among the people. ii. Poverty is a major factor resulting into low quality of life in a family. iii. Education does not play any role in low quality of life of a family. The students in a class will be divided into various groups for discussion on the following topics: M Why does life become less qualitative? M What are the factors responsible for low quality of life? M Illiteracy and poverty are the reasons for low quality of life. Why? M What should be done for the attainment of quality of life? At the end, prepare a report on the basis of the aforementioned issues and present it in the class with the help of your subject teacher. Project Work Conduct a case study of any ten households of your locality in quality of life. Then present your findings in the class under the supervision of your subject teacher. 124 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

UNIT NATURAL RESOURCES AND BIODIVERSITY 6 Learning Achievement After completing this unit, students will be able to: Clarify the concept of biodiversity with its types. Mention the importance of biodiversity. Tell the various conservation measures of biodiversity. Explain the status of biodiversity of Nepal by ecological regions. Give introduction to some rare species of plants and animals of Nepal. List down the names of protected animals and birds of Nepal. Explain the adverse impact on biological resources and their mitigating measures. Elaborate biodiversity conservation program at national and local level. 6.1 Concept of Biodiversity There are numerous plants, animals and micro organisms on the Earth. They differ from each other in terms of their habitat, life cycle, reproduction, heredity, etc. Their diversity or variation is explained by biodiversity. Biodiversity, is the basis of life on the Earth and is needed to maintain ecosystem balance of the Earth. It influences all key ecosystem processes, including productivity, nutrient cycle, evolution and so on. These processes, in turn provide multiple benefits to mankind through the variety of ecosystem goods and services. Simply speaking, biodiversity connotes the meaning of richness in variety and variability of species of all living organisms in a given region. In other words, biodiversity can be considered as the totality of genes , species , and ecosystems in a region. According to Crouchar “biodiversity refers to the variability among living organisms from all sources including terrestrial, marine and other aquatic ecosystems and the ecological complexes of which they are a part”. In this context, we can conclude that biodiversity means the richness, variety or variability of all animals, plants and micro-organisms including the number and frequency of ecosystems in a particular area. Health, Population and Environment Education-10 125

Biodiversity can be classified into three different levels such as genetic diversity, species diversity and ecosystem diversity. As biodiversity is the sum of species diversity, genetic diversity and ecosystem diversity; it becomes our duty to give equal focus and priority to the species of animals and plants including their habitats. Without an intact ecosystem, no species can sustain. Therefore, priority needs to be given to the conservation and maintenance of healthy ecosystems. At present we are living in a time of unprecedented mass extinction of biological resources. Around the world, biological resources that took millions of years to develop are being devastated within few years by our inhuman activity. The main causes of present extinction is habitat destruction due to deforestation, overgrazing of grassland, draining wetlands and pollution. Another major cause of extinction is the over harvesting of plants and animals especially in the name of development works, urbanisation and industrialisation. Biodiversity is invaluable and important assets to human beings, for livelihood and sustainable living. They provide many things to us like fibers, fruits, vegetables, timber, medicine, fodder, oxygen and many more life supporting resources. Nepal is blessed with a rich diversity of landscapes, flora and fauna. Nepal’s diverse terrain encompasses a wide variety of ecosystems including tropical jungles, forested valleys, frozen mountain peaks and high altitude arid regions similar to the Tibetan plateau. In this situation, we can illustrate the types of biodiversity as follows: Species Genetic Ecosystem Diversity Diversity Diversity • The frequency • The genetic • The frequency and and variability variation among variety of distinct among the living the population of ecosystems in organisms by a single species a given area is species variation and between the called ecosystem in a geographical different species diversity. area is called is called genetic species diversity. diversity. The forest ecosystem, Elephant, Snow Leopards the cropland Tiger, Leopard, with individual ecosystem and the Sparrow, Parrot, coat, the puppies Ocean ecosystem Rhododendron, with different are the examples Lotus are the colours as of ecosystem examples of well as Snow diversity. species diversity. Leopards and Clouded Leopards encompasses the examples of genetic diversity. Types of Biodiversity 126 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

6.1.1 Ecosystem Diversity Ecosystem, generally is termed as the interrelationship and interdependency between biotic and abiotic components of the environment. In other words, the complex interaction and richness of the biological resources with the physical environment is known as ecosystem. There is a close relationship between the living beings and the physical environment. It develops a unique ecosystem in that place. We can see various types of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems in the world due to geographical variation. Ecosystem diversity can be defined as “the variety and frequency of distinct ecosystems including the variability of habitats, biotic communities and ecological process in the given place is called ecosystem diversity.” Ecosystem diversity helps to conserve and promote the biodiversity of a place. So, ecosystem diversity can be perceived as the diversity of a place at the level of ecosystem or it is the variety of ecosystems present in a given place. Nepal is endowed with 118 types of ecosystems, including 75 types of vegetations and 35 types of forest ecosystems (Ministry of Forest and Land Conservation-2014 AD). It is said that Nepal is in the 25th position in the world in terms of richness in biodiversity. Moreover, almost all types of ecosystems of the world except the desert and ocean ecosystems are found in this country. The variation in topography and soil type, slope and steepness, altitude, etc have made Nepal rich in ecosystem diversity. Because of ecosystem diversity; the existence of the various types of agro ecosystems, forest ecosystems, variability in rangeland ecosystems and wetland ecosystems are possible in this country. The variation in topography, slope of the land, altitude, climate and vegetation has created such a large number of ecosystems. 6.1.2 Species Diversity A. Concept of Species Diversity We know the Earth is the only one planet where living beings exist. So, it is called a living planet. There are millions of species of plants, animals, birds, microbes including human beings in the Earth. A species can be defined as a group of similar organisms which has distinct inheritable feature and are reproduced by interbreeding within the same group. In other words, species refers to a population of organisms whose members are able to interbreed freely under natural condition. The basic feature of species is reproduction that takes place within the population of the same species. They are different among one another. It is known as biodiversity. Biodiversity can be defined as “...the frequency and variability among the living organisms by species variation within a geographical area or habitat is called species diversity”. Health, Population and Environment Education-10 127

B. Status of Species Diversity in Nepal The total number of species in the world has been estimated ranging from 5 million to 30 million. Out of which approximately 1.7 million species of all kinds of living beings have been described to date. Nepal is quite rich in biodiversity due to sharp variation in its topography, climate and altitude. Nepal covers only 0.03% of the world’s total land area but it contains over 2.2% of the world’s flowering plants, 9.3% of the world’s birds, 2.6% of Algae and 4.5% of the mammals. Over 700 species of medicinal plants are identified in Nepal. Moreover, Nepal harbours large varieties of crops and plants which are still unexplored. For example, the breeding section in Khumaltar has about 200 different species of rice. Nepal is endowed with many beautiful endangered species such as the wild yak, one horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, red panda, snow leopard, barking deer, brown bear, wild water buffalo and so on. It has been said that Luinche (Red jungle fowl) is the genetic resource of all the chickens in the world. Moreover, many medicinal plants of Nepal have carried great importance for the treatment of fatal diseases. For instance the taxol of himalayan yew is used in cancer treatment. Similarly, Yarsagumba is widely used as a natural viagra, antibiotics and tonic. The status of species diversity of Nepal has been shown in the following table: Table 6.1: Status of Biodiversity in the World and Nepal Plant Group Number of Plant Species Animal Group Number of Animal Species Gymnosperm World Nepal Percent Mammals World Nepal Percent Angiosperm Birds 529 31 5.9 4,675 212 4.5 Mosses 2,31,638 6,973 3.0 Reptiles 10,000 867 8.7 Lichen 16,600 583 3.5 Amphibians 6,300 123 1.9 Algae >17,003 771 4.5 4,780 117 2.5 Fungi >40,000 1,001 2.5 Fish 10,000 230 2.3 Bryophytes >70,000 2,025 2.9 Butterfly 17,500 651 3.7 Pteridophytes >14,000 1,150 8.2 Spiders 39,490 175 0.4 10,369 534 5.1 Insects 5,052 0.7 Moths NA 3,958 2.5 Mollusks 1,60,000 217 0.3 Rotifers 85,000 61 2.8 Platyhelminthes 168 1.4 2,180 NA Source: Ministry of Forest and Land Conservation, Nepal National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, 2014-2020 (Pg:17) NA: Not Available 128 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

6.1.3 Genetic Diversity Genetic diversity can be defined as, the variation and variability found within the population of a single species and between the species among the living organisms in a given region is called genetic diversity. It is due to the variation of genetic materials within the nucleus of cells found in their body. There is variation among the species of plants and animals existing on the Earth. Genes transfer hereditary characters of all living beings in their offsprings. Thus, genetic diversity of living beings help to give space to biodiversity. Simply speaking, genetic diversity is the total variety of genetic characteristics in the genetic makeup of species. It denotes genetic variation between distinct population of the same species. In common sense, the variation in chromosomes, genes and DNA plays an important role to make each individual and species unique distinct to each other. 6.1.4 Importance of Biodiversity Biodiversity is very essential for human beings to fulfill their needs to survive. Biodiversity supplies ecological goods to human beings such as oxygen, waste assimilation, nutrient cycling, climate regulation, food and medicines. Biodiversity contributes to regulate the natural function and process like water cycle, flow of energy, recycling of carbon, nitrogen and oxygen cycle. Besides this, it also helps to keep balance in temperature, precipitation, moisture, productivity of soil, etc. Therefore, biodiversity has an important role in the human life and natural ecosystem. It plays a vital role for our healthy living. For instance, plants, animals and micro organism supply human with free ecological services such as generating soil, balancing atmospheric gasses and many other biological processes. The benefits and services provided by biodiversity are described as given below: Importance of Biodiversity Agro Farming 1. Agriculture Products Biodiversity provides suitable environment for the sustainable development of the agriculture sector. The crops like paddy, wheat, maize, barley, etc are the main sources of foods in Nepal. From the ancient period people have been using different species of flora and fauna from the wild and cultivating those biological resources in agriculture. So, the biodiversity provides opportunity for the development of agricultural products. Health, Population and Environment Education-10 129

2. Animal Products Poultry Farming Biodiversity provides space for the richness of genetic resources. Animals are the sources of milk, meat, eggs, labour and other materials. Moreover, fish is another source of food. Similarly, birds can be utilized for meat, feather, eggs, recreation and for other purposes. Some medicines can be prepared by using the animal products. All the animal products are the sources of biodiversity. 3. Vegetative Products Plants are the sources of food for the animals including human beings. Industries utilize various species of biological resources like; leaves, barks, fruits, fibres, flowers,and other valuable resources for the production of useful materials. Several species of mushrooms, medicinal plants, fruits, vegetables, crops and other plants Vegetable Farming can be commercialized to fulfil human needs. Plants have economic, religious as well as environmental value for the improvement of living standard of the people. 4. Improvement of Breeds Biodiversity provides an ample opportunity for the improvement of breeds. It gives wider scope for cross breeding among the plants and animals. Animals and plants are used for breeding to produce new hybrids. It is all done for yielding more and improving their quality. Wild animals, birds and other living beings are valuable sources that can be used for cross-breeding. It can help to improve productivity of animals and plants. The genetic resources of plants and animals can be crossed to generate new varieties of breeds. Introduction of hybrids help to produce disease resistant and high yielding genetic resources. 5. Soil Conservation Land is one of the important natural resources of the Earth. It is the source of many essential materials to humans and other living beings. However, soil erosion deteriorates the productivity and quality of land. In this situation, plants and vegetation help the land resources from erosion and landslide. Moreover, the vegetation and plants play an important role to preserve the moisture and nutrients for the maintenance of land and natural properties of the soil. 130 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

6. Watershed Conservation Watersheds The vegetation and plants contribute in the conservation of watersheds. The roots of the plants blot water in the soil and help to bring the water table up in the Earth. At the same time, the plants also contribute to slow down the evaporation process. Thus, eventually vegetation and plants get help for the conservation of watersheds. 7. Natural Beauty Nepal is endowed with enumerable varieties of species of the fauna and flora existing in its landscape. The mosaic of different plants and animals indeed increase the beauty of the nature. Nepal’s wealth of genetic diversity is the result of unique topography and sharp variation in temperature and climate. It has given us the boon of beautiful landscape and natural beauty. 8. Income Generation Biodiversity also plays an important role in the expansion of income generation sources. Proper way of preservation and commercialization of biological resources helps to promote the scope of income generation. For instance, the proper utilization of medicinal plants, crop yielding, and other products for commercial purpose may improve the living standard of communities and the nation. 9. Development of Tourism The places in and around the Mountain, Hill and Terai regions encompass their own natural and agricultural biodiversity. There are different species of plants, animals, and insects in these places. The richness and abundance of biodiversity have added natural beauty in various aspects. For instance, large number of tourist flow is observed in Chitwan National Park, Annapurna Conservation Area and Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. In this situation, flow of tourists provide ground for the development of tourism sector. After all, the development of eco-tourism helps the local people to improve their standard of living and provide ample opportunity for socioeconomic development of the nation. 10. Function of Natural Ecosystem Biodiversity plays an important role in the regulation of natural ecosystem. Different species of living organisms and nonliving components of the environment of the given habitats are inseparable parts in themselves. Biodiversity contributes to regulate the Health, Population and Environment Education-10 131

natural function and process like water cycle, flow of energy, recycling of carbon, nitrogen and oxygen cycle. Besides this, it also helps to keep balance in temperature, precipitation, moisture, productivity of soil, etc. Therefore, biodiversity has an important role in the human life and natural ecosystem. 11. Study and Research Innovative knowledge and information are the basic prerequisites for the exploration and study of biodiversity. It is essential to conduct research and study on the different aspects of biodiversity for the economic and social development of human kind. The knowledge, skills and informations obtained from the research and study should be utilized for the preservation and promotion of the species of living organisms and their habitats. The research and study in biodiversity would be a great help for the exploration of all kinds of flora and fauna. 12. Environmental Balance Environment is related with various aspects of biological, socio-cultural and physical components of the ecosystem. It is integrated to biological, natural, social, economic and physical aspects. They are related to human activities in social and cultural fields. Biological aspects keeps the whole environment alive with the disappearance or destruction of any aspect, the status of biological aspect of environment is disturbed. Biodiversity is essential to maintain the ecological balance in a given place. 6.1.5 Need of Conservation The conservation of biodiversity means the conservation of life supporting system of the whole living beings. Biodiversity has detrimental role for the existence of living organisms including human beings. The need of biodiversity conservation is described below: A. For the Existence of Living Beings The Earth is only a single living planet in the universe. It is the habitat for all of the living beings. Physical diversity of any of the country supports to make the diversity in plants, animals and small organisms. Some of the species are also used in the breeding purpose to yield a better variety. They should be preserved for the future generation too. B. For the Long-term Conservation of Resources Biodiversity is the source of agricultural, animal, herbal and other various kinds of genetic resources. People get necessary materials from it in order to make their livelihood. It is difficult to survive and manage livelihood in the absence of sufficient volume of biological resources. Due to its importance, we have to use biodiversity rationally. 132 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

C. Promotion and Preservation of Natural Scene We know that the variety and variability of animals and plants add beauty to the landscape. It has a great importance for the environmental conservation and socioeconomic development through eco-tourism. Such valuable gifts of nature should be given due respect by their proper use and conservation. Hence, biodiversity should be conserved since it adds natural scene. D. Economic and Social Development The flora and fauna of the environment are the sources of our livelihood. Animals and plants can be the good source of income. The necessary goods are available from the proper utilization of biodiversity. Proper conservation and utilization of biodiversity helps to provide raw materials and genetic resources for performing economic, social and industrial activities. E. Balance the Natural Process The different activities in ecosystem such as birth and death of the living being is a natural process. The function of plants, birds, animals and micro organisms have helped in automatic running of these activities. If the conservation of biodiversity is not done, properly the organisms will be affected by the unbalanced natural process. F. For Study and Research Adequate study and research on biodiversity expands our existing knowledge about the values and contribution of biodiversity in human’s life and the total ecological system as well. With the help of study and research, we can know about the usefulness of different varieties of biological resources for different purposes. It is also possible to know the causes of depletion of biodiversity and measures to control them. At the same time, research study helps to identify and explore new species and their usefulness. We can conclude the need of conservation of biodiversity in the following points: Conservation of biodiversity after all helps in the protection of the existence of living beings. It explores the sustainability of resources. It promotes the natural scenic beauty. It maintains the balance in natural process. It helps for the socioeconomic development of the country. It provides field for study and research. It provides varieties of medicines against the diseases. It supports for the regulation and balance of ecological process. Health, Population and Environment Education-10 133

6.1.6 Conservation Measures of Biodiversity A. Information and Knowledge of Biodiversity Information about biological diversity plays and important role for the conservation of biodiversity. Therefore, local people of each region must get information on biodiversity. Their role on the conservation program will be clear when they know the importance of biodiversity. It is essential to have knowledge about the status of the plants and animals. At the same time we should know about the biodiversity of the geographical region. According to the status of plants and animals, their causes of depletion, plans and policies should be formulated for their conservation. B. Public Private Partnership Biodiversity conservation programs should be implemented in association with local organizations. Local agencies like VDC, NGO, youth clubs and community people should conduct the participatory programs for the conservation of biodiversity. Local people are the consumers and conservers of the resources. Thus, their active participation helps to preserve the biodiversity. So there should be coordination between community and the institutional organizations for the sustainable use and conservation of the biological resources. C. Promotion of Religious Value for the Conservation We should be able to utilize our religious and cultural tradition as a useful tool in biodiversity conservation. Peepal, Bar, Bel, Lotus, Tulsi and different types of flowers have important place in our religion and culture. Animals like Tiger, Elephant, Deer, and Peacock are also important from religious point of view. Thus our religious and cultural traditions should be promoted to conserve the biodiversity. D. Active Role of Local Agencies It is not possible to carry out all activities from the central level. So, the local level organizations like eco clubs, local level professional organizations, community based organizations and local level political parties can play important role for the conservation of biological resources in their locality. They can conduct awareness campaign, plantation program, forest conservation program, etc. The Self Governance Act, 2055 BS has given the conservation authority to the VDC and Municipalities. E. Focus on Sustainable Use The feeling of conservation of the biological resources not only for the present generation but also for the future generation can help in the sustainable use of the biological resources. The need, importance and sustainable use of the biological resources need to be explained to each and every individual in the community. Hence, biological resources can be used for income generating purposes without 134 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

deteriorating their existing quantity and quality. In this context, some portion of the income can be utilized for the conservation of the biodiversity. We can apply the Re- use, Recycle, and Reduction principle in our day to day life so that there will be proper management of available resources. F. Establishment and Management of Protected Areas The biodiversity can be protected through Ex-situ and In-situ conservation measures. The biological resources which are rare and vulnerable can be protected in their own natural habitat which is known as In-situ conservation. Similarly, the endangered species of the biodiversity can be protected in the Ex-situ like botanical garden, zoo, sanctuary, nursery, herbarium, etc. G. Strict Implementation of Law Conservation laws are essential to conserve biodiversity with their effective implementation. Awareness programs are to be conducted to make the people know about environment conservation rules and laws. This effective execution of laws controls people from smuggling and poaching of the resources and contribute to preserve biodiversity. H. Change in Consumption Pattern People are exploiting the resources indiscriminately. It results in the destruction of biodiversity. Thus, conservation attitude should be followed while utilizing the resources. Rational use of resources helps the people to meet their present needs without hampering the desires of future generation. I. Commercialization Local people should be educated about the importance of biodiversity and their ways of utilization. Biodiversity can be utilized in income generation but while doing so their quantity and regeneration process shouldn’t be disturbed. Some portion of the income generated by those biological resources should be used to conserve biodiversity. J. Conservation Friendly Attitude and Activities Biodiversity is important to us since each species plays specialized role in maintaining ecological balance. So, people should develop positive attitude and behaviour towards the sustainability of biodiversity. For this, we must internalize conservation attitude while utilizing the biological resources to sustain ecological balance. It is possible to promote attitude of the people towards the conservation friendly activities through discussion, TV and Radio programs, drama, poster, pamphlet and formal education program. Health, Population and Environment Education-10 135

6.2 Biodiversity by Ecological Belt Nepal’s biogeography setting and climatic variations provide a unique habitat for the growth of different biological species in a small area of 1,47,181 square kilometer. Hence, one could see the variation in biological species within a minimal elevation differences. The country occupies only 0.03 percent of the total land area of the world but it harbours about 2 percent of the world’s flowering plants, 5 percent of bryophytes and 3.4 percent of pteridophytes. These examples indicate the richness of Nepal in biodiversity. The country has been divided into three ecological regions namely, Mountain, Hill and Terai Region. Each region has different, distinct environment and ecological process due to the geographical and climatic variation. The biodiversity in different geographical regions are mentioned as follow: A. Terai Region Terai region lies in the southern part of Nepal. This region has occupied about 23% of the total land area of the country. The climate is hot and suitable for agriculture especially for the production of paddy, wheat, sugarcane, jute, oil seeds, etc. It is the granary basket of Nepal. Biodiversity of this region are mentioned in the following points: The Terai region has tropical evergreen forest and monsoon type of vegetation. Similarly, Harro, Barro, Amala, Asuro, Pipal are the medicinal plants of Terai region. Sal, Sisou, Simal, Khayar, Pipal, Jamun are the trees found here. As the soil is alluvial and fertile people cultivate food crops like; Maize, Rice, Wheat and cash crops like; Pulse, Sugarcane, Jute, Tobacco, etc. This region is the habitat for the animals like Bengal tiger, Asiatic elephant, One- Horned Rhinoceros, Common Leopard, Spotted Deer, Wolf, Ghariyal, etc. This region is suitable habitat for Peacock, Crane, Falcon, Eagle and other birds. Different species of fish like Asala, Kauwai, Jhinge Machha, Rahu, Common Carp, Grass Carp, Silver Carp, etc are also found in the streams, rivers and ponds of Terai region. B. Hill Region Geographically, Hilly region lies in the mid of Mountain and Terai region. This region has occupied about 42% of the total land area of the country. This region is rich in biodiversity due to the great variation in physical features and altitudinal elevation as well as diverse climate within a small area. This region has large range of ecosystem and micro-habitats. Temperate and mixed forest are found in this region. Biodiversity of this region are mentioned in the following points: Rani Salla, Dhupi Salla, Chilaune, Gobre Salla, Rhododendrons, Devdar and Katus are the forest trees that are abundantly found in this region. 136 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

The agricultural products like Maize, Barley, Potato, Buckwheat, Millet, Paddy, Soyabean, Wheat, etc are grown in this region. Fruits like Mango, Pear, Orange, Lemon and banana are also abundantly found in this region. Medicinal plants like; Amala (Indian Goosberry), Allo, Chandan, Chiraito, Berbery (Chutro) Timur, Cinnamom, Pakhanbed, etc are found in this region. The wild animals such as Sloth Bear, Clouded Leopard, Barking Deer, Leopard Cat, Rhesus Monkey, Wild Cat, Chital, etc are found in this region. This region is also famous for various species of birds like Kalij, Kite, Dove, Black Buck, Eagle, Falcon, Parrot, Crane, Luiche, etc. Different species of fish like Asala, Jalkapur, Tite Machha, etc can survive in the ponds, streams and rivers of this region. C. Mountain Region The Mountain region lies in the extreme northern part of Nepal. This region occupies about 35% of the total land area of the country. The topography of this region is rough. There are mid hills, small valleys, tars, basins and gorges in this region. High mountains covered with snow are also found here. The climate is very cold in this region. However this region is very cold the species of flora and fauna which can adapt in that climate are found in adequate number. Biodiversity of this region are mentioned in the following points: The evergreen coniferous alpine forest is found in this region. The tree species like Rani Salla, Dhupi Salla, Jhuse Salla, Thigure Salla, Burch, Gobre Salla, Rhododendron, Devdar, Maple, Fir, etc are found in this region. The medicinal plants like Timur, Panch Aunle, Padamchal, Yarshagumba, Jatamasi, Bikhama, Pakhanbed, Kutki, Atis, Guchhi Chayu, etc are found in this region. Agriculture production is limited because of cold climate and lack of fertile soil. However, people cultivate Potato, Buckwheat, Barley, Maize, Millet, Uwa, etc in this region. The fruits like Apple, Lemon, Orange and other citrus fruits are also cultivated in this region. Yak, Chauri, Sheep, Tibetan Goat, Horse, Dog, Mule are the domestic animals that are abundantly found in this region. The birds like Danphe, Munal, Kalij,Koklas, Chilme, Chir, etc are found in this region. Assamese Monkey, Jharal, Ghorai, Musk Deer, Red Panda, Wild Yak, Black Beer, Snow Leopard are the wild animals found in this region. Similarly, Cauliflower, Cabbage, Carrot, Spinach, Garlic, Radish, etc are the major vegetables of this region. Health, Population and Environment Education-10 137

6.3 Rare Animals and Plants 6.3.1 Introduction of Rareness of Plants and Animals The situation of species that have small total number due to limited geographical range or low population density and not at vulnerable or endangered stage at present but are at risk is called rareness. A large number of plants and animals including small organisms are in threat due to human activities. Food and habitat of animals are being destroyed due to uncontrolled human activities. Rareness of animals and plants are considered as the condition in which their number is not sufficient and under the threat of danger in comparison of other species. There are 867 species of birds that are found in Nepal in which 31 species are in the endangered list in the world. According to the Ministry of Forest and Land Conservation (2014 AD), 9 species of vegetation, 55 species of mammals, 149 species of birds 64 species of amphibians and 21 species of fish are enlisted in the endangered stage by IUCN I its Red Data Book. At the same time the government of Nepal has declared 27 species of mammals, 9 species of birds, 14 species of angiosperms and 4 species of gymnosperms as protected species. If present human activities continue, it will move to the condition of vulnerable stage or in endanger stage. Some of the conditions to consider the plants and animals to be rare are mentioned as follows: e If plants and animals found in our country are very less in number in comparison to other parts of the world, they are considered as rare plants or animals. For example; one horned rhinoceros, bengal tiger, giant pied hornbill, etc. e Similarly, plants and animals which were more in number in the past but has decreased at present and are having considerably very small population, they are also known as rare plants and animals. For example; the number of one horned rhinoceros has decreased at present. Therefore it is a rare animal. 6.3.2 Common Causes of Rareness of Plants and Animals Human beings need to carry out various activities on the environment. Their activities may cause the plants and animals rare, if conservation measures are not to become adopted in time. Destruction of habitats, climate change and pressure from exotic species are the main causes of their rareness. Some of the causes of rareness of plants and animals are listed below: e Acid rain e Disease e Poaching e Deforestation e Destruction of habitats e Invasion of exotic species 138 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

e Habitat fragmentation e Pollution and habitat degradation e Global and regional climate change e Mutation in the living organisms e Over exploitation of biological resources e Natural calamities like earthquake, volcano, landslide, flood, etc e Forest fire and explosion bombs, nuclear power and chemicals e Natural calamities like earthquake, volcano, landslide, flood, etc e Unnecessary breeding of new species of vegetation and animals without proper research and scientific study A. Status of Protected Animals Some of the protected animals and birds of Nepal are described below: 1. Clouded Leopard (Dhwase Chituwa) Clouded Leopard is an endangered mammal of Nepal. Its scientific name is pardofelis nebular. It has a long body and tail and short limbs. There are brown spots with white on its pale grey to yellowish brown coat. There are few spots on head, leg and tail. Total length of an adult male is 0.8 to 0.9 m and weight around 18 to 25 kg. Its upper canine teeth Dhwase Chituwa (Clouded Leopard) are quite large. They are skilful in climbing trees; occasionally jumps from one tree to another. Their life span is believed to be for 12-17 years in average. The clouded leopard is reported to inhabit in deciduous forests. They prey upon jungle-fowl, deer, wild boar, monkeys, hares and small rodents, The gestation period is 3-4 months. One to five cubs are produced at a time. Generally caves and hollow tree trunks are used for baby issue. They are found in Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan, India, and Burma, The distribution of clouded leopard in Nepal is poorly known. They live in the forests at the elevation of up to 3,500 meter. They spend much of their life in trees. The social behaviour of clouded leopards is virtually unknown. They are, however, thought to be solitary animals. And though they are mostly nocturnal, evidence has shown them to be active during some periods of the day. Rapid habitat loss due to deforestation and illegal hunting for traditional Chinese medicines demand for its beautiful skin are the main causes of decline of clouded leopard population as well Health, Population and Environment Education-10 139

as. It is protected in Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area, Lamtang National Park and Annapurna Conservation Area. Monograph of Clouded Leopard Scientific name : Pardofelis nebular Common Name : Common Leopard (English) Dhwase Chituwa (Nepali) Weight : Around 18-25 kg Height : Around 0.8 to 0.9 m Gestation period : 3-4 months Life span : 12-17 years Litter size : 1-5 Diet : Jungle fowl, deer, wild boar, monkey, hare and small rodents. Species Description : Long body and tail with short legs, brown spots with white on its pale grey brown coat, few spots on head, legs and tail Conservation Status : Endangered National Distribution : Hill forest distribution pattern is poorly known Distribution outside Nepal : India, Myanmar, Bhutan Main Threats: M Poaching and illegal trade M Reduction in prey base M Habitat loss 2. Red Panda (Habre) The scientific name of Red Panda is Ailurus fulgnes. It is one of the rare animals of Nepal found at the altitude between 1,800- 3,800 meter in the dense grass and bamboo area. It is slightly larger than a domestic cat. It is also called lesser panda or red cat-bear. It has reddish brown fur with distinct white marks on its face and tail. It has a very long Habre (Red Panda) fluffy tail and small ears. Its weight is 3 to 6 kg. Its life span ranges between 8 to 12 years. It is a solitary animal, mainly active from dusk to dawn, and is largely sedentary 140 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

during the day. It has gestation period with roughly 4 to 5 months. It also has small litters, producing about two to four on average and are born in the late spring and summer. They live only in the temperate forests, in the foothills of the Himalayas. A bamboo understory grows in these forests provides the bulk of red panda’s diet. The population continues to decline and is threatened by habitat loss poaching and inbreeding depression. Red pandas have a large range that extends from western Nepal to northern India, China, Bhutan, Laos and Myanmar. It is estimated that there would be about 2,400 population in the world and about 200 in Nepal. It is protected in Langtang National Park, Sagarmatha National Park, Rara National Park, Makalu Barun National Park and Conservation Area. Monograph of Red pan Scientific name : Ailurus fulgens Common Name : Red Panda (English); Habre, Punde Kundo (Nepali) Weight : Around 3 to 6 kg Height : Around 0.3 to 0.5 m Gestation period : 4-5 months Life span : 8-12 years Litter size : 2-4 Species Description : Reddish brown colour coat on the body, with white snout, inner ears and cheek patches. Dark brown or black legs and paws. Bushy tail with rings of alternating light dark red colour Diet : Bamboo shoots, bamboo leaves, fallen fruits, etc Conservation Status : Endangered National Population Size : Around 200 National Distribution : Annapurna Conservation Area, Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, Makalu- Barun National Park, Manaslu Conservation Area, Rara National Park, Sagarmatha National Park, Lantang National Park (1,800-3,800 meter) Distribution outside Nepal : India, China, Bhutan, Laos and Myanmar Main Threats: M Habitat loss M Forest fire M Poaching M Injury and death caused by local dogs Health, Population and Environment Education-10 141

3. One-horned Rhinoceros (Ek Shinge Gaida) One-horned rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) is the second largest terrestrial mammal, with a height of 1.1 to 1.7 m and a weight of about 2,000 to 2,500 kg. Now, there are around 3,200 one horned rhinos left in the world. They are found in alluvial plain grasslands, where the grass can grow tall, and in the adjacent swamps and forests. However, as the habitat of rhinos is diminishing due to human activities, rhinos are now Ek Shinge Gaida (One-horned Rhinoceros) often found in cultivated areas, pastures and modified woodlands. In addition to increasing loss of habitat, another major threat to the rhino is poaching. In Nepal, it is found in Chitwan National park, Bardia National Park and Suklaphant Conservation Area. Nepal Rhino Count in 2015 AD recorded 645 individuals in Nepal. It is classified by the IUCN Red Data Book as “endangered”, the category belonging to animals facing a very high risk of extinction in the near future. Monograph of One horned Rhino Scientific name : Rhinoceros unicornis Common Name : Greater One-horned Rhino (English); Gaida (Nepali) Weight : Around 2,000 to 2,500 kg Height : Around 1.1 to 1.7 m Gestation period : 15-16 months Life span : 50 years Litter size : One Species Description : Skin is hairless and of grey colour. Large folds of skin across the flank of the shoulder. It has a single black horn about 20-60 cm long Diet : Its diet consists almost entirely of grasses, but it also eats leaves, branches of shrubs and trees, fruit and aquatic plants Conservation Status : Endangered National Population Size : 645 National Distribution : Bardia National Park, Chitwan National Park and Shuklaphanta and Parsa Wildlife Reserve Distribution outside Nepal : India and Srilanka 142 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

Main Threats: M Poaching for trade in body parts mainly horn, skin, foot nail (Khur) M Deforestation and Habitat loss M Human-wildlife conflict 4. Bengal Tiger (Pate Bagh) Pate Bagh (Bengal Tiger) Bengal tiger is one of the most beautiful terrestrial mammal on the Earth. The scientific name of Bengal tiger is panthera tigris. An adult Bengal tiger has got the height of one meter and weighs about 130 to 200 kg. It has got black spots with stripes in its body. It can give birth to two to six cubs at a time. They are found in the tropical and sub-tropical dense forest of Nepal, India, Bhutan, Sri lanka, and Bangladesh. It is in the endangered category according to the Red Data Book of IUCN. It is a protected animal in Nepal. In Nepal, it is found in the Terai forest. Chitwan National Park, Parsa Wildlife Reserve, Baridya National Park and Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve are the most favourable habitat of Bengal tiger. Such tiger is found in the dense forest, grassland and the areas with enough water. In 2013 AD, 198 Bengal tigers were enumerated in Nepal. Illegal export of its valuable organs is the main cause of its rareness. Deer, boar are the sources of its food. It lives for about fifteen years. Monograph of Bengal Tiger Scientific name : Panthera tigris Common Name : Royal Bengal Tiger (English); Bagh (Nepali) Weight : Around 130-200 kg Height : Around 0.9 meter tall Gestation period : 103 days Life span : 20 years Litter size : 2-6 Diet : The main diet consists of medium to large ungulates such as Wild Boar, Chital, Hog Deer, Sambar and will also predate on livestock Species Description : Orange coat with black stripes. The back of the ears are black with white spot. Long banded tail and white undersides Conservation Status : Endangered Health, Population and Environment Education-10 143

National Population Size : Ranges between 124 to 229 National Distribution : Bardia National Park, Chitwan National Park, Parsa Wildlife Reserve and Shukla Phanta Wildlife Reserve and the districts of Banke, Bara, Bardia, Chitwan, Dang, Kailali, Kanchanpur, Makawanpur, Nawalparasi, Parsa and Rupandehi Distribution outside Nepal : India, Bangladesh, Bhutan Main Threats: M Poaching and illegal trade M Reduction in prey base M Habitat loss and fragmentation M Forest fire M Human-tiger conflict 5. Asiatic Elephant (Jangali Hatti) Jangali Hatti (Asiatic Elephant) Asian elephants are one of the largest terrestrial mammal in Asia. They are around 3.5 meter tall and weigh between 3,500 to 5,000 kg. The female of this species has no or only small tusks. They have grey skin that is sparsely covered with hair. Despite their size, elephants are graceful in their movements. According to IUCN, there are around 130-150 wild elephants in Nepal. They are classified as endangered category by the IUCN. Due to poaching of elephants to attain ivory tusk, and the loss of habitat, they are endangered. They live in many different habitats including open grasslands, marshes, tropical rainforest and deciduous forests. They are distributed in the countries like, India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia and Indonesia. These mammals need around 250 to 350 kg of fodder (grasses, leaves, bamboo shoots, bark, bamboo leaves) per day to sustain their massive size. Their life span is believed to be around 70 years in captivity. The gestation period for an elephant is about 22 months (630 to 660 days). Monograph of Asiatic Elephant Scientific name : Elephas maximus Common Name : Asian Elephant (English); Hatti (Nepali) 144 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

Weight : Around 3,500-5,000 kg Height : Around 3.5 m Gestation period : 22 months Life span : 70 years Litter size : One Species Description : The largest land animal in Asia. Grey wrinkled skin, long trunk and large ears. Males have large tusks whilst females have small dental protuberances called tushes Diet : Grass, bamboo shoots, bark, shrubs : around 250 - 350 kg per day National Population Size : 130-150 Wild Asian Elephants National Distribution : Bardia National Park, Chitwan National Park and Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve Distribution outside Nepal : Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, India, Malaysia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Thailand Conservation Status : Endangered Main Threats: M Habitat degradation M Deforestation M Forest fire M Human-wildlife conflict M Potential risk of disease M Habitat shrinkage outside protected areas 6. Giant Pied Hornbill (Dhanesh Charo) Dhanesh Charo There are two species of hornbill in Nepal (small (Giant Pied Hornbill) and big). In Scientific name Giant Hornbill is called Bucerus bicornus. Its body length is around 95-105 cm (0.9 meter) and 3 to 3.5 kg of weight. It is typically large-headed, with thin neck, broad wings and long tail. Its nest is mainly found casque in large tress. It is one of the rare birds of Nepal. The main habitat of this bird is in the Terai forest. Such birds are hunted for meat and medicine. It has come into the stage of rareness due to the destruction of forest and poaching. Its life span is about 7 years in average. Health, Population and Environment Education-10 145

Monograph of Giant Pied Hornbill Scientific name : Becerus bicornus Common Name : Giant pied hornbill (English) Dhanes charo (Nepali) Weight : Around 3 to 3.5 kg Body length : Around 0.9 meter Life span : 7 years Species Description : Large head, thin neck, broad black wings and long white banded tail Diet : Fruits, insects, nestling birds and small lizards Conservation Status : Rare National Distribution : Forest of the Terai region Distribution outside Nepal : India Main Threats: M Poaching for meat M Deforestation and habitat loss M Forest fire 7. Asiatic Rock Python (Ajingar) Asiatic Rock Python is the rare python of Nepal. This species of python is distributed in Nepal, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Bhutan. It is under the protected category in Nepal. In the country, it is reported only from Bardia district. However, its occurrence in other parts of the Terai region is quite possible. Its distribution range in Nepal is recorded up to 250 m altitude. It is usually found in the forest near water bodies and large marshes. Ajingar (Asiatic Rock Python) Its body is light yellowish to brownish and black mixed colour and is marbled with yellow and black. It is around 7-9 meter long. Its weight is about 90 kilograms. This is the biggest snake in the world and it is nonpoisonous. It is carnivorous and mostly prays on warm blooded vertebrates. It can swallow the kids of goat and deer entirely. The Asiatic rock python is estimated to live for about 19 years. An adult female rock python can clutch about 80 to 100 eggs at a time. It is hunted for its skin, oil and flesh. Monograph of Asiatic rock Python Scientific name : Python molurus Common Name : Asiatic rock Python (English); Ajingar (Nepali) 146 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

Weight : Around 90 kg Length : Around 7-9 meter Life span : 19 years Clutch size : 80-100 eggs at a time Diet : Warm blooded vertebrates like deer, rabbit, wild boar, birds, etc. Species Description : The colour of the body is light yellowish to brownish and black mixed band Conservation Status : Vulnerable National Distribution : Forest of the Terai region up to the elevation of 250 meter altitude. Distribution outside Nepal : India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Bhutan Main Threats: M Poaching for meat, oil and skin M Deforestation and habitat loss M Forest fire M Degradation of wetlands B. Measures to Conserve Rare Animals and Birds Climate change, natural calamities, poaching, destruction and fragmentation of habitats are the major reasons for the rareness of animals and birds. Their depletion affects the whole ecosystem. Therefore, following measures are to be applied for their conservation: 1. Study and Research The study and research on birds and animals provide correct information of their status and measures for their conservation can be identified in systematic way. It also helps for the implementation of program to conserve birds and animals. 2. Restriction on Poaching In the case of rare animals of Nepal, they are more vulnerable to the endanger stage due to illegal hunting and smuggling. If this inhuman activities continue after few years the rare animals will be extinct. Hence, poaching of rare animals and birds should be strictly prohibited. The people who are involved in smuggling of animals should not be given any kind of excuses. 3. Conservation of Habitats Many animals and birds are being endangered due to the deforestation and fragmentation of habitat. At the same time aquatic animals like fish and other animals living in the water bodies are in the peril of depletion due to water pollution. The Health, Population and Environment Education-10 147

greedy people destroy jungle to fulfil their needs. Ultimately, it destroys the habitat of terrestrial animals. Therefore, we should preserve their habitat to conserve rare birds and animals. We can preserve their habitat through the In-situ and Ex-situ conservation. In which, In-situ conservation is the type of conservation where the genetic resources are preserved in their natural habitat. For this , we can increase the number and area of National Park, Wildlife Reserves and Conservation Areas. Similarly, Ex-situ conservation is that conservation in which animals and birds are conserved in man-made conservation area. There must be proper management of zoo, botanical gardens, nurseries, gene banks and tissue banks for the preservation of genetic resources at the endangered state. Therefore, in order to protect the species we need to preserve their habitat first. 4. Public Awareness Awareness programs are to be conducted among the people. They should be educated about the importance of rare animals and birds, way of conserving them and conservation of their habitat. If we are able to aware them about the importance of rare birds and animals their causes of rareness, measures for conservation, they will realize the importance and become responsible to conserve them. 5. Implementation of Law To discourage the smuggling of animals and birds, conservation laws need to be implemented strictly. All conservation laws if executed properly help to conserve rare animals and birds. 6. Reduction in Effects of Human Activities Human being performs various activities on natural environment. It may bring negative impact on food and habitat of the birds and animals. Therefore, conservation measures need to be integrated while utilizing resources. It helps to conserve birds and animals. C. Legal Status of Rare Species According to IUCN Category Due to rapid growth of population, deforestation, unmanaged urbanization and industrialization, as well as invasion of exotic species of plants and animals the native and endemic species of biological resources are at the verge of extinction. Unmanaged rapid urbanization and unorganized industrialization have resulted into various environmental problems like global warming, climate change, acid rain, desertification, pollution and so on. These environmental hazards create direct impact on the status of biodiversity. When environment is degraded by human activities, the population size of many species will be reduced and become endangered. At the same time some species will go extinct. According to the Red List of IUCN (2007 AD), out of 1253 species of vertebrate animals 78 species are in the verge of extinction. Nepal is 148 Health, Population and Environment Education-10

not remained untouched by this problem since it has become a global problem. The Legal Status of Rare Species According to IUCN Category: 1. Threatened (T) Species which come under the category of ‘Endangered’, ‘Vulnerable’, ‘Rare’ and ‘Insufficiently Known’. 2. Insufficiently Known (I) Species that probably belong to one of the conservation categories but are not sufficiently well known to be assigned to a specific category. 3. Rare (R) Species that have small total number due to limited geographical range or low population density and not at vulnerable or endangered stage at present but are at risk. 4. Vulnerable (V) Species which are likely to move on to endangered category in near future if the factors causing their reduction are not removed. 5. Endangered (E) Species that have a high likelihood of going extinct in the near future due to reduction in their number to a critical level. 6. Extinct (EX) Species which are not definitely located or no longer existing despite repeated search since 50 to 100 years. Table 6.2: Name of protected animals and plants SN Common Name Local Name Scientific Name IUCN Status 1 Red Panda Mammals Ailurus flugens 2 Black buck Habre Antilope carvicapra E 3 Gaur Krishnasar Bos gaurus V 4 Wild Yak Gauri Gai Bos mutus V 5 Wild water buffalo Yok Nak Bubalus bubalis E 6 Tibetan woulf Arna Canis lupus E 7 Hispid Hare Bwanso Caprolagus hispidus V 8 Swamp deer Hispid Kharayo Cervus duvaceli E 9 Asiatic elephant Barasinghe Elephus maximus E 10 Lynx Jangali Hatti Felis lynx E 11 Striped hyaena Lynx Hyaena hyaena E Hundar E Health, Population and Environment Education-10 149

12 Asamese monkey Asamese Rato Bander Macaca assamensis -- 13 Chinese pangolin Salak -- Himalayan Musk Manis pantadactyla E Deer I 14 Kasturi Moschus chrysogaster E E 15 Great Tibetan Sheep Nayan Ovis ammon -- 16 Royal Bengal Tiger Bagh V 17 Snow Leopard Hiun Chituwa Panthera tigris V -- 18 Tibetan Antelope Chiru Panthera uncia -- -- Pantholops hodgsoni E 19 Clouded Leopard Dhwanshe Chitwa Pardofelis nebulosa -- 20 Gangetic Dolphin Sauns -- 21 Leopard Cat Chari Bagh Platanista gangetica E 22 Spotted Lingsang Silu Prionailurus bengalensis -- E Greater one-horned Prionodon pardicolor -- Rhinoceros -- 23 Gainda Rhinoceros unicornis E -- 24 Pigmy Hog Sano/Pudke Bandel Sus salvinus -- Four-horned -- 25 Antelope Chausingha Tetracerus quadricornis -- 26 Brown Bear Himali Rato Bhalu Ursus arctos E 27 Indian Pangolin Salak V Birds Manis Crassicaudata I 1 Great Pied Hornbill Thulo Dhanesh Buceros bicornis 2 Cheer Pheasent Cheer 3 Black Strock Kalo Saras Catreus wallichil 4 White Strock Seto Saras Ciconia nigra 5 Bengal Florican Khar Majur Ciconia ciconia 6 Common Crane Saras Eupodotis bengalensis 7 Impeyan Pheasant Danfe Grus grus 8 Lessar Florican Sano Khar Mujur Lophophorus impejanus Crimsom-horned Sypheotides inidica Pheasant 9 Munal Tragopan satyra 1 Gharial Crocodile Ghadial Reptiles 2 Asiatic Rock Python Ajingar Gavialis gangeticus Golden Monitor Python molurus Lizard 3 Sun Gohoro Varanus favescens D. Status of Rare Plants of Nepal 1. Champ (Golden Michelia) Golden Michelia is one of the rare plants of Nepal. Its scientific name is Michelia Champaca. It is found in the upper part of Terai and Mid Hilly region at the altitude between 600 to 1,500 meter. This is a typical evergreen tree with straight trunk which bears golden yellow fragrant flowers. In Nepal, there are two species (big and small 150 Health, Population and Environment Education-10