UPSC Prelims 2014 Q5: Environment & Ecology – Environmental Governance & Legislation
With reference to Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), consider the following statements:
1. It is an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Environment and Forests.
2. It strives to conserve nature through action - based research, education and public awareness.
3. It organizes and conducts nature trails and camps for the general public.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 and 3 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) 2 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (c) 2 and 3 only
Explanation
Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS)
Founded in 1883; based at Hornbill House, Mumbai.
| Statement | Verdict | Fact |
|---|---|---|
| 1. It is an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Environment and Forests | Incorrect | It is a non-governmental organisation |
| 2. It strives to conserve nature through action-based research, education and public awareness | Correct | This is its stated mission |
| 3. It organizes and conducts nature trails and camps for the general public | Correct | It runs regular trails and camps |
Key facts:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Associated with | Dr Salim Ali, the 'Birdman of India' |
| Partner of | BirdLife International in India |
| Publishes | Journal of the Bombay Natural History Society; Hornbill magazine |
| Logo | The Great Indian Hornbill |
Answer: (c) 2 and 3 only.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Statement 1 is false; BNHS is not under any Ministry.
- (b) Incorrect. Statement 3 is also true: it conducts nature trails and camps.
- (c) CORRECT. BNHS works through research, education and awareness and runs nature trails.
- (d) Incorrect. Statement 1 is false; BNHS is an NGO.
Key point
BNHS (1883, Mumbai): non-governmental conservation body; research, education, nature trails; Salim Ali; BirdLife International partner.
Remember
BNHS = NGO, 1883, Salim Ali.
Common mistakes
- Assuming an old, respected body must be a Government organisation.
- Confusing BNHS with the Zoological Survey of India, which is a Government body.
- Forgetting its link with Salim Ali.
Exam tip
'Society' in the name usually means an NGO.
Sources
- Bombay Natural History Society — About BNHS
- BirdLife International — Partner in India: BNHS