UPSC Prelims 2020 Q81: Environment & Ecology – Environmental Governance & Legislation
- (a) A licence is required to cultivate that plant.
- (b) Such a plant cannot be cultivated under any circumstances.
- (c) It is a Genetically Modified crop plant.
- (d) Such a plant is invasive and harmful to the ecosystem.
Answer: (a) A licence is required to cultivate that plant.
Explanation
Schedule VI (Wildlife Protection Act): Plant Conservation Implication
| Implication | Correct? |
|---|---|
| Requires cultivation license | YES |
| Cannot be cultivated under any circumstances | NO - can cultivate with license |
| Genetically Modified crop | NO - GM is separate designation |
| Invasive/harmful to ecosystem | NO - endangered/protected status |
Schedule VI (Wildlife Protection Act, 1972): Plants requiring protection = endangered/threatened species. Cultivation allowed WITH PERMISSION/LICENSE from Forest Department.
Example: Orchids, Rhododendrons, certain medicinal plants.
Answer: (a) A licence is required to cultivate that plant.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. Schedule VI plants require cultivation license from Forest Department.
- (b) Incorrect. Cultivation allowed with license (not prohibited).
- (c) Incorrect. GM status is separate from Schedule VI classification.
- (d) Incorrect. Schedule VI = endangered/protected, not invasive.
Key point
WPA Schedule VI: Protected plants. Cultivation needs permission. Protects wild stocks (anti-poaching for medicinal plants, timber). Licensing allows regulated ex-situ conservation.
Remember
If a plant species is placed under Schedule VI of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, the implication is that a LICENSE IS REQUIRED TO CULTIVATE that plant. Schedule VI designates protected/endangered plant species that can be cultivated only with permission from forestry authorities.
Common mistakes
- Confusing Schedule VI (protected) with invasive species. Schedule VI = threatened, needs protection.
- Assuming prohibition = no use. Actually, licensed cultivation is encouraged for conservation.
- Missing medicinal plant context - Schedule VI includes high-value plants (Aconitum, Podophyllum) subject to poaching.
Exam tip
India's Schedule VI plants: ~500 species listed. Includes orchids, rhododendrons, medicinal plants. Certification/licensing system encourages ex-situ conservation (nurseries).
Sources
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 - Schedule VI
- Ministry of Environment - Plant Protection Rules