Class 8 Social Studies Chapter 1 | సహజ వనరులు – వినియోగం | Part 1 | 2026-27

 🌍 Class 8 Social Studies Chapter 1 | సహజ వనరులు – వినియోగం | Part 1 | 2026-27

📚 Class 8 New Social Studies – Chapter 1
🌱 సహజ వనరులు – వినియోగం (Natural Resources – Their Use)
🎯 Part – 1 | Academic Year 2026-27

ఈ వీడియోలో 8వ తరగతి నూతన Social Studies పాఠ్యపుస్తకంలోని Chapter 1 – “సహజ వనరులు – వినియోగం” పాఠాన్ని సులభమైన తెలుగులో, విద్యార్థులకు అర్థమయ్యే విధంగా వివరించడం జరిగింది.

ఈ పాఠం ద్వారా మన చుట్టూ ఉన్న సహజ వనరులు ఏమిటి? వాటి ప్రాముఖ్యత ఏమిటి? మనిషి వాటిని ఎలా ఉపయోగిస్తున్నాడు? వనరులను ఎందుకు సంరక్షించాలి? వంటి ముఖ్యమైన అంశాలను తెలుసుకోవచ్చు.

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📖 ఈ వీడియోలో ముఖ్యమైన అంశాలు
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✅ సహజ వనరులు అంటే ఏమిటి?
✅ సహజ వనరుల రకాలు
✅ పునరుత్పాదక మరియు పునరుత్పాదకం కాని వనరులు
✅ నీరు – ముఖ్యమైన సహజ వనరు
✅ భూమి మరియు నేల వనరులు
✅ అడవులు మరియు వాటి ప్రాముఖ్యత
✅ ఖనిజ వనరులు
✅ ఇంధన వనరులు
✅ సహజ వనరుల వినియోగం
✅ వనరుల అధిక వినియోగం వల్ల కలిగే సమస్యలు
✅ సహజ వనరుల సంరక్షణ అవసరం
✅ పర్యావరణ పరిరక్షణ
✅ పరీక్షలకు ఉపయోగపడే ముఖ్యమైన అంశాలు

Complete Notes

What resource can be renewable if forests and glaciers are preserved?

[VSA (Very Short Answer)]

1. Coal
2. River Water
3. Gold
4. Natural gas

Correct Solution: (b) 

River Water

Explanation:

River water remains renewable when sources like glaciers are conserved.

Which of the following is considered a natural resource when used for human benefit?

[VSA (Very Short Answer)]

1. Plastic manufactured in factories
2. Fresh water from a river
3. A park made by people
4. Electricity generated by a solar panel

Correct Solution: (b) 

Fresh water from a river

Explanation:

Freshwater is derived from nature and is used by humans, making it a natural resource.

Which of the following is a characteristic of renewable resources?

[VSA (Very Short Answer)]

1. Can be replenished naturally
2. Finite and exhaustible
3. Includes metals like iron
4. Rarely found on Earth

Correct Solution: (a) 

Can be replenished naturally

Explanation:

Renewable resources can be replenished through natural processes.

Which energy source is considered renewable?

[VSA (Very Short Answer)]

1. Coal
2. Wind energy
3. Petroleum
4. Natural gas

Correct Solution: (b) 

Wind energy

Explanation:

Wind energy is naturally replenished and considered renewable.

For an entity to become a resource, what is NOT necessary?

[VSA (Very Short Answer)]

1. Technologically accessible
2. Culturally acceptable
3. Easily visible
4. Economically viable

Correct Solution: (c) 

Easily visible

Explanation:

Visibility is not a requirement for something to be classified as a resource.

Why is solar energy considered renewable?

[VSA (Very Short Answer)]

1. It can be harvested with machinery
2. It is abundant and naturally replenished by the sun
3. It is stored in batteries
4. It is found underground like coal

Correct Solution: (b) 

It is abundant and naturally replenished by the sun

Explanation:

Solar energy is constantly available and renewable.

Which is NOT a resource essential for life?

[VSA (Very Short Answer)]

1. Air
2. Water
3. Coal
4. Food

Correct Solution: (c) 

Coal

Explanation:

Coal is a resource for energy, not directly essential for life.

What is a key requirement for renewable resources to remain renewable?

[VSA (Very Short Answer)]

1. Injecting artificial fertilizers
2. Maintaining the rhythm of natural restoration processes
3. Consuming resources faster than replenishment
4. Constant human intervention

Correct Solution: (b) 

Maintaining the rhythm of natural restoration processes

Explanation:

Natural cycles must remain undisturbed for resources to stay renewable.

Which of the following processes results in the generation of electricity?

[VSA (Very Short Answer)]

1. Burning gold
2. Hydroelectric power from water
3. Mining coal
4. Harvesting forests

Correct Solution: (b) 

Hydroelectric power from water

Explanation:

Electricity is generated using water in hydroelectric plants.

Where is one of the largest solar parks located in India?

[VSA (Very Short Answer)]

1. Himachal Pradesh
2. Kerala
3. Rajasthan
4. West Bengal

Correct Solution: (c) 

Rajasthan

Explanation:

Rajasthan hosts one of the world's largest solar parks.

Which type of air is critical for the survival of living beings?

[VSA (Very Short Answer)]

1. Polluted air
2. Pure Air
3. Compressed air
4. Hot air

Correct Solution: (b) 

Pure Air

Explanation:

Only clean, breathable air supports life.

What is the focus of Vṛikṣhāyurveda?

[VSA (Very Short Answer)]

1. Astrology and its effects on plants
2. Study and care of trees and plants
3. Features of celestial constellations
4. Ancient temple architecture

Correct Solution: (b) 

Study and care of trees and plants

Explanation:

Vṛikṣhāyurveda emphasizes botanical science for plant care.

Which practice is recommended for sustainable soil management in traditional farming?

[VSA (Very Short Answer)]

1. Use of chemical fertilizers
2. Monocropping
3. Use of cow dung
4. Burning crop residues

Correct Solution: (c) 

Use of cow dung

Explanation:

Traditional farming uses natural fertilizers like cow dung.

What process allows forests to recover naturally after a wildfire?

[VSA (Very Short Answer)]

1. Industrialisation
2. Regeneration
3. Mining
4. Deforestation

Correct Solution: (b) 

Regeneration

Explanation:

Regeneration is the natural renewal and recovery of ecosystems.

Which material is transformed into a chair?

[VSA (Very Short Answer)]

1. Coal
2. Wood
3. Gold
4. Petroleum

Correct Solution: (b) 

Wood

Explanation:

Wood can be crafted into furniture like chairs.

Why is it important to manage renewable resources sustainably?

[VSA (Very Short Answer)]

Solution:

Sustainably managing renewable resources ensures their long-term availability, preventing depletion, and protecting the natural cycle of restoration and regeneration.

State two natural resources used as energy sources in modern living.

[VSA (Very Short Answer)]

Solution:

Coal and petroleum are natural resources used as energy sources for electricity and transportation.

What are some potential conflicts arising from the uneven distribution of natural resources?

[VSA (Very Short Answer)]

Solution:

Uneven distribution can lead to conflicts over resource control, territorial disputes, competitive trade practices, and tensions between regions or countries striving for resource access.

Explain how air and water contribute to sustaining life on Earth.

[VSA (Very Short Answer)]

Solution:

Air provides oxygen for respiration, while water is essential for hydration, both of which are vital for sustaining life on Earth.

Explain the classification of natural resources by their use categories.

[SA-1 (Short answer type-1)]

Solution:

Natural resources can be categorized based on their uses into:

1. Essential for life: Includes air, water, and food derived from the environment.
2. Resources for materials: Involves using natural resources like wood, marble, and gold to make utility or beautiful objects.
3. Resources for energy: Comprises resources like coal, water, and sunlight for energy production.

Describe the significance of resources essential for life in human survival.

[SA-1 (Short answer type-1)]

Solution:

Resources essential for life include air, water, and food. They are fundamental as they provide the fundamental elements necessary for living organisms to survive. Air is crucial for respiration, water is vital for hydration and various biological processes, and food provides the nutrients and energy needed for growth, repair, and everyday functioning of the body.

Explain the significance of understanding the difference between renewable and non-renewable resources in resource management.

[SA-1 (Short answer type-1)]

Solution:

Understanding these differences helps in planning sustainable use of resources, ensuring long-term availability. It facilitates decisions on conservation and the transition to alternative resources, mitigating resource depletion and environmental harm.

Identify two reasons why regions abundant in natural resources may still face economic challenges.

[SA-1 (Short answer type-1)]

Solution:

Regions abundant in natural resources may face economic challenges due to failure in developing industries that transform resources into high-value products and lack of strategic resource management. Effective governance and planning are crucial to preventing resources from being mismanaged, which can lead to temporary windfalls rather than lasting prosperity.

Identify three categories of natural resources and give an example of each.

[SA-1 (Short answer type-1)]

Solution:

• Resources essential for life: Example - Water, which is crucial for hydration and agriculture.
• Resources for materials: Example - Wood, transformed into furniture or art.
• Resources for energy: Example - Coal, used in generating electricity.

These categories show how natural resources support survival, provide materials, and generate energy for human needs.

How does nature transform into resources based on human needs?

[SA-1 (Short answer type-1)]

Solution:

Nature provides many entities existing independently, but they become resources when humans use them for survival or production. For example, trees turn into resources when processed into furniture. This transformation depends on technology for access, economic feasibility of extraction, and cultural acceptance of use, showing how human needs convert natural elements into valuable resources.

How does cultural acceptability play a role in determining whether nature becomes a resource?

[SA-1 (Short answer type-1)]

Solution:

Cultural acceptability determines if exploiting a natural entity aligns with societal norms and values. In some cultures, sacred groves must remain untouched, even if they contain valuable resources like wood, because cutting down trees conflicts with cultural beliefs. Therefore, cultural acceptance is necessary to transition nature into a resource.

How does disrupting the replenishment cycle of glaciers affect the environment?

[SA-1 (Short answer type-1)]

Solution:

Disruption of the glacier replenishment cycle reduces water supply to areas dependent on glacial melt, harming agriculture, drinking water availability, and hydroelectric power generation. Rapid melting also raises sea levels, increasing the risk of floods and threatening coastal communities, ecosystems, and landscapes, highlighting the critical importance of balanced glacier cycles for sustaining life and environmental stability.

What role does human governance and strategic planning play in offsetting the 'natural resource curse'?

[SA-1 (Short answer type-1)]

Solution:

Human governance and strategic planning are pivotal in offsetting the 'natural resource curse' by ensuring that natural resources are effectively managed and converted into long-term economic benefits. They help in balancing resource extraction with sustainability, promoting industries, and ensuring that resource wealth translates into broader societal gains.

What are the implications of transforming natural resources into physical objects?

[SA-1 (Short answer type-1)]

Solution:

Transforming natural resources into physical objects implies the utilization of nature's gifts to create utility items or objects of beauty. It reflects human innovation in enhancing life quality by making essential furniture or decorative items. However, it highlights the importance of sustainability practices to ensure these resources are not depleted but regenerated responsibly.

Discuss how human activities have contributed to the depletion of renewable resources.

[SA-2 (Short answer type-2)]

Solution:

Human activities cause renewable resource depletion due to unsustainable exploitation. Deforestation at rates faster than forests can regrow leads to loss of timber resources, habitat destruction, and climate change impacts. Overfishing disrupts marine life balances, endangering species like tuna. Industrialization and pollution interrupt natural restoration cycles, causing environmental degradation. Agriculture, energy demands, and irresponsible waste disposal disturb natural renewal processes, threatening ecosystem services. Sustainable management and conservation efforts are vital for preserving renewable resources and maintaining ecological balance.

Compare and contrast the characteristics of renewable and non-renewable resources.

[SA-2 (Short answer type-2)]

Solution:

Renewable resources, like solar and wind energy, naturally regenerate over time, provided they are managed sustainably. They offer ongoing potential and are often environmentally friendly. In contrast, non-renewable resources, such as coal and oil, take millions of years to form and deplete with continuous extraction, leading to finite availability. While renewable resources support ecological balance through restoration and regeneration, the exploitation of non-renewable resources often contributes to pollution and environmental challenges. Both resource types require mindful usage for sustained benefits.

What role does the uneven distribution of natural resources have on global conflicts and human settlements?

[SA-2 (Short answer type-2)]

Solution:

The uneven distribution of natural resources plays a crucial role in shaping human settlements and global conflicts. Territories rich in resources attract settlements and industries that aim to exploit these for economic gain. Such regions often face disputes as both internal and external entities vie for control. Historically, the scarcity or abundance of these resources has driven nations to war, seeking strategic advantages. Wars over oil, minerals, and water sources illustrate these conflicts, highlighting how resources considerably influence political boundaries and socio-economic landscapes worldwide.

Name five ecosystem functions that serve humans.

[SA-2 (Short answer type-2)]

Solution:

Ecosystem functions are natural processes that help humans by providing essential benefits, known as ecosystem services. Based on the chapter, here are five ecosystem functions that serve humans:

• Oxygen Production: Trees and plants produce oxygen, like a mature tree giving 275 liters daily, helping us breathe.
• Water Purification: Forests and wetlands filter water, providing clean water for drinking and farming.
• Soil Fertility: Decomposing plants and animals enrich soil, helping grow food crops.
• Pollination: Bees and insects pollinate crops, ensuring food production, like fruits and vegetables.
• Climate Regulation: Forests absorb carbon dioxide, reducing rising temperatures and helping control climate change.

What types of natural resources are used for energy production, and how do they contribute to modern living?

[SA-2 (Short answer type-2)]

Solution:

Natural resources used for energy production include coal, water, petroleum, natural gas, sunlight, and wind. These resources are pivotal in producing electricity, powering transportation, and supporting various production processes. Their contribution to modern living lies in enabling technological advancements, enhancing comfort, and improving overall quality of life by providing essential energy for diverse human activities and infrastructure developments.

What role does water conservation play in the responsible use of natural resources?

[SA-2 (Short answer type-2)]

Solution:

Water conservation is integral to the responsible use of natural resources as it ensures sustainable water availability for various needs without depleting resources. Conserving water helps maintain ecological balance, supporting aquatic ecosystems and wildlife. It mitigates issues like groundwater depletion, reducing dependency on unsustainable extraction. Conserving water through efficient irrigation, reduced wastage, and rainwater harvesting enhances agricultural productivity and resilience. Overall, water conservation is crucial for securing water resources for future generations, supporting socio-economic development, and adapting to climate variability, fostering a harmonious relationship with nature.

Explain how industries located near natural resources impact local communities economically and socially.

[SA-2 (Short answer type-2)]

Solution:

Industries located near natural resources significantly impact local communities by providing employment and fostering economic growth. These industries attract labor and lead to the development of townships, offering improved infrastructure and better facilities. This socioeconomic upliftment increases education and living standards. However, despite these benefits, there are costs including environmental degradation, displacement of people, and loss of traditional livelihoods. Social cohesion can be disrupted as cultural sites may be threatened. The blend of positive economic impact with potential social adversity characterizes industrial expansion near natural resources.

List essential natural resources vital for human survival and explain their significance in supporting life on Earth.

[SA-2 (Short answer type-2)]

Solution:

Essential natural resources vital for human survival include air, water, and food. Air provides oxygen essential for respiration, enabling cells to produce energy. Water maintains bodily functions and facilitates chemical reactions, while food offers necessary nutrients and energy for growth, repair, and daily activities. Without these resources, life would cease to exist, as they form the basis of biological functions critical for sustaining life on Earth.

What measures can be taken to raise groundwater levels in regions facing depletion?

[SA-2 (Short answer type-2)]

Solution:

To address groundwater depletion, several measures can be implemented: promoting traditional water harvesting techniques such as rejuvenating ponds and tanks to capture rainwater; implementing efficient irrigation systems like drip or sprinkler irrigation to reduce water waste; practicing crop diversification to match water availability; constructing check dams and recharge wells to facilitate groundwater recharge; encouraging the use of drought-resistant crop varieties; educating communities on water conservation methods; and monitoring water usage through regulations and incentives to ensure sustainable resource management. Collectively, these approaches will enhance groundwater rejuvenation.

Discuss the interdependency between renewable natural resources and the ecosystems they support.

[SA-2 (Short answer type-2)]

Solution:

Renewable natural resources, like river water and timber, depend on healthy ecosystems. River water remains renewable as long as glaciers and forests, which regulate water cycles, are intact. Similarly, sustainable timber harvest relies on forest ecosystems' ability to regenerate. These resources shield habitats and promote biodiversity, illustrating the balance between natural resource management and ecosystem stability. Effective conservation practices ensure these resources' longevity, contributing to sustainable development and environmental resilience.

What are the implications of disturbed natural cycles due to human activities?

[SA-2 (Short answer type-2)]

Solution:

Human activities, like overfishing, deforestation, and industrial waste discharge, disrupt natural cycles, leading to severe ecological implications. Such disturbances prevent restoration and regeneration, causing issues like rising global temperatures, melting glaciers, and biodiversity loss. These consequences lead to resource depletion, unpredictable weather, and loss of ecosystems’ productivity, affecting water security and agricultural stability. Sustainable practices are essential to mitigate these impacts and ensure a balanced interaction with natural cycles, aligning human activity with Earth's regenerative capacity.

Explain the role of ecosystem services and how they benefit human society.

[SA-2 (Short answer type-2)]

Solution:

Ecosystem services are the benefits humans derive from natural processes, supporting well-being and economic activities. Forests purify air, regulate climate, and control water cycles, leading to improved health and agricultural productivity. Wetlands filter pollutants, protecting water quality. Pollination by insects contributes to food production and biodiversity. These services ensure food security, reduce disaster impacts, and provide recreational and cultural value. Valuing and maintaining ecosystems intact promotes sustainability, fostering resilient societies attuned to environmental stewardship.

Identify and describe the three broad categories of natural resources based on their uses.

[SA-2 (Short answer type-2)]

Solution:

The three broad categories of natural resources based on their uses are:

1. Resources essential for life: This includes air, water, and food necessary to maintain life on Earth.
2. Resources for materials: These are natural materials like wood and marble, used for crafting objects of utility and beauty.
3. Resources for energy: Encompassing coal, petroleum, sunlight, etc., these resources provide the energy required for modern living and technological advancement.

How do We Categorize Natural Resources?

[LA-1 (Long answer type-1)]

Solution:

• Based on Uses: We group resources by what we use them for. For example, water and air are for life, wood is for building, and coal is for energy.
• Based on Renewability: Some resources renew, like sunlight or wind, while others don’t, like oil or coal, which can run out if overused.
• Based on Origin: Resources come from living things (biotic), like plants for timber, or non-living things (abiotic), like minerals or water.
• Based on Availability: Some are everywhere, like air, while others are only in certain places, like gold in mines.
• Based on Development Stage: Some resources are ready to use, like river water for power, while others, like untapped oil, are still waiting.
• Why It Helps: Grouping them makes it easier to manage and plan how to use them wisely!

Read the following text carefully and answer the questions that follow:
Nature refers to all life and non-life forms that exist independently of humans. When humans use them for sustenance or to create new products, they become resources. For example, trees become resources when converted into furniture. However, resources must be technologically accessible, economically feasible, and culturally acceptable. The Earth’s treasures include water, soil, coal, petroleum, timber, and precious stones. Thus, natural resources are valuable materials and substances occurring in Nature.

Questions:

1. When does Nature become a resource? (1)
2. Why is accessibility important for something to be called a resource? (1)
3. Explain the conditions required for an entity to be considered a resource. (2)

[LA-1 (Long answer type-1)]

Solution:

1. Nature becomes a resource when humans use elements like water, soil, coal, or trees for sustenance or create new things from them, provided they are technologically accessible, economically feasible, and culturally acceptable.
2. Accessibility is important because many natural entities, like petroleum deep under the ocean, may not be usable without proper technology or if costs are too high, making them unavailable as resources until feasible.
3. For an entity to be called a resource, three conditions must be met: it should be technologically accessible, so that humans can reach or use it; economically feasible, meaning its extraction is affordable; and culturally acceptable, since some practices like cutting trees in sacred groves may not be permitted. Only then can Nature become a resource.

Read the following text carefully and answer the questions that follow:
Natural resources are unevenly distributed across the Earth, influencing settlements, trade, and conflicts. Industries near resources create jobs and improve local infrastructure, but can also displace communities and threaten sacred places. Resource distribution affects national and international trade, enabling unique products like Wootz steel. Shared resources, like the Kaveri River, require careful negotiations between states or countries to ensure fair use and maintain peace.

Questions:

1. How does uneven distribution of natural resources influence human settlements? (1)
2. Why are shared natural resources a source of conflict? (1)
3. Explain the economic and social implications of resource-rich areas. (2)

[LA-1 (Long answer type-1)]

Solution:

1. Uneven distribution of resources shapes settlements because industries and townships develop near resource-rich areas, providing employment and economic opportunities, while sometimes displacing communities or affecting sacred places.
2. Shared resources, like rivers, cross political boundaries. Conflicts arise when multiple states or countries compete for access, requiring negotiations to ensure fair distribution and maintain peace.
3. Resource-rich areas attract industries, creating employment and expanding townships. Improved infrastructure and modern facilities enhance quality of life. However, local communities may be displaced, and sacred or ecological sites may be threatened. Trade and economic benefits depend on careful management to balance development with social and environmental concerns.

Read the following text carefully and answer the questions that follow:
Sustaining life on Earth requires responsible and judicious use of natural resources. Renewable resources must be used in a way that allows restoration and regeneration, while non-renewables should be conserved for future alternatives. Traditional practices, like Vṛikṣhāyurveda, organic farming in Sikkim, and the use of mud or stone in construction, demonstrate sustainable resource management. India’s leadership in solar energy through initiatives like the International Solar Alliance shows how renewable resources can support both ecological and economic goals.

Questions:

1. What is meant by responsible and judicious use of resources? (1)
2. How did Sikkim achieve success in sustainable farming? (1)
3. Explain how traditional practices and modern initiatives contribute to sustainable resource management. (2)

[LA-1 (Long answer type-1)]

Solution:

1. Responsible and judicious use of resources means using renewable resources without depleting them and conserving non-renewables so they last longer, while applying sustainable practices to maintain ecological balance and support future generations.
2. Sikkim transitioned to 100% organic farming using compost, natural pest repellents, and multiple cropping, restoring soil health, increasing biodiversity, improving farmers’ incomes, and creating a globally recognized model for sustainable agriculture.
3. Traditional practices, like Vṛikṣhāyurveda and organic farming, promote soil health, crop rotation, and biodiversity. Modern initiatives, such as solar parks and eco-friendly building materials, reduce pollution and reliance on non-renewables. Combining traditional knowledge with technology ensures sustainable use of resources, ecological protection, and economic growth.

Read the following text carefully and answer the questions that follow:
Natural resources can be categorized based on their uses: essential for life, materials, and energy. Air, water, and soil are vital for survival, while wood, marble, coal, and gold serve as materials for utility and beauty. Energy resources like coal, petroleum, sunlight, wind, and water are fundamental for electricity, transportation, and production processes. Thus, natural resources sustain life, provide materials, and supply energy crucial for modern living.

Questions:

1. What are resources essential for life? (1)
2. How do humans use natural resources for materials? (1)
3. Explain how natural resources are categorized based on their uses. (2)

[LA-1 (Long answer type-1)]

Solution:

1. Resources essential for life include air, water, and soil, which provide us with the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the soil that gives us food. Without them, life cannot exist.
2. Humans transform Nature’s gifts into useful objects or items of beauty. For example, wood can be made into a chair or carved into a statuette, while India’s diversity provides materials like marble, coal, and gold.
3. Natural resources are categorized into three groups: essential for life, such as air, water, and soil; resources for materials, like wood, marble, coal, and gold, which create utility and beauty; and resources for energy, such as coal, petroleum, wind, sunlight, and water, which are the foundation of electricity, transportation, and production processes.

Read the following text carefully and answer the questions that follow:
Having abundant natural resources does not guarantee economic prosperity, a situation called the ‘natural resource curse’ or the ‘paradox of plenty’. Countries with plenty of resources may experience slower economic growth if they fail to develop industries that add value. India has largely avoided this by investing in industrial development. Balancing resource extraction with sustainability, supported by human knowledge, governance, and strategic planning, ensures that natural resources provide lasting benefits rather than temporary gains.

Questions:

1. What is meant by the ‘natural resource curse’? (1)
2. How has India avoided the natural resource curse? (1)
3. Explain why balancing resource extraction with sustainability is important. (2)

[LA-1 (Long answer type-1)]

Solution:

1. The ‘natural resource curse’ refers to the phenomenon where regions rich in natural resources may experience slower economic growth because resources are not effectively converted into higher-value products or sustainable industries.
2. India has avoided the natural resource curse by investing in the development of industries that use resources efficiently, meeting growing needs and converting natural wealth into sustainable economic benefits.
3. Balancing extraction with sustainability is essential because overuse or mismanagement of resources can lead to temporary gains but long-term loss. Sustainable use, guided by human knowledge, good governance, and strategic planning, ensures that natural resources continue to provide economic benefits while protecting the environment and supporting future generations.

Read the following text carefully and answer the questions that follow:
Natural resources can be renewable or non-renewable. Renewable resources, like sunlight, rivers, forests, and soil, follow Nature’s principle of restoration and regeneration if managed sustainably. Disturbing these cycles through deforestation, industrialisation, or overfishing leads to depletion. Non-renewable resources, such as coal, petroleum, and minerals, take millions of years to form and cannot be replenished quickly. India has large coal reserves, but they may last only about 50 years, highlighting the need for judicious use.

Questions:

1. What makes a resource renewable? (1)
2. Why are fossil fuels called non-renewable resources? (1)
3. Explain how human actions disturb the renewable cycle of Nature. (2)

[LA-1 (Long answer type-1)]

Solution:

1. A resource is renewable if it follows Nature’s principle of restoration and regeneration, like forests, rivers, or soil. They remain renewable only when managed sustainably, without disturbing their natural cycles of replenishment.
2. Fossil fuels are called non-renewable because they are formed over millions of years and cannot be replenished at the rate humans consume them. Once exhausted, they cannot be naturally replaced quickly.
3. Renewable resources depend on restoration and regeneration. However, human actions like deforestation, fossil fuel-driven industrialisation, over-fishing, and untreated industrial waste disrupt these cycles. For example, overharvesting timber reduces forests, and industrial waste poisons rivers, preventing natural renewal. Such disturbances convert potentially renewable resources into depleted ones, creating long-term ecological imbalance.

1. Two places A and B have been marked on the given outline map of India. Identify them and write their correct names on the lines drawn near them.
   A. A famous waterfall in Goa.
   B. A state where the Green Revolution caused excess pumping of groundwater leading to water scarcity.
2. On the same outline map of India, locate and label the following with suitable symbols:
1. Mumbai
2. Raichur – Northern Karnataka
3. Tamil Nadu – State with Mettur Dam on River Kaveri

[LA-1 (Long answer type-1)]

Solution:

1. A. Dudhsagar Waterfall (Goa)
   B. Punjab
2.