Question

Read the given source and answer the questions that follow:

Conservation of Resources: Resources are vital for any developmental activity. But irrational consumption and over-utilisation of resources may lead to socio-economic and environmental problems. To overcome these problems, resource conservation at various levels is important. This had been the main concern of the leaders and thinkers in the past. For example, Gandhiji was very apt in voicing his concern about resource conservation in these words: "There is enough for everybody's need and not for anybody's greed." He placed greedy and selfish individuals and the exploitative nature of modern technology as the root cause of resource depletion at the global level. He was against mass production and wanted to replace it with the production of the masses.

1. Define the term 'Resource Planning'. (1)
2. Explain the need for conservation of resources. (1)
3. Why did Gandhiji say - "There is enough for everybody's need and not for any body's greed?" Analyse any two reasons. (2)

Answer 1

i. Resource Planning is a technique or strategy for the judicious use of resources. It involves a systematic process of resource development in order to achieve sustainable development. This planning ensures that we are not only using our current resources wisely without overexploiting them but also safeguarding them for future generations.

ii. Conservation of resources is crucial for several reasons:

1. Sustainability: Ensuring that resources are available for future generations by using them at a rate that allows them to replenish.
2. Environmental Protection: Preventing degradation of ecosystems, loss of biodiversity, and disruption of ecological balance.
3. Economic Efficiency: Minimizing waste and cost associated with the depletion of natural resources which may become more expensive as they become scarcer.
4. Social Responsibility: Equitable distribution of resources to avoid conflicts and ensure that all human beings can meet their basic needs.

iii.

1. Ethical Consumption: Gandhiji emphasized the importance of ethical consumption practices where individuals live within the means of their needs without succumbing to the greed that leads to overconsumption and exploitation of resources.
2. Global Inequality: His words also reflect concern regarding the unequal distribution of resources, where the greed of a few leads to scarcity for many. They highlight the need for a fair and just distribution of resources so that every individual's needs can be met without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.