Previous Year Question
With reference to Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), consider the following statements. (2014)
It is an autonomous organisation under the Ministry of Environment and Forests.
It strives to conserve nature through action based research, education and public awareness.
It organises and conducts nature trails and camps for the general public.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
1 and 3
Only 2
2 and 3
All of these
Correct Answer: C
Detailed Solution
The Bombay Natural History Society is an independent non-governmental nature-conservation and research organization in India.
It was established on 15 September 1883 and is among the oldest nature-conservation organizations in India.
BNHS is not an autonomous organization constituted under the Ministry of Environment and Forests. Therefore, Statement 1 is not correct.
Its headquarters is located at ‘Hornbill House’ in Mumbai.
BNHS conducts scientific research on wildlife, birds, biodiversity and natural habitats.
It uses scientific information obtained through action-based research in conservation activities and policies.
Its objectives also include promoting nature conservation through education and public awareness. Therefore, Statement 2 is correct.
It organizes nature trails, birdwatching programmes, camps and environmental-education programmes for the general public and students. Therefore, Statement 3 is correct.
Renowned ornithologist Dr Salim Ali was associated with BNHS for a long period and popularized bird studies and conservation in India.
BNHS is the partner organization of BirdLife International in India.
It contributes to the identification and conservation of Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas.
BNHS publishes the scientific research periodical called the ‘Journal of the Bombay Natural History Society’.
It also publishes a nature and conservation magazine called ‘Hornbill’.
Its work integrates research, species conservation, habitat protection, education and citizen participation.