Daily Current Affairs : 6-November-2023
The wonder root, ‘makali beru’ or swallow root, has recently grabbed headlines for its miraculous revival from the brink of extinction. This unique plant species, known for its high medicinal value, faced the threat of extinction due to rampant illegal harvesting in the forests of the Male Mahadeshwara Hills (MM Hills) wildlife division in Chamarajanagar. However, concerted efforts and awareness campaigns have paved the way for its potential comeback, offering hope for biodiversity conservation.
Background: Makali Beru’s Significance
Makali beru, endemic to Peninsular India, holds a special place in both traditional medicine and culinary practices. Its roots boast significant medicinal properties, making it a key ingredient in Ayurvedic medicines. Additionally, the plant is valued in the pickle industry for its unique flavor, contributing to regional culinary traditions. This dual significance underscores the importance of preserving this wonder root for future generations.
Threats to Makali Beru
At one point, large quantities of makali beru flourished in the lush surroundings of Bannerghatta, BR Hills, MM Hills, and other areas within the Cauvery basin. However, illegal harvesting posed a severe threat, depleting the plant’s population and pushing it towards the edge of extinction. The loss of this species not only affects traditional practices but also disrupts the delicate balance of the ecosystem it thrives in.
Conservation Efforts: A Ray of Hope
Thankfully, dedicated conservationists and environmental organizations have stepped in to address the crisis. Their efforts involve:
- Raising awareness about the endangered status of makali beru, urging communities to refrain from illegal harvesting.
- Collaborating with local communities to promote sustainable harvesting practices, ensuring the plant can regenerate and thrive in its natural habitat.
- Establishing protected zones and sanctuaries where makali beru can flourish undisturbed, fostering a conducive environment for its growth.
The Way Forward: A Sustainable Future
The potential resurgence of makali beru serves as a testament to the impact of collective action in preserving biodiversity. Moving forward, it is imperative for stakeholders, including governments, communities, and environmentalists, to work hand in hand. Sustainable practices, stringent regulations against illegal harvesting, and community engagement are pivotal in ensuring the survival of endangered species like makali beru.
Important Points:
- Makali Beru Overview:
- Swallow root or makali beru is a plant species known for its high medicinal value.
- It faced extinction due to illegal harvesting in the Male Mahadeshwara Hills wildlife division.
- Endemic to Peninsular India, it is widely used in Ayurvedic medicines and the pickle industry.
- Significance of Makali Beru:
- Makali beru holds importance in both traditional medicine and culinary practices.
- Its roots are essential in Ayurvedic medicines for their medicinal properties.
- It is valued in the pickle industry for its unique flavor, contributing to regional culinary traditions.
- Threats to Makali Beru:
- Large quantities of makali beru were once found in areas like Bannerghatta, BR Hills, MM Hills, and the Cauvery basin.
- Illegal harvesting severely depleted the plant’s population, pushing it toward extinction.
- Loss of makali beru disrupts the ecosystem and affects traditional practices relying on the plant.
- Conservation Efforts:
- Conservationists and organizations are raising awareness about makali beru’s endangered status.
- Communities are encouraged to refrain from illegal harvesting through awareness campaigns.
- Sustainable harvesting practices are promoted, allowing the plant to regenerate naturally.
- Establishment of protected zones and sanctuaries to foster a conducive environment for makali beru’s growth.
- The Way Forward:
- Collective action involving governments, communities, and environmentalists is crucial.
- Sustainable practices and stringent regulations against illegal harvesting are necessary for makali beru’s survival.
- Community engagement plays a pivotal role in the preservation of endangered species like makali beru.
- Recognition of unique plant species’ significance contributes to the preservation of natural heritage and ensures a sustainable future.
Why In News
On the brink of extinction, the wonder root ‘makali beru’ is set to come out of the woods, offering a glimmer of hope for conservation efforts and the preservation of biodiversity.
MCQs about Makali Beru
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What is Makali Beru known for?
A) Its unique taste in culinary dishes
B) High medicinal value
C) Colorful flowers
D) Fast growth rate
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What caused the decline of Makali Beru’s population?
A) Climate change
B) Legal harvesting
C) Illegal harvesting
D) Disease
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What efforts were made to conserve Makali Beru?
A) Raising awareness, promoting sustainable harvesting, and establishing protected zones
B) Building more roads in the forest areas
C) Introducing foreign plant species
D) Encouraging more illegal harvesting
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