MHI-08: History of Ecology and Environment in India

MHI-08: History of Ecology and Environment in India – Assignment Answer Index (2024-25)

IGNOU MHI-08 Solved Assignment (2024-25) Below are the solved answers for the MHI-08: History of Ecology and Environment in India course, as per the latest 2024-25 assignment guidelines. Each answer is written in over 500 words in simple, student-friendly language and published individually for easy reading and sharing. Click on each question below to view […]

MHI-08: History of Ecology and Environment in India – Assignment Answer Index (2024-25) Read More »

Discuss the salient feature of Gandhi’s non-industrial model of development.

Introduction Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of development was fundamentally different from the industrial and capitalist models propagated during colonial and modern times. His non-industrial model emphasized self-reliance, village-centric economies, simplicity, and sustainability. Grounded in ethical and ecological values, Gandhi’s ideas offered an alternative to exploitative and environmentally damaging industrialization. This essay explores the key features of

Discuss the salient feature of Gandhi’s non-industrial model of development. Read More »

Is there an inevitable contradiction between ‘environment’ and ‘development’? Discuss.

Introduction The debate on the relationship between environment and development has been central to modern policy discourse. On one side, development demands industrial growth, infrastructure expansion, and economic acceleration, often leading to environmental degradation. On the other, environmental conservation emphasizes sustainability, resource preservation, and ecological balance. This has raised the question: Is there an inevitable

Is there an inevitable contradiction between ‘environment’ and ‘development’? Discuss. Read More »

Pre-Colonial water management system was very different from the colonial water management systems. Elaborate.

Introduction Water management has been a cornerstone of civilizations across the Indian subcontinent. Pre-colonial India had a decentralized, community-based approach to managing water resources, adapted to local geography and climate. In contrast, colonial water management introduced centralized, revenue-oriented systems that often disrupted traditional practices. This essay explores the fundamental differences between the two approaches and

Pre-Colonial water management system was very different from the colonial water management systems. Elaborate. Read More »

How did the Industrial revolution and its spread shaped the colonial power’s perception of environment?

Introduction The Industrial Revolution was a major turning point in global history, transforming economies, societies, and environments. Originating in Britain in the late 18th century, it spread to other parts of Europe and eventually influenced colonial powers, including their rule in India. The revolution altered the colonial powers’ perception of the environment — from a

How did the Industrial revolution and its spread shaped the colonial power’s perception of environment? Read More »

Write a note on the significance of conservation of Environment.

Introduction Environmental conservation is the practice of protecting and managing the natural environment and its resources to prevent degradation and ensure sustainability for future generations. In a world increasingly threatened by climate change, pollution, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion, the importance of environmental conservation has never been more urgent. In the context of India—one of

Write a note on the significance of conservation of Environment. Read More »

Discuss the introduction of bronze in Indian history and examine the significance of this process.

Introduction The introduction of bronze marked a revolutionary phase in Indian history, leading to technological, economic, and cultural transformations. Bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, played a significant role in the emergence of urbanization, craft specialization, and complex social structures. Known as the Bronze Age, this period in India (c. 2500–1500 BCE) was most

Discuss the introduction of bronze in Indian history and examine the significance of this process. Read More »

Discuss the pattern of agrarian expansion in the Indian subcontinent.

Introduction Agrarian expansion in the Indian subcontinent has been a defining feature of its social, economic, and ecological history. It refers to the progressive extension of agriculture into new territories, conversion of forests and wastelands into cultivable fields, and intensification of agricultural activities over time. From the early Vedic period to the colonial era, the

Discuss the pattern of agrarian expansion in the Indian subcontinent. Read More »

Ecological impacts of Colonial interventions on Indian natural resources have been the prime concerns of environmental historians.

Introduction The colonial era in India marked a significant transformation in the management and exploitation of natural resources. British interventions in forestry, land, agriculture, and water systems had far-reaching ecological consequences that continue to affect India’s environment. Environmental historians have extensively studied these changes to understand how colonial economic and political priorities led to environmental

Ecological impacts of Colonial interventions on Indian natural resources have been the prime concerns of environmental historians. Read More »

Write a note on the human-natural resources use practices of pre-agricultural societies.

Introduction Pre-agricultural societies, also referred to as hunter-gatherer or foraging communities, represent the earliest phase of human existence. These societies had a symbiotic relationship with nature, relying on natural resources for food, shelter, and tools without significantly altering their environment. Their practices laid the foundation for understanding sustainable living and ecological balance. This essay explores

Write a note on the human-natural resources use practices of pre-agricultural societies. Read More »

Disabled !