This question tests knowledge about the specific legal and administrative procedures involved in declaring protected areas that include marine territories in India. It requires understanding which authority is responsible for hydrographic surveys and charting, which is crucial when defining maritime boundaries for sanctuaries.
Correct Option: A) Chief Naval Hydrographer
The Chief Naval Hydrographer is the authority responsible for all hydrographic surveys and nautical charting in India. When territorial waters are included in a sanctuary, their expertise is crucial for accurate demarcation, ensuring navigational safety, and avoiding conflicts with existing maritime uses. Therefore, their consultation is mandatory.
The question asks to identify a National Park known for its unique characteristic of being a swamp with floating vegetation that supports rich biodiversity. This requires knowledge of the specific features of various National Parks in India.
Correct Option: B) Keibul Lamjao National Park is located in Manipur and is the only floating national park in the world. It is characterized by its unique floating masses of vegetation called 'Phumdis' on Loktak Lake. These Phumdis support a rich ecosystem, including the endangered Sangai (brow-antlered deer), which is endemic to this region.
The question asks to identify the wildlife sanctuaries and tiger reserve that are part of the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve. This requires knowledge of the geographical locations and constituent protected areas of various biosphere reserves in India.
A) Neyyar, Peppara and Shendurney wildlife Sanctuaries; and Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve are indeed the key protected areas that constitute the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve. Neyyar, Peppara, and Shendurney are in Kerala, while Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve is in Tamil Nadu. The Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve was added to UNESCO's World Network of Biosphere Reserves in 2016.
The question asks about the authority responsible for determining rights over land within a proposed wildlife sanctuary. This falls under the provisions of wildlife protection laws in India, specifically the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Correct Option: A) The Collector is the designated authority under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, to inquire into and determine the rights over land within a proposed sanctuary.
The question asks to identify who among the given options is NOT allowed entry into a Protected Area without a permit. This requires understanding the regulations governing entry into Protected Areas, such as National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries, in India.
Correct Option: D) Scientists without permit. Scientists conducting research in Protected Areas are required to obtain specific permits. Without such a permit, they are not allowed to enter or conduct their activities within the area.
The question asks to identify an activity that is allowed in a National Park only with a permit. This tests knowledge about the regulations and permissible activities within protected areas like National Parks in India.
Correct Option: C) Photography. While casual photography by tourists is generally allowed, professional photography, filming, or photography using specialized equipment (e.g., drones, large crews) within a National Park typically requires a special permit from the park authorities. This is to regulate commercial activities, ensure minimal disturbance to wildlife, and manage visitor flow.