Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 82

Goats are a tresure for the Changpa tribe people. Why?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the various resources that goats provide to the Changpa tribe.

Correct Answer: C) Both of these.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railway

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The Changpa tribe, a nomadic group primarily residing in the high-altitude regions of Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, and parts of Tibet, relies heavily on goats for their survival and cultural practices. Goats are a treasure for the Changpa tribe because they provide a wide range of resources that are essential for their daily life and cultural traditions.

One of the most significant resources provided by goats is wool, particularly the pashmina wool. Pashmina wool is highly valued for its softness and warmth, and it is used to make world-famous pashmina shawls and other garments. The Changpa tribe is known for their expertise in producing high-quality pashmina wool, which is a major source of income for them. The wool is obtained from a specific breed of goat, the Changthangi goat, which is well-adapted to the harsh, cold climate of the region.

However, the utility of goats for the Changpa tribe extends far beyond just wool production. Goats also provide milk, which is a vital source of nutrition for the tribe. Goat milk is rich in nutrients and is often consumed fresh or used to make cheese and other dairy products. Additionally, goats are a source of meat, which is an important part of the tribe's diet. The meat is not only consumed for its nutritional value but also plays a role in various cultural and religious ceremonies.

The skin of goats is another valuable resource. It is used to make tents and other shelter materials, which are essential for the nomadic lifestyle of the Changpa tribe. The tents made from goat skin are durable and provide protection against the harsh weather conditions of the high-altitude regions. Furthermore, the skin is also used to make clothing items such as coats and sweaters, which are essential for keeping warm in the cold climate.

In summary, goats are a treasure for the Changpa tribe because they provide a wide range of resources, including wool for pashmina production, milk, meat, and skin for shelter and clothing. The correct answer is Option C, as it encompasses both the production of pashmina wool and the other essential resources provided by goats to the Changpa tribe.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is partially correct as the Changpa tribe does use goats to produce pashmina wool, which is highly valued. However, it does not encompass the full range of benefits that goats provide to the tribe.
  • Option B: This option is also partially correct as it lists several important resources that goats provide to the Changpa tribe, including milk, meat, skin, and wool. However, it does not mention the specific use of pashmina wool.
  • Option C: This option is correct as it combines the benefits mentioned in both Option A and Option B, providing a comprehensive understanding of the importance of goats to the Changpa tribe.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect as it dismisses the significant role that goats play in the lives of the Changpa tribe, which is clearly not the case.

Mnemonic: G-C: Goats - Changpa (Gives everything)

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