Part of: Rajasthan Gk set 15

Which of the following community in Rajasthan has a religious tenet of conservation of forest and wildlife?

Category: Rajasthan Gk

Hint: Consider the community known for its environmental conservation practices.

Correct Answer: C) Bishnoi

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The Bishnoi community in Rajasthan is renowned for its strong religious tenets that emphasize the conservation of forests and wildlife. This community was founded in the 15th century by Guru Jambheshwar, who preached the importance of environmental protection. The Bishnoi religion is based on 29 principles, known as the Bishnoi Dharma, which include the protection of trees and wildlife. One of the most famous incidents that highlight the Bishnoi community's commitment to conservation is the Khejarli massacre, where 363 Bishnoi men, women, and children sacrificed their lives to protect khejri trees from being cut down for a royal palace.

The Bishnoi community's conservation practices are deeply rooted in their religious beliefs. They believe that all living beings are interconnected and that harming the environment is equivalent to harming oneself. This belief system has led to the preservation of large tracts of forest and wildlife in Rajasthan, particularly in areas where the Bishnoi community is predominant. The community's efforts have been recognized by the Indian government, which has designated several areas as Bishnoi wildlife sanctuaries.

While other communities in Rajasthan, such as the Agarwals and Gujjars, have their own cultural and social practices, they do not have a specific religious tenet focused on the conservation of forests and wildlife. The Agarwals are primarily known for their business and trading activities, and the Gujjars are traditionally nomadic and pastoral. The Jain community, while known for its philosophy of non-violence (ahimsa) that extends to all living beings, does not have a specific religious tenet focused solely on the conservation of forests and wildlife.

Therefore, the Bishnoi community stands out for its unique religious tenets that emphasize the conservation of forests and wildlife, making it the correct answer to the question.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: The Agarwal community is primarily known for its business and trading activities, and does not have a specific religious tenet focused on conservation of forests and wildlife.
  • Option B: The Gujjar community is traditionally nomadic and pastoral, and while they may have some practices related to the environment, they do not have a specific religious tenet focused on conservation of forests and wildlife.
  • Option C: The Bishnoi community is known for its strong religious tenets that emphasize the conservation of forests and wildlife. This community was founded by Guru Jambheshwar, who preached the importance of environmental protection, making this the correct answer.
  • Option D: The Jain community has a philosophy of non-violence (ahimsa) that extends to all living beings, but it does not have a specific religious tenet focused solely on the conservation of forests and wildlife.

Mnemonic: Bishnoi: B for Biodiversity

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