Natural Resources :
The materials obtained from nature are directly or indirectly necessary for human beings and human development cannot be imagined without them. These are known as natural resources.
I. Water resources :
Water is used by man in different ways such as domestic use, industries, electricity production, fisheries and irrigation, etc. World’s 97% water is in oceans which is not useful due to salinity. Thus, the quantity of water for human use is less. Excess and shortage of water is dangerous in the form of flood and drought. In the year 2013, the flood in Uttrakhand had caused a great loss to life and property.
II. Mineral Resources :
The resources found under the earth naturally, are called mineral resources. After obtaining them, they are purified through physical and chemical processes. Mineral wealth is the basis of economic prosperity of any country. World’s 40% trade is associated with minerals.
The minerals are of two kinds :
1. Metallic minerals
2. Non-Metallic minerals.
Metallic minerals, after obtaining them, are purified through chemical process, for example : iron, copper, lead, zinc, gold, silver, etc. Besides, non-metallic minerals are not purified but used directly, for example : asbestos, emerald, limestone, salt, granite and marble, etc. Mining and processing of minerals cause an adverse effect on environment.
III. Soil erosion :
Soil is also a priceless wealth. Soil is made from the decomposition of rocks, vegetative matter and other organic materials. In the lack of this resource, life cannot be imagined. Landslide, soil erosion and desertification are harming our land resources. Thus, attempts should be made to check them. Landslides due to sliding of rocks from mountain slopes cause great losses of life and property. Agricultural production is badly affected by soil erosion and desertification.
