In the context of Ladakh, what is… - NCERT Class 7 Geography MCQ

NCERT Class 7 Geography — Chapter 2: Life in the Deserts

mcqeasy

In the context of Ladakh, what is 'Shahtoosh'?

NCERT textbook question

From NCERT The Earth Our Habitat · Page 5

Options

AA type of cheese made from Yak milk.
BA traditional dance form.
CA local variety of apricot.
DA type of wool obtained from the Chiru.

Did you get this right?

Solution

Correct Option

The correct option is

A type of wool obtained from the Chiru.

Explanation

Shahtoosh (Persian for "King of Wools") is an ultra-fine fiber obtained from the undercoat of the Tibetan Antelope, locally known as the Chiru (Pantholops hodgsonii).

Detailed Analysis

Source: The Chiru inhabits the high-altitude plateaus of Tibet and the Changthang region of Ladakh. The wool is renowned for being extremely light yet providing immense warmth.
Ecological Impact: Unlike Pashmina, which is sheared from live goats, Shahtoosh is traditionally collected by killing the Chiru. This unsustainable practice has critically endangered the species.
Legal Status: The Chiru is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, affording it absolute protection. Furthermore, international trade in Shahtoosh is banned under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora).

Key Takeaway: Shahtoosh is a banned wool derived from the endangered Tibetan Antelope (Chiru), distinct from Pashmina which is obtained from the Changthangi goat.

Your note

More from Chapter 2: Life in the Deserts

The discovery of skeletons of which one of the following aquatic creatures in the Sahara Desert suggests a humid past?

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With reference to the people of the Sahara Desert, consider the following statements: 1. The Bedouins and Tuaregs are settled agricultural communities. 2. They rear livestock such as goats, sheep, camels, and horses. 3. They wear heavy robes as protection against dust storms and hot winds. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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With reference to the Sahara Desert, consider the following statements: 1. It covers a large part of North Africa. 2. It touches exactly three countries. 3. Its total area is more than double the area of India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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Which of the following statements regarding the 'Tuaregs' is true? 1. They are traditionally nomadic tribes. 2. They are strictly prohibited from working in the oil and gas sector. 3. They act as guides to foreign tourists. Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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Which one of the following local terms refers to Ladakh as the 'Snow Land'?

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