The remote village of Amani, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, has long relied on the glacial meltwater of the sacred Mount Kailash for its survival. For generations, a carefully balanced system of water distribution, based on communal agreement and respect for tradition, ensured equitable access for all residents. However, the recent construction of a hydroelectric dam downstream, by a multinational corporation, has disrupted this delicate equilibrium. The dam diverts a significant portion of the glacial meltwater, leaving Amani with drastically reduced water resources. Crops are failing, livestock are dying, and the community faces the threat of severe water scarcity. Initially, the villagers protested the dam's construction, but their pleas were ignored by the corporation, which cited economic development and national energy needs as justification. Faced with the potential collapse of their way of life, the villagers, guided by their elder, Ma Ganga, decided to adopt a strategy of non-violent resistance. Instead of resorting to violence or legal battles, which they knew they could not afford, they employed creative methods of peaceful protest. They organized daily silent vigils at the dam site, singing traditional songs and holding prayer ceremonies. They painted murals depicting the historical connection between their village and the mountain's water, symbolizing the spiritual and cultural significance of the river. They appealed to national and international human rights organizations, garnering support from environmental activists and media outlets. Their persistent and unwavering non-violent resistance gradually gained international attention. The corporation, facing increasing pressure from investors and consumers concerned about its environmental and social impact, was forced to negotiate. After months of dialogue, a compromise was reached that ensured a more sustainable water distribution, safeguarding Amani's access to the essential resource and acknowledging the community's indigenous rights. The resolution, while imperfect, demonstrated the power of non-violent resistance in addressing environmental injustices and protecting the rights of vulnerable communities.
1. What was the initial response of the villagers of Amani to the construction of the hydroelectric dam?
2. What strategy did Ma Ganga and the villagers adopt to address the water scarcity issue?
3. Which of the following best describes the outcome of the villagers’ non-violent resistance?
4. What role did international attention play in the resolution of the conflict?
5. The passage primarily focuses on which of the following themes?