Question

What are sacred groves? What is their role in conservation?

Answer 1

Ans : sacred groves are forest patches around places of worship which are held in high esteem by tribal communities. They are the most undisturbed forest patches which are often surrounded by highly degraded landscapes. They are found in several parts of India, e.g., karnataka , Maharastra, kerala, Meghalaya, temples built by tribals are found surrounded by Deodar forests in Kumaon region , jaintias and khasias in meghalaya.

Not a single branch is allowed to be cut from these forests. As a result , many endemic species which are rare or have become extinct elsewhere can be seen to flourish here.

Some water bodies are also held sacred in certain places. Their aquatic flora and fauna are naturally preserved.