Sacred groves are areas of forest or woodland that are considered sacred by local communities, often due to their spiritual, cultural, or religious significance.
They are usually preserved from human exploitation, such as logging, hunting, or farming based on traditional beliefs and rituals.
They serve as an important site for worship, community rituals and conservation of biodiversity, often supporting rare or endangered species of plants and animals.
They help to maintain the ecological balance by acting as vital airshed areas, protecting against soil erosion and helping to regulate local microclimate.
India has well over 13,000 documented sacred forests, with Maharashtra, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Meghalaya, Rajasthan having rich abundance of groves.
Sacred Groves in different states
Kerala
- The Kaavu system is prevalent in Kerala.
- Some of the famous groves include Sree Deviot Kavu, Iringole Kavu, Kammadam Kavu.
Maharashtra
- Sacred forests in Maharashtra are known as Devrai, meaning the Forest of God.
- The Sahyadri mountains in Maharashtra are home to numerous sacred forest.
Rajasthan
- Sacred Groves in Rajasthan are known as Dev Van.
- Sacred forests around Udaipur and Mount Abu are good examples.
1. The theme of Global Hunger Index 2024 is:
(a) “Ending Hunger Through Economic Growth.”
(b) “How Gender Justice Can Advance Climate Resilience and Zero Hunger.”
(c) “Collaboration for Sustainable Food Systems.”
(d) “Global Partnerships for Ending Hunger.”
2. Which of the following countries is NOT a member of the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD)?
(a) China
(b) Myanmar
(c) Bhutan
(d) Indonesia
Read more: Global Hunger Index 2024
