What are Forests?
Forests are large areas with dense growth of various types of plants (herbs, shrubs, and trees). They act as a home for wild animals, birds, and insects.
Benefits of Forests
- Habitat: Provide food and shelter to animals.
- Soil Conservation: Roots hold the soil, preventing it from washing away (soil erosion).
- Nutrient Cycle: Fallen leaves decay and turn into humus, enriching the soil for new plants.
- Resources: Provide wood, fruits (like nellikai or gooseberry), medicines, and more.
Conservation of Forests
Deforestation (cutting down trees) destroys habitats and reduces air quality. It takes many years for a forest to regenerate.
Van Mahotsav
- A week-long forest festival celebrated in July in India.
- New plants and trees are planted across the country to increase green cover.
The Chipko Movement
A famous effort to save forests started in the early 1970s in Uttarakhand.
- Action: Local women actively participated by encircling and “hugging” (Chipko) trees to protect them from woodcutters.
- Significance: It highlighted the importance of forests for local communities and the environment.
Note
Sacred Groves: India has a long tradition of protecting forest patches as “Sacred Groves,” showing a deep cultural respect for nature.