Forest Types of India — Set 12

Correct Answer: B. A scheme for value addition and marketing of Minor Forest Produce for tribal communities

Van Dhan Vikas Kendra (VDVK) is a scheme launched under TRIFED (Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India) to promote value addition and marketing of Minor Forest Produce (MFP) and tribal crafts by tribal communities. These centres aggregate MFP, add value through processing, and link tribal producers to markets. The scheme aims to increase income for forest-dependent tribal communities while ensuring sustainable harvesting. It is part of the larger Van Dhan tribal empowerment initiative.

Correct Answer: B. Pioneer/Secondary Forests

Pioneer or Secondary Forests regenerate fastest after disturbance as they are dominated by fast-growing, light-demanding species that quickly colonise cleared areas. Pioneer species like bamboo, lantana (in disturbed areas), and fast-growing trees can establish rapidly. Secondary forests are ecologically important as transitional stages toward mature forest recovery. In Northeast India, secondary forests in Jhum fallows play an important role in the landscape ecology.

Correct Answer: B. Serving as breeding and nursery grounds for marine fish and shrimp

Mangrove forests serve as crucial breeding and nursery grounds for marine fish, shrimp, and other seafood species. The complex root systems of mangroves provide shelter and food for juvenile fish, protecting them from predators. Many commercially important fish species spend their juvenile stage in mangrove habitats. Loss of mangroves directly reduces fish catches in coastal areas. This nursery function makes mangroves extremely valuable for the livelihoods of coastal fishing communities in India.

Correct Answer: B. Lantana camara

Lantana camara is a highly invasive alien species found across Indian forests, originally from tropical America and introduced as an ornamental plant during British colonial times. It has spread aggressively across dry deciduous forests and wildlife reserves, outcompeting native vegetation and reducing biodiversity. Lantana creates impenetrable thickets that make forests unsuitable for many native wildlife species. Controlling Lantana is a major challenge and expense in wildlife reserves across India including tiger reserves.

Correct Answer: B. A centrally sponsored scheme for afforestation and eco-restoration of degraded forest lands

The National Afforestation Programme (NAP) is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme for afforestation, eco-restoration, and regeneration of degraded forest lands. It works through a decentralised approach via Forest Development Agencies (FDAs) at the forest division level and Joint Forest Management Committees at the village level. The programme provides funds for site preparation, planting, and maintenance of plantations. NAP targets degraded forest areas under forest cover but lacking adequate vegetation.

Correct Answer: B. Odisha

Simlipal Biosphere Reserve is located in Odisha in the Mayurbhanj district. It is one of India's largest biosphere reserves covering about 4,374 sq km. Simlipal is famous for its sal-dominated forests, elephants, tigers, and unique Gaur (Indian bison) population. It is a UNESCO Man and Biosphere (MAB) reserve. Simlipal is also a Tiger Reserve and has cultural significance for the indigenous Kolha and Santal tribal communities of the region.

Correct Answer: B. Creating a transition area that reduces human-wildlife conflict and protects the core zone

Buffer zones in National Parks and Tiger Reserves serve as transition areas that reduce human-wildlife conflict while protecting the core conservation area. In buffer zones, limited sustainable activities like collection of minor forest produce, regulated grazing, and traditional uses by local communities are allowed. This helps maintain local livelihoods while reducing pressure on core areas. Well-managed buffer zones with community participation improve conservation outcomes in the connected core zone.

Correct Answer: B. 1972

The Wildlife Protection Act was enacted in India in 1972, providing a comprehensive legal framework for the protection of wildlife and their habitats. The Act established a system of protected areas including National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves, and Community Reserves. It prohibits hunting and trade in wildlife and wildlife products. The Act has been amended several times, with major amendments in 2002 and 2022. It covers all wild animals, birds, and plants across India.

Correct Answer: B. Meeting the fuel, fodder, and small timber needs of rural communities through tree planting on non-forest lands

Social Forestry Programme is primarily aimed at meeting the fuel, fodder, timber, and non-timber forest produce needs of rural and tribal communities through tree planting on non-forest lands including wastelands, farmlands, and roadsides. It reduces the burden on natural forests by creating alternative tree resources near villages. Farm forestry, agro-forestry, roadside planting, and community plantations are components of social forestry. The programme was significantly expanded in India during the 1980s with World Bank support.

Correct Answer: B. The rate at which existing forests are lost to other land uses per year

Deforestation Rate measures the annual rate at which existing forests are converted to non-forest land uses such as agriculture, urban development, roads, or mining. It is typically expressed in hectares per year or as a percentage of total forest area. India's official deforestation data shows relatively modest rates due to compensatory plantations and natural regeneration. However, global forest monitoring organisations often report higher deforestation rates especially for natural forest loss. Reducing deforestation is critical for climate and biodiversity targets.