Forest Types of India — Set 4

Correct Answer: B. Tropical Dry Deciduous

Tropical Dry Deciduous forests are the largest forest type by area in India, covering approximately 38% of the total forest area. These forests are distributed across Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Telangana. The characteristic species include teak, sal, tendu, and various acacias. Their wide distribution makes them ecologically and economically very important for rural communities.

Correct Answer: B. Growing trees alongside agricultural crops on the same land

Agroforestry is an integrated land management system where trees are grown alongside agricultural crops and/or livestock on the same piece of land. This system provides multiple benefits including shade, soil improvement, fodder, timber, and fruits while the crops are grown simultaneously. India has a long tradition of agroforestry with systems like taungya and home gardens. The National Agroforestry Policy 2014 was launched to promote sustainable land use through agroforestry.

Correct Answer: C. Uttarakhand (then UP Hills)

The Chipko Movement originated in Uttarakhand (then part of Uttar Pradesh) in the early 1970s when villagers, led by Sunderlal Bahuguna and Chandi Prasad Bhatt, hugged trees to prevent contractors from felling them. 'Chipko' means 'to hug' or 'to stick to'. The movement was particularly active in Chamoli and Tehri districts. It inspired similar tree-protection movements across India and globally and is considered a landmark in environmental activism.

Correct Answer: B. Indo-Malayan

The Tropical Evergreen forests of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are part of the Indo-Malayan biogeographic zone, reflecting their closer biological affinity with Southeast Asian flora and fauna. These islands have unique species found nowhere else in India due to their oceanic isolation. The forests receive heavy rainfall from both monsoons and support diverse wildlife. The Andaman Islands are home to the Great Andamanese, Onge, Jarawa, and Sentinelese indigenous tribes.

Correct Answer: B. Preventing non-forest use of forest land without Central Government permission

The Forest Conservation Act 1980 (FCA) prevents the use of forest land for non-forest purposes (like mining, industry, or agriculture) without prior approval of the Central Government. This law significantly reduced the pace of deforestation by bringing all forest diversion decisions under central scrutiny. States must obtain clearance from the Ministry of Environment for any project in forest areas. The Act was amended in 2023 to streamline certain clearance processes.

Correct Answer: B. Ecological value of forest ecosystem services per hectare per year

Net Present Value (NPV) in forest context represents the monetary value of ecological services provided by forests per hectare per year. When forest land is diverted for non-forest use, project proponents must pay NPV compensation to the government. NPV takes into account services like carbon sequestration, water recharge, biodiversity support, and climate regulation. The Supreme Court of India mandated NPV payment in the T.N. Godavarman case.

Correct Answer: B. Turpentine

Chir Pine (Pinus roxburghii) trees are tapped for oleoresin from which turpentine and rosin are extracted. Turpentine is used as a solvent in paints, varnishes, and pharmaceuticals. Rosin is used in soaps, paper sizing, and adhesives. The tapping of Chir Pine is a traditional livelihood for many mountain communities in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. Sustainable tapping practices are important to maintain tree health.

Correct Answer: B. A week-long festival of tree planting in India observed in July

Van Mahotsav (Festival of Trees) is a week-long tree-planting festival observed in India during the first week of July each year. It was started in 1950 by K.M. Munshi, the then Union Agriculture Minister, to create public awareness about the importance of forests. Millions of saplings are planted across India during this week by government departments, schools, NGOs, and citizens. Van Mahotsav has helped promote afforestation as a popular movement.

Correct Answer: B. Eastern Himalayas and Northeast India

Temperate Broadleaved forests are found primarily in the Eastern Himalayas and Northeast India, receiving high rainfall and having temperate climate. Oak forests are a major component of these forests in Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim. The Khasi Hills in Meghalaya receive some of the highest rainfall in the world (Mawsynram, Cherrapunji), supporting exceptional forest growth. These forests harbour many endemic species and are part of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot.

Correct Answer: D. Crude Oil

Crude Oil is a petroleum product extracted from underground reserves and is NOT a forest product. Tendu leaves (used for making bidis), lac (a natural resin secreted by lac insects on trees), and bamboo are all important forest products. Minor Forest Produce (MFP) includes items like honey, fruits, roots, bark, and resins collected from forests. The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers Act 2006 recognises forest rights over MFP collection.