Practicing Success

Target Exam

CUET

Subject

Biology

Chapter

Biodiversity and Conservation

Question:

In which regions of India are sacred groves typically found?

Options:

Jaintia hills of Karnataka

Western Ghat regions of Tamil Nadu

Aravalli hills of Meghalaya

Chanda and Bastar areas of Madhya Pradesh

Correct Answer:

Chanda and Bastar areas of Madhya Pradesh

Explanation:

The correct answer is Option (4) -Bastar areas of Madhya Pradesh

Sacred groves in India are forest patches or natural areas that are considered sacred and are protected due to their religious or cultural significance. They are typically found around places of worship, temples, or other religious sites. 

The conservation of sacred groves is an example of in situ conservation, where natural habitats are preserved in their original locations, and human activities are limited to ensure the protection of biodiversity and the cultural heritage associated with these sacred sites.

India has also a history of religious and cultural traditions that emphasised protection of nature. In many cultures, tracts of forest were set aside, and all the trees and wildlife within were venerated and given total protection.  Such sacred groves are found in Khasi and Jaintia Hills in Meghalaya, Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan, Western Ghat regions of Karnataka and Maharashtra and the Sarguja, Chanda and Bastar areas of Madhya Pradesh. In Meghalaya, the sacred groves are the last refuges for a large number of rare and threatened plants.