STUDY HOUR

  1. Introduction Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) encompass all biological materials other than timber that are extracted from natural forests for human use. In North East India, a global biodiversity hotspot, NTFPs play a critical role in the socio-economic and nutritional security of indigenous communities. 2. Bamboos and Canes (Rattan) A. Distribution ●        Bamboo: North East India is often called the "Bamboo Paradise," harbouring over 50% of India's bamboo genetic resources. Major species like Bambusa tulda , Dendrocalamus hamiltonii , and Meloconna baccifera are found extensively in Assam, Mizoram, and Manipur. ●        Canes/Rattan: Primarily distributed in the evergreen and semi-evergreen forests of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Meghalaya. Calamus species are the most dominant. B. Parts Used and Method of Use ●        Shoots: Young, tender bamboo shoots are ha...

    1. Hollong ( Dipterocarpus retusus ) Dipterocarpus retusus (syn. D. macrocarpus ), commonly known as Hollong , is a majestic hardwood and the State Tree of both Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. It belongs to the family Dipterocarpaceae (Grow-Trees, 2026). A. Distribution ●        Regional Range: In North East India, it is primarily distributed across the alluvial deposits of the Brahmaputra valley, particularly in Upper Assam , Arunachal Pradesh , and Nagaland (Thakur et al., 2002). ●        Habitat: It thrives in moist evergreen to semi-deciduous montane forests at altitudes ranging from 100 m to 1500 m. It prefers well-drained, acidic red laterite soils (CABI Compendium, 2020; Thakur et al., 2002). B. Parts Used and Method of Use ●        Timber (Bole): The tree produces a clean, cylindrical commercial bole reaching up to 40-50 meters (Thakur et al., 2002). ○ ...

            Ethno-Zoology and Nutritional Value of Endemic Fauna in North East India Introduction North East India, a global biodiversity hotspot, is characterized by a wide variety of endemic fauna that serves as a vital nutritional resource for its diverse ethnic communities. The consumption of aquatic and terrestrial animals is deeply rooted in the region's socio-cultural and economic framework. 1. Endemic Fishes The region is a major hub for ichthyofaunal diversity, with fish serving as a primary protein source. ●        Distribution: Found across the Brahmaputra and Barak river systems, as well as the hilly terrains of Manipur, Nagaland, and Meghalaya. ●        Groups & Species: ○        Carps & Minnows: Species like Labeo gonius (Kurhi) and Amblypharyngodon mola (Mola) are widely distributed. ○       ...