STUDY HOUR

  1. Introduction North East India is a global biodiversity hotspot where traditional conservation practices are deeply intertwined with the spiritual and cultural fabric of indigenous communities. Among these practices, the protection of Sacred Groves , Large Ponds , and Lakes stands out as an ancient and effective method of community-based resource management. 2. Sacred Groves A. Distribution ●        Sacred groves are found extensively across all eight states of North East India, particularly in Meghalaya , Manipur , and Arunachal Pradesh . ●        In Meghalaya, they are known as Law Kyntang (Khasi hills) and Asong Khosi (Garo hills), covering approximately 1,000 square kilometres. ●        In Manipur, they are referred to as Umang Lai , managed by the Meitei community. B. Importance ●        Biodiversity Conservation: These groves act as...

  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). ○ ...