Sacred groves, which are regarded as the miscellany of climax vegetation, form a vital part of the life support system of our planet earth. They ensure that we get clean air to breathe, wholesome food and medicines and clean drinking water, not only for human beings but also for the innumerable species surviving on this earth. Studies have enumerated 13,270 sacred groves in India. Out of this, 138 ha come under undisturbed vegetation and 3,188 ha under vegetation with open canopy. Sacred groves are treasures of numerous trees and epiphytes and other living organisms like amphibians, reptiles, butterflies and birds. The trees in sacred groves are more protected due to the traditional belief and respect associated with them. However, this is absent for the ordinary trees. Sacred groves are valued and revered for several ecosystem services ranging from its role as source of food and water, mitigation of flood and drought, role in carbon sequestration and nutrient cycling and supporting the society with recreational and spiritual services. However, with modernization and changing beliefs among the younger generation, many of the groves are in the verge of extinction. There is a need to revalorize the ancient philosophy of the traditional conservation customs validating it with sound scientific back up, highlighting the ecosystem dynamics and ecological functions of the sacred groves.
Sacred Groves, Fading Footprints, Nature, climax vegetation
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