1. Introduction to Sacred Groves
MCQs
1. What are sacred groves?
a) Government-protected forests
b) Virgin forests preserved due to religious beliefs
c) Commercial plantations
d) National parks under government control
Answer: b) Virgin forests preserved due to religious beliefs
Explanation: Sacred groves are untouched forests conserved by local communities due to cultural and religious beliefs.
2. Which ancient belief system is responsible for the preservation of sacred groves?
a) Industrial development policies
b) Nature worship and tribal traditions
c) Urbanization trends
d) Government conservation acts
Answer: b) Nature worship and tribal traditions
Explanation: Many tribal communities believe that all creations of nature must be protected, leading to the conservation of sacred groves.
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2. Distribution of Sacred Groves in India
MCQs
3. Which Indian state is well known for its sacred groves?
a) Tamil Nadu
b) Meghalaya
c) Rajasthan
d) Punjab
Answer: b) Meghalaya
Explanation: Meghalaya has many sacred groves preserved by indigenous Khasi and Jaintia communities.
4. Which community in Rajasthan is famous for protecting sacred groves and wildlife?
a) Bhil
b) Bishnoi
c) Gond
d) Santhal
Answer: b) Bishnoi
Explanation: The Bishnoi community of Rajasthan is known for its conservation efforts, especially in protecting blackbucks and sacred groves.
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3. Religious and Cultural Significance
MCQs
5. Which tree is worshipped by the Mundas and Santhals of the Chota Nagpur region?
a) Peepal
b) Mahua (Bassia latifolia)
c) Neem
d) Eucalyptus
Answer: b) Mahua (Bassia latifolia)
Explanation: The Mundas and Santhals revere the mahua tree, which is significant in their cultural and religious practices.
6. During which ceremonies do tribals in Odisha and Bihar worship tamarind and mango trees?
a) Harvest festivals
b) Birth ceremonies
c) Weddings
d) Funerals
Answer: c) Weddings
Explanation: Tamarind and mango trees are worshipped during wedding ceremonies in some tribal communities of Odisha and Bihar.
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4. Role in Biodiversity Conservation
MCQs
7. What type of biodiversity is often preserved in sacred groves?
a) Only medicinal plants
b) A wide range of flora and fauna, including rare species
c) Only trees used for commercial purposes
d) Domestic animals like cows and goats
Answer: b) A wide range of flora and fauna, including rare species
Explanation: Sacred groves serve as biodiversity hotspots, protecting rare plant and animal species.
8. Which species of animals are commonly protected in and around sacred groves in India?
a) Tigers and leopards
b) Macaques, langurs, and blackbucks
c) Elephants and rhinoceroses
d) Domestic cats and dogs
Answer: b) Macaques, langurs, and blackbucks
Explanation: Many sacred groves provide habitat to primates and herbivores like blackbucks, which are protected by local communities.
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5. Challenges and Conservation Efforts
MCQs
9. What is a major threat to the survival of sacred groves?
a) Increased religious beliefs
b) Urbanization and deforestation
c) Government protection programs
d) More people practicing nature worship
Answer: b) Urbanization and deforestation
Explanation: Rapid urbanization, deforestation, and commercial development pose a threat to the existence of sacred groves.
10. How can sacred groves be preserved for future generations?
a) By encouraging urban development in forest areas
b) By promoting awareness and including them in conservation programs
c) By clearing forests for plantations
d) By allowing commercial use of forest products
Answer: b) By promoting awareness and including them in conservation programs
Explanation: Sacred groves can be preserved through local participation, awareness programs, and legal protection.
