Types of Forests in India, Water Scarcity, and Watershed Development

Types of Forests in India

Reserved Forests

These forests are earmarked only for the production of timber. Grazing of animals and cultivation of crops are not allowed in these forests. About 54% of forests are grouped under reserved forests.

Protected Forests

These forests are protected from further depletion. The right of grazing and cultivation is allowed with certain restrictions. About 29% of forests come under protected forests.

Unclassed Forests

There are no restrictions in these forests. These forests belong to the government and private individuals. About 16% of forests are unclassed forests.

Project Tiger: A Conservation Success Story

The tiger is one of the most important species among fauna. It was estimated that the population of tigers has decreased rapidly in the last one hundred years. Major reasons identified behind the depletion of tigers were hunting and poaching, deforestation, and depletion of prey. Project Tiger was started in 1973 to protect them from extinction. There are 27 tiger reserves in India. Project Tiger has successfully improved the condition. The population of tigers increased from 1800 to about 3600 in the last 30 years.

Water Scarcity in India

When water is not available in sufficient quantity and quality for all the people in an area, it is called water shortage or water scarcity. Water scarcity leads to drought and famine and claims thousands of lives every year in India.

Causes of Water Scarcity:

• Amount of rainfall less than normal
• Over-exploitation of groundwater by tube wells in the cities
• Excess use of water for irrigation to grow more crops
• Water pollution by dumping of waste from cities and industries
• Flood [Water is polluted and becomes unfit for use]

Watershed Development

An area drained by a tributary is called a watershed. All-around development of this area is called watershed development. Sukhmajri Village in Haryana is the best example of watershed development.

Attempts Made Under Watershed Development:

• Conservation of soil and moisture
• Afforestation and forest upgradation
• Water harvesting
• Development of horticulture
• Pasture development
• Supply of drinking water