VEGETATION IN RAJASTHAN

VEGETATION IN RAJASTHAN

1. Forest Policies

Rajasthan’s forest policies have evolved over time, reflecting the changing priorities of environmental conservation and the growing awareness of forest management. The key milestones in India’s forest policy development, specifically relevant to Rajasthan, include:

• 1894 – First Forest Policy (British Era): This was the earliest systematic forest policy aimed at utilizing forests for the economic benefits of the British Empire, with less focus on conservation.
• 1952 – Independent India’s First Forest Policy: After independence, forest management was seen as critical to sustainable development, emphasizing the importance of forests in maintaining ecological balance and meeting the needs of local communities.
• 1988 – Latest Forest Policy: This policy marked a significant shift towards conservation, aiming to increase forest cover across the country. It set a target of achieving 33% forest coverage, with particular attention to the needs of tribal and rural populations dependent on forests.

According to this policy, the forest coverage targets were classified based on geographical topography:

• 33% forest cover for the overall geographical area
• 60% forest cover in mountainous regions
• 20% forest cover in plain areas

State Forest Policy (2010): On 18th February 2010, Rajasthan adopted its own state-specific forest policy, which aligned with national goals. It stipulated that at least 20% of the state’s geographical area should be under forest cover.

State Eco-Tourism Policy (2020): Rajasthan also introduced an eco-tourism policy on 4th February 2020, aiming to promote sustainable tourism by integrating environmental conservation with tourist activities, especially in forest and wildlife areas.

2. Forest Census

Rajasthan conducts regular forest censuses to assess the current status of its forest cover, biodiversity, and conservation efforts.

• Institution: The Forest Survey and Research Institution in Dehradun (Uttarakhand), under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, is responsible for conducting this census.
• Time Frame: The census is conducted biennially, i.e., once every two years, providing updated information on forest conditions.
• Latest Census: The 16th Census (2019) is the most recent data collection, which helps policymakers assess whether the state is meeting its forest cover targets.

3. Classification of Forest

Forest classifications in Rajasthan are essential for understanding the varied types of ecosystems present in the state. These classifications could include the distinction between reserved forests, protected forests, and unclassified forests, but further details can be expanded based on Rajasthan’s unique forest typologies such as dry deciduous forests, scrub forests, and desert ecosystems.

4. Important Forest and Grass Types

Rajasthan is home to unique vegetation types suited to its semi-arid and arid climate. The state’s forest types include:

• Tropical Thorn Forests: Dominant in arid regions, with species such as Acacia, Prosopis, and Ziziphus.
• Dry Deciduous Forests: Found in more fertile regions, they include Teak (Tectona grandis) and Sal (Shorea robusta).

The grasslands, critical for both wildlife and local agriculture, include species like Dhaman and Dhub grass.

5. Afforestation Programmes

Afforestation and reforestation efforts have been crucial in Rajasthan to combat desertification and restore ecological balance. Various state-run and centrally sponsored schemes, like the Green Rajasthan Campaign, aim to increase green cover, especially in desert regions.

6. Forestry and Environment Awards

Rajasthan recognizes efforts in afforestation, conservation, and forest management through awards. These awards not only celebrate individuals and organizations contributing to the environment but also foster a culture of environmental responsibility.

7. Major Acts and Important Days

Several legislations and policies support Rajasthan’s forest management. Some key acts include:

• The Indian Forest Act (1927): Governs the protection of forests and wildlife in the state.
• The Wildlife Protection Act (1972): Critical for wildlife conservation efforts in forest areas like Ranthambore and Sariska.

Important environmental days celebrated in Rajasthan include:

• World Forestry Day (21st March): Highlights the importance of forest resources.
• World Environment Day (5th June): Encourages awareness about environmental protection.

8. Other Important Facts

Other significant details include the role of forests in supporting Rajasthan’s rich biodiversity, including endangered species such as the Rajasthan Desert Cat, Indian Gazelle, and various migratory birds that rely on forest ecosystems. Forests also serve as water catchment areas, crucial for Rajasthan’s arid climate.

Forest Coverage Targets According to the Latest Policy

The table above shows the targets set by the latest national forest policy regarding forest cover for different geographical areas.

The overall goal is to achieve 33% forest cover across the state, with a higher target of 60% in mountainous regions to preserve ecosystems in those vulnerable areas. The plains, being more agriculturally productive, have a lower target of 20%.

Timeline of Forest Policies

The timeline above represents the evolution of forest policies over time, reflecting how both national and state governments have responded to the increasing need for forest conservation and the sustainable use of natural resources.

Forest Area and Coverage (Based on the Indian State Forest Report, 16th Census)

The latest Indian State Forest Report (ISFR), which corresponds to the 16th Forest Census, provides detailed insights into the forest area in Rajasthan. The total forest area is documented as 24,741.51 km², which constitutes about 7.22% of the total land area of the state.

Breakdown of Forest Coverage

• Forest Cover: 16,629 km² (approximately 4.86% of the total area)
• Tree Cover: 8,112 km² (approximately 2.36% of the total area)

This data highlights that a significant portion of Rajasthan’s green cover is contributed by trees outside the designated forest areas.

Maximum and Minimum Forest Areas (District-wise)

According to the 16th Forest Report, the distribution of forest cover varies significantly across different districts.

• Maximum Forest Cover (by Area):
  1. Udaipur – 2,757 km²
  2. Alwar – 1,197 km²
  3. Pratapgarh – 1,038 km²
  4. Baran – 1,011 km²
• Maximum Forest Cover (by Percentage):
  1. Udaipur – 23.51%
  2. Pratapgarh – 23.33%
  3. Sirohi – 17.76%
  4. Karoli – 15.75%
• Minimum Forest Cover (by Area):
  1. Churu – 82 km²
  2. Hanumangarh – 90 km²
  3. Jodhpur – 108 km²
  4. Sri Ganganagar – 113 km²
• Minimum Forest Cover (by Percentage):
  1. Jodhpur – 0.47%
  2. Churu – 0.59%
  3. Nagaur – 0.83%
  4. Jaisalmer – 0.85%

Forest Trends: Maximum Increase and Decrease

The report also highlights districts that have seen the largest changes in forest cover:

• Highest Increase in Forest Cover:
  1. Barmer
  2. Jaisalmer
  3. Dungarpur
• Highest Decrease in Forest Cover:
  1. Udaipur
  2. Pratapgarh
  3. Jhalawar

These fluctuations in forest cover are often influenced by various factors, including afforestation programs, land use changes, and urbanization.

Recorded Forest Area

According to the report, Rajasthan has a total recorded forest area of 32,862.5 km², which is about 9.60% of the state’s total land area. This includes reserved, protected, and unclassified forests, each of which is subject to specific legal and administrative regulations.

Classification of Forests

Rajasthan’s forests are classified into two primary categories: Legal/Administrative Classification and Geographical Classification. The former is based on governance frameworks established under the State Forest Act of 1953, while the latter refers to the physical location and characteristics of the forested areas.

Legal/Administrative Classification

This type of classification is essential for forest management and resource use regulation. It includes the following subcategories:

1. Reserved Forest (37.05%):
   • Activities Restricted: Forest wood cutting, cattle grazing, and hunting are entirely prohibited. These forests are predominantly found in Udaipur.
2. Protected Forest (56.43%):
   • Limited Activities Permitted: Some exemptions allow limited wood cutting and cattle grazing. These forests are most common in Baran.
3. Unclassified Forest (6.52%):
   • No Restrictions: Wood cutting and cattle grazing are unrestricted in these areas. The largest unclassified forests are found in Bikaner.

Graphical Representation of Forest Classifications

The table and the associated chart provide a clear visual understanding of the legal classification of forests in Rajasthan, illustrating that over half of the recorded forest area falls under the category of protected forests. Reserved forests account for about one-third of the recorded forest area, with the remaining 6.52% being unclassified.

Based on the newly provided images, here’s an expanded and detailed analysis on the Classification of Forests in Rajasthan, along with a comprehensive description of the information and diagrams in the uploaded content.

CLASSIFICATION OF FORESTS IN RAJASTHAN

Rajasthan classifies its forests based on both Legal/Administrative and Geographical categories. This distinction helps in understanding forest management and conservation strategies.

(A) Legal/Administrative Classification

As per the State Forest Act of 1953, Rajasthan’s forests are categorized into three administrative types:

1. Reserved Forests (37.05% of the total forest area):
   • Restrictions: These areas are under strict protection, where forest wood cutting, cattle grazing, and hunting are entirely prohibited.
   • Major Regions: Reserved forests are primarily concentrated in Udaipur.
   • Conservation Focus: These forests are dedicated to conservation efforts and are critical for preserving biodiversity.
2. Protected Forests (56.43% of the total forest area):
   • Limited Activities Permitted: In protected forests, controlled activities such as restricted wood cutting and regulated cattle grazing are allowed under certain conditions.
   • Major Regions: Baran has the highest concentration of protected forests.
   • Use and Conservation: While some economic activities are permitted, the main focus remains on sustainable management.
3. Unclassified Forests (6.52% of the total forest area):
   • No Restrictions: There are no restrictions on human activities such as wood cutting and grazing in these areas.
   • Major Regions: Unclassified forests are primarily found in Bikaner.
   • Utilization: These forests are often used for local resource gathering without stringent conservation rules.

The legal classification helps in regulating forest use and maintaining balance between ecological conservation and human needs.

Legal/Administrative Classification of Forests in Rajasthan

The table above classifies forests based on their legal and administrative control, specifying the percentage of the total forest area under each category and the regions where they are most prominent. It also outlines the restrictions imposed for forest management.

(B) Geographical Classification

Rajasthan’s forests are also classified according to geographical characteristics, which include climate factors such as rainfall and temperature. This classification highlights the ecological diversity of Rajasthan’s forest ecosystems.

The major types of forests based on geography are:

(i) Tropical Thorny/Xerophytic Forests

• Rainfall: 0–30 cm annually.
• Forest Area: 6% of the total forest area.
• Regions: These forests are predominantly found in the arid desert regions of Rajasthan, including Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Barmer, and Jodhpur.
• Main Vegetation: Xerophytic plants like Cactus, Aloe Vera, and Thorny Bushes are dominant species in these forests.
• Importance: These forests are crucial in preventing desertification and stabilizing sand dunes in the desert regions. Their vegetation is highly drought-resistant.

(ii) Tropical Dhok Forests

• Rainfall: 30–60 cm annually.
• Forest Area: 58%, forming the largest forest area in Rajasthan.
• Regions: These forests thrive in the semi-arid desert regions, especially in areas like the Luni Basin, Nagaur, Shekhawati, Karauli, and Sawai Madhopur.
• Main Vegetation: The predominant species in these forests are Khejri, Rohida, Acacia/Babool, Ber, and Kair.
• Importance: These forests provide a vital source of fuelwood for local communities and support a variety of wildlife species.

(iii) Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests

• Rainfall: 50–80 cm annually.
• Forest Area: 28%.
• Regions: Found in regions such as Alwar, Bharatpur, Karauli, Dholpur, Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Bhilwara, and Rajsamand.
• Main Vegetation: These forests are rich in commercially valuable species like Sal, Teak, Rosewood (Shisham), Mango, and Sandalwood.
• Importance: These forests have the highest economic importance due to their timber production, which is vital for Rajasthan’s timber industry.

(iv) Tropical Teak Forests

• Rainfall: 75–110 cm annually.
• Forest Area: 7%.
• Regions: These forests are found in the southern regions of Banswara, Dungarpur, Pratapgarh, Kota, and Jhalawar.
• Main Vegetation: The dominant species include Gular, Mahua, and Tendu.
• Importance: Teak forests are valuable for industrial uses, particularly for timber, and also support the bidi-making industry through Tendu leaves.

(v) Sub-Tropical Evergreen Forests

• Rainfall: Over 150 cm annually.
• Forest Area: 1%.
• Regions: These forests are limited to the Mount Abu region.
• Main Vegetation: Dicliptera abu ansis (Ambarstari), Jamun, and Bamboo.
• Importance: These forests are known for their biodiversity, supporting a wide range of flora and fauna.

The diagram highlights the ecological distribution of forests in Rajasthan based on their rainfall patterns. This map emphasizes that Dhok forests cover the majority of the state due to their adaptability to Rajasthan’s semi-arid climate, while other forest types are more limited to regions with specific rainfall requirements.

Geographical Map and Diagram

The geographical diagram divides Rajasthan into distinct forest zones based on rainfall and vegetation type, providing a clear visualization of the state’s forest diversity:

• Thorny/Xerophytic Vegetation: Found in the arid west, with sparse rainfall.
• Dhok Forests: Covering the majority of the state, thriving in moderate rainfall conditions.
• Dry Deciduous Forests: Found in parts with slightly higher rainfall.
• Teak Forests: Restricted to regions receiving higher rainfall, mainly in the south.
• Sub-Tropical Evergreen Forests: Located in areas with the most rainfall, mainly in the southeast.

IMPORTANT FOREST SPECIES AND GRASSLANDS IN RAJASTHAN

Certain forest species are of significant cultural, ecological, and economic importance in Rajasthan. Below is a detailed description of key forest and grass species:

(i) Khejri (Prosopis Cineraria)

• Regions: Predominantly found in Western Rajasthan.
• Other Names: Known as the State Tree (since 1983), Shami tree, or Kalpvraksh of the state.
• Cultural Importance: The Khejri tree is worshiped during the festival of Vijayadashami/Dussehra, symbolizing victory and prosperity.
• Ecological Importance: This tree is crucial for maintaining soil fertility and providing fodder in arid regions.

(ii) Rohida (Tecomella undulata)

• Regions: Found extensively in Western Rajasthan.
• Other Names: Known as the State Flower (since 1983) and referred to as the Teak of the Desert.
• Economic Use: This tree is highly valued for its timber, which is used in furniture and construction.

(iii) Mahua (Madhuca longifolia)

• Regions: Found mainly in Dungarpur.
• Other Names: Referred to as the Kalpavriksha of Tribes.
• Economic Use: The flowers of the Mahua tree are used in making liquor, a significant source of income for tribal communities.

(iv) Palash/Dhak/Khakra (Butea monosperma)

• Regions: Found primarily in Rajasthan.
• Other Names: Known as The Flame of Forest due to its vibrant orange flowers.
• Cultural Importance: The tree is used in traditional medicine and its flowers are used for making dyes.

(v) Dicliptera Abu ansis/Ambertari

• Regions: Found only in Mount Abu, this medicinal plant is unique to this region.
• Medicinal Use: It has medicinal properties and is used for treating various ailments.

(vi) Khair (Acacia catechu)

• Regions: Found in Udaipur and Chittorgarh.
• Economic Use: The Katha prepared from Khair bark is a crucial ingredient in betel nut (pan) preparation, traditionally prepared by the Kathori tribe.

(vii) Mulberry/Shahoot (Morus alba)

• Regions: Predominantly in Udaipur.
• Economic Use: The leaves of the Mulberry tree support sericulture (silk production).

(viii) Tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon)

• Regions: Found in Pratapgarh, Chittorgarh, and Hadoti.
• Economic Use: The leaves are used to make Bidis (traditional Indian cigarettes).
• Historical Importance: The Tendu tree was nationalized in 1974 to protect its resources.

(ix) Jamun (Syzygium cumini)

• Regions: Grows in Mount Abu and Ajmer.
• Medicinal Use: The fruit is beneficial for treating diabetes.

(x) Teak (Tectona grandis)

• Regions: Primarily found in Banswara.
• Economic Use: Teak is highly valued for its timber, used in furniture and construction.

Main Grasses in Rajasthan 

Rajasthan, with its unique arid and semi-arid regions, is home to several grass species that play a vital role in the local ecosystem. These grasses serve various purposes, from providing fodder for animals to contributing to local industries.

(i) Sewan/Leelon Grass (Lasiurus Scindicus)

• Maximum Region: Found in Jaisalmer.
• Uses: This grass is used extensively as animal feed and is commonly referred to as the shelter of the Godavan, the state bird of Rajasthan. It helps sustain the livestock industry in the desert regions.

(ii) Dhaman Grass (Cenchrus Setigerus)

• Maximum Region: Predominantly found in Jaisalmer.
• Uses: Known for being a valuable fodder for milch animals, it supports the dairy industry, which is vital in Rajasthan’s economy.

(iii) Bamboo (Bambusa Vulgaris)

• Maximum Region: Found in Banswara.
• Other Names: Commonly referred to as “Green Gold”, it is highly valued among tribal communities.
• Uses: Bamboo is the longest grass species and is an essential resource for construction, handicrafts, and as a raw material in various industries.

(iv) Khas Grass

• Maximum Region: Found in Bharatpur, Sawai Madhopur, Tonk, and Ajmer.
• Uses: Khas grass is known for its fragrant roots, which are used in making syrups and perfumes. It has significant economic importance in the fragrance industry.

(v) Bur Grass

• Maximum Region: Found in Bikaner.
• Uses: Like Khas grass, Bur grass is also valued for its fragrance and is used in the perfume industry.

(vi) Mochia Grass

• Maximum Region: Found in Churu.
• Special Mention: This grass is found in the Tal Chhapar Sanctuary, where it plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem.

AFFORESTATION PROGRAMS IN RAJASTHAN

To counteract the effects of desertification and expand forest cover, Rajasthan has implemented several afforestation initiatives, supported by both national and international organizations.

(1) Desert Afforestation Program (1977-78)

• Regions: Implemented across 10 districts.
• Objective: Focuses on increasing green cover in Rajasthan’s desert regions to combat soil erosion and improve environmental sustainability.
• Financial Cooperation: The program is funded by the central government (75%) and the state government (25%).

(2) State Forest Action Plan (SEAP)

• Duration: 1996-2010 (20-year program).
• Objective: Aimed at long-term afforestation and forest conservation in the state, focusing on biodiversity conservation, soil, and water management.

(3) Aravalli Afforestation Plan (1992)

• Cooperation: Supported by the Government of Japan.
• Objective: Focuses on afforestation in the Aravalli ranges to restore degraded forest land and improve ecological balance in one of the most critical geographical regions of Rajasthan.

(4) Rajasthan Forest and Biodiversity Project (2003)

• Assistance: Funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
• Objective: Focuses on preserving biodiversity and expanding forest cover, especially in biodiversity hotspots across Rajasthan.

(5) Harit Rajasthan Yojna (2009-2014)

• Objective: A five-year afforestation program aimed at increasing the forest cover in the state and improving ecological sustainability.

(6) Van Dhan Yojna (12 August 2015)

• Objectives:
  • Reduce dependency on forests for forest-dwelling communities.
  • Provide employment opportunities through forest-based industries.
  • Conserve wildlife in forest regions.

The Van Dhan Yojna is particularly aimed at empowering communities living near forest areas by promoting sustainable livelihood options.

Afforestation Program Objectives:

1. Increase forest and biodiversity through large-scale plantation drives.
2. Conserve soil and groundwater by planting trees in desert and arid regions.
3. Alleviate poverty by providing employment opportunities in afforestation projects and promoting sustainable forest industries.

Phases of Implementation:

• Phase I (2003-2010): Covered 18 districts.
• Phase II (2011-2019): Extended to 15 districts, including 10 desert districts and 5 non-desert districts (Jaipur, Sirohi, Banswara, Dungarpur, Bhilwara).

Forest Conservation Awards

Forest and wildlife conservation play a critical role in maintaining Rajasthan’s biodiversity and ecological balance. Several awards recognize the efforts of individuals and institutions working towards these objectives.

(1) Amrita Devi Bishnoi Award (1994)

• Objective: This award recognizes excellence in:
  • Afforestation initiatives.
  • Forest conservation efforts.
  • Wildlife conservation.
• Award Levels:
  • Individual Forest Protection: ₹50,000
    • Example: Om Singh Rajawat (2018)
  • Individual Wildlife Protection: ₹50,000
    • Example: Satnam Singh Rajawat (2018)
  • Institutional Forest Protection and Management: ₹1,00,000
    • Example: Institutions like Wonder Cement Company (RK Nagar, Chittorgarh) and Forest Protection and Management Committee, Udaipur (Patiya).

The award is named after Amrita Devi Bishnoi, who, along with 363 other Bishnois, sacrificed her life in 1730 to protect Khejri trees from being cut down.

(2) Indira Priyadarshini Vriksh Mitra Puraskar

• Objective: This award is given by the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India to individuals and institutions that have made pioneering contributions in the field of afforestation and wasteland development.
• Prize Amount: ₹2.5 lakh.

(3) Rajeev Gandhi Environmental Conservation Award

• Initiation: This award was initiated in 2012 and is presented every year on June 5 to mark World Environment Day.

(4) Kailash Sankhala Wildlife Conservation Award

• Objective: This award is specifically aimed at recognizing contributions to wildlife protection. The award is named after Kailash Sankhala, known as the Tiger Man of India, for his extensive work in tiger conservation.
• Prize Amount: ₹50,000.

(5) Vanpal Award

• This award is given to officers, forest protectors, and other workers who demonstrate exceptional service in protecting forests and wildlife.

Acts Related to Forest and Wildlife Conservation

Rajasthan’s forest conservation efforts are bolstered by a framework of national laws, which provide the legal foundation for protecting the state’s natural resources.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON CONSERVATION ACTS, IMPORTANT DAYS, AND RELATED INSTITUTIONS IN RAJASTHAN

Key Conservation Acts in Rajasthan

Rajasthan has a strong legal framework aimed at the protection and conservation of wildlife and biodiversity. The following are key legislative acts enacted for conservation efforts:

1. Elephant Conservation Act (1992): This act aims to protect elephant populations and their habitats.
2. Biodiversity Conservation Act (2002): Focuses on protecting the state’s biodiversity by regulating access to biological resources and promoting sustainable use.
3. Dolphin Conservation Act (2009): Protects dolphin species, particularly freshwater dolphins.
4. Camel Conservation Act (2014): Aims to protect camels, which are important to the cultural and ecological fabric of Rajasthan.
5. Godawan Conservation Act (2014): Protects the Godawan (Great Indian Bustard), Rajasthan’s state bird, which is critically endangered.

Note: The Rajasthan State Biodiversity Board was established on 14 September 2010 in Jaipur to oversee biodiversity conservation across the state.

Important Days Related to Environmental Conservation

Rajasthan celebrates a number of key environmental and wildlife-related days to promote awareness and conservation efforts:

1. 14th January – 31st January: Animal Fortnight.
2. 2nd February: Ramsar / World Wetland Day.
3. 21st March: World Forestry Day.
4. 22nd March: World Water Day.
5. 22nd April: World Earth Day.
6. 22nd May: International Biodiversity Day.
7. 5th June: World Environment Day.
8. 1st July – 7th July: Van Mahotsav Forest Week.
9. 16th September: Ozone Day.
10. 1st October – 7th October: Wildlife Week.

Themes for 2021:

• Earth Day: Restore Our Earth.
• Water Day: Valuing Water.
• Biodiversity Day: We Are Part of the Solution.
• World Environment Day: Ecosystem Restoration.

Related Institutions of Forest Conservation in Rajasthan

Rajasthan has key research institutes that play a vital role in forest conservation and ecological studies.

(a) CAZRI (Central Arid Zone Research Institute)

• Established: 1959 in Jodhpur.
• Focus: Research on sustainable development and management of arid and semi-arid ecosystems.

(b) AFRI (Arid Forest Research Institute)

• Established: 1988 in Jodhpur.
• Focus: Forest research focused on arid zones, addressing afforestation, soil conservation, and biodiversity.

Biological Parks of Rajasthan

Rajasthan has developed several biological parks aimed at conservation and education about wildlife. These parks play an important role in protecting local fauna and flora while also serving as research and tourism hubs.

1. Sajjangarh Biological Park (Udaipur)
2. Machia Safari (Jodhpur)
3. Nahargarh Biological Park (Jaipur)
4. Abheda Biological Park (Kota/Nanta – under construction)
5. Marudhara Biological Park (Bikaner/Beechwali – under construction)

Other Notable Parks in Rajasthan

In addition to biological parks, Rajasthan also boasts other parks that contribute to biodiversity conservation:

1. Nature Park (Churu, Sikar)
2. Cactus Garden (Kuldhara, Jaisalmer)
3. Butterfly Valley (Jaipur)
4. Bougainvillea Park (Jaipur, Udaipur)
5. Biodiversity Park (Gamdhar, Udaipur)

Note: The famous Monkey Valley is located at Galta Ji in Jaipur, a site well-known for its large population of rhesus macaques.