Sacred Groves

Why in News
•  The Kerala State Biodiversity Board has launched a pilot restoration programme covering five sacred groves across Kerala in collaboration with local Biodiversity Management Committees.
Background 
•  Sacred groves, locally known as “kavus,” are patches of forest traditionally protected due to religious and cultural beliefs. 
•  These groves represent an ancient community-led conservation model that predates modern environmental governance. 
•  India has the highest number of sacred groves globally, with Kerala hosting over 300 ecologically significant groves.

Key Features of the New Initiative
•  Five sacred groves have been selected from Ezhikkara in Ernakulam, Pattanchery in Palakkad, Villiappally in Kozhikode, Iritty in Kannur, and Uduma in Kasaragod for the initial phase of the project.
•  Activities include biodiversity assessment, identification of endangered and invasive species, and ecological restoration. 
•  “Kavunurseries” will be established to propagate native plant species specific to sacred groves. 
•  Measures such as bio-fencing, removal of invasive species and plastic waste, and pond rejuvenation are being implemented. 
•  The project is jointly funded by the Biodiversity Board and local self-government institutions.
Ecological & Cultural Significance
•  Sacred groves act as biodiversity hotspots preserving rare, endemic, and medicinal plant species. 
•  They play a crucial role in conserving soil, maintaining water cycles, and supporting micro-climatic stability. 
•  These groves serve as habitats for diverse fauna, including birds, reptiles, and small mammals. 
•  They embody the cultural link between communities and nature through traditions like serpent worship and ritual practices. 
•  Sacred groves function as “mini-forests,” delivering ecosystem services comparable to larger forests.
Key Issues 
•  Rapid urbanisation and land-use changes are leading to shrinkage and degradation of sacred groves. 
•  Changing socio-cultural practices are weakening traditional conservation ethics associated with these ecosystems. 
•  Invasive species and pollution are further threatening their ecological integrity. 
•  Weak institutional coordination and limited awareness hinder effective conservation at scale. 
Role of State Biodiversity Boards
•  State Biodiversity Boards are constituted under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 to regulate use of biological resources and advise state governments. 
•  They facilitate conservation through documentation, restoration programmes, and promoting sustainable use of biodiversity. 
•  They support local Biodiversity Management Committees in implementing grassroots conservation efforts. 
•  They play a key role in ensuring Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) and protecting indigenous knowledge systems.