Classical Societies' Depend on Non- Timber Forest Matters

Classical Societies' Depend on Non-Timber Forest Matters

Overview

Discover the captivating world of India's rich forest resources and their profound connection to human civilization in "Classical Societies' Depend on Non-Timber Forest Matters." This meticulously researched book explores the intricate relationship between India's forests and its people, shedding light on their symbiotic existence, economic significance, and the challenges they face today.

In the preface of "Classical Societies' Depend on Non-Timber Forest Matters," the author paints a vivid picture of India's unique forest landscape. The following key points provide a glimpse into the fascinating insights offered:

• India's forests have been home to diverse flora and fauna for millions of years.
• Forests have mutually benefited humans by providing essential resources and contributing significantly to the country's economy.

• Despite occupying only 2% of the world's land area, India supports 9% of the global human population and 3% of the cattle population.
• India's forest cover, at around 1% of the world's total, falls far short of the required 33% recommended by the National Forest Policy (4% in 1988).
• Only 24.35% of India's total land area is covered by forests, totaling 97 million hectares.

• 93% of India's forest cover consists of dense woods with crown density exceeding 70%.
• However, 3% of forest cover has suffered severe degradation, with millions of hectares nearly losing all tree cover.
• State-by-state breakdown of forest area classification is provided in the book's Appendix I.

• States like Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Mizoram, and Nagaland boast forest covers of 90.0%, 69.4%, and 63.7% respectively.
• Arunachal Pradesh has the highest land covered by forests (40.9%) among all states.

• India's forest cover per person is significantly lower than the global average, highlighting the need for conservation and sustainable management.
• Despite vast cultivable waste and fallow land, the lack of scientific forest management and increasing demand have led to degraded forest covers.
• India's 9,000,000 villages include 3,000 categorized as forest-dwelling.

In this compelling book, delve into the lives of India's tribal communities, who consider themselves the guardians of their forest surroundings. The author provides a deeper understanding of their unique culture and challenges:

• The term "tribe" traces back to Latin, embodying secretive and fascinating groups.
• Various names like "Janavasi," "Adivasi," "Janyajati," and "Adimjati" have been used to refer to these people throughout history.

• India's indigenous tribes have a unique culture marked by an old-world charm and a close connection with nature.
• They inhabit breathtaking landscapes exuding peace and tranquility.

• Approximately 8.99% of India's population belongs to tribal minorities.
• Predominantly found in states like Odisha, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, and Rajasthan.
• These states account for the majority of India's tribal population.

• Despite a growing tribal population from 9.33 million to 39.97 million between 1961 and 2011, forest cover decreased from 79.70% to 24.35%.