WBCS.LIVE practice question

The minimum forest cover necessary to maintain ecological balance is

Solve this multiple-choice question and check the correct answer with its explanation below.

Answer options

  1. 50% of the total land area
  2. 40% of the total land area
  3. 33% of the total land area
  4. 25% of the total land area

Correct answer and explanation

Correct answer: 33% of the total land area

Explanation: The correct answer is C. 33% of the total land area. According to the National Forest Policy of 1988, India should maintain at least 33% forest cover to ensure ecological balance and environmental stability. This target is especially important for hilly and mountainous regions, where the recommended cover is even higher at 66%. Forests help in preventing soil erosion, regulating the water cycle, and preserving biodiversity. Despite this goal, India's actual forest cover remains below the desired level in several states. Continuous efforts like afforestation and social forestry are being encouraged to bridge this gap.