Why is it in the news?
- The state government of Rajasthan plans to classify orans (sacred groves), found primarily in western Rajasthan, as deemed forests.
About Orans · Orans are traditional sacred groves that serve as community-conserved areas in Rajasthan, India. · Orans are known for their rich biodiversity and typically include a water body. · Orans hold significant cultural, religious, social, and ecological importance for the communities. · They are often associated with local deities and are protected from tree cutting and felling due to spiritual and religious connections. · Religious ceremonies, festivals, and social events take place within orans, highlighting their cultural significance. · Orans serve as crucial habitats for species like the Great Indian Bustard. · They also contribute to green energy initiatives, with windmills and solar photovoltaic systems present in the area. · Orans are utilized for livestock grazing and serve as communal spaces for gatherings and social events. · Villagers derive livelihoods from orans through the collection of gum, timber, forest produce, and wild vegetables.
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Challenges and Concerns
- Orans face threats due to their current categorization as wastelands, which makes them vulnerable to exploitation.
- Large portions of orans have been allocated for solar plants, leading to concerns about biodiversity loss and livelihood impacts.
- The recent declaration of orans as deemed forests raises concerns about access to resources and movement restrictions, potentially impacting local communities’ traditional way of life.