Tropical moist forests are the common forest type found in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, parts of North-Eastern states, and a narrow strip of the Western slope of the Western Ghats. These forests are characterized by their high rainfall and evergreen vegetation.

Tropical Moist Forests:
- Tropical moist forests, also known as tropical evergreen forests or rainforests, are found in areas with high humidity and rainfall throughout the year.
- These forests are typically located near the equator and have a warm and humid climate.
- They are characterized by dense vegetation, tall trees, and a multi-layered canopy that allows minimum sunlight to reach the forest floor.
- The trees in tropical moist forests are usually evergreen, with broad leaves to maximize photosynthesis in low light conditions.
- These forests have a high biodiversity and are home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including unique and endangered species.
- The soils in tropical moist forests are usually nutrient-rich, as the constant rainfall helps in the decomposition of organic matter.
- They play a crucial role in maintaining the water cycle and regulating climate by absorbing and storing large amounts of carbon dioxide.

Distribution:
- Andaman and Nicobar Islands: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are located in the Bay of Bengal and have a tropical rainforest climate. They are home to diverse tropical moist forests with a rich variety of flora and fauna.
- North-Eastern states: The North-Eastern states of India, such as Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh, also have a significant presence of tropical moist forests due to their high rainfall and hilly terrain.
- Western Ghats: A narrow strip along the Western slope of the Western Ghats also has tropical moist forests. The Western Ghats are a mountain range along the western coast of India and are known for their high biodiversity.

Importance:
- Tropical moist forests are vital for maintaining ecological balance and providing various ecosystem services.
- They act as carbon sinks, absorbing and storing large amounts of carbon dioxide, thus helping in mitigating climate change.
- These forests also support local communities by providing timber, non-timber forest products, and livelihood opportunities.
- They are home to numerous endemic and endangered species, making them important for conservation efforts.
- The rich biodiversity of tropical moist forests also makes them attractive for eco-tourism, contributing to the local economy.

In conclusion, tropical moist forests are the common forest type found in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, parts of North-Eastern states, and a narrow strip of the Western slope of the Western Ghats. These forests are characterized by their high rainfall, evergreen vegetation, and high biodiversity. They play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, supporting local communities, and conserving endangered species.