Rosewood and Mahogany Trees in India

Possible Answer:

Rosewood and mahogany trees are known for their high-quality timber and are found in a few regions of India. If you are travelling in India and come across a region with prevalence of rosewood and mahogany trees, you are most likely in Meghalaya state.

Location and Features of Meghalaya:

Meghalaya is a state in northeastern India, bordered by Assam to the north and Bangladesh to the south. The name Meghalaya means "the abode of clouds" in Sanskrit, and the state is known for its scenic beauty, waterfalls, hills, and forests. The capital of Meghalaya is Shillong, which is a popular tourist destination.

Forests and Wildlife in Meghalaya:

Meghalaya has a rich biodiversity and is home to several forests and wildlife sanctuaries. The state has a total forest cover of 9,496 square kilometers, which is about 76.3% of its geographical area. The forests in Meghalaya are classified into tropical, subtropical, and temperate zones, and are known for their unique flora and fauna.

Rosewood and Mahogany Trees in Meghalaya:

Rosewood and mahogany trees are found in the subtropical and tropical forests of Meghalaya. The rosewood tree is known as "shegun" in the local Khasi language, and its scientific name is Dalbergia sissoo. The mahogany tree is known as "sohiong" in Khasi, and its scientific name is Swietenia macrophylla.

Uses and Conservation of Rosewood and Mahogany Trees:

Rosewood and mahogany trees are prized for their timber, which is used for furniture, flooring, musical instruments, and decorative items. However, due to overexploitation and illegal logging, these trees are endangered and protected under the Indian Forest Act. Meghalaya has taken several measures to conserve its forests and wildlife, such as setting up community-managed forests, promoting eco-tourism, and enforcing strict laws against deforestation and poaching.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, if you come across a region with prevalence of rosewood and mahogany trees while travelling in India, you are most likely in Meghalaya state. Meghalaya is a beautiful and biodiverse state, known for its forests, hills, and waterfalls. The state has taken steps to conserve its forests and wildlife, including the endangered rosewood and mahogany trees.

Option (c) is the correct answer. Rosewood and mahogany trees are found in Tropical Evergreen and Semi Evergreen Forests. In the given options, these forests are found only in Meghalaya. Uttarakhand mainly has montane forests, while Gujarat and Telangana have deciduous forests.