The ‘Banni Grassland’ is sometimes seen in the news. Which of the following statements regarding it is/are correct?
1. It is situated along the western flank of Maharashtra-Goa border.
2. It is inhabited by the Maldhari tribes whose primary occupation is cattle rearing.
Select the correct answer using the code given below
Both 1 and 2
Incorrect AnswerNeither 1 nor 2
Incorrect AnswerExplanation:
Statement 1 is Incorrect. Banni Grasslands Reserve or Banni grasslands form a belt of Arid grassland ecosystem on the outer southern edge of the desert of the marshy salt flats of Rann of Kutch in Kutch District, Gujarat State,India. They are known for rich wildlife and biodiversity and are legally protected as a protected or reserve forest in India.
Statement 2 is correct. Maldharis are nomadic descendants of people who came from Pakistan, Rajasthan and other parts of Gujarat, and finally settled in the Banni grasslands. Their major communities include Sindhi Sunni Muslims and Vadhas. The word "Maldhari" means maal (animal stock) and dhari (owner/keeper). Hence, the one who owns animals, breeds them and/or herds them is called Maldhari. The Maldharis of Gir, Alech and Barda have included among the Scheduled Tribes since 1956, although these castes are not classified as Scheduled Tribes outside the forest areas.
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By: Abhishek Sharma