Paper short abstract:

This paper evaluates sacred groves, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development goals in India, including their current state, challenges, and governmental interventions to increase their contribution.

Paper long abstract:

Sacred groves, safeguarded by religious and cultural practices, are essential for the protection of biodiversity and the stability of ecosystems in India. India's sacred groves, vital to the country's cultural heritage, are crucial for biodiversity preservation and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Given the global emphasis on sustainable development, sacred groves are acknowledged as natural solutions aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). This paper analyses the interplay between Sacred groves, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development objectives in India, assessing their present status, associated challenges, and requisite policy measures to enhance their role in sustainable development. The paper demonstrate that sacred woods are widespread across India, especially in regions with significant biodiversity. They act as refuges for endangered species, protect keystone species, and maintain ecological integrity. Sacred groves face issues including urbanization, deforestation, erosion of cultural values, climate change, inadequate legislative support, and resource overexploitation. The paper advocates for the legal recognition and protection of sacred groves, community empowerment, awareness campaigns, integration with climate and development initiatives, comprehensive mapping, and economic incentives.