Interplay Between Myths, Beliefs and Environment Conservation of Sacred Groves

The present study was conducted in two sacred groves of Seraj Forest Division, Himachal Pradesh, India, namely Laxmi Narayan Sacred Grove and Pundrik Rishi Lake Sacred Grove. The study's key objective is to highlight the significance of myths and belief systems in environment protection and conservation. Data was collected directly from villagers and various stakeholders to understand myths and beliefs associated with sacred groves. MODIS satellite data has been utilised in Remote sensing and GIS platforms to detect changes in the grove area from 2014 to 2024. Estimating total organic carbon was done using the non-destructive method in 10 m X 10 m sample plots, and carbon stored by Cedrus deodara, the main species of the area, was studied. The study reveals that many myths and beliefs include complete restriction of people's entry into the grove, partial entry allowing only higher caste people, all-time no entry for women, etc. Change detection by RS GIS showed no change in land use in these groves despite increasing habitation in adjoining areas. Carbon Sequestration in Laxmi Narayan sacred grove is about 22.44 tons/100 m2; in Pundrik Rishi grove, it is about 46.32 tons/100 m2.