ROOPAK GOSWAMI
Shillong, Jan 20: Nestled in Meghalaya’s West Khasi Hills, three sacred groves—Law Lyngdoh Mawnai, Law Lyngdoh Nonglait, and Law Lyngdoh Mawlong—stand as ecological treasures and cultural landmarks. These groves, known locally as “Law Kyntang,” serve as sanctuaries for deities and ancestral spirits, blending spiritual reverence with biodiversity conservation.
Law Lyngdoh Mawlong sacred grove in West Khasi Hills has the highest species richness and diversity, a study found.
The study conducted by researchers from Sam Higginbottom University explored the ecological attributes of these groves, revealing their significance in preserving rare flora and fostering environmental balance. Sampling 120 quadrats across the three sites, the study identified diverse plant communities, with species richness varying from 15 to 23 for trees and 15 to 19 for shrubs.
The study titled “Ecological Attributes of Sacred Groves in West Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, India” was conducted by Kerry Willson Marbaniang, Dippu Narzary, and Hemant Kumar from the College of Forestry, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology, and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.
The sacred groves exhibited distinct ecological dynamics. For instance, Law Lyngdoh Mawlong showcased the highest species richness and diversity, attributed to its expansive 200-hectare area and minimal human disturbance. Dominant tree species such as Castanopsis tribuloides, Ilex venulosa, and Myrica esculenta were consistently observed, alongside shrub species like Inula cappa and Smilax ovalifolia. The rare and exquisite orchid commonly called Creeping Lady’s tresses or Dwarf Rattlesnake (Goodyera sp.), has been documented in the sacred grove. This discovery highlights the region’s rich botanical diversity and the ecological significance of preserving such habitats.
There are 22 tree species belonging to 13 families and 19 shrub species from 13 families in Law Lyngdoh Mawlong Sacred Grove.
Ecological indices further highlighted the groves’ balanced ecosystems. Shannon’s diversity index ranged from 2.10 to 2.71 for trees and 2.50 to 2.72 for shrubs, underscoring the groves’ ecological health. The concern was that invasive species like Lantana camara pose significant threats, emphasizing the need for targeted conservation strategies.
Comparative analysis with other studies on sacred groves in Meghalaya underscores both similarities and distinctions. For example, the sacred groves in the Jaintia Hills have similar levels of species. “The species richness and diversity compared with those in the West Khasi Hills, emphasizing their ecological importance and conservation value,” the study said.
Sacred groves in Meghalaya are historically preserved through community-driven practices and taboos that prohibit logging and resource extraction. These groves not only act as biodiversity hotspots but also maintain soil integrity, regulate microclimates, and support hydrological cycles.
“Overall the sacred groves in the West Khasi Hills District are characterized by a high level of biodiversity and ecological importance, providing habitat for numerous endemic and rare plant species. These findings underscore the importance of reserving these groves, not only for their cultural and spiritual significance but also for their role in maintaining ecological balance and diversity” the study said.
Despite their resilience, the groves face threats from modernization and the erosion of traditional beliefs, particularly due to religious transitions in the region. This shift underscores the urgency of integrating cultural preservation with environmental conservation.
The study advocates for tailored conservation measures, combining community engagement with scientific management. Suggested interventions include restoring degraded areas, controlling invasive species, and fostering awareness of the groves’ ecological and cultural significance.
