What is deforestation? List the causes of deforestation.
Deforestation: According to an estimate, almost 40% of forests have been lost in the tropics and 1% of forests in the temperate region. In India, at the beginning of the twentieth century, forests covered about 30% of land whereas, by the end of the century, it reduced to 19.4%. The National Forest Policy (1988) has recommended 33% forest cover for plains and 67% for hills. Causes of Deforestation: Forests are converted into agricultural land to feed the growing human population. Forests are cleared for making homes and establishing industries. Trees are felled for timber, firewood, etc. Jhum cultivation in the north¬eastern states has contributed to deforestation
