Question

A social forest tree is
A) Teak
B) Sandalwood
C) Subabul
D) Rosewood

Answer 1

Hint:-The National Commission on Agriculture, under the Indian government in the year 1976, introduced the concept of social forestry. Their aim was to conserve and protect the forest by planting trees in barren lands and lands where trees have been cut down. Along with planting trees to conserve the environment, the commission also wanted to ensure rural and social development of the area.

Complete Answer:-
One of the main objectives of the commission was to maximize the utilization of all resources already available to the farmer and help increase their standard of living. Teak trees are widely distributed in south Asian countries and are also found in India. The tree is mainly used to create furniture. The high oil content found in this tree makes it more durable, hence it is also used to make boats. The use of teak is not very cost-effective; hence many alternatives are found in the market.
Sandalwood is a very expensive wood and the oil extracted from it is of commercial importance. At one point, India was the largest producer of this oil. However, excessive use of these resources led to a decline in the production of wood.
Subabul can be used for its fodder or to increase biomass production. In India, it is grown for both these purposes. Its pulp is used for paper making. Along with that, the tree also helps in nitrogen fixation. The National Commission on Agriculture encourages farmers to grow this tree because of its varied uses.
Rosewood, found in the Indian subcontinent, is used as fuelwood and timbre. The tree does produce expensive timbre and the timbre from certain species of this tree are sold internationally.
Thus, the right option is C.

Note:- While Subabul has various uses, the tree can grow excessively in certain areas taking over all other plantations. The tree cannot withstand heavy rainfall and wind and is prone to certain pest attacks. Although it is used for fodder, due to the presence of a toxic amino acid called mimosine, it is not preferable for certain animals. Despite these shortcomings, the planting of Subabul is widely promoted.