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Palm Tree Significance in Reducing Casualties by Lightning Strikes
Context: Odisha, a state heavily affected by lightning strikes during pre-monsoon and monsoon periods, has restricted the felling of existing palm trees and planning to plant around 1.9 million new ones to reduce lightning-related casualties.
More on news:
- Department plans to plant around 1.9 million palm trees across the state in 2024-25, with Rs 7 crore allocated for this purpose.
- Four palm trees will be planted near the boundary of each forest block.
- Permission must be obtained from the forest department to cut palm trees on private land.
Palms: Distribution and Abundance:
- Palms belong to the Arecaceae (or Palmae) family, the only family in the order Arecales.
- Characteristics: Tall, unbranched trunks with crowns of large, fan-shaped, or feather-like leaves.
- Habitats: Rainforests, savannas, deserts, coastal regions.
- Adaptability: Thrives in diverse environmental conditions.
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- Bounded by latitudes 44° N and 44° S, with greatest abundance between 30° N and 30° S.
- Thrive in areas with mean annual temperatures of 15-21 °C and 500+ mm annual rainfall.
- Major centers: America and Asia (India to Japan, south to Australia, Pacific and Indian Ocean islands).
- Ecological Role: Provides vital habitat, food, and shelter.
- Stabilizes soil and prevents erosion. Supports biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.
- Economic Importance: Valuable commodities: fruits, leaves, and wood.
- Palm oil drives global trade in food, cosmetics, and biofuels.
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- Cultural heritage: used in making artisanal products showcase Palm-growing community craftsmanship.
- Provide Coastal Protection by Stabilising sand dunes and protects against erosion.
- Ornamental value enhances parks and streetscapes.
- Challenges and Threats:
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- Habitat loss due to deforestation and climate change.
- Unsustainable practices in palm oil production leading to environmental degradation.
Facts About Palm Tree:
- Not all plants called palms are true palms, Including shrubs, trees, and vines (lianas).
- Palms feature prominently in religious texts like the Bible and Quran, symbolising peace and plenty.
- Staple Foods: include coconuts, dates, betel nuts, acai fruit, and palm oil.
- Palm Wine: Known as “kallu,” a traditional alcoholic drink in Asia and Africa.