UPSC Prelims 2026 · GS Paper 1 · Question 40
Which one of the following is the first Plan Vivo certified Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) project in India ?
Correct answer: Option C
Environment
Options
- (a) Uttarakhand REDD+ project
- (b) ICFRE-ICIMOD Transboundary REDD+ project in North-Eastern Himalayas
- (c) Khasi Hills Community REDD+ project
- (d) Sikkim Mamley Kamrang Community REDD+ project
Detailed solution
Answer
Option (C) — Khasi Hills Community REDD+ project
Explanation
- REDD+ is a framework created by the UNFCCC to guide activities in the forest sector that reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation.
- The Khasi Hills Community REDD+ Project is located in the state of Meghalaya and engages local indigenous communities in forest conservation and restoration efforts.
- It holds the distinction of being India's first REDD+ project to be certified under the Plan Vivo Standard, which is a framework specifically designed for community based payments for ecosystem services.
Statement Analysis
- Option A. Uttarakhand REDD+ project: Incorrect. It is not recognized as the first Plan Vivo certified REDD+ project in India.
- Option B. ICFRE and ICIMOD Transboundary REDD+ project in North Eastern Himalayas: Incorrect. Though collaborative efforts exist in the Himalayas, this is not the first Plan Vivo certified REDD+ project.
- Option C. Khasi Hills Community REDD+ project: Correct. This initiative in Meghalaya was the first community led REDD+ project in India to achieve Plan Vivo certification.
- Option D. Sikkim Mamley Kamrang Community REDD+ project: Incorrect. This is not the first Plan Vivo certified REDD+ project in India.