Reading Comprehension — quick quiz

Read the passage carefully and answer the question that follows: The forests of Himachal Pradesh are not merely a source of timber and firewood; they are the lifeline of the state's ecology. These verdant expanses regulate the climate, prevent soil erosion, and provide habitat to diverse flora and fauna. The state government has launched several afforestation programs to restore degraded forest areas. However, the challenge lies in balancing developmental needs with environmental conservation. What is the primary role of forests in Himachal Pradesh according to the passage?