Though India now has a large base in science and technology, which is fast expanding, it is still a long way from realising its potential of becoming a world leader in science. Name some important factors, which in your view have hindered the advancement of science in India.

Read the paragraph given below. Based on the paragraph and your acquired knowledge and understanding, answer the question. ''A traditional strategy for the protection of biodiversity has been in practice in India and some other Asian countries dimensions protected by tribal communities due to religious sanctity accorded to them. The sacred forests represent islands of pristine forests and have been free from all disturbances, though these are frequently surrounded by highly degraded landscape. In India, sacred forests are located in several parts e.g. Karnataka, Maharashtra, Kerala, Meghalaya etc and are serving as refugia for number of rare, endangered and endemic taxa.'' a. In India which are the major locations of sacred forests? b. By considering a sacred forest in your local area, list any two ecological significances of sacred forests. c. Due to the religious sanctity, sacred forests are protected to a certain extent. Do you agree? Justify your opinion.