Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Sacred groves are forest fragments of varying sizes, which are communally protected and usually have a significant religious connotation for the protecting community.
In these areas, all the trees and wildlife are venerated and given total protection.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
In India, sacred groves are found in several regions as part of traditional in-situ conservation efforts:
1. Khasi and Jaintia Hills in Meghalaya: These are among the most famous sacred groves in India, acting as the last refuges for a large number of rare and threatened plants.
2. Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan: Protected regions in the arid landscape.
3. Western Ghat regions of Karnataka and Maharashtra: Rich biodiversity spots protected by local traditions.
4. Sarguja, Chanda and Bastar areas of Chhattisgarh: These regions (formerly part of Madhya Pradesh) also house significant sacred groves.
Looking at the options:
- Bastar, Chanda, and Sarguja are regions located in Chhattisgarh.
- Jaintia hills are located in Meghalaya.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The sacred groves of the Jaintia hills are located in the state of Meghalaya.