The correct answer is: a) Biodiversity Conservation.
Kerala’s sacred groves, known as ‘Kavus’, are important for biodiversity conservation. They are home to a variety of plant and animal species, many of which are rare or endangered. The groves are also important for the local people, who use them for religious rituals and for collecting firewood and other forest products.
Option b) is incorrect because sacred groves are not primarily used for religious rituals. While they are sometimes used for this purpose, their primary importance is for biodiversity conservation.
Option c) is incorrect because sacred groves are not primarily used for timber production. While they may produce some timber, this is not their primary purpose.
Option d) is incorrect because sacred groves are not primarily used for ecotourism. While they may be visited by tourists, this is not their primary purpose.