A particular State in India has the following characteristics:<br/>1. It is located on the same latitude which passes through northern Rajasthan.<br/>2. It has over 80% of its area under forest cover.<br/>3. Over 12% of forest cover constitutes Protected Area Network in this State.<br/><br/>Which one among the following States has all the above characteristics?

• (a) Arunachal Pradesh: Northern Rajasthan lies roughly around 27°N–29°N; Arunachal Pradesh also spans these latitudes. It has well over 80% forest cover, and its Protected Area Network exceeds 12% of the State’s geographical area. Verdict: Correct.
• (b) Assam: Although Assam lies partly in similar latitudes, its forest cover is far below 80%. Verdict: Incorrect.
• (c) Himachal Pradesh: It lies in comparable latitudes, but forest cover is not over 80% of total area. Verdict: Incorrect.
• (d) Uttarakhand: It also lies near northern Rajasthan’s latitude band, but forest cover is below 80%. Verdict: Incorrect.

Answer: (a) Arunachal Pradesh.