Deforestation refers to the large-scale removal of forests for agriculture, industries, urban development, mining, roads and other human activities. Forests are essential for maintaining ecological balance, conserving biodiversity, regulating climate and protecting soil and water resources. Their destruction produces several serious environmental, economic and social consequences. One major consequence of deforestation is the loss of biodiversity. Forests provide habitat, food and breeding grounds for a large variety of plants, animals and microorganisms. When forests are cleared, many species lose their natural habitats and may become endangered or extinct. For example, the destruction of tropical rainforests in the Amazon has threatened numerous species of birds, mammals, insects and plants. In India, deforestation and