They are a type of land classification found in the Indian state of Maharashtra, especially in Vidarbha region.
Zudpi is a local Marathi term, and these lands are essentially wastelands with scattered tree cover, often not classified under the Indian Forest Act, 1927 as reserve or protected forests. These areas are technically classified as forest land, but in many cases, they are not densely forested and are not under the direct management of the Forest Department.
They can be reforested and used for carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation or community forestry. Serve as buffer zones between agricultural and core forest areas. They are used by tribal and marginalized communities for livelihood.
Issues and Challenges:
1.Unclear jurisdiction
2.Encroachments
3.Loss of Forest Cover
4.Political Pressures
5.Underutilized for Conservation
