The Khasi pine forests of Shillong: a century-old monoculture under scrutiny

The Khasi pine forests that ring Shillong were largely planted over the past century, replacing broadleaf forest for timber and fuel.

Ecologists now say the monoculture is catching up with the hills: pines drink more water, acidify the soil, and support far fewer species than the forests they replaced.

A restoration programme is testing mixed planting on small plots — with pine farmers watching closely.