India's Forest Cover

Forests play an essential role in maintaining ecological balance, mitigating climate change, and supporting biodiversity. The protection, conservation, and expansion of forest resources are crucial to the nation’s environmental sustainability. In a recent development, the Forest Survey of India (FSI), an organization under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), released the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023. This report provides an in-depth analysis of the country’s forest cover and outlines the progress made in afforestation, conservation, and protection over the years.

As per the ISFR 2023, India’s total forest cover stands at 7,15,342.61 square kilometers, which constitutes 21.76% of the country’s geographical area. The total forest cover has shown a steady increase over the past four years, rising from 7,12,249 square kilometers in ISFR 2019 to 7,15,342.61 square kilometers in ISFR 2023. This is an achievement considering the rapidly increasing demand for land and resources. The biennial assessments by the FSI are conducted through a meticulous process of wall-to-wall mapping using remote sensing technology, supported by intensive ground verification and field data gathered through the National Forest Inventory. The gradual increase in forest cover over the past four years is a testament to the concerted efforts of both the central and state governments to preserve and restore forest ecosystems.

The role of state governments and union territories in forest protection, conservation, and management cannot be understated. While the responsibility largely falls on them, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) plays a crucial role in providing technical and financial support. This support is directed towards the management of forest resources, ecological restoration, afforestation, habitat improvement, soil and water conservation, and forest fire prevention. In the past few years, several schemes have been launched to facilitate afforestation efforts and the restoration of degraded forest areas. Notable among these are:

National Mission for a Green India (GIM):
This mission supports afforestation activities and strengthens the resilience of ecosystems. Development of Wildlife Habitats (DWH):
Focuses on habitat restoration and wildlife protection.
Forest Fire Prevention and Management Schemes (FPM):
Aimed at reducing forest fire risks and enhancing forest health.
Nagar Van Yojana (NVY):
Promotes the creation of urban forests for enhancing green spaces in cities.

In addition to these initiatives, the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) has been instrumental in supporting afforestation projects. Over the last five years, substantial financial allocations have been made to these schemes:

Rs 624.71 crore under GIM
Rs 452.04 crore under DWH
Rs 180.56 crore under FPM
Rs 308.87 crore under NVY

Furthermore, Rs 38,502.21 crore has been approved under CAMPA for various state projects aimed at enhancing forest cover. The collective efforts through these funds have significantly contributed to India’s increasing forest cover by 3,093.61 square kilometers from ISFR 2019 to ISFR 2023.

While India’s overall forest cover has seen an upward trend, some states have experienced a decline in forest area. According to ISFR 2023, the top five states that have witnessed the most significant declines in forest cover over the past four years are:

1. Arunachal Pradesh:
From 66,688 square kilometers in ISFR 2019 to 65,881.57 square kilometers in ISFR 2023.
2. Madhya Pradesh:
From 77,482 square kilometers in ISFR 2019 to 77,073.44 square kilometers in ISFR 2023.
3. Nagaland:
From 12,486 square kilometers in ISFR 2019 to 12,222.47 square kilometers in ISFR 2023.
4. Manipur:
From 16,847 square kilometers in ISFR 2019 to 16,585.46 square kilometers in ISFR 2023.
5. Meghalaya:
From 17,119 square kilometers in ISFR 2019 to 16,966.84 square kilometers in ISFR 2023.

The reasons for this decline can be attributed to a variety of factors, including urbanization, agricultural expansion, and infrastructure development. However, it’s crucial for state governments to focus on addressing these challenges and intensifying their forest protection and restoration activities.

To ensure that India’s forest cover continues to grow, it is imperative that we strengthen conservation and protection measures across the country. This will require enhanced coordination between the central and state governments, increased funding for afforestation programs, and community involvement in forest management. The government must also invest in innovative technologies for forest monitoring, increase awareness about the importance of forests, and tackle illegal logging and deforestation. Protecting our forests is not just about planting trees but about safeguarding entire ecosystems that support a wide array of flora and fauna.

Keeping in view the available data, India’s forest cover ostensibly is a reflection of the nation’s commitment to environmental sustainability. While there are challenges ahead, the steady growth in forest cover over the last few years demonstrates the success of coordinated efforts in afforestation, conservation, and protection. With continued dedication, India can achieve even greater success in the future, ensuring that its forests remain a vital resource for generations to come. As we move forward, it is essential to remember that forest conservation is not just the responsibility of governments but of every individual. Small changes in how we interact with the environment, coupled with strong policy initiatives, will pave the way for a greener, more sustainable India.

(Based on the information tabled in the upper house on 3rdt April 2025 by the government in response to my question No.3724 on the subject.)

Parimal Nathwani Rajya Sabha Member