India’s Forest Cover: Progress and Policies
The National Forest Policy (NFP) of 1988 aims to ensure that at least one-third of India’s total land area is covered by forests or trees. This goal is particularly crucial for the hill and mountainous regions, where the target is two-thirds. The latest India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023, published by the Forest Survey of India (FSI) in Dehradun, reveals significant progress in achieving this objective. The report indicates that India’s total tree and forest cover has reached 827,356.95 square kilometers, accounting for 25.15% of the country’s geographical area. This marks an increase of 1,445.81 square kilometers compared to the previous assessment in 2021.
This article delves into the current state of forest cover in India, the policies in place for forest management, and the ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing green cover across the nation.
Current State of Forest Cover in India
According to the ISFR 2023, India’s total forest and tree cover has shown a positive trend. The report provides detailed statistics on the geographical area under tree and forest cover across various states and Union Territories. For instance, Andhra Pradesh has a geographical area of 162,922.57 square kilometers, with a forest cover of 30,084.96 square kilometers and a tree cover of 5,340.02 square kilometers. Similarly, Arunachal Pradesh boasts a forest cover of 65,881.57 square kilometers, which is significant given its geographical area of 83,743.22 square kilometers.
The report highlights that the protection and management of forests primarily fall under the jurisdiction of state governments. Each state has its own strategies and measures to enhance forest cover. The data indicates that states like Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra have substantial forest areas, contributing significantly to the national total. The increase in forest cover is a positive sign, reflecting the effectiveness of various conservation efforts and policies implemented at both national and state levels.
Government Policies and Legal Framework
The Indian government has established a robust legal and regulatory framework to manage and conserve forests. Key policies include the National Forest Policy of 1988, the Indian Forest Act of 1927, and the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. These laws aim to regulate the protection, conservation, and management of forests across the country.
In addition to these policies, the government has introduced several initiatives to promote afforestation and ecological restoration. Programs like the National Mission for a Green India (GIM) and the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) focus on increasing green cover and restoring degraded forest areas. These initiatives are crucial for maintaining biodiversity, combating climate change, and ensuring sustainable development.
The government also emphasizes community involvement in forest management. By engaging local populations, the government aims to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility towards forest conservation. This approach not only helps in preserving forests but also supports the livelihoods of communities dependent on forest resources.
Initiatives for Enhancing Green Cover
To further enhance India’s green cover, the government has launched various schemes aimed at afforestation and habitat restoration. One notable initiative is the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, launched by the Prime Minister on June 5, 2024. This campaign encourages citizens to participate in tree plantation activities across the country.
Other initiatives include the Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats and the Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI). These programs focus on ecological restoration, habitat improvement, and soil and water conservation. They aim to create a sustainable environment that benefits both nature and local communities.
The government’s commitment to increasing forest cover is evident in its ongoing efforts to implement these initiatives. By promoting afforestation and conservation, India aims to achieve its national goal of maintaining a healthy and sustainable forest ecosystem.
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