India’s Green Cover Expands: ISFR 2023 Highlights Growth and Conservation Efforts

Dehradun: Union Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, released the India State of Forest Report 2023 (ISFR 2023) at the Forest Research Institute in Dehradun today. The report, prepared biennially by the Forest Survey of India (FSI) since 1987, provides a comprehensive analysis of the country’s forest and tree resources. This 18th edition of the report is based on satellite data and extensive field surveys, offering valuable insights into India’s green cover and its management.

According to ISFR 2023, the total forest and tree cover in the country is now 8,27,357 square kilometers, accounting for 25.17 percent of India’s geographical area. Of this, forest cover constitutes 7,15,343 square kilometers, while tree cover accounts for 1,12,014 square kilometers. The report marks a significant increase of 1,445 square kilometers in total green cover since the 2021 assessment, with forest cover growing by 156 square kilometers and tree cover by 1,289 square kilometers.

States such as Chhattisgarh (684 square kilometers), Uttar Pradesh (559 square kilometers), Odisha (559 square kilometers), and Rajasthan (394 square kilometers) have contributed significantly to this growth. Madhya Pradesh continues to lead with the largest forest and tree cover at 85,724 square kilometers, followed by Arunachal Pradesh at 67,083 square kilometers and Maharashtra at 65,383 square kilometers. Lakshadweep, Mizoram, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands rank highest in terms of forest cover as a percentage of their geographical area, with Lakshadweep at 91.33 percent, Mizoram at 85.34 percent, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands at 81.62 percent, reflecting their robust natural ecosystems.

The report also highlights an increase in bamboo resources, with the bamboo-bearing area expanding by 5,227 square kilometers since 2021. Additionally, the country’s total carbon stock in forests has risen to 7,285.5 million tonnes, representing an increase of 81.5 million tonnes. This growth brings India closer to its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) goal of creating an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes by 2030.

Mangrove cover, a crucial element of coastal ecosystems, stands at 4,992 square kilometers, underscoring efforts to preserve biodiversity in vulnerable regions. The report also records advancements in forest fire management, with the use of advanced technology enabling near real-time fire alerts to safeguard green cover.

Speaking at the event, Shri Bhupender Yadav lauded the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders in achieving these milestones. He emphasized the importance of sustainable forest management for meeting India’s climate goals and preserving biodiversity. Highlighting the role of modern technology, he noted the Forest Survey of India’s innovative approach in monitoring forest health and addressing environmental challenges.

The ISFR 2023 serves as a critical tool for policymakers, environmentalists, and researchers, offering a detailed picture of the state of India’s forests. The findings reaffirm India’s commitment to conservation and sustainable development, providing a roadmap for future efforts in forest management and climate action.