Dehradun: Odisha has emerged as one of the top contributors to India’s growing green cover, as highlighted in the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023, released today by Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, at the Forest Research Institute, Dehradun. Published biennially by the Forest Survey of India (FSI) since 1987, the report provides a detailed assessment of the nation’s forest and tree resources.
Odisha recorded a commendable growth of 559 sq km in combined forest and tree cover, sharing the second spot with Uttar Pradesh, while Chhattisgarh led with an increase of 684 sq km. Rajasthan followed closely with a 394 sq km rise. Odisha also ranked third in forest cover growth with an increase of 152 sq km, trailing Mizoram (242 sq km) and Gujarat (180 sq km). This reflects the state’s dedicated efforts toward afforestation and sustainable forest management.
Nationally, the total forest and tree cover has expanded to 8,27,357 sq km, representing 25.17% of India’s geographical area. Of this, 7,15,343 sq km (21.76%) is forest cover, while 1,12,014 sq km (3.41%) is tree cover. Compared to 2021, the total green cover increased by 1,445 sq km, with Odisha playing a pivotal role in this achievement alongside other leading states.
Madhya Pradesh continues to hold the distinction of having the largest forest and tree cover in India, with 85,724 sq km, followed by Arunachal Pradesh (67,083 sq km) and Maharashtra (65,383 sq km). In terms of forest cover alone, Madhya Pradesh tops the list with 77,073 sq km, with Arunachal Pradesh (65,882 sq km) and Chhattisgarh (55,812 sq km) securing the next two positions.
Odisha’s performance is particularly notable in the context of mangrove ecosystems, which are vital for coastal resilience and biodiversity. The state contributes significantly to the country’s total mangrove cover of 4,992 sq km, supporting both environmental conservation and climate adaptation.
In terms of forest cover as a percentage of geographical area, Lakshadweep leads with 91.33%, followed by Mizoram (85.34%) and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands (81.62%). Odisha’s substantial forest cover ensures its place among the states driving India’s green agenda forward.
The report also highlights critical metrics such as carbon stock and bamboo-bearing areas. India’s total carbon stock has reached 7,285.5 million tonnes, with an increase of 81.5 million tonnes compared to 2021. Odisha’s efforts contribute to this progress, aiding the nation’s goal of creating an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent by 2030.
Bhupender Yadav commended the efforts of Odisha and other states like Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, and Mizoram for their commitment to environmental conservation. He emphasized the role of technological advancements, such as real-time forest fire alerts, in bolstering forest management efforts across the country.
