Aiming for Healthy Green Cover

The India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023 highlights a paradox in India’s forest cover. While overall forest and tree cover has increased to 25% of the total geographical area, the destruction of dense forests, especially in biodiversity hotspots, raises concerns about the quality of the cover. The government aims to reach one-third forest cover, as per the National Forest Policy, 1988, and forest conservation and afforestation activities need acceleration.

Key Dimensions of the Issue

• Forest Cover vs. Forest Quality: India’s forest and tree cover has increased to 25% of the total land area, but this statistic masks the loss of 6.3% of the country's dense forests in the last two decades. Most of this loss has been offset by plantations, which grow much faster than natural forests, questioning the overall ecological value of this increase.
• Loss of Biodiversity and Degraded Ecosystems: The destruction of dense forests is particularly evident in biodiversity-rich areas like the Western Ghats, Nilgiris, and Northeast India. Additionally, the ongoing loss of mangroves in Kutch and Andaman Islands and the threat to open natural ecosystems highlight the risks to India’s rich biodiversity.
• Global Importance of Forests: Forests are vital to the survival of around 1.6 billion people globally and provide a crucial socioeconomic safety net. They contribute to biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and climate mitigation, playing a key role in reducing zoonotic diseases and promoting good health and well-being.

Solutions and Recommendations

• National Forest Policy and Afforestation: The National Forest Policy of 1988 targets having one-third of the land area under forest cover. To achieve this, afforestation activities need to pick up pace, and the focus must shift to the regeneration of natural forests rather than relying solely on plantations.
• Financial Incentives and Collaborative Efforts: To promote forest conservation, the government should provide financial incentives, tax benefits, and subsidies for tree planting. Collaboration with industries, NGOs, and local communities will be critical in funding and implementing green projects, ensuring sustainable forest management.
• Restoration of Degraded Lands: The government should carry out restoration of degraded lands through soil restoration techniques, watershed management, and reforestation. Establishing seed banks and nurseries will help provide high-quality planting material to support afforestation efforts.

Practice Question:

Q. While India has made progress in increasing its forest cover, the quality of forest ecosystems continues to decline due to the loss of dense forests and the spread of plantations. Discuss the challenges in achieving the forest cover target under the National Forest Policy, 1988, and suggest measures to address these issues.