India State of Forest Report 2023

The “India State of Forest Report 2023” (ISFR 2023) was recently revealed by the Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav. This biennial report, produced by the Forest Survey of India (FSI) since 1987, offers comprehensive vital information about India’s forest and tree resources, utilising satellite imagery and field surveys.

Forest and Tree Cover Statistics

India’s total forest and tree cover spans 8,27,357 square kilometres, constituting 25.17% of the nation’s geographical area. The forest cover alone measures 7,15,343 square kilometres (21.76%), while tree cover accounts for 1,12,014 square kilometres (3.41%). Since 2021, there has been an increase of 1,445 square kilometres in total cover, with notable contributions from states like Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, and Rajasthan.

Leading States in Forest Cover

Madhya Pradesh leads with the largest forest and tree cover at 85,724 square kilometres. Arunachal Pradesh follows with 67,083 square kilometres, and Maharashtra has 65,383 square kilometres. Lakshadweep boasts the highest percentage of forest cover relative to its area at 91.33%, while Mizoram and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands follow closely.

Mangrove and Bamboo Statistics

India’s mangrove cover is estimated at 4,992 square kilometres, with bamboo-bearing areas reaching 1,54,670 square kilometres. This marks an increase of 5,227 square kilometres since 2021, denoting ongoing efforts in forest conservation.

Carbon Stock and Timber Production

The total growing stock of forests and trees outside forests is 6,430 million cubic metres, reflecting an increase of 262 million cubic metres since the last report. India’s annual potential timber production from trees outside forests is estimated at 91.51 million cubic metres, showcasing the economic value of forest resources.

The report reveals an increase in carbon stock within forests, now at 7,285.5 million tonnes. This growth is essential for meeting the 2030 targets under the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) for carbon sequestration. The data serves as a vital resource for policymakers, researchers, and conservationists.

GKToday Notes:

1. ISFR 2023: The India State of Forest Report 2023 assesses forest resources using satellite data. It is released biennially and provides crucial insights for environmental management.
2. FSI: The Forest Survey of India conducts forest assessments since 1987. It plays a vital role in monitoring forest cover and tree resources across the nation.
3. NDC: Nationally Determined Contributions are commitments under the Paris Agreement. India aims for carbon sequestration by 2030, enhancing climate resilience and sustainable development.

Month: Current Affairs - December, 2024

Category: Environment Current Affairs