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The India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023 is a vital document released by the Forest Survey of India (FSI) under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. This biennial report provides detailed information on the state of forests and tree cover in the country, offering insights into biodiversity, forest management, and ecological trends. For UPSC aspirants, understanding the ISFR is crucial for topics related to environment, ecology, and sustainable development in the General Studies paper, as well as for the Indian Forest Service examination.
1. Forest Cover and Tree Cover
Forest Cover: As per ISFR 2023, India’s total forest cover stands at 7,14,249 square kilometers, constituting 21.73% of the geographical area.
Tree Cover: The tree cover in India is 2.91% of the total geographical area, amounting to 95,748 square kilometers.
Increase/Decrease: The report highlights a net increase of 1,540 square kilometers in forest and tree cover compared to the 2021 assessment.
2. State-wise Distribution
Top States in Forest Cover: Madhya Pradesh has the largest forest cover, followed by Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Maharashtra.
Highest Forest Cover as Percentage of Geographical Area: Mizoram (84.53%), Arunachal Pradesh (79.33%), and Meghalaya (76%) lead.
3. Forest Density Classification
Very Dense Forests (VDF): Covering 2.76% of India’s land, VDFs are critical for carbon sequestration and biodiversity.
Moderately Dense Forests (MDF): Constituting 9.54% of the geographical area, MDFs are vital for wildlife habitats and local economies.
Open Forests (OF): Representing 9.43%, these are areas with sparse tree cover, often under pressure from human activities.
1. Carbon Stock and Climate Change
India’s total carbon stock in forests is estimated at 7,204 million tonnes, showing an increase of 79 million tonnes since 2021.
This aligns with India’s commitments under the Paris Agreement to enhance carbon sinks.
2. Mangroves
Mangrove cover has increased by 17 square kilometers, reaching 4,992 square kilometers in 2023.
West Bengal accounts for 42.45% of India’s mangroves, crucial for coastal protection and biodiversity.
3. Forest Fire and Degradation
Over 35% of India’s forests are prone to frequent fires, with the highest incidence reported in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha.
The report underscores the need for advanced fire management systems.
4. Biodiversity and Protected Areas
The ISFR includes data on forest types, flora, and fauna.
It emphasizes the importance of protected areas like national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves in conserving biodiversity.
Deforestation and Encroachments
Unsustainable agricultural practices, infrastructure development, and mining activities remain major causes of deforestation.
Degradation of Forest Quality
Despite an increase in forest cover, qualitative degradation, such as the loss of biodiversity and reduction in canopy density, poses significant challenges.
Impact of Climate Change
Rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns are affecting forest ecosystems, with observable shifts in forest types.
National Afforestation Programme (NAP)
Aims to restore degraded forest lands and increase forest and tree cover.
Green India Mission
Focuses on enhancing ecosystem services and biodiversity through afforestation activities.
CAMPA Funds
Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority supports afforestation and ecological restoration projects.
Digital Initiatives
Use of GIS and remote sensing technologies for precise monitoring and planning.
The ISFR 2023 serves as an essential resource for understanding the dynamic trends in India’s forest and tree cover. By integrating data and insights from the report into preparation strategies, UPSC aspirants can gain a comprehensive understanding of environmental governance, ecological sustainability, and India’s commitments to global environmental goals.
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