India State of Forest Report
The Forest Survey of India (FSI), Dehradun, an organization under the Ministry, has conducted a biennial assessment of thickets cover since 1987. Subsequently, it published the findings in the India State of Forest Report (ISFR). Data from 751 districts, as compared to 638 districts in previous reports, caused the delay in the publication of the India State of Forest Report 2023. All in all, it considerably increased the area of forest covered in the survey.
The diversion of woods land for non-forestry purposes requires prior approval from the central government under the Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam, 1980. Between 01.04.2019 and 31.03.2024, the Ministry approved the diversion of 95,724.99 hectares of forest land for various non-forestry purposes, affecting different regions of thickets across the country.
Under the provisions of the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act, 2016, the National Authority approved 252,000.44 hectares for compensatory afforestation (CA) under the Annual Plan of Operations (APOs). submitted by States and Union Territories from 2019 to 2024, ensuring that forest loss is compensated through afforestation projects.
According to the ISFR, woods cover includes all lands exceeding one hectare with a tree canopy density of more than 10%, regardless of ownership or legal status. This definition also encompasses orchards, bamboo, and palm plantations, all contributing to the overall forest classification.
Supplementary Information – Trivia
Here are some interesting trivia facts about Hindu myths associated with forests in India
- The Forest of Khandava: In the epic Mahabharata, it is famously associated with the hero Arjuna and Lord Krishna. The two gods set fire to the forest to help the fire deity, Agni, consume the dense vegetation. This act was crucial in establishing the city of Indraprastha, which later became the capital of the Pandavas.
- The Legend of Rishyamook: Rishyamook is a mythical mountain mentioned in the Ramayana, believed to be surrounded by dense forests. It was here that Sugriva, the Vanara king, took refuge from his brother Vali. Hanuman and Rama sought Sugriva’s help in their quest to rescue Sita.
- Bharat’s Connection to Forests: In the Ramayana, the forest serves as a sanctuary for Bharata, Lord Rama’s brother. After Rama’s exile, Bharata resides in the forest of Chitrakoot, famously placing Rama’s sandals on the throne of Ayodhya as a gesture of loyalty.
- The Sacred Botanicals: Many trees and plants mentioned in Hindu texts hold significant spiritual meanings. The banyan tree (Ficus benghalensis), often referred to as “vata,” symbolizes eternal life due to its long life span. Similarly, the peepal tree (Ficus religiosa) is associated with Lord Buddha’s enlightenment and is considered sacred in Hinduism.
- The Forest of Dandakaranya: This expansive forest plays a crucial role in the Ramayana, as it is the location where Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana spent their exile. It is often depicted as both a place of danger and a refuge, where they encountered various sages and faced numerous challenges.
References & Related Articles:
- Press Information Bureau – Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
- The Hindu: Forest Conservation and PESA -The Panchayat (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act
Want to stay informed and inspired? Subscribe to our blog for insightful updates delivered straight to your inbox. Explore our website for a curated collection of reference books, resources, and more – designed to fuel your curiosity and keep you ahead.
Curiosity may have killed the cat, but it surely keeps you entertained and informed! Don’t miss out on these informative posts about the forest and more!
4 thoughts on “Forest Preservation in India: Key Report Insights”