Tree Plantation: Record Forest and Tree Cover Growth in 2023
NEW DELHI (India CSR): In 2023, India’s environmental efforts reached new heights with the planting of 589.70 crore seedlings, covering a total area of 8.77 million hectares under tree plantation initiatives. This significant achievement contributes to India’s total forest and tree cover, which stands at 80.9 million hectares, constituting 24.62% of the country’s geographical area, according to the Annual Report, 2023-24 of India’s Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change.
Seedlings are young plants that have recently sprouted from seeds. They are typically in the early stages of growth and development, usually having only a few sets of leaves. Seedlings are crucial in forestry and agricultural practices as they are the foundation for growing mature plants and trees. In the context of reforestation and tree plantation initiatives, seedlings are planted to develop into full-grown trees, contributing to forest cover, carbon sequestration, and overall environmental health.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change has been allocated a budget of Rs. 3079.40 crore for the Financial Year 2023-24.
These efforts are part of the Indian government’s broader strategy to enhance forest productivity and meet carbon neutrality commitments through the Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act, 2023, and other key initiatives.
The Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) serves as the central authority within the Indian government responsible for overseeing the implementation of environmental and forest policies. This includes managing programs related to the conservation of the country’s natural resources, such as lakes, rivers, biodiversity, forests, and wildlife. Additionally, the MoEF&CC ensures animal welfare and addresses pollution prevention and control.
Forest and Tree Cover
According to the report, India’s total forest and tree cover is 80.9 million hectares, constituting 24.62% of the country’s geographical area. Since 2019, there has been an increase of 1,540 sq km in forest cover and 721 sq km in tree cover. By October 2023, 589.70 crore seedlings were planted, covering a total area of 8.77 million hectares under tree plantation initiatives.
Protected Areas Increase
Since 2014, the number of Protected Areas in India has risen from 745 to 998, now accounting for 5.28% of the country’s total geographic area. Additionally, the number of Community Reserves has increased from 43 in 2014 to 220 in 2023. This significant increase demonstrates the government’s commitment to conserving biodiversity and protecting natural habitats.
MISHTI Program Launch
On World Environment Day, June 5, 2023, the Prime Minister launched the Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI). This initiative focuses on the restoration of mangrove forests along India’s coastline through reforestation and afforestation measures. The Ministry has prepared a proposal for the MISHTI program, with Rs. 100 crores allocated for FY 2023-24 under the National CAMPA authority.
Blue Flag Beaches
In 2014, India had no Blue Flag certified beaches. However, the government’s beach development efforts have led to the certification of eight beaches in 2020 and a total of 12 beaches by 2022. This certification indicates that these beaches meet stringent environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility standards.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Forest and Tree Cover | 80.9 million hectares |
| Percentage of Geographical Area | 24.62% |
| Increase Since 2019 | 1,540 sq km (forest cover) and 721 sq km (tree cover) |
| Seedlings Planted (2023) | 589.70 crore |
| Area Covered by Plantations (2023) | 8.77 million hectares |
| Protected Areas (2023) | 998 areas (5.28% of geographical area) |
| Community Reserves (2023) | 220 reserves |
| MISHTI Program Launch | June 5, 2023 |
| MISHTI Program Funding (FY 2023-24) | Rs. 100 crores |
| Blue Flag Certified Beaches (2022) | 12 beaches |
(India CSR)
