Paradox of Forest Growth in India

• The article discusses the paradox of forest growth in India, highlighting a net increase of 16,630 sq km in forest cover over the past decade.
• This growth masks significant losses in crucial ecosystems, particularly in the Northeast, high-altitude regions, and mangroves.
• The Forest Conservation Rules 2022 are criticized for prioritizing quantity over quality, posing challenges for genuine conservation.

Key Points

Definitions

• Conservation: Protection, restoration, and sustainable management of natural forests and ecosystems.
• Greening: Increasing green cover through plantations, often involving monoculture.

Differences Between Conservation and Greening

Importance of Forest Conservation

• Climate Change Mitigation: Forests absorb greenhouse gases, aiding in meeting climate targets under the Paris Agreement.
• Biodiversity: India hosts 7-8% of all recorded species; forests are essential for ecosystem services like pollination and natural pest control.
• Disaster Resilience: Forests mitigate natural disasters and protect coastal areas, with coastal mangroves sequestering carbon effectively.
• Water Security: Forests regulate the hydrological cycle and prevent soil erosion, benefiting agriculture and drinking water supply.
• Socioeconomic Benefits: Over 200 million people depend on forests for livelihoods through minor forest produce.

Key Challenges in Forest Conservation

1. Deforestation for Development: Large-scale deforestation for infrastructure projects, with 3 lakh hectares diverted for non-forestry use in 15 years.
2. Quality Degradation: Despite increased cover, the quality of very dense forests is declining, masked by afforestation efforts.
3. Mangrove Loss: Significant loss of mangrove coverage, increasing vulnerability to climate-induced disasters.
4. Inadequate Implementation of the Forest Rights Act: Many claims remain unapproved, leading to tribal community evictions.
5. Weakening of Environmental Regulations: New policies prioritize commercial use over conservation, undermining protections for forest-dependent communities.
6. Forest Fires: Increased frequency and intensity due to climate change, with 54.40% of forests exposed to occasional fires.
7. Illegal Activities: Encroachment, poaching, and illegal logging continue to undermine forest ecosystems.

Measures for Strengthening Conservation Efforts

• Community Participation: Empowering local and tribal communities in forest governance and conservation.
• Restoration Focus: Prioritizing the restoration of natural forests over monoculture plantations.
• Technology Utilization: Leveraging satellite and GIS technologies for monitoring and enforcement.
• Landscape-Based Approach: Integrating conservation with agriculture and urban planning to ensure ecosystem protection.
• Mangrove Conservation: Implementing programs focused on mangrove restoration and protection.
• Agroforestry Promotion: Linking agroforestry practices with rural development to reduce dependency on forests.
• Carbon Market Utilization: Attracting funding for conservation through carbon credits.
• National Forest Fire Strategy: Developing comprehensive strategies for fire prevention and management.

Way Forward

While India has expanded forest cover, it must enhance forest health and biodiversity. A balanced approach is essential, aligning environmental, social, and economic goals for sustainable development.

Mains Answer Writing Practice Question

“Despite significant efforts towards afforestation and greening initiatives, India continues to face challenges in conserving forests and protecting critical ecosystems.” Discuss the key issues associated with India’s forest conservation efforts and suggest measures to enhance the effectiveness of these efforts. (200 words)