Have you ever been to a forest? Walked on the very same track that a wild animal might have taken, or perhaps stumbled on a lake with not another human in sight? Have you witnessed the sheer grandeur of the tall Sal trees, or have you lost your way in the Terai grasslands? Have you been mesmerised by the alpine meadows of the north, the diversity that the western ghats offer or perhaps not found a single ounce of shade in the Thar Desert? Each one is a forest, with intricate ecosystems that harbour life and play their role.
India’s forests host approximately 8% of the world's documented species, with a remarkable array encompassing over 45,000 plant species and more than 91,000 animal species. This vast biodiversity includes numerous endemic species unique to a particular region. India has established a widespread network of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental conservation. These protected areas not only safeguard the country's natural treasures but also enhance public awareness of the need to preserve one of the planet's most dynamic ecosystems.
India also has a complex tapestry of laws and legislations that protect our forests. For decades, our position on forests has been that of conservation rather than extraction. These are pivotal legal frameworks aimed at preserving and expanding these ecosystems.
Thanks to sustained efforts and the dedication of frontline forest staff, India has steadily expanded its forest and tree cover. According to the latest India State of Forest Report (ISFR), the total forest and tree cover now spans 827,357 sq km—25.17% of the country’s geographical area—marking a gain of 1,445 sq km since 2021. The country’s growing stock volume has risen to 6,430 million cubic meters, while carbon stock has reached 30.43 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent—bringing the country significantly closer to its 2030 target of an additional 2.5 to 3.0 billion tonnes.
This World Environment Day, we spotlight the vital role forests play in sustaining life—far beyond their scenic beauty. Forest ecosystems are deeply interwoven with food security, biodiversity, and livelihoods. They not only nourish the planet ecologically but also serve as economic and cultural lifelines for millions. In India, forests have long been central to the lives of rural and indigenous communities. From the tendu leaves and mahua flowers of central India to the diverse edible plants of the Northeast, forests provide nutrition, income, and cultural continuity. They are not just landscapes; they are lifelines—quietly supporting the very systems that feed and sustain us. As we face global environmental challenges, protecting and restoring forests is not just an ecological imperative—it’s a social and economic one too.
Depleting forest resources are deepening poverty in rural areas, making restoration vital for sustaining livelihoods. GDi is partnering with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change to develop policies and programs that restore degraded forest lands, expand green cover, and promote sustainable forest management. Our efforts focus on community-based conservation, capacity building, and eco-friendly livelihoods, while strengthening forest governance and encouraging climate-resilient practices to support both biodiversity and rural well-being.
GDi has supported the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in launching PRAMAAN, India’s indigenous Forest and Wood Certification Scheme. Designed to make forest certification more accessible and affordable for small and marginal landholders, PRAMAAN is a significant step toward inclusive and sustainable forestry. We are also working with the Ministry to implement the National Transit Pass System (NTPS) under the 'One Nation, One Pass' initiative, streamlining timber and forest produce movement. This digital platform has improved transparency, reduced regulatory barriers, and processed over 300,000 applications so far. In addition, we’ve contributed to formulating model rules for harmonizing tree felling regulations across states, promoting high-value timber cultivation and lowering import reliance. Our team is also actively shaping the framework for the Green Credit Program, which supports large-scale eco-restoration. Over 22,000 hectares of degraded forest land have already been earmarked for restoration under this initiative. We are also envisioning an end-to-end timber traceability system, aiming to enhance transparency, ensure legal sourcing, and support responsible forest produce trade.
The theme of World Environment Day 2025, "Beat Plastic Pollution," calls for urgent, coordinated action to address the global plastic crisis. While plastic pollution is often associated with oceans and urban areas, its impact on forests is equally harmful—yet frequently overlooked.
Combating plastic pollution also paves the way for sustainable, forest-friendly alternatives. As the world shifts away from synthetic materials, there is a growing embrace of biodegradable options like bamboo, jute, and leaf-based products—many of which are sourced directly from forests. This transition not only reduces dependence on plastics but also fosters eco-conscious economic opportunities for forest-dependent communities. By encouraging the responsible and regenerative use of forest resources, we safeguard environmental health while strengthening the livelihoods of those who rely on forests for sustenance, income, and cultural continuity.
This World Environment Day, let’s remember—forests are not just trees. They are living systems that protect, provide, and connect us all.