India notified UNFF that during the past 15 years, forest conservation and management have improved

In terms of net growth in average yearly forest area between 2010 and 2020, India is in third place worldwide.

India reported to the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF) that during the past 15 years, there has been a steady rise in the amount of forest cover due to the country’s major achievements in forest conservation and management. The nation took part in the 19th Session of the UNFF, which took place from May 6–10 at the UN headquarters in New York.
India stated during the meeting that it has made biodiversity and wildlife conservation its top priority. It has added more than a thousand wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, tiger reserves, biosphere reserves, and other animal habitats to the network of protected areas.

India’s commitment to environmental conservation

The Environment Ministry stated in a statement that the recent ceremonies honoring 50 years of “Project Tiger” and 30 years of “Project Elephant” demonstrate India’s dedication to protecting wildlife habitats and conserving species.

India also announced the establishment of the International Big Cat Alliance, a global program designed to use cooperative efforts to safeguard and conserve the seven big cat species globally.

The nation also notified the UNFF of the launch of the “Green Credit Programme,” a market-driven system that rewards people for their voluntary environmental efforts on the part of businesses, communities, and individuals.

Previously, in October 2023, India held the UNFF Country Led Initiative in Dehradun, which focused on managing forest fires and certifying forests and was attended by delegates from 40 nations and 20 international organizations. During UNFF 19, the initiative’s proposals were made.
At UNFF19, the Ministry collaborated with the Agency for Integrated Rural Fire Management, Portugal, Korea Forest Service, and the International Tropical Timber Organisation to host a side event on “Principles and Strategies for Landscape Integrated Fire Management through Collaborative Governance.”

The United Nations Strategic Plan for Forests and the accomplishment of the Global Forest Goals are among the measures that will be implemented to stop deforestation, forest degradation, and land degradation. UNFF19 concluded with a declaration pledging immediate and expedited action to adopt these activities.