Odisha Ranks Among Top States in Green Cover Growth in India State of Forest Report 2023

Bhubaneswar: Odisha has shined in the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023, emerging as one of the top contributors to the country’s growing green cover.
The biennially report, released by Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, provides a detailed assessment of the nation’s forest and tree resources.
As per the report, Odisha recorded a commendable growth of 559 sq km in combined forest and tree cover, sharing the second spot with Uttar Pradesh, while Chhattisgarh led with an increase of 684 sq km. Rajasthan followed closely with a 394 sq km rise.

Odisha also ranked third in forest cover growth with an increase of 152 sq km, trailing Mizoram (242 sq km) and Gujarat (180 sq km).

Nationally, the total forest and tree cover has expanded to 8,27,357 sq km, representing 25.17% of India’s geographical area. Of this, 7,15,343 sq km (21.76%) is forest cover, while 1,12,014 sq km (3.41%) is tree cover. Compared to 2021, the total green cover increased by 1,445 sq km, with Odisha playing a pivotal role in this achievement alongside other leading states.

Odisha’s performance is notable in the context of mangrove ecosystems, which are vital for coastal resilience and biodiversity. The state contributes significantly to the country’s total mangrove cover of 4,992 sq km, supporting both environmental conservation and climate adaptation.
In terms of forest cover as a percentage of geographical area, Lakshadweep leads with 91.33%, followed by Mizoram (85.34%) and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands (81.62%). Odisha’s substantial forest cover ensures its place among the states driving India’s green agenda forward.

The report also highlights critical metrics such as carbon stock and bamboo-bearing areas. India’s total carbon stock has reached 7,285.5 million tonnes, with an increase of 81.5 million tonnes compared to 2021.

Odisha’s efforts contribute to this progress, aiding the nation’s goal of creating an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent by 2030.

The report reflects the previous Odisha Government’s dedicated efforts toward afforestation and sustainable forest management.

BJD President and Leader of Opposition (LoP) Naveen Patnaik has expressed his happiness over the achievement of Odisha.

Naveen said that he was glad that Odisha has emerged as leading state in increasing green cover as per the biennial, “India State of Forest Report 2023” .

Glad to share that #Odisha has emerged as leading state in increasing green cover as per the biennial, “India State of Forest Report 2023” prepared by @moefcc. Odisha has emerged as third leading state in increasing in forest and tree cover (559 Sq Km), recorded third highest… pic.twitter.com/izwc9iq2uV

— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) December 21, 2024