In a recent report by the Global Forest Watch (GFW), alarming trends of tree cover loss and deforestation have been unveiled, showcasing the significant environmental challenges faced by India over the past two decades.

The report reveals that since the year 2000, India has lost a staggering 2.33 million hectares of tree cover, marking a six percent decrease in its forested areas. This loss encompasses various factors, including natural disturbances such as fires and human-induced activities like deforestation and logging.

Among the states most affected by this phenomenon, Assam emerges as the hardest hit, accounting for the highest tree cover loss of 324,000 hectares—far exceeding the national average loss rate of 66,600 hectares. Other severely impacted states include Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Manipur, collectively contributing to 60% of the nation’s total tree cover loss between 2001 and 2023.

India’s forests play a critical role in carbon sequestration, absorbing 141 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent annually from 2001 to 2022. However, despite their capacity as a carbon sink, forests in India also emitted 51 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent per year during the same period due to deforestation and degradation, resulting in a net carbon sink of 89.9 million tons per year.

The report further underscores India’s concerning position on the global stage, ranking second in deforestation rates between 2015 and 2020 with an average loss of 668,000 hectares annually, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization.

Forest fires have also contributed significantly to tree cover loss, with Odisha experiencing the highest rate of loss due to fires, averaging 238 hectares per year. Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Assam, and Meghalaya are among the other states grappling with the impact of forest fires on their ecosystems.

The use of satellite imagery by the Global Forest Watch allows for the monitoring of tree cover loss on a large scale and at relatively low cost. However, it’s crucial to note that tree cover loss does not always equate to deforestation, as it can result from various factors including natural disasters and human activities.

The findings of this report highlight the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address forest degradation in India. Sustainable land-use practices, community engagement, policy interventions, and investments in forest conservation and restoration efforts are imperative to mitigate the impacts of deforestation, preserve biodiversity, and safeguard the ecological balance crucial for the well-being of both nature and communities reliant on forest resources.