December 22nd 2024.
The state of Odisha has achieved a great feat in terms of increasing its green cover, as per the latest India State of Forest Report-2023. This biennial report, published by the Forest Survey of India since 1987, provides a comprehensive analysis of the country's forest and tree resources. The report, which was released by Union Forest Minister Bhupender Yadav on Saturday, has ranked Odisha second in the country for the maximum increase in green cover within its recorded forest area.
According to the report, Odisha has reported a significant increase of 118.17 square kilometers in its forest cover, closely following Mizoram which has secured the top position with an increase of 192.92 square kilometers. Other states such as Karnataka, West Bengal, and Jharkhand have also shown notable growth in their forest cover, recording an increase of 93.14, 52.72, and 52.72 square kilometers respectively.
In terms of combined forest and tree cover, Odisha has secured the third position in the country with a growth of 558.57 square kilometers. This is a remarkable achievement for the state, further solidifying its position as a leader in environmental conservation. The report also highlights the top-performing states in terms of overall increase in forest cover, with Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan securing the top three spots.
The report further reveals that Odisha's current forest and tree cover stands at 37.63% of its total geographical area which is 1,55,707 square kilometers. Out of this, 33,040.47 square kilometers falls under the recorded forest area, while the remaining 19,393.09 square kilometers is outside the recorded forest area of the state. Nationally, there has been a net increase of 156.41 square kilometers in forest cover since the last assessment in 2021.
Notably, Odisha has registered a growth of 151.89 square kilometers, making it one of the top performers in the country along with Mizoram and Gujarat, which have recorded an increase of 241.73 square kilometers and 180.07 square kilometers respectively. This achievement has been applauded by former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who took to social media to share the key findings of the report related to Odisha.
As per the report, Odisha has secured the third position in terms of increasing forest and tree cover, recorded the third highest increase in forest cover, and ranked second in increasing forest cover within the Forest Rights Act (FRA). The state has also been recognized for having the third highest growing stock in agroforestry. Additionally, Odisha has been ranked fourth in terms of its bamboo-bearing area, with Madhya Pradesh taking the top spot followed by Arunachal Pradesh and Maharashtra.
This remarkable achievement by Odisha is a testament to its commitment towards preserving and increasing its green cover. It is a proud moment for the state and its efforts towards environmental conservation have been recognized and appreciated by the nation. With its continued efforts, Odisha is poised to become a role model for other states in the country in terms of forest and tree cover.
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