The recent discourse in the Indian Parliament regarding climate resilience and pollution control underscores the Government's commitment to addressing climate change through various initiatives. Below is a comprehensive summary of the relevant actions, schemes, and frameworks in place.
Key Initiatives and Schemes
National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC):
- Launched to enhance climate resilience and incorporates nine national missions.
- Focus areas include agriculture, energy efficiency, forests, solar energy, and sustainable habitat, with six missions targeting adaptation for vulnerable communities.
National Clean Air Programme (NCAP):
- A multi-sector initiative aimed at improving air quality in 130 cities across 24 States/Union Territories.
- The program has received a performance-linked grant of Rs. 13,036.52 crore for air quality improvement measures.
Regulatory Framework:
- Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) mandates high-pollution industries to install Online Continuous Effluent/Emission Monitoring Systems (OCEMS).
- Real-time monitoring ensures compliance with environmental standards and triggers alerts for corrective measures when pollution exceeds permissible limits.
Water Pollution Management:
- CPCB has directed compliance with the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 for sewer management.
- Establishment of a National Water Quality Monitoring Network (NWMP), which covers 4736 monitoring locations across India to assess aquatic pollution.
Polluted River Stretches:
- Identification of 311 Polluted River Stretches (PRS) on 279 rivers based on their Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) levels.
- Action plans for rejuvenation are drafted by state-level River Rejuvenation Committees.
Solid Waste Management:
- In accordance with the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, local authorities are required to engage communities in proper waste management practices.
- Emphasis on public awareness campaigns regarding home composting and decentralized waste processing is mandated.
Environmental Awareness Campaign
- On World Environment Day, 2024, the Prime Minister launched the campaign 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam (# Plant4Mother)', encouraging tree plantation as a tribute to motherhood and Earth preservation.
- An impressive total of 1.64 billion trees have been planted under this initiative.
Summary of Legislative Provisions
- Section 18(1)(b) of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 frame the guidelines for pollution control and environmental protection initiatives undertaken by the CPCB.
- Guidelines for the restoration of water bodies were issued by CPCB in June 2019 to promote stakeholder involvement in the rejuvenation efforts.
Factual Takeaways
- India’s commitment to climate resilience is reflected in multiple sectoral adaptations, regulatory measures, and community-oriented public health initiatives.
- The active involvement of the Central and State Governments, local bodies, and communities is critical in achieving India’s climate goals amid rising challenges posed by climate change.
This summary encapsulates the government’s multi-pronged approach to enhance climate resilience and combat pollution through structured initiatives and community involvement, aiming for a sustainable and environmentally friendly future.

The recent discourse in the Indian Parliament regarding climate resilience and pollution control underscores the Government's commitment to addressing climate change through various initiatives. Below is a comprehensive summary of the relevant actions, schemes, and frameworks in place.
Key Initiatives and Schemes
National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC):
- Launched to enhance climate resilience and incorporates nine national missions.
- Focus areas include agriculture, energy efficiency, forests, solar energy, and sustainable habitat, with six missions targeting adaptation for vulnerable communities.
National Clean Air Programme (NCAP):
- A multi-sector initiative aimed at improving air quality in 130 cities across 24 States/Union Territories.
- The program has received a performance-linked grant of Rs. 13,036.52 crore for air quality improvement measures.
Regulatory Framework:
- Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) mandates high-pollution industries to install Online Continuous Effluent/Emission Monitoring Systems (OCEMS).
- Real-time monitoring ensures compliance with environmental standards and triggers alerts for corrective measures when pollution exceeds permissible limits.
Water Pollution Management:
- CPCB has directed compliance with the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 for sewer management.
- Establishment of a National Water Quality Monitoring Network (NWMP), which covers 4736 monitoring locations across India to assess aquatic pollution.
Polluted River Stretches:
- Identification of 311 Polluted River Stretches (PRS) on 279 rivers based on their Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) levels.
- Action plans for rejuvenation are drafted by state-level River Rejuvenation Committees.
Solid Waste Management:
- In accordance with the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, local authorities are required to engage communities in proper waste management practices.
- Emphasis on public awareness campaigns regarding home composting and decentralized waste processing is mandated.
Environmental Awareness Campaign
- On World Environment Day, 2024, the Prime Minister launched the campaign 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam (# Plant4Mother)', encouraging tree plantation as a tribute to motherhood and Earth preservation.
- An impressive total of 1.64 billion trees have been planted under this initiative.
Summary of Legislative Provisions
- Section 18(1)(b) of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 frame the guidelines for pollution control and environmental protection initiatives undertaken by the CPCB.
- Guidelines for the restoration of water bodies were issued by CPCB in June 2019 to promote stakeholder involvement in the rejuvenation efforts.
Factual Takeaways
- India’s commitment to climate resilience is reflected in multiple sectoral adaptations, regulatory measures, and community-oriented public health initiatives.
- The active involvement of the Central and State Governments, local bodies, and communities is critical in achieving India’s climate goals amid rising challenges posed by climate change.
This summary encapsulates the government’s multi-pronged approach to enhance climate resilience and combat pollution through structured initiatives and community involvement, aiming for a sustainable and environmentally friendly future.

Importance of Mangroves in Conservation
Summary of Mangrove Conservation and M.S. Swaminathan's Contributions
Overview of Mangrove Importance:
- Traditionally recognized by local communities for resources, mangroves have garnered global attention due to their role in disaster risk reduction, climate adaptation, and ecosystem services.
- The value of mangroves was highlighted at the Climate Change and Human Responses conference in Tokyo in 1989 by M.S. Swaminathan, who emphasized the threats of rising sea levels and cyclones on coastal communities.
Key Contributions of M.S. Swaminathan:
- Promoted sustainable mangrove management based on ecological, economic, and equity principles.
- Founded the International Society for Mangrove Ecosystems (ISME) in 1990, which works globally on mangrove conservation, research, and management.
- Co-created the Charter for Mangroves, pivotal for international conservation efforts, during the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development.
- Developed the GLObal Mangrove database and Information System (GLOMIS) to improve knowledge sharing regarding mangrove species and genetic resources.
Mangrove Management in India:
- India’s mangrove management history includes significant degradation and reclamation for agriculture, with more structured legal frameworks emerging post-1980, like the Indian Forest (Conservation) Act.
- Participatory research led by Swaminathan showed that ecological degradation from clear-felling was the main cause of mangrove loss, prompting a shift in restoration strategies.
- Introduction of the hydro-ecological "fishbone canal" method for mangrove restoration, which was piloted in multiple Indian states.
National Framework and Investments:
- The Joint Mangrove Management programme was evaluated and recommended in 2000, leading to increased investments and renewed focus on mangrove conservation.
- Mangroves demonstrated their protective qualities during events like the 1999 Odisha super cyclone and the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, influencing further protection measures.
Current Status and Future Directions:
- As of the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023, India has a mangrove cover of 4,991.68 km², representing 0.15% of the national land area, with an increase noted since the previous report in 2019.
- Observance of World Mangrove Day on July 26 underscores the continuous need for action and evaluation in mangrove conservation.
Key Important Sentences:
- Mangroves are critical for disaster risk reduction, climate adaptation, and ecosystem services.
- M.S. Swaminathan highlighted the risks of climate change to coastal communities at a conference in Tokyo in 1989.
- The ISME, founded by Swaminathan, plays a vital role in global research and initiatives for mangrove conservation.
- The Charter for Mangroves is a global reference for conservation efforts, established during the 1992 UN conference.
- The fishbone canal method was developed for effective mangrove restoration and tested in various regions of India.
- The Joint Mangrove Management programme has stimulated investments in mangrove restoration since its evaluation in 2000.
- Data from the ISFR 2023 indicates a slight increase in mangrove cover in India, highlighting ongoing conservation efforts.
- World Mangrove Day serves as a reminder of the need for proactive measures in mangrove management globally.
Environment and Ecology

Tamil Nadu's Mangrove Restoration Efforts
On July 26, 2025, which marks World Mangrove Day, Environment and Climate Change Minister Thangam Thennarasu initiated the planting of mangrove saplings at the Adyar estuary in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. This initiative forms part of the state's broader strategy to combat climate challenges and protect its extensive coastline.
Key Points:
World Mangrove Day: Celebrated annually on July 26. The observation began to raise awareness of the necessity and benefits of mangroves.
Mangrove Planting and Restoration: Since 2022, Tamil Nadu has effectively planted and restored over 2,900 hectares of mangroves across nine coastal districts to mitigate the impacts of cyclones, tidal surges, erosion, and to bolster biodiversity and local economies.
Geographical Context: Tamil Nadu's coastline stretches 1,076 kilometers across 14 districts, increasingly becoming vulnerable to climate-related risks.
Government Initiatives:
- In February 2023, the government rolled out a three-year Mangrove Restoration Scheme with an allocation of ₹25 crore. This initiative focuses on both planting new mangroves and rehabilitating degraded mangrove areas.
- The scheme will run until 2026, targeting ten districts that encompass both forest and revenue lands conducive for mangrove growth.
Planting Statistics:
- In the first year (2022-23), 1,181.4 hectares were planted, with significant efforts centered in Thiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, and Thoothukudi, alongside the restoration of 200 hectares of degraded mangroves, mostly in Thiruvarur.
- The following year (2023-24) saw the addition of 720 hectares of new plantations and the restoration of 732 hectares.
- For 2024-25, a further 275 hectares are expected to be planted.
Planting Techniques: Innovative techniques employed in the planting process include:
- Linear planting of propagules.
- Intertidal nursery cultivation.
- Modified fish-bone planting patterns intended to maximize seedling survival.
Focus on Rare Species: The restoration initiative emphasizes reintroducing rare mangrove species such as Sonneratia apetala, Xylocarpus granatum, and Kandelia candel, which had dwindled in population in the region.
Bio-Shield Plantations: The initiative includes the establishment of bio-shield plantations comprising trees like casuarina, palmyrah, and cashew to mitigate wind and wave actions.
Associated Programs: The mangrove plantation efforts align with several governmental initiatives including:
- Tamil Nadu Biodiversity Conservation and Greening Project for Climate Change Response (TBGPCCR).
- Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA).
- Chennai River Restoration Trust (CRRT).
- Other centrally sponsored schemes.
Challenges: Despite these advancements, challenges persist, particularly in districts such as Chengalpattu and Pudukkottai, where plantation activities are hampered due to ecological or hydrological issues.
This comprehensive set of initiatives demonstrates Tamil Nadu's commitment to restoring and enhancing its coastal ecosystems while addressing significant climate challenges. The state’s efforts reflect a proactive approach to safeguarding biodiversity and supporting local communities through resilience-building in the face of climate change.
Environment and Ecology

IMD Forecasts Heavy Rain in West Bengal
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a weather bulletin on July 25, 2025, forecasting significant rainfall in several regions of West Bengal due to a depression affecting the coastal areas of West Bengal and the adjoining Northwest Bay of Bengal and Bangladesh. The IMD's projections highlighted the potential for heavy to extremely heavy rainfall extending until July 31, 2025.
Key Highlights:
Forecast Period: July 25 to July 31, 2025.
Affected Areas: Various districts in South Bengal will be particularly impacted by rainfall and thunderstorms.
Rainfall Projections:
- Widespread light to moderate rainfall expected, with isolated heavy and very heavy rainfall anticipated in South Bengal.
- Isolated extremely heavy rainfall is also likely in certain regions.
Weather Conditions:
- Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds (30-40 km/h) are anticipated between July 25 and July 27.
Impact on Infrastructure and Agriculture:
- Waterlogging is expected in low-lying regions and underpass roads.
- The weather conditions could lead to reduced visibility and traffic disruptions.
- There is a potential rise in river water levels and damage to crops, alongside adverse effects on kutchha (temporary) roads and houses.
Warnings Issued:
- The IMD has cautioned the fisherfolk against venturing into the North and Central Bay of Bengal, and along the coasts of West Bengal and Odisha from July 25 to July 29 due to the adverse weather conditions.
Regional Breakdown:
- Southern districts of West Bengal will experience significant waterlogging issues.
- For the northern districts, temporary waterlogging and lightning strikes in open fields are predicted.
This bulletin underscores the IMD's continuous monitoring of weather patterns and its efforts to mitigate the adverse effects of severe weather conditions on the local populace and infrastructure. Given the forecasts and warnings issued, relevant authorities and community members are advised to remain vigilant and prepared for the upcoming weather challenges.
Environment and Ecology

Kerala High Court Upholds Plastic Ban
The Kerala High Court upheld a 2019 ban imposed by the State government on the manufacture, storage, transport, and sale of single-use plastic items, effective from January 1, 2020. This ruling came from a Bench led by Justice Viju Abraham and dismissed petitions filed by the Kerala Plastic Manufacturers’ Association, which challenged the legality of the ban.
Key Details of the Ruling:
Ban Details: The ban prohibits several categories of single-use plastic items, including:
- Plastic carry bags of all thicknesses
- Plastic sheets
- Single-use utensils (cups, plates, dishes, spoons, forks, straws, bowls)
- PET bottles less than 300 ml
- Plastic flags
- Non-woven bags
Petitions: The Kerala Plastic Manufacturers’ Association questioned the Kerala government's authority to enforce the ban without corresponding rules established by the Central government.
Legal Basis: The State government's orders were issued under the Environment Protection Act (EPA). The Supreme Court had previously upheld the State's authority to enact such provisions under this legislation.
Court’s Stance on Fines: The High Court addressed the petitions regarding fines that were imposed on the manufacturers for illegal activities related to single-use plastics, stating, “It is for the petitioners to work out their remedy in appropriate proceedings.” This indicates that the petitioners must seek redress through formal legal channels for any penalties faced.
Government Obligations: The High Court reinforced that the State government is responsible for the implementation of the directives outlined in its orders, and it must adhere to the regulations established by the central authority.
Additional Context:
Environmental Implications: The ban is part of Kerala's efforts to combat environmental pollution caused by plastics, aligning with global movements to reduce plastic waste and its ecological impacts.
Legislative Framework: The Environment Protection Act serves as a crucial regulatory framework that empowers state governments to establish and enforce environmental laws, particularly regarding waste management and pollution control strategies.
Conclusion:
The Kerala High Court's affirmation of the ban on single-use plastics reflects the ongoing legal and regulatory actions taken to mitigate environmental degradation within the state. By maintaining the validity of the State government's orders, the court underscored the legal authority vested in environmental protection initiatives.
Important Sentences:
- The Kerala High Court upheld a ban on single-use plastics effective from January 1, 2020.
- The ban includes various categories of plastic items.
- The petitioners challenged the State government’s powers under the relevant legal provisions.
- The ban is based on the Environment Protection Act, consistently supported by the Supreme Court.
- The court directed petitioners to pursue legal remedies for imposed fines.
- The State is obligated to implement both state and central directives regarding environmental protection.
Environment and Ecology

Bombay High Court on Ganesh Idols
On July 24, 2025, the Bombay High Court issued a directive concerning the immersion of Lord Ganesh idols during the upcoming 10-day Ganesh festival, scheduled to commence on August 27, 2025. The ruling mandates that idols up to six feet in height must be immersed in artificial tanks to minimize environmental impact. This order is valid until March of the following year, covering festivals in Maharashtra where the immersion of deities' idols is customary.
Key Details of the Directive:
- Height Restrictions: Idols up to six feet must be immersed in artificial tanks. The Court indicated that for idols exceeding this height, especially those up to eight feet, immersion in natural water bodies would be permissible under the state's revised policy.
- Environmental Considerations: The Court emphasized that the immersion process should have minimal environmental impacts. This viewpoint arose during the consideration of petitions regarding the implementation of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) guidelines, which specifically address the immersion of idols made from Plaster of Paris (PoP).
- Statistical Insights: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) lawyer presented data indicating that in the previous year, 195,000 idols under five feet were immersed in Mumbai. Out of this number, approximately 85,000 were immersed in artificial water bodies.
- Legal Context: The Court was also addressing petitions from Ganesh idol makers who contested the CPCB's guidelines banning immersion in natural water bodies, thereby balancing the environmental concerns with cultural practices.
Court's Orders:
- The Bombay High Court instructed the Maharashtra government to execute its policies in "letter and spirit," ensuring adherence to all regulations regarding idol immersion.
- Local bodies have been directed to engage with Ganpati committees to disseminate these policies and the outlined rules effectively.
- The formation of a committee has been mandated to recommend recycling methods for the PoP materials used in idol creation and to explore scientific and environmentally-friendly measures for the immersion process.
Summary Points:
- The Bombay High Court's directive was issued on July 24, 2025, regarding the immersion of Ganesh idols.
- Idols up to 6 feet must be immersed in artificial tanks; larger idols may use natural water bodies.
- This decision is motivated by the need to mitigate environmental impacts from idol immersion.
- The directive is part of a response to CPCB guidelines and petitions from idol makers.
- Over 195,000 idols under five feet were immersed in Mumbai last year, with 85,000 in artificial tanks.
- The Maharashtra government is required to implement these policies and engage local communities.
- A committee will be formed to focus on the recycling of idol materials and eco-friendly immersion practices.
This ruling represents a significant step toward balancing cultural traditions with environmental sustainability, emphasizing the role of government and local bodies in upholding these objectives during the festivities.
Environment and Ecology

Lantana Camara Threatens Himachal Biodiversity
Summary of the Invasive Species Lantana camara in Himachal Pradesh
Introduction
- Lantana camara, an invasive alien species, significantly threatens the biodiversity of Himachal Pradesh, infesting approximately 3,25,282 hectares of forested areas.
- Introduced in India during the early 18th century from Central and South America, Lantana has proliferated across the tropical regions of the country, including Himachal Pradesh.
Extent of Infestation
- The State Forest Department of Himachal Pradesh conducted surveys in 2010-11 and 2015-16, identifying around 2,35,491.93 hectares of forest significantly infested with Lantana.
- The recent India State of Forest Report 2023 indicates that 3,252.82 square kilometers (3,25,282 hectares) of forest area is infested.
Efforts and Outcomes
- Since 2009-10, the Forest Department has cleared 51,114.35 hectares of Lantana using the "cut root stock" method, and aims for an average eradication of 1,000 hectares annually.
- The department plans to plant native species following the removal of Lantana to prevent reinfestation.
Ecological Impacts
- Lantana camara poses serious risks to native flora by forming dense thickets that produce allelochemicals, inhibiting the growth of other plants under its canopy and leading to reduced species biodiversity.
- The infestation has been particularly aggressive in areas with sparse canopy coverage, threatening the overall ecological balance.
Expert Opinions
- Kuldip Dogra, a noted taxonomist, advocated for a transdisciplinary approach involving various stakeholders, including local communities and civil society, to develop socioeconomic alternatives for managing Lantana biomass.
- Suggestions include transforming Lantana biomass into furniture or fuelwood and using it for organic compost production.
Management Strategies
- Experts emphasize the need for stronger preventive measures, including avoiding the cultivation of invasive species for landscaping or economic purposes around highways.
- Early detection and eradication strategies are critical, with recommendations for a more rigorous implementation of eradication programs within strict timelines.
Recommendations from Experts
- G.S. Goraya, a researcher on floral diversity, highlighted the importance of tackling higher elevation infestations first to prevent further spread into lower regions.
- There is a consensus that an integrated approach involving local participation and alternative economic options can effectively manage the invasive species.
Government Policy
- The State Forest Department's management policy outlines that aggressive growth of Lantana camara, particularly along forest edges with sparse canopies, necessitates immediate action.
- The department's ongoing efforts to counter Lantana’s spread are a part of broader goals to enhance native biodiversity and forest health.
Important Points:
- Invasive Alien Species: Lantana camara introduced in the 18th century, threatens biodiversity in Himachal Pradesh.
- Extent of Infestation: Approximately 3,25,282 hectares of forests affected.
- Forest Department Actions: Cleared 51,114.35 hectares since 2009-10; aims to eradicate 1,000 hectares annually.
- Ecological Threats: Alters native flora dynamics, reducing biodiversity due to dense thickets and allelochemical production.
- Expert Calls for Action: A transdisciplinary approach involving stakeholders is essential for effective management.
- Management Strategies: Focus on prevention, early detection, and eradication, prioritizing higher elevations.
- Government Policy: Emphasizes integrated efforts to restore forest health and biodiversity.
Environment and Ecology

Concerns Over Alipore Zoo's Animal Decline
The article discusses concerns raised by Jawhar Sircar, a former Trinamool Congress MP and ex-Culture Secretary of India, regarding the significant decline in the population of animals and birds at the Alipore Zoological Garden in Kolkata. This decline has been substantiated by discrepancies in inventory data reported by the Central Zoo Authority.
Key points from the article:
Dramatic Decline: The population of animals at Alipore Zoo has dramatically declined from approximately 1,872 in 1996 to just 351 as of April 1, 2024. This marks an alarming decrease of over 300 animals in just one day, according to the inventory data.
Inventory Data Discrepancies: The Annual Inventory of Animals in Indian Zoos for the fiscal year 2023-2024 reported a closing stock of 672 on March 31, 2023, which later dropped to 351 the following day. The figures for the year 2024-25 indicated a recovery to 1,084 animals, but this raise does not specify the presence of larger species such as lions, tigers, elephants, and giraffes.
Call for Accountability: Sircar questioned the reasons behind such discrepancies, suggesting either gross negligence or deeper systemic issues. He called for the state government to provide explanations, highlighting the responsibility of the authorities as custodians of the zoo.
Concerns over Land Auction: Dipankar Sinha, a former Director General of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation, raised further alarm over a tender issued by the West Bengal Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO) to auction parts of the Alipore Zoo land, specifically an area that contains critical facilities like a veterinary hospital and animal rescue center, arguing that it's inappropriate for the municipal corporation to auction land it does not own.
Impact on Ecosystem: The allegations of animal disappearances and the proposed land auction have raised concerns about the deterioration of the zoo's ecological integrity. Critics warn that these actions might signify a move towards reducing the zoo's status as a reputable wildlife conservation entity.
Legal Action: The NGO SWAZON has filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) at the Calcutta High Court, citing a violation of Section 38-H of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, which mandates prior consent from the Central Zoo Authority before any alienation of zoo land. This legal measure reflects the seriousness of the allegations and the demand for compliance with regulatory frameworks.
Historical Context: The article notes that this isn't the first time the inventory data for Alipore Zoo has faced scrutiny for inaccuracies, with SWAZON members questioning the frequency of supposed clerical errors that are not being amended in subsequent reports.
In summary, ongoing concerns surrounding the management of the Alipore Zoo underscore themes of ecological conservation, regulatory compliance, and the accountability of governmental institutions in the context of wildlife protection.
Important Points:
- Significant decline of animals in Alipore Zoo from 1,872 in 1996 to 351 by April 2024.
- Inventory discrepancies reported by the Central Zoo Authority.
- Call for explanation from the State government by Jawhar Sircar.
- Land auction by HIDCO raises alarm about the ecological integrity of the zoo.
- Legal action initiated by SWAZON citing violations under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
- Continuous irregularities in zoo inventory data raise questions about governance and management practices.
Environment and Ecology

Increasing Forest Cover in India
The recent assessment report by the Forest Survey of India (FSI), Dehradun, has highlighted significant advancements in the forest and tree cover of India, as published in the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023. This biennial assessment utilizes remote sensing complemented by ground verification to map forests effectively.
Key Findings and Data:
- As per ISFR 2023, India’s total forest and tree cover stands at 8,27,356.95 square kilometers, constituting 25.17% of the nation's geographical area.
- The breakdown includes 7,15,342.61 square kilometers classified as forest cover and 1,12,014.34 square kilometers as tree cover.
- Notably, there has been an increase of 1,445.81 square kilometers in forest and tree cover from the previous assessment in 2021, which includes:
- 156.41 square kilometers increase in forest cover
- 1,289.40 square kilometers increase in tree cover
- Over the past decade, from ISFR 2013 to ISFR 2023, the forest cover has increased by 16,630.25 square kilometers, indicating a sustained growth trend in forest cover.
- These positive trends are attributed to several initiatives and policies focused on conservation, implemented by State Governments and Union Territory Administrations.
Legal Framework:
Forest protection and management fall under various legal frameworks, including:
- Indian Forest Act, 1927
- Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam, 1980
- Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
- Various State Forest Acts and Rules.
Government Initiatives:
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change provides essential support to the states through:
- Technical and financial aid for the conservation and management of forests.
- Funding from several schemes, including:
- National Mission for a Green India (GIM)
- Forest Fire Prevention and Management Scheme (FPM)
- Nagar Van Yojana (NVY)
- Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats
- Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes (MISHTI)
State-level afforestation efforts are also facilitated by the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA).
Recent Initiatives:
A recent nationwide plantation drive, titled “एक पेड़ माँ के नाम #Plant4Mother,” coinciding with World Environment Day 2024, aims to boost plantation activities. The initiative employs a “Whole of Government” and “Whole of Society” approach to engage various stakeholders in enhancing the green cover across the nation.
Conclusion:
The information shared by Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh, Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, in the Rajya Sabha reflects the government's commitment to improving forest cover and enacting proactive measures towards environmental conservation.
Important Points:
- The total forest and tree cover of India is 8,27,356.95 sq km (25.17% of the country’s area).
- Notable increase of 1,445.81 sq km in forest and tree cover since 2021.
- 16,630.25 sq km increase over the last decade (2013-2023).
- Legal frameworks in place for forest protection include key acts from the early 20th century onwards.
- Various government schemes are instrumental in enhancing forest management and conservation efforts.
- Ongoing plantation drive initiated for World Environment Day 2024 underlines the emphasis on community involvement in environmental sustainability.
Environment and Ecology

Climate Change Initiatives in India
The Indian Parliament's recent discussion highlighted various measures and schemes under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), which is aimed at addressing the effects of climate change across multiple sectors, including agriculture, water, energy, and health. The NAPCC is comprised of nine national missions, six of which primarily focus on enhancing adaptation and climate resilience for vulnerable communities.
Key Points:
National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC):
- Includes nine missions covering diverse areas: agriculture, energy efficiency, green India initiatives, the Himalayan ecosystem, human health, solar energy, climate knowledge, sustainable habitat, and water.
National Mission for a Green India (GIM):
- Launched in FY 2015-16, aims to enhance and protect India's forest cover through plantation activities.
- A total of Rs. 982.34 crores has been allocated for eco-restoration in seventeen states and one union territory, Jammu & Kashmir.
- An additional Rs. 619.79 crores will be disbursed from FY 2020-21 to 2024-25 for GIM activities.
Financial Investment in Climate Initiatives:
- Approximately Rs. 118 crores utilized for activities under National Missions such as NMSHE and NMSKCC in the last five years.
National Solar Mission (NSM):
- Aims to position India as a global leader in solar energy, leading to the establishment of 116.25 GW capacity by June 2025.
- Budget estimates for solar energy between 2020 and 2025 include Rs. 38,420.82 crores (BE) and Rs. 31,483.86 crores (RE).
National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA):
- Introduced to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change on agriculture with the role of the National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA).
- An allocated budget of Rs. 242.71 crores was provided for NICRA, with Rs. 235.54 crores utilized to promote climate-resilient technologies.
National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE):
- Encompasses the Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) scheme which has covered 1,333 industrial units, saving 27.305 MTOE and reducing CO2 emissions by 116.54 million tonnes.
- The Financing Energy Efficiency Programme (FEEP) has identified projects worth Rs. 2,300 crores, with an outlay of Rs. 167 crores approved for 2021-2026.
National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH):
- Implemented across all 36 States/UTs focusing on health impacts due to climate change, with a budget allocation of Rs. 249.49 crores over five years.
Jal Shakti Abhiyan (JSA: CTR):
- Launched in 2021 to promote rainwater harvesting, providing grants for State-Specific Action Plans from the National Water Mission (NWM).
National Mission on Sustainable Habitat (NMSH):
- Implemented through flagship missions such as AMRUT, Swachh Bharat Mission, and Smart Cities Mission, with financial allocations fostering urban rejuvenation.
This structured approach by the government reflects a consolidated effort in enhancing climate resilience, promoting sustainable practices across various sectors, and engaging states in comprehensive strategies for climate adaptation and mitigation. These measures are critical for addressing the challenges posed by climate change and ensuring that vulnerable communities receive necessary support.
In addition, the efforts echo the commitment to sustainable development goals and international climate commitments made by India on global platforms.
Environment and Ecology