Home / Environment / India Eases Forest Rules: Land Leased for Plantations
India Eases Forest Rules: Land Leased for Plantations
12 Feb
Summary
- India eased forest land leasing for commercial plantations last month.
- India ranks 9th globally in total forest area, 3rd in net gain.
- Non-forest areas are expanding, raising significant concerns.
Forests provide vital ecological services, including biodiversity support, water source sustainability, and carbon sequestration. Last month, India's Union Environment Ministry revised guidelines under the Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam, 2023. These changes permit government and non-government entities to lease forest land for various 'forestry activities,' such as commercial plantations and restoration efforts.
This policy shift signifies a change in India's forest management approach, as forests are primarily considered public property. Globally, India holds the 9th position for total forest area and ranks third in net annual forest area gain, according to the FAO's 2025 Global Forest Resources Assessment report.
However, concerns are rising due to the expansion of non-forest areas. Analysis of the India State of Forests Report 2023 indicates a decrease in Very Dense Forest, Moderately Dense Forest, and scrub areas, both within and outside recorded forest boundaries. This trend, coupled with an increase in non-forest areas, poses a significant challenge to conservation efforts.
