Importance of Forests | Gist of Rajya Sabha TV / RSTV (now Sansad TV) - UPSC PDF Download

Introduction

• Imagining a world without trees and plants highlights the critical role they play in sustaining life on Earth.
• Rampant deforestation threatens habitats, leading to potential extinctions and ecological imbalances.

Importance of Forests

Forests and terrestrial ecosystems are vital for biodiversity, communities, and essential ecosystem services.

They contribute to poverty reduction, economic growth, and provide numerous benefits:

• Absorption of greenhouse gases to mitigate climate change.
• Provision of clean water, protection of watersheds, and prevention of erosion.
• Supply of food, medicine, and habitat for a vast array of species.
• Role in disaster mitigation and as a carbon sink to combat climate change.

Efforts by the government include initiatives like National Afforestation Programme and Green India Mission.

Efforts by the Government

• National Afforestation Programme (NAP), National Mission for a Green India (GIM), and Forest Fire Prevention & Management Scheme (FFPM) are key initiatives.
• Green India Mission aims to enhance forest cover and quality over a specified period.
• Various programs like urban forestry, catchment treatments, and LiDAR surveys are being implemented.
• Joint forest management (JFM) and funds allocation under CAMPA are crucial for afforestation.

Other Measures Needed

• India should reassess forestry programs, moving away from monoculture plantations to preserve biodiversity.
• Scientific reforms and community-led initiatives can aid in forest regeneration and protection.
• Innovative solutions like Tree Ambulance in Tamil Nadu should be replicated nationwide.
• Actions to reduce dependencies on forests and increase surveillance are essential.

Conclusion

• India's forests support millions of livelihoods and play a crucial role in meeting environmental goals.
• Revamping forest policies is necessary to ensure sustainable forest management and conservation.