India has risen to the 9th position globally in total forest area, as per the Global Forest Resources Assessment (GFRA) 2025 released by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Bali. The country also retains its 3rd rank worldwide in annual forest area gain, showcasing strong progress in sustainable forest management and ecological balance.
Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav shared the achievement, crediting the rise from 10th to 9th rank to the government’s effective forest conservation and afforestation policies under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Key initiatives include the ‘Ek Ped Ma Ke Naam’ campaign, which inspires citizens to plant trees in tribute to their mothers, strengthening community participation in environmental efforts.
