January 25, 2025
Introduction:
Forest in India have reached alarming levels. Recent data reveals that over five fire seasons, the country faced more than 1.1 million incidents. The period from November to June sees a surge in these fires, impacting ecosystems, wildlife, and local communities. As global attention shifts to wildfires in places like Los Angeles, India grapples with its own silent crisis.
Current Situation
- The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change reported that Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Maharashtra are the most affected states.
- Together, they account for nearly 43% of all forest fires in India. Andhra Pradesh also reported incidents, contributing to nearly half of the total fires in recent years.
- Other states like Telangana, Uttarakhand, and Jharkhand are also facing challenges, with each recording over 50,000 incidents.
Forest Cover and Vulnerability
- India’s total forest and tree cover stands at approximately 827,357 square kilometres.
- This represents about 25.17% of the country’s geographical area.
- The mangrove cover is recorded at 4,992 square kilometres. Madhya Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh have the largest forest areas.
- However, the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2021 indicates that over 36% of this cover is vulnerable to fires, with a portion classified as extremely fire-prone.
Impact on Livelihoods
Forests play important role in the livelihoods of around 275 million rural Indians. Many communities depend on forests for Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) and essential ecological services. The destruction caused by forest fires threatens their sustenance and economic security.
Causes of Forest Fires
Several factors contribute to the increasing frequency of forest fires. Unsustainable exploitation of resources and rising human activities are threats. The collection of tendu leaves and mahua flowers in central and eastern India is a major cause. Shifting cultivation practices also affect around 4.35 million hectares of forest land. While fire can play a natural role in forest regeneration, the negative consequences often overshadow these benefits.