India's Forest Land Diversion: Development or Deforestation?

India has diverted 1,734 square kilometers of forest land for development over 10 years, primarily for infrastructure projects. States like Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Telangana contributed significantly to this figure. Despite this, the overall forest cover in India has reportedly increased over the last decade.

According to government data, India has diverted 1,734 square kilometers of forest land over a decade, surpassing the total area of Delhi for development purposes.

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav cited figures in parliament revealing that 1.73 lakh hectares of forest land had been cleared for infrastructure and other non-forest use from 2014-15 to 2023-24.

Madhya Pradesh led the diversion with 385.52 square kilometers, while other states like Odisha and Telangana also contributed to the significant loss, raising concerns over the environmental impact amid reports of increased forest cover nationwide.

(With inputs from agencies.)