Which one of the following states has maximum forest area according to India State of Forest Report, 2021?

The correct answer is Chhattisgarh.

Key Points

• According to the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2021, Chhattisgarh has the maximum forest cover among Indian states.
• Chhattisgarh has a total forest cover of approximately 56,000 square kilometers, which constitutes around 41.18% of its geographical area.
• The state has seen an increase in forest cover by about 18 square kilometers compared to the previous assessment in 2019.
• Chhattisgarh's forests are rich in biodiversity and include significant areas of dense forests.

Additional Information

• India State of Forest Report (ISFR)
  • It is a biennial publication by the Forest Survey of India (FSI), an organization under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
  • The ISFR assesses the forest and tree cover of the country to provide a comprehensive picture of the status and changes in forest cover.
  • It includes detailed information on forest types, density, and the extent of area under different forest categories.
• Forest Cover Categories
  • Very Dense Forest: All lands with a canopy density of 70% and above.
  • Moderately Dense Forest: All lands with a canopy density of 40% to 70%.
  • Open Forest: All lands with a canopy density of 10% to 40%.
  • Scrub: All lands with a canopy density less than 10%.
• Forest Survey of India (FSI)
  • Established in 1981, FSI is responsible for conducting forest surveys and assessments in India.
  • It provides information on forest resources for sustainable management and planning.
  • FSI uses satellite data, field surveys, and other advanced technologies for its assessments.
• Biodiversity in Chhattisgarh
  • Chhattisgarh's forests are home to diverse flora and fauna, including endangered species like the Bengal tiger and the Indian leopard.
  • The state has several protected areas, including national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, that contribute to conservation efforts.
  • Major forest types in Chhattisgarh include tropical moist deciduous and tropical dry deciduous forests.