India actively participated in the 20th Session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF20)

India has made significant strides in forest conservation and sustainable forest management, as demonstrated at the 20th session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF20) held in New York from May 5 to 9, 2025. India emphasized its commitment to global environmental goals, showcasing progress in forest and tree cover expansion, as well as its role in fostering international collaboration for the conservation of big cats. This session also provided India an opportunity to invite other countries to join its International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) and strengthen global forest conservation efforts.

Why in News?

India’s participation in the UNFF20 is of global significance, especially given the country’s efforts in achieving sustainability goals set under the United Nations Strategic Plan for Forests 2017-2030. The focus on big cat conservation and forest restoration initiatives highlights India’s leadership in environmental governance.

Key Achievements Highlighted by India at UNFF20

Increase in Forest and Tree Cover

• India’s forest and tree cover has reached 25.17% of the country’s geographical area, based on the latest India State of Forest Report.
• Key national initiatives include the Aravalli Green Wall project, a 7.86% increase in mangrove cover, and 1.55 lakh hectares of land afforested under the Green India Mission.

Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam (Plant4Mother) Campaign

• 1.4 billion seedlings planted as part of a national campaign aimed at environmental restoration.

International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

• India extended an invitation to all UN Member States to join the IBCA, a global platform focused on the conservation of seven big cat species.

Global Collaboration on Forest Fire Management

• India called for action on the outcomes of the Country-Led Initiative (CLI) focused on forest fire management and certification.

Restoring Degraded Forest Landscapes

• A side event showcased India’s approach to sustainable forest management, integrating policy innovation, community engagement, and technology.

Ecosystem Valuation in Forest Governance

• India presented findings from pilot studies in Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, and tiger reserves, emphasizing the need to incorporate ecosystem valuation into national planning.