India highlights forest achievements at UNFF20, invites nations to join International Big Cat Alliance
At the 20th session of the United Nations Forum on Forests in New York (5–9 May 2025), India reported forest and tree cover of 25.17% of its geographical area and invited all UN Member States to join the International Big Cat Alliance.
Summary
India took part in the 20th session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF20) at UN Headquarters, New York, from 5 to 9 May 2025. It reported forest and tree cover of 25.17% of its geographical area as per the latest India State of Forest Report, a 7.86% rise in mangrove cover over the past decade, afforestation of over 1.55 lakh hectares under the Green India Mission and 1.4 billion seedlings planted under Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam. India invited all UN Member States to join the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), which covers the seven big cat species. It also recalled the Country-Led Initiative it hosted in Dehradun in October 2023.
Key facts
- Session
- UNFF20, New York, 5–9 May 2025
- Forest and tree cover
- 25.17% of geographical area
- Mangroves
- +7.86% over the past decade
- Green India Mission
- 1.55 lakh ha+ afforested
- Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam
- 1.4 billion seedlings
- IBCA
- All UN Member States invited; seven big cats
Practice MCQs 2 questions
As reported by India at UNFF20, what share of India's geographical area is under forest and tree cover?
Show answer
Correct answer: C — 25.17%
India reported forest and tree cover of 25.17% of its geographical area as per the latest India State of Forest Report.
Consider the following statements about India at UNFF20: 1. India invited all UN Member States to join the International Big Cat Alliance. 2. India recalled the Country-Led Initiative it hosted in Dehradun in October 2023. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Show answer
Correct answer: C — Both 1 and 2
Both are correct; the Dehradun initiative focused on forest fire management and forest certification.