In a resounding step toward combating climate change and restoring ecological balance, Chhattisgarh has witnessed a significant increase in green cover through its ambitious afforestation drives. These efforts are transforming barren landscapes, rejuvenating wildlife habitats, and empowering local communities.

Key Initiatives Behind the Green Success

• Statewide Plantation Programs:
  The Chhattisgarh government, under the Hariyali Prayas initiative, has planted over 12 crore saplings across the state in 2025 alone. Focus areas include degraded forests, urban green belts, and riverbanks.
  (Chhattisgarh Forest Department)
• Community Participation:
  The Van Mahotsav campaign actively engaged farmers, schoolchildren, and tribal communities in planting efforts, with over 10 lakh participants contributing to the green mission.
• Focus on Native Species:
  Priority is given to planting native tree species like sal, teak, and mahua to restore local ecosystems and support biodiversity.

Measurable Impact of Afforestation Drives

• Increase in Green Cover:
  According to the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2025, Chhattisgarh’s forest cover has increased by 3.4%, adding approximately 1,200 sq km of green area. This ranks the state among the top contributors to India’s reforestation goals.
  (Forest Survey of India)
• Carbon Sequestration:
  The plantations are projected to sequester over 1.5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually, significantly contributing to India’s climate goals under the Paris Agreement.

Ecological and Economic Benefits

• Reviving Wildlife Habitats:
  Restored green areas have provided critical habitats for wildlife, including species like leopards, sloth bears, and native birds, ensuring a balanced ecosystem.
• Livelihood Opportunities:
  The afforestation efforts have created over 20,000 jobs for local communities, including roles in planting, monitoring, and maintaining forest areas.
• Water Conservation:
  Increased tree cover has enhanced soil moisture retention, reducing erosion and improving groundwater recharge in drought-prone districts like Bastar and Surguja.

Future Goals and Challenges

• Target for 2030:
  Chhattisgarh aims to increase its forest cover to 45% of the total geographical area by 2030, focusing on degraded forests and urban areas.
• Sustaining Progress:
  Challenges include ensuring high survival rates of saplings and addressing threats like forest fires and illegal logging, requiring advanced monitoring systems and stricter enforcement.

A Greener Tomorrow for Chhattisgarh

Chhattisgarh’s afforestation drives stand as a beacon of hope, proving that dedicated efforts can reverse environmental degradation. By uniting government initiatives with community participation, the state is setting a green example for others to follow.