Trees and population: a half-century analysis of per capita forest and tree cover availability in India"

This study examines the trends in per capita forest and tree cover availability in India over the past 50 years, focusing on the interplay between deforestation, afforestation efforts, and population growth. From 1987 to 2021, India has experienced significant changes in land use, driven by urbanization, agriculture, and industrialization, contributing to a decline in forest cover. Despite these challenges, various government initiatives, such as the National Afforestation Programme and the Green India Mission, have aimed to increase tree cover and promote sustainable forestry practices. Using data from the Forest Survey of India (FSI) and demographic statistics, the analysis reveals fluctuating trends in per capita tree availability, with an overall decline until the early 2000s, followed by gradual recovery in recent years due to increased afforestation efforts. However, the growing population continues to exert pressure on forest resources, complicating conservation efforts. The study underscores that India’s rising population and the corresponding demand for resources have significantly impacted forest and tree cover. From 1987 to 2021, the per capita availability of forests steadily decreased, reflecting broader environmental strain due to population growth. The per capita availability of forest and tree cover declined from approximately 0.0785 hectares per person in 1987 to 0.0575 hectares in 2021, highlighting the widening gap between forest resources and population growth.