As we mark the International Day of Forests, India under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, is increasing its forest cover by promoting afforestation and strengthening forest conservation in diverse landscapes, Union Minister for Environment, Forests and Climate Change Shri Bhupender Singh Yadav said.
The forest is not a mere resource to be exploited. It is life itself to be protected and preserved. On International Day of Forests, let us pledge to protect our forests and thereby protect the life our forests sustain. On this occasion, the Minister called for a ‘pledge’ to protect our forests and thereby protect the life our forests sustain.
While the forest area in India stood at 7,01,673 sq km in 2014, it has currently risen to 7,15,342 sq km, according to the government’s latest estimates. This signifies that forest cover has expanded by 13,669 sq km over the past 12 years.
Forests are vital ecosystems that regulate climate, support biodiversity, and sustain livelihoods, making their protection increasingly important amid growing environmental challenges.
Every year on March 21, people around the world observe the International Day of Forests. This important day was officially declared on November 28, 2012, by the United Nations General Assembly to highlight the value of forests and trees for both present and future generations. It serves as a reminder that forests are essential for life on Earth.
Awareness Activities Across the World
To mark the occasion, countries organise various activities such as tree plantation drives, awareness campaigns, school programs, and community events. These initiatives take place at local, national, and international levels to educate people about the importance of forests. The Food and Agriculture Organization and the United Nations Forum on Forests help coordinate these efforts in collaboration with governments and global organisations. The first International Day of Forests was celebrated on March 21, 2013.
Theme – Forests and Economies
Each year, the day is observed with a specific theme. In 2026, the theme is “Forests and Economies,” which focuses on how forests contribute to livelihoods, employment, and economic growth. It highlights that forests are not just natural resources but also key drivers of economic stability.
Forests Matter More Than Ever
Forests are among the most valuable ecosystems on the planet. They help regulate the global climate, support biodiversity by providing habitats to countless species, and sustain human communities by offering food, fuel, shelter, and income. As environmental challenges like climate change continue to grow, the importance of forests has become even more evident. That is why March 21 is dedicated to celebrating and protecting forests worldwide.
Forests and Livelihoods
The theme for this day is selected every year by the Collaborative Partnership on Forests (CPF). In 2026, the focus is on the strong link between forests and economic systems. More than 1.6 billion people depend on forests for their daily needs. The forest sector provides around 13 million formal jobs and an additional 45–50 million jobs in informal and small-scale activities. Forests also act as a support system during crises such as economic downturns, conflicts, and climate-related disasters.
History
The idea of celebrating forests dates back to 1971, when member nations at a session of the Food and Agriculture Organization agreed to observe March 21 as “World Forestry Day.” Later, from 2007 to 2012, the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) organised “Forest Day” events alongside global climate conferences. Building on these efforts, the United Nations General Assembly officially established March 21 as the International Day of Forests in 2012.
Global Importance and Economic Impact
Forests play a crucial role in both environmental protection and economic growth. They are especially important for rural and forest-dependent communities, where they often serve as a primary source of income. Forests provide key ecosystem services such as climate regulation, water conservation, soil protection, and reducing the risk of natural disasters. These benefits also support sectors like agriculture, energy, and industry, strengthening global economies.
Challenges and the Way Forward
Despite their importance, forests are often undervalued in economic and policy decisions. They do not receive enough funding or attention. The investment needed to stop deforestation and forest degradation is still far below what is required. This highlights the urgent need for stronger action.
A Call for a Sustainable Future
The International Day of Forests is not just a celebration—it is a global call to action. It encourages individuals, communities, and governments to protect forests, increase investment, and use forest resources responsibly. By focusing on themes like “Forests and Economies,” the world is reminded that forests are essential for building a sustainable and resilient future.
