India’s green transformation gains momentum through conservation and climate action
New Delhi: India’s green transformation has delivered major gains in forest cover, biodiversity conservation, river restoration and climate action over the past 12 years, according to a report released by the Centre highlighting environmental achievements under the themes of Vishwaas, Nirman and Jan Kalyaan.
The report said India expanded its forest and tree cover to 8.27 lakh square kilometres, accounting for 25.17 percent of the country’s geographical area. Forests now store an estimated 30.43 billion tonnes of carbon stock, strengthening climate resilience and ecological security.
The government highlighted large-scale restoration efforts through the Green India Mission, CAMPA and Nagar Van Yojana. It also noted that the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign led to the planting of more than 262 crore saplings by December 2025.
River conservation remained a major focus through the Namami Gange Programme. Authorities sanctioned 524 projects worth ₹43,030 crore and completed 355 projects aimed at reducing pollution and restoring the ecological health of the Ganga and its tributaries.
India’s green transformation boosts biodiversity and resilience
The report highlighted significant progress in wildlife conservation. India’s tiger population increased to 3,682 in 2022, while the number of tiger reserves rose to 58. The Asiatic lion population reached 891 in 2025, and the country’s one-horned rhinoceros population crossed 4,000.
Wetland and coastal conservation also expanded. India increased its Ramsar sites from 26 in 2014 to 99 by April 2026. Mangrove cover grew from 4,628 square kilometres in 2013 to 4,992 square kilometres in 2023. The country also increased the number of Blue Flag-certified beaches to 18.
The report said India strengthened waste management systems by increasing solid waste processing from 17 percent in 2014 to more than 77 percent in 2024. Authorities also cleared millions of tonnes of legacy waste through large-scale remediation projects.
On climate commitments, the Centre said India achieved its target of reducing emissions intensity by 33-35 percent from 2005 levels ahead of schedule. Non-fossil fuel sources now account for more than 52 percent of the country’s installed power capacity.
The report also highlighted India’s leadership in global environmental initiatives, including the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, Mission LiFE and the International Big Cat Alliance. It said these efforts have strengthened India’s role in global climate and sustainability discussions while supporting long-term economic growth and environmental security
