Odisha has achieved overall growth in forest size, but several tribal districts have experienced a decline in green cover. The India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023 reveals that Odisha’s forest size increased to 52,433.56 sq km in 2023 from 52,281.67 sq km in 2021, a growth of 151.89 sq km. The total forest and tree cover grew to 58,597.01 sq km in 2023, accounting for 37.63% of the state’s total geographical area.
Despite this growth, the report indicates that at least 12 districts, primarily tribal-dominated, have seen a reduction in forest cover. Kalahandi reported the highest decline, losing 61.94 sq km of forest cover. Other districts such as Keonjhar, Nabarangpur, Sundargarh, and Malkangiri also recorded significant losses.
Conversely, districts like Ganjam, Nuapada, and Koraput showed an increase in forest cover. The state now has a mangrove cover of 259.06 sq km, with Kendrapara holding the highest mangrove cover.
State forest officials attribute the overall growth in forest cover to large-scale plantation efforts, protection by forest field staff, and the involvement of over 16,000 Van Suraksha Samiti members. This growth is significant given the challenges posed by cyclones, forest fires, and other calamities.
