- The NGT directs FSI to file a comprehensive report on loss of forest cover since the year 2000.
- NGT cites a media report that claims a 6% decrease in tree cover
- The report was attributed to Global Forest Watch, which tracks changes in forests
- Five northeastern states accounted for 60% of the overall reduction in tree cover from 2001 to 2023.
• It also reported that 4.1% of the humid primary forest decreased between 2002 and 2023.
• NGT claims the report to be a carbon sink and source and relies upon data from the UN’s Food and - Agriculture Organization stating that between 2015 and 2020, the deforestation rate of India was 3,668,000 ha annually.
- The tribunal directed FSI to furnish reports regarding the status of forest cover in the country since the year 2000.
