Report on Forest Diversion:
The Union Environment Ministry informed Lok Sabha that between 2014-15 and 2023-24, a total of 1,73,396.87 hectares of forest land has been diverted for non-forestry purposes, including infrastructure projects, under the Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam, 1980.
Total Diversion (2014-15 to 2023-24):
- 1,73,396.87 hectares of forest land diverted for non-forestry activities, including infrastructure development.
- Forest Land Diversion (2021-22 to 2023-24): 59,882.07 hectares diverted during the last three financial years.
- State-wise Data (2021-24): Madhya Pradesh saw the largest diversion: 14,157.02 hectares.
