India’s Forest Service marks 60 years of conservation
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In India, the Indian Forest Service celebrated its 60th anniversary on July 1, 2024, building on a history that began in 1864 with Sir Dietrich Brandis’s appointment as the first Inspector General of Forests.
The service evolved from managing forests for timber to prioritizing habitat protection, a shift championed by figures like Jim Corbett who helped establish India’s first National Park in 1936. This evolution culminated in the 1966 formalization of the service as a dedicated ecological governance body.
India has balanced a large population and livestock numbers with successful conservation efforts. Despite using 2.2% of the world’s land and supporting 18% of its people, India ranks ninth globally in total forest area and third in annual forest cover gains, now covering 25.17% of the country. This expanding forest cover helps India work towards its 2070 net zero carbon emissions goal, planning to absorb an additional 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of CO2 by 2030.
The service’s approach shifted further with the 1988 National Forest Policy, which prioritized ecological balance over industrial profits and led to the creation of Joint Forest Management in 1990. This program shares forest benefits with local communities, fostering coexistence rather than conflict. Legal frameworks like the Indian Forest Act of 1927 and subsequent legislation, along with a 1996 Supreme Court ruling, have strengthened the service’s ability to protect forests and recognize the rights of traditional forest dwellers.
Modern tools like the M-STrIPES platform and increased inclusivity with women comprising nearly 20% of new recruits also contribute to the service’s ongoing success.
