Archive · 21 Aug 2025
Haryana Defines Forest, Raising Aravalli Protection Concerns
The Haryana government is clarifying what counts as a forest, following a court order.
To be considered a forest, land needs many trees (40% coverage) and a certain size.
Some worry this will prevent certain areas, especially in the Aravalli hills, from being protected.
They think the rules are too strict, because trees grow slowly in the Aravallis.
This might allow building and mining in areas that should be protected.
Haryana government defines 'forest' based on Supreme Court rulings.
Definition requires 40% canopy density and minimum area of 5 hectares (isolated) or 2 hectares (contiguous).
The definition excludes linear and agro-forestry plantations outside government forests.
Environmentalists express concerns the definition excludes areas from protection.
The Supreme Court directed states to define forests and survey forest-like areas.
- Who
- Haryana government, environmentalists, and the Supreme Court.
- What
- Haryana government's definition of a 'forest' based on canopy density and area requirements.
- When
- The notification was issued on August 18th.
- Where
- Haryana, particularly impacting the Aravalli hills.
- Why
- To comply with a Supreme Court directive and clarify what areas qualify as forests.
Environmentalists' Concerns
Government's Position
Canopy Density Threshold
Environmentalists' Concerns
The canopy density threshold is too high, potentially excluding areas from protection.
Government's Position
The government's definition may be aligned with judicial expectations.
Minimum Area Threshold
Environmentalists' Concerns
The minimum area thresholds are too high, particularly for the Aravalli hills.
Government's Position
The government's definition could facilitate the creation of a consolidated record of land.
- Canopy Density Requirement
- 40% minimum
- Minimum Area (Isolated)
- 5 hectares
- Minimum Area (Contiguous)
- 2 hectares
- Exemptions
- Linear/agro-forestry plantations and orchards
