Mod 4: Forest Resources & Forestry Sector Growth

Forests are foundational components of ecological equilibrium, blanketing nearly 30 percent of the Earth's total land area. They play an irreplaceable role in preserving livelihoods, driving economic stability, moderating microclimates, replenishing aquifers, and mitigating the adverse hazards of global climate change.

Sal Forests Distribution:

• Bihar is endowed with valuable deciduous Sal forests. According to the state's official Climate Action Plan, mixed moist deciduous Sal forests are predominantly concentrated in West Champaran and are partially distributed across the valleys of the southern hilly districts.
• These forest ecosystems provide vital non-timber forest produce (NTFP), soil conservation mechanisms, and specialized natural habitats.

Economic Growth in Forestry & Logging:

• Between 2011-12 and 2023-24, the contribution of forestry and logging to the Gross State Value Added (GSVA) at constant (2011-12) prices registered a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10.7 percent.
• The sector's economic output rose from Rs 4,187 crore in 2011-12 to Rs 13,549 crore in 2023-24.
• In 2023-24, forestry contributed approximately 7 percent to the agricultural sector GSVA and nearly 2 percent to the state's overall aggregate GSVA.