Andhra Pradesh Tops India in Forest Cover - P. V. Chalapathi Rao

According to the latest India State of Forest Report, Andhra Pradesh has secured the top position in the country in terms of forest cover, said Principal Chief Conservator of Forests P. V. Chalapathi Rao. Speaking at the Andhra Pradesh State Forest Academy in Rajanagaram of East Godavari district, he stated that nearly 30 percent of the state’s land area is covered with greenery, including 23 percent forest land and another 7 percent tree cover.

He said the government is taking planned measures to increase green cover to 37 percent by 2030 and 50 percent by 2047. Special focus is being given to plantation activities in Rayalaseema and the cultivation of palm trees that can withstand cyclones. The department is also preparing 2.5 crore seed balls to be dispersed with the help of drones during July as part of the afforestation drive.