Chhattisgarh Becomes the First State in India to Initiate Ecosystem Valuation for Green GDP
Raipur >> Chhattisgarh has become the first state in the country to initiate the integration of forest ecosystem services with Green GDP. This initiative aims to measure the comprehensive value of ecosystem services, which will highlight the state’s sustainable development efforts.
Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sahay mentioned that the Chhattisgarh government is preparing a vision document aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Vision for a Developed India by 2047 and the Sustainable Development Goals, which includes the concept of evaluating ecosystem services run by the Forest Department. This holistic approach underscores the state’s commitment to balancing environmental conservation with economic progress, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for coming generations. Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap stated that ecosystem valuation will not only streamline budgetary planning but also guide future strategies, make fund allocation more effective, and empower forestry development efforts. This process will be a significant step towards sustainable development and better resource management.
It is notable that Chhattisgarh’s Joint Forest Management Program has empowered local communities. With national parks like Guru Ghasidas, Kanger Valley, and Indravati, Chhattisgarh offers immense potential for nature-based tourism. Local residents are actively involved in managing activities like jungle safaris, nature trails, and eco-camping, which has not only boosted socio-economic development but also strengthened environmental conservation efforts. Forty-four percent of Chhattisgarh’s land area is covered by forests, forming a strong base for the rural economy and playing a crucial role in the livelihoods of millions. These forests provide various direct and indirect benefits, many of which are often overlooked or not properly evaluated. These services include carbon absorption for climate balance, pollination essential for agriculture, nutrient cycling, soil fertility improvement, and biodiversity conservation. Forests also play a key role in flood and disease control, water flow management, and reducing the risk of vector-borne diseases.
Additionally, forests facilitate water replenishment and purification, improve air quality by providing pure oxygen, and offer recreational benefits and emotional satisfaction through beautiful natural landscapes and biodiversity-rich areas. These forests have significant spiritual and religious importance as they preserve tribal heritage and traditions through sacred sites and deity shrines. Furthermore, the forests of Chhattisgarh are the source of numerous rivers, supporting sustainable water flow, watershed conservation, and enriching the soil with organic matter essential for agriculture and livelihoods. The direct benefits from these forests have a significant economic impact on the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). All these benefits promote rural industries and livelihoods and contribute significantly to the state’s economic development.
