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Haryana has notified the dictionary meaning of “forest” as per Supreme Court directions.

Haryana defines ‘Forest’: Controversy and Implications

Haryana’s definition of Forest:

Definition: A patch of land is deemed a forest if:
- Minimum area: 5 hectares (isolated) or 2 hectares (contiguous with notified forest).
- Minimum canopy density: 0.4 (40%) or more.
Exclusions: Linear/compact/agro-forestry plantations and orchards outside government-notified forests.
Aim: Create a uniform standard for identifying forests under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 (FCA).

High thresholds:
- 40% canopy cover excludes scrub forests and dry deciduous vegetation like the Aravallis.
- 2–5 hectare size requirement too high for an arid state with fragmented green cover.
Exclusion of Aravallis: Sensitive ridge areas risk exposure to illegal mining, encroachment, and real estate development.
Contradiction with Godavarman judgment (1996): SC had ruled that “forest” must be understood in its dictionary meaning, regardless of size, ownership, or canopy density.
Dilution of protection under FCA 1980: Narrows the scope of land eligible for forest safeguards.

Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980: Restricted dereservation/diversion of forest land without Centre’s approval.
T N Godavarman v Union of India (1996): Court ruled “forest” must be understood in its dictionary meaning, covering all forested lands regardless of ownership or official status.
2023 FCA Amendment: Limited scope to notified forests and recorded forest lands.
- Amendment challenged by retired IFS officers and NGOs for diluting FCA protections.
SC in February 2024 directed States/UTs to continue using Godavarman definition while case is ongoing.

[UPSC 2005] The minimum land area recommended for forest cover to maintain proper ecological balance in India is

Options: (a) 0.25 (b) 0.33* (c) 0.43 (d) 0.53