Van Mahotsav 2025: Fascinating Forest Facts You Should Know

Van Mahotsav, meaning "Festival of Forests," is celebrated every year in the first week of July across India to raise awareness about tree planting and forest conservation. Initiated in 1950 by Dr. M. S. Randhawa, this green campaign has grown into a nationwide movement. As we observe Van Mahotsav 2025 , it’s the perfect time to reflect on some amazing and lesser-known facts about forests—the lungs of our planet.

1. Forests Cover Nearly One-Third of Earth’s Land Area

Forests span over 31% of the Earth’s land surface, providing essential habitat for 80% of the planet’s terrestrial species.

2. India Has 75.83 Million Hectares of Forest Area

According to the Forest Survey of India (2023), India’s forest cover has been steadily increasing. Madhya Pradesh has the largest forest area, followed by Arunachal Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

3. Forests Produce Over 40% of the World’s Oxygen

Trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen during photosynthesis. A mature tree can produce enough oxygen for 2–10 people per year.

4. Forests Act as Natural Air Conditioners

Urban areas with trees can be 3–5°C cooler than surrounding regions. Forests regulate temperatures, reduce air pollution, and absorb harmful gases.

5. Deforestation Threatens More Than Climate

Beyond climate change, deforestation causes soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and disrupts rainfall patterns. Every minute, forests equivalent to 36 football fields are lost worldwide.

6. Forests Support the Livelihoods of Over 1.6 Billion People

Globally, about 20% of people depend directly on forests for food, shelter, medicine, and income.

7. Forest Fires Are Becoming More Frequent

Climate change has led to an increase in forest fires, destroying vast green areas. Awareness and forest-friendly behaviour are crucial during dry seasons.

8. India’s Sacred Groves Are Living Forest Temples

In states like Kerala, Meghalaya, and Himachal Pradesh, communities have preserved sacred groves for centuries—mini forests considered spiritually protected zones.

9. Forests Are Key to Fighting Global Warming

Trees act as carbon sinks, absorbing nearly 2.6 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide annually, making reforestation a critical climate solution.

10. Every Tree You Plant Makes a Difference

One tree can intercept up to 27,000 litres of rainwater annually, reduce storm runoff, and prevent floods. Tree-planting is a simple yet powerful action.

Van Mahotsav 2025 is not just about planting trees—it's about understanding why forests are vital to our survival. Whether it’s absorbing carbon, cooling cities, or supporting wildlife, forests are an irreplaceable part of Earth’s ecosystem. Let this Van Mahotsav inspire you to not only plant a tree but also protect and preserve the forests we already have.