Chhattisgarh becomes first state in country for Green GDP

Raipur (Team Newsbuddy): Chhattisgarh has created a record on the eve of New Year. A big achievement has been achieved in the new year 2025. It has become the first state in the country to start an initiative to link forest ecosystem services with Green GDP. This will further the pace of development in Chhattisgarh by measuring the comprehensive value of ecosystem services.

Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai said that the Chhattisgarh government is preparing a vision document in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Developed India 2047 vision and Sustainable Development Goals, which includes the concept of evaluation of ecosystem services operated by the Forest Department. This holistic approach underlines the commitment to maintain a balance between environmental protection and economic progress in the state, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for generations to come.

Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap said that ecosystem services assessment will not only make budgetary planning more streamlined but also provide direction to future strategies, make fund allocation more effective and strengthen forestry development efforts. This process will prove to be an important step towards sustainable development and better management of resources.

The Joint Forest Management Programme in Chhattisgarh has further empowered local communities. With national parks like Guru Ghasidas, Kanger Ghati and Indravati, Chhattisgarh has immense potential for nature-based tourism. Local residents are being actively involved in the management of facilities like jungle safaris, nature trails and eco-camping, which has not only promoted socio-economic development but also strengthened environmental conservation efforts. 44 per cent of Chhattisgarh’s land area is covered by forest area. It is a strong base for the rural economy of the state and plays an important role in the livelihood of millions of people. These forests provide various direct and indirect benefits. Other important intangible benefits from forests are often neglected and not adequately valued.