In recent months, a wave of optimism has swept across environmental headlines: India’s forest and tree cover has increased to 25.17% of its total geographical area , rising by 1,445 sq km since 2021 , according to the Global Forest Resources Assessment 2025  based on official national data. At first glance, this feels like a victory for climate action, conservation policy, and collective responsibility. 🌍✨ But beneath the celebration lies a crucial nuance that most headlines