India showcased forest and landscape restoration initiatives at COFO 28 in Rome.

On the platform of the international conference “Conference of Forest Officers (COFO 28)” held in Rome, India presented its key aspects of Forest and Landscape Restoration (FLR) in detail. The Indian delegation illustrated the work being carried out under several large‑scale national programmes such as the “National Forest Restoration Mission” and the “Green India Mission.” These initiatives employ community‑based models, public‑private partnerships, and science‑based technologies to enhance socio‑economic benefits, biodiversity conservation, water‑crisis solutions, and climate resilience.

Attendees included forest officers from various countries and representatives of international organisations who praised India’s experiences and sought new dimensions of cooperation. In particular, India highlighted the use of climate‑smart agriculture, forestry‑based water harvesting, and the latest digital tools for ecosystem‑service valuation. Through these technologies, not only has measuring the impact of restoration become easier, but sustainable economic models benefiting local communities have also been established.

India’s contribution to COFO 28 clarified that forest and landscape restoration is not only a means of environmental protection but has become a key pillar of social inclusion and economic development. At the conclusion of the conference, several countries expressed their intention to sign agreements with India for technical cooperation, knowledge sharing, and joint projects, which is expected to accelerate the achievement of FLR goals at the global level.