<h1>Tripura tackles forest cover loss due to misapplication of Forest Rights Act; plans afforestation and bamboo initiatives.</h1> The Tripura government is addressing forest cover loss attributed to the incorrect implementation of the Recognition of Forest (Rights) Act, 2006. The state has experienced a net forest cover reduction of 95.31 sq km over two years, as reported by the Forest Survey of India. Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma emphasized the need for ground-level checks and awareness programs for forest dwellers to promote sustainable livelihoods. Factors contributing to the decline include unauthorized land use, rubber plantations, and shifting cultivation. Efforts are underway to increase forest cover through afforestation and promoting bamboo plantations.