On July 2, 2025, Chief Minister Pema Khandu stated that Arunachal Pradesh is recognized as India’s largest carbon sink, accounting for 14.38 percent of the nation’s total carbon sequestration. He wrote this in a social media post in connection with the ‘PEMA 3.0: Year of Reforms and Growth‘ campaign, underlining the vital ecological function. Khandu stated that the work done by the state is significant for India to reach its net-zero emissions target by 2070. This contribution to the cause highlights Arunachal’s pivotal role in urgent climate action and the nation’s support for its climate goals.

Forest Cover and Carbon Stock

Arunachal Pradesh is recognized as India’s largest carbon sink, holding the largest carbon reserve in the country, with 1,021 million tonnes, due to its 79 percent forest cover, Khandu said. The state’s diverse forest wealth, encompassing tropical rainforests and alpine woodlands, absorbs significant amounts of atmospheric carbon dioxide. This process strengthens Arunachal’s position as an ecological powerhouse in the fight against climate change. It is vital for mitigating global warming, as it reinforces the state’s substantial contribution to environmental sustainability.

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Climate Challenges and Governance Initiatives

Khandu noted that Arunachal Pradesh is experiencing an increase in the effects of climate change, underscoring the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The state is essential to India’s efforts to achieve net-zero emissions, with its forests serving as the “lungs of the Himalayas.”

The chief minister’s statements were consistent with the governance initiative ‘PEMA 3.0‘, which anticipates sustainable development and structural reforms to strengthen the state’s plan for addressing national and international climate priorities. Khandu’s comments helped amplify the importance of the ecological benefits of Arunachal’s forests, which are vital to India’s journey towards net-zero emissions by 2070.

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