Forest degradation in India poses a critical environmental challenge, impacting biodiversity, climate stability, and the livelihoods of millions dependent on forests. Driven by factors such as urbanization, industrial expansion, unsustainable agricultural practices, and illegal logging, this degradation leads to habitat fragmentation, soil erosion, diminished carbon sequestration, biodiversity loss, and compromised water resources, exacerbating climate change and increasing vulnerability to natural disasters. Iconic species like the Bengal tiger, Asiatic lion, and Indian elephant face intensified threats as their habitats shrink, while indigenous communities reliant on forest resources for cultural and economic sustenance are disproportionately affected. In response, India has adopted a multifaceted approach to conservation, with initiatives like the National Afforestation Programme (NAP) and the Green India Mission focusing on ecological restoration, community participation, and sustainable resource management. Legal frameworks such as the Forest Rights Act, 2006, empower local communities, and technological advancements like satellite monitoring enhance forest health surveillance. This chapter emphasizes the need for integrated strategies that balance development with ecological integrity, advocating for adaptive management practices and heightened community engagement to mitigate forest degradation and safeguard India’s ecological heritage.