India, the seventh-largest country globally, occupies 2.4% of the world’s geographical area yet supports 16% of its population, reflecting immense pressure on its land resources. With per capita arable land declining from 0.15 ha to an anticipated 0.09 ha by 2075, land degradation poses a severe threat to sustainability. The country is vulnerable to soil erosion, biodiversity loss, and habitat destruction due to anthropogenic activities like urbanization, industrialization, and deforestation. Restoring degraded ecosystems is crucial for mitigating climate impacts, preserving biodiversity, and sustaining ecosystem services essential for human well-being. Aligned with the National Forest Policy (NFP) of 1988, India has undertaken significant afforestation initiatives, including a pledge under the Bonn Challenge to restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030. However, this represents only 1.5% of India’s degraded land, indicating the need for enhanced efforts. Current interventions focus on Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) targets across 15 states, with innovative approaches like agroforestry and Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) driving restoration efforts. Agroforestry, in particular, offers a promising solution by converting wastelands into productive landscapes, enhancing biodiversity, and supporting rural economies. Despite progress, challenges persist, including fragmented scientific knowledge and limited private sector and nongovernmental organization (NGO) involvement. Comprehensive assessments and cross-sectoral collaboration are critical to addressing land degradation effectively. Integrating scientific expertise, local knowledge, and practical technology can ensure sustainable land management and restoration. India’s commitment to ecological restoration is a cornerstone for achieving global environmental goals and securing a healthier, more resilient future.