The correct option is 2 only.
Explanation
In India, land use records are maintained by the Land Revenue Department. It is crucial to distinguish between Forest Area (land classified as forest in government records) and Forest Cover (actual aerial extent of forest vegetation). The National Forest Policy sets benchmarks for ecological balance.
Statement 1 is Incorrect: The National Forest Policy (1952) recommended that 33% of the country's geographical area should be under forests to maintain ecological balance. Currently, the recorded forest area is approximately 23-24%, and the actual forest cover is roughly 21.7%. Thus, the ecological benchmark has not yet been met.
Statement 2 is Correct: Forests play a critical role in the rural economy. They provide essential resources such as firewood, fodder, and minor forest produce, supporting the livelihood of millions of people, particularly tribal communities living on forest fringes.
Statement 3 is Incorrect: According to land use data, the increase in forest area since 1960-61 has been marginal, not substantial. The area under forest has increased from approximately 18.11% in 1950-51 to about 23.3% in recent years. This increase is relatively small over six decades and is often attributed to the administrative reclassification of land rather than a massive expansion of actual forest cover.
Key Takeaway: There is a distinction between Forest Area (administrative classification) and Forest Cover (natural vegetation). While Forest Area has seen a marginal increase, it remains significantly below the 33% target set by the National Forest Policy.