Role of Forest-based Industry in relation to Indian Economy Forest based industries play a vital role in the Indian economy, as they provide employment, income, and foreign exchange earnings to millions of people. Forest based industries include timber, paper, pulp, furniture, rubber, resin, lac, bamboo, and other minor forest products. These industries contribute to the conservation and sustainable management of forest resources, as well as to the development of rural and tribal areas. Forest based industries also have a positive impact on the environment, as they help in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing biodiversity, and maintaining ecological balance. According to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the total value of forest products in India was Rs. 1.7 lakh crore inPreview 2018-19, which accounted for about 1.1% of the GDP. Forest based industries also generated an export revenue of Rs. 23,447 crore in 2018-19, which was about 2.5% of the total mer