Performance Audit of Green India Mission: Structural Bottlenecks and Policy Implementation Gaps

From a governance perspective, the report underscores the challenges of 'siloed' functioning within the bureaucracy. Environmental restoration requires seamless integration between forest departments, local self-government bodies, and community stakeholders. The CAG’s findings indicate that the absence of robust monitoring mechanisms and the failure to align financial outlays with site-specific requirements have rendered the mission's interventions largely ineffective. Furthermore, the report raises concerns regarding the utilization of funds, suggesting that fiscal constraints have directly impacted the quality and survival rates of afforestation efforts. For policymakers, this audit serves as a wake-up call to move beyond mere target-setting. It highlights the necessity of adopting an evidence-based approach to environmental management, where policy design is informed by rigorous impact assessments and adaptive management strategies. Addressing these gaps is crucial not only for meeting national climate commitments but also for ensuring the long-term resilience of India’s natural capital. UPSC Relevance: This issue is highly relevant for GS Paper III (Environment and Ecology) and GS Paper II (Governance). Aspirants can use this case study to discuss the challenges in implementing large-scale environmental policies, the importance of inter-departmental synergy, and the role of the CAG in ensuring accountability in public expenditure for sustainable development goals.