NHAI Releases First Annual Report on National Highways – Green Cover Index (NH-GCI) for 2025-26

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has released its first Annual Report on the National Highways Green Cover Index (NH-GCI) for 2025-26. This report is crucial for UPSC aspirants as it aligns with GS Paper 3, focusing on environmental sustainability and infrastructure development. Last Updated: 10-03-2026

Key Facts About NH-GCI

• The NH-GCI is a quantitative assessment tool for green cover along National Highways.
• Developed in collaboration with the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) of ISRO.
• Uses advanced space-based technologies to assess green cover within the Right of Way (RoW).
• Covers approximately 30,000 km of National Highways across 24 states in its first cycle.
• Aligns with India’s Green Highways Policy, 2015.
• Future enhancements include machine learning and carbon sequestration models.

India's Environmental Sustainability Goals

The NH-GCI is significant at a macro level as it contributes to India's broader environmental sustainability goals. By ensuring green cover along highways, it supports India's strategic objectives of reducing carbon footprint and promoting ecological balance. This initiative enhances India's global standing in sustainable infrastructure development, aligning with international environmental standards.

UPSC Relevance

The NH-GCI is relevant for GS Paper 3 under the topics of environment and infrastructure. For the Prelims, questions could focus on the definition and objectives of the NH-GCI, its technological aspects, and its alignment with national policies. In the Mains, it could serve as a case study for essays on sustainable development and environmental policies.

FAQ Section

• What is the NH-GCI? The NH-GCI is an index that measures the green cover along India's National Highways using advanced satellite technology.
• Why is the NH-GCI important? It is important because it provides a quantitative measure of environmental sustainability along highways, aiding in policy implementation and monitoring.
• What are the key features of the NH-GCI? Key features include its use of high-resolution satellite sensors, coverage of 30,000 km of highways, and alignment with the Green Highways Policy, 2015.