The correct answer is: A. 9,663 sq km
According to the Forest Survey of India’s State of Forest Report 2019, Jharkhand has a total forest cover of 26,268 sq km, which is 24.4% of its geographical area. Of this, 9,663 sq km (36.8%) is under very dense forest cover.
The other options are incorrect because they do not represent the actual area of Jharkhand under very dense forest cover.
Option B: 2,598 sq km is the area of Jharkhand under moderately dense forest cover.
Option C: 11,227 sq km is the area of Jharkhand under open forest cover.
Option D: None of the above is the correct answer.