Enhanced Collaboration Between Forest Department and Nauni University Urged

Nauni, Himachal Pradesh – Rajiv Kumar, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force (HOFF), Himachal Pradesh, emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between the State Forest Department and Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni. Speaking at an interactive session with the faculty of the College of Forestry at the university’s main campus in Nauni, Kumar highlighted the potential for academic contributions from the university to develop the forestry sector.

Addressing the audience, Kumar specifically called for research collaboration to address forest fires, particularly during summer months. He encouraged the university to explore innovative approaches for utilizing pine needles to produce pine peat and compost for agricultural purposes. Additionally, he sought the university’s expertise in developing high-quality planting materials and tissue culture protocols for hard to raise forest plants.

The meeting also covered topics such as ecotourism, training programs for officials and villagers in forest fringe areas, and strategies to control invasive plant species. Dr. Chaman Lal Thakur, Dean of the College of Forestry, provided a comprehensive overview of the university’s ongoing initiatives in the forestry sector.

During a separate address to undergraduate and postgraduate forestry students, Kumar discussed various challenges and opportunities in the forestry sector. He also planted a deodar tree in the university. The event was attended by Dr. Inder Dev, Director of Extension Education, Dr. Manish Sharma, Dean of the College of Horticulture, Dr. HP Sankhyan, Librarian, and heads of departments from the College of Forestry, along with faculty.