In a significant review of forestry research and education, Union Environment and Forest Minister Bhupender Yadav chaired the 31st Annual General Meeting of the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) in Dehradun on Monday. The meeting took place at the Forest Research Institute campus and was attended by senior officials and members of the ICFRE Society.
During the session, the Annual Report and Audited Accounts for 2023–24 were presented and unanimously adopted by the Society for submission to both Houses of Parliament. The adoption of these reports marks an important step in ensuring accountability and transparency in the council’s functioning.
The Union Minister praised the work carried out by ICFRE and emphasised the need to ensure that its technologies and research outcomes reach end-users, particularly communities and industries that directly benefit from forestry innovations. He underlined that bridging the gap between research and practical application will strengthen ecological sustainability while also improving livelihoods dependent on forest resources.
On this occasion, Shri Yadav launched a new Soil Health Card Web Portal aimed at advancing soil quality monitoring and management. The portal is designed to assist stakeholders in tracking soil health, ensuring sustainable land use and supporting better agricultural and forestry practices.
The Minister also released four important ICFRE publications:
Cashing on Casuarina: High Yielding Varieties and New Cultivation Techniques
Extension Strategy of ICFRE 2025–30
A Compendium of Lesser-Known Forest Plants: Insights and Opportunities
Breeding Plans for Important Tree Species of India
These publications, officials noted, will serve as valuable resources for researchers, policymakers, farmers and forest managers. They provide updated insights on forestry techniques, biodiversity management and strategic planning for the sector.
Smt Kanchan Devi, Director General of ICFRE and Member Secretary of the ICFRE Society, welcomed the Union Minister and presented an overview of ongoing initiatives. She highlighted the council’s efforts in expanding forestry research, promoting innovation and addressing environmental challenges in line with national and global priorities.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to review progress on projects linked to climate resilience, sustainable forest management and conservation. The emphasis remained on integrating modern science with traditional knowledge systems to strengthen India’s forestry sector.
By adopting the annual report and accounts, and unveiling new initiatives, the ICFRE reaffirmed its commitment to playing a leading role in advancing forestry research and supporting India’s ecological and economic goals.
