Patna: Forestry College in Munger to Focus on Research and Indigenous Species Development

Chirag Gupta

Patna: In a review meeting chaired by Dr. Prem Kumar, the Department of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change directed officers to ensure the improvement of education and research at the Bihar Forestry College and Research Institute, Munger. Key decisions included developing and improving tree species such as Malabar Neem (Melia Dubia), Chah (Acacia Lenticularis), and Shisham (Dalbergia Sissoo), with a focus on addressing the declining popularity of these species due to the unavailability of improved clones and issues of wilting after plantation.

Research and extension work will be conducted in collaboration with the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education, Dehradun, and the Institute of Forest Productivity, Ranchi. The college will also focus on identifying other indigenous species, like mahogany and teak, which could offer more benefits to farmers, promoting agroforestry and contributing to the state’s forest resources.

Bihar, being an agricultural state, holds vast potential for the establishment of agroforestry and wood-based industries. The Bihar Forestry College is instrumental in providing global-standard education and research, aimed at producing skilled manpower to meet the demands of forest resource production, processing, and conservation. The development of a trained workforce in these fields will play a crucial role in strengthening the rural economy.

Affiliated with Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, the institute will offer a range of courses such as undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and short-term programs, all recognized by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The aim is to enhance employment opportunities in forestry and related sectors, ensuring a brighter future for those trained at the institution.

During the meeting, it was emphasized that this initiative will not only benefit students and government workers but also farmers and NGO members across the state. The strategy is expected to have a widespread impact, providing direct benefits to the general public through improved forestry practices and increased employment opportunities in rural areas.