SHIMLA: Himalayan Forest Research Institute (HFRI), the Himalayan Research Group(HRG) have joined hands to advance forestry research through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed here recently. The MoU was signed by the respective Directors of the two institutes.

Dr. Sandeep Sharma, Director, HFRI, Shimla  said their institute, a part of the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), Dehradun, is dedicated to national-level forestry research under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India.

The institute focuses on forestry research, education, and extension in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh, Dr Sharma said.

Dr. Lal Singh, Director, HRG, who is Jamnalal Bajaj Awardee,  said organization's mission is to enhance economic prosperity in local communities using environmentally friendly methods and scientific innovations.

By involving people actively, the organization focuses on rural livelihoods, biodiversity preservation, climate change mitigation, and overall community development in the challenging Himalayan region, Singh said.

"Their success lies in promoting technology models relevant to rural communities, developed with support from national and international agencies".

Both institute directors expressed optimism that the MoU would foster collaboration in eco-friendly practices, scientific innovations, and technology sharing.

They aim to drive economic growth in local communities while safeguarding the region's natural environment.