Shimla: The Himalayan Forest Research Institute (HFRI), Shimla, under the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), successfully conducted a five-day training program on Plant Taxonomy and Economic Botany from December 2 to December 6, 2024.
The event, aimed at skill development for technical officers and staff from ICFRE's nine research institutes across India, emphasized the significance of understanding plant classification and the economic value of flora.
Dr. Vineet Jishtu, Scientist-E and Coordinator of the program, stated, “This training is part of ICFRE’s Human Resource Development initiative to enhance technical expertise in plant taxonomy and economic botany. Participants gained insights into the basics and history of taxonomy, essential for forestry research.”
Inaugurating the program, Dr. Sandeep Sharma, Director, HFRI, highlighted the critical role of Northwestern Himalayan flora, stating, “The Himalayan region serves as a lifeline, feeding perennial rivers like Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej. For forestry researchers, understanding and identifying vegetation across diverse regions is vital.”
The training featured lectures by experts. Dr. Anil Thakur, Principal of Government College, Nurpur, demonstrated herbarium preparation techniques, while Prof. Noornisha Begum from TDU Bengaluru introduced advanced herbarium methods.
Discussing the history of economic botany, retired Indian Forest Service officer Dr. G.S. Gauraya emphasized, “The demand for medicinal plants is increasing. It is crucial to gather and analyze data systematically.”
The program also included practical sessions. Dr. Ashwani Tapwal, Scientist, conducted hands-on training on fungal taxonomy in laboratories.
“We aim to make taxonomy practical and relevant for day-to-day research,” he remarked. Participants toured HFRI’s laboratories and technology demonstration center to learn about ongoing research and innovative technologies.
Field visits to Hatu Forest in Narkanda and the Northwestern Himalayan Botanic Garden in Potter Hill provided participants with practical exposure to regional vegetation.
Dr. Swarn Lata, a scientist at HFRI, trained participants in developing People’s Biodiversity Registers, while Dr. Ashwani Kumar discussed data collection techniques for non-timber forest products.
Dr. Vineet Jishtu also shared insights on the traditional knowledge of plants in cold deserts and the significance of Himachal’s non-timber forest products. “Traditional knowledge is a treasure trove that complements modern research,” he added.
During the valedictory session, participants lauded the training for its practical approach and interactive discussions. Experts addressed queries, ensuring clarity and application in the field.
The training concluded with a promise that the participants would utilize their newfound knowledge to enhance forestry research and practices in their respective regions.
