The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) will strengthen the mechanism of interdisciplinary and inter-institutional approach in forestry research at national and international level.
Dr Ashwani Kumar, a 1980 batch Indian Forest Service officer of Uttar Pradesh cadre, said this after assuming charge as the director general of the council here on Thursday.
After joining as the ICFRE DG, Kumar stated that the council, an apex body in the national forestry research system, has been undertaking the holistic development of forestry research through need based planning, promotion, conduct and coordination of research, education and extension covering all aspects of forestry. The council deals with solution based forestry research in tune with the emerging issues in the sector, including global concerns such as climate change, conservation of biological diversity, combating desertification, sustainable management and development of resources. However, many more mile stones are yet to be achieved in forestry research arena, innovating new technologies and their implementation at the grass root level.
Kumar further stated that council will strengthen the mechanism of interdisciplinary and inter-institutional approach in forestry research at national and international levels. He further emphasised on the need for mega research and extension projects with international funding. He also extended greetings to the administrative, management and scientific fraternity of the country working in various sectors of forestry for development of India. He also assured good governance for betterment of the ICFRE and its employees.
Kumar has been awarded various degrees — MSc (Genetics) PhD (Genetics) AIFC, DSc in Forest Genetics and Tree Improvement, SFC (Oxford), MNASc, MNGS (USA) among others. He has vast experience at various posts in administration, research and extension including that of the Uttar Pradesh principal chief conservator of forests. Besides, he has also served in various capacities at different places including Mussoorie, Mainpuri, Tehri, Meerut, Kanpur, Gorakhpur, Allahabad and lucknow,among others.