Ranchi, July 7: A five-day training programme aimed at enhancing the professional skills of women forest guards has commenced at the Indian Institute of Forest Management (IIFM), Ranchi.
The initiative focuses on strengthening the capacity of frontline forest personnel to effectively protect forests and wildlife through modern techniques and practical training.
The training camp, scheduled from February 6 to 10, 2026, seeks to improve participants’ professional competence, physical preparedness, and technical expertise to address emerging challenges in forest conservation and wildlife protection.
The programme was inaugurated by Institute Director Dr. Amit Pandey, who lit the ceremonial lamp in the presence of senior officials and guests. Addressing the participants, Dr. Pandey emphasized that well-trained and skilled forest personnel are essential for safeguarding forests and wildlife.
He said the changing nature of environmental challenges and advancements in technology require forest guards to continuously upgrade their knowledge and capabilities.
During the inaugural session, Dr. Yogeshwar Mishra, Senior Scientist and Head of the Research Coordination Group, briefed participants on the institute’s ongoing research and development activities.
He encouraged the trainees to apply the knowledge and practical experience gained during the programme in their respective field assignments.
The training curriculum includes sessions on nursery management, plantation techniques, forest soil conservation, agroforestry, the use of GIS in forestry, soil testing, identification and conservation of medicinal plants, sal seed processing, tissue culture techniques, biodiversity conservation, identification and treatment of forest diseases, and the role of biotechnology in forestry.
The sessions will be conducted by the institute’s scientists and subject experts, combining classroom learning with practical demonstrations to equip participants with field-oriented skills.
According to the institute, the successful organisation of the training programme has been made possible through the active contribution of its scientists, officers, and staff, ensuring comprehensive capacity-building for women forest guards.
