From October 6 to 8, 2025, the Himalayan Forest Research Institute (HFRI) in Panthaghati, Shimla, hosted a comprehensive three-day training programme attended by 33 dedicated Eco Warriors. The initiative focused on deepening participants’ knowledge and technical skills in forestry and nursery management.
The programme was officially inaugurated by Abhilash Damodaran, IFS, who highlighted the critical role of scientific methods in plantation and biodiversity conservation. Throughout the sessions, participants engaged in extensive learning, including nursery and plantation techniques, seed sampling demonstrations, and insights into the diversity, conservation, utilization, and marketing of medicinal plants native to the North-Western Himalayan region.
Adding practical experience to theory, a field visit to Shilaru and Narkanda gave the Eco Warriors firsthand exposure to forestry practices and high-altitude plantation management. The training culminated in a valedictory session where Sanjay Sood, IFS, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force, Himachal Pradesh, presented certificates to all participants.
