Director of Research

Himachal Pradesh, a beautiful state nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, is not only known for its picturesque landscapes, but also for its rich horticulture and forestry practices. The importance of horticulture and forestry in Himachal Pradesh cannot be understated, as these sectors play a vital role in boosting the state's economy, conserving the environment, and providing employment opportunities to local residents. Horticulture, the science and art of cultivating fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants, has been a traditional practice in Himachal Pradesh for centuries. The state's favourable climate, soil conditions, and abundant water resources make it ideal for horticultural activities. Himachal Pradesh is renowned for its apple orchards, producing high-quality apples that are in great demand across the country. In addition to apples, the state also cultivates a wide variety of fruits such as cherries, plums, peaches, apricots, pears, and kiwis. These fruits not only satisfy domestic consumption but are also exported to other states and even abroad, earning significant revenue for the state. Off-season vegetable cultivation and floriculture is also a major horticultural enterprise in the state contributing significantly to the economy of the Pradesh.

The horticulture sector in Himachal Pradesh acts as a major source of employment for the local population. Small and marginal farmers, who constitute a significant portion of the state's population, engage in horticultural activities to sustain their livelihood. The cultivation, harvesting, and marketing of fruits and vegetables provide direct and indirect employment opportunities to thousands of people. Moreover, horticulture also promotes the development of allied industries, such as agro-processing units, cold storage facilities, and the manufacturing of fruit-based products like jams, jellies, juices, and canned fruits. These industries further generate employment and contribute to the state's economy.

The forests of Himachal Pradesh are not only a delight for nature lovers but also crucial for the overall well-being of the state. The state's forest cover plays a key role in maintaining ecological balance, conserving biodiversity, and mitigating the impact of climate change. The forests act as natural carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide, and releasing oxygen, thereby protecting the air quality and combating global warming. Forestry in Himachal Pradesh is a major source of timber, fuelwood, and non-timber forest products. The state's forests provide raw materials for various industries, such as paper, plywood, furniture, and handicrafts, contributing to the industrial growth of the state. Moreover, the cultivation of medicinal plants in the forests is gaining prominence, as these plants have significant economic value and offer immense potential for the pharmaceutical industry. Forest-based tourism is another sector that has gained popularity, attracting nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and wildlife lovers from across the country and beyond. This not only generates revenue but also raises awareness about the importance of conserving forests and protecting wildlife.

The University, recognizing the significance of horticulture and forestry, was established in 1985 and has contributed significantly through development of technologies, planting material and varieties to promote and support these sectors. Efforts are made to improve the cultivation techniques, develop and adopt modern technology, and enhance marketing strategies, enabling farmers to get better returns on their produce. Horticulture and forestry hold great importance in Himachal Pradesh, both economically and environmentally. These sectors not only contribute to the state's economy and provide employment opportunities but also conserve the environment and promote sustainable practices. It is imperative that the University, stakeholders, and the local community continue to work together to further strengthen these sectors, ensuring long-term prosperity and overall development of the state.