The School of Applied and Life Sciences (SALS), Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, organized an educational visit to the prestigious Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun, on 10th August 2026 for students of B.Sc. Life Sciences, B.Sc. Food Technology, and B.Sc. Chemistry as part of their induction programme. The students were accompanied by faculty members Dr. Chandrakanta Pathak and Dr. Pashupati Nath.
The visit aimed to provide students with practical exposure to forestry research, environmental conservation, sustainable management of natural resources, and scientific applications beyond the classroom. During the visit, students received an orientation about the history, objectives, and major research activities of FRI. They visited important facilities, including the Forest Pathology Museum, Silviculture Museum, Timber Museum, and non-timber forest products section. The extensive collections of wood samples, plant specimens, forest products, and other materials helped students understand forest biodiversity and the ecological and economic significance of forest resources.
Students also gained exposure to research activities related to forest genetics, tree improvement, soil science, forest ecology, and environmental monitoring. Faculty members and scientists interacted with the students and discussed contemporary issues such as climate change, biodiversity conservation, restoration of degraded forests, deforestation, and the role of forests in carbon sequestration.
The visit was particularly relevant to students from different disciplines. B.Sc. Food Technology students learned about non-timber forest products, medicinal plants, and value-added forest-based products with potential applications in nutraceuticals and sustainable food ingredients. B.Sc. Chemistry students gained insights into the chemical composition of wood, extraction of bioactive compounds, and analytical approaches used in forest product research. Life Sciences students connected their classroom knowledge with biodiversity, ecology, and conservation practices.
The visit successfully promoted experiential learning, interdisciplinary understanding, and scientific curiosity among students. It also helped bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world scientific applications in forestry, environmental sustainability, and life sciences.
