India to Get Its First Forest University in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh

India is preparing to set up its first ever Forest University in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh. Marking a major step in advancing education and research in forestry, wildlife conservation, and environmental sciences. The project reflects the growing national focus on biodiversity protection, climate change mitigation, and sustainable natural resource management.

Location and Infrastructure

• City: Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh
• Campus Size: Around 125 acres
• Nearby Landmark: Jatayu Conservation and Breeding Centre
• Initial Allocation: ₹50 crore provided in the state budget

Planned facilities include,

• Academic blocks and research laboratories
• Hostels for about 500 students
• Separate accommodation for male and female students
• Auditorium, sports facilities, and faculty residences

Academic Focus

The university will offer degree and diploma programmes in areas such as,

• Forestry and Agroforestry
• Social Forestry
• Horticulture
• Wildlife Conservation
• Environmental and Climate Studies
• Biotechnology related to ecosystems

Strong emphasis will be placed on practical learning, field research, and hands-on conservation work.

Objectives of the Forest University

• Train skilled professionals for forest departments and conservation agencies
• Promote research on biodiversity, climate change, and ecosystem protection
• Support sustainable forest management and wildlife conservation
• Develop expertise in agroforestry and environmental biotechnology
• Strengthen India’s response to deforestation and ecological challenges

What Is Forest University?

• A forest university is a specialized higher education institution dedicated to forest sciences, wildlife studies, ecosystem management, and environmental sustainability.
• Unlike general universities, it combines classroom learning with extensive field-based training in forests and conservation areas.
• India, despite its vast forest cover and biodiversity, has so far lacked a dedicated forest university, relying mainly on forestry colleges and institutes.
• The new university aims to bridge this gap.

Key Takeaways

• India’s first Forest University will be set up in Gorakhpur
• Focus on forestry, wildlife, and environmental sciences
• Strong emphasis on practical and field-based learning
• Aims to boost conservation research and sustainable forest management
• Important initiative for climate and biodiversity goals

Question

Q. In which city is India’s first Forest University being set up?

(A) Lucknow
(B) Gorakhpur
(C) Dehradun
(D) Bhopal