PrashantNews
The Dehradun-based the Forest Research Institute (FRI) on Friday celebrated the International Day of Forests.
The theme for this year ‘Forests and Food’ emphasized the critical role of forests in food security, nutrition, and sustainable livelihoods.
The celebration commenced with a warm welcome to all attendees. Richa Misra, Head of Extension Division, FRI, presented a bouquet to chief guest Dr Anil Prakash Joshi. She then delivered the formal Welcome Address, setting the tone for the event and underlining the importance of the occasion.
Dr. Renu Singh, Director of FRI, delivered the opening remarks, highlighting the pivotal role of the FRI in forest conservation and sustainable management. She also emphasized the theme of International Forests Day 2025, stressing the urgent need to recognize forests as key contributors to global food systems, climate resilience, and ecological balance.
The highlight of the event was the Lecture by Padma Bhushan Dr Joshi, a distinguished environmentalist and the founder of HESCO, a Dehradun based NGO. Dr. Joshi’s insightful talk on ‘Forests and Food’ was inspiring, reinforcing the crucial role of forests in ensuring food security and sustainability. He also stressed the importance of sustainable land use practices, forest conservation, water resource management, and climate change adaptation.
Following the guest lecture, Dr. Singh, Director, FRI, honored Dr. Joshi with a shawl as a token of appreciation for his contributions to environmental conservation and sustainable development. The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Sh. Lokinder Sharma, Scientist-C, Extension Division, expressing gratitude to all contributors.