Uttar Pradesh will have its first Forest University in a mega move toward strengthening the environment and forest education in the state. The university has been proposed to be set up in Gorakhpur with an investment of about INR 500 crore, focusing on forestry, wildlife, climate change and environmental sciences.
Major problems that India faces today are climate change, reduced green cover, and increased pollution. Experts suggested that such a university setup would go a long way toward creating skilled manpower who can contribute to the protection of forests and wildlife.
UP Forest University Updates: Location and Campus Details
The university campus will be developed on 125 acres of land near the Jatayu Conservation and Breeding Centre in Gorakhpur. This is the same location where Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath first announced the plan on September 6, 2024.
The state government has now approved the land parcel, and the Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been finalised. The draft of the university’s Act is also in its final stage of review. Once the cabinet approves the DPR, the tender process will begin, followed by construction.
UP Forest University Courses and Academic Focus
The Forest University will offer degree and diploma programmes in subjects such as:
- Forestry
- Agroforestry
- Social Forestry
- Horticulture
- Ecology and Natural Resources
- Climate Change and Environmental Studies
Students will receive both classroom learning and practical training in forest and conservation areas, helping them gain real-world experience.
UP Forest University Infrastructure and Facilities
The campus will support both academic learning and field-based research, according to officials. The campus will consist of:
- About 500 rooms in separate dorms for male and female students
- Contemporary labs and classrooms
- An auditorium and administrative building
- Sports facilities
- Faculty members' living quarters
UP Forest University: National and Global Importance
The university is expected to boost biotechnology and wildlife research in Uttar Pradesh. Students from across India and even from other countries will be able to study and conduct research here.
Once completed, the institution is expected to become a national-level centre for forest education. It will help produce trained professionals for forest departments, research bodies and conservation organisations.
