Research Activities

Objectives

 

Long term:

 

• Bioprospecting of renewable forest resources

 

Short term:

 

• Bioassay-guided isolation and characterization of bioactive compounds with medicinal, therapeutic, phytoceutical, nutraceutical, and biopesticidal potential, with emphasis on value addition

 

• Development and commercialization of biopesticides, bioboosters, and biocolourants through industry partnerships.

 

• Diversity assessment of tree species to identify superior chemotypes and enable large-scale propagation

 

• Establishment of tissue culture protocols for elite genotypes of tree species such as teak, bamboo, melia, and red sanders to enhance productivity.

 

• Multi-site evaluation of selected tree clones to identify site-specific performers for large-scale plantation programmes.

 

• Development of descriptors and DUS (Distinctness, Uniformity, Stability) testing guidelines for indigenous forest tree species, alongside the establishment of Field Gene Banks.

 

• Development and commercialization of biopesticides, bioboosters, and biocolourants through industry partnerships.

 

• Processing and value addition of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) to enhance livelihood opportunities for forest-dependent communities.

 

• Development of seed production systems for commercially important tree species to ensure a sustainable supply of quality seeds and seedlings.

 

• Strengthening collaborative tree seed supply networks to support restoration initiatives.

 

Our research areas focus on the bioprospecting of renewable forest resources, with emphasis on:

 

• Biopesticides: Development of non-edible tree-borne oil–based, microbial, and botanical formulations.

 

• Bioboosters: Organic and forest biomass–based growth enhancers.

 

• Biocolourants: Natural colourants for applications in food, cosmetics, textiles, and healthcare.

 

• Biofuels: Production of bioethanol and biodiesel from forest resources.

 

• Biodegradable containers : Chitosan based materials.

 

• Biocure: Utilization of medicinal plants for managing minor ailments.

 

• Lab to Land” technology transfer: Bridging research outputs with field-level applications.

 

• Tribal development programmes: Empowerment through livelihood initiatives and technology transfer.

 

• Value addition of NTFPs: Enhancing utility and market potential of non-timber forest products.

 

• Extension and education: Capacity building and knowledge dissemination.