Directorate of Research Nauni, Solan(HP)

Directorate of Research is the nodal authority to plan, implement, monitor, evaluate and coordinate research activities of different departments, Regional Research Stations and satellite Stations situated in all the agro-climatic zones of the State. The masters’ and doctoral research carried out in the university is also monitored and approved at the Directorate of Research. All state-of-the-art facilities are available to carry out research on various aspects of horticulture and forestry. The University operates on land grant pattern and research trials are carried out on 545 ha of experimental farm at the main campus at Nauni, Solan and 202 ha of experimental farms at the Regional Research and Satellite Stations.

The Directorate of Research is headed by the Director of Research. The Director of research is assisted by Joint Director Research (Horticulture), Joint Director Research (Forestry) and Joint Director Research (Planning) at the headquarter and by Associate Directors (R&E) /Incharges of Regional Research and Training Stations and Satellite Research Stations for research planning and technical matters.

The main functions of the Directorate of Research are:

  • To develop and coordinate research in the university, promote inter-disciplinary collaboration in research programmes and cooperate, collaborate with the Directorate of Extension Education in extending the outcome of the research programmes to the fields.
  • To coordinate all research activities conducted in the different departments of colleges by faculty members and post-graduate students in the university through Dean of the Colleges.
  • To formulate research plan, policies, and programmes through Research Council of the university
  • To administer control over research staff and funds for pursuance of the research programme.
  • To act as a Principal Liaison /Nodal Office with funding agencies for carrying out different research programmes/projects in the university.
  • To provide leadership in development and maintenance of research standards of a high level in the university.
Patent and Licensing Policy of Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry

Director of Research

Himachal Pradesh, a beautiful state nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, is not only known for its picturesque landscapes, but also for its rich horticulture and forestry practices. The importance of horticulture and forestry in Himachal Pradesh cannot be understated, as these sectors play a vital role in boosting the state's economy, conserving the environment, and providing employment opportunities to local residents. Horticulture, the science and art of cultivating fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants, has been a traditional practice in Himachal Pradesh for centuries. The state's favourable climate, soil conditions, and abundant water resources make it ideal for horticultural activities. Himachal Pradesh is renowned for its apple orchards, producing high-quality apples that are in great demand across the country. In addition to apples, the state also cultivates a wide variety of fruits such as cherries, plums, peaches, apricots, pears, and kiwis. These fruits not only satisfy domestic consumption but are also exported to other states and even abroad, earning significant revenue for the state. Off-season vegetable cultivation and floriculture is also a major horticultural enterprise in the state contributing significantly to the economy of the Pradesh.

The horticulture sector in Himachal Pradesh acts as a major source of employment for the local population. Small and marginal farmers, who constitute a significant portion of the state's population, engage in horticultural activities to sustain their livelihood. The cultivation, harvesting, and marketing of fruits and vegetables provide direct and indirect employment opportunities to thousands of people. Moreover, horticulture also promotes the development of allied industries, such as agro-processing units, cold storage facilities, and the manufacturing of fruit-based products like jams, jellies, juices, and canned fruits. These industries further generate employment and contribute to the state's economy.

The forests of Himachal Pradesh are not only a delight for nature lovers but also crucial for the overall well-being of the state. The state's forest cover plays a key role in maintaining ecological balance, conserving biodiversity, and mitigating the impact of climate change. The forests act as natural carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide, and releasing oxygen, thereby protecting the air quality and combating global warming. Forestry in Himachal Pradesh is a major source of timber, fuelwood, and non-timber forest products. The state's forests provide raw materials for various industries, such as paper, plywood, furniture, and handicrafts, contributing to the industrial growth of the state. Moreover, the cultivation of medicinal plants in the forests is gaining prominence, as these plants have significant economic value and offer immense potential for the pharmaceutical industry. Forest-based tourism is another sector that has gained popularity, attracting nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and wildlife lovers from across the country and beyond. This not only generates revenue but also raises awareness about the importance of conserving forests and protecting wildlife.

The University, recognizing the significance of horticulture and forestry, was established in 1985 and has contributed significantly through development of technologies, planting material and varieties to promote and support these sectors. Efforts are made to improve the cultivation techniques, develop and adopt modern technology, and enhance marketing strategies, enabling farmers to get better returns on their produce. Horticulture and forestry hold great importance in Himachal Pradesh, both economically and environmentally. These sectors not only contribute to the state's economy and provide employment opportunities but also conserve the environment and promote sustainable practices. It is imperative that the University, stakeholders, and the local community continue to work together to further strengthen these sectors, ensuring long-term prosperity and overall development of the state.

Research at Main Campus

The research is carried out by the faculty members and postgraduate students of different departments in the constituent colleges of the University and faculty members at Regional Stations and Satellite stations. The research programs are formulated by the faculty members in consultation with the Heads of the Departments and subsequently approved by the Director of Research keeping in view the direction of Research Council of the University. The researchable issues /problems are identified from the feedback of interactions with farmers, line departments, KVKs. The need research programmes are focused on crop improvement, production, protection, postharvest management, value addition of various horticultural and forestry crops.

The long term research projects of the university are funded by ICAR, State Government and short term projects i.e. adhoc projects are formulated by the faculty members on some burning problems and submitted to various funding agencies for financial assistance through Director of Research.

The research programs are carried out at constituent colleges (A) and Regional Research Stations (B) and Satellite stations (C) located in all agro-climatic zones with emphasis on need based and location specific.

A. The constituent colleges of the University

  1. College of Horticulture, Nauni, Solan
  2. College of Forestry, Nauni, Solan
  3. College of Horticulture and Forestry, Neri, Hamirpur
  4. College of Horticulture and Forestry, Thunag, Mandi

C. Satellite Research Station

There are varying farming situations in each climatic zone owing to the complexity of cropping systems, rainfall pattern, biophysical settings and socio-economic base. Satellite research stations were established as per detail given below:

Staff

Dr Vishal Rana

Joint Director Research

Specialization: Fruit Science (Crop Physiology)

  • Phone : 91-1792-252315 (O),9418457401
  • Email : vishalranafrs@yspuniversity.ac.in
  • Other Email : drvishaluhf@gmail.com

For detail click here...

Dr Rajesh Kaushal

Joint Director of Research

Specialization: Soil Microbiology, Plant Nutrition

  • Phone : 91-1792-252315 (O), 91-94181-97516
  • Email : rkaushalsoil@yspuniversity.ac.in
  • Other Email : drrkaushal@rediffmail.com

For detail click here...