Forestry is not wilderness for all

Forests are one of the invaluable natural resources. We need to sustain them to preserve the earth. They are the primary source of existence, ecology and economy. Forestry directly focuses on sustainable wildlife resource management, its utilization and development. Being a forester is being a close to nature as a conservation scientist. Hence, a career in forestry is enormously satisfying.

A B Sc, degree in Forestry is four years programme. There are also B Sc in Tree Improvement and Genetic Resources. Apart from skilling, the degree provides knowledge about latest technology to enhance the field of forestry. The subjects include basics in Geology, Horticulture, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Forest Economics, Physical Education, Environmental Science, Nursery Maintenance, Silvicultural Systems, Managing of Water Resources, Forest Mensuration, Seed Technology, Soil Survey, Livestock Management, Forest Pathology, Wildlife Management, Agroforestry, Medicinal and Aromatic Plants and Apiculture. The degree also consists of a vast amount of practical sessions in the field. Later, one can pursue M Sc, specialising in Forestry, Agroforestry, Forest Products, Tree Improvement and Wildlife Sciences, Forest Management, Commercial Forestry, Forest Economics, Wood Science and Technology and Wildlife Science. M.Phil and PhD are higher options. 

There are Postgraduate diploma courses in Zoo and Wild Animal Health Cure and Management, Forestry Management, Wild Animal Disease Management and Forest Products. For those who have cleared Class 10 and Class 12, the one-year certificate courses equips students with basic- level knowledge. Generally, they are given practical knowledge of forest and conservation of flora and fauna.

Jobs are available in both government and private sectors, depending on the level of education. There are jobs as a forester, plantation manager, in forest management, nursery manager, wasteland developer, clientele services, production and marketing of timbers, forest product marketing, lecturer, research and development. The Botanical and Zoological Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks also employ forestry graduates. One should not forget the prospects as photographers, wildlife filmmakers and journalists for publishing and television houses. Some find their way into NGOs. With certificate courses, some basic level jobs could be earned. 

You can also write Indian Forest Service Examination under UPSC after fulfilling all the conditions of age, personal abilities and educational qualifications. An IFS officer exercises administrative, judicial and financial functions independent of district administration and holds all the top posts of forest departments.

Today, the environmental issues have taken centre stage. Forestry becomes part of the solution. But no high-octane opportunities are created. Hence, people with specialisations tend to migrate out of their domain. 

India has 635,400 sq.km of designated forest area, which is about 19.32 per cent of the country. A vast area with low career options, where only people with passion find their way. If you are naturally adventurous, forestry is not just a way it is your destination. John Muir, John of the Mountains, rightly said it for you, “The clearest way into the universe is through a forest wilderness.”