Genetics and Tree Improvement Division

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Introduction

The Genetics and Tree Improvement is engaged in multidisciplinary research on conservation, characterization, improvement, and sustainable utilization of forest genetic resources in arid and semi-arid regions of India. The division conducts research on genetic variability, provenance evaluation, seed source improvement, tree breeding, and conservation biology of important tree species such as Prosopis cineraria, Tecomella undulata, Azadirachta indica, and Santalum album, as well as medicinally important species like Commiphora wightii, Sterculia urens, Salvadora persica, and Caralluma edulis, to name a few. It has significantly contributed to the identification of superior germplasm through Candidate Plus Tree (CPT) selection, progeny and provenance trials, and development of seed production areas using advanced molecular marker systems and comparative genomics approaches.

The division is equipped with modern biotechnology and molecular biology facilities, including a well-established Tissue Culture Laboratory for micropropagation, in vitro conservation, and genetic transformation. Research efforts also focus on conservation, biochemical profiling, and abiotic stress tolerance in dryland tree species. The division has actively participated in national research programmes on Neem, Sandalwood, Bamboo, and Forest Genetic Resources. Through integration of conventional breeding, biotechnology, molecular genetics, and conservation strategies, the division aims to enhance forest productivity, conserve genetic diversity, improve planting stock quality, and develop climate-resilient planting material for sustainable management of arid ecosystems.

Objectives

1. Conservation and sustainable utilization of forest genetic resources of arid and semi-arid regions

2. Conservation of genetic variability for future tree breeding and improvement programmes

3. Evaluation and screening of superior provenances and seed sources suitable for different agro-climatic conditions

4. Improvement of planting stock through selection, breeding, and biotechnology interventions

5. Development of rapid and efficient mass multiplication protocols using tissue culture and vegetative propagation techniques

6. Application of molecular markers, genomics, and high-throughput tools for understanding genetic diversity and stress tolerance mechanisms

7. Development of climate-resilient, disease-resistant, and high-yielding planting material through genetic engineering and advanced breeding approaches

8. Conservation and propagation of rare, endangered, threatened, and economically important medicinal plant species

Research Highlights

Gene Mining - Bioinformatics
Guggul Bioreactor
Guggul SE TC Protocol
Halophyte Gene Expression
Identified potential seed stands of 6 important species of Rajasthan
Neem GM
Sandalwood trial at Kanasar, Phalodi
Tecomella panel
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People

S.No. Name of Officer Designation Official Email Contact
Sh. Karna Ram Choudhary CTO & Incharge Polyhouse krchoudhary@icfre.org EPABX-2729126
Dr. Desha Meena Scientist E & HOD desha@icfre.org 2729138
Dr. Tarun Kant Scientist G tarunkant@cfre.org 2729136
Dr. Anjali Joshi Scientist C ajoshi@icfre.org 2729130
Sh. Thanaram Rathore CTO trrathore@icfre.org 2729126
Sh. Jaiprakash Dadich STO jdadich@icfre.org 2729127
Sh. Naveen Vanveru Technical Assisstant vanveru@icfre.org 2729127
Sh. Raja Ram MTS rajaram_mts@icfre.org 2729127