To undertake and promote forestry research, education and extension, leading to scientific and sustainable management of forests, with a special focus on arid and semi-arid regions.

To provide scientific advice to the central and state governments aiding informed decision making in matters of national and regional importance and international commitments and to address forestry research needs.

To carry out research in forestry with focus on biodiversity conservation, silvicultural and biotechnological techniques to maximize productivity of arid and semi-arid vegetation.

To provide technical assistance and material support to states, forest department communities, forest based industries, tree & NTFP growers and other stakeholders in their forestry based programmes for conservation and sustainable use of forest resources.

To develop technologies for combating desertification and eco-restoration of degraded ecosystems.

To undertake research in sustainable resource utilization of non-timber forest produce through value addition.

To develop, upscale, disseminate and share appropriate technologies to end-users through innovative extension strategies and capacity building programmes.

To act as repository of knowledge related to forestry, environment and climate change, especially with respect to arid and semi-arid regions.

To undertake all such activities as necessary, incidental and conducive to attainment of the objectives of the Council.