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IIT Indore to establish a 50-hectare Nagar Van urban forest for biodiversity research and conservation under the CAMPA fund

Campus goes green as institute branches out into forestry

By Tina Khatri Indore

IIT Indore is set to develop a 50-hectare urban forest under the Nagar Van Yojana, as the Indore Forest Division initiates a project aimed at integrating conservation, research, and public engagement within an academic campus.

The project, funded with 1.98 crore under the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority, will convert a significant portion of the grounds into a managed forest ecosystem. Pradeep Mishra, divisional forest officer for Indore, stated that the site is planned as a functional forest rather than a recreational park.

"This Nagar Van is planned as a functional forest, not a recreational park," Mishra said. "It will support biodiversity, conservation research and environmental education."

Infrastructure for research

The facility will include nature interpretation trails, bird-watching tracks, and water bodies. Internal pathways and solar lighting will be installed alongside watch towers to facilitate long-term ecological observation. Mishra mentioned that the layout allows for student involvement in monitoring forest health and species diversity.

50 Hectares Total Forest Area
1.98 Crore Project Funding
RET Nursery Rare Species Focus

A central component of the initiative is a nursery for rare, endangered, and threatened plant species. This facility will raise native saplings for use on campus and for restoration activities in surrounding areas. Mishra explained that raising such species requires scientific methods and sustained care, contrasting it with short-term plantation drives.

The project also includes an eco-restaurant to be operated by joint forest management committees, linking forest conservation with local livelihoods. Mishra stated that this allows people to observe how conservation and community participation work together.

Urban expansion

Beyond the academic campus, the forest department is developing another Nagar Van at Devguradiya hill at a cost of 1.42 crore. That site will focus on medicinal plants and bamboo structures. Mishra noted that forests serve both ecological and cultural functions.

Indore Forest Division has identified four additional sites for development in the next financial year. Theme-based proposals for these locations will be sent to the central government for final approval.

Location Investment Primary Focus
IIT Indore 1.98 Crore Research & RET Nursery
Devguradiya Hill 1.42 Crore Medicinal Plants & Culture
Ramna Bijasan TBD Green Cover Expansion
TCS Campus Area TBD Urban Integration

Mishra concluded that these forests will increase green cover and provide accessible natural spaces within the city. Researchers will study seed collection and habitat restoration as part of the ongoing programme.

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