Uttar Pradesh to Establish India’s First Dedicated Forest University in Gorakhpur

India’s First Forest University: Gorakhpur Emerges as National Hub for Environmental Education

Uttar Pradesh is poised to make history with the establishment of India’s first dedicated forest university , a landmark initiative aimed at strengthening higher education, research and capacity building in forestry and environmental sciences. In a notable departure from expectations of a metro-based institution, the university will be set up in Gorakhpur , in eastern Uttar Pradesh, highlighting the state’s focus on regional and ecological relevance.

Location and Campus Development
The proposed forest university will come up on a 125-acre campus in Gorakhpur , strategically located near the Jatayu Conservation and Breeding Centre , a region already associated with wildlife protection and ecological initiatives. The land identification and approval process has been completed, clearing a major administrative hurdle and allowing the project to move towards implementation.

Academic Vision and Specialised Focus
Designed as a niche institution, the university will focus exclusively on forest and environmental sciences . Academic programmes are expected to cover forestry, agroforestry, social forestry, horticulture, wildlife conservation, ecology, climate change and sustainable environmental management. A defining feature of the curriculum will be its strong emphasis on field-based learning, hands-on training and applied research , enabling students to work directly in forest and wildlife ecosystems.

Government Initiative and Funding Support
The project was announced by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath , who underlined its importance in producing skilled professionals for forest management, biodiversity conservation and climate resilience. The Uttar Pradesh government allocated ₹50 crore in the 2024 state budget for preliminary work. The draft legislation to establish the university is under final review, after which the Detailed Project Report will pave the way for construction and infrastructure development.

What to Note for Exams?

• India’s first forest university will be located in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh .

• The campus will span 125 acres near the Jatayu Conservation and Breeding Centre .

• ₹50 crore was allocated for the project in the 2024 UP budget .

• Focus areas include forestry, wildlife, ecology and environmental sustainability .

National Significance and Infrastructure
The planned campus will include hostels for around 500 students , academic blocks, laboratories, an auditorium, sports facilities and faculty residences. Once operational, the university is expected to attract students and researchers from across India and abroad, emerging as a national centre for forest education, biodiversity research and conservation training , and significantly strengthening India’s environmental governance capacity.