• The Division of Genetics and Tree Improvement (GTI) is a core discipline of the Institute entrusted with the task of understanding the genetics of forestry species and developing new varieties through application of principles of selection and breeding. All research programmes undertaken by the Division are aimed at contributing towards achieving the mandate of the Institute - increasing productivity of natural and planted forests to meet the increasing demand for wood and wood products in the country. Since trees have a long gestation period, tree breeding programmes are also have a long-term and implemented in active collaboration with other disciplines in the Institute. Research projects undertaken during the past three decades have resulted in an increased understanding of the reproductive biology, breeding system, population structure and the extent of genetic control over different traits of economic importance and interactions between genotype and environment for different tree species. This knowledge has been effectively utilized to develop effective selection and breeding strategies for widely planted species and evolve genetically improved and high-yielding seed and clonal varieties. The new planting material developed by the Division have benefitted all the stakeholders of the Institute viz., forest department, forest development corporations, wood-based industries and farmers.

Species under Genetic Improvement

• GTI Division is undertaking genetic improvement activities for different species having importance from various perspectives like industrial need, end uses and livelihood needs. A broad outline of the species currently under improvement and their utilization are given in Table 1. The intensity of the breeding programme is dependent on the extent of demand and the area of cultivation of species. Various research assets like germplasm banks, provenance, progeny and clonal trials, seed orchards and vegetative multiplication gardens have been created for these species in different parts of the country to service the ongoing research programmes and the stakeholders.

Details of tree species under genetic improvement in GTI Division