Gopa Pandey

Abstract

The training pattern of IFS officers recruited by the UPSC is frequently moderated to address the emerging professional needs. Professional training of Indian Forest Service Officers at Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy at Dehra Dun has also been tailored to suit the upcoming socio-economic dimensions of forestry profession in India. A survey of IFS probationers from four batches of Indian Forest Service officer including the first batch which has undergone the latest pattern of on-the-job training sandwiched between Professional and Advance Phases has been conducted to interpret their assumptions and perceptions on the issues of Joint Forest Management in India. Though their exposure to the process is very limited, yet the new generation has expressed some key issues from its objectivity to the problem which needs to be addressed. Most of them have revealed optimistic thoughts about the process and accept JFM as one of the options of regulating forestry in India.

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Gopa Pandey

Abstract

The training of Indian Forest Service officers at Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy, Dehradun is reviewed in the light of the current job requirements of the IFS officers. The training components, design and duration are discussed to reflect upon the weightage assigned to each activity during 24 months of professional training at IGNFA. The emphasis on physical fitness and indoor vs. outdoor activities finds a mention as the personality development of forest officers depends heavily on tours, exercises and excursions. The inputs provide an exposure to various silvicultural systems in India which goes a long way in carving out professional discharge of their duties. The analysis concludes that forestry is not merely a profession, but is also a way of life, the traits of which are inculcated during the professional forestry training at IGNFA. Other in-service training programmes introduced by the Government of India ensure personnel development in the right direction during the progression of their career.

Keywords

Professional Training, Sustainable Forest Management, Indian Forest Service, Recruitment, Adventure

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