A state-of-the-art Biochar Research and Training Facility has been inaugurated at the College of Horticulture and Forestry (COH&F), Neri, in Himachal Pradesh to promote sustainable biomass utilisation, climate-resilient agriculture and forest fire management.
The facility has been established by ProClime Services Private Limited under a tripartite Memorandum of Agreement signed last year with Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry (UHF), Nauni, and the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department, The News Himachal reported.
At the centre of the project is a biochar production unit with a processing capacity of 1.5 tonnes per day. The unit will convert locally available biomass, including pine needles, lantana, bamboo and other woody residues, into biochar—a carbon-rich material used to improve soil fertility, increase water retention, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance carbon sequestration.
Officials said the initiative aims to address two major challenges in Himachal Pradesh: frequent forest fires caused by the accumulation of dry biomass and declining soil health. Converting forest biomass into biochar is expected to reduce fire hazards while creating a value-added product for agriculture and horticulture.
The facility will also serve as a research and training centre, offering students, researchers and agricultural professionals practical exposure to biochar production, carbon sequestration technologies and sustainable natural resource management.
Research at the centre will focus on evaluating biochar applications in agriculture, horticulture and soil health improvement.
The project is also expected to generate livelihood opportunities for local communities through the collection and processing of forest biomass, creating a sustainable value chain that supports both rural incomes and environmental conservation.
Under the agreement, the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department will facilitate sustainable biomass collection through community participation, provide the required permissions and ensure compliance with forest and environmental regulations.
Dr. YS Parmar University will provide land for the facility, support statutory approvals and undertake research on biochar applications, while ProClime Services Private Limited will establish, operate and maintain the unit, provide technical expertise and develop market linkages for biochar products.
