After completing my post-graduate degree in Botany in 1988 and my Ph.D. in Forest Ecology in 1992 from Kumaun University, Nainital and joined WII as Faculty in 1999. My research career that spans over 35 years has been focused on producing scientific data on biodiversity of Himalayan region and utilised in decision-making for the region's sustainable development. The majority of my research focuses on understanding the dynamics of Himalayan forest ecosystems, high-value medicinal and aromatic plant conservation and development, habitat characterisation, the effects of climate change on the Himalayan forest ecosystems and the effects of snow water melt on herbaceous plant species in the alpine region. The timberline ecotone is the most important area of my research because both biodiversity and cultural influence (such as traditional ways of life, NTFP collection, fuel wood, grazing, and religious and temporary settlements) are significantly impacted by changes in the timberline. Therefore, knowing the effects of past changes and current constraints helps to predict how timberline forest ecosystems will respond in the future.
I have a strong desire to support the long-term sustainability and upkeep of this sensitive ecosystem as well as the advancement of the local community, since I am passionate about the Himalayan ecosystems, cultural diversity, and natural resources.
Dr. Bhupendra Singh Adhikari
Wildlife Institute of India, Chandrabani, Dehradun 248001, India.
+91-9412056031, +91-0135-2646128
adhikaribs [at] wii [dot] gov [dot] in