Two of Uttarakhand’s top training institutes have new heads. Dr Rajendra Prasad Khajuria has taken charge as Director of the IGNFA in Dehradun. Meanwhile, Colonel S S Rajpurohit has become the 17th Principal of the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering (NIM) in Uttarkashi. Notably, both took charge in early July 2026.
New Director of IGNFA
Dr Rajendra Prasad Khajuria is a 1991-batch Indian Forest Service officer of the Andhra Pradesh cadre. He replaced Smt Bharti, who retired on 30 June 2026. Earlier, he served as Managing Director of the Andhra Pradesh Environment Management Corporation. Also, he has held key roles in forest management, conservation and policy.
About IGNFA
The Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy (IGNFA) trains officers of the Indian Forest Service. Its campus lies in Dehradun. Also, it works under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. Notably, its roots go back to the Indian Forest College set up in 1938.
New Principal of NIM
Colonel S S Rajpurohit took charge as the 17th Principal of NIM, Uttarkashi. The institute is one of India’s leading mountaineering schools. Therefore, its head plays a key role in adventure training and rescue skills.
About NIM Uttarkashi
The Nehru Institute of Mountaineering started in 1965. It works under the Ministry of Defence. Also, it runs basic, advanced and search-and-rescue courses. Furthermore, NIM experts often help in mountain rescue missions. For example, NIM took part in recent glacial lake surveys in the state.
Uttarakhand’s Training Institutes
Uttarakhand hosts many national training institutes. For instance, the LBSNAA in Mussoorie trains IAS officers. Similarly, the IMA in Dehradun trains Army officers. Also, the Forest Research Institute stands in Dehradun. Hence, the state is a major hub for national training.
Why IGNFA and NIM Matter for UKPSC
Notably, UKPSC often asks about national institutes located in the state. So, remember the new heads and the founding years. Also, revise other training institutes in Dehradun and Mussoorie. For official updates, also visit the IGNFA website. Next, for a related story, read about Uttarakhand’s first NCC training academy. You can also download our free Uttarakhand Current Affairs magazine.
So, are you preparing for the UKPSC Upper PCS 2026 prelims? Then join our UKPSC 2026 Prelims Test Series for regular practice.