Forestry Scientist Dr. K. Gurumurthi passes away at 81

Renowned forestry scientist Dr. K. Gurumurthi, celebrated for his pioneering contributions to tree physiology, biotechnology, and large-scale clonal forestry in India, passed away on November 26. He was 81.
Dr. Gurumurthi, a distinguished figure in the field of forest science, devoted his career to improving forest tree productivity through scientific innovation. He played a pivotal role in championing clonal forestry at a time when India lacked domesticated tree varieties, successfully addressing major challenges and transforming productivity in the forestry sector.
A specialist in physiology and biotechnology, he conducted pioneering studies on biomass energy plantations, adventitious root initiation, and tissue culture techniques. His work laid the foundation for large-scale clonal propagule production, which continues to benefit both industry and farmers.
During his tenure at the Institute of Forest Genetics and Tree Breeding (ICFRE–IFGTB), Coimbatore, Dr. Gurumurthi established state-of-the-art biotechnology laboratories, model tree propagation complexes, and clone banks. His clonal forestry methods for key species such as eucalypts, teak, neem, bamboos, and casuarinas became widely adopted across India.
He played a crucial role in transferring mass-multiplication technologies for eucalyptus and casuarina to the Andhra Pradesh Forest Development Corporation under a World Bank project. His early work on DNA markers and genetic transformation of tree species also gained significant recognition at the national level.
Beyond research, Dr. Gurumurthi served as a senior advisor in the Department of Biotechnology, contributing to national policies on genetic engineering, biosafety, and bioresource development. Internationally, he worked as an FAO consultant for Bhutan and the FORTIP project, and as a national consultant for a baseline study on tree improvement in India.
Throughout his career, he guided 25 Ph.D. scholars and served as Director of ICFRE–IFGTB, leaving a lasting imprint on forestry research and education.
Dr. Gurumurthi’s passing marks the end of an era in Indian forestry science. His contributions to research, agroforestry, and biotechnology will continue to inspire future generations.