The curtains came down on the historic Tropical Forestry Conclave and the year-long Golden Jubilee celebrations (1975–2025) of the KSCSTE-Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) today. The valedictory session, held at the KFRI Main Auditorium, served as a prestigious platform to reflect on fifty years of scientific excellence and to set a new agenda for the next half-century of forest conservation.

The session was inaugurated by Adv. K. Rajan, Hon’ble Minister for Revenue and Land Reforms, highlighted the critical role of scientific research in land management and ecological restoration. In his inaugural address, the Minister emphasised that KFRI’s work is vital for sustainable development and climate resilience in Kerala. Shri M.C. Dathan, Mentor (Science) to the Chief Minister of Kerala, delivered the keynote address, urging the scientific community to integrate emerging technologies with traditional knowledge to protect our natural heritage.

A key highlight of the ceremony was the official launch of the Forest Entomology Museum (Insectarium). Presented by Dr. T.V. Sajeev, Chief Scientist at KFRI, the museum houses a massive collection of tropical forest insect specimens gathered over four decades, serving as a vital resource for taxonomists and ecologists worldwide.

The event also saw the release of the 50-Year Research Compendium, a monumental publication documenting KFRI’s pioneering contributions to tropical forestry since 1975. This was accompanied by the release of several other key scientific books and the distribution of awards to distinguished researchers and staff who have shaped the institute's legacy.

The celebrations concluded on a high note with a mesmerising cultural evening presented by the world-renowned Kerala Kalamandalam. The audience was spellbound by "Ente Keralam," a spectacular fusion dance performance that showcased the rhythmic grace and traditional beauty of Kerala’s classical arts. The performance artfully blended Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Bharatanatyam, providing a fitting artistic tribute to the institute's golden milestone.

The session concluded with a presidential address by Dr. Kannan C.S. Warrier, Director of KSCSTE-KFRI, and a heartfelt vote of thanks by Dr. K.A. Sreejith, marking the end of a week that successfully bridged the world of high science with the heartbeat of Kerala’s culture.