Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion Strategy and Social Safeguarding Action Plan 2026-2030.

The Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion Strategy and Social Safeguarding Action Plan 2026–2030 of the Institute of Forestry (IOF) establishes a comprehensive framework to promote equity, inclusion, and social justice within forestry education and research. The strategy recognizes the persistent structural, cultural, and institutional barriers faced by women, persons with disabilities, Indigenous Peoples, Dalits, and other marginalized groups in higher education and the forestry sector. Its primary objective is to mainstream gender equality, disability inclusion, and social inclusion (GEDSI) across institutional governance, academic programmes, research activities, and decision-making processes, thereby creating a more representative and inclusive academic environment. The strategy is built around three core objectives: integrating GEDSI principles into institutional governance and culture; mainstreaming inclusion in teaching, learning, and research; and ensuring a safe, respectful, and inclusive academic environment through robust social safeguarding mechanisms. The accompanying action plan includes measures such as revising institutional policies, establishing GEDSI committees, adopting gender-responsive budgeting, increasing the participation of women and marginalized groups in leadership positions, incorporating GEDSI into curricula and research, and creating confidential grievance and reporting mechanisms to address discrimination, harassment, and abuse.