New Delhi: In a vibrant celebration of agricultural science and innovation, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) marked its 97th Foundation Day at the Bharat Ratna C. Subramaniam Auditorium, NASC Complex, Pusa, New Delhi. Union Agriculture, Farmers Welfare and Rural Development Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan led the commemoration, describing ICAR as an institution “worthy of gratitude from 800 million Indians” who benefit from food security and exports driven by Indian agricultural excellence.
Honouring India’s Scientific Community
Addressing a gathering of scientists, research directors, farmers, and policymakers, Shri Chouhan hailed agricultural scientists as “modern-day Rishis”, stating:
“They think of others before themselves and are the true architects of India’s food security.”
He awarded National Agricultural Science Awards to outstanding scientists, including women and young innovators, and inaugurated the ‘Viksit Krishi Exhibition’, showcasing emerging agri-technologies. Ten new research publications were released, and several MoUs were signed to foster global research collaboration.
Agricultural Growth Under PM Modi: Record Surges in Production
Minister Chouhan credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for ushering in a new agricultural revolution.
-
Foodgrain production has seen 8.1 million tonnes of annual growth (2013–2025), a nearly threefold increase compared to previous decades.
-
Horticulture has grown by 7.5 million tonnes annually in the last 11 years, outpacing historical averages.
-
Milk production surged from 4.2 million tonnes per year (2000–2014) to 10.2 million tonnes (2014–2025), marking a decade of dairy transformation.
The Minister shared that India is now exporting wheat and registering record rice yields, with discussions already underway for expanding storage infrastructure.
Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan: 500 Research Topics Identified
Shri Chouhan emphasized that the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, the largest agricultural campaign of its kind globally, has resulted in the identification of 500 pressing research topics. These include:
-
Cotton yield decline and viral attacks on Bt cotton
-
Sugarcane and maize-specific challenges
-
Post-harvest losses and shelf-life extension
-
Affordable, portable fertilizer testing tools
He stressed that future research must emerge from ground-level issues rather than being driven by Delhi-based agendas. “Field needs must determine research priorities,” he said.
Focus on Small Farmers: Machinery, Natural Farming, and Input Ethics
The Minister declared a strong pro-farmer, pro-marginal landholder agenda, stating:
“India doesn’t need massive machines. We need small, efficient tools that support the farmer with 1 acre of land.”
He urged ICAR scientists to prioritize:
-
Natural farming techniques as sustainable solutions
-
Per-hectare productivity in pulses and oilseeds
-
Crop-specific research programs led by scientific teams
In response to exploitation concerns in the input sector, he proposed Jan Aushadhi-style fertilizer centres and toll-free grievance numbers for farmers. He cautioned companies and local sellers:
“No farmer should be forced to buy non-essential products. Cheating farmers will not be tolerated.”
Shri Chouhan cited the unregulated sale of over 30,000 bio-stimulants, saying letters have been sent to all states to curb such malpractices.
Strengthening Ethical Research Partnerships
The Minister directed ICAR to ensure ethical pricing and transparency in all MoUs signed with agri-businesses. He emphasized collaboration with the Department of Agriculture to maintain fairness in seed, fertilizer, and bio-input supply chains.
“One Team, One Goal” – Scientists Must Lead the Way
Concluding his remarks, Shri Chouhan reaffirmed the government’s unwavering support for the scientific community, urging them to:
-
Serve society with dedication, ethics, and field-led innovation
-
Build farmer-centric teams aligned with the principle of “One Team, One Goal”
-
Champion the vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) through scientific excellence
“You do not work just for your livelihood. You are performing a sacred yajna for the future of this country,” he told the gathering of scientists.
A Grand Celebration of 97 Years of Agricultural Innovation
The event was attended by dignitaries including Shri Bhagirath Choudhary, Minister of State for Agriculture; Shri Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary (MoA&FW); Dr. M.L. Jat, DG (ICAR); and directors of national agricultural research institutes. Farmers, students, and scholars participated in large numbers, reflecting the inclusive spirit of India’s agricultural transformation.
Source: PIB
For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.
