ICAR Marks 95th Foundation Day with Technological Triumphs, Organizes Exhibition for Everyone

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) celebrated its 95th Foundation Day yesterday at the National Agriculture Science Complex in Pusa, New Delhi. The event was graced by esteemed guests, including Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare and President of ICAR Society, Shri Parshottam Rupala, Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry - Dairying, and Shri Kailash Choudhary, Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare.

Shri Tomar commended the historic journey of ICAR and its remarkable achievements over the past 94 years. He highlighted India's status as a surplus nation in terms of food grains, providing sustenance to 80 crore people. Under the encouragement of Prime Minister, the promotion of new agricultural technologies through various mission programs has greatly benefited farmers. Indian agricultural products are now preferred globally, with millets gaining significance in the International Year of Millets.

Shri Tomar attributed this success to the dedication of farmers and scientists. He noted that exports of agricultural and horticultural products have surpassed 50 billion US dollars. The government's focus on organic and natural farming was also highlighted, with a separate mission and budget provision of Rs. 1500 crore for the promotion of eco-friendly agriculture. Shri Tomar expressed appreciation for the scientists and farmers' invaluable service in making India not only self-sufficient but also an exporter of food items.

Shri Rupala praised ICAR for its revolutionary achievements in the dairy and fisheries sectors. He emphasized the need to explore opportunities for earning carbon credits from agriculture, which could provide additional income. As part of the event, he inaugurated an exhibition showcasing innovative technologies developed by 113 ICAR research institutes.

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Shri Choudhary shared his perspective and lauded ICAR's contributions. He emphasized the importance of strategizing and setting milestones for agricultural advancement, as ICAR approaches its centenary year in five years.

Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Secretary (DARE) and Director General (ICAR), highlighted the unprecedented growth in the agricultural sector. He emphasized that India not only achieved self-sufficiency in food grain production but also became a major exporter of agricultural products. During his presentation, Dr. Pathak showcased ICAR's achievements, which included the development of 346 varieties of food grains, 99 varieties of horticultural crops, mapping of efficient cropping system zones, fertigation schedules for 24 crops, 28 new equipment and machinery innovations, as well as vaccines for diseases such as coronavirus and lumpi.

He also mentioned the signing of 58 patents and 711 technology licensing agreements by agricultural scientists from various industries. In line with promoting agricultural innovation for commercialization, Scientist-Industry interface meetings were organized as a side event.

Shri Sanjay Garg, Additional Secretary (DARE) & Secretary ICAR, delivered the welcome address, and the event saw the participation of members of the ICAR Governing Body, senior officials, directors of ICAR institutes, scientists, vice-chancellors of state agricultural universities, farmers, and agri-preneurs.

This year marked the first celebration of Foundation Day as Technology Day. To showcase ICAR's technologies for the benefit of farmers, students, and the agri-industry, an exhibition has been organized and will remain open to the public from July 16 to 18, 2023. The exhibition aims to raise awareness about the innovative strides made by ICAR.

With ICAR's unwavering commitment to agricultural progress and technological advancements, India's agricultural sector is poised to reach new heights, ensuring food security and prosperity for the nation.

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