ICAR Targets 100 New Seed Varieties, Farm Tech in Ambitious 100-Day Initiative

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is gearing up to introduce 100 new seed varieties and an equal number of farm technologies within a 100-day period. This initiative, part of the government's action plan, aims to enhance India's agricultural sector. A senior official from the agriculture ministry shared these details on Monday.

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ICAR Director General Himanshu Pathak, during the institute's 96th Foundation and Technology Day celebrations, stated, "We're actively working on two key action plans: 100 new seed varieties in 100 days and 100 technologies in 100 days." Pathak mentioned that ICAR is seeking Prime Minister Narendra Modi's time to unveil these innovations, likely in mid-September when the 100-day period concludes.

Focus on Climate-Resilient Seeds

The primary focus of this initiative is on climate-resilient and biofortified seed varieties, along with advanced farm technologies. ICAR's workforce of 5,521 scientists nationwide is developing new seed varieties across various crops, including rice, wheat, and horticulture. The technologies under development cover areas such as water management, mechanisation, and plant protection.

Addressing the issue of poor penetration of ICAR's high-yield seed varieties at the farm level, Pathak revealed the establishment of seed hubs at ICAR institutions and Krishi Vigyan Kendras. "This year, we're prioritising seed hubs for high-yielding oilseeds and pulses varieties," he stated. The plan includes expanding oilseeds hubs to 174 districts and creating model village hubs for pulse seeds in 130 districts.

Showcasing Innovations

As part of the ongoing celebrations, ICAR is showcasing 40 innovative technologies developed in 2023. Pathak announced plans to sign 10 MoUs for commercialising these innovations, with around 100 industry players participating in the event.

Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan is set to inaugurate the two-day celebrations marking ICAR's 96th Foundation Day on July 16. Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Rajiv Ranjan Singh and junior ministers George Kurian and S P Singh Baghel, as well as Ministers of State for Agriculture Bhagirath Choudhary and Ram Nath Thakur, will also grace the event.

Long-Term Strategy

ICAR has outlined a five-year strategy to map out scientists working on new products and technologies. Progress is being monitored at both institutional and headquarters levels to ensure sustained focus on agricultural innovation and development.

Originally established as the Imperial Council of Agricultural Research on July 16, 1929, ICAR has been at the forefront of agricultural research since its inception. The organisation continues to play a crucial role in advancing India's agricultural sector through continuous innovation.

This comprehensive plan by ICAR aims to significantly boost India's agricultural productivity by introducing advanced seed varieties and farm technologies within a short timeframe. The initiative underscores the importance of research and development in addressing agricultural challenges.