ICAR-CTCRI Focuses on Climate-Resilient Varieties for Sustainable Agriculture

The ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (CTCRI) celebrated its 60th foundation day with a resolute commitment to prioritize the development of climate-resilient tuber crop varieties, aiming to tackle the growing challenges posed by climate change on agricultural productivity. During the event, Mr. Himanshu Pathak, Secretary of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) and Director General of ICAR, addressed the media and unveiled the institute's ambitious agenda.

Amid the backdrop of a changing climate and extreme weather events becoming more frequent, Mr. Pathak proudly announced that the ICAR-CTCRI had made significant strides in releasing 346 crop varieties during the 2022-2023 year across the country. What makes these accomplishments even more remarkable is that out of these varieties, an astounding 255 are specifically climate resilient. This means that they are designed to thrive under adverse conditions such as high temperatures, drought, and floods, ensuring the stability of agricultural output even in the face of changing climatic patterns.

The pressing need for climate-resilient crops has become a matter of utmost importance in India, where extreme weather events have been on the rise, affecting agriculture and posing challenges to food security. Recognizing this, the ICAR-CTCRI has made it their central focus to develop crop varieties and advanced technologies that can withstand a broad spectrum of climatic conditions.

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During the event, Mr. Pathak shed light on the ongoing project that aims to enhance the nutrient content, mineral composition, and vitamin levels of different crop varieties. This project reflects the institute's dedication to not only ensuring productivity but also focusing on the nutritional quality of crops, ultimately benefiting the health and well-being of consumers.

In his address, Mr. Pathak emphasized the importance of capacity development and the need to upskill farmers and students engaged in agricultural research. By empowering these stakeholders with knowledge and training, the ICAR-CTCRI envisions a future where cutting-edge agricultural practices are widely adopted, leading to sustainable and profitable farming practices.

The diamond jubilee celebration also witnessed the release of three noteworthy crop varieties: the CMD-resistant cassava variety named 'Sree Kaveri' and two high-yielding taro varieties called 'Sree Heera' and 'Sree Telia.' These releases showcase the institute's dedication to constant innovation and adaptation to address agricultural challenges.

The event's inauguration of several vital facilities, including a Farmer Facilitation Centre, a Climate-Controlled Plant Growth Facility, an E-crop based Smart Fertigation System, and an Agri-Business Incubation (ABI) Centre, marks a significant step forward in providing practical support and solutions to farmers and entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector.

Mr. Pathak's call for closer collaboration with private companies for technology development and commercialization reflects ICAR's forward-thinking approach in leveraging partnerships to expedite the adoption of innovative agricultural practices.

The occasion also provided an opportunity to honor seven progressive tuber crop farmers from across the country, recognizing their exceptional contributions to the field of agriculture. Additionally, exhibitions by ICAR and State institutes for school children showcased the exciting possibilities and career opportunities in agriculture, inspiring the next generation of agri-entrepreneurs and researchers.

As the nation's leading research institute dedicated to tuber crops, ICAR-CTCRI continues to play a pivotal role in advancing agricultural knowledge and ensuring food and nutritional security for India. With their unwavering commitment to climate-resilient crop varieties and cutting-edge technologies, the institute stands at the forefront of agricultural innovation, paving the way for a more sustainable and secure future.

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