New Delhi, July 16, 2025: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research ( ICAR ) marked its 97th Foundation Day with a strong emphasis on ...
New Delhi, July 16, 2025:
The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) marked its 97th Foundation Day with a strong emphasis on scientific innovation, farmer welfare, and sustainable agricultural growth. The event was held at the Bharat Ratna C. Subramaniam Auditorium, NASC Complex, Pusa, New Delhi.
India’s Agriculture Sector Witnessing Record Growth
Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers Welfare, and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, addressed the gathering, praising the consistent growth in food grain production, horticulture, and milk output under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
The minister highlighted that India’s annual foodgrain production has increased by 8.1 million tonnes over the past 11 years, marking a significant jump compared to previous decades. Horticultural production is growing by 7.5 million tonnes annually, while milk production has more than doubled in the last decade, increasing by 10.2 million tonnes per year.
Focus on Pulses, Oilseeds, and Small Farmers
Shri Chouhan urged ICAR scientists to focus more on research in pulses and oilseeds and called for the development of compact agricultural machinery suitable for India’s large population of marginal and small farmers. He emphasized that future research must align with real challenges faced by farmers on the ground.
He also announced the ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan,’ the largest agricultural initiative of its kind globally, which has identified 500 key research areas for targeted development.
Strict Measures Against Exploitation in Agri-Inputs
Addressing concerns about unethical practices in the agri-input market, the minister announced a toll-free helpline for farmers to report fraud or coercion. He warned that forcing farmers to buy nonessential products or selling substandard seeds and fertilizers would not be tolerated. Plans are underway to set up affordable fertilizer outlets similar to Jan Aushadhi Kendras, which provide low-cost medicines.
ICAR Honours Scientists and Launches New Initiatives
During the ceremony, Shri Chouhan presented the National Agricultural Science Awards to leading scientists, women researchers, young innovators, and technology developers. He also inaugurated the ‘Viksit Krishi Exhibition,’ showcasing advanced agricultural technologies, and released 10 new publications. Multiple MoUs were signed to strengthen research partnerships and collaborations.
One Team, One Goal for India’s Agricultural Future
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to farmer welfare, the minister urged the scientific community to adopt the principle of “One Team, One Goal” to build a strong, self-reliant agricultural sector. He called scientists the “modern-day Rishis,” acknowledging their dedication to ensuring India’s food security and sustainable development.
The event saw the participation of Shri Bhagirath Choudhary, Union Minister of State for Agriculture; Secretary Shri Devesh Chaturvedi; ICAR Director General Dr. M.L. Jat; senior officials; scientists; and hundreds of farmers from across the country.
Key Highlights
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ICAR celebrates 97 years of agricultural research and innovation.
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Focus on boosting food grain, horticulture, and milk production.
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Major push for research in pulses, oilseeds, and small farm machinery.
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New initiatives to protect farmers from exploitation in the input market.
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Launch of the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan with 500 research topics.
Tags:
ICAR Foundation Day 2025, Indian agriculture growth, Shivraj Singh Chouhan agriculture speech, Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, foodgrain production in India, pulses and oilseeds research in India, ICAR awards 2025, agriculture innovation in India, and farmer welfare in India.
