ICAR's Impact on Agricultural Research & Innovation

Introduction to Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR):

  • ICAR was founded in 1929 as a registered society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860
  • This autonomous organisation operates under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
  • It stands as the apex body responsible for coordinating, guiding and managing research and education in diverse sectors including agriculture, horticulture, fisheries and animal sciences across India
  • ICAR, with its innovative research and technology developments, has spearheaded the Green Revolution and subsequent progress in Indian agriculture
  • The headquarters of ICAR is located in New Delhi

 

ICAR

 

A Glimpse into the 'One Scientist-One Product' Program

Why in the News?

  • ICAR's 'One Scientist-One Product' programme will be launched on July 16 to elevate research in the agriculture and animal husbandry sector

Understanding the 'One Scientist-One Product' Program:

  • The design of the program stipulates that each of ICAR's 5521 scientists will be given a task of developing a unique product, a technology, a model, a concept, or a significant publication
  • At the dawn of each year, scientists will set their project and their progress would then be scrutinised quarterly at the institute level and biannually at the headquarters
  • With an initial focus on boosting the production of oilseeds and pulses, the program will run for a span of five years

The Potential Impact and Significance of the Program

  • This new initiative by ICAR is deemed to bring about a transformation in the prodigious field of agricultural and animal husbandry research
  • By allotting individual tasks to each scientist, it will stimulate new ideas, innovation and will pave the path for the development of advanced agricultural productivity solutions
  • Additionally, the program will aid in India's quest to fortify its agricultural yields particularly oilseeds and pulses in the initial stage which has a significant impact on India's agri-economy
  • Regular evaluation of individual progress will ensure accountability and promote a speedy and efficient realisation of the project objectives

In conclusion, the innovative 'One Scientist-One Product' program by ICAR has the potential to strengthen India's agricultural research landscape, central to the country's economy and sustenance.