Team TrickyScribe: ICAR-RCER Patna stands at the forefront of integrating nature, science, and technology to drive holistic agricultural development as it celebrates 25 years of its establishment.
With a focus on farmer empowerment, sustainability, and innovation, the next chapter promises a new era of agricultural transformation for eastern India.
Need for Sustainable and Scientific Farming
Chief Guest Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Secretary, DARE, and DG, ICAR, congratulated the ICAR RCER Patna team on completing 25 years of service to the farming community. Stressing the vast agricultural potential of eastern India, Dr. Pathak urged stakeholders to accelerate progress by adopting climate-resilient and biofortified crop varieties. He emphasized the need for direct engagement with farmers and stronger linkages between scientific advancements and grassroots agricultural practices.
Innovative Approaches for Agricultural Transformation
Dr. B. Rajender (IAS) lauded ICAR-RCER’s farmer-centric approach, particularly its initiatives in greening rice fallow areas and promoting Integrated Farming Systems (IFS). He stressed the need for greater collaboration between policymakers and scientists to create sustainable agricultural solutions. Additionally, he underscored the importance of making technological information accessible in Hindi to ensure broader outreach among farmers.
Second Green Revolution for Eastern India
Dr. A. Velmurugan, ADG (SWM), ICAR, New Delhi, pointed out the unique agricultural challenges in eastern India. He emphasized the urgency of utilizing rice fallow lands to unlock their full potential. Positioning ICAR-RCER as a frontrunner, he envisioned the Second Green Revolution for the region through smart agricultural strategies.
Recalling the institute’s formative years, former ICAR-RCER Director Dr. M.A. Khan reminisced about the foundation stone being laid by Shri Nitish Kumar, then Union Agriculture Minister and now Chief Minister of Bihar. Dr. V.K. Saxena, Director of Research, BASU Patna, called for a comprehensive review of agricultural policies and emphasized stronger collaborations with State Agricultural Universities (SAUs) to drive innovation and sustainable growth.
Empowering Farmers Through Research and Technology
Institute Director Dr. Anup Das showcased ICAR-RCER’s achievements over the past 25 years, emphasizing its role in empowering farmers through research-driven solutions. He outlined priority areas, including increasing oilseed and millet production, improving water and nutrient efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting agri-entrepreneurship. Additionally, he stressed the significance of smart farming technologies such as digital agriculture, drones, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and precision farming to enhance productivity and sustainability.
A Grand Gathering of Farmers and Experts
The event saw an overwhelming response, with over 700 farmers from Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Assam participating alongside 300 scientists, policymakers, and entrepreneurs. The occasion was further marked by the digital inauguration of the Ranchi Guest House and the release of key publications, including:
• “ICAR RCER: 25 Years of Glorious Journey”
• “Crop Production in Changing Climate: POP”
• “Breed Descriptors of Livestock and Poultry Populations of Eastern Region”
• “POP Fruit Crops in Eastern Plateau and Hill Region of India”
A special institute video was also unveiled, highlighting ICAR-RCER’s remarkable contributions to agricultural advancements.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Ujjwal Kumar, Head, DSEE, and Organizing Secretary of the program, as informed by Umesh Kumar Mishra, Member Secretary of the Media Committee.
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