The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) celebrated its 98th Foundation Day in New Delhi, highlighting its achievements in advancing science-led, climate-resilient and farmer-centric agriculture.
Addressing the event, Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said ICAR developed 386 improved varieties across 44 crops during the past year, of which 94% are climate-resilient and 29 are biofortified.
He emphasized the need for demand-driven research, self-reliance in pulses and oilseeds, commercialization of technologies and wider dissemination through Krishi Vigyan Kendras.
ICAR Director General Dr M.L. Jat said agricultural research generated an estimated economic value of ?55,000 crore, while increased production across crops, horticulture, livestock and fisheries added nearly ?1.70 lakh crore to the economy during 2025-26. Scientific technologies reached nearly one crore farmers directly and over five crore through media platforms.
During the celebration, ICAR released 43 improved crop varieties, 17 advanced agricultural technologies and 14 publications. It also signed 72 MoUs with 51 industry partners to accelerate technology commercialization and transfer innovations to farmers.
The event reaffirmed ICAR’s commitment to supporting sustainable agriculture and the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 through research, innovation and strategic partnerships.
