Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)

Overview:

Established: 1929, under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.

Autonomous Organization: Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.

Headquarters: New Delhi.

Major Functions of ICAR:

• Agricultural research and development in areas like crop sciences, animal sciences, horticulture, fisheries, etc.
• Development of new technologies, practices, and innovations.
• Overseeing agricultural education and maintaining high standards.
• Training for farmers, scientists, and extension workers.
• Advising the government on agricultural policies.
• Dissemination of technology from research to the fields.
• Natural resource management focusing on soil, water, and biodiversity conservation.

"One Scientist, One Product" Scheme

Launch Details:

Launched: 16 July, on the 96th Foundation Day of ICAR.

Objective: To assign each scientist the task of developing one product, technology, or concept.

Duration: 5 years, with a primary focus on oilseeds and pulses.

Target:

• Develop 100 new seed varieties and 100 agricultural technologies in 100 days.
• Since 2014-15, 2,593 high-yielding varieties have been released, including 2,177 climate-resistant varieties and 150 bio-fortified varieties.