ICAR to Launch 100 Seed Varieties and Farm Technologies in 100 Days

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) aims to introduce 100 new seed varieties and 100 farm technologies within 100 days, focusing on climate-resilient and biofortified crops. ICAR seeks Prime Minister Narendra Modi's endorsement for these innovations. Additionally, new 'seed hubs' for high-yield oilseeds and pulses are planned to address penetration issues.

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is set to unveil 100 new seed varieties and an equal number of farm technologies within a 100-day deadline. This ambitious initiative forms part of the government's 100-day action plan, focusing on climate-resilient and biofortified seed varieties, along with advanced farm technologies.

ICAR Director General Himanshu Pathak, during the institute's 96th Foundation and Technology Day celebrations, highlighted the key action plans—'100 new seed varieties in 100 days' and '100 technologies in 100 days'. ICAR is also seeking Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s endorsement for these innovations, with anticipated approval by mid-September.

Expanding on the scope of the project, Pathak noted the establishment of 'seed hubs' to improve the adoption of high-yield seed varieties at the farm level. The plan includes specific hubs for oilseeds and pulses across several districts. The ongoing celebrations also feature the showcasing of 40 new technologies with plans to commercialize them through 10 MoUs, involving around 100 industry players.