Primary agendas included tackling agri problems and exploring private partnership for agricultural research funding
The 111th Foundation Course for Agricultural Research Service (FOCARS) was held on November 12, 2020 at the ICAR-National Academy of Agricultural Research Management, Hyderabad.
Dr Trilochan Mohapatra, Secretary, Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) & Director General, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) interacted with the Scientist-Probationers undergoing the course and urged them to take cognizance of the various concerns associated in the Indian agricultural sector and come up with innovative ideas to address them. Mohapatra highlighted the need for building the core competencies in preparing competitive project proposals, science communication, nurturing agri-entrepreneurs, developing start ups and using frontier tools like IoT, AI and Block Chain Technology.
He also outlined the initiatives taken for enhancing the production of pulses and oilseeds in the past 4 to 5 years and reiterated the Government’s resolve to achieve self-sufficiency in oilseeds by 2030. The Director General stressed on the need for engagements with private sector for the funding of agricultural research.
Dr Ch Srinivas Rao, Director, ICAR-NAARM, Hyderabad highlighted the major innovations introduced in the program for imparting the contemporary skills to match the new normal under the COVID-19 Pandemic situation.
The Directors of ICAR Institutions, State Agricultural Universities, Eminent Agricultural Scientists from across the country along with Progressive Farmers virtually participated in the program.
