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HomePosts Tagged "ICRISAT"
Agro Universities, India, R&D

Research offers next-generation research and practical innovations using beneficial microorganisms to restore soil health, boost crop yields, and drastically cut dependence on chemical inputs in dryland farming systems.

As the world confronts the twin crises of climate change and land degradation, a silent revolution is taking root beneath our feet. A groundbreaking publication by scientists at the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) launched at CGIAR Science Week in Nairobi, unveils a powerful new ally in the quest for sustainable agriculture: microbes.

Titled “Microbial Solutions for Advancing Nature-Positive and Regenerative Agriculture in Drylands,” the compendium based on ICRISAT’s decades of research offers next-generation research and practical innovations using beneficial microorganisms to restore soil health, boost crop yields, and drastically cut dependence on chemical inputs in dryland farming systems.

From plant growth-promoting bacteria and biofertilizers to biopesticides and microbial consortia that help sequester carbon, ICRISAT’s research lays out a clear and science-backed path toward building more resilient, productive, and eco-friendly food systems.

Speaking at Science Week, Dr Himanshu Pathak, Director General of ICRISAT, applauded the study as a timely breakthrough and emphasized that microbes are nature’s original architects—engineers of soil health, resilience, and regeneration.

This publication signals a decisive move away from chemical dependency toward microbial-driven regeneration—an innovation that restores soil health, safeguards the environment, and protects human well-being.

I urge all stakeholders to accelerate its adoption as a cornerstone of sustainable agriculture,” said Dr Pathak.

ICRISAT’s work demonstrates how bacteria like Rhizobium, Streptomyces, and Pseudomonas are being harnessed across Asia and Africa to:

Increase nitrogen and phosphorus uptake in crops like chickpea, pigeonpea, and pearl millet

Recarbonize soils through aerobic composting

Control devastating pests like the cotton bollworm using microbial biopesticides

Enhance micronutrient content in staple crops through microbial biofortification

Reduce greenhouse gas emissions with microbial consortia that promote carbon sequestration

“This is not just science in the lab. It’s innovation in the hands of farmers. By working with nature instead of against it, we’re helping smallholder farmers build resilience against droughts, restore biodiversity, and grow healthier food,” said Dr Stanford Blade, DDG – ​ Research and Innovation at ICRISAT.

A One-Health Approach for a Planet in Peril

The report also supports a “One Health” framework—acknowledging the interconnectedness of soil, plant, animal, human, and environmental health.

ICRISAT Director of Resilient Farm and Food Systems, Dr ML Jat, said through this lens, ICRISAT’s microbial innovations are not just agricultural interventions but public health and climate actions.

“Nearly 2 billion people live in dryland areas—often the first to face hunger, poor soil, and environmental decline.

“ICRISAT’s microbial solutions offer them a sustainable and scalable roadmap out of vulnerability, and we will continue to push the frontiers of science to deliver innovations that restore soils, secure livelihoods, and drive nature-positive development across the drylands” concluded Dr Jat.

Research offers next-generation research and practical innovations

Institutions

The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) successfully hosted a two-day National IP Yatra on 10 -11 March 2025, at the College of Veterinary Sciences, Assam Agricultural University, Guwahati. This significant event was organized by the Intellectual Property Facilitation Cell (IPFC) with support from the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India

The National IP Yatra served as a pivotal platform for in-depth discussions on intellectual property (IP), innovation, funding, and policy frameworks. With participation from 222 individuals, including industry leaders, legal experts, startup mentors, government representatives, and innovators, the event fostered an engaged dialogue addressing key challenges and opportunities within India’s IP landscape.

The primary objective of the National IP Yatra was to create a knowledge-sharing platform for MSMEs, startups, and researchers. Participants gained insights into effectively leveraging IP as a business tool. Key discussions focused on bridging IP awareness gaps, accessing funding opportunities, strengthening India’s IP policies, and exploring strategies for international expansion.

The event featured an exceptional lineup of experts including seasoned legal professionals, government officials, startup incubator heads, IP strategists, and funding experts.

The first day focused on strengthening India’s IP landscape by bridging awareness gaps and enhancing policy frameworks to support MSMEs and startups. Experts emphasized the challenges businesses face in understanding and utilizing IP as a strategic asset, which often leads to missed funding opportunities and market expansion. Various aspects of public-private partnerships and knowledge transfer from academia to the industry were also discussed.

The second day was dedicated to leveraging IP for funding, investment, and international expansion. Government funding options and institutional financing for IP-driven startups were discussed while experts also highlighted challenges such as accessing grants and the banks’ reluctance to accept IP as collateral.

Additionally, conversations addressed how investors view IP-backed businesses and the necessity for startups to align their IP strategies with market demands. The final session tackled global expansion challenges including international patent protection and data privacy laws.

The National IP Yatra in Assam reinforced the importance of a well-structured IP strategy for scaling businesses beyond India. ICRISAT remains committed to fostering innovation and supporting the growth of MSMEs and small innovators through an enhanced understanding of intellectual property rights.

The International Crops Research Institute for the

Agro Universities, India, Nature, Sustainability

The program brought together 24 participants from 14 countries—Ghana, Tajikistan, South Sudan, Myanmar, Morocco, Ethiopia, Cambodia, Liberia, Mali, Chad, Sri Lanka, Lesotho, Iran, and the Philippines.

A transformative three-week International Training on Landscape Resource Conservation concluded today at the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), strengthening south-south collaboration in the global fight against land degradation and climate change.

The program brought together 24 participants from 14 countries—Ghana, Tajikistan, South Sudan, Myanmar, Morocco, Ethiopia, Cambodia, Liberia, Mali, Chad, Sri Lanka, Lesotho, Iran, and the Philippines—to tackle critical challenges such as land restoration, carbon neutrality, and smallholder farming sustainability.

Organized by ICRISAT, under the aegis of the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Program of the Government of India and supported by ICRISAT’s Dryland Academy, the program provided a platform for sharing global best practices.

Addressing participants, Dr Stanford Blade, Director General-Interim of ICRISAT, highlighted the importance of two-way knowledge exchange and encouraged continued collaboration beyond the workshop.

“This training is not just an academic exercise; it embodies the spirit of South-South collaboration. I urge you to stay connected and build on this resource base to drive meaningful change,” Dr Blade emphasized. He also acknowledged the support of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, for facilitating the program.

Dr ML Jat, Deputy Director General-Research (Acting) and Global Program Director, Resilient Farm and Food Systems, ICRISAT, encouraged participants to translate their learnings into tangible actions.

“When you return to your countries, consider how you can apply these insights to benefit your communities. We deeply appreciate the support of your governments and institutions in sponsoring your participation,” said Dr Jat.

At the inaugural session, Dr Ramesh Singh, Principal Scientist & Cluster Lead-ICRISAT Development Center, provided an overview of the course, while ICRISAT’s Global Research Program Directors, Dr Sean Mayes and Dr Victor Afari-Sefa, emphasized the role of collaborative research in addressing global challenges.

The training covered key themes such as landscape hydrology, land resource inventory, natural resource management (NRM) structures, digital tools for landscape management, water budgeting, climate-resilient agriculture, sustainable farming practices, and nutrient management.

The program brought together 24 participants from

Agro Universities, India

Training Programs aim to equip decision-makers with tools to scale climate-resilient and sustainable farming systems.

ICRISAT launched the first in a series of international training programs on 20 January 2025 to equip decision-makers with tools to scale climate-resilient and sustainable farming systems.

The training program, which concluded on 31 January 2025, is supported by the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) – Government of India program. It spotlights South-South collaboration and adopts the ‘Systems Approach’ and tools for addressing agricultural challenges under the aegis of the CGIAR Science Program on Sustainable Farming.

Participants from 12 countries—Ethiopia, Sri Lanka, Mali, Kenya, Nigeria, Cambodia, Nepal, Ghana, Ecuador, Fiji, Philippines, and Tajikistan—converged for the training. Representing ministries, research institutes, and universities, they engaged in hands-on sessions designed to foster solutions for smallholder farmers worldwide and undertook field visits to action sites.

Dr Shalander Kumar, Deputy Global Research Program Director of the Enabling Systems Transformation Program, ICRISAT, provided context, highlighting the training’s role as a platform for collaboration that facilitates cross-learning to devise solutions that support the investment decisions of smallholder farmers.

Living South-South Collaboration

Guest of Honor Dr Stanford F Blade, Director General-Interim of ICRISAT, described the training as a “living example of South-South collaboration.” He acknowledged the challenges in addressing the constantly evolving problems faced by farmers compounded by climate change and emphasized the importance of leveraging tools and a systems approach to navigate complexities.

Building Knowledge and Networks

Dr ML Jat, Acting Deputy Director General-Research and Global Research Program Director – Resilient Farm and Food Systems at ICRISAT, emphasized the Systems Approach.

“Addressing agro-ecosystem complexities requires tailored solutions, as one size does not fit all. ICRISAT’s research spans the entire agriculture value chain, with its programs deeply interlinked,” shared Dr Jat. “We sincerely thank the Ministry of External Affairs for its support in fostering bilateral collaboration to enhance South-South learning. Four more training sessions are planned, extending through mid-year.”

Dr Victor Afari-Sefa, Global Research Program Director of the Enabling Systems Transformation Program at ICRISAT, highlighted the seamless integration of theory and practice in the decision-making tools introduced during the training.

Dr Padmaja Ravula, Cluster Leader for Knowledge and Capacity Development & Gender and Youth at ICRISAT, delivered the vote of thanks, lauding the diversity in gender, expertise, and regional representation among participants.

A Platform for Lasting Impact

This training program reflects ICRISAT’s dedication to empowering dryland communities through transformative research and capacity building. Through fostering networks and equipping participants with actionable tools, the program aims to drive meaningful, sustainable changes in agricultural practices worldwide.

Training Programs aim to equip decision-makers with

AgroPolicy, Collaborations

As India intensifies efforts to fight hunger and malnutrition, the Tata-Cornell Institute (TCI) and ICRISAT are helping policymakers with evidence-based strategies to include millet in the Public Distribution System (PDS) which provides food subsidies to low-income families

Known as “Smart Foods,” millets are globally celebrated for being nutrient-rich and climate-resilient.

Alongside staples like rice and wheat, they provide important benefits for food security and nutrition, yet their inclusion in the PDS remains largely underutilized. To advance solutions, a TCI forum on ‘Promoting Millets in the PDS’ was hosted at ICRISAT’s Hyderabad campus, bringing together key participants from across the country.

The event featured an opening address by Dr Prabhu Pingali, ICRISAT Board Chair and Director of the Tata-Cornell Institute. Professor Prabhu Pingali said that novel insights were leading to reforms, helping to pave the way for a more effective and future-ready Public Distribution System in India. “With the potential of cash-based vouchers, families can gain the freedom to choose the nutritious foods they need, such as millet, rather than being limited to fixed staples, increasing demand for these nutritious grains and sending a strong price signal to millet producers to increase supply,” said Dr Pingali.

Through its project on the true cost of food subsidies in India, TCI has estimated the hidden costs associated with the PDS.

In a study published in Environmental Research Letters, researchers show that the true cost of the PDS in 2021-22 was $45.3 billion when the economic and environmental impacts of rice and wheat production were considered, compared with $16.5 billion budgeted by the federal government. They further demonstrated that replacing 1 kilogram of rice with millets for 200 million PDS beneficiaries would shrink the program’s true cost by $1.37 billion each year. Dr Stanford Blade, Director General-Interim, ICRISAT, emphasized the need to build on the momentum created by the International Year of Millets-2023 and ICRISAT’s Smart Food campaign. “This discussion is crucial for integrating millets into the Public Distribution System and avoiding the exclusivity that occurred with quinoa,’ said Dr. Blade.

Mr Manoj Kumar, CEO of the Naandi Foundation, moderated the session. Dr Raghav Puri, a Research Associate at the Tata-Cornell Institute, shared statistics on millet production and consumption in India, highlighting the potential to revive millet cultivation in traditional growing regions where it has declined. Ms Priya Rampal (Oxford Policy Management), Ms Bhagya Laxmi (WASSAN NGO), and Mr Dinesh Balam (Odisha Millet Mission) discussed challenges and opportunities in millet procurement and distribution in Karnataka, Telangana, and Odisha. Active participation by ICRISAT scientists provided valuable insights from the field.

As India intensifies efforts to fight hunger

Digital Technologies, E-commerce, IT, R&D

ICRISAT, in collaboration with ICAR and NAAS, hosts two-day conference on Digital Agriculture to shape strategic roadmap for the sector

ICRISAT recently held a two-day National Conference on “Digital Agriculture: Empowering Indian Farming” in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS) at the A.P. Shinde Symposium Hall, New Delhi.

The conference, held from 17 to 18 December 2024, brought together a vibrant community of thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, researchers, and industry stakeholders focused on charting the future course of digital agriculture in India by leveraging advancements in rural digital infrastructure.

Supported by the CGIAR Initiative on Digital Innovation the conference welcomed approximately 120 participants representing over 40 institutes spanning research, academia, and the private and public sectors.

In September 2024, the Government of India launched its Digital Agriculture Mission with an ambitious budget of INR 2,817 crores. This mission aims to build Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and support various initiatives, including the Agri Stack, digital crop surveys, and cyber decision support systems. The conference offered a timely platform for stakeholders to collaborate and develop a strategic roadmap for the mission’s implementation.

“To build a resilient and food-secure future, we must transcend borders and foster a global exchange of technologies, knowledge, and innovations. By collaborating as a global community, we can ensure that no farmer, regardless of location, is left behind in this digital transformation. Together, we can create an inclusive, sustainable, and adaptable agricultural ecosystem that benefits farmers globally,” stated Dr Pathak.

Dr M.L. Jat, Global Research Program Director – Resilient Farm and Food Systems, ICRISAT presented an overview of CGIAR’s digital innovations and initiatives on enhancing decision-making, bridging the digital divide, and promoting gender equity in agri-food systems.

Stressing the need for better collaboration between national and international research bodies, he advocated for alignment with the global SDGs for broader impact. Dr Jat also proposed the establishment of a Virtual Academy for Digital Agriculture, a dedicated platform for training to address the gaps in skill development among farmers and extension agents. The event laid a strong foundation for a future where Indian agriculture advances through the integration of data, AI, and smart technologies, ensuring resilience and prosperity for farming communities.

ICRISAT, in collaboration with ICAR and NAAS,

Agro Universities, Allied Industry, Biofuel industry, Environment, India, Nature, R&D, Sustainability, Sustainable Energy

As fuel prices climb and climate goals intensify, the world needs fresh solutions. The latest contender is sweet sorghum, a resilient, high-sugar-content crop poised to power up the biofuel industry without draining food supplies. With its unique ability to grow on degraded soils, withstand drought conditions, and produce both bioethanol from stalk and grain and electricity from the crashed bagasse, sweet sorghum is capturing global attention as a cleaner, greener energy source

Traditional biofuels rely on food crops such as maize, sugarcane, and oilseeds, contributing to food price hikes and threatening food security. Sweet sorghum, with multiple uses for food, feed, fuel, and fodder, however, offers an alternative that grows fast, uses fewer resources, and reduces emissions. With optimal production each hectare has the potential to save more than 3,500 L of crude oil and to reduce CO₂ emissions by 1.4 to 22 kg equivalents, making it a standout in energy and environmental impact.

Biofuel consumption is skyrocketing worldwide, with demand projected to hit 203 million metric tons in 2024. Ethanol and biodiesel consumption is expected to reach nearly 224 million metric tons by 2030. Leading markets like the United States, Brazil, and Europe are joined by fast-growing consumers such as India and China, creating a strong market pull for sustainable biofuel solutions. Sweet sorghum’s adaptability to various climates and marginal lands makes it an ideal candidate to meet this surge, ensuring energy needs are met without compromising food supplies.

Beyond its positive environmental impact on reduction in water use and CO₂ emissions, sweet sorghum provides new income streams for smallholder farmers in developing regions. Farmers can grow it in two seasons, generating revenue from both grain and stalk juice for biofuel production. Recognizing this opportunity, ICRISAT and its partners have developed a Target Product Profile (TPP) incorporating market-preferred traits such as high biomass yield, thick and lodging-tolerant stalks with juicy internodes, juice with high total soluble solids (Brix) content, a high percentage of extractable juice, and an extended harvest season. Future research should prioritize enhancing adaptability, yield, and quality (Brix and digestibility); prolonging the shelf life of sweet sorghum stalks and juice; minimizing the trade-off between higher Brix content and grain yield; investing in second-generation (2G) and sustainable aviation biofuels; and scaling up biofuel value chains.

The sweet sorghum cultivars could potentially cover the new market segment with an estimated area of 25 million ha in Asia, Africa, and South America, helping farmers tap into biofuel markets and improve their livelihoods.

As global climate action heats up, sweet sorghum is set to play a pivotal role in the green energy landscape. Continued research should enhance its yield, shelf life, and versatility, promising an even brighter future for this crop. With its potential to power economies and reduce emissions, sweet sorghum is no longer just a crop—it is a catalyst for a cleaner, more sustainable world.

As fuel prices climb and climate goals

Collaborations, R&D, Sustainability

ICRISAT was granted its first industrial design in India for a Solar-Powered Water Hyacinth Harvester developed by a team of scientists. The harvester is simple, affordable, and can be efficiently managed by semi-skilled or unskilled personnel

The solar-powered equipment, designed and fabricated in-house, is an affordable solution priced at under Rs 200,000, making it ideal for rural farming communities that cannot afford sophisticated machinery costing 10 times as much. It offers substantial benefits, including 50–60 per cent savings in cost, time, and labor, while prioritizing using clean energy.

Water hyacinth infestations in rural ponds disrupt ecosystems, harm fisheries, and block canals. Their rapid growth and long-lasting seeds make eradication difficult. Just 8–10 plants can proliferate into over 600,000 plants within 6–8 months.

Dr Stanford Blade, Director General-Interim of ICRISAT, commended the team behind the mechanical harvester, stating, “Water hyacinth infestation is a global environmental challenge. This cost-effective harvester reflects ICRISAT’s dedication to creating environment-friendly solutions tailored to the needs of rural communities that are also technologically and economically sustainable.”

ICRISAT’s harvester, categorized as agricultural machinery, was developed as part of the project “Sustainable Valorisation of Water Hyacinth Biomass through Aerobic Composting as a Rural Enterprise—A Waste to Wealth Initiative,” supported by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, Government of Odisha, India.

“Local stakeholders, especially women self-help groups (SHGs), can play a key role in converting biomass into compost, fish feed, or handmade paper. These women-led enterprises can generate alternative livelihoods and boost inland fisheries, creating significant socio-economic and environmental impacts,” said Dr Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Principal Secretary, Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment, Government of Odisha.

Dr Aviraj Datta, the project’s principal investigator, led the development of the harvester, ably supported by ICRISAT staff Dr Mangi Lal Jat, Dr Ramesh Singh, Mr Hari Om Singh, Mr Santhosh Kumar Raja, Mr Yogesh Kumar, and Mr Jinith Mahajhan. The ICRISAT Intellectual Property (IP) office facilitated the evaluation and filing of the application with the Design Registry, India, ensuring due diligence throughout the process.

ICRISAT was granted its first industrial design

Agro Universities, India, R&D, Sustainable Energy, Water

The solar-powered equipment, designed and fabricated in-house, is an affordable solution priced at under Rs 200,000, making it ideal for rural farming communities.

ICRISAT was granted its first industrial design in India for a Solar-Powered Water Hyacinth Harvester developed by a team of scientists. The harvester is simple, affordable, and can be efficiently managed by semi-skilled or unskilled personnel.

The solar-powered equipment, designed and fabricated in-house, is an affordable solution priced at under Rs 200,000, making it ideal for rural farming communities that cannot afford sophisticated machinery costing 10 times as much. It offers substantial benefits, including 50–60 per cent savings in cost, time, and labour, while prioritising using clean energy.

Water hyacinth infestations in rural ponds disrupt ecosystems, harm fisheries, and block canals. Their rapid growth and long-lasting seeds make eradication difficult. Just 8–10 plants can proliferate into over 600,000 plants within 6–8 months.

Chemical and biological removal of the weed have proved expensive and effective only in the short term. The only way to control the weed sustainably is through periodic harvesting, either manually or mechanically.

Dr Stanford Blade, Director General-Interim of ICRISAT, commended the team behind the mechanical harvester, stating, “Water hyacinth infestation is a global environmental challenge. This cost-effective harvester reflects ICRISAT’s dedication to creating environment-friendly solutions tailored to the needs of rural communities that are also technologically and economically sustainable.”

Turning Waste into Wealth

ICRISAT’s harvester, categorized as agricultural machinery, was developed as part of the project “Sustainable Valorisation of Water Hyacinth Biomass through Aerobic Composting as a Rural Enterprise—A Waste to Wealth Initiative,” supported by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, Government of Odisha, India.

“Experiments conducted by ICRISAT demonstrate that 72,000 kg of water hyacinth biomass can be mechanically harvested from a 3-acre (1.2-hectare) pond in just 2–3 days by a team of two or three people. In contrast, manual harvesting requires 10–20 laborers and takes 18–20 days to complete,” said Dr ML Jat, Research Program Director of Resilient Farm and Food Systems, ICRISAT.

“Local stakeholders, especially women self-help groups (SHGs), can play a key role in converting biomass into compost, fish feed, or handmade paper. These women-led enterprises can generate alternative livelihoods and boost inland fisheries, creating significant socio-economic and environmental impacts,” said Dr Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Principal Secretary, Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment, Government of Odisha.

The people behind the innovation

Dr Aviraj Datta, the project’s principal investigator, led the development of the harvester, ably supported by ICRISAT staff Dr Mangi Lal Jat, Dr Ramesh Singh, Hari Om Singh, Santhosh Kumar Raja, Yogesh Kumar, and Jinith Mahajan.

The ICRISAT Intellectual Property (IP) office facilitated the evaluation and filing of the application with the Design Registry, India, ensuring due diligence throughout the process.

The solar-powered equipment, designed and fabricated in-house,

Agro Universities, Agrotech, Climate, Collaborations, Environment, R&D, Soil Health, Sustainability

Twenty-three agricultural scientists from six countries in Asia and Africa participated in a hands-on workshop to enhance their skills in using modern modeling tools. The aim was to build participants’ capacity to analyze the complexities of mixed farming systems and devise sustainable solutions

The workshop, held from 25 to 29 November at ICRISAT Headquarters, was organized by the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) under the CGIAR Initiative on Sustainable Intensification of Mixed Farming Systems (SI-MFS). It was conducted in collaboration with the ICAR-Indian Institute of Farming Systems Research (IIFSR) and the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Centre (CIMMYT).

The goal of the workshop was to promote the sustainable intensification of mixed farming systems by integrating systems thinking, incorporating environmental, economic, and social dimensions into bundled solutions, and using tools like Crop-Livestock Enterprise Modeling (CLEM) and Farm Design. These approaches help evaluate solutions, understand trade-offs and synergies, and support resilient, inclusive, and profitable smallholder farming.

Dr Santiago Lopez Ridaura, co-lead of the CGIAR’s SI-MFS, highlighted the complexity of small-scale farms, which often feature a diverse mix of crops, intercrops, livestock, and both on-farm and off-farm enterprises. He emphasized the need for an interdisciplinary approach to understanding system dynamics and trade-offs.

Highlighting the progress in India, Dr Sunil Kumar, Director of ICAR-IIFSR, spoke about the 75 prototype models developed for various zones and the importance of bridging the lab-to-land gap while aligning with policies. “Scaling solutions requires understanding on-the-ground constraints and strong policy backing,” said Dr Sunil Kumar, referencing their upcoming International Conference on 28 February 2025.

Dr Stanford Blade, Director General-Interim and Deputy Director General-Research at ICRISAT, stressed the need for balanced interventions. “A single intervention can sometimes unintentionally disrupt other parts of the system. Utilizing systems tools is essential for analyzing trade-offs and achieving sustainable, balanced solutions,” said Dr Blade.

Dr ML Jat, ICRISAT’s Research Program Director for Resilient Farm and Food Systems, emphasized the importance of scaling farm-level innovations to the landscape level and designing carbon-neutral farming systems.

Dr Shalander Kumar, Deputy Global Research Program Director of Enabling Systems Transformation, highlighted the workshop’s collaborative nature.

The International Training Workshop on Modern Approaches in Systems Analysis for Designing Actionable Systemic Strategies Towards Sustainable Mixed Farming Systems brought together scientists from CGIAR institutions and National Agricultural Research Systems from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Laos, Malawi, and Zimbabwe.

Participants also visited smallholder farms in Latur, Maharashtra, to observe the practical applications of ICRISAT’s work.

Twenty-three agricultural scientists from six countries in

Climate, Institutions, Interaction, R&D, Soil Health, Sustainability

ICRISAT’s soil lab in India and its offices across East and West Africa, dedicated to revitalizing dryland soils, will significantly contribute to regional priorities, including digital soil mapping, sustainable soil management guidelines, and robust soil information systems

ICRISAT is forging stronger ties between Asia and Africa to advance soil health technology and practices. Dr Pushpajeet Choudhari, Soil Scientist at ICRISAT and Chair of the Asian Soil Laboratory Network (SEALNET), represented the organization at the 8th Global Soil Laboratory Network (GLOSOLAN) meeting held at FAO Headquarters in Rome.

Building on its active membership in SEALNET, ICRISAT is set to align efforts with the African Soil Laboratory Network (AFRILAB) and NARS partners. Elh Moudi Moustapha Abdourahaman (GLOSOLAN Chair), and Dr Choudhari discussed plans to bolster ICRISAT’s African soil laboratories, aligning them with the AFRILAB network to further strengthen regional soil health initiatives.

ICRISAT’s Charles Renard Analytical Laboratory (CRAL) has been engaged in soil and water analysis since 1978. Registered in GLOSOLAN since 2019, the lab delivers high quality analytical service for farmers and other stakeholders. CRAL, as a member of ​ SEALNET, has been engaged in developing and harmonizing analytical methods in compliance with FAO GLOSOLAN.

During the meeting, Dr Choudhari, Soil Scientist at ICRISAT and Chair of the Asian Soil Laboratory Network (SEALNET), updated GLOSOLAN delegates on SEALNET’s progress, which now includes 193 labs across 20 countries, with 40 new labs added in 2024 from Indonesia. He highlighted key outcomes from the 8th SEALNET meeting, focusing on knowledge-sharing and harmonizing soil testing methods across the region.

ICRISAT’s soil lab in India and its

Agribusiness, AgroPolicy, Climate, Environment, Institutions, Interaction, R&D, Sustainability

This compendium, developed through Govt of Odisha partnership with ICRISAT, is an essential tool for scaling regenerative agriculture practices tailored to the local context, especially for key crops such as millets, pulses, and oilseeds

A ‘Compendium of Regenerative Agriculture’ developed by ICRISAT in partnership with the Government of Odisha was launched on 10 November 2024 during the International Symposium on Shree Anna and Forgotten Foods held in Bhubaneshwar. This high-level event was graced by prominent dignitaries, including the Chief Minister of Odisha Mohan Charan Majhi, and his entourage of officials.

The publication was officially released by Dr Arabinda K Padhee, Principal Secretary of Agriculture, Odisha, Mr Hemant Sharma, Principal Secretary of MSME and Energy, Odisha, Dr Tara Satyavathi, Director of ICAR-IIMR, and Dr ML Jat, Research Program Director of Resilient Farm and Food Systems. This resource, a product of ICRISAT’s innovation project on carbon credits supported by the Department of Agriculture and Farmer’s Empowerment, Government of Odisha, aligns with the CGIAR Initiative on Agroecology and serves as a roadmap for sustainable agricultural transformation.

Speaking at the launch, Dr Padhee stated that as the global community renews its focus on regenerative agriculture, Odisha is leading science-based agricultural transformation.

“The Government of Odisha’s commitment to regenerative agriculture is a decisive step toward a resilient and sustainable future—one that nurtures farmers’ livelihoods, restores ecosystems, and strengthens communities,” said Dr Stanford Blade, Director General-Interim and Deputy Director General-Research, ICRISAT.

The publication highlights five key principles of regenerative agriculture: minimizing soil disturbance, maximizing crop diversity, maintaining soil cover, keeping living roots year-round, and integrating livestock. Each principle is explored in-depth, emphasizing its role in enhancing soil health, increasing carbon sequestration, and building resilience against climate challenges. By providing a holistic view of these practices, the compendium underscores the importance of moving beyond traditional farming techniques to cultivate healthier ecosystems.

It was a proud moment for ICRISAT when Rajput GPLF from Koraput district was honored as one of the top three Self Help Groups for its millet-based enterprises. In collaboration with Odisha Livelihoods Mission (OLM) and Mission Shakti, ICRISAT helped establish the millet processing unit in Koraput, operated by Rajput GPLF. Since 2023, this unit has provided nutritious meals to over 3,500 children. This recognition highlights the impactful collaboration between ICRISAT, the community, and state and district initiatives in advancing nutrition and food security.

Over 400 participants, including representatives from FAO, WFP, CGIAR, ICAR, and Farmer Producer Organizations, attended the event in Odisha.

This compendium, developed through Govt of Odisha

Agro Universities, India, Interaction

Key stakeholders, including government officials, industry leaders, and ICRISAT scientists, attended the panel discussion.

A delegation from the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Telangana engaged in a focused panel discussion and interactive session with ICRISAT to explore collaboration opportunities in agriculture and food processing in Hyderabad. Key stakeholders, including government officials, industry leaders, and ICRISAT scientists, attended.

The interactive session held at the ICRISAT auditorium focused on exploring collaborative opportunities. It featured insights from M Raghunandan Rao, IAS, Secretary, Department of Agriculture, Government of Telangana; Dr Krishna Ella, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of Bharat Biotech; and Dr Stanford Blade, Interim Director General and Deputy Director General-Research at ICRISAT; Prof V Praveen Rao, Advisor, CII Telangana Agri & Food Processing Panel & Vice-Chancellor; Kaveri University and D Sunil Reddy, Co-Convenor, CII Telangana Agri & Food Processing Panel & Managing Director Dodla Dairy Pvt. Ltd

M Raghunandan Rao, IAS, Secretary, Department of Agriculture, Government of Telangana, said that mechanisation of agriculture will increase efficiencies, and value addition will increase sustainability. Farmers could come together and opt for mechanization. Farming has to provide social benefits to the population as it has to be an environmental system. In the Indian context, where farm sizes are small, sustainability discussions must prioritise farmers. Our efforts should focus on creating systems that ensure sustainable incomes for smallholder farmers.

Dr Stanford Blade, Interim Director General and Deputy Director General-Research at ICRISAT, remarked, “ICRISAT and CII are natural partners in advancing agricultural and food processing innovation. The combined strengths of ICRISAT’s research expertise and CII’s strong connections with industry, government, and civil society offer great potential for driving sustainable development in India’s agricultural sector.”

Dr Krishna Ella, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of Bharat Biotech International Ltd., said that in the Indian context, given that our farmers are large and our farms are small, we must build algorithms and concepts that will keep the sustainability of the farmer’s income in mind. He stressed the need for convergence in agriculture, particularly amid reduced funding. He urged government intervention to foster partnerships between state agricultural universities and ICRISAT, advocating for collaboration, streamlining, and consolidation to optimise resources and impact.

Sai Prasad, Chairman of CII Telangana and Executive Director at Bharat Biotech International Ltd., invited ICRISAT to join CII’s Food and Agriculture Panel. He emphasized leveraging ICRISAT’s research capabilities for Telangana.

Prof. V Praveen Rao, Advisor to the CII Telangana Agri & Food Processing Panel, highlighted the transformative potential of nurturing small enterprises. He stated that with 6.5 million farmers in Telangana, even enabling 0.1 million Micro-Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) could significantly improve livelihoods.

D Sunil Reddy, Co-Convenor of the CII Telangana Agri & Food Processing Panel and Managing Director of Dodla Dairy Pvt. Ltd said that we have to look at not only production but also aggregation, processing, distribution, consumption, and waste disposal.

Key stakeholders, including government officials, industry leaders,

Agro Universities, Collaborations, Foodgrains, India, R&D, Sustainability

The initiative aims to produce 20,000 kg of millet seed in 2024-25 and plans to expand further as on-ground capacity continues to grow.

With a groundbreaking focus on food and nutrition security, the Bihar Centre of Excellence for Millets Value Chains is harnessing scientific innovation to unlock the full potential of millet production in the state.The initiative aims to position Bihar as a leader in sustainable agriculture, enhancing crop resilience and supporting livelihoods for millions. Trials of various millet types have been conducted at multiple sites, identifying the top-performing varieties ‘lines’ for expanded trials in 2024 / 2025. As on date, 150 farmers have participated in millet seed production across 34 hectares, and improved seed and training have been provided to over 140 farmers.

The initiative aims to produce 20,000 kg of millet seed in 2024-25 and plans to expand further as on-ground capacity continues to grow.

Speaking from ICRISAT HQ, Global Research Program Director for Accelerated Crop Improvement Dr Sean Mayes said that millet cultivation in Bihar remained limited with only around 8,700 hectares under production, yielding approximately 11,200 tons annually. “In recent years, farmers have faced restricted access to diverse and high-performing millet varieties, which this initiative aims to address through targeted research and innovation. We know this will have a direct impact on food and nutrition security for the most vulnerable in the state, particularly for women and children,” said Dr Mayes.

To support smallholders, the Centre has also introduced on-site millet processing demonstrations, new mechanization tools, and field days, reaching over 1194 farmers including 240 women, with plans for two permanent secondary processing sites in Bihar. A model farm at Mayapur features rainwater harvesting and optimized irrigation and stands as an inspirational resource for local farmers to adopt resilient millet practices.

The Centre is taking further practical steps across six work packages that span the entire millet value chain—from germplasm enhancement and robust seed systems to mechanization, farming systems featuring rainfall storage, product innovation, and market linkages.

ICRISAT’s Interim Director General, Dr Stanford Blade, applauded the Government of Bihar, Dr Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University and Bihar Agricultural University, and ICRISAT teams, and project partners for their progress in advancing the state’s vision for millet development. The Centre is set to reshape Bihar’s food systems, with ICRISAT and its partners directly addressing the state’s food and nutritional security needs, supporting farmer resilience, and establishing a sustainable foundation for agricultural growth.

The initiative aims to produce 20,000 kg