Dr. D.G. Dhandar

                                                                                        Director

                With a mandate to develop trend setting approaches for development of vast spreading arid zones in the country, Central Institute for Arid Horticulture (CIAH) was formed under the aegis of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi. Though, it is in its infant stage, the quality of research work, devotion and enthusiasm of scientific as well as technical staff brought the institutes at the levels where it is recognized as the pioneer institute for Horticulture Research in Arid Zones.

Arid Zones after a new avenue for horticultural crops with untapped potential that could be exploited not only for increase in fruit and vegetable production but also for upliftment of socio-economic status of farmers of the regions.

The Basic and applied research for optimal utilization of limited resources, development of elite types that could survive and flourish in adverse conditions and quick technology transfer are the key factors for enhancing horticulture production in these otherwise ignored legions.

There is a need to divert attention towards these highly potential fruit and vegetable growing avenues where cultivation of horticultural crops on scientific lines and latest approaches can change the whole scenario. The institute is committed to innovate methods and technologies for these legions to strengthen the food security programme of the country.

It give one immense pleasure that one institute is making its presence on the Word Wide Web. I hope it will cater the need of the research scholars, extension workers, farmers and organizations who are interested in the prosperity or arid zones.

By making available vital information and scientific guidelines at their disposal, it will certainly help boost the research and extension programmes of the arid zones.

At the same time, I wish the develop team a grand success for their efforts.

(D. G. Dhandar)
Director
CIAH, Bikaner