ICAR–IIRR Hosts Industry Interaction Meet 2025

6 November 2025, Hyderabad

ICAR–Indian Institute of Rice Research, Hyderabad, successfully organized its Industry–Interaction Meet 2025 at the institute’s Rajendranagar campus on 6 November 2025.

The programme began with a field visit, where participants viewed displays of innovative products developed through cutting-edge research in genomics, gene editing, and breeding for high-yielding, climate-resilient, and nutrient-rich rice lines. Demonstrations also highlighted advanced screening facilities for false smut and brown spot diseases.

An exhibition showcased the institute’s varietal and hybrid technologies, along with state-of-the-art crop production and protection innovations. These included AI-based rapid automated soil testing devices, automated irrigation water management systems, and novel rice-based products ready for commercialization.

The Chief Guest Dr. D. K. Yadava, Deputy Director General (Crop Science), ICAR, commended ICAR–IIRR’s consistent and systematic efforts in organizing the Industry Meet over the years and acknowledged its positive impact. He appreciated several technologies developed by the institute, including the new DRR Dhan varieties, soil test kits, and leaf colour charts. Dr. Yadava discussed ICAR’s AgriInnovate initiative and provided a detailed overview of the organization’s broader technology commercialization efforts, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with private stakeholders.

Dr. S. K. Pradhan, Assistant Director General (FFC), applauded the institute’s initiative and underscored the need to develop strong product profiles aligned with market segments while emphasizing the importance of continuous dialogue with industry partners.

In his welcome address, Dr. R. M. Sundaram, Director, ICAR–IIRR, highlighted the institute’s major achievements and its mission to strengthen the commercialization ecosystem for its technologies. He also elaborated on recent licensing initiatives undertaken by the institute.

Senior ICAR official reiterated the organization’s commitment to strengthening public–private partnerships to advance agricultural research and accelerate technology transfer. The Industry Meet was described as a significant step toward deepening such collaborations.

During the event, experts presented an overview of the high-yielding rice varieties and hybrids developed by ICAR–IIRR, along with key Crop Production and Crop Protection technologies. Participants were also briefed on the institute’s services and the procedures for accessing ICAR–IIRR technologies.On this occasion, four licensing agreements were signed with private sector partners.

Industry experts expressed appreciation for the institute’s pioneering contributions to rice research, particularly in genome editing and disease management for false smut and brown spot. They also commended Team IIRR for organizing impactful field demonstrations and exhibits that effectively showcased the institute’s technological advancements.

The event witnessed active participation from more than 70 representatives, including seed companies, input industries, start-ups, and aspiring agri-entrepreneurs.

(Source: ICAR–Indian Institute of Rice Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad)