2nd Zonal Meeting on Administrative and Financial Matters Organised

5 January 2026, Cuttack

The 2nd Zonal Meeting on Administrative and Financial Matters was held today at ICAR–Central Rice Research Institute, Cuttack, organized by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. The meeting was chaired by Dr. M. L. Jat, Secretary (DARE) & Director General (ICAR).

Dr. Jat set the perspective on “Team ICAR” and emphasized collective responsibility and institutional strengthening. This was followed by thematic discussions on various administrative and financial issues raised by the participating institutes.

During the afternoon session, Dr. M. L. Jat interacted with the staff members of ICAR–CRRI and highlighted the significant accomplishments achieved during the year 2025, notably India’s advancement in rice production, surpassing China. He also deliberated on emerging challenges, including climate change and soil health degradation, and emphasized the importance of strategic preparedness, innovation, and continuous capacity building through skill enhancement and talent development.

Subsequently, Dr. D.K. Yadav, Deputy Director General (Crop Science), delivered an address on genome editing technologies, rice production under changing climatic scenarios, and integrated insect pest management strategies.

Dr. A.K. Nayak, Deputy Director General (Natural Resource Management) highlighted the key achievements of ICAR–CRRI over the past decade and conveyed his best wishes for the institute’s continued progress and a promising future.

Dr. G. A. K. Kumar, Director, ICAR-CRRI, Cuttack, presented a brief overview of the history and major achievements of the institute.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, reinforcing ICAR’s commitment to excellence in agricultural research and national food security.

(Source: ICAR–Central Rice Research Institute, Cuttack)