Third Phase of MDP for KVK Heads of Zone V Concludes at ICAR–ATARI, Kolkata

3–7 March 2026, Kolkata

The third and final phase of the Management Development Programme (MDP) for newly recruited Senior Scientists and Heads of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) of Zone V concluded successfully at ICAR–Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Kolkata.

The comprehensive three-phase programme was jointly conceptualized and implemented by the Agricultural Extension Division, ICAR, ICAR–National Academy of Agricultural Research Management, and ICAR–ATARIs, exclusively for newly appointed Senior Scientist and Head-level functionaries of KVKs.

Addressing the participants, Dr Pradip Dey, Director, ICAR–ATARI, Kolkata, outlined a forward-looking vision for transforming KVKs into dynamic district-level agri-technology hubs. He emphasized the integration of innovation with ecological sustainability, gender inclusivity, and environmental stewardship. Aligning with the national vision for Viksit Bharat @2047, he called upon KVK Heads to act as change agents at the grassroots level by implementing context-specific, farmer-centric interventions with strategic clarity.

In his presentation on “Crafting Design Thinking for Streamlined Leadership,” Dr Dey highlighted modern management approaches such as value stream mapping, Kaizen, Lean management, and Six Sigma. He stressed the importance of embedding efficiency, precision, and a culture of continuous improvement within extension systems to enhance their effectiveness and outreach.

Participants reflected on the learnings from the earlier phases of the programme, describing them as a source of motivation and direction for their future roles.

Building on these insights, the trainees were assigned outcome-oriented tasks, including the preparation of project proposals for resource mobilization, advancing the “One District, One Product” initiative, and identifying discipline-specific contributions to district-level development and innovation. Key administrative and financial aspects related to these assignments were also discussed to facilitate effective implementation.

The programme concluded with a renewed commitment among participants to strengthen the role of KVKs in delivering impactful, technology-driven agricultural extension services at the grassroots level.

(Source: ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Kolkata)