Workshop on Application of Agri-Tech for Sustainable Agricultural Development Organised at ICAR-IARI, New Delhi

17 March 2026, New Delhi

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi organized a Workshop-cum-Capacity Building Programme on “Application of Agri-Tech for Sustainable Agricultural Development: A Gender Perspective” today under the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA) project. The programme brought together scientists, experts, and women farmers to deliberate on the transformative role of emerging agricultural technologies in promoting sustainable agricultural development while strengthening gender inclusivity and rural livelihoods.

Addressing the participants, Dr R. N. Padaria, Joint Director (Extension), ICAR-IARI, appreciated the significant and indispensable role played by women in agriculture. He commended women farmers for their dedication and contribution across various agricultural activities, noting that women actively perform almost every role in farming-from field operations to crop management and post-harvest activities. He highlighted that ICAR-IARI has always recognized and supported the role of women farmers through training, technological interventions, and outreach programmes, and assured that the institute will continue to extend such support in the future.

Dr Padaria further emphasized that while women farmers have been continuously learning and contributing to agriculture, the present era demands greater integration of modern technologies. He stressed that agri-tech solutions are crucial for achieving higher productivity and better crop outcomes.

Dr P. S. Brahmanand, Project Director, Water Technology Centre, ICAR-IARI, delivered a lecture on Micro-Irrigation Systems in Agriculture, emphasizing the importance of efficient water management and precision irrigation technologies for enhancing water use efficiency and ensuring sustainable crop production.

The workshop featured a series of technical sessions conducted by experts, highlighting innovative technologies and approaches for sustainable agricultural development. These sessions covered important themes including, vertical farming, agro-photovoltaic systems, and technologies for climate-resilient agriculture. Experts also shared insights on the Pusa Sun Fridge technology, and the role of artificial intelligence and Bharat VISTAAR for effective agro-advisory services.

In addition, the programme included discussions on improved agricultural machinery for higher farm productivity, improved agricultural machines and safety devices designed specifically for women farmers, and the use of the Pusa STFR meter along with soil health card initiatives for better nutrient management. Sessions also highlighted diagnostic kits and integrated pest management approaches, robotics in agriculture, and value addition technologies aimed at improving farm profitability and reducing post-harvest losses.

The workshop served as a meaningful platform to create awareness about modern agricultural innovations and to enhance the capacity of women farmers for adopting technology-driven farming practices. The exposure to innovative agri-tech solutions is expected to help women farmers adopt improved farming practices, enhance productivity, and strengthen climate resilience in agriculture.

(Source: ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi)