Review and Monitoring Meeting of Foreign-Aided Projects under Natural Resource Management Division Organised

3–4 November 2025, Baramati

A six-monthly review and monitoring meeting of foreign-aided projects under the Natural Resource Management Division, ICAR, for the period January–June 2025, was organized during 3–4 November 2025 at the ICAR–National Institute of Abiotic Stress Management, Baramati.

The inaugural session, held at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Auditorium, began with the lighting of the lamp, followed by a welcome address by Dr. K. Sammi Reddy, Director, ICAR–NIASM. The programme was graced by Dr. A. K. Nayak, Deputy Director General (NRM), ICAR, New Delhi, as the Chief Guest, and Dr. Rakesh Kumar, In-charge ADG (Agro-AF & CC), and Dr. A. Velmurugan, ADG (SWM), as Guests of Honour.

In his inaugural address, Dr. A. K. Nayak highlighted the strategic role of ICAR–NIASM in tackling abiotic stress challenges within India’s agricultural landscape. He emphasized the need to strengthen interdisciplinary, cross-disciplinary, and transdisciplinary research collaborations to effectively address complex field-level issues. Dr. Nayak also underscored the importance of aligning institutional research priorities with the nation’s developmental vision, including Agenda 2047.
Encouraging young scientists to contribute actively towards research innovation and institutional growth, Dr. Nayak commended the collective efforts of scientists, students, technical staff, and support personnel in advancing research outcomes. On this occasion, institute publications were released, and the housekeeping staff of ICAR–NIASM were felicitated for their dedicated service in maintaining the institute’s campus and facilities.

Following the inaugural session, technical sessions were held under the chairmanship of Dr. A. K. Nayak, where participants presented progress reports and discussed the outcomes of completed, ongoing, and newly initiated foreign-aided projects across various ICAR institutes. The deliberations provided an opportunity for critical evaluation of research progress, identification of field-level challenges, and formulation of strategic directions to enhance resilience and sustainability in Indian agriculture.

On the second day, delegates visited the research farms and laboratories of ICAR–NIASM to gain insights into ongoing experimental work and infrastructure supporting NRM-related research.

The meeting successfully facilitated scientific exchange, collaborative engagement, and forward planning, reinforcing ICAR’s commitment to strengthening research partnerships and promoting sustainable natural resource management across India.

(Source:  ICAR-National Institute of Abiotic Stress Management, Baramati)