“National Symposium” organized

19 - 21 July, 2022, New Delhi

The Genetics Club of the ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi in association with the XV Genetic Congress Trust and Indian Society of Genetics & Plant Breeding, New Delhi has organized the three-day National Symposium from 19^th to 21^st July, 2022. The Symposium has been organized to commemorate the Birth Bio-centenary of Shri Gregar Johann Mendel, the Father of Genetics.

Delivering his inaugural address, Dr. Trilochan Mohapatra, Secretary (DARE) & Director General (ICAR) highlighted the importance and contributions of Genetics towards the human welfare. Citing the success of Basmati Rice Variety - PB 1121, PB 1509 and Wheat Variety - HD 2967, the Director General underlined the effectiveness of application of Genetics that can bring about changes in the agri-production, productivity and profitability.

The need for utilizing the availability of plant genetic resources identification and development of the new genes for furthering the crop yield and quality to ensure food and nutritional security to the nation was stressed by Dr. Mohapatra. The DG also urged facilitating the use of novel molecular biological tools including mutation and genome editing approaches supported by policy for sustaining the production in the changing climatic scenario.

The Bust of Shri G.J. Mendel will be unveiled by the dignitaries in the Division of Genetics, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi.

Dr. R.B. Singh, Former President, NAAS presided-over the session.

Earlier, Dr. A.K. Singh, Director, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi delivered the welcome address.

The Symposium registered participation by around 350 participants.

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