50 Years of ICAR–ICRISAT Partnership Celebrated at Dryland Congress 2026
The second day of Dryland Congress 2026 in New Delhi marked 50 years of collaboration between the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT). Leaders and experts from both institutions reflected on five decades of partnership and discussed a future roadmap aligned with Viksit Bharat 2047. The event also featured thematic panel discussions, technical sessions, poster presentations, and talks on resilient dryland farming and seed systems.
Why It Matters
This press release covers institutional milestones and agricultural partnerships, which are relevant for UPSC, State-PSC, and agriculture-related competitive exams focusing on government initiatives, research bodies like ICAR, and development goals like Viksit Bharat 2047.
In Simple Words
The Dryland Congress 2026 in New Delhi celebrated 50 years of partnership between ICAR and ICRISAT. Current and former leaders gathered to discuss past achievements and build a collaborative roadmap supporting Viksit Bharat 2047.
The event also included panels on dryland farming, seed systems, and youth or gender inclusion. Emerging researchers showcased scientific posters, and experts emphasized the role of science, innovation, and agrobiodiversity in making dryland agriculture sustainable and resilient.
Key Points
- The Dryland Congress 2026 is being held in New Delhi.
- The event marked 50 years of collaboration between ICAR and ICRISAT.
- The special session was co-chaired by Dr R. S. Paroda and Dr William D. Dar.
- Dr M. L. Jat is the Secretary of DARE and Director General of ICAR.
- Dr Himanshu Pathak is the Director General of ICRISAT.
- Three thematic panel discussions covered resilient dryland farming, transforming seed systems in the Global South, and gender and youth-centered transformation.
- More than 145 posters are being evaluated for the Best Poster Awards.
- Prof. Yaye Gassama is an ICRISAT Board Member.
Exam Angle
A. Dr R. S. Paroda and Dr William D. Dar
Source: Press Information Bureau