CUTTACK, 13 February 2025: In a significant push for agricultural advancement, Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Secretary (DARE) and Director General (ICAR), inaugurated several crucial facilities at the ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Cuttack.
The newly launched farmers' hostel, a modern seed processing unit, and a vibrant Kisan Mela aim to strengthen agricultural infrastructure and empower the district’s farming community.
Dr. Pathak emphasized the need for innovative research, sustainable agricultural practices, and farmer-centric initiatives to enhance productivity and resilience against climate change. He reiterated ICAR’s commitment to transforming agricultural research, implementing uniform regulations for KVKs, and bolstering ICAR’s pivotal role in shaping India's agricultural landscape. Encouraging researchers, scientists, and staff, he reaffirmed the ethos of Bhartiya Krushi Ka Aadhar—ICAR, driving excellence and innovation in Indian agriculture.
Guest of Honor, Dr. Pradip Dey, Director of ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Kolkata, pledged full support for KVK’s initiatives. Dr. Amaresh Kumar Nayak, Director of ICAR-Central Rice Research Institute, Cuttack, highlighted KVK’s critical role in fostering agricultural growth and urged farmers to actively engage in skill-based training programs to improve their livelihoods.
Also present at the event were Dr. P.K. Sahoo, Director of ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, Bhubaneswar; Dr. A. Sarangi, Director of ICAR-Indian Institute of Water Management, Bhubaneswar; and Dr. A.K. Panda, In-Charge Director of ICAR-Central Institute for Women in Agriculture, Bhubaneswar.
The event recognized outstanding farmers from the district and launched extension bulletins containing valuable agricultural insights. The newly inaugurated farmers' hostel will accommodate visiting farmers attending training sessions and workshops, while the seed processing unit will ensure better seed quality and availability, directly contributing to improved agricultural productivity. The Kisan Mela served as an interactive knowledge-sharing platform, showcasing innovative technologies, improved crop varieties, and best practices. A farmer-scientist interaction session also addressed critical issues in agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, and livelihood management.
The program saw enthusiastic participation from 200 progressive farmers and farm women from the region, marking a significant step towards strengthening agricultural resilience and innovation in Cuttack.
