NEW DELHI, 29 April 2025: Dr. Mangi Lal Jat, a globally recognized expert in sustainable agriculture and agronomy, has officially assumed charge as the new Secretary of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) and Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
His appointment, approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), is for a period of three years.
Prior to this role, Dr. Jat served as Deputy Director General (Research) at ICAR and Director of the Global Research Program at ICRISAT, Hyderabad. A Ph.D. holder in Agronomy from ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, Dr. Jat is widely regarded for his work in climate-resilient farming, soil moisture conservation, and conservation agriculture.
With over 25 years of global and national leadership experience, including roles at CIMMYT, IRRI, and FAO, Dr. Jat has led cutting-edge initiatives in climate-smart technologies, regenerative agriculture, and digital innovation. His contributions have significantly impacted smallholder farming systems in Asia and Africa.
He is the recipient of multiple accolades, including the prestigious Rafi Ahmed Kidwai Award, and is a Fellow of the National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS). With over 350 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Jat’s research has directly influenced agricultural policy, sustainable intensification, and resilient food systems.
His leadership marks a pivotal moment for ICAR as it seeks to confront climate change, soil degradation, and the transformation of India’s food systems. Dr. Jat’s appointment signals a clear alignment with India’s broader vision for sustainable development, precision agriculture, and nutritional security.
