21-Day Winter School Concludes at ICAR-NIBSM

21-Day Winter School Concludes at ICAR-NIBSM

11^th February 2025, Raipur

The ICAR-sponsored 21-day Winter School at ICAR-National Institute of Biotic Stresses Management, concluded with the valedictory session, attended by scientists from ICAR-NIBSM and winter school participants. The programme aimed to enhance knowledge on Nano-technology, with a special focus on plant protection and sustainable practices.

The Chief Guest, Dr P.K. Chakrabarty, Former Member, ASRB and Assistant Director General (PP&B), ICAR, emphasized the critical role of disruptive technologies in improving crop yields and mitigating disease incidence. He also stressed the importance of developing Minimum Residual Limits (MRLs) to enhance agricultural exports and strengthen biosecurity measures. Dr Chakrabarty, further highlighted the international repercussions of pest and disease outbreaks, advocating for enhanced plant protection strategies. He stated that by implementing advanced plant production measures, it is possible to prevent the loss of 65-70 million metric tonnes of crops annually. He also emphasized that productivity could be significantly increased without expanding the cultivation area.

Dr Jagdish Kumar, Former Director (Acting), ICAR-NIBSM and guest of honor, commended the efforts of the organizing team and encouraged further research collaborations to tackle emerging agricultural challenges. He emphasized the importance of equipping researchers and professionals with the latest advancements in agriculture, particularly in plant protection, to ensure sustainable and productive farming systems

Dr Pankaj Sharma, Joint Director and Course Director, provided an overview of the training program, detailing key sessions, field visits, and interactive workshops conducted over the 21 days. He acknowledged the support of ICAR, faculty members, and participants in making the program a success.

Participants shared their experiences, appreciating the hands-on exposure to cutting-edge research techniques and modern agricultural innovations. 

The Programme was coordinated by Dr Mallikarjun, J., Senior Scientist.

The Winter School served as a significant platform for knowledge exchange, capacity building, and fostering innovative approaches to agricultural research and development. 23 Assistant Professors and scientists from different State Agricultural University and ICAR participated in the training.

(Source: ICAR-National Institute of Biotic Stresses Management, Raipur, Chhatisgarh)