30 August 2025, Hyderabad
ICAR–National Academy of Agricultural Research Management, Hyderabad, organized a thought-provoking interactive session on Agricultural Science and Technology as part of the 115th Foundation Course for Agricultural Research Service (FoCARS) today. The event brought together eminent leaders who shared their experiences and perspectives to inspire young ARS probationers.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. S.L. Mehta, Former Deputy Director General (Education), ICAR, shared timeless lessons and guiding principles for success, drawn from his rich professional career. Introducing the concept of the “Four Fs for Success”—Faith, Focus, Follow, and Finishing—he urged the probationers to practice sincerity, discipline, and perseverance. He also emphasized the importance of valuing human relationships, continuous learning, and integrity in leadership, leaving the participants highly motivated.
Dr. Raji Reddy Danda, Vice-Chancellor, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, presented an insightful perspective on the challenges of farming under climate variability. Highlighting the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, labour shortages, and marketing difficulties, he stressed the need for greater mechanization, collaboration between agriculture and IT sectors, and enhanced focus on pulses, oilseeds, and value addition in horticultural crops.
Focusing on livestock and aquaculture, Dr. Jampala Venkata Ramana, Vice-Chancellor, Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, Tirupati, underscored their role as vital pillars of Indian agriculture. He encouraged probationers to strengthen their skills in financial management and statistical analysis, while highlighting the growth potential of the livestock sector through artificial insemination, animal health monitoring, feeder banks, and welfare measures.

In his address, Dr. Gopal Lal, Director, ICAR–NAARM, emphasized the multi-dimensional contributions of horticulture to food, nutritional security, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. He highlighted the role of natural colours from horticultural crops in food, textiles, and other industries, and urged young scientists to approach agricultural challenges with innovation, sustainability, and a farmer-centric spirit of service.
The session concluded on an inspiring note, motivating the ARS probationers to integrate sincerity, innovation, and continuous learning into their careers, and to contribute as responsible researchers committed to strengthening Indian agriculture.
(Source: ICAR–National Academy of Agricultural Research Management, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad)
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