ICAR–IARI Commemorates its 122nd Foundation Day

1 April 2026, New Delhi

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, celebrated its 122nd Foundation Day today, at the Dr B.P. Pal Auditorium, New Delhi. The event was marked by enthusiasm, dignity, and a renewed commitment to advancing agricultural science for national development.

The occasion commemorated over a century of ICAR-IARI’s pioneering contributions to agricultural research, education, and extension, which have played a transformative role in ensuring India’s food and nutritional security.

The Chief Guest, Smt. Rekha Gupta, Chief Minister, Delhi appreciated ICAR-IARI’s invaluable contributions to agricultural sustainability and farmers’ livelihoods. In her address, she highlighted the role of ICAR-IARI in developing a “Green Delhi” and ensuring water security. She emphasized on the importance of both individual responsibility and institutional efforts in addressing national challenges, particularly improvement of soil health through scientific interventions and awareness.

She also acknowledged ICAR-IARI’s role in supporting farmers and its contribution towards achieving the dream of a developed India while recalling the vision of Lal Bahadur Shastri regarding food self-sufficiency.

Shri Ravinder Singh (Indraj), Minister for Social Welfare, Welfare of SC & ST, Cooperative, Election also extended his wishes on the occasion and encouraged collective efforts towards building a Greener Delhi and appreciated the efforts of ICAR-IARI towards achieving the goal.

Dr M. L. Jat, Secretary, DARE & Director General, ICAR also graced the occasion as Guest of Honour. In his address, he emphasized on strengthening the collaboration between ICAR and the Delhi Government to address urban and peri-urban agricultural challenges. He suggested to look for the innovative solutions such as converting waste into fertilizer for sustainable agriculture and waste management. He also underscored the importance of human capital development and described food as “medicine,” stressing the need for continued focus in this area.

Dr Jat further stressed on the importance of awareness programmes for farmers, and advised to use DAP fertilizer judiciously in a cropping system. He stated that such informed practices could save significant costs and improve nutrient-use efficiency.

Delivering the welcome address, Dr Ch. Srinivasa Rao highlighted the institute’s key achievements and initiatives over the past year. He emphasized IARI’s strategic vision aligned with the national goal of Viksit Bharat 2047, focusing on climate-resilient agriculture, digital and immersive technologies, and farmer-centric innovations. He also stated that ICAR-IARI retained the 1st rank in Agriculture & Allied Sectors (NIRF 2025) for the third consecutive year, secured 2nd rank in SDGs, 24th overall, and 29th in research. The institute received A+ accreditation (3.64/4.00) from NAEAB (2025–2030) and entered the QS World Rankings 2026 (151–200 band).

The Chief Minister also visited the exhibition showcasing technologies developed by the Pusa Institute and also released the books titled “Improved Crop Varieties for Food, Nutrition and Livelihood Security” and “Precision Floriculture and Landscape Design” during the समारोह

On this occasion, awards were conferred upon scientists, technical staff, administrative and finance personnel, as well as media representatives for their outstanding contributions during 2025–26.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr R. N. Padaria, Joint Director (Extension), ICAR-IARI who expressed sincere gratitude to all dignitaries, organizers, and participants for making the event a grand success.

The event was also attended by former Directors of the ICAR–Indian Agricultural Research Institute, along with other dignitaries, staff, and students.

The 122nd Foundation Day celebration of ICAR-IARI reflected the institute’s glorious legacy and reinforced its unwavering commitment to scientific excellence, innovation, and farmer-centric development, paving the way for a sustainable and prosperous agricultural future for India.

(Source: ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi)