ICAR-NAARM Organises XIth MDP for Newly Recruited Senior Scientists and Heads of KVKs

16 February 2026, Hyderabad

ICAR-National Academy of Agricultural Research Management organized the first phase of the XIth Management Development Programme (MDP) for Newly Recruited Senior Scientists and Heads of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) from 2 to 16 February 2026, which concluded today. The programme was conducted in collaboration with the Agricultural Extension Division of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research and the ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute.

The training programme covered comprehensive modules relevant to KVK functioning, including organization and management, oral and written communication, human resource management, technological content and media management, administration, financial management, concept note writing, and monitoring and evaluation.

The MDP is structured in three phases: the first phase of 15 days was held at ICAR-NAARM (2–16 February 2026); the second phase of 10 days will be conducted at a model KVK outside the participants’ respective zones from 19 to 28 February 2026; and the third phase of five days will be held at their respective ICAR-ATARIs from 3 to 7 March 2026.

Dr. Rajbir Singh, Deputy Director General (Agricultural Extension), ICAR, emphasized the importance of engaging more Professors of Practice, encouraging farmer volunteers, and strengthening linkages with local institutions at the district level.

Dr. R. Venkatasubramanian, Director, ICAR-ATARI Bengaluru, and Dr. Shaik Meera, Director, ICAR-ATARI Hyderabad, attended the valedictory function, highlighting the pivotal role of KVKs in promoting agripreneurship. They advised participants to utilize available resources efficiently and adopt advanced technologies, including IT applications, to enhance outreach and impact.

In his presidential address, Dr. Gopal Lal, Director, ICAR-NAARM, underscored the significant contribution of KVKs to nation-building and urged the trainees to maintain discipline in resource management to demonstrate tangible impacts of KVK interventions.

The programme was attended by 26 participants representing 12 states across eight ATARIs, reflecting its national significance in strengthening leadership and management capacities of newly appointed KVK heads and senior scientists.

(Source: ICAR-National Academy of Agricultural Research Management, Hyderabad)