ICAR-BMGF launched Mega Project for modernization of Indian Crop Breeding

25^th January, 2019, NASC, New Delhi

The ICAR in collaboration with Bill Melinda Gates Foundation launched a Mega Project on “Application of Next-Generation Breeding, Genotyping and Digitalization Approaches for Improving the Genetic Gain in Indian Staple Crops” today.

In his inaugural address, Dr. Trilochan Mohapatra, Secretary (DARE) & DG (ICAR) mentioned that the country is producing around 285 million tonnes of food grains. He also talked about the country’s capability to feed 1.3 billion plus populations by its better performance in milk and animal husbandry sectors. He informed that the project will help in digitalization of plant breeding activities, use of next generation breeding approaches and advanced genomic tools for enhancing productivity and rapid varietal development. The DG also released Project Brochure.

Dr. Purvi Mehta, Senior Advisor and Head of Agriculture for Asia, BMGF regarded ICAR as the global player in the field of agriculture research. She also mentioned that the project does not only target the staple crops, but also the other arenas like animal husbandry, milk production, livestock, etc.

Dr. Anand Kumar Singh, DDG (Horticulture and Crop Sciences), ICAR said more than 200 researchers will be trained in digital phenotyping, Breed Management System and genomics tools. He also elaborated that 50 researchers will be trained in international labs in genomics, advanced quantitative genetics, etc.

Dr. A.K. Singh, Director, ICAR-IARI and DDG (Extension), ICAR briefed about the project.

Dr. Peter, DG, ICRISAT also graced the occasion.

Directors and scientists from ICAR institutes were also present during the programme.

The project has been implemented with a budgetary outlay of Rs. 51.33 crores. The BMGF has contributed Rs. 27 crores (US$ 4.00 million) with a matching grant from ICAR. The knowledge partners include State Agricultural Universities and Government, Excellence in Breeding Platform, CIMMYT, Mexico and ICRISAT. The project spans over a period of four years, will aim to optimize conventional breeding pipelines towards development of consumer-oriented products while improving climate resilience, crop productivity and profitability of Indian farmers.

Dr. Ashok K. Singh, Head (Genetics), JD (Research), ICAR-IARI & ICAR-BMGF Project Leader proposed a vote of thanks.