Brainstorming Interaction on Biodiversity Conservation for 114th FOCARS Probationers Organised

20 September 2025, Hyderabad

ICAR–National Academy of Agricultural Research Management, Hyderabad, organized a Brainstorming Interaction on Biodiversity Management in Agriculture and Allied Sectors today for the probationers of the 114th FOCARS programme. The session aimed to sensitize young scientists on the importance of biodiversity conservation and its critical role in sustainable agriculture.

Dr. Joykrushna Jena, Deputy Director General (Fisheries & Education) ICAR, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. In his address, he highlighted the contribution of fisheries to agricultural GDP, noting that nearly 50% of all vertebrate species are fishes. Dr Jena also emphasized that fisheries resources ease pressure on traditional agricultural ecosystems.

The event was also attended by distinguished experts including Dr. N. K. Krishna Kumar, Former DDG (Horticulture); Dr. T. Janaki Ram, Former Vice Chancellor, YSR Horticultural University and Former ADG (Horticulture); and Dr. G. N. Mathur, Former Professor, SKNAU, Jobner, Rajasthan, as Special Guests of Honour.

Dr. Krishna Kumar underscored the alarming decline in agro-biodiversity, pointing out that a handful of crops make up nearly 80% of the global food basket. He elaborated on the valuation of ecosystem services to stress the urgency of conserving agricultural biodiversity.

Speaking on horticultural biodiversity, Dr. Janaki Ram emphasized its role in providing ahara (food), arogya (health), adhaya (income), and ayush (life). He highlighted the livelihood opportunities created by conserving indigenous ornamentals, particularly for smallholders and women farmers.
Dr. Mathur stressed the importance of conserving indigenous livestock breeds and shared insights from his experiences in biodiversity management across livestock and horticulture.

Earlier, welcoming the dignitaries, Dr. Gopal Lal, Director, ICAR–NAARM, highlighted the purpose of the interaction, encouraging probationers to leverage the session for building their knowledge and perspectives on agro-biodiversity through dialogue with eminent experts.

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