ICAR–CIAE Celebrates 51st Foundation Day

15 February 2026, Bhopal

ICAR–Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Bhopal celebrated its 51st Foundation Day with great enthusiasm and dignity at its campus, marking over five decades of excellence in agricultural engineering research, innovation, and technology dissemination.

The programme was graced by Shri Shivraj Singh Chauhan, Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, as the Chief Guest.

In his keynote address, Shri Chauhan emphasized that agricultural mechanization is fundamental to enhancing productivity, improving resource-use efficiency, and increasing farmers’ income. He underlined the Government of India’s commitment to modernize agriculture through innovation, digital agriculture, precision farming, and climate-resilient technologies. The Minister appreciated ICAR-CIAE’s role in developing affordable and scalable mechanization solutions tailored for small and marginal farmers, women farmers, and rural entrepreneurs. He stressed on strengthening research industry partnerships, promoting Custom Hiring Centres, and ensuring last-mile delivery of technologies to achieve the vision of a developed India by 2047.

On the occasion, he inaugurated the Grain Processing Training Centre and released a brush type cotton harvester developed by the institute. He encouraged close coordination among research institutions, state agencies, manufacturers, and farmer groups to promote inclusive agricultural growth, along with capacity building and skill development for farmers and rural youth.

The function was chaired by Dr M. L. Jat, Secretary, DARE & Director General, ICAR and co-chaired by Dr S. N. Jha, Deputy Director General (Agricultural Engineering) ICAR.

In his presidential and Prof. A. C. Pandya Memorial lecture, Dr Jat underscored innovation-driven and climate-resilient mechanization as key pillars for future agricultural growth. The occasion also witnessed the release of Institute Publications highlighting contemporary advancements and future directions in agricultural mechanization.

Dr Jha, delivered the Co-chairman’s address focusing on strategic advancements and emerging opportunities in agricultural engineering. 
Former DDG (Engg.), ICAR, Dr. Nawab Ali; Dr. M M Pandey and Dr. N S Rathore also graced the occasion and guide the institute.

Welcoming the dignitaries and participants, Dr C. R. Mehta, Director, ICAR-CIAE, presented the institute’s 50-year journey and highlighted its pioneering contributions in developing farmer-centric technologies, promoting sustainable mechanization, reducing drudgery, and generating significant socio-economic benefits for farming communities.

Input kits were distributed to around 500 SC farmers and felicitated a few progressive farmers, start-ups, manufacturers and media associated with the institute. An exhibition of Agricultural Engineering technologies by institute and MP Manufacturers was inaugurated, along with live demonstrations of advanced agricultural machinery.

A Kisan Sangosthi brought together farmers, scientists, and experts to deliberate on mechanization needs and sustainable agricultural development pathways.

(Source: ICAR–Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Bhopal)