ICAR-IISWC, Dehradun Celebrates its 73rd Foundation Day

7 April 2026, Dehradun

ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Dehradun commemorated its 73rd Foundation Day with enthusiasm at its headquarters in Dehradun.

Dr Harendra Singh Bisht, Director, CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum, graced the occasion as Chief Guest, while Smt. Kahkashan Naseem, Additional CEO of Springshed and River Rejuvenation Agency, attended as Guest of Honour. The celebration also brought together eminent scientists, retired staff, progressive farmers, and invited dignitaries.

In his address, Dr Bisht lauded the institute’s significant contributions to soil and water conservation, particularly in reducing land degradation, promoting rainwater harvesting, and enhancing agricultural productivity. He emphasized the need to integrate conservation technologies with energy-efficient solutions to achieve sustainable development goals.

Smt. Naseem highlighted the importance of springshed and river rejuvenation, underscoring the need for strengthened collaboration between ICAR-IISWC and state agencies to advance natural resource management and climate resilience.

Dr M. Madhu, Director, ICAR-IISWC, outlined the institute’s achievements in addressing soil erosion and improving productivity in rainfed and degraded agro-ecosystems. He noted that since its establishment in 1953–54, IISWC has emerged as a premier institution under the Natural Resource Management Division of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, delivering location-specific technologies through its network of regional centres across the country.

Recent scientific assessments indicate a substantial reduction in land degradation due to water erosion—from 39.87% (125.99 million hectares) to 26.31% (86.04 million hectares) reflecting the impact of sustained conservation efforts. IISWC has treated over 100 million hectares under watershed programmes, leading to reduced soil loss and enhanced agricultural productivity.

The institute’s interventions have resulted in crop yield improvements ranging from 40% to 412%, water productivity gains of 30% to 84%, and fertilizer savings estimated at ₹10,000–15,000 crore annually. These outcomes have significantly contributed to improving farmers’ livelihoods and strengthening climate resilience.

Aligned with the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, ICAR-IISWC continues to support key priorities such as enhancing agricultural production, improving resource-use efficiency, expanding agroforestry, and ensuring wider access to technological innovations.

To date, the institute has developed over 100 technologies, including erosion control measures, agroforestry models, water harvesting techniques, and decision-support systems. Its capacity-building programmes have trained thousands of stakeholders nationwide.

As part of the celebration, progressive farmers from nearby villages were felicitated for their contributions and shared success stories demonstrating the transformation of degraded lands into productive systems through IISWC interventions. The programme also featured the release of technical bulletins and the Hindi magazine Buransh, along with cultural and sports activities.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment to sustainable land management, climate resilience, and farmer-centric development, reinforcing the message: “Soil is soul—save it, and water is life—conserve it.”

The event witnessed active participation from scientists, officials, farmers, and key stakeholders.

(Source: ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil & Water Conservation, Dehradun)