The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is an autonomous organisation under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India. Formerly known as the Imperial Council of Agricultural Research, it was established on 16 July 1929 as a registered society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, in pursuance of the report of the Royal Commission on Agriculture. The ICAR has its headquarters in New Delhi.
With 113 ICAR institutes and 74 agricultural universities spread across the country, this is one of the largest national agricultural systems in the world.
Important Features
• Comprehensive Scope: ICAR covers all aspects of agriculture, from crop improvement and animal husbandry to fisheries, agroforestry, and agricultural engineering. This comprehensive approach ensures that all facets of agriculture are addressed under one umbrella organisation. • Network of Institutions: ICAR operates through a vast network of research institutes, agricultural universities, and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (Agricultural Science Centers) across India. This extensive network enables it to have a broad reach, fostering collaboration and information dissemination. • Education and Accreditation: ICAR plays a significant role in setting and maintaining educational standards in agriculture. It accredits and supports agricultural universities and colleges, which ensures the quality of education and research in the field. • Research Excellence: ICAR has a strong focus on research and development. It conducts cutting-edge research and promotes the development of high-yielding crop varieties, superior animal breeds, and innovative agricultural technologies. • Extension Services: ICAR focuses on research and has a robust extension system. The Krishi Vigyan Kendras serve as knowledge hubs for farmers, providing them with the latest agricultural technologies and best practices. • Policy Influence: ICAR's extensive research and data collection capabilities make it a vital contributor to agricultural policy formulation. It provides data-driven insights and recommendations to the government, influencing national agricultural policies. • Global Collaboration: ICAR collaborates with international agricultural research organizations, which allows it to access global expertise, share knowledge, and adapt innovations from around the world. • Impact on Food Security: ICAR's research and technology dissemination efforts have substantially impacted India's food security. With high-yielding crop varieties, the Green Revolution is a prime example of how ICAR's initiatives transformed India from a food-deficit nation to a food-surplus one. • Holistic Approach: ICAR takes a holistic approach to agriculture by addressing not only crop productivity but also sustainability, soil health, water management, and the well-being of farming communities. This approach aims to ensure the long-term prosperity of the agricultural sector. • Capacity Building: ICAR actively invests in the capacity building of farmers, extension workers, and agricultural professionals through training and educational programs.
Major Functions
• Research and Development: ICAR promotes and coordinates research and development activities related to agriculture. It funds research projects, provides guidance, and facilitates collaboration among research institutions. • Technology Transfer: ICAR is responsible for transferring agricultural technologies and innovations to farmers. This includes improved crop varieties, pest management techniques, and best agricultural practices. • Education and Training: It sets standards for agricultural education and accredits agricultural universities and colleges. ICAR also conducts training programs for agricultural professionals. • Capacity Building: ICAR helps build the capacity of farmers, extension workers, and other stakeholders by organising training and awareness programs. • Policy Formulation: The council assists the government in formulating agricultural policies and programs. It provides valuable insights and data to support policy decisions.
Services Offered
• Seed Development: ICAR has played a crucial role in developing high-yielding crop varieties and improved seeds. For example, it developed the famous "IR8" rice variety, also known as the "Miracle Rice," which significantly increased rice yields and played a vital role in the Green Revolution. • Extension Services: ICAR extends agricultural knowledge and technologies to farmers through its Krishi Vigyan Kendras (Agricultural Science Centers) network. These centres provide advice on crop management, pest control, and other agricultural practices. • Livestock and Fisheries: ICAR researches and develops livestock and fisheries sectors, improving breeds and practices. For instance, it has developed improved cattle breeds like Sahiwal and Gir. • Soil and Water Management: ICAR researches and promotes soil health management and water conservation techniques to enhance agricultural productivity. • Capacity Building: ICAR offers training and capacity-building programs for farmers, extension workers, and agricultural professionals to enhance their skills and knowledge. • Technology Dissemination: ICAR disseminates information and technologies through publications, workshops, exhibitions, and digital platforms to reach a broader audience.
The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) serves as the primary organisation for agricultural research, education, and technology dissemination in India. It plays a pivotal role in advancing agricultural practices and ensuring food security in the country through its extensive network of institutions, research activities, and capacity-building initiatives.
