3rd Indian Rice Congress inaugurated at ICAR-National Rice Research Institute (NRRI), Cuttack
The 3rd Indian Rice Congress (IRC-2024) inaugurated on December 5, 2024, at the ICAR-National Rice Research Institute (NRRI), Cuttack, organized by the Association of Rice Research Workers (ARRW) on the theme “5G-enabled rice-based agri-food systems for nutrition and livelihood”. The event was inaugurated by Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Secretary (DARE) and Director General (ICAR) as Chief Guest and highlighted India’s emerging role in controlling the global rice market and the need to strengthen the rice value chain to expand market. He emphasized the importance of developing new knowledge and innovations in rice cultivation to address newer challenges effectively. Dr. Pathak underscored digital agriculture as a key objective of Vikshit Bharat and elaborated on the focus areas of the 5M framework i.e. Market, Monsoon, Mechanization, Manpower, and Motivation, which are essential for advancing rice-based farming systems and ensuring sustainability and resilience in agriculture.
Prof. S.K. Datta, INSA Senior Scientist and Former DDG (CS), ICAR, graced the event as Guest of Honour and highlighted the importance of integrating research innovations to address global food security and climate challenges and underscored the role of 5G-enabled precision agriculture in optimizing crop resources and achieving cost efficiency. Dr. P.K. Agrawal, President of ARRW, discussed the constraints of adopting 5G technology, such as limited electricity and range coverage, while pointing out its potential to revolutionize mechanization and facilitate smart agriculture through the Internet of Things.
Dr. A.K. Nayak, Director, ICAR-NRRI, Cuttack welcomed the participants and emphasized the transformative potential of 5G technology in rice farming, particularly in enhancing productivity, improving livelihoods, and fostering resilience in agriculture.
The event also featured the release of significant publications, an exhibition showcasing agricultural advancements, and the ARRW Award Ceremony, which celebrated exemplary contributions to rice research. Approximately 400 participants, including delegates, industry professionals, farmers, and policymakers, attended the congress, making it a vibrant platform for collaboration and innovation. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. A. Poonam, Secretary, ARRW.
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