MoU Signed between ICAR-National Rice Research Institute and Assam Agricultural University for Collaborative Rice Research
In a significant move towards fostering collaboration and sharing expertise in the field of rice research, the ICAR-National Rice Research Institute (NRRI) in Cuttack, Odisha, and Assam Agricultural University (AAU)-Assam Rice Research Institute in Jorhat, Assam, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on July 13, 2023. The MoU aims to facilitate cooperation in various areas, including research and development, germplasm exchange, student exchange programs, human resource development (HRD), and commercialization of rice-related innovations. Dr. A.K. Nayak, Director, NRRI signed MoU on behalf of NRRI while Dr. Mrinal Saikia, Dean of Research represented AAU, Jorhat. Dr. Bidyut Chandra Deka, Hon. Vice Chancellor, AAU graced the occasion and expressed his appreciation for the collaboration. The signing ceremony took place at the ICAR-NRRI campus in Cuttack which was attended by esteemed representatives from both institutions including Dr. Sanjay Kumar Chetia from AAU & Dr. M.J. Baig, Dr. G.A.K. Kumar, Dr. S. Samantray, Dr. P. Bhattacharya, Dr. S.D. Mohapatra, Dr. B. Mondal, Shri V. Ganesh Kumar and Shri R.K. Singh from NRRI.
Under the agreement, ICAR-NRRI and AAU will work together to enhance their research capabilities in the field of rice breeding, genetics, agronomy, and crop protection and extension. This collaboration will help accelerate the development of improved rice varieties, better farming practices, and sustainable pest and disease management strategies. The MoU also includes provisions for faculty and student exchange programs between the two institutions. This initiative will allow researchers and students to gain exposure to diverse rice ecosystems and farming practices in different regions of India. It will foster a collaborative environment where knowledge and expertise can be shared, contributing to the overall advancement of rice research and development in the country.
Dr. A.K. Nayak, Director of ICAR-NRRI, expressed his optimism about the collaboration, stating, “This MoU between NRRI and AAU marks the beginning of a strong partnership in the field of rice research. By combining our expertise and resources, we can address the challenges faced by the rice farming community.” Dr. B.C. Deka, Vice-Chancellor of Assam Agricultural University, echoed these sentiments, stating, “We are delighted to collaborate with ICAR-NRRI, a renowned institute in rice research. This partnership will facilitate knowledge exchange and technological advancements, ultimately benefitting the farmers and the rice industry as a whole.”
On this occasion, Dr. B.C. Deka, Vice Chancellor, AAU, Assam delivered a lecture on “Transformation of NARES System into Agribusiness platform: AAU model to emulate” which was attended by staff, scholars and students of NRRI. Dr. Deka highlighted the need for changes in NARES System, the importance of Agribusiness in R&D institutes for generating internal revenue and development of entrepreneurship development among students. He also emphasized on commercialization of technologies.
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