Senior Journalists – Scientists interaction Meet
The Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra (VBSY), initiated by the Government of India, is now the main campaign for the 2023–24 fiscal year. In order to raise awareness of the Central Government’s flagship programs, projects, and accomplishments, PIB is conducting a press tour. Press tours are a crucial tool for showcasing to the media the growth and accomplishments of Government of India to the media.
In this regard, on January 9, 2024, a group of eight senior journalists from Maharashtra paid a visit to the ICAR-National Rice Research Institute, Cuttack.
The Director, ICAR-NRRI, Cuttack, Dr. A.K. Nayak gave insights about the goals, accomplishments, activities and aspirations of the Institute. He mentioned that the Great Bengal Famine was the backdrop for the establishment of the ICAR-National Rice Research Institute (NRRI) 78 years ago, in 1946. Over the course of its arduous journey, the institute made a substantial contribution to the well-known Green Revolution and helped India achieve food grain self-sufficiency. The institute is a forerunner in advanced rice research, focusing on enhancing productivity, sustainability, and resilience in rice cultivation. He continued, “The institute is actively involved in developing improved varieties, sustainable farming practices, pest and disease management strategies, and technology transfer mechanisms.” He further added that the institute contributed significantly in boosting the overall rural economy in the country by all-time record food grains production of 323 million tons in the Country during 2022-23 crop year with a rice production of 130 million tons. The institute is working with different rice stakeholders in India and abroad. The institute addresses all Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through its current research programmes and activities having multi-dimensional approaches benefitting the stakeholders of India as well as the world. In its 78 years of journey, the institute has released 179 high yielding rice varieties for irrigated (71), shallow lowland (33), upland (28), semi-deep (16), aerobic (13), coastal saline (8), boro (5) and deep water (5) ecologies. Looking ahead, the Director, NRRI spoke about the aspirations of the institute, which are aligned with the broader goal of ensuring food security, especially in the face of challenges posed by climate change. “We aim to further strengthen our collaboration with farmers, research institutions, and government agencies to create a holistic approach to sustainable agriculture”, Dr. Nayak stressed.
The Journalists interacted with all Head of Divisions and Scientists of the institute. They visited important laboratories, facilities, and production units of the institute.
Dr. G.A.K. Kumar, Head, Social Science Division welcomed the dignitaries and he also offered a formal vote of thanks. Dr. S. Paul, Senior Scientist, Social Science Division coordinated the programme.
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