The ICAR–Indian Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR–IARI), New Delhi, celebrated its 122nd Foundation Day with a grand ceremony held at the Dr. B. P. Pal Auditorium. The event highlighted the institute’s historic journey, scientific achievements, and its unrivalled contributions to India’s food and nutritional security. The celebration reaffirmed IARI’s commitment to leading India’s agricultural transformation through innovation, sustainability, and farmer-centric research.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta Attends as Chief Guest
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, lauded IARI’s pioneering work in agricultural science. She said that the institute’s research not only supports farmers in enhancing their income but also contributes significantly to creating a “Green Delhi” and ensuring long-term water security for the region.
The Chief Minister stressed that soil health improvement is one of India’s most pressing agricultural challenges and emphasized the need for scientific solutions combined with mass awareness. Recalling Lal Bahadur Shastri’s vision of “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan,” she noted that IARI has played a historic role in enabling India’s food self-sufficiency and will remain central to achieving the goal of a developed India.
Focus on Sustainable Agriculture, Waste Management, and Innovation
Dr. M. L. Jat, Secretary (DARE) and Director General of ICAR, who attended the event as Guest of Honour, called for strengthening cooperation between the Delhi Government and ICAR. He highlighted the need for innovation-driven models to address urban and peri-urban agricultural challenges, especially solutions focused on waste-to-compost technologies and other sustainable resource management practices.
Dr. Jat also emphasized the importance of promoting the scientific use of DAP among farmers to reduce costs and improve nutrient-use efficiency, thereby contributing to sustainable crop production systems.
IARI’s National and Global Achievements Highlighted
In his welcome address, IARI Director Dr. Ch. Srinivas Rao presented a detailed account of the institute’s achievements over the past year. Key milestones included:
• First position in Agriculture and Allied Sectors category in NIRF–2025, for the third consecutive year
• Second place in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) category
• 24th overall ranking and 29th rank in the research category
• Award of A+ accreditation (3.64/4.00) for the period 2025–2030
• First-ever inclusion in the QS World University Rankings 2026, placed in the 151–200 band
Dr. Rao noted that these accomplishments reflect IARI’s expanding global footprint and its continued leadership in cutting-edge agricultural research.
During her visit, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also inaugurated an exhibition displaying several innovative technologies developed by IARI. She released two key publications authored by the institute’s scientists:
“Improved Crop Varieties for Food, Nutrition and Livelihood Security” and
“Precision Floriculture and Landscape Design.”
Awards for Excellence in Scientific and Administrative Services
One of the highlights of the ceremony was the felicitation of scientists, technical staff, administrative officers, financial officers, and media representatives who demonstrated outstanding performance during 2025–26. The awards underscored the institute’s commitment to acknowledging excellence and motivating the scientific community.
Conclusion Marks a Renewed Vision for the Future
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. R. N. Padaria, Joint Director (Extension). He expressed gratitude to all distinguished guests, former directors, staff members, students, and the organizing committee for making the celebration a success.
The 122nd Foundation Day of ICAR–IARI not only celebrated the institute’s rich legacy but also showcased its forward-looking vision. With its strong focus on scientific excellence, innovation, and farmer welfare, IARI continues to play a pivotal role in shaping India’s agricultural future and driving the nation’s progress toward sustainable and resilient food systems.
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