Source: Business Standard
Context
At the 98th Foundation Day of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan urged scientists to develop non-GM (Genetically Modified) solutions to improve the productivity of pulses and oilseeds. He also emphasized crop diversification and climate-smart agriculture to achieve India’s agricultural goals by 2047.
Key Highlights
Focus on Non-GM Solutions
- Scientists were asked to develop high-yielding non-GMO varieties of pulses and oilseeds.
- The Minister questioned why countries without GM seeds achieve better productivity while India still depends on imports.
- The approval of GM Mustard (DMH-11) remains pending due to legal and policy issues.
- The Minister observed that farmers shift from pulses to rice and wheat after getting irrigation because cereals provide higher yields.
- The Minister emphasized reducing dependence on imported fertilizers and developing indigenous solutions.
- ICAR has prepared contingency plans for regions vulnerable to El Niño and other climate risks.
About ICAR
- Established: 1929
- Headquarters: New Delhi
- Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
- India’s apex organization for agricultural education, research, and extension.
