ICAR Sets Up Task Force For Data-Led Farm Reforms & Food Security Amid Global Challenges

New Delhi, Apr 7 (KNN) The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has constituted a high-level Special Task Force (STF) to address emerging global challenges and strengthen India’s agricultural resilience.

The initiative, led by Mangi Lal Jat, Secretary, Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), and Director General of ICAR, aims to develop data-driven strategies to ensure national food and input security.

Boost to Farmer Outreach

As part of the action plan, ICAR will intensify its ‘Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav’ (MGMG) programme to expand farmer engagement. The campaign will prioritise 100 aspirational districts, delivering comprehensive agricultural practices and building confidence at the grassroots level.

Efficient Fertiliser Use

A dedicated drive will promote balanced use of fertilisers and bio-inputs. District-level assessments will be conducted to rationalise fertiliser consumption in key crops such as wheat and rice, improving resource efficiency.

Crop Diversification Strategy

The STF will also focus on diversification by mapping millet-growing regions and promoting high-value alternatives in low-productivity areas. Initiatives like integrating eco-fisheries in rice fields during the Kharif season aim to enhance farmer incomes.

Technology-Driven Interventions

ICAR plans to scale up technological and mechanised solutions, including Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR). These efforts will be supported by real-time advisories under strengthened agrometeorology programmes.

To ensure effective implementation, nodal officers have been appointed across divisions to track weekly progress and coordinate a unified action plan.

The task force will meet as required, leveraging institutional expertise and feedback systems to provide timely inputs to the government for policy decisions.

(KNN Bureau)