A significant delegation from the Central Agricultural University (CAU) based in Imphal made a key visit to the ICAR–Indian Institute of Vegetable Research (IIVR) in Varanasi on Thursday. The high-level team was led by the university's vice-chancellor, Professor Anupam Mishra.
Delegation Composition and Welcome
The visiting group included several prominent academic figures. Among them were Professor Indira Saranthen, who serves as the Dean of the College of Horticulture in Sikkim, and Professor Ajay Kumar Pandey, the Dean of the College of Agriculture in Imphal. They were accompanied by professors Nandini Devi and Lokesh Mishra, along with representatives from the Surabhi Shodh Sansthan based in Varanasi.
Upon their arrival, the delegation was received by the Director of IIVR, Rajesh Kumar. He took the opportunity to present a comprehensive overview of the institute's major activities. Director Kumar highlighted the significant work IIVR is engaged in across three core areas: research, education, and extension services.
Focus on Natural Farming and Nutritional Security
Addressing the gathering, Vice-Chancellor Professor Anupam Mishra outlined critical areas requiring focused scientific attention. He strongly emphasized the urgent need for dedicated research in natural farming practices. Furthermore, he pointed towards the conservation and utilization of underutilized and minor vegetables.
Professor Mishra stressed that enhancing the nutritional availability of these crops is paramount. He also called for concerted efforts in creating public awareness regarding the benefits of natural farming and the nutritional value of lesser-known vegetables.
Roadmap for Future Cooperation
The meeting served as a productive platform to chart a course for future collaboration between the two esteemed institutions. Both parties engaged in detailed discussions on potential areas of partnership.
The key collaborative avenues identified include:
- Joint research projects on priority areas.
- Training and capacity-building programmes for students and scientists.
- Cooperation in seed production and technology development.
- Technical knowledge exchange and support.
This visit marks a strategic step towards strengthening institutional linkages in the agricultural research sector, aiming to address contemporary challenges in vegetable cultivation and sustainable farming.
