National Seminar on “Technological Innovations for Transforming Agriculture: The Role of Agrophysics” inaugurated at ICAR-CCARI Goa

    A two-day National Seminar on “Technological Innovations for Transforming Agriculture: The Role of Agrophysics” was inaugurated at ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute (CCARI), Goa, on January 23, 2025. The event, jointly organized by the Indian Society of Agrophysics (ISAP), New Delhi, and the Association for Coastal Agricultural Research (ACAR), Goa, emphasized the importance of science-driven innovations, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and digital agriculture, in achieving food and nutritional security while enhancing agricultural efficiency and sustainability.

    Chief Guest Mr. Rajesh Faldessai, MLA, Cumbarjua Constituency, and Chairman of the Goa Rehabilitation Board, spoke about the unique challenges of agriculture in Goa and urged scientists to develop climate-resilient and sustainable solutions. Guest of Honour, Dr. S. K. Chaudhari, DDG (NRM) underscored the transformative potential of agrophysics in addressing food and nutritional security while enhancing agricultural efficiency, profitability, and sustainability. He highlighted the need for integrating modern technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data analysis, robotic farming, and digital agriculture to revolutionize agricultural practices and improve resilience. Guest of Honour Dr. A. K. Singh, Vice Chancellor of Rani Lakshmi Bai Central Agricultural University, Jhansi, addressed the critical global challenge of ensuring sustainable food production amidst climate change.  Dr. Parveen Kumar, Director of ICAR-CCARI, welcomed the delegates and highlighted the institute's achievements, while emphasizing the importance of research in addressing the vulnerabilities of coastal agriculture. President of ISAP Dr.Y. S. Shivay explained the vital role played by ISAP for sustainable agriculture and environment. He informed the gathering about the brief history of the ISAP. Dr. Pragati Parmanik Maity, Secretary, ISAP explained the purpose of the seminar. She highlighted the importance of Agrophysics research in agriculture, and she also briefed the detailed program of two day’s event.

    Fellow Awards were received by Dr. Santanu Kumar Bal, PC AICRP on Agrometeorology, Hyderada and Dr Burhan U Choudhury, Principal Scientist and Head, I.C.A.R NEH Regional Center, Tripura. DR. Shibendu Shankar Ray Best Doctoral Thesis Awards was  presented to Dr Alka Rani, Scientist, ICAR-IISS, Bhopal during the event, along with special felicitations. Dr. A. R. Desai, former Principal Scientist (Horticulture), was recognized for securing a patent for his cashew apple crunch innovation, while Mr. Payak Padkar received accolades for his eco-friendly decorations using coconut-based materials. The seminar also hosted exhibitions showcasing innovative technologies, attracting over 100 participants, including scientists, students, industry representatives, policymakers, banks, companies, etc.

    The seminar's major sponsors include NABARD, ICAR-CMFRI, Indian Potash Limited (IPL), Canara Bank, IFFCO, Zuari Industries, DTPL Enviro Tech Solutions Pvt. Ltd., and Paryan Alliance Pvt. Ltd., along with significant contributions from the Directorate of Agriculture, AHVS, Fisheries, Goa State Research Foundation (GSRF), and Goa State Biodiversity Board (GSBB).

    The inaugural session was followed by 11th Dr. B. P. Ghildyal Memorial Lecture, delivered by Dr. A. K. Singh, VC, RLBCAU, Jhansi “Taking Sicence and Technologies to the Farmers”.   A special session on Sustainable Coastal Agriculture is planned for January 24, 2025, focusing on innovative technologies and strategies to support agricultural development in coastal regions. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Gopal Mahajan, Senior Scientist at ICAR-CCARI, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, participants, sponsors, and organizers for their contributions to the success of the seminar.

This landmark event underscores the critical role of technology and innovation in addressing the pressing challenges of sustainable agriculture in India and beyond.