Varanasi: Odisha deputy chief minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo on Thursday visited the International Rice Research Institute South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC) in Varanasi and reviewed its research, innovations and technologies aimed at promoting sustainable and climate-resilient rice-based agri-food systems. During the visit, he toured key research and laboratory facilities and interacted with scientists and staff to discuss agricultural innovation, capacity building and partnerships.The visit focused on ISARC’s research, innovations and technologies aimed at promoting sustainable and climate-resilient rice-based agri-food systems.During the visit, the dignitaries toured key research facilities, including the Speed Breeding Facility, Varietal Cafeteria, Mechanization and Post-Harvest Unit, Direct-Seeded Rice trial plots, drone demonstration area and regenerative agriculture fields. ISARC scientists briefed them on technologies being developed and demonstrated to improve productivity, efficiency and sustainability in rice farming.Deo also visited the Geospatial Lab, Plant and Soil Lab, and the NABL-accredited Centre of Excellence in Rice Value Addition Labs, where he was briefed on ISARC’s advanced research infrastructure and initiatives to strengthen rice value addition and agricultural innovation.Following the field and laboratory visits, an all-staff town hall was organized. The dignitaries interacted with ISARC scientists and staff.Vikas Kumar Singh, interim director, ISARC, presented an overview of ISARC’s work, including IRRI and ISARC initiatives in Odisha, across India and in South Asia. He highlighted efforts in research, innovation, capacity building and partnerships to address key agricultural priorities.The visit underscored the importance of collaboration among policymakers, research institutions and agricultural stakeholders in developing science-based solutions for farmers.It also opened avenues for continued knowledge exchange and partnerships to support resilient and sustainable rice-based agri-food systems in India.
