RTIIS–2026 Strengthens Research–Industry Synergy in Rice Sector 
The ICAR–Central Rice Research Institute, Cuttack, in collaboration with the Association of Rice Research Workers, Cuttack, successfully organized the National RiceTech Industry Innovation Summit (RTIIS–2026) at its campus, marking a significant milestone in strengthening the synergy between rice research and industry. The theme of this programme was “Transforming Rice Science into Scalable Industry Solutions”, the summit was sponsored by the IP&TM Unit, ICAR, New Delhi and witnessed enthusiastic participation from stakeholders across the country.
The summit was graced by Shri Sampad Chandra Swain, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Industries, Skill Development, and Technical Education, as the Chief Guest. Er. Prakash Chandra Sethi, MLA (Cuttack Sadar) and Dr. Neeru Bhooshan, Assistant Director General (IP&TM), Indian Council of Agricultural Research, attended as Guests of Honour, while the programme was presided over by Dr. G.A.K. Kumar, Director, ICAR-CRRI, Cuttack.
In his inaugural address, Shri Sampad Chandra Swain emphasized the need for closer collaboration between research institutions and industry to translate innovations into practical, farmer-friendly solutions. He highlighted the role of ICAR-CRRI in advancing Odisha’s agricultural progress and assured continued support from the Government of Odisha. Dr. Neeru Bhooshan stressed the importance of effective intellectual property management and strong industry–research linkages are crucial for transforming scientific innovations into market-ready, farmer-centric solutions, while, Er. Prakash Chandra Sethi underlined the need for innovation, skill development, and entrepreneurship to strengthen the agri-industrial ecosystem and enhance farmers’ income and rural livelihoods.
The technical deliberations were structured around four major themes, including resilient rice varieties, resource-efficient systems, smart mechanization, market-oriented processing, digital extension, and hybrid rice and apomixis. These sessions provided focused platforms for in-depth discussions on accelerating technology adoption and strengthening industry integration.
RTIIS–2026 served as a vibrant platform for innovation and partnerships, bringing together eminent scientists, industry leaders, agri-tech enterprises, start-ups, policymakers, and development agencies from across the nation. Key highlights included technology showcasing, interactive B2B meetings, signing of MoUs, and deliberations on future roadmaps. With participation of over 250 delegates, the summit emerged as a beacon of cooperation and progress, reaffirming ICAR-CRRI’s commitment to steering India’s rice sector towards sustainable prosperity and enhanced global competitiveness. The summit was meticulously coordinated under the leadership of Dr. M.K. Kar as Chairperson, with Dr. Biswajit Mondal and Dr. Arup Kumar Mukherjee serving as Co-Chairpersons. The organizational responsibilities were efficiently handled by Organizing Secretaries Dr. Sutapa Sarkar and Dr. R.L. Verma, with support from Co-Organizing Secretary Dr. Annamalai M. and Mr. Chinmaya Rout, whose dedicated efforts ensured the smooth and successful conduct of RTIIS–2026.
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