81st Foundation Day and Dhan Diwas Celebrated at ICAR-CRRI, Cuttack
The 81st Foundation Day and Dhan Diwas of the ICAR–Central Rice Research Institute (ICAR-CRRI), Cuttack was organized on 23 April 2026 with great enthusiasm and participation from scientists, staff members, farmers, students, and distinguished dignitaries. Prof. Sanjay Kumar, Chairman of the Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board (ASRB), New Delhi, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, while Prof. P. K. Roul, Vice-Chancellor of the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar, attended as the Guest of Honour.
The Chief Guest, Prof. Sanjay Kumar, delivered his remarks appreciating the remarkable achievements of ICAR-CRRI and encouraging continued efforts toward innovation and excellence in rice research. The programme further included the 4th Dr. K. Ramaiah Foundation Day Lecture on the topic “India’s Path to a Sustainable Bioeconomy: Innovations in Bioresource Utilization and Valorization.” The lecture highlighted emerging opportunities in bioresource utilization, value addition, and sustainable bioeconomy development. Following the lecture, the speaker was felicitated by the dignitaries as a mark of appreciation.
The programme also included an address by the Guest of Honour, Prof. P.K. Roul, who highlighted the significance of rice in culture, rituals, traditions, and its integral role in everyday life, while also emphasizing the role of academic institutions in advancing sustainable agriculture and capacity building.
Dr. G.A.K. Kumar, Director, ICAR-CRRI, Cuttack, highlighted the institute’s significant accomplishments in rice research, technology development, extension activities, and institutional growth.
The programme commenced with a Welcome Address delivered by Dr. B. Mondal, Head, Social Science Division, who warmly welcomed the Chief Guest, Guests of Honour, invited dignitaries, and participants. Before Foundation Day lecture the speaker was introduced by Dr. Koushik Chakraborty, Organizing Secretary, who provided a brief overview of the significance of the Foundation Day Lecture.
During the programme, several publications were released, and a felicitation ceremony was conducted to honour retired staff members, meritorious students, lead farmers, best workers, and Best EAP awardees in recognition of their outstanding contributions.
On this occasion, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the ICAR–Central Rice Research Institute (ICAR-CRRI), Cuttack and Areia Agrotech Private Limited, Bhubaneswar for the commercialization of the inbred rice variety CR Dhan 310, marking a significant step toward technology transfer and wider dissemination of improved rice varieties. The Chief Guest also planted a sapling on the institute campus as a symbolic gesture promoting environmental sustainability and green initiatives.
Subsequently, an interactive Farmers–Scientists Interaction session was held, providing a valuable platform for farmers to share their experiences and seek scientific guidance. The afternoon session featured a vibrant cultural programme titled “Madhuram,” showcasing artistic performances by participants, followed by prize distribution for various competitions organized during the Foundation Day celebrations. The programme concluded with a formal Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. M. Sivashankari, Organizing Secretary, who expressed sincere gratitude to the Chief Guest, Guests of Honour, dignitaries, participants, organizers, and all contributors for making the celebration a grand success.
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