ICAR-CRRI Hosts 38th Institute Management Committee Meeting 
The ICAR-Central Rice Research Institute (CRRI) convened its 38th Institute Management Committee (IMC) meeting on March 16, 2026. Chaired by Dr. G.A.K. Kumar, Director of ICAR-CRRI, the hybrid session brought together experts and stakeholders to finalize a roadmap centered on high-tech research, infrastructure modernization, and expanded staff welfare.
The meeting saw active participation from key members, including Dr. C.M. Khanda (Representing the Vice-Chancellor, OUAT), Dr. Vijay Pal Bhadana (Joint Director, ICAR-IIAB), Dr. C. Biswas (Principal Scientist, ICAR-CRIJAF), Dr. S. Mannivannan (Principal Scientist, ICAR-IARI), Dr. Sanjeev Panwar (Principal Scientist, ICAR Hqrs), and Shri Prabhat Kumar Nayak (F&AO, ICAR-CIWA). Joining via online mode were Dr. S.K. Pradhan (ADG, FFC, ICAR) and Shri Amiya Kumar Sahu, representing the farming community.
The Committee approved a strategic development plan for 2025–26, highlighted by a new Speed Breeding Facility. This project aims to fast-track the development of climate-resilient rice varieties using advanced genome editing. To strengthen the link between laboratory breakthroughs and the field, the IMC greenlit a Technology Cafeteria and ATIC Sale Counter, providing farmers with direct access to elite seeds and innovations. Additionally, a Multipurpose Activity Facility will be established at the current Guest House to serve as a modern hub for training and collaboration.
In a significant move to support its workforce, the IMC ratified several healthcare initiatives:
• Cashless Medical Services: Implementation of credit-based facilities at CGHS-empanelled hospitals in Ranchi for staff and retirees of CRURRS, Hazaribagh, and KVK, Koderma.
• Regional Support: Empanelment of major hospitals in Srikakulam to provide healthcare for staff at the Regional Coastal Rice Research Station (RCRRS), Naira.
To support Strategic Research and Digital Goals, the Committee outlined a vision for the coming year focused on:
• Resilience: Priority development of flood-tolerant, salinity-tolerant, and bio-fortified varieties.
• Regional Outreach: Launching field trials for red-rice in Bargarh, Odisha, and multiple-trait varieties for Upper Assam.
• Digital & Sustainability: The immediate operationalization of the RicExpert App and upscaling of paddy-straw management technologies.
The meeting concluded with the Committee emphasizing the timely renovation of legacy structures and disciplined financial management. Shri V. Ganesh Kumar, Senior Administrative Officer and Member Secretary, closed the session by reaffirming the Institute’s dedication to pioneering rice research and administrative excellence.
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