ICAR Forms Special Task Force to Address Agricultural Risks Amid Global Geopolitical Developments

08 April 2026, New Delhi: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has constituted a Special Task Force (STF) to assess emerging global challenges and develop strategies for the agricultural sector. The decision was taken during a meeting chaired by the Secretary, Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) and Director General of ICAR.

The Task Force outlined a framework focused on maintaining food and input security while strengthening field-level implementation.

Under the Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav (MGMG) programme, ICAR plans to expand outreach activities across 100 aspirational districts. The initiative will use existing institutional mechanisms to deliver complete packages of practices and improve farmer engagement.

ICAR will also initiate a campaign on soil health and fertilizer management. This includes district-level assessments to rationalize fertilizer use in major crops such as wheat and rice, along with the promotion of balanced nutrient application and bio-inputs.

As part of crop diversification efforts, ICAR is undertaking mapping of millet-growing regions to improve land-use planning. The strategy also includes identifying low-productivity rice areas for alternative uses, including integration of fisheries and other high-value activities during the Kharif season.

The Task Force has emphasized the adoption of mechanical and technological interventions, including Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR), along with strengthening advisory systems through existing meteorological research programmes.

To support implementation, nodal officers have been assigned across Subject Matter Divisions (SMDs) to monitor progress and coordinate action plans on a weekly basis.

ICAR stated that the Special Task Force will meet as required to review developments and provide inputs based on institutional data and field feedback.

Also Read: India’s Designer Rice Innovation: High-Protein Breakthrough to Tackle Diabetes and Malnutrition

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