Patna: The ICAR–Research Complex for Eastern Region (ICAR-RCER), Patna, celebrated the 80th Independence Day at its campus, with director Anup Das calling for greater focus on innovation, sustainability and collective efforts to strengthen Indian agriculture.
Tribute to freedom fighters
Vande Mataram was sung, followed by the flag-hoisting ceremony and, finally, the national anthem.
Addressing scientists and staff, Das paid tribute to freedom fighters and martyrs and said India had made significant progress across sectors since Independence and was moving towards becoming a developed nation.
He appreciated the contribution of ICAR-RCER scientists and staff to agricultural development and improving farmers’ livelihoods in eastern India.
Focus on sustainable agriculture
Das highlighted the institute’s work on improved crop varieties and production technologies, integrated farming systems, rice-fallow management, livestock and fisheries, land and water management, and socio-economic and extension technologies.
He said such research had an important role in making agriculture more productive, resilient and sustainable.
However, he noted that Indian agriculture continued to face challenges related to climate change, resource sustainability, nutritional security, employment and farmers’ incomes.
He urged employees to work with a renewed sense of responsibility and commitment.
Call for innovation and teamwork
He stressed the importance of team building, coordination and collective efforts, while calling for greater emphasis on quality, innovation, integrity and professional ethics in research and institutional activities.
He also underlined the need for long-term and sustainable approaches to make agriculture more self-reliant.
“If each one of us sincerely performs the task entrusted to us with excellence, integrity and commitment, we can make a meaningful contribution towards achieving the goals of Viksit Bharat,” Das said.
He expressed confidence that ICAR-RCER would continue to contribute to agricultural development and rural livelihoods in eastern India through innovation and collective efforts.
Activities for schoolchildren
Various activities and competitions were organised for schoolchildren as part of the celebrations, with the aim of encouraging patriotism, creativity and awareness about the significance of Independence Day.
The institute said similar celebrations were held at its Sabajpura Farm in Patna, the Farming System Research Centre for Hill and Plateau Region in Ranchi, and the Krishi Vigyan Kendras in Buxar and Ramgarh.
The programme concluded with the institute fraternity reaffirming its commitment to advancing Indian agriculture and contributing to the broader goals of a self-reliant and Viksit Bharat, according to Umesh Kumar Mishra, member secretary, Media, ICAR-RCER, Patna.
