Bhagalpur: Bihar Agriculture University (BAU) celebrated a significant achievement this week as its Betel Research Centre (BRC) in Islampur was once again named a “Centre of Excellence” at the national level. The recognition, announced during the 33rd Annual Group Meeting of the All India Coordinated Research Project on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants and Betel (AICRP-MAP&B), marks the centre’s third national accolade, following awards in 2017-18 and 2020-21.
Dr Shivnath Das, a leading scientist at BAU, was also honoured with the “Best AICRP Scientist Award” for his contributions to betel and medicinal plant research.
The three-day meeting, held from January 20 to 22 at the College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh, reviewed research work from centres across the country. Based on achievements in research, technological innovation, and project implementation, BRC Islampur was singled out for its consistent performance.
A key highlight of the event was the release of Geographical Indication (GI) – Authorized Users of Magahi Paan, a book intended to guide farmers, authorised users, and stakeholders following the GI recognition of Magahi Paan. The publication is expected to further strengthen the betel variety’s national profile.
The inaugural session featured Ninong Ering, MLA of Pasighat West, as chief guest. Ering highlighted the potential of medicinal and aromatic plants, as well as betel leaf cultivation, to boost rural incomes. Dr Sudhakar Pandey, Assistant Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), urged scientists to translate research into practical technologies for farmers.
Over the course of the workshop, scientists presented research findings on crop improvement, production, protection, and phytochemistry, finalising the technical programme for the coming year. Five technical bulletins and the AICRP-MAP&B annual progress report were also released.
More than 120 experts and scientists participated, alongside deans, department heads, and media representatives from CAU campuses nationwide. Distinguished attendees included Dr Manish Das, Director and Project Coordinator of ICAR-Directorate of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research, Anand; Dr L.M. Garnayak, Director (Research), Central Agricultural University, Imphal; Dr Wangchu, Dean of the College of Horticulture and Forestry, CAU-Imphal; and Dr Sanjay Swami, Dean of the College of Agriculture, CAU, Pasighat.
The recognition underscores BAU’s research excellence and is seen as a milestone for the national recognition of Magahi Paan, potentially providing economic benefits to farmers through its GI status.
