Bengaluru, 04 September (HS): The ICAR – Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (ICAR-IIHR), established on September 5, 1967,

is the top-ranking institute of ICAR. With a mission to achieve sustainable horticultural development, the

institute has played a crucial role in ensuring livelihood security, economic growth, and nutritional security,

despite the numerous challenges faced over the years.

For nearly six decades, ICAR-IIHR has conducted

extensive research on fruits, vegetables, ornamentals, medicinal and aromatic plants, and mushrooms. The

institute focuses on both basic and applied research to enhance the productivity and utilization of tropical and

subtropical horticultural crops.

Additionally, ICAR-IIHR collaborates with national and international

agencies in horticultural research and development and more specifically with the State of Karnataka.

The institute has made significant strides in developing varieties and hybrids that are resistant to

various biotic and abiotic stresses while improving yield and quality and recently the Prime Minister

of India dedicated 13 varieties/hybrids of IIHR to the nation.

It also aims to develop technologies that

reduce production costs, manage soil health and the biosphere, and mitigate the adverse effects of climate

change on horticultural crop production. Notably, in 2023-24, the 10th SVRC Committee approved 19 new

varieties from ICAR-IIHR, and the 30th CVRC Committee notified 11 varieties, along with 24 new

technologies and innovations. Since 2014, ICAR-IIHR has also been functioning as an outreach campus of

ICAR-IARI, actively involved in postgraduate education.

The institute will be celebrating its

58th Foundation Day on Thursday 05 September. On the occasion the Deputy Director General, Education

Division, ICAR, New Delhi Dr Rakesh Chandra Agrawal has consented to grace the occasion and deliver a

talk on “Horticulture Education and Employment Opportunities in Amrit Kaal” and the Deputy Director General,

Horticulture Science Division, ICAR, New Delhi Dr Sanjay Kumar Singh has consented to preside over the

function.

Hindusthan Samachar / Manohar Yadavatti