ICAR-AICRP on Spices

Event Highlights

The XXXIV Annual Group Meeting (AGM) of the ICAR–All India Coordinated Research Project on Spices (AICRPS) was held from 30 October to 1 November 2023 at the College of Horticulture, University of Horticultural Sciences campus, Bengaluru, Karnataka. The meeting brought together scientists from AICRPS centres across the country to review progress and discuss future strategies.

In his welcome address, Dr. D. Prasath , Project Coordinator, highlighted the achievements of various centres, actions taken on recommendations from the previous meeting, and ongoing research initiatives, including programmes for the Northeast region, SCSP, and TSP.

The event was inaugurated by Dr. S. V. Suresha , Vice Chancellor, UAS Bengaluru, who emphasized challenges faced by small and marginal farmers, the need for stronger extension outreach, adoption of Good Management Practices, and increased focus on value addition and export potential.

Dr. Sudhakar Pandey , ADG (FVS & MP), ICAR, presided over the session and commended the contributions of scientists and research centres. Dr. N. K. Krishna Kumar stressed the importance of addressing pesticide residues in spices, while Dr. S. B. Dandin and Dr. V. A. Parthasarathy highlighted strategies such as crop diversification, promotion of herbal spices, and improved data utilization.

Dr. R. Dinesh , Director, ICAR-IISR, spoke on key challenges and opportunities in the sector, and Dr. G. S. K. Swamy invited participants to visit the college and farm. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. H. P. Maheshwarappa .

Key Highlights & Announcements

Best AICRPS Centre Award

During the inaugural session, the Best AICRPS Centre Award was presented to SKN College of Agriculture, Jobner, Rajasthan , recognising excellence in spice research and development.

Farmer Innovator Honoured

Shri Ramakanth Ramachandra Hegde was honoured for his outstanding contribution in conserving indigenous landraces and developing the farmer variety 'Sigandini' .