ICAR-IGFRI Annual Report 2014-15

Abstract

ICAR-Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi, established in 1962, is the only Institute with a mandate for research on grasslands and fodder crops including annual and perennial grasses. With an holistic integrated approach towards multi-disciplinary research, the Institute strides to mitigate the large gap between supply and demand of fodder through technological interventions and development of high yielding fodder varieties. In its long journey of 53 years, the Institute has successfully passed through several milestones in generation of technologies with an ultimate aim to serve farmers of the country while maintaining sustainability, ecological balance and environmental protection. The Institute is comprised of seven divisions working on crop improvement, crop production, grassland management, farm machinery, seed technology, plant animal relationship and social sciences. In order to generate a complete package of information and technologies, we have moved from 'projects-to-programmes' mode of research, and grouped all the ongoing projects, into ten distinctive programmes generated with multi-disciplinary and inter -divisional approach with a view to balance basic, strategic and applied research. During 2014-15, we have gained knowledge on understanding basic know how of fodder related phenomenon, collected germplasm from national and international agencies, generated high yielding stress tolerant crops, and means to maximize outputs from sole, mixed crops, inter-cropping patterns as well as horti- and silvi-pasture models. Our out reach programmes in Bundelkhand, Leh, Chattisgarh and other far-off places allowed us to showcase our technologies and have gained appreciation among the stakeholders. To strengthen the seed chain and availability of quality seed to the end users, the Institute has produced 208.3 q of breeder seed for further multiplication and 432.3 q of TFL seed for direct supply to the farming community. Besides, 4.73 lakh rooted slips of perennial grasses were also sold. This year, the Institute took a lead in generating consortia and awareness to address fodder scarcity in the country. Three high level consultation meetings with the stakeholders of industry, seed producers, researchers and farmers were organized to identify gaps in research and development, and to prepare a road map. Our research and development endeavours were guided and supported by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. I am highly indebted to advisory committees viz., Research Advisory Council, Institute Management Committee and Quinquennial Review Team for their proactive role in guiding the Institute. I would also express my deep gratitude to the DG-ICAR, DDGs (CS) Dr S K Dutta and Dr J S Sandhu, ADGs (FFC) Dr R P Dua and Dr J S Chauhan for their guidance, encouragement and positive attitude towards the development of this Institute in both scientific and administrative issues. I would like to sincerely acknowledge the IGFRI staff including the Heads of the Divisions, PC(FCU), OICs-Regional stations, scientific fraternity, technical, administrative and supporting staff for their commitment towards the welfare of this institute and their high spirits in up keeping the reputation of this Institute. Their everlasting hard work, sincerity and cooperation helped in achieving the set targets. This Annual Report is a brief compilation of research, development, success stories, major events and administrative developments during the year 2014-15, to showcase Institutes' activities. I acknowledge the sincere efforts made by the editorial committee to bring out this report depicting the advancement of the Institute in last year and for documentation of Institute activities and achievements