On April 22, 2025, Union Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurated the Genome Editing Laboratory at the ICAR – Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research (IIWBR) in Karnal, Haryana. This advanced facility is designed to accelerate crop improvement through cutting-edge gene editing research.
During his interaction with farmers, the Minister emphasized the importance of innovation and the crucial role that research institutions play in enhancing agricultural productivity. He remarked, “Good seeds are the foundation of good crops,” while commending the IIWBR team for developing superior seed varieties. Additionally, he highlighted the increasing global demand for India’s premium Sharabati wheat, stating, “We are not just feeding ourselves; we are feeding the world.”
The Minister emphasized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for a developed India, highlighting that this goal cannot be achieved without transforming agriculture and enhancing the lives of farmers. "Our granaries must be full, and our farmers must prosper. The future of the nation is linked to the well-being of its fields," he stated.
Emphasizing the importance of connecting scientific research with rural practices, the Union Minister highlighted the government's initiatives, such as the launch of the Modern Agricultural Forum on the DD Kisan Channel. This platform enables collaboration between scientists and farmers to exchange knowledge.
He advocated for the direct application of lab-based innovations in the fields, ensuring that scientific advancements provide tangible benefits to farmers.
Later, Minister Chouhan attended the 21st convocation ceremony of the ICAR - National Dairy Research Institute in Karnal, where he awarded degrees to graduating students. He encouraged them to contribute to nation-building through innovation and dedicated service. Union Minister of State for Agriculture Bhagirath Choudhary and other dignitaries were also present at the event.
