International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), the Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), and Bhartiya Beej Sahkari Samiti Limited (BBSSL) formally entered into a Tripartite Service Agreement on 3 June 2025 to establish the Beej Anusandhan Kendra, a cutting-edge research center in Gujarat dedicated to advancing seed innovation and promoting sustainable agriculture.
As part of the agreement, ICRISAT has been appointed as the Knowledge Partner and will be responsible for preparing the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the center. The collaboration brings together ICRISAT’s global research expertise, IFFCO’s cooperative leadership, and BBSSL’s focus on seed quality and sustainability, forming a strong foundation for transformative agricultural progress.
This partnership builds on a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ICRISAT and IFFCO during ICRISAT’s Foundation Day celebrations, further strengthening the shared vision of advancing agricultural innovation and seed research.
The Beej Anusandhan Kendra (BAK), which will be constructed by IFFCO and operated by BBSSL, is envisioned to promote sustainable agricultural growth by integrating world-class seed research and development infrastructure. In its role, ICRISAT will provide scientific and technical guidance to define the center’s design, core functions, and operational framework.
“The Beej Anusandhan Kendra represents a convergence of science, cooperation, and grassroots action. As a Knowledge Partner, ICRISAT is committed to delivering a world-class blueprint that will enable this center to become a hub for seed innovation and farmer empowerment,” said Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Director General, ICRISAT.
The agreement signifies a major milestone in India’s cooperative-led agricultural research ecosystem. BBSSL and IFFCO contribute deep grassroots connectivity and cooperative strength, while ICRISAT brings international scientific excellence to establish a center poised to benefit millions of farmers.
“We are proud to witness this partnership with ICRISAT and BBSSL in laying the foundation for a research facility that will serve India’s farmers through scientific rigor and innovation. IFFCO remains committed to strengthening the agricultural ecosystem through sustainable and collaborative efforts,” said Yogendra Kumar, Chairman, BBSSL, and Director, Marketing, IFFCO.
“BBSSL envisions the Beej Anusandhan Kendra as a landmark step in supporting Indian agriculture with high-quality seeds and advanced research infrastructure. With IFFCO’s leadership and ICRISAT’s technical expertise, we are confident this facility will benefit millions of farmers across the country,” said Chetan Joshi, Managing Director, BBSSL.
