📍 As part of the celebrations marking 12 Years of Development, the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Thiruvananthapuram, in collaboration with ICAR–Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (CTCRI), organized the regional media workshop ‘Varta’ at CTCRI, Sreekaryam.
🔹 Inaugurating the workshop, Dr. G. Baiju, Director, ICAR–CTCRI, highlighted the crucial role of journalists in bridging the gap between scientific research and society by communicating agricultural innovations to farmers in a timely, accurate, and easily understandable manner. He also outlined India's remarkable agricultural transformation—from food import dependence in the 1950s to becoming a global agricultural leader. He noted that foodgrain production has increased to 376.5 million tonnes, agricultural exports reached ₹4.3 lakh crore in 2024–25, and ICAR released 3,821 high-yielding crop varieties between 2014 and 2025.
🔹 Shri V. Palanichamy, IIS, Additional Director General, PIB Thiruvananthapuram, emphasized the responsibility of journalists in disseminating information on government schemes and development initiatives. He stressed the importance of truthfulness, accuracy, and continuous professional skill enhancement in journalism.
🎤 The workshop featured expert sessions on science communication and innovation:
• Dr. D. Jagannathan, Senior Scientist, CTCRI, delivered a session on “Agricultural Science for Society: Improving Lives and Livelihoods,” highlighting the role of agricultural research in enhancing farmer welfare, food security, and rural development.
• Er. V. V. Venugopal, Scientist, CSIR–NIIST, spoke on “From Research to Innovation: Transforming Science into Practical Benefits,” explaining how scientific discoveries can be translated into technologies and innovations that benefit society.
• Shri P. H. Sanal Kumar, Special Correspondent, Kerala Kaumudi, conducted a session on “From Rocket Launches to Research Laboratories: The Art of Science Reporting,” sharing insights into effectively communicating complex scientific developments to the public.
The programme also featured an exhibition showcasing CTCRI’s research activities, innovations, and contributions to sustainable agricultural development.
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