ICAR’s ‘One Scientist-One Product’ Scheme

 The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) introduced the ‘One Scientist-One Product’ program on July 16, 2024, to enhance agricultural and animal husbandry research by leveraging the expertise of its scientists.

Key Features of the Program:

• Objective: Each of ICAR's 5,521 scientists will focus on developing a specific product, technology, model, concept, or notable publication.
• Annual Planning: Scientists will select their projects at the beginning of each year.
• Monitoring: Progress will be reviewed quarterly at the institute level and biannually at the headquarters.
• Duration: The program will operate for five years, initially concentrating on high-yielding oilseeds and pulses.

Focus Areas and Goals:

• Seed Development: ICAR aims to develop 100 new seed varieties and 100 farm technologies within the first 100 days of the program.
• Bio-Fortified Crops: ICAR's efforts have already led to the cultivation of bio-fortified crops on approximately 16 million hectares (Mha) in 2023-24.
• Variety Releases: Since 2014-15, ICAR has released 2,593 high-yielding seed varieties, including 2,177 climate-resilient and 150 bio-fortified varieties, significantly enhancing crop production even under adverse conditions.

Significance of the ‘One Scientist-One Product’ Program

1. Enhanced Focus and Accountability:

• By assigning specific products or technologies to individual scientists, the program aims to increase accountability and focus on research outcomes.

2. Accelerated Innovation:

• The initiative is designed to fast-track the development of innovative agricultural solutions, particularly in high-priority areas like oilseeds and pulses.

3. Improved Research Outcomes:

• Regular monitoring and evaluation will ensure that research projects align with ICAR’s strategic goals and contribute to tangible advancements in agriculture and animal husbandry.

4. Strategic Goal Achievement:

• The program supports ICAR's broader goals of increasing agricultural productivity, enhancing climate resilience, and improving food security through the development of high-yielding and bio-fortified crop varieties.

Potential Impact

• Agricultural Productivity: Development of high-yielding and climate-resilient seed varieties could lead to increased crop productivity and stability.
• Food Security: Improved seed varieties and farm technologies can contribute to better food security by boosting production and reducing losses.
• Scientific Excellence: The program encourages a culture of innovation and excellence within ICAR, positioning it as a leader in agricultural research and development.