ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute celebrated 61st Foundation Day on 09 July 2024 at CTCRI campus in Thiruvananthapuram. Shri. Arif Mohammed Khan, Governor of Kerala, inaugurated the programme. Governor of Kerala released new technologies and publications, honoured progressive tuber crop farmers, meritorious staff and students. In his inaugural address he congratulated CTCRI for ‘the silent revolution’ in tune with nation’s goal of achieving food and nutritional security. He was eloquent in stating that through the CTCRI’s present research on bio-fortification, this poor man’s crop can become part of everyman’s healthy diet. According to Governor, the institute is a national asset, empowering farming community and provides immense contributions in national food security. Dr. G. Byju, Director, ICAR-CTCRI in his presidential address detailed about importance of the institute and its research activities. According to him, the multipurpose, climate resilient, future crops are popularised in different parts of the country and are included in ‘rainbow diet campaign’ for the nutritional security of the nation. CTCRI, the designated national repository for tuber crops in the country, is focusing specially in product diversification, livelihood security of tuber crop dependent farmers, women friendly technologies and bio fortification. Prof. Chandrabhas Narayana, Director, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram offered the special address and highlighted huge innovations and discoveries in tuber crops sector by the institute. He emphasised the need of concerted efforts in making the tuber crop based foods into children’s diet plan. Dr. G. Suja, Principal Scientist & Head, Division of Crop Production, ICAR-CTCRI delivered the welcome address. During the occasion an exhibition stall showcasing the various activities of ICAR-CTCRI was also arranged.
