ICAR-ATARI, Kolkata, Joins Forces with AMTPL to Empower Women Entrepreneurs in Agri-Business

ICAR, Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute (ICAR-ATARI), Kolkata, and AgroPreneurs Market Technologies Pvt. Ltd. (AMTPL), Ahmedabad, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on January 24, 2024 to catalyse the growth of women entrepreneurs in agri-business and facilitate direct procurement of farm produce from growers. Under the brand Grains Global, this collaboration aims to empower and strengthen the agri-entrepreneurial landscape, providing women with the necessary tools and resources to thrive in the sector.

Boosting Farmer Networks

ICAR-ATARI and AMTPL have forged a strategic alliance to empower AgroPreneurs, facilitating access to suitable markets and fostering robust farmer networks. AMTPL will play a pivotal role by arranging buyers, securing working capital for the youth through bank loans, delivering free training encompassing processes, products, technology, and pricing, and assisting Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) in leveraging AMTPL's technology platform. This collaboration aims to enhance the efficiency of farm produce management and streamline the agri-value chain.

MoU Signing

The signing ceremony of the MoU took place in the esteemed presence of Dr. P. Bandopadhyay, Director, Extension Education, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Nadia. This collaborative effort signals a concerted push towards gender-inclusive economic growth and sustainable agri-business practices, aligning with the broader vision of agricultural development.

ICAR's Recent Initiatives in Agriculture

In January, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture (CRIDA) inaugurated a 21-day Winter School titled "Application of Weather Information for Climate Resilient Farming." This collaborative effort brought together 25 scientists and faculty members from diverse disciplines across 11 states in India, aiming to equip them with the latest advancements in climate-resilient farming practices.

Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Secretary (DARE) & Director General (ICAR), inaugurated the third phase of the 'Namami Gange' River Ranching Programme at Seoraphuli Ghat. As a 'Flagship Programme' approved by the Union Government in June 2014, this initiative with a budget outlay of Rs 20,000 crore strives to combat pollution and preserve the ecosystem of the Ganga.

Background

Established on July 16, 1929, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) stands as an autonomous body dedicated to coordinating education and research in the agricultural domain in India. Directly reporting to the Department of Agricultural Research and Education, Ministry of Agriculture, ICAR boasts the world's most extensive network of agricultural institutes for education and research, scattered throughout the country. Led by the Union Minister of Agriculture, ICAR continues to be a pivotal force in driving agricultural innovation and development.