ICAR Releases 184 Improved Crop Varieties in New Delhi

The Union Government has taken a major step towards strengthening India’s agricultural resilience with the release of 184 new crop varieties developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. The move is aimed at improving productivity, climate resilience, and farmers’ incomes while reinforcing the country’s food security.

Release of New Crop Varieties

Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare “Shivraj Singh Chouhan” released 184 new varieties covering 25 crops at an event in New Delhi. These include 60 varieties of rice, 50 of maize, and 13 oilseed varieties, along with several pulses, millets, and other crops. The newly developed varieties have improved traits such as higher yield, better nutritional value, and resistance to pests, diseases, and climatic stress.

India’s Food Security and Rice Leadership

Addressing the gathering, the Minister said India has successfully ensured food security and emerged as a global leader in rice production and exports. He noted that India’s rice production crossed 150 million tonnes in 2025, enabling the country to surpass China and become the world’s leading rice-exporting nation. He also highlighted that under the leadership of “Narendra Modi”, over 3,200 new seed varieties have been developed in the last decade.

Policy Measures and Agricultural Planning

Mr Chouhan said the government is working to ensure that agricultural schemes reach farmers across the country within three years of launch. He highlighted a new approach to planning through six zonal-level regional conferences held ahead of the national Rabi and Kharif conferences. These consultations are aimed at preparing a comprehensive Krishi roadmap tailored to the needs of different states and agro-climatic zones.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• 184 new crop varieties were released by ICAR.
• India’s rice production crossed 150 million tonnes in 2025.
• Rice, maize and oilseeds form a major share of the new varieties.
• Regional Krishi roadmaps are prepared before Rabi and Kharif seasons.

Seed Sector Reforms on the Anvil

The Agriculture Minister also indicated that the government is considering introducing the Seed Bill in the upcoming session of Parliament. The proposed legislation is expected to strengthen regulation, quality assurance, and transparency in the seed sector, further supporting farmers and promoting innovation in agricultural research and development.