ICAR and World Bank Partner to Revolutionize Agricultural Education

Key Highlights

• ICAR partners with the World Bank to modernize agricultural education.
• 77 universities upgraded with cutting-edge technology training.
• Over 514,000 students trained from 2017-2024.
• 90+ start-ups created, generating 500+ jobs.
• Focus on sustainability, profitability, and climate resilience in agriculture.

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has teamed up with the World Bank to modernize agricultural education, preparing India for a new Green Revolution. With declining farm profitability, India faces the challenge of making agriculture more productive, profitable, and sustainable. This initiative aims to produce skilled professionals ready to tackle these issues and lead the transformation of the agriculture sector.

Education Revamp to Meet Global Standards

Under this partnership, 77 agricultural universities in India have upgraded their curriculum to align with international standards. Students now receive training in cutting-edge technologies such as GPS, drones, data analytics, robotics, and artificial intelligence. These universities also offer opportunities to study abroad and learn from top experts, both from India and overseas.

Impact of the National Agricultural Higher Education Project

From 2017 to 2024, the World Bank’s National Agricultural Higher Education Project (NAHEP) provided USD 82.50 million to support ICAR’s educational reforms. Over 514,000 students have benefited from improved training, with annual student enrollment increasing from 25,000 to 64,000. Notably, 45% of these students are female, contributing to gender diversity in the sector.

Promoting Entrepreneurship and Job Creation

The initiative has also fostered innovation and entrepreneurship. More than 90 agricultural start-ups have been launched, creating over 500 jobs with an average turnover of Rs 92 lakhs annually. These young professionals are driving changes that are making agriculture more sustainable, helping to secure India's food future.

Leading a New Agricultural Revolution

Through these efforts, ICAR and the World Bank are empowering the next generation of agricultural leaders. With advanced education and technology, these professionals will help India lead the way in creating a climate-resilient and economically strong agriculture sector, securing food security for future generations.

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CMV360 Says

The collaboration between ICAR and the World Bank is set to transform India's agricultural sector by empowering skilled professionals with advanced education and technology. This initiative will drive a new Green Revolution, promoting sustainable farming practices, enhancing profitability, and ensuring food security for future generations.