Why in the News?

The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), a Hyderabad-based international research institute with a focus on tropical dryland agrifood system innovation, has joined the One CGIAR integrated partnership.

What is One CGIAR Global Initiative?

• The One CGIAR global initiative is designed to establish a cohesive approach to transform food, land, and water systems in response to the challenges posed by the climate crisis.
• This collaborative effort involves the CGIAR System Organisation and 12 research centres operating under the umbrella of One CGIAR.
• CGIAR is a publicly-funded network of research centres focused on agrifood systems, operating in over 80 countries.

Key Facts about ICRISAT:

• ICRISAT, a non-profit, non-political international research organization, is dedicated to agricultural research for development in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa.
• Its mission is to support farmers by providing improved crop varieties and hybrids, particularly aiding smallholder farmers in arid regions to combat climate change.
• The organization specializes in research on five highly nutritious, drought-tolerant crops: chickpea, pigeonpea, pearl millet, sorghum, and groundnut.
• Recognized for its impactful work, ICRISAT was awarded the 2021 Africa Food Prize for the Tropical Legumes Project, contributing to improved food security across 13 countries in sub-Saharan Africa.
• ICRISAT is headquartered in Hyderabad, Telangana State, India, with two regional hubs in Nairobi, Kenya, and Bamako, Mali.
• Through its research and initiatives, ICRISAT plays a crucial role in addressing agricultural challenges and promoting sustainable development in diverse regions.