Grassroot Innovations & Science Communication Workshop

The CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR) recently organized a special event, the ‘Grassroot Innovations & Skill Development Conclave for Rural Development’, dedicated to farmers as part of its One Week One Lab (OWOL) program. The event was inaugurated by Dr. Shekhar C. Mande, Former DG, CSIR, and Dr. Sanjay Kumar, Chairman, Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board (ASRB).

Dr. Ranjana Aggarwal, Director of CSIR-NIScPR, welcomed the attendees and highlighted that this event was part of the week-long OWOL program. The idea for this initiative was sowed by Dr. Shekhar C. Mande during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Sanjay Kumar emphasized the importance of technology being affordable and accessible to stakeholders, making it a powerful tool for the country. Shri Praveen Ramadas, Secretary of Vijnana Bharati (VIBHA), emphasized the need for self-reliance in villages and agriculture for the self-reliance of India as a whole. He also stressed on the use of CSIR technologies in rural areas.

Dr. Shekhar C. Mande echoed PM Narendra Modi’s vision of making India one of the most developed countries by 2047, underscoring the pivotal role of rural development in achieving this dream. The event featured a technical session on Scientist-Farmer Interaction, where CSIR technologies and labs were discussed. Scientists highlighted the importance of ensuring technology appropriateness for the community. Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Majumdar from NRDC emphasized that CSIR research ultimately serves public interests.

A training session on the Kisan Sabha App was also conducted, providing farmers with valuable insights into accessing real-time market information and various agricultural services.

An exhibition showcasing CSIR technologies for rural livelihoods was organized, and workshops on science communication for teachers and a ‘Student-Science Connect’ program were conducted. Overall, the event aimed to bridge the gap between laboratory experiments and society, emphasizing the importance of technology relevance and accessibility. It was a significant step towards empowering rural communities and promoting innovation in agriculture.