ICAR Releases 184 New Crop Varieties to Boost Climate-Resilient Agriculture

ICAR Releases 184 New Crop Varieties to Strengthen India’s Agricultural Resilience

In a major push towards climate-resilient and productivity-driven agriculture , the Union Government has released 184 new crop varieties developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) . The initiative aims to enhance farm productivity, raise farmers’ incomes, and reinforce India’s long-term food security amid changing climatic conditions.

Release of New Crop Varieties

The new crop varieties were released in New Delhi by Shivraj Singh Chouhan , Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. The release covers 25 different crops , including 60 varieties of rice , 50 of maize , and 13 oilseed varieties , along with improved pulses, millets, and other field crops.

These varieties have been developed with advanced traits such as higher yield potential, improved nutritional quality, tolerance to pests and diseases, and resilience to heat, drought, and other climatic stresses , making them suitable for diverse agro-climatic zones across India.

India’s Food Security and Rice Leadership

Addressing the event, the Minister highlighted India’s success in achieving food security and emerging as a global leader in rice production and exports. He noted that India’s rice output crossed 150 million tonnes in 2025 , allowing the country to overtake China and become the world’s leading rice-exporting nation .

He further stated that under the leadership of Narendra Modi , more than 3,200 new seed varieties have been developed over the last decade, reflecting sustained investment in agricultural research and innovation.

Policy Measures and Agricultural Planning

The government is also strengthening agricultural planning through six zonal-level regional conferences conducted ahead of the national Rabi and Kharif conferences . These consultations help prepare region-specific Krishi roadmaps , ensuring that agricultural schemes are aligned with local agro-climatic needs and reach farmers within three years of launch .

Seed Sector Reforms on the Anvil

The Agriculture Minister indicated that the government is considering introducing a new Seed Bill in the upcoming session of Parliament. The proposed legislation is expected to improve regulation, quality assurance, transparency, and innovation in the seed sector, further empowering farmers and strengthening India’s agricultural research ecosystem.

Important Facts for Exams 📌

• 184 new crop varieties released by ICAR

• Covers 25 crops , including rice, maize, oilseeds, pulses, and millets

• India’s rice production crossed 150 million tonnes in 2025

• Over 3,200 seed varieties developed in the last decade

• Regional Krishi roadmaps prepared before Rabi and Kharif seasons