Strategic Framework for Collaboration
Under this partnership, ICAR and DRF will jointly develop vocational training programs for agriculture and allied sectors, leveraging DRF’s Lead Farmers Platform (LFP) and ICAR’s technical expertise. The collaboration will also advance climate-smart agricultural practices, promote sustainable farming methods, and support youth employability in agriculture and life sciences aligned with the National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF).
The initiative will particularly focus on small and marginal farmers, providing hands-on training in regenerative agriculture, biochar-based soil health solutions, climate risk mitigation, and resource-efficient practices. The programs aim to bridge gaps in agricultural extension services, strengthen market linkages, and enhance digital and financial literacy among rural communities.
Leveraging Expertise and Community Impact
ICAR brings nearly a century of expertise in agricultural research, extension, capacity building, and policy guidance, with a network spanning 113 institutes and 74 universities. DRF, a foundation set up by Dr. Reddy’s in 1996, has impacted over 2 million lives through programs targeting youth, women, persons with disabilities, and rural farming communities.
DRF’s flagship MITRA program has successfully supported over 80,000 farmers in adopting modern agricultural practices across multiple states. The MoU enables scaling this farmer-to-farmer model with technical validation from ICAR, enhancing both skill development and sustainable rural livelihoods.
Expected Outcomes
- Vocational Skill Development: Creation of industry-aligned agri-skill programs recognized by NCVET.
- Soil Health & One Health: Promotion of biochar and soil biologics solutions to improve soil quality and sustainable crop residue management.
- Climate Resilience: Technology-enabled guidance for climate-smart, regenerative farming practices.
- Market Linkages: Expansion of the Lead Farmers Platform to improve smallholder market access and price realization.
Initial implementation will target Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. A joint monitoring committee will track progress, ensuring quality and alignment with national skill development and agricultural priorities, including the Skill India Mission, PMKVY, and the Doubling Farmers’ Income initiative.
Leadership Perspectives
An ICAR official highlighted, “This MoU is a major step in mainstreaming agricultural skill development. Combining ICAR’s research with DRF’s community model ensures lasting impact on rural livelihoods.”
A DRF representative added, “Working with over 80,000 farmers has shown the importance of quality extension services. Partnering with ICAR allows us to scale our impact, benefiting rural youth and marginalized communities, including persons with disabilities.”
About the Organizations
ICAR: Established in 1929, ICAR coordinates agricultural research and education under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. It has played a pivotal role in India’s Green Revolution and continues to lead initiatives in agriculture, horticulture, fisheries, and animal sciences.
DRF: Dr. Reddy’s Foundation, founded in 1996, focuses on sustainable impact through education, livelihoods, healthcare, and community development. Its programs include MITRA (rural livelihoods), Sashakt (girl child education), GROW (vocational training), and PHC (primary healthcare).
