Gyandev Tripathi, Additional Secretary, Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) and Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), visited the ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), to review the institute’s cutting-edge academic, research, and extension milestones.
Scientists showcased major breakthroughs of the institute like cloning, gene editing and dairy innovations.
A sports enthusiast himself, Tripathi lauded NDRI’s efforts in providing a holistic, balanced environment that promotes both academic excellence and physical well-being of its students.
Tripathi described the experience as a great learning opportunity. He affirmed his commitment to bridging the gap between research and policy, stating that he would actively make efforts to integrate NDRI’s cutting-edge technologies and research into the flagship dairy development programmes of the nation.
Tripathi praised the work being executed by the institute. Impressed by the dedication and commitment of the Director, faculty and students, he promised all requisite support and guidance to elevate NDRI to an institute of global eminence. As part of his itinerary, the Additional Secretary toured the critical infrastructure of the campus, including Livestock Research Centre (LRC), Animal Breeding Research Centre (ABRC), state-of-the-art Model Dairy Plant and institute’s extensive sports facilities.
Dr Dheer Singh, Director of ICAR-NDRI, welcomed the dignitary and provided a comprehensive briefing on the institute’s multifaceted contributions to the dairy sector.
Dr Dheer Singh led a demonstration of NDRI’s landmark achievements, highlighting the institute’s leadership in transforming the dairy landscape. The key highlights included advanced animal biotechnology: ground-breaking progress in animal breeding, advanced reproduction technologies, including cloning, and the development of gene-edited animals. Innovations in food safety were also highlighted. Besides novel dairy products and advanced animal nutrition technologies aimed at enhancing livestock health and productivity were showcased.
Dr Singh emphasised that NDRI stands as a unique educational institution globally, encompassing all facets of the dairy sector under one roof.
“NDRI has contributed to building high-quality human resources for both the Indian and global dairy industries. We are not just imparting technical knowledge; we are actively inculcating core values for societal and environmental development aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” Dr Singh added.
