International Crop Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT)

The Accelerated Crop Improvement Program at ICRISAT focuses on developing drought-resistant crop varieties for Africa, Asia, and beyond. By employing advanced technologies like genomics-assisted selection, gene editing, and speed breeding, the program accelerates the development of crops with higher yields, improved nutritional quality, and enhanced resilience to climate change. It also works on establishing sustainable seed systems in India and Africa to ensure farmers have access to improved seeds. The program emphasizes a landscape-level, crop-systems approach, integrating intercropping, multicropping, and regenerative agriculture to support sustainable livelihoods and improved nutrition.

The Resilient Farm and Food Systems Research Program focuses on sustainable agricultural practices and innovative livelihood strategies. It aims to enhance land and water management through regenerative, low-carbon landscapes, while improving soil health for climate adaptation and mitigation. The program emphasizes resilient farming systems, integrating crops, livestock, and agroforestry for diversification, risk management, and income generation. It leverages climate information services, ICT, and digital innovations to support farmers in decision-making and mechanize agricultural value chains. By using geospatial and big data science, the program builds resilient dryland systems and provides early warnings for extreme weather, pests, and diseases.