The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research (ICAR-DRMR) in Bharatpur and Pune-based M/s Ulink AgriTech have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA), marking a significant step for the oilseed industry in India. This partnership, formalised on 31st July, 2024 involves the non-exclusive licensing of the Rapeseed-Mustard Hybrid (NRCHB-506).
Dr P K Rai, Director, ICAR-DRMR, and Dr. Devraj Arya, representative, Ulink AgriTech, signed the MoA, highlighting the commitment of both organisations to advance rapeseed-mustard cultivation.
Dr Rai highlighted the potential impact of this agreement, noting that the commercialisation of high-yielding varieties like NRCHB-506 will facilitate the expansion of improved crop varieties, thereby enhancing the country’s self-sufficiency in oilseed production.
In addition to the NRCHB-506 hybrid, the ICAR-DRMR has also registered several trait-specific germplasms, which are expected to contribute further to the improvement of rapeseed-mustard crops. This development is poised to support broader agricultural goals and address the pressing need for higher oilseed production in India.
The MoA signing ceremony was attended by various officials from the PME, ITMU and ITMC, reflecting the collaborative effort and shared vision of advancing agricultural research and commercialisation. This agreement represents a notable step towards achieving greater productivity and self-reliance in India’s oilseed sector.
