The ICAR–IIHR Central Horticultural Experiment Station (CHES), Bhubaneswar celebrated its 33^rd Foundation Day on 6 November 2025 with great enthusiasm and participation from scientists, farmers, stakeholders and students. The celebration featured a series of events including addresses by dignitaries, felicitation of farmers, cultural programs, blood donation camp, and various sports activities for the staffs. The celebration was graced by Sri Kalunge Gorakh Waman (Director of Horticulture, Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, Government of Odisha), Prof. Pravat Kumar Sarangi (Professor, SoADU, Bhubaneswar), Dr. Gourahari Naik (Former Head, CHES, Bhubaneswar), Dr. M. Nedunchezhiyan (SIC, CTCRI Regional Station, Bhubaneswar) and many other dignitaries from different organisation.

Dr G C Acharya, (Head, CHES, Bhubaneswar) welcomed the guests and presented the recent achievements of CHES, ICAR-IIHR, Bhubaneswar and the important contributions of the institute towards horticultural research, extension, teaching and its impact on the farming community of Odisha and neighbouring regions. Chief Guest Sri Kalunge Gorakh Waman spoke about the present status of the horticulture sector in Odisha and appreciate the crucial role played by CHES, Bhubaneswar in promoting improved technologies and supporting farmers’ livelihoods. Chief Speaker Prof. Pravat Kumar Sarangi delivered an inspiring lecture on the topic “Growing Health, Humanity, and Harmony through Horticulture,” highlighting the significance of horticulture in building a healthy society, ensuring nutrition security, and promoting harmony with nature. Guest of Honour Dr. Gourahari Naik, shared memorable insights from the early journey of the station and its initial developmental phase. Dr. M. Nedunchezhiyan recalled more than three decades close association between CHES and CTCRI and appreciated the station’s wide presence in farmers’ fields throughout Odisha. Mr. M. K. Pattanaik, In-charge of Staff Welfare shared the details of the day-long celebration program.

During the event, five progressive farmers were felicitated for their outstanding contributions in adopting and disseminating ICAR-IIHR technologies in their respective areas. The celebration also featured vibrant cultural performances by differently abled students from Bhima Bhoi Government Vocational Higher Secondary School for the Visually Impaired and BBC Government Vocational Higher Secondary School for the Hearing Impaired, along with performances by the staff of CHES, Bhubaneswar.

As part of the Foundation Day celebrations, a blood donation camp was organized where CHES staff members actively participated, demonstrating their commitment to social welfare. Various sports events were also held for the staff to promote team spirit, health, and recreation.