New R&D Initiatives
- Genome editing program in horticultural crops: A ICAR funded mega program has been initiated involving CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis for anthracnose resistance in chilli (CaERF28), Papaya potyvirus resistance (eIF4), Mildew resistance in Grapes, resistance to Bacterial nodal blight in Pomegranate, multiple disease resistance in tomato, Vitamin-D bio-fortification in Tomato and genome editing for precision guided sterile insect technique.
- Clean Plant program: This is an effort supported by Ministry of Agriculture and farmers welfare to secure availability of disease free planting material of focused fruit crops consisting of disease free mother blocks, diagnostic labs, tissue culture and quarantine blocks. ICAR –IIHR shall focus on Mango, Guava, Dragon fruit and Avocado.
- Drone technology in horticultural crops: The use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, has emerged as a revolutionary tool in modern horticulture. Their application in precision farming allows for efficient spraying of fertilizers and pesticides, optimized input use, and reduced labour dependency. ICAR–IIHR has been a pioneer in advancing precision farming through the adoption of drone technology under the ATARI Drone Project. Large-scale demonstrations involving the spraying of “Mango Special” on mango orchards covering 100 acres and benefiting 295 farmers. Similar demonstrations on potato, brinjal, and cabbage using “Vegetable Special” formulations were organized in Kolar Taluk, covering 50 acres and engaging 145 farmers. Capacity-building programmes, including awareness sessions and field training for students and drone pilots, further strengthened adoption. Ongoing research on standardizing pesticide application protocols for chilli, cabbage, and mango continues to advance science-led precision agriculture. Despite operational challenges such as limited battery endurance, drone technology has emerged as a highly efficient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly innovation, paving the way for a smarter and more sustainable future in Indian agriculture
- Natural farming of horticultural crops: A program has been initiated for identification of the horticulture crops/ varieties suitable for natural farming and to develop strategies for a well balanced supporting environment for sustained productivity
- Digital Horticulture: ICAR-IIHR has entered into MoU with several institutions like BEL, NRSC, CDAC and IIIT, (Bangalore) for collaboration, sharing of expertise and carryout research on AI/ML/IoT/Robotics in Horticultural crop production systems, software technologies including FOSS, sensors, flying drone(s) with Hyperspectral Cameras etc. for Digital Farming. IIHR and Presidency University are working on these topics through exchange of students to carry out internships and project works as part of their degree requirements
