HYDERABAD, JANUARY 07. 2026; A three-day workshop on “Real-time Data Acquisition and Data Recording in AICRP Maize” is inaugurated at NAARM today, on Wednesday. The workshop deliberations focus on cutting-edge tools and methodologies for real-time data collection, such as IoT integration and digital platforms for precise data capture. How these technologies can improve precision in data collection, analytics, monitoring, and reporting platforms, eventually leading to the discovery of robust and high-yielding climate-resistant hybrids in maize crops, would also be discussed.
During the inauguration session, H. S. Jat, Director, ICAR–Indian Institute of Maize Research (IIMR), Ludhiana, emphasised the importance of data-driven approaches in transforming maize research. He noted that the workshop stems from the proposed draft Seed Bill, which envisages a Central Seed Committee with authority over crops and the establishment of a National Register of Seed Varieties. These provisions are expected to significantly increase the number of varieties submitted for testing by the Central Seed Committee. Anticipating this surge, IIMR has initiated discussions and taken steps toward real-time data acquisition and recording systems, which will not only save time but also ensure the generation of high-quality data, he added.
The Guest of honour, Gopal Lal, Director, ICAR-NAARM, said that real-time data is very crucial for predicting the future with AI tools. Data management and repositories, communication management and strategies; and food systems would play a greater role in the days to come, and hence, ICAR is stressing more emphasis on these, he reiterated.
R. N. Chatterjee, Director, ICAR-Directorate of Poultry Research, in his address, said that though maize production has increased, productivity and quality are more important factors which further impact the poultry industry. 45 varieties of maize are grown in the country. M V Nagesh Kumar, Director (Seeds), PJTAU, Guest of honour, said there are many seed companies approaching positively for the commercialisation and licensing of seed varieties. Around 100 maize varieties were released.
The workshop also aimed at hands-on demonstrations and interactive panel discussions. The results are expected to help shape future AICRP guidelines and collaborative projects. The All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Maize, under ICAR, coordinates nationwide research to improve maize productivity, resilience, and utilization. It supports farmers through varietal development, technology dissemination, and sustainable practices. The workshop is coordinated by N Sunil, Bhupender Kumar, SL Jat and Abhijit Das of ICAR-IIMR, Ludhiana. Earlier, Sunil, Principal Scientist, welcomed the gathering. Over 50 delegates from various ICAR institutes, state agricultural universities, and private sector partners are attending the workshop.
