INTERNATIONAL AGRIC NEWS

NABARD, IIM-A join hands for agribusiness research

Agriculture forms the core of Indian economy. However, the sector has been battling crisis for the last few years that needs to be addressed urgently. Since India will soon become the most populous country in the world, meeting the needs of the growing population will be of utmost importance. At the same time, in order to help the farmer, it is necessary to increase his share of profits.

This can only be addressed by enhancing the efficiency of supply chains and addressing the issues of fragmented value chains that currently exist in the country. While the Central and State Governments are doing their bit to boost agriculture production in India, the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) and IIM-A have joined hands to use research for the betterment of the field.

Under the collaboration, a NABARD Professor Agribusiness Chair has been set up with the objective of encouraging applied and empirical research in the field of agriculture and rural development. “Integrating small/ marginal farmers under efficient supply chains and exploring the role of private sector in this regard shall be examined by the Chair Professor,” informs HR Dave, deputy managing director, NABARD.

The Chair Unit is also expected to offer solutions to problems confronting agriculture marketing and suggest innovative models that can make farming more profitable to Indian farmers.

As per the norms of NABARD, IIM-A will nominate a Chair Professor for undertaking research and teaching activities. Interested candidates can apply for the post at http://www.iimahd.ernet.in/news-events/announcements.html.

While IIM-A will provide necessary infrastructural facilities to perform the research activities, NABARD will provide financial assistance. This will include expenses related to salary, social security contributions including PF and gratuity, hiring/ contractual arrangements for secretarial services, organising seminars, workshops, symposiums etc.

While the tenure of the Chair Professorhip is three years, it may get extended for a further two years subject to NABARD’s review at the end of the initial three year stint. “Through the Chair Unit’s policy inputs and suggestions, the end-beneficiary of the research will be the Indian farming community,” signs off Dave.

Deliverables of the NABARD Chair Professor are the following:

a) Conduct research in NABARD’s area of interest

b) Collaborate with NABARD for joint research activities and policy issues

c) Offer peer review services for administering funds operated by NABARD and its publication programme

d) At least one research paper may be published in reputed Indian / foreign journal as single or first author, every year

Source:ZNews.india.com

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