In a significant step towards modernizing horticultural practices, ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (ICAR-IIHR), Bengaluru, and the International Centre for Free and Open Source Solutions (ICFOSS), Thiruvananthapuram, have joined forces by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on September 5, 2024. This partnership marks the beginning of a collaborative journey aimed at integrating state-of-the-art digital technologies into horticultural ecosystems.
The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation in research, development, and training, focusing on emerging fields like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, and sensor technologies. These innovations are expected to transform traditional horticultural practices by enhancing efficiency, productivity, and sustainability. The collaboration also emphasizes the use and development of Free and Open Source Software and Hardware technologies, fostering openness and accessibility in research, education, and extension activities within the horticultural sector.
Leaders from both institutions highlighted the importance of this collaboration in addressing the growing demands of modern agriculture. By leveraging digital technologies, ICAR-IIHR and ICFOSS aim to develop innovative solutions that can be readily adopted by farmers, researchers, and educators alike.
Dr. Sunil T. T., Director of ICFOSS, and Dr. Tusar Kanti Behera, Director of ICAR-IIHR, led the signing ceremony, accompanied by a distinguished panel of scientists and officials from both institutions. The MoU also encourages participation in externally funded academic exchange programs and collaborative research projects, further enriching the partnership’s scope.
This MoU signifies a bold step forward in merging technological advancements with the age-old practices of horticulture, bringing India closer to achieving its agricultural sustainability goals. By combining the strengths of ICAR-IIHR in horticultural research and ICFOSS’s expertise in open-source solutions, this collaboration promises to create a future where technology and nature work hand in hand for a more resilient and efficient horticultural industry.