In the series of events under “Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav”, ICAR-Directorate of Weed Research, Jabalpur organized an awareness programme on the occasion of “World Food Day” on 16th October 2021. Altogether 120 participants including farmers from different localities, students, researchers, scientists and other stakeholders attended the programme. Dr. R. P. Dubey, Principal Scientist, ICAR-DWR, in his deliberation, highlighted the history of “World Food Day” and also sensitized the audience about the theme i.e.“Safe food now for a healthy tomorrow”. He also emphasized on the importance of safe and nutritious food in order to contribute to the idea of developing hunger-free world. In his presentation Dr. Dubey highlighted the importance of nutri-cereals and bio-fortified crop varieties developed by the ICAR in combating the malnutrition problem. In addition, he also sensitized the audience about ‘One Health’ concept, requirement of creating Natural Local Ecosystem (Poshan Vatika) for small and marginal farmers and Healthy Eating Pyramid developed by the Harvard's School of Public Health.

Dr. J. S. Mishra, Director, ICAR-DWR, in his address, highlighted the quantum jump in agricultural production in India that took place after independence. This has not only facilitated in alleviating the poverty but also increasing the accessibility to the quality food while setting an examples of supplying food grains to a large mass of population during COVID 19 pandemic. This indicates self-reliance of India in agricultural production, and for which the contributions of Krishi Heros played a significant role. While highlighting the importance of the “World Food Day” he also sensitized the audience about the theme i.e. “Our actions are our future-better production, better nutrition, a better environment and a better life”. At the end of his deliberation he highlighted the significance of the food that we choose and the ways we consume it affect our health and that of our planet.

Dr. P. K. Singh, Principal Scientist, ICAR-DWR, in his brief address, highlighted the significance of “World Food Day” as it is celebrated to mark the anniversary of the founding of the FAO of the United Nations, every year, and this day aims at tackling global hunger and striving to eradicate hunger across the world. The programme ended with vote of thanks proposed by Dr. P. K. Singh.