Dr.Ashok Sarial’s Vision Reflected at ICAR-Jute Institute
Barrackpore, Kolkata – Former Vice Chancellor of CSK HPKV Palampur, Dr. Ashok Kumar Sarial, visited the ICAR–Central Research Institute on Jute and Allied Fibres (CRIJAF) . He was accompanied by Institute Director Dr. G. Kar and Dr. Chaudhary from ICAR Headquarters.
Dr. Sarial, known for his significant contributions to agricultural development and policy work in Himachal Pradesh, especially during his tenure as VC in HPKV Palampur, continues to be a guiding voice in the agricultural sector. His efforts have led to major improvements in farmer outreach, research extension, and institutional strengthening.
At CRIJAF, Dr. G. Kar, an IARI alumnus now in his second term as Director, showcased how the institute has evolved from focusing solely on jute to undertaking research on all seven mandated fibre crops. Under his leadership, the institute has commercialised several technologies, generating ₹3 crore annually in royalty—a key step toward financial sustainability amidst shrinking R&D budgets.
One of the institute’s standout initiatives has been fostering collaboration between farmers, the institute, and industry, resulting in better income security and applied impact on the ground.
During the visit, the dignitaries toured the institute’s museum, reflecting on the past, present, and future of fibre crop research—aligned with the visionary legacy of leaders like Dr. Ashok Sarial, whose work continues to inspire the agricultural community nationwide.
