Ministry of Tribal Affairs Govt. of India declared ICRISAT as Centre of Excellence to support and strengthen active research in the field of tribal development in June 2018, Dr Peter Carberry, DG (Acting) ICRISAT and Dr Arvind Padhee, Director Country Relations ICRISAT, formally received the Certificate from the Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Govt of India, Mr Jual Oram, in New Delhi.
ICRISAT has been working for the development of tribals in Telangana in partnership with stakeholders. With improved livelihood, employment opportunities and decreased dependence on middle-men, tribal farmers in Adilabad district moved from subsistence to commercial operators. Pigeon pea and sorghum processing units were set up and self-employment opportunities provided for women and youth. The tribal farmers also increased yield through access to quality seeds and enhanced knowledge on crop production practices.
