President, Pranab Mukherjee launched an SMS portal exclusively for farmers. Through this new initiative, farmers can get agriculture related information and advisories as per their needs and location, and in their own language.

He called upon the Indian agricultural research system to find technological solutions to challenges being faced by Indian agriculture research and to reach out to the millions of small and marginal farmers.

On this occasion, the President and Agriculture Minister launched a number of important publications by the ICAR and presented awards to institutions, scientists and journalists dealing with agricultural research and education.

Among areas that need special focus, the President drew attention to quality seed production, agro-processing and post-harvest handling of farm produce, development and introduction of genetically modified crops, and preparing agriculture for climate change.