ICAR–SBI Marks 114th Foundation Day

The ICAR–Sugarcane Breeding Institute (SBI), Coimbatore, celebrated its 114th Foundation Day on Thursday, marking more than a century of pioneering research and innovation in sugarcane breeding. Dr. Sanjay Kumar, Chairman of the Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board (ASRB), New Delhi, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
Delivering the Foundation Day address, Dr. Kumar lauded the Institute for its sustained legacy, noting that over 80% of India’s sugarcane area is cultivated with the Institute’s “Co” varieties. Drawing inspiration from the CSIR Aroma Mission, which tapped the potential of the wild marigold, he urged sugarcane scientists to convert emerging challenges into opportunities for innovation.
He emphasized the importance of studying the circadian rhythm and biological clock in sugarcane to evolve superior varieties. Stressing the prospects of bio-plastics, bio-energy, and the bio-economy, Dr. Kumar said these sectors would play a vital role in shaping
India’s future GDP and called upon the Institute to be ready for this changing landscape.
Dr. Raman Thangavelu, Director of the National Research Institute for Integrated Pest Management, highlighted the Institute’s national impact on varietal improvement while cautioning against challenges like rising harvesting costs, low ratoon yields, and pest and disease issues affecting sugarcane acreage in Tamil Nadu.
In his presidential address, Dr. P. Govindaraj, Director of ICAR–SBI, recalled the Institute’s enduring contributions, including the release of the mid-late maturing variety Co 17018 for the Northwest Zone, completion of 400 hybrid crosses, and supply of 3,000 tonnes of quality seed to farmers across India last year.
During the event, Dr. Kumar presented Certificates of Appreciation and released new publications of the Institute. The celebration witnessed the participation of over 300 delegates, including serving and retired staff members of ICAR–SBI.