IIAB Ranchi NextGen Breeding Centre opened; ample urea, DAP for rabi
Why in the news
On 8 October 2026, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan virtually inaugurated a NextGen Breeding Centre and other buildings at the Indian Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology (IIAB), Ranchi. He also said fertiliser stocks are sufficient for the rabi season.
Key facts
- Venue: IIAB, Gadhkhatanga, Ranchi, Jharkhand, during a Rabi Kisan Goshthi (farmers’ meet).
- Value: projects worth ₹119 crore were inaugurated or had foundation stones laid.
- Buildings opened include a main administrative-cum-school building, the Birsa Munda multipurpose building, the Jaipal Singh Munda indoor sports complex and a guest house.
- Fertiliser: Chouhan said there is ample urea and DAP for rabi and farmers will not face shortage.
- ICAR DG Dr M.L. Jat noted that most Jharkhand farmers grow only paddy and leave land fallow, and urged pulses and oilseeds.
Speed breeding at a glance
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Up to 16 hours a day, with a shorter dark period |
| Conditions | Controlled temperature |
| Rice (paddy) maturity | About 50 days instead of 120 days |
About IIAB
The Indian Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology is located at Gadhkhatanga, Ranchi, and its director is Dr Sujay Rakshit. It works on research into local farming challenges in Jharkhand. Minister of State for Agriculture Bhagirath Choudhary also spoke at the event.
Exam angle
- Speed breeding shortens crop cycles to release new varieties faster.
- IIAB is in Ranchi, Jharkhand.
- Rice fallows offer scope for pulses and oilseeds.