Celebrating 43 Years of Innovation: CSIR-IHBT Marks Foundation Day with Vision for a Greener, Healthier Himalaya

The CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT), nestled in the scenic town of Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, celebrated its 43rd Foundation Day on July 2, 2025, with enthusiasm and pride. The event brought together scientists, farmers, academicians, industrialists, and students to honor the institute’s legacy and explore its future role in sustainable development.

Dr. VK Paul, Member of NITI Aayog and Chief Guest of the event, praised IHBT’s contributions to bioresource research and community welfare. He emphasized the transformative potential of Himalayan bioresources in improving livelihoods and tackling issues like women’s health and malnutrition. “Science and technology are the backbone of a developed India,” he said, urging the institute to continue its leadership in innovation.

The foundation day lecture was delivered by Dr. TR Sharma, National Professor and former DDG of ICAR, who highlighted the ecological and economic importance of rice breeding for disease resistance. His insights underscored the Himalayas’ rich natural heritage and its role in food security.

Joining virtually, Dr. Mahesh Kumar Dadhich, CEO of the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB), spoke about the urgent need to conserve rare Himalayan medicinal plants. He stressed the importance of sustainable management and promotion of these resources.

Guest of Honour Dr. AK Tripathi, Director of IISER Mohali, reflected on the deep connection between science and society. He lauded the CSIR Aroma Mission for empowering local communities and fostering grassroots innovation.

Welcoming the guests, IHBT Director Dr. Sudesh Kumar Yadav showcased the institute’s achievements in floriculture, aroma, and millet missions, which have significantly boosted the bioeconomy in the Himalayan region.

The celebration also featured several key collaborations and launches:

• MoUs signed with Tripura University and the Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine and Homoeopathy.
• Technology transfer agreements with Suraj Shree Chemicals Ltd., Himalaya Apiaries, H.P. Phytopulse, and Plant Hub Biotech Pvt. Ltd.
• Publications released, including the Annual Report 2024–25, books on economic impact and herbal crops, and a brochure on low-chilling apple varieties.
• Launch of a new CSIR Mission on “Bioresource Conservation and Prospection,” with accompanying video and brochure.
• Inauguration of the Herbal Stakeholder Meet, featuring expert sessions and a souvenir release.
• Opening of the Monk Fruit Germplasm Resource Center and Rose Demonstration Plots, showcasing IHBT’s commitment to biodiversity and innovation.

The day was a vibrant celebration of science, sustainability, and community, reaffirming IHBT’s role as a beacon of bioresource research in the Himalayas.