ICRISAT high on outstanding returns to investment in AR4D

City-based ICRISAT today said a growing pipeline of science-based agricultural innovations is impacting the lives of the dryland poor on a large scale, showing high returns on investment in agricultural research for development (AR4D).
International Crops Research Institute for Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) said in a 2014 impact assessment study of its 'breakthrough innovations' -- called 'Jewels of ICRISAT' -- a return on investment of USD 43 for every dollar invested, with an internal rate of return of 41 per cent, was generated.
By including innovations developed spanning four decades, average return on investment is higher at USD 70 (on per dollar invested), with an internal rate of return of 35 per cent, it said.

"These outstanding economic rates of return to investment in AR4D illustrate ICRISAT's core science and development impacts," ICRISAT Director General William D Dar told reporters here.
"The figures, while not representing the institute's total AR4D investment, are based on ten of its most successful initiatives," he added.
"These 'Jewels' represent ICRISAT's AR4D work in the drylands of Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, in collaboration with our development partners and stakeholders," Dar said.

"ICRISAT was a sinking ship that time (in 2000) and may be I can safely and proudly say that today the ship is in good waters and moving in the right direction," said Dar, who relinquishes his post on December 31, after three five-year terms.

"After 15 years, we have completely transformed ICRISAT into one of the best international agricultural research for development (AR4D) centers in terms of innovative and inclusive research programmes, scientific excellence, impact on smallholder farmers, and financial health and stability," said Dar, who assumed the institute's top position in 2000.
Reacting to a query, he said, "We are ready to work with Andhra Pradesh government, as we have done in Karnataka for last six years... We succeeded in helping the Karnataka government through 'Bhoochetana' scheme (aimed at boosting agricultural productivity with technological support from ICRISAT)."
"We are bringing that experience as an entry point now in helping Andhra Pradesh in 6 million hectares. We are now in the process of translating this primary sector strategy into action plans," Dar added.