India’s Horticultural Future Takes Center Stage at IHC 2025

By Mani Skaria, PhD

I was truly fortunate to witness the 11th Indian Horticultural Congress (IHC 2025), held from November 6–9 at the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru. Built around the theme “Horticulture for Inclusive, Equitable, and Sustainable Growth,” the Congress highlighted India’s vision for a resilient and farmer-centered horticultural future.

Organized under the leadership of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), and supported by IAHS, ICAR–IIHR, UAS Bengaluru, and NABARD, the Congress showcased India’s scientific strength and institutional commitment to advancing the horticulture sector.

The inaugural session set a powerful tone. Dr. M. L. Jat, Secretary and Director General of ICAR, emphasized innovation, climate resilience, and farmer empowerment. Padma Bhushan Dr. R. S. Paroda, former DG of ICAR, followed with an inspiring address that underscored India’s strategic leadership in horticultural development.

I had the honor of contributing as an invited keynote speaker and chairing a scientific session on citrus. My presentation, “Citrus Tissue Culture and Clean Plant Systems: A Pathway to Sustainable Crop Production,” highlighted the need for disease-free planting material and resilient propagation systems—critical pillars for long-term sustainability.

The success of the Congress reflected the dedication of its organizers. My sincere thanks to Dr. Sanjay Kumar Singh, Dr. S. V. Suresha, Dr. Vishnuvardhan, Dr. S. K. Malhotra, Dr. V. B. Patel, and the entire team for their impeccable coordination and commitment.

Equally enriching were the personal interactions—reconnecting with colleagues like Dr. Bhimu Patil, who delivered the foundational lecture, and meeting distinguished scientists such as Dr. Avathar Handa from Purdue University. These conversations added depth and warmth to the scientific exchanges.

The Congress also showcased breakthroughs in climate-smart horticulture, clean plant systems, precision technologies, farmer-centric innovations, and market-driven solutions—all crucial for India’s horticultural progress.

As I left the venue, I felt deeply grateful. IHC 2025 was not merely an event but a milestone, reaffirming that India’s horticultural future is bright, ambitious, and driven by scientific excellence and collaboration.