In a groundbreaking initiative, Dr. Rajesh Kannan Megalingam, Head of the Amrita Coconut Research and Development (ACORD) Center at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, recently announced significant collaborations with the Parachute Kalparvriksha Foundation (PKF) and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).

Ranked among the top 10 universities in India according to the NIRF 2023 rankings, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham is set to leverage its expertise in academia and cutting-edge technologies to propel advancements in coconut farming practices.

The ACORD Center will take the lead in this collaborative effort, focusing on student training and high-quality post-graduate research initiatives. The MoUs with PKF and ICAR-CPCRI will encompass comprehensive studies covering crop improvement, production, protection, and various technologies, including robotics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Deep Learning (DL), drones, biotechnology, and more.

PKF, a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing farmer welfare, will contribute invaluable training and support programs. These programs cover essential areas such as nutrient management, pest and disease control, and water management, aiming to increase agricultural yields.

ICAR-CPCRI, with its rich history dating back to 1970, plays a pivotal role in the National Agricultural Research System. Initially focusing on coconut, arecanut, cocoa, cashew, oil palm, and spices, CPCRI expanded its mandate in 2023 to include Palmyra Palm. Today, it continues to lead research in these critical crops.

The collaborative efforts between ACORD, PKF, and ICAR are poised to revolutionize coconut farming practices in India and beyond. This tripartite approach, incorporating advanced technologies and a comprehensive focus on crop improvement and production, is expected to have a profound positive impact on the lives of countless farmers and communities.