CSIR and MSSRF Sign MoU to Boost Livelihoods for Rural, Tribal, and Farming Communities
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at generating livelihoods among rural, tribal, and farming communities. The MoU was signed by Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General of CSIR, and Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, Chairperson of MSSRF, with senior officials and representatives from both organizations in attendance.
Dr. N. Kalaiselvi highlighted the importance of this partnership, stating that while CSIR laboratories disseminate technologies developed in their labs to potential users, collaboration with grassroots organizations like MSSRF would enhance their outreach, particularly in the societal sector.
Dr. Soumya Swaminathan emphasized that MSSRF seeks low-cost, affordable, and effective technologies and technical support from CSIR laboratories. The MoU aims to facilitate this by overcoming barriers such as geographical location, language, and lack of resources that often prevent tribal and vulnerable communities from directly accessing CSIR labs.
The MoU establishes a framework for transferring affordable and relevant technologies from CSIR laboratories to societal groups selected by MSSRF. This includes mentoring self-help groups (SHGs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), farmer producer organizations (FPOs), and other voluntary organizations to generate livelihoods and empower women and tribal populations.
CSIR's vision focuses on pursuing science with a global impact, enabling innovation-driven industries, and fostering inclusive economic development for India. CSIR's diverse research and development areas include healthcare, agriculture, nutrition, biotechnology, energy, chemicals, mining, civil infrastructure, aerospace, electronics, and environmental sciences.
MSSRF, recognized by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, Government of India, is dedicated to tribal and rural communities with a pro-poor, pro-women, and pro-nature approach. The Foundation leverages appropriate science and technology to address practical challenges in agriculture, food, and nutrition through its sub-centres and field stations across the country.