Himanshu Pathak Assumes Charge As Director General Of ICRISAT
A distinguished agricultural scientist, Pathak brings decades of expertise to ICRISAT, strengthening its commitment to food security and sustainable agriculture in semi-arid regions
Renowned agricultural scientist Dr. Himanshu Pathak today assumed office as the Director General of the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) in Hyderabad, marking a significant step forward for the institute. ICRISAT, which is the only international agricultural research center in India, has long been at the forefront of tackling the challenges faced by smallholder farmers in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions.
Pathak brings a wealth of experience to the position, having served as the Secretary of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) and Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). His distinguished career spans multiple key roles, including Director of the ICAR-National Rice Research Institute in Cuttack and the ICAR-National Institute of Abiotic Stress Management in Baramati, India. Additionally, Pathak has had stints as a visiting scientist at esteemed institutions such as the University of Essex, UK, and the Institute of Meteorology and Climate Research in Germany.
“ICRISAT’s mission aligns perfectly with my passion for enhancing agricultural research and empowering communities in dryland areas,” Pathak said. “I am honored to take on this role and look forward to working with ICRISAT’s talented team to further our impact on food security and agricultural sustainability.”
Pathak’s academic background includes a BSc (Ag.) from Banaras Hindu University in 1986, followed by an MSc and PhD in Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) in 1988 and 1992, respectively.
ICRISAT, founded over five decades ago, has been instrumental in improving crop productivity, resilience, and sustainability in the semi-arid tropics, with a focus on key crops such as cereals, pulses, and oilseeds. The institute’s work spans East and Southern Africa, as well as West and Central Africa, where it partners with local communities to address pressing challenges such as climate change, soil health, and water management.
Pathak’s appointment comes at a critical juncture for ICRISAT, as the institute continues its commitment to uplifting smallholder farmers in some of the world’s most challenging agricultural regions. Under his leadership, ICRISAT is poised to build on its legacy of groundbreaking research, including innovations such as the world’s first pigeonpea hybrid and Africa’s first biofortified pearl millet, driving forward its mission of ensuring global food security.
With his strategic vision and proven leadership, Dr. Pathak is expected to help ICRISAT set new benchmarks in agricultural research, contributing to the development of resilient, sustainable agri-food systems worldwide.
