The programme was inaugurated by the chief guest of the function, Dr. T Mohapatra, Ex. Secretary DARE and DG, ICAR. RAC members Dr. S.S Tomar, Former Director, Research and Service, J.N Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Dr. H.N. Verma, Former Director IIWM, Bhubaneshwar, Dr. A.M. Sheikh, Former VC Anand Agricultural University, Ananad, Gujrat, Dr. Sheik N. Meera Director, ATARI ZONE X, Dr. B. Venkateshwarlu, Former Vice-Chancellor, Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani, Maharashtra and Dr. Y.S. Ramakrishna, Former Director, ICAR-CRIDA were also present on the occasion.

Dr. V. K Singh, Director, CRIDA in his welcome address stated that spoke about the genesis of CRIDA and presented the progress made in dryland research including the project achievements, publications, copyrights, awards, etc. including upcoming challenges and opportunities. Dr. S.K. Chaudhari, DDG NRM graced the function in online mode and appreciated the progress made by the Institute. Dr. Y.S. Ramakrishna, Former Director, ICAR-CRIDA spoke about the rich legacy of the Institute that have helped in leading national level projects like NPCC, NATP, NAIP, NICRA etc. and Dr. Shaik N Meera, Director, ATARI Zone-X, expressed that Digital agriculture is the way forward. The achievements of NICRA are on par with or better than many other projects for climate resilient agriculture in the world.

Dr T Mohapatra during his foundation day lecture appreciated the contributions of ICAR-CRIDA in climate-proofing of dryland agriculture in wake of climate change. He called for effective utilization of crop germplasm and exploration of advanced technologies like genome editing for accelerated development of climate smart varieties. He urged CRIDA to adapt an approach of 'Digital climate resilient agriculture' in addressing the existing and upcoming challenges of dryland agriculture through effective management for natural resources for sustainable agriculture.

On this occasion, 36 best innovative farmers from different states of India were felicitated for their innovative farming practices for enhancing productivity and climate resilience. On this occasion, two mobile apps were released. The CRIDA employee awards were given merit certificates and super achievers awards. Best staff awardees and publication/patent awardees are also felicitated. The staff in administrative & accounts, technical and supporting categories were recognized for their significant contributions to the organization and felicitated. Prizes were also given to the winners of various sports events organised during the event.
 

Dr. V.K Singh, Director Welcoming the chief guest Dr. T Mohapatra	Dr. V.K Singh, Director presenting the achievements of the Institute
Dr. T Mohapatra, Ex. Secretary DARE and DG, ICAR delivering his address	Dr. V.K Singh, Director felicitating the chief guest
Dr. T Mohapatra, Ex. Secretary DARE and DG, ICAR​ released Mobile app	Best employee award
Best innovative farmer award	Best paper award
Super achiever award	Sports Award