The ISARC Training Grant is one of the initiatives under the International Rice Research Institute South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC) in collaboration with IRRI Education, aimed at strengthening the capacity of agricultural professionals in South Asia. Through this program, ISARC will support selected scientists from ICAR institutes and the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, in building advanced expertise in soil health management for rice-based cropping systems.
The grant supports participation in the Advanced Approaches to Soil Health Management in South Asia’s Rice-Based Cropping Systems short course, scheduled for August 26–29, 2025. This immersive training is designed for professionals in agriculture and allied sciences and covers:
- Soil health diagnosis, integration of organic and inorganic inputs, and water–soil–nutrient interface
- Innovations in conservation agriculture, residue management, and climate-resilient nutrient management for rice systems
- Hands-on modules on soil sampling, biofertilizer production, soil health kits, composting, and field exposure visits
The ISARC Training Grant will cover the course fee and accommodation for five (5) selected participants. This program aims to enhance the capacity of scientists to implement climate-smart, eco-efficient soil management practices that improve productivity and resilience in South Asia’s rice ecosystems.