ICAR-CIRCOT successfully organizes PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi 21st Instalment Live Streaming Event and Agri-Startup Exhibition

ICAR–Central Institute for Research on Cotton Technology (ICAR-CIRCOT), Mumbai organized the Live Streaming of the 21st instalment release of the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme by Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, along with a One-Day Agri-Startup Exhibition and Technology Demonstration under the RKVY RAFTAAR Agri Business Incubator (R-ABI). The event aimed to create awareness on farmer welfare initiatives and showcase innovative technologies that are transforming India’s agricultural ecosystem.

The program was graced by the special presence of Shri Pabitra Margherita, Hon’ble Minister of State for External Affairs & Textiles, Government of India. He appreciated ICAR-CIRCOT’s contributions in cotton research, value addition, and commercialization of technologies for the benefit of farmers and rural entrepreneurs. The Hon’ble Minister interacted with innovators and encouraged them to scale up their solutions to strengthen India’s textile and agricultural sectors.

More than 200 participants, including 85+ farmers, 26+ agritech startups, industry professionals, and research experts attended the event. Startups supported by ICAR-CIRCOT R-ABI demonstrated cutting-edge solutions in cotton processing, smart agriculture, food technology, and sustainable materials. Farmers were exposed to new technologies and business opportunities that can significantly improve productivity and income.

ICAR-CIRCOT, as a pioneering institute under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, has been continuously working towards improving cotton fibre quality, by-product utilization, and promoting circular economy innovations. Through its R-ABI, the institute plays a crucial role in nurturing early-stage agripreneurs by offering mentoring, funding access, technical support, and industrial linkages.

Impact of the Event

• Strengthened collaboration among farmers, startups, and market stakeholders
• Promoted awareness of flagship Government schemes supporting farmers’ welfare
• Enabled transfer of ICAR-CIRCOT technologies to grassroots communities
• Empowered farmers with modern tools and solutions for better livelihoods
• Amplified startup innovation opportunities in the cotton value chain and agri-allied sectors

The exhibition also highlighted ICAR-CIRCOT’s legacy of research-driven technologies, including nonwoven products, biomass utilization, value-added cotton-based materials, and mechanized processing solutions. The institute reaffirmed its mission to foster innovation-led growth and contribute to the national vision of an Atmanirbhar and technologically empowered agriculture sector.

The event concluded with enthusiastic participation and positive feedback from all attendees, marking a successful step forward in connecting science, startups, and society for sustainable agricultural development.