Varanasi, India (16-17 April 2026) - Frontline extension staff are emerging as a critical force in advancing climate-smart agriculture in eastern Uttar Pradesh, as the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) strengthened frontline capacity through a hands-on training under the Uttar Pradesh Agriculture Growth and Rural Enterprise Ecosystem Strengthening (UPAGREES) project.

The two-day induction and hands-on training, held at the IRRI South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC) in Varanasi, brought together project staff to orient on strengthening technical and operational capacity for implementation on the ground.

The programme focused on improving the delivery of rice-based farming interventions aimed at increasing productivity, reducing resource use, and strengthening resilience to climate risks.

Participants were trained on key practices including direct-seeded rice, zero-tillage wheat, laser land levelling, and crop residue management. These approaches are designed to reduce water and labour requirements while maintaining yields and lowering environmental impact.

The training also covered data collection and monitoring systems. Field teams were introduced to GIS-based tools, digital survey methods, and reporting protocols to support tracking of project activities and outcomes.

Hands-on sessions included the use of GPS devices, field data collection tools, and operation of agricultural machinery such as seeders, levellers, sprayers, and harvesters. Participants were also trained in calibration and basic maintenance to support farmers adopting these technologies.

Project leaders said the training is intended to enhance knowledge and skill of the field staff and improve coordination among the project staff to ensure consistent implementation across target areas.

Dr. Vikram Patil, IRRI Scientist & Project lead, shared project vision and impact pathways while emphasizing accountability, coordination, and measurable outcomes.

Dr. Vikas Kumar Singh, ISARC Interim Director, urged the team to take ownership and remain committed as frontline extension personnel, emphasizing their critical role as the field-level interface of IRRI in driving precise adoption of technology.

He also noted that dedicated and purpose-driven efforts are essential to strengthening resilient and sustainable farming systems in Eastern Uttar Pradesh of India.

Dr. Sudhanshu Singh, former ISARC Director and now the Director of International Potato Center, South Asia Regional Center (CSARC), served as a chief guest of the event and highlighted the importance of field-led innovation and collaboration. He recognized the initiative as a key step toward transforming the rice–wheat system into one that is more productive, profitable, and sustainable.

He also emphasized that by addressing program challenges, the programme will enhance food security, climate resilience, and farmer livelihoods across the region.

The World Bank-supported UPAGREES project aims to strengthen the rice–wheat farming system in eastern Uttar Pradesh by promoting sustainable practices, improving efficiency, and supporting farmer livelihoods.