The National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS) organised New Year Get-Together on January 01, 2026, bringing together Fellows, Associates and members of the agricultural science community to welcome the new year and reflect on the Academy’s vision for the future.Dr. A.K. Singh, Secretary, NAAS, extended a warm welcome and introduced the newly elected Office-bearers Dr. M.L. Jat (President), Dr. B.S. Dwivedi (Secretary), Dr. R.K. Pal (Editor), and EC Members, Dr. Dilip Jain; Dr. D.L.N. Rao; Dr. K. Madhavi Reddy; and Dr. Rajarshi Roy Burman, Fellows and Associates, followed by a felicitation of the outgoing Office bearers and EC members in recognition of their service to the Academy Dr. Himanshu Pathak; Dr. W.S. Lakra; Dr. V.K. Baranwal; Dr. Anjani Kumar; Dr. A.S. Raghvendra; Dr. E.V.S. Prakasa Rao; and Dr. R.T. Patil. The event also featured the release of NAAS Year Book 2026 and NAAS Planner 2026.The programme was enriched with reflections and remarks by NAAS Past Presidents, Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Dr. T. Mohapatra, Dr. R. B. Singh, and Dr. R. S. Paroda, who highlighted the Academy’s journey, scientific advancements, and the need for continued collaborative efforts to strengthen Indian agriculture. They underscored the enduring relevance of NAAS in a rapidly changing agricultural landscape. They emphasized that:Agriculture remains central to economic development, livelihoods, and food security; NAAS must continue to function as an independent, science-based advisory body; Technologies such as genome editing require sustained scientific advocacy and evidence-based policy engagement; Continuous introspection, inclusivity, and responsiveness are essential for institutional growth.Dr. M.L. Jat, President, NAAS, delivered new year greetings emphasising innovation, inclusiveness and forward-looking strategies for science-led agricultural transformation.The general discussionon The Future Plan of the Academy facilitated by Dr. A.K. Singh, reflected a strong consensus on the growing relevance of NAAS as an independent, science-driven think tank contributing meaningfully to national agricultural development and policy discourse. Participants appreciated the expansion and diversification of NAAS programmes, including strengthened regional chapters, youth engagement initiatives, international collaborations, and enhanced visibility through publications and outreach activities. In addition, the discussion positively acknowledged forward-looking and inclusive initiatives, particularly the focus on engaging younger scientists, encouraging greater participation of women scientists, and promoting evidence-based deliberations on emerging technologies. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. B.S. Dwivedi.
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