15/08/2026
CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, Palampur, celebrated the 80th Independence Day with patriotic fervour as Director Dr Sudesh Kumar Yadav hoisted the National Flag and addressed the gathering of scientists, staff, and scholars.
In his address, Dr Sudesh Kumar Yadav reflected on the nation's scientific achievements over the past year and highlighted the institute's own remarkable progress. He noted that CSIR-IHBT scientists had won the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar, Vigyan Team (Agricultural Science), for the CSIR-Aroma Mission, released new varieties of aromatic crops, and achieved impressive success under the Floriculture Mission. He also spoke of the successful transfer of monk fruit agrotechnology and recent breakthroughs in its process development, along with the successful launch of Mission Bharpoor 2.0, the institute's initiative against childhood malnutrition in Kangra district.
Dr Sudesh Kumar Yadav expressed heartfelt gratitude to all scientists, technical staff, and research scholars for their dedication to science and for helping the institution scale new heights. He also extended his thanks to the administration, finance, housekeeping, and security staff for their grit and patience in keeping the institution running smoothly through the year.
The celebrations also saw the release of the institute's magazine, Manthan, by Mrs Kavita Yadav, President, Ladies Club, IHBT, along with Director Dr Sudesh Kumar Yadav.
The Independence Day celebrations concluded on a joyful note, with chocolates distributed among children and sweets shared with staff and scholars.
As the tricolour fluttered over the institute, the day closed with the words of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose ringing true in spirit: "Freedom is not given, it is taken." It is this very spirit of striving, of taking initiative rather than waiting for it, that continues to define CSIR-IHBT's journey, from the laboratory to the last farmer's field in the hills. CSIR, India Sudesh Kumar Yadav
