Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), the premier and oldest body in India representing Indian industries gave its prestigious FICCI Annual Award (2001-02) for Rural Development to Nimbkar Agricultural Research Institute (NARI). This being the Platinum Jubilee Year for FICCI added a historic value to the award.

The award in the form of a silver plate and a certificate was given by the Prime Minister Shri. Atal Behari Vajpayee at a glittering ceremony in New Delhi on December 13, 2002.

The citation of the award reads:

In recognition of Institutional Initiative in

Nimbkar Agricultural Research Institute (NARI), Phaltan, Maharashtra has rendered yeoman's service in the fields of agriculture, renewable energy source, animal husbandry, sustainable development, extension and research. NARI has been actively involved in the production of ethanol from sweet sorghum since 1980. The "NARI cotton" variety developed at the institute has helped farmers to earn additional income. Their other innovations are in the area of rural lighting, battery powered cycle rickshaws, as well as electric rickshaws, alongwith technology for harnessing locally available biomass. NARI has been conducting quality research in core sectors of agriculture; animal husbandry and renewable energy even in the face of several difficulties. More commendable is the fact that they have been able to sustain their research and development for more than three decades. In recognition of the above, the FICCI Award 2001-2002 for "Institutional Initiative in Rural Development", goes to Nimbkar Agricultural Research Institute (NARI), Phaltan, Maharashtra.

Dr. Anil K. Rajvanshi, the Director and Hon. Secretary of NARI received the award on behalf of the Institute.

Dr. Anil K. Rajvanshi receives the award from the Prime Minister Shri Vajpayee. On the right to Shri Vajpayee is Dr.Lodha the FICCI President.

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