Bhubaneswar, India – The Bhubaneswar City Knowledge Innovation Cluster (BCKIC) Foundation has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with HarvestPlus India, marking an important step in advancing biofortified crops and promoting nutrition security. This collaboration emphasizes the power of strategic partnerships in bridging research, innovation, and market access to ensure that nutrient-rich crops benefit farmers and consumers alike.

BCKIC Foundation, an initiative supported by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, is dedicated to fostering innovation, research, and entrepreneurship across multiple sectors, including agriculture, health, and sustainability. By joining forces with HarvestPlus India, a global leader in biofortification, this partnership will accelerate efforts to integrate biofortified crops into food systems, strengthening agricultural value chains and enhancing nutritional outcomes.

As part of this initiative, BCKIC hosted a workshop titled “Bridging Research & Market: Promoting Biofortified Crops,” bringing together key experts to share insights on advancing nutrition security through biofortification. The event featured distinguished speakers, including:

• Mrutyunjay Suar, Chairman, BCKIC & Director General, R&D and Innovation, KIIT University – Emphasized the role of innovation and collaboration in transforming agriculture and leveraging startups and technologies to develop sustainable value chains for biofortified crops.
• Namrata Mishra, Chief Executive Officer, BCKIC – Highlighted the importance of research and technology in strengthening food systems and improving nutrition outcomes.
• Sudhir Jha, Manager – Technology Innovation & Management, BCKIC – Shared insights on integrating technological advancements to drive sustainable agricultural practices.
• Binu Cherian, Country Manager, HarvestPlus India – Provided a comprehensive overview of the biofortification landscape and its critical role in addressing nutrition security in India.
• Birendra Mendali, Senior Program Manager, HarvestPlus India – Discussed strategies for strengthening the biofortification ecosystem and expanding its impact to reach more communities.

During the event, BCKIC Foundation also showcased the impact of its flagship initiative, MMSA, along with other programs aimed at fostering agricultural innovation and sustainability.

This collaboration strengthens the shared commitment of BCKIC and HarvestPlus India to empowering farmers, enhancing nutrition, and driving innovation in agriculture. By working together, HarvestPlus and BCKIC  are paving the way for a healthier, more resilient future where biofortified crops play a central role in addressing malnutrition and strengthening food systems.