Tue Feb 03 14:13:48 UTC 2026: ### ICAR-IISR Kozhikode to Host ‘Udhayam’ Entrepreneurship Fair and Agricultural Expo

The Story:
The ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research (ICAR-IISR) in Kozhikode is set to host the third edition of ‘Udhayam’, an entrepreneurship fair and agricultural expo, on February 5, 2026. The expo aims to promote value addition and strengthen market linkages for small-scale agricultural enterprises. The event will be inaugurated by Manoj Samuel, Director of the Centre for Water Resources Development and Management.

The expo will feature around 100 micro-and-small entrepreneurs from Kozhikode district and adjoining regions. Planting materials and agricultural inputs developed by the ICAR-IISR and the Kerala Agricultural University will be available for sale, including saplings of ‘IISR Chandra’, a high-yielding black pepper variety. The exhibition will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. with free entry.

Key Points:
* The third edition of ‘Udhayam’ will be held on February 5, 2026 at ICAR-IISR, Kozhikode.
* The expo focuses on promoting value addition and strengthening market linkages for small-scale agricultural enterprises.
* Around 100 micro-and-small entrepreneurs from Kozhikode and surrounding areas will participate.
* ‘IISR Chandra’ black pepper saplings will be available for sale.
* The event is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. with free entry.

Critical Analysis:
The Udhayam Expo hosted by ICAR-IISR Kozhikode is part of a larger trend of promoting agricultural innovation and entrepreneurship in India. This aligns with the recent focus on science expos and agricultural events as seen in Puducherry, Coimbatore, and Madurai. This shows a coordinated effort to support local economies by enabling the creation of new enterprises and promoting new agricultural technologies and inputs.

Key Takeaways:

  • There is a concerted effort to boost small-scale agricultural enterprises in the region through events like ‘Udhayam’.
  • The ICAR-IISR plays a pivotal role in disseminating improved planting materials and agricultural inputs to farmers.
  • Entrepreneurship fairs and agricultural expos are becoming increasingly common, demonstrating a national push towards agricultural development and innovation.

Impact Analysis:

The ‘Udhayam’ expo, along with other similar events, can have a significant long-term impact on the agricultural sector in India. By providing a platform for entrepreneurs and farmers to connect, these events can stimulate innovation, create new market opportunities, and improve the livelihoods of small-scale producers. The availability of high-yielding varieties like ‘IISR Chandra’ can also contribute to increased agricultural productivity and improved economic outcomes for farmers.

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