Governing Board

Message from the Governing Chair

At ICRISAT, we are driven by a bold vision: to empower vulnerable communities across the semi-arid regions of the world through pioneering agricultural research and sustainable development solutions.

As Chair of the Governing Board, I am honored to serve an institute and global community that plays a critical role in advancing agricultural research and rural development in the drylands — a region that covers nearly half of the Earth’s land surface and is home to approximately two billion people.

Our mission is ambitious and deeply meaningful: to harness the power of frontier science and our specialized mandate crops — backed by over five decades of expertise — to continue driving transformative change across the drylands.

Our work has significantly advanced food and nutrition security, bolstered the resilience of smallholder farmers in the face of climate shocks, market fluctuations, and other disruptions, and fostered more inclusive economic growth.

These innovations have had profound and far-reaching effects across the drylands — improving livelihoods in communities confronting severe challenges, as well as those living in relatively more secure circumstances, including in my own home country of Australia.

At the heart of ICRISAT is a spirit of innovation that drives our team of world-class scientists, researchers, and support professionals. Together, we are developing next-generation climate-resilient crop varieties, advancing sustainable farming systems, and building partnerships that support resilient livelihoods and thriving communities — all in pursuit of a more equitable, sustainable, and food-secure future for those in the drylands of the world.

We are proud to collaborate with a broad and committed network of partners. I encourage you to connect with us and contribute to this shared journey of progress, impact, and opportunity across the drylands and beyond.

Thank you for visiting.

Cathy Reade
Chair of the ICRISAT Governing Board