Establishment & Mission

The ICAR-National Research Centre on Pomegranate (NRCP) was established on June 16, 2005 by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi. Located in Solapur, Maharashtra, the centre was created as a dedicated step to strengthen research and development infrastructure for the pomegranate crop — a fruit of growing national and international significance.

The centre's mission is to consolidate and advance scientific knowledge across all aspects of pomegranate cultivation, from genetics and plant protection to post-harvest technology and value addition. Through its laboratories, research farm, and collaborative networks, NRCP serves as a national hub for horticultural research focused on this crop.

The ICAR-National Research Centre on Pomegranate in Solapur serves as a dedicated institution for advancing pomegranate science and cultivation practices. Researchers at the centre work on developing improved varieties that are resistant to major threats such as wilt and bacterial blight, which have long challenged growers across the region. The centre also focuses on refining irrigation methods, soil management techniques, and the use of mulch to conserve moisture and improve fruit quality. By combining laboratory research with field trials at experimental farms, the centre generates practical knowledge that can be directly applied by farmers to enhance both productivity and sustainability in pomegranate orchards.

A key function of the National Research Centre on Pomegranate is its extension and advisory services for the farming community. Through training programmes, demonstrations, and published technical bulletins, the centre transfers scientific innovations to growers in Maharashtra and beyond. Topics covered include integrated pest management, canopy management, post-harvest handling, and value addition. The centre also maintains a germplasm collection of diverse pomegranate genetic resources, which serves as a vital repository for breeding programmes. These efforts help small and large-scale farmers alike to adopt better practices and respond to emerging challenges in pomegranate cultivation.

The centre's work extends beyond the field to encompass post-harvest technology and quality improvement. Research on storage conditions, packaging, and transport helps reduce losses and maintain fruit quality from farm to market. The centre also explores processing opportunities such as juice extraction, aril packaging, and by-product utilization, which can create additional income streams for growers. Publications and success stories document these advancements and share them with stakeholders across the pomegranate value chain. Through its comprehensive approach spanning genetics, production, protection, and processing, the centre supports the growth of a resilient and profitable pomegranate sector in India.