The World Vegetable Center celebrated its golden jubilee in Hyderabad

Formerly the Asian Vegetable Research and Development Center (AVRDC), WorldVeg has had projects in India and the region from the very beginning. As work developed and expanded, WorldVeg established its own office in India in 2006, first within ICRISAT, and now as part of its own facility on the ICRISAT campus.

For all that has been accomplished, we are indebted to the visionary support of WorldVeg management and long-term donors, especially Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the expertise and energy and the Center’s staff's and those of our many partners. The following are some a few selected impacts to give an indication, with many more across all countries in the region.

WorldVeg South and Central Asia has collaborated with built trusting partnership with numerous international and regional donors over the years, including the Australian Centre for International Agriculture Research (ACIAR), the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), UK Department for International Development (DFID), United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the World Bank, as well as a number of state governments in India. Some notable projects and partnerships include:

Strengthening connections with international and local organizations is key for sustainable interventions. Our dedication to innovation and collaboration will drive lasting change across the region to improve production and consumption of vegetables for sustainable food systems.

“We are very proud of our 50 years of existence, but our work is far from over. Our vision, for healthier lives and more resilient livelihoods through greater diversity in what we grow and eat, is more relevant than ever. Every country in the world is affected by malnutrition, and three billion people suffer from poor quality diets. Vegetables are often too expensive, or are simply not be available. People may be worried about excessive pesticide use, or they may just prefer junk food. Vegetables, like other nutritious foods, like fruit, pulses, millet and sorghum, mustgain more space on the farm and on the plate."

"With the rising health issues related to poor dietary habits, promotion of consumption of vegetables is very important. The region is diverse and has large development needs; there are many opportunities for WorldVeg to expand involvement across the region."

"Science is really great…we need that groundbreaking knowledge. But what use is it if it sits on a shelf? It’s got to reach people."

"WorldVeg has been sowing seeds and meeting needs for 50 years. We want to be a part of the next 50 with you."

Ramakrishnan Madhavan Nair, WorldVeg Regional Director, +91 81296 43917 - ramakrishnan.nair@worldveg.org