In May last year, the central committee members from ICAR had conducted a review of the site. Though many agricultural institutes in the country have been carrying out research on the impact of climate on crops, the need for comprehensive study and research was felt and provisions for the same was put forth in the eleventh plan by the Planning Commission. The state government has offered 100 acres government land in Malegaon village in Baramati. Baramati has been chosen for ICAR’s sixth institute in the state for its connectivity, educational facilities, reliable water and power situation.

The ICAR, that has over 100 institutes in the country, will provide funds to the institute.

“Erratic rainfall, high and low temperatures, increasing humidity levels, increase in soil salinity, water pollution and contamination of air with heavy metals are bound to draw a negative impact on production. This kind of study will prepare us to counter such impact,” said an official from ICAR.

The institute will be adopt an integrated approach of different disciplines such as biotechnology, crop physiology, soil science and climatology. “An institutional approach is needed to address this issue. ICAR will also be looking at foreign delegates as faculty,’’ said the official.