The world’s population is expected to grow to almost 10 billion by 2050. The predicted increase in global population is likely to lead to increased demand for agricultural produce. While research investments in agriculture over the last 5 decades have seen substantial increase in the yields of a few major crops, the huge achievement is accompanied by a major downside, which includes erosion of our plant-based diets and loss of the biological foundation on which our farming practices are based. Only a handful of crops contribute to 60 percent of the world's food energy intake. Out of the 137 most significant crops globally, only 20 are cultivated on over 80% of the global agricultural area, while the remaining 117 are grown on a mere 20% of agricultural land area. The narrow genetic base of agriculture poses a significant risk to sustainable food security. Hence, it becomes imperative to develop innovative systems, including the domestication of previously wild or semi-domesticated crops, adding value to them, and optimizing their marketing processes. Alternate crops, distinct from traditional staples, offer high potential as phytoceuticals / nutraceuticals, enhancing farm income through differing cultivation protocols, seed sources, and marketing strategies.
The congress aims to bring together researchers, medical practitioners, and industry experts to address these issues. The congress outcomes are expected to foster international collaborations and create a roadmap for future domestication of these crops as "Smart Foods."
Royal Global University is one of the premium universities in India. Located on National Highway 37, Royal Global University stands high with its virtues of excellence and a humble contribution to the society at large. The university has been able to consolidate its foundation and to expand its scope over the last six years after its inception in 2017. Starting with 13 schools and 55 courses in 2017, the university at present offers 130+ Academic Programs under 27 Schools of Studies to more than 6500 students, under one roof to produce knowledgeable citizens and responsible leaders to the society. The University is privileged to have about 400 faculty members who are bringing their unique experiences from reputed academic institutions of India and abroad into the classroom of RGU. The culture of research and innovation in the University is growing steadily by having more than 1500 good research publications and a few innovations by the faculty members and students.
The University aims at creating and sustaining an environment whereby employment and entrepreneurship can flourish. With the help of collaborative efforts from its extensive network of influential corporates, individual members, and academic institutes, Royal Global University has been able to provide the necessary resources, knowledge, and support to create effective employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for the next generation of global citizens to lead and make a difference in the world. With its talented and motivated student body and accomplished faculty, RGU is a leading educational hub in the North-Eastern region that maintains a particular commitment to exceptional undergraduate and postgraduate programs.