The NAHEP-CAAST training programme on “Genomics Assisted Breeding for Crop Improvement” was organised during September 30^th – October 12^th, 2019 at Division of Genetics, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi.  The training was attended by twenty-six students from 19 different universities located in 14 different states.

Prof. R. B. Singh, Former Chairman, ASRB and Former ADG, FAO graced the inaugural function as Chief guest, which was also graced with the presence of Dr. A. K. Singh, Director, ICAR-IARI and DDG(Extension). A total of 29 lectures were delivered by eminent scientist from all over India including 19 scientists from ICAR-IARI, New Delhi; 3 scientists from ICAR-NIPB, New Delhi; 1 from CCSU, Meerut; 3 from NIPGR, New Delhi; 1 each from ICAR-NBPGR, New Delhi, Delhi University (South Campus), New Delhi and NABI, Mohali. Lectures covering both basic and advanced areas of genome assisted breeding including Genome sequencing, Advances in mapping QTL/gene, Association mapping, molecular breeding, Genome editing, base editing, High-throughput phenotyping, High-throughput genotyping, Rapid generation advancement, Bioinformatics, Genomic selection, Transcriptomics, Genomics, and Epigenomics.

Nine practical sessions including sessions on Data curation and handling of genotypic data, Linkage mapping, GWAS, High throughput phenotyping for disease resistance, Maize tool kit for genetic studies, DNA isolation and genotyping for MAS in rice/ maize, and bioinformatic analyses were also conducted. Visit to different facilities viz., genotyping facility, genome sequencing facility, rice and maize experimental fields, National Gene Bank, phytotron facility, and phenomics facility, was also organized for the benefit of the trainees. Prof. A.K. Tyagi graced the valedictory function with his inspiring valedictory talk and presented the certificates for the student trainees on 12^th October 2019.