The Production Unit of the Directorate of Knowledge Management in Agriculture (DKMA) plays a crucial role in planning, designing, and producing a wide range of printed and digital publications for the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). This unit serves as a vital bridge between agricultural research outputs and their effective communication to farmers, scientists, students, policymakers, and the general public. With a focus on quality, accessibility, and timely dissemination, the Production Unit ensures that ICAR’s knowledge products maintain high standards of design, print, and presentation.

The unit is responsible for the design, layout, formatting, typesetting, printing coordination, and quality control of various ICAR publications, including journals, books, annual reports, bulletins, manuals, newsletters, training materials, brochures, calendars, posters, and other outreach materials. These materials are published in both English and Hindi and are distributed across ICAR institutes, government departments, universities, extension agencies, and farmer networks. Many of these publications are also hosted on ICAR’s digital platforms to enhance accessibility.

One of the key responsibilities of the Production Unit is to ensure that the visual presentation of ICAR publications meets institutional branding standards and appeals to diverse readerships. The team collaborates closely with authors, editors, subject matter specialists, and the editorial units to prepare scientifically accurate and reader-friendly content. From cover design to internal formatting and illustrations, each step of production is handled with professional precision using state-of-the-art software and tools. The unit works in both print and digital formats to suit various distribution channels.

The Production Unit is also involved in the e-publishing workflow, where soft copies of publications are converted into accessible formats (PDF, EPUB) for hosting on ICAR’s online platforms such as the ICAR ePublication Portal used by in-house journals. This helps ensure wider visibility of ICAR’s publications and supports the Council’s commitment to open access and knowledge sharing.

Additionally, the unit manages the production of special publications and high-visibility documents such as the ICAR Annual Report, DARE Annual Report, Vision documents, commemorative volumes, foundation day souvenirs, and national-level event materials. These are produced under tight timelines with high design and print quality. The unit also supports other ICAR divisions and institutes by offering guidance or taking up assignments for their print or design needs as per requirement.

The Production Unit ensures that all materials conform to printing norms and government guidelines. It handles vendor coordination, printing press liaison, proof corrections, paper specifications, and final print delivery. Post-print, the unit oversees storage, inventory, and distribution of ICAR publications to libraries, institutes, government bodies, and other stakeholders.

By maintaining the highest standards of publication design and production, the unit enhances the visibility, credibility, and outreach of ICAR’s research and extension materials. Its role is vital in transforming scientific knowledge into well-designed, professionally produced resources that support agricultural development and knowledge dissemination across India and beyond.