Increase in knowledge base and continuing human resource development were the two most important activities that sustained and accelerated growth in rehabilitation of salt affected lands.

The research efforts created a nucleus that subsequently developed into centre of excellence in irrigation management with UNDP assistance. This centre helped training students, researchers and subject matter specialists from different universities and state development departments. Memoranda of Understanding were signed with state agricultural universities   whereby the Institute was recognized as centre of post graduate research and education guiding students for master and doctoral degrees..  The young scholars so trained are now manning responsible positions in other institutions and are helping in generation and application of appropriate technologies in different parts of the country. The advancements in science and technology were synthesized in the form of books, monographs and bulletins to spread knowledge and skills. An international training centre to provide know-how on drainage in saline environment was also established. It provided on-job training to personnel from development departments and refresher courses to researchers and teachers. The number of these individuals so trained runs into thousands. The centre has strengthened the national efforts for managing salinity and also helped the neighbouring SARC