RARS authorities and employees work for the conservation of mangrove forests and keep track of changes in the Kuttanad ecosystem. They test farm implements and make efforts to popularize improved ones. They retrieve and manage problem soil in the Special Zone. They also study the role of women in the agrarian economy.
The institute has also set up various types of biogas plants. These include the Deenabandhu model and the Floating Drum model. The plants are intended to create awareness about organic waste disposal methods and production of non-conventional energy among the local community. Biogas produced at the centre is utilised for drying agricultural products.