Lauds achievements of universities and urges to focus on farmers and innovation
Punjab Newsline, Shimla/Palampur-
Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Krishi Vishvavidyalya (CSKHPKV), Palampur, has made remarkable achievements in the fields of education, research, extension programmes and agricultural outreach. The university fraternity deserves appreciation for these accomplishments. This was stated by the Governor who is also the Chancellor of the University, Shiv Pratap Shukla, while presiding over the 26th Senate meeting of the university at Palampur today.
He said that the university has secured the 13th rank among all agricultural universities in the country under the Indian Institutional Ranking Framework (IRAF). This prestigious achievement reflects the dedicated efforts of the university’s teachers, researchers and students.
The Governor highlighted that the development and approval of 182 new varieties and the registration of 27 indigenous ones were making a significant contribution to the prosperity of the farming community in the state. The demonstration of drone technology, innovations in smart farming and the promotion of precision agriculture show that the university was not only undertaking research but was also actively engaged in delivering these advancements to farmers’ fields.
He said that agricultural scientists must focus their research on increasing farmer's income. To realize the vision of a “Viksit Bharay” by 2047, it was essential to promote natural and digital farming, encourage crop diversification in hilly regions, establish smart villages, expand post-harvest processing and cold chains and ensure direct market access to farmers through platforms like e-NAM.
Governor said that the Incubation Centre established at the university was providing active support to emerging agri-startups under schemes like Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RAFTAAR), the Mukhyamantri Startup Scheme and Startup India. This was nurturing innovation among the youth.
He said that the university’s efforts in implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 have been highly commendable. Through experiential learning, rural internships and entrepreneurship training, students were being prepared not only to seek employment but also to become job creators.
The Governor while expressing concern over the pressing issue of substance abuse in society called to organize anti drug drives and abhiyans in all universities. He said that the campus should set an example of being not only a hub of academic excellence but also a safe, healthy and socially sensitive environment.
He said that the university has played a significant role in promoting organic and natural farming as a solution against harmful effects of chemical agriculture. By introducing innovative crops like blueberries in marginal areas, the university has shown that youth can embrace farming as a viable and profitable career.
The Governor further said that at present, the university was running 140 projects worth nearly Rs. 60 crore and has signed 67 national and international collaborations. These were strong steps towards global cooperation in research and innovation, which must now be made even more effective.
He said that while complete financial self-sufficiency cannot be expected from public universities, it was vital to strengthen their economic foundation through judicious use of resources, internal revenue generation, and frugal administration to remain competitive.
He firmly stated that there should never be any compromise on integrity in research, administration, or education. Our data must be impartial, our approach transparent, and our efforts always in public interest.
The Governor expressed confidence that the university will continue to lead the holistic development of agriculture in Himachal Pradesh.
Earlier, the Governor also planted a Ginkgo Biloba tree in university campus.
During the Senate meeting, Palampur MLA Ashish Butail emphasised the need to formulate a plan to promote turmeric cultivation in the region. Similarly, Dehra MLA Kamlesh Thakur stressed the importance of ensuring the quality of agricultural equipment provided to farmers.
Vice Chancellor of the university Prof. Naveen Kumar detailed about the activities and initiatives of the university.
Secretary Agriculture C. Palrasu, Secretary to the Governor C.P Verma, Director Horticulture Vinay Singh, Director Fisheries Vivek Chandel, DC Hemraj Bairwan, SP Shalini Agnihotri and other senior officers were also present on the occasion.