Vikal Sharma
Dharamshala: Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University-Palampur has made remarkable strides in academics, research, extension programmes and agricultural outreach, said Himachal Pradesh Governor and University Chancellor Shiv Pratap Shukla.
Presiding over the 26th Senate meeting of the university in Palampur, the Governor praised the institution for its commitment and progress, stating that the university community deserves hearty congratulations for its achievement .
Ranked 13th among agricultural universities
Highlighting the university’s national standing, Governor Shukla said that the university has secured the 13th position among agricultural universities across India under the Indian Institutional Ranking Framework (IRAF). He credited this accomplishment to the hard work and dedication of the university’s teachers, researchers and students.
He noted the significant contribution made by the university through the development and approval of 182 new crop varieties and the registration of 27 indigenous varieties, enhancing agricultural productivity and farmer prosperity in the state.
Leading in innovation and smart farming
The Governor lauded the university’s role in promoting cutting-edge agricultural practices, including demonstrations of drone technology, smart farming experiments and the adoption of precision agriculture. He emphasised that the university is not only advancing agricultural research but is also translating this knowledge into practical field applications.
He urged agricultural scientists to direct their research towards increasing farm income, aligning with the national vision of a “Developed India by 2047.” Key focus areas should include natural and digital farming, crop diversification in hill regions, smart village development, post-harvest processing, cold chain expansion and direct farmer access to markets via platforms like e-NAM.
Boosting startups and youth innovation
Expressing satisfaction over the growing innovation ecosystem, Governor Shukla said the university’s incubation centre is providing vital support to agricultural startups under schemes such as Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RAFTAAR), the Chief Minister’s Startup Scheme and Startup India. These efforts, he said, are cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset among the youth.
Implementing NEP-2020 effectively
He commended the university’s proactive implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, especially its focus on experiential learning, rural internships and entrepreneurship training. He said the university is not only producing job seekers but also nurturing job creators.
Social responsibility and organic farming
Addressing broader societal concerns, the Governor emphasised the importance of including anti-drug awareness campaigns in all university outreach initiatives. He called on the campus to serve as a model of a safe, healthy and socially sensitive educational environment.
He also praised the university’s role in promoting organic and natural farming as an alternative to chemically intensive practices. He noted the university’s success in introducing high-value crops like blueberries in marginal areas, showcasing agriculture as a profitable career path for youth.
Global partnerships and financial responsibility
Currently, the university is managing approximately 140 research projects worth Rs 60 crore and has signed 67 national and international MoUs, reflecting a strong commitment to global collaboration in research and innovation.
While acknowledging that full financial self-reliance may not be feasible for public universities, the Governor stressed the importance of efficient resource utilisation, internal revenue generation and fiscal prudence to maintain competitiveness.
He also underscored the need for integrity in research, administration and education, emphasising that “our data must be unbiased, our approach transparent and our actions rooted in public interest”.
Concluding his address, Governor Shukla expressed confidence that CSK HPKV will continue to play a leading role in advancing the agricultural sector in Himachal Pradesh.
Earlier in the day, the Governor planted a Ginkgo biloba sapling, known as a “living fossil,” on the university campus.
During the meeting, Palampur MLA Ashish Butail called for a concrete action plan to promote turmeric cultivation in the region.
Dehra MLA Kamlesh Thakur emphasised the need for high-quality agricultural machinery for farmers.
Vice-Chancellor Prof Naveen Kumar presented an overview of the university’s achievements and initiatives.
The meeting was attended by Agriculture Secretary C. Pal Rasu, Governor’s Secretary C.P. Verma, Director of Horticulture Vinay Singh, Director of Fisheries Vivek Chandel, DC Hemraj Bairwa, SP Shalini Agnihotri, Joint Director Agriculture Dr. Rahul Katoch, University Registrar Madhu Chaudhary and several administrative officials and faculty members.
