KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, Oct 31:
Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, on Friday emphasized the urgent need to revolutionize agricultural education to ensure sustainable and technology-driven practices for the future. Speaking at the ‘Deeksharambh’ Student Induction Programme of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Kashmir (SKUAST-K) — held under the theme “Anekta Mein Ekta Diwas” to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel — the Lieutenant Governor underlined the importance of aligning agricultural innovation with India’s developmental aspirations.
“We must sprint ahead in agriculture and allied sectors to fuel India’s growth story,” LG Sinha declared in his keynote address. “To build a developed India, our prime objective should be to achieve a consistent 5% annual growth rate.”
Highlighting the transformative potential of technology in modern agriculture, the Lieutenant Governor called upon institutions like SKUAST-Kashmir to lead the way in embracing AI-powered farming, precision agriculture, and diversification into high-value crops. He said that through strategic planning and innovation, these initiatives could substantially boost productivity, enhance farmers’ incomes, and ensure long-term sustainability in the agriculture sector.
“Educational institutions must cultivate change—not only in what they teach but in how they inspire the next generation to think beyond traditional farming,” LG Sinha said. “AI-based solutions, data-driven crop management, and climate-smart agriculture are no longer optional but essential tools for India’s agricultural revolution.”
Paying glowing tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India, on his 150th birth anniversary, the Lieutenant Governor said the event was a fitting occasion to reaffirm the values of unity and nation-building. “It fills me with immense pride to see students from across the country — from Arunachal to Andhra Pradesh, Kashmir to Kanyakumari, Madhya Pradesh to Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu to Telangana, and Kerala to Karnataka — learning together under one roof. SKUAST-Kashmir today reflects the true essence of a ‘Mini India’,” he remarked.
The LG praised the university’s rapid academic and infrastructural progress over the last few years, noting that it had successfully transformed into a hub of national integration and academic excellence. “The transformation that SKUAST-Kashmir has undergone in the last 3-4 years is nothing short of remarkable,” he said. “It is heartening to witness such an inclusive and vibrant learning environment where young minds are prepared to become the torchbearers of unity and progress.”
Encouraging students to live up to Sardar Patel’s vision of a strong and united India, LG Sinha urged them to make their education meaningful beyond academics. “You are the inheritors of Sardar Patel’s vision and the ambassadors of national unity. Let your education not be limited to earning degrees; let it empower you to make a tangible difference in people’s lives,” he said.
On the sidelines of the event, the Lieutenant Governor felicitated social workers and prominent citizens for their noteworthy contributions to society. He also visited the Chrysanthemum Garden within the campus, where he appreciated the horticultural innovations and the efforts of the university’s students and faculty.
The cultural performances presented by SKUAST-K students drew special appreciation from the Lieutenant Governor, who commended their talent and creativity in showcasing India’s cultural diversity.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Shri Aftab Malik, Chairman, District Development Council (DDC) Srinagar; Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Kashmir; Shri Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary, Culture; Shri Akshay Labroo, Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar; along with senior officials, Heads of Departments, faculty members, staff, and students.
The event concluded on a note of optimism, with LG Sinha’s message resonating strongly among the students — that the future of Indian agriculture lies in innovation, inclusivity, and the unwavering spirit of unity that defines the nation.
