Himachal Pradesh Governor and Chancellor of CSKHPKV, Palampur, Shiv Pratap Shukla chaired the 26th Senate Meeting of the university today, commending its progress in education, agricultural research, extension, and innovation. He congratulated the university for securing 13th rank among agricultural universities nationwide under the Indian Institutional Ranking Framework (IRAF), crediting the collective efforts of faculty, researchers, and students.
Major Contributions in Research and Technology
The Governor appreciated the development of 182 new crop varieties and registration of 27 indigenous varieties, highlighting their impact on enhancing farmers’ incomes. He also lauded the university’s strides in drone demonstrations, precision agriculture, and smart farming, noting the practical transfer of technologies to farm fields.
Focus on Future Farming and Rural Prosperity
He emphasized the need to align university research with the goal of doubling farmers’ incomes and contributing to the vision of a “Viksit Bharat by 2047.” Key focus areas identified included natural farming, crop diversification, post-harvest management, smart villages, and promoting digital access to markets through platforms like e-NAM.
Support to Startups and Youth Innovation
The Governor praised the university’s Incubation Centre, supporting agri-startups under schemes like RAFTAAR, Startup India, and the Mukhyamantri Startup Yojana. He said such initiatives were nurturing entrepreneurship among rural youth.
Strong Implementation of NEP 2020
Acknowledging the university’s active implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Governor said students were being prepared through experiential learning, rural internships, and entrepreneurship training—transforming them into job creators.
Emphasis on Social Responsibility and Integrity
The Governor called for coordinated efforts across universities to combat substance abuse and ensure campuses remain socially responsible, healthy, and inclusive. He also stressed that integrity in research, teaching, and governance must remain uncompromised, with transparent processes and public interest at the core.
Organic Farming and Global Collaborations
Recognizing the university’s role in promoting organic and natural farming, the Governor cited the example of blueberry cultivation in marginal areas as a symbol of innovative agri-entrepreneurship. He added that the university is currently managing 140 projects worth ₹60 crore and has signed 67 national and international MoUs, positioning itself for global excellence.
He concluded by urging the university to pursue fiscal prudence while strengthening its internal revenue mechanisms, stating that financial discipline and efficiency are key to sustainability.
Earlier, the Governor planted a Ginkgo Biloba sapling on campus, marking the occasion.
Other Key Highlights:
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MLA Ashish Butail suggested a focused plan for turmeric cultivation in the region.
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MLA Kamlesh Thakur emphasized ensuring the quality of farm machinery provided to farmers.
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Vice Chancellor Prof. Naveen Kumar presented an overview of university initiatives.
Senior officials including Secretary Agriculture C. Palrasu, Secretary to the Governor C.P. Verma, Director Horticulture Vinay Singh, DC Hemraj Bairwa, and SP Shalini Agnihotri were present.
