- ‘Governor and Chief Minister attended the 11th convocation of Indira Gandhi Agricultural University’
- ‘1880 students received degrees, 13 students received gold medals’
Nearly 80 percent of Chhattisgarh’s economy is based on agriculture. Today, land is becoming increasingly scarce. Therefore, we must work to maximize production in less land. Value-added production is a crucial necessity for rapid economic growth.
These sentiments were expressed by Governor Shri Ramen Deka and Chancellor of Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur, at the university’s 11th convocation. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai was the chief guest, and Agriculture Minister Shri Ram Vichar Netam and renowned scientist Dr. Ashok Kumar Singh, former director of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, were present as special guests.
Medals and degrees were distributed to the students who passed in the academic year 2024-25 at a grand and dignified convocation held in the auditorium of Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur. Meritorious students who secured positions in the merit list in various faculties were awarded 13 gold, 7 silver and 2 bronze medals, along with PhDs to 128 researchers, postgraduate degrees to 518 students and graduate degrees to 1234 students.
In his presidential address, Governor Shri Ramen Deka congratulated all the students who received these degrees and medals. He said that convocation is a significant occasion in student life. It is not just a day to receive a degree, but also a symbol of the beginning of the future. When the university was established, only two or three streams were available. However, over time, education and opportunities have expanded.
Mr. Deka said that agriculture is undergoing a transformation today. It is now driven by science, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. The use of artificial intelligence, drones, satellite maps, precision agriculture, climate-friendly technologies, biotechnology, and data analytics is increasing worldwide. India is also rapidly advancing in this direction. Fertilizer and pesticide spraying by drones, soil health monitoring by digital devices, farmer advisories through mobile apps, and the e-NAM market are transforming the rural economy. Farmers and youth should also move towards modern and advanced farming.
Chhattisgarh is known as the rice bowl. But now we should also focus on producing high-quality rice like Basmati. This will facilitate procurement by corporate companies and provide better returns to farmers. Hydroponics and natural farming also hold great potential in the future. Students should also pursue agricultural pursuits. Mr. Deka said that Chhattisgarh’s soil and water structure are conducive to agriculture. Water here does not easily seep down, which helps increase production. With the right technology and approach, agriculture can be made more profitable.
Chief Guest of the Convocation, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, stated that the Agricultural University has accomplished remarkable work in the field of agricultural education and research, and that farmers are benefiting greatly from the new crop varieties and modern technologies developed by scientists. The Chief Minister stated that the state government is continuously working towards modernizing, profitable, and sustainable agriculture, prioritizing the interests of farmers. Along with paddy, the production of pulses, oilseeds, fruits, vegetables, and coarse grains is being promoted. He stated that schemes such as purchasing paddy from farmers at the rate of ₹3,100 per quintal, expanding irrigation projects, providing agricultural equipment, and free electricity have strengthened farmers’ economic conditions. He urged students to become a bridge between farmers and scientists by integrating drones, AI, and digital technologies into agriculture.
Agriculture Minister Shri Ramvichar Netam stated that numerous innovations are being undertaken to promote agriculture in the state. He noted that Chhattisgarh has the largest number of rice varieties. The state is known for aromatic rice. There is also immense potential for fruits, flowers, and spices. He urged students to pursue research and innovation, stating that Chhattisgarh will benefit from their knowledge.
Dr. Ashok Kumar Singh delivered the convocation address. University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Girish Chandel presented the convocation report, highlighting the university’s activities and achievements. He also delivered the convocation address to the graduating students. The Registrar delivered the vote of thanks. Present at the convocation were area MLA Padmashree Anuj Sharma, Vice-Chancellors of various universities, members of the university’s Board of Management, Academic Council, and Administrative Council, professors, scientists, university officials, students who received degrees and medals, and their parents.