LG Sinha Calls for Transformative Agricultural Education to Drive Sustainable Growth
“We must sprint ahead in agriculture and allied sectors to fuel India’s growth story,” says the Lieutenant Governor
SRINAGAR,: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha yesterday underscored the need for a paradigm shift in agricultural education to ensure sustainable practices and future-ready innovations in the sector.
Speaking at the ‘Deeksharambh’ Student Induction Programme of SKUAST-Kashmir — themed “Anekta Mein Ekta Diwas” and held to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel — the Lieutenant Governor said, “We must sprint ahead in agriculture and allied sectors to fuel India’s growth story. For a developed India, our prime objective should be to achieve a consistent 5% annual growth rate.”
Emphasizing the importance of modern education and technology integration, LG Sinha urged institutions like SKUAST-Kashmir to focus on AI-powered farming, diversification into high-value crops, and strategic planning to enhance productivity and farmer income.
Applauding SKUAST-Kashmir’s academic achievements, the Lieutenant Governor expressed pride over its national standing and the presence of students from across India. “It is heartening to see youth from every state—from Arunachal to Andhra, Kashmir to Kanyakumari, Madhya Pradesh to Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu to Telangana, and Kerala to Karnataka—coming together on one campus. This vibrant diversity has transformed SKUAST-Kashmir into a true ‘Mini India’,” he remarked.
Addressing the students, LG Sinha said, “You are the inheritors of Sardar Patel’s vision and ambassadors of unity. As we honour the Iron Man of India today, let us reaffirm our resolve to strengthen the nation. Let your education not be limited to degrees, but be a force for positive change in society.”
On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor also felicitated social workers and prominent citizens for their contribution to society and visited the Chrysanthemum Garden on campus. The students’ cultural performances were especially appreciated by him.
The event was attended by Shri Aftab Malik, Chairman, District Development Council Srinagar; Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Kashmir; Shri Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary, Culture; Shri Akshay Labroo, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar; besides senior officials, faculty members, staff, and students.
