Haryana Agricultural University Workshop Explores 'Recent Advances in Agriculture for Self-Reliant India'

Advancing Self-Reliance through Agriculture

The fourth international workshop organised by Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University (CCSHAU) brought together eminent agricultural experts to discuss 'Recent Advances in Agriculture for Self-Reliant India' (RAASI-2024). The event underscored the crucial role of agriculture in realising the nation's vision of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India). 

Esteemed Guests and Patrons

The workshop was graced by the presence of esteemed guests, including Dr. Sanjay Kumar, Chairman of the Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board (ASRB), New Delhi, as the Chief Guest, and Prof. B.R. Kamboj, the University Chancellor, as the Chief Patron. Distinguished guests included Dr. P.L. Patil, Chancellor of UAS Dharwad University, and Dr. Girish Chandel, Chancellor of IGKV, Raipur University.

Promoting Local Products and Manufacturing

In his address, Chief Guest Dr. Sanjay Kumar highlighted the government's 'Make in India' initiative, announced in 2020, which aims to promote and enhance local products and encourage manufacturing in India, including the agricultural sector. He emphasised that agriculture can play a pivotal role in fulfilling the 'Make in India' resolution, as Indian agriculture now focuses not only on productivity and profitability but also on stability.

Adopting Modern Technologies for Self-Reliance

Dr. Kumar commended Indian farmers for increasing crop production and contributing to the nation's self-reliance by adopting new and modern technologies. He underscored the importance of embracing technological advancements to drive agricultural growth and achieve self-sufficiency.

Agriculture: The Backbone of India's Economy

Chief Patron and University Chancellor, Prof. B.R. Kamboj, emphasised the crucial role of the agriculture sector in making India self-reliant in the coming times. He acknowledged agriculture as the backbone of the Indian economy, providing livelihoods to millions and ensuring food security for the country's vast population.

Roadmap to Self-Reliance through Agricultural Education

Prof. Kamboj highlighted the need to reduce dependence on imports and encourage local products, as well as explore avenues for increasing exports. He stressed the importance of attracting youth and stakeholders to the agriculture sector, stating that agricultural education can serve as a roadmap for self-reliant India by fostering agriculture-based startups.

Embracing Modern Technologies for Increased Productivity

To increase crop production and enhance youth participation in the agriculture sector, Prof. Kamboj advocated for the adoption of modern technologies such as GPS, sensors, drones, and data analytics. He commended CCSHAU for playing a leading role in making India self-reliant through research activities, latest technologies, academic endeavours, and extension work for the welfare of farmers.