Himalaya Harbinger, Uttarakhand Bureau.
The 36th convocation of Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, a cornerstone of India’s Green Revolution, was celebrated with great fervor under the aegis of Governor and Chancellor Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Gurmeet Singh. The event, held in Pantnagar, recognized the achievements of 1,172 graduating students and honored Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan and Padma Shri awardee Prem Chand Sharma with honorary Doctor of Science degrees for their outstanding contributions to the nation.
Speaking on the occasion, the Governor lauded the university’s legacy in agricultural advancement. “This is a proud moment for us, reviving the spirit of Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan. It is an honor to confer honorary degrees upon such illustrious personalities,” he said. Congratulating the graduates, their families, and faculty members, he emphasized the university’s role in transforming agriculture through education, research, and innovation. He noted, “Pantnagar has developed 355 high-yield crop varieties, significantly boosting agricultural productivity. Accelerated research is needed to meet future demands and benefit small and marginal farmers.”
CDS General Anil Chauhan highlighted the interconnected roles of farmers and soldiers in nation-building. “Both protect the foundation of our country—one through food security, the other through national security. Climate change is reshaping cropping patterns, making innovative research essential,” he said, inspiring the audience with his vision of a prosperous, self-reliant India.
Padma Shri Prem Chand Sharma, a progressive farmer, shared his guiding principles—mother, teacher, farmer, and soldier—and urged graduates to embrace rural development and combat migration. “These values are the backbone of a strong nation. Work towards Gram Swaraj and empower villages,” he remarked.
Vice Chancellor Manmohan Singh Chauhan detailed the university’s achievements, including its adoption of the National Education Policy 2020, making it the first agricultural university in the country to do so. He said, “Pantnagar has made remarkable contributions, from ensuring food security to developing two livestock breeds and 355 crop varieties that have significantly improved farmers’ incomes and livelihoods.” The university’s recent accolades include the Agriculture Leadership 2023 Award and a QS World Ranking of 331.
The ceremony also celebrated the achievements of outstanding students, with Diksha Upreti receiving the Chancellor’s Gold Medal for being the best graduate. Fifteen Vice Chancellor Gold Medals, 12 Silver Medals, and 12 Bronze Medals were also awarded. A book titled Achievements of the University in the Last Two Years was released, highlighting the institution’s milestones in research and innovation.
Governor Singh underscored the role of women in Uttarakhand’s agricultural sector and called for technology tailored to their needs. “Research should aim to ease the burden on women farmers while increasing productivity,” he said. Addressing the students, he added, “Dream with open eyes and work tirelessly to turn determination into accomplishment. India’s leadership in agriculture and technology depends on the efforts of our youth.”
The convocation concluded on a high note, leaving students inspired to lead the nation towards prosperity with their scientific expertise and unwavering commitment.
