TFP Bureau, Raipur, January 21, 2024: The 38th Foundation Day of Indira Gandhi Agricultural University was graced by Vice President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, who underscored the pivotal role of farmers in national prosperity. Speaking at the event, he stated, “If our farmers are happy, then the country will be happy.” Shri Dhankhar recognized farming as not just a livelihood but a foundation for economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social development.
Expressing gratitude to farmers, Shri Dhankhar stressed the importance of integrating modern technology into agriculture. He emphasized, “Adopting modern technology in agriculture and supporting farmers can ensure food security for future generations and contribute to building a developed India by 2047.”
Governor Shri Biswabhusan Harichandan and Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai were special guests at the event. Vice President Shri Dhankhar unveiled three products derived from the new variety of paddy ‘Sanjeevani’—Sanjeevani Instant, Sanjeevani Madhu Kalk, and Sanjeevani Rice Bar. He also launched the ‘Krishi Darshika 2024,’ a publication by the university.
The Vice President, along with Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai and Agriculture Minister Shri Ramvichar Netam, inspected stalls by Agriculture Startup, Biotech, and Krishi Vigyan Kendra. They planted Molshree tree saplings on the university campus.
Addressing students and scientists, Shri Dhankhar recognized India as the fifth-largest global economy, crediting farmers for their indispensable role. He urged students to contribute to development goals, emphasizing better marketing, value addition in agricultural products, and the use of drone technology.
Shri Dhankhar emphasized tree plantation, technology use in farming, solar energy, and water conservation for climate change mitigation. Praising Chhattisgarh’s rich resources, he urged maximizing benefits for residents. He applauded India’s economic success and credited farmers, government schemes, and policies.
Governor Shri Harichandan highlighted the youth’s role in India’s global standing by 2047. He commended the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra campaign, fostering awareness and direct benefits of welfare schemes. Governor encouraged collaboration with startups for agricultural innovation.
Chief Minister Shri Sai pledged farmer well-being through collaboration with scientists and entrepreneurs. He highlighted PM Modi’s focus on agricultural progress, innovation, and research. The state aims for new heights in agricultural development in collaboration with the university.
Chief Minister praised the university’s contributions in education, research, and extension, lauding the development of crop varieties and agricultural technologies. He assured farmers of timely payments for paddy and announced financial assistance schemes.
The event celebrated Chhattisgarh’s agricultural legacy, promising sustained innovation in agri-technology. The Governor urged collaboration to enhance productivity sustainably. Chief Minister Sai encouraged students to embrace entrepreneurship, contributing to self-employment and job creation.
The event witnessed a large gathering of university officials, employees, scientists, and students.
