Farmer-scientist interaction key to future of hill agriculture: Experts

Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, celebrated its 41st Foundation Day with a renewed resolve to steer the future of hill horticulture through innovation, diversification and climate-resilient practices.

Vice-Chancellor Prof Rajeshwar Chandel presided as the chief guest, while noted academician and former IIT-Kanpur faculty member Dr Vijay Kumar Stokes — grandson of Satyanand Stokes — attended as the guest of honour.

Registrar Sidharth Acharya traced the university’s legacy back to the College of Agriculture established at Solan in 1962, highlighting how the institution has consistently advanced its mandate of serving the hill farming community through education, research and extension.

In his address, Prof Chandel paid tribute to the visionary leadership of Dr Yashwant Singh Parmar, who advocated for specialised research institutions tailored to the unique agro-climatic conditions of Himachal Pradesh. He noted that the establishment of Asia’s first university dedicated exclusively to horticulture and forestry paved the way for similar institutions across India.

Acknowledging the unwavering support of farmers, he underscored the need for stronger farmer-scientist engagement, fruit diversification and the development of affordable, climate-resilient technologies that can help farming communities withstand emerging challenges.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr Vijay Stokes recounted his transformative journey of becoming a practicing farmer after retiring from academia. Drawing from rejuvenation work at the historic Harmony Hall Orchards — originally planted by Samuel Stokes — he shared scientific insights from ongoing experiments. Urging young faculty to think “out of the box”, he recalled anecdotes from his years at IIT-Kanpur and cautioned against the disruptions emerging from artificial intelligence, stressing the importance of adaptive learning.

As part of the celebrations, the university honoured five progressive farmers for their exemplary contributions. These farmers were recognised for their innovative and impactful work in various agricultural fields. Prakash Chand Rana from Kangra was acknowledged for his integrated farming model that combines turmeric, maize-beans, poultry, fisheries and beekeeping. Ashish Singh Rana from Jawali received recognition for his work in dragon fruit cultivation and natural farming. Anup Bhialaik from Kotgarh was honoured for his advancements in stone fruit production. Sunny Chauhan from Rohru was commended for his efforts in beekeeping and value addition. Additionally, Om Prakash from Dilman was recognised for his work in natural farming and farmer-student training initiatives. These farmers were celebrated for their outstanding contributions to agriculture and their commitment to innovative and sustainable farming practices.

The university also recognised 12 outstanding employees for their service. A friendly volleyball match between teaching and non-teaching staff was also organised, with the non-teaching team emerging victorious.

The event was attended by eminent retired scientists and staff, members of the Senate, Board of Management and Academic, Research and Extension Councils, along with progressive farmers, employees and students.