Governor acknowledges PAU’s role in transforming nation’s agricultural sector

Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria visited Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) here on Saturday to attend a function against drug abuse and engaged in insightful discussions with Vice-Chancellor Dr Satbir Singh Gosal and other university officials. He highlighted the university’s pivotal role in agricultural transformation and its commitment to innovation and societal welfare.

Advertisement

A formal felicitation ceremony was held to welcome Governor Kataria, wherein Dr Gosal extended a warm welcome and apprised him of the university’s achievements and ongoing initiatives.

Kataria acknowledged the PAU’s significant contributions to agriculture sector and emphasised its role in addressing critical challenges such as food security and sustainability.

He underlined the importance of institutions like the PAU in shaping the nation’s progress, particularly through innovative research and farmer-focused solutions. He also highlighted the dual responsibility of higher education institutions to nurture young talent and foster an environment conducive to innovative and ethical practices.

Governor Kataria expressed confidence in the PAU’s ability to maintain its leadership in agricultural excellence while continuing to inspire future generations.

Dr Gosal, during the interaction, presented an overview of the institution’s illustrious history and ongoing advancements. He recounted the university’s pivotal role in spearheading the Green Revolution, which helped transform India into a self-sufficient and food-secure nation.

The VC highlighted the PAU’s contribution in the development of high-yielding crop varieties, pioneering technologies, and extensive farmer outreach programmes. He also informed the Governor about the university’s accolades, including the consecutive top rankings among India’s 75 agricultural universities by the National Institutional Ranking Framework in 2023 and 2024.

To commemorate the occasion, Dr Gosal presented the Governor with a memento representing the PAU’s commitment to agricultural excellence and societal welfare. The visit concluded with a reaffirmation of the institute’s dedication to sustainable agriculture and its vital role in shaping the future of Indian farming practices.

Rally against drug abuse

To enhance the momentum of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) and take the country towards a drug-free India, the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, held a special programme in convergence with the Punjab Government at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, today. The event featured a range of activities, including a mass youth rally and competitions at the school and college levels. A pledge to fight substance abuse was also administered to all participants. The event witnessed participation of students from colleges and universities, teachers, youths, police officials, etc. During the event, Governor Kataria distributed sports kits to students. Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Dr Virendra Kumar felicitated students who won prizes in the competitions. The minister also felicitated people who had recovered from drug use and begun a new life.