Bhagalpur: Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour, celebrated its 17th Foundation Day on Wednesday with the launch of new research-based products, an AI-powered agricultural chatbot and awards recognising excellence in research, farming and innovation.
The main function was held at the university’s Karpoori Auditorium, with Governor-cum-Chancellor Lt Gen (Retd.) Syed Ata Hasnain and Agriculture Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha joining virtually. Rural Development and Information & Public Relations Minister Shravan Kumar, Bhagalpur MP Ajay Kumar Mandal, and Kahalgaon MLA Shubhanand Mukesh attended the ceremony in person.
The event began with the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp and the university anthem, followed by a welcome address by Vice-Chancellor Dr D.R. Singh.
Governor Praises University’s Contribution
Congratulating the university on its Foundation Day, Governor Syed Ata Hasnain said BAU had established itself as a leading institution in agricultural education and research.
He highlighted the university’s recent NAAC ‘A’ grade accreditation and its work in developing climate-resilient crop varieties, describing them as evidence of its strong academic and research culture.
He said Foundation Day should serve not only as an occasion to celebrate achievements but also as an opportunity to reflect on future responsibilities.
AI Chatbot And New Products Unveiled
During the programme, the Governor virtually launched several products developed through the university’s research initiatives, including:
- Blue Tea made from butterfly pea (Aparajita) flowers
- Jackfruit seed flour
- Honey Spoons
- “Agri-Granth”, an AI-powered agricultural chatbot
The launches formed part of the university’s efforts to promote value-added agricultural products and digital support for farmers.
Ministers Highlight Role Of Agricultural Innovation
Agriculture Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha said agricultural education, research and modern technology would play a vital role in increasing farmers’ incomes and making Bihar’s agriculture more self-reliant.
He said BAU had made significant contributions to farmer-oriented technologies, agricultural research and quality education over the past 16 years, adding that “prosperous farmers are the strongest foundation for a prosperous Bihar and a developed India.”
Rural Development Minister Shravan Kumar said the university’s achievements had exceeded expectations for an institution of its age, attributing its progress to sustained commitment and innovation.
Vice-Chancellor Calls For Greater Impact On Farmers
In his presidential address, Vice-Chancellor Dr D.R. Singh said the university’s success should not be measured solely by infrastructure or research publications.
Instead, he said its real achievements lay in improving farmers’ livelihoods, expanding opportunities for students, promoting innovation in villages and enhancing the value of local agricultural products.
He also paid tribute to the university’s former Chancellors and Vice-Chancellors for their contributions to strengthening academic programmes, research, extension services and farmer outreach.
The Vice-Chancellor also acknowledged the achievements of BAU’s alumni, saying they continued to enhance the university’s reputation through their work in India and abroad.
Researchers, Farmers And Startups Honoured
The Foundation Day celebrations concluded with awards recognising excellence across the university community.
Young researchers were honoured for their Four-Minute Research Presentations (4MRF), while faculty members received awards for outstanding research publications.
The university also recognised the Best Farmer and Best Startup for their contributions to agricultural innovation and rural development.
The programme was conducted by Uma Bharti, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Dr Chanda Kushwaha.
