Bhagalpur: Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, marked Agricultural Education Day on Tuesday, paying homage to India’s first President and Union Agriculture Minister, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, on his birth anniversary. The event, held at Gyan Bhawan, was presided over by Dr. Ajay Kumar Sah, Dean of Agriculture, and featured a host of dignitaries, including Dr. J. N. Srivastava, Dean of Student Welfare; Dr. S. K. Pathak, Dean (PGS); Dr. M. Haque, Registrar; and Dr. R. K. Suhane, Director of Extension Education.
The celebration highlighted the legacy of Dr. Rajendra Prasad, emphasizing his pivotal role in shaping India’s agricultural policies post-independence. Keynote speakers explored themes such as the importance of agricultural education, research, and innovation, alongside the need to inspire youth to engage with agriculture and agribusiness.
Honouring Dr. Rajendra Prasad’s Vision
Speakers reflected on Dr. Prasad’s vision for empowering rural communities through education and science, emphasizing his contributions to policy reforms that laid the foundation for modern agricultural practices. “His life and work symbolize the union of traditional values and modern aspirations in agriculture,” noted one speaker.
Promoting Agricultural Education and Research
The program underscored the need for research and technological advancements to address challenges like food security and climate change. It also spotlighted the critical role of institutions such as the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in fostering sustainable practices.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Saksham and Riya, students from the first semester of B.Sc. (Agriculture), delivered moving speeches on Dr. Prasad’s legacy. Saksham highlighted the President’s journey from humble beginnings to national leadership, lauding his dedication to education and rural development. Riya emphasized his visionary agricultural policies, urging students to adopt his discipline and devotion to duty. Their contributions were praised by attendees for embodying the values of a new generation committed to national progress.
A Call for Sustainable Development
In his address, Dr. Sah emphasized humanity, discipline, and hard work as the pillars of personal growth and a sustainable agricultural sector. “Today’s youth are the architects of tomorrow’s agriculture,” he said, urging students to tackle future challenges with determination and positivity.
The event also explored the evolution of formal agricultural education, bridging traditional knowledge with modern science to enhance productivity and sustainability.
Closing Remarks
Dr. Neha, in her vote of thanks, encouraged students to recognize the vast opportunities in agricultural education. She expressed optimism about the contributions the younger generation could make to societal development.
The program, conducted by Dr. Avinash with support from Dr. Neetu and Dr. Neha, concluded on a hopeful note, inspiring students to carry forward the legacy of Dr. Rajendra Prasad and contribute to a resilient agricultural future.
