News - CSK HPKV, Palampur

Palampur 28 December. The state level farm officers' workshop-cum-Farmer Scientist interface was held at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

The Chief Guest Shri Virender Kanwar, Minister of Agriculture, AH, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Govt of H.P, in his inaugural address, asked the farm scientists to develop integrated farming models giving complete economics so that the farmers may adopt such models as per their needs. He said that since the eighty percent seed was purchased from outside so there is need to produce seed of major crops within the state with involvement of progressive farmers. He said that efforts were underway to conserve and preserve seed of traditional crops under 'Mukhyamantri Prampragat Beej Sarankshan Yojna' and advised the farm officers to educate farmers about the proper use of chemicals and fertilizers as pesticide residue was highest in Himachal Pradesh. He said that farm chemicals should be only available at registered shops and the concerned person should be properly trained to stop excessive use of chemicals in the farmers� fields. He told that 25 years roadmap has been developed for natural farming. The Minister asked the scientists to suggest crops for mid hill areas of the state. He also sought solutions to the crop damage by wild animals and told that major problem of stray cattle will end by coming March as some cow sanctuaries will be functional soon. Shri Virender Kanwar also discussed issues like lantana and asked the university to submit a project for its complete eradication.

The Minister underlined the need to make Krishi Vigyan Kendras more vibrant to solve the problems of farmers as district level and asked the University to take its research work to the farms.

Prof Harinder Kumar Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, detailed major research and extension achievements of the University which has enabled several farmers to get national level awards in the recent past. He said that Krishi Vigyan Kendras have initiated work to produce seed of wheat and Mash (urd). He said that massive work has been imitated to conserve traditional seeds and get these registered. He told that 51 programmes have been envisaged to commemorate Golden Jubilee of H.P.Statehood and 51 Krishi Doots were also selected whose photographs have been displayed in 'Kisan Deergha.' He said special effort has been made to rejuvenate farm research in tribal areas and discussed issues like preparedness for adverse effects of climate change, vocal for local and high end research facilities in the University like phototron, Shiitake Mushroom Unit, etc.

Dr.N.K.Dhiman, Director of Agriculture, said that research work should be done to reduce cost of production and natural farming was a good alternative for it. As the mere increase of one percent temperature can reduce crop yields from five to ten percent so work on cropping patterns with low water requirements and temperature stress tolerant varieties should be expedited. He also discussed problems of insect pests in the major crops, need to develop package of practices for zone-wise fertilizers requirements.etc of

Dr.Satish Paul. Director of Extension Education, elaborated about major extension activities of the University like professional trainings to the farmers sponsored by Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam with an amount of Rs.79 lakh, adoption of seven villages under Farmers' First programme, etc. Dr.S.P.Dixit, Director of Research, informed that 136 research projects with budget outlay of Rs. 7982 lakh were in operation and new farm technology about compounding of tall fescue grass with white clover has been recommended for farmers.

Earlier, the Minister inaugurated Krishi Deergha-II in the University Museum and honored nineteen Krishi Doots and five national awardees who received awards for red rice variety conservation and breed conservation. These include Bachitar Singh, Sunil Kumar and Mangal Singh from district Bilaspur; Ameesh, Govind Singh, Avneet Kumar and Nandu Ram(district Kangra); Nishant Gazta (Solan); Pradeep Negi and Sudarshan Devi( Kinnaur), Madhu Kumari and Anita Negi (Kullu), Vividh Sharma and Vishal Pathak(Una), Taran Singh and Bhawani Dutt(Sirmour);Pramod Singh and Nimmo Devi(Hamirpur),Kundan Lal(Mandi), Maya Devi, Varsha Sharma, Depna Mehta, Leelavati and Sanita Devi( Shimla).The Minister also released a CD on redrice, farm publications and news year calander.

A session on major recommendations and feedback was also organized where progressive farmers and deputy directors from all districts provided feedback. Dr.Suresh Gautam, Dr.Desh Raj Chaudhary and Dr.Daisy Basandrai, Associate Director Extension Education also expressed her views.

Shri Ashok Sharma, Vice-Chairman, Gau Seva Ayog, the University statutory officers, heads and scientists and around 150 farm officers and progressive farmers took part in the workshop.

CSK H.P. Agriculture University helps Gaddi farmer to get the prestigious Breed Conservation Award

Palampur 16 December. Gaddi (Shepherd) Shri Nandu Ram, a resident of village Band Vihar, Tehsil Palampur, District Kangra will be receiving the prestigious national level 'Breed Conservation Award- 2021' on 23 December. This was disclosed by Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor told that the flock of Shri Nandu Ram was included in the 'All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Goat Improvement-Gaddi Field Unit project' in the University in the year 2011. The University helped him to increase his flock strength from 70 to over 400 goats and sheep. The project team of the University extended continuous scientific support in the form of supply of high genetically elite breeding bucks of Gaddi breed of goats along with timely vaccination against Foot and Mouth Disease and contagious PPR diseases, strategic nutritional interventions and health support as and when needed. There was remarkable progress in the flock in terms of the improved health status of animals, decreased mortality and production enhancement like body weight at different ages. Prof Chaudhary told that Shri Nandu Ram has been designated as 'KrishiDoot' of the University for his excellent work in breed conservation and propagation of Gaddi Goats. The University has motivated and helped the farmer in competing for this national level award.

The Vice-Chancellor told that as per the communication received by the University, Shri Nandu Ram will be awarded National Breed Conservation Award 2021 under individual category (small ruminants) for Gaddi goat breed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research(ICAR)-NBAGR (National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources), Karnal. The award will carry a cash prize of rupees ten thousand along with a certificate of achievement. The award will be conferred on 23 December during the "Kisan Divas and Breed Conservation Award" celebrations at Karnal. Breed Conservation Award has been initiated in 2017 by ICAR- NBAGR for conserving and maintaining the registered breeds of livestock and poultry. The farmer belongs to the Gaddi tribe of district Kangra in Himachal Pradesh. The farmer has a family of a total of 8 members and 20 Kanals of landholding. He has been in the practice of rearing goats by transhumance (migratory) practice since he was 10 years old and has 75 years of experience in this profession.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary visited the flock of Nandu Ram many times in the last one year. He has congratulated the farmer for his hard work and dedication. The Vice-Chancellor has also appreciated Dr. P.K. Dogra, Principal Investigator and his team members Drs. Nishant Verma, Ankaj Thakur, Madhu Suman, Praveen Sharma and other Scientific and Project Staff of AICRP.

CSKHPAU staff takes part in Mass Reading of Preamble to celebrate Constitution of India Day

Palampur 26 November. Prof Harinder Kumar Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University along with staff of his secretariat and all Statutory Officers and their staff took part in Mass Reading of Preamble of Constitution of India along with Hon'ble President of India through live streaming today. Later, the Vice-Chancellor said that all staff members and the students must have unflinching loyalty towards the Constitution of our beloved country. All should read the provisions of it and educate others about the sanctity of the Constitution of India.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU interacts with Spiti valley farmers

Palampur 9 November. CSK H.P.Agriculture University organised a field day on potential crops and farmer-scientist interaction at its Regional Research Sub Station, Lari in Spiti valley in Lahaul & Spiti district today.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor alongwith University scientists interacted with around 200 farmers from the Gue, Hurling, Tabo and Lari villages in the valley and listened to their farm based problems. He said that the University has decided to develop this region as Golden valley and initiate work on traditional medicinal crops of the area like Ratanjot, high value products like Shilajeet and asked them to grow potential crops like amaranths, ogla, phafra, hull less barley, etc. He said that the University will extend them all support to increase their farm income. The Vice-Chancellor declared that Dr.N.D.Negi, presently working at the main campus will be scientist incharge of two research sub-stations Lari and Leo and directed him to organize trainings to the farmers and provide them with improved plant material.

Padma Dorje, Pardhan, Gue; Thothal Dorje, Pardhan, Tabo and Subodh Norbu, Pardhan, Mahila Mandal also spoke on the occasion and thanked the Vice-Chancellor for the efforts to revive farm activity at the research station. Dr(Mrs.) Parveen Lata Chaudhary,first lady of the university, was also present on the occasion.

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor visited Research Sub-station Leo(Kinnaur) and told the local farming community that a decision has been taken to develop the farm at Station as model farm to produce seed of millets, barley, buckwheat, rajmash, French bean, peas and other traditional crops of the region like ogla, fafra, etc. He also directed the scientists to plant saplings of apricot and almond and get the quality planting material from J&K. He assured local farmers to make available quality seed and planting material for their orchards. Smt. Parma Dorje Negi, Panchayat Pradhan welcomed the Vice-Chancellor and other statutory officers and scientists from the University.

Dr S.P.Dixit, Director of Research; Dr Satish Paul, Director of Extension Education, Dr Mandeep Sharma, Dean, Dr GC Negi COVAS, Dr Desh Raj Chaudhary, Head, Deptt of Vegetable Crops; Dr.Suman Kumar, Programme Coordinator, Krishi Vigyan Kenda, Berthin and other scientists also interacted and addressed the farmers.

CSKHPAU helps Red Rice Farmers of Rohru to get Rs.10 lakh Plant Genome Savior Award

Palampur 8 November. Red rice farmers of Rohru (Shimla) will be receiving prestigious Plant Genome Savior Award worth Rs.10 lakh soon. This was disclosed by Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.The Vice-Chancellor told that the university scientists gathered all the scientific data and helped the red rice growing farmers to register traditional red rice variety Chhohartu with Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Authority (PPVFRA), Govt. of India eight years back. On his directions, the university scientists in the last one year helped the farmers to pursue the matter again with renewed efforts of conservation, development, popularization and further spread of red rice resulting in bringing laurels to the State. The university helped red rice growing farmers to form a society as the award is given to farmers' society only. Prof Chaudhary told that Chairperson of PPVFRA has confirmed in his letter to the University that the award carrying a cash prize of Rs. 10 lakh, citation and memento will be presented to red rice farmers society on 11 November by the Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers� Welfare. This is India's highest Award for the farmers in recognition of their contribution in conserving and development of plant varieties.Prof Chaudhary said that red rice is under cultivation in an area of about 1000 hectare in different villages like Peja, Masli, Jangla, Daboli, Kaloti of Chhohara valley in Rohru subdivision in Shimla district. It is cultivated on both sides of Pabbar river adapted to cultivation from 1300 meter to 2100 meter and is categorized under Japonica red rice. Chhohartu has red pericarp (outer layer) and it fetches premium price in the market and has set an excellent example of vocal for local. The Vice-Chancellor also appreciated the efforts of his University scientists Dr. Ajai Srivastava and his team including retired plant breeder Dr. R.P. Kaushik for their consistent efforts in the last one year helping the farmers with relevant scientific data and other formalities for the award. He said that since centuries the paddy of this variety is served during community lunches and 'yajnas.' The excess water of thick consistency decanted after cooking of red rice is considered healthy for pregnant ladies. It is gifted on various occasions too. A couple of years back the University scientists had helped farmers of Bhedal panchayat in Chamba district for Plant Genome Savior Community Award 2019 for conserving land races of maize Haachi (white), Retti (red) and chitkuri (popcorn).Prof Chaudhary said that his University has decided to register at least 51 Himalayan Agri-Horticulture and livestock products and commodities during this Golden Jubilee Year of H.P. Statehood. Already a Geographical Indicators task force has been formed for the purpose under his chairmanship and an application for GI registration of red rice has been filed with GI registration authority.

Palampur 7 November. CSK H.P.Agriculture University organised a field day on potential crops and farmer-scientist interaction at its Regional Research Station, Sangla in Kinnaur district today. The Chief Guest Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor while addressing around 150 farmers and farm ladies from the valley, suggested them to grow Kala Zeera as intercrop in apple orchards and saffron as a sole crop .He said that it will increase their income and the university will provide them improved plant material, technical guidance and training.He appreciated them for their hardwok and assured them all technical support for growing exotic vegetables like brocolli, lettuce, red cabbage, off season vegetables , improved fodder like fescue grass, red clover and improving animal production with quality breeds and feed.He said the crops of this tribal region like Rajmash have unique qualities like taste, aroma, digestibility etc and farmers must conserve, propagate and popularise such crops of this beautiful valley.He directed scientists to develop a calender on apple spray schedule and make it available to the growers.He said that the university farm will be developed as a model farm and the station will be strengthened with scientific and technical manpower in the near future. Earlier, Vice-Chancellor inspected the station and directed scientists to introduce intercroppping of kalazira in apple orchard at the station.Dr S.P.Dixit,Director of Research;Dr Satish Paul, Director of Extension Education,Dr Mandeep Sharma, Dean,Dr GC Negi COVAS, Dr Desh Raj Chaudhary,Head, Deptt of Vegetable Crops; Dr V.K.Sood,Head, Deptt of Genetics and Plant Breeding and other scientists also interacted and addressed the farmers.Sh Pardeep Negi,Pardhan, Gram Panchayat Batseri and Smt Karuna Negi, Pardhan,Mahila Mandal, Kamru thanked the Vice-Chancellor and university for taking efforts to revive potential crops in the region.Dr(Mrs.) Parveen Lata Chaudhary, the first lady of the university, was also present on the occasion.

Palampur 2 November. The very first meeting of the 6th Deans' Committee constituted by Indian Council of Agricultural Research was held at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today. Dr. Tej Partap, Vice- Chancellor, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar chaired the meeting attended by Vice-Chancellors and Deans of all five farm varsities of H.P., J & K and Uttrakhand.

Dr Partap told that fundamental changes have been proposed in the National Education Policy (NEP) but ICAR has left it to farm varsities to restructure new course and curriculum. He said that effort should be to increase practical and practices in under graduate programmes. Post Graduate courses will be restructured in a step wise manner. He told that farm varsities should structure one year certificate courses leading to two years diploma course. Currently, agriculture admissions are not as per the need and are not able to serve the purpose as many students are not going to farm sectors. There is need to frame guidelines for entrepreneurship for students having innovation and salable technology. He underlined the need to frame guidelines to increase students� enrolment ratio and identifying individual capabilities of each student and giving freedom to excel. The will of students will prevail as one can enter and exit at any stage in any academic programme following admission procedures. He said that efforts will be made to improve the financial health of farm universities giving them institutional autonomy to select Vice-Chancellors and its members. The chairman disclosed that other key changes recommended in NEP indicate that the country will move towards multidisciplinary universities. There will not be further division of universities and by 2035; universities with multiple campus will merge. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor of host university suggested widening the horizon of farm education by allowing freedom to choose subjects, multidisciplinary approach and introducing farm education in schools. He told that his University has moved fast to adopt and implement key recommendations of NEP. Increased intake in various UG and PG programmes, digitization, smart class rooms, use of sophisticated new age technology and facilities like phototron to grow crops year around, high tech poly houses, etc were all part of this process. The university will recruit professionals who can use local knowledge, traditional knowledge and technology to effectively develop useful human resources. Dr J.P.Sharma, Vice-Chancellor, SK University of Agricultural Science & Technology, Jammu suggested specialized tailor made certificate and diploma courses based on the competence of students after completing of three years degree programme. All members emphasized that effort should be to provide and enhance the skills of children of farm families by not having any formal class in certificate courses. The students without farm background also need skill components in the initial years of agriculture education. Admission may be made in such a way that farmers may get an opportunity to send their children to farm professional courses. Dr.J.P.Sharma, Director of Research, Dr Bikram Singh and Dr.M.S.Bhadwal, Deans from SKUAST, Jammu; Dr.(Mrs.) Anju Dhiman and Dr.Kamal Sharma, both Deans from Dr. Y.S.Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Solan; Dr Y.S.Dhaliwal, Dr Suresh Kumar and Dr.Anita Singh, all Deans and other statutory officers from the host University and other members took part in deliberations.

CSKHPAU to recruit staff and use new digital technology: Vice-Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhary

Palampur 1 November. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University celebrated its 44^th foundation day, here today.

While chairing the function Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, said that the University will be recruiting staff and using new age digital technology for serving the farmers effectively. He said that the University was facing staff crunch and with the implementation of National Education Policy (NEP), challenges were many. "Besides recruiting forty teachers, all teaching and non teaching staff will be recruited in all India coordinated research projects soon. The University has initiated steps to involve Ph.D scholars and research associates in academic programmes with remuneration", told Prof Chaudhary. He told that around 200 research projects worth Rs. 212 crore have been submitted to the funding agencies.

The Vice-Chancellor informed that sixty percent of the rooftop area at the campus has been covered under solar system, work is underway for e-office, clean and green campus and the students� centre with complete facilities will be made functional soon. He said that around twenty Memorandum of Understandings have been signed and several international collaborations, foreign visits to make scientists globally competent, awards for young scientists, etc were the important decisions taken by the University.

The Vice-Chancellor disclosed that to mark the Golden Jubilee of H.P. Statehood, the University has envisaged 51 programmes. In the next one year, a conference of 75 agricultural ambassadors (Krishi Doots) will be held, a state level farm women fair, etc were other programmes envisaged. He said that scientists will accelerate work on crop diversification, integrated farming, getting Geographical Indicators for traditional Himalayan crops and enhance research on rich animal genetic resources in tribal areas. He told that his university was doing work on artificial insemination with sexed semen to produce only female calves. It will help to reduce the problem of stray cattle in H.P.

He also discussed issues like involving young farmers with Startup programmes for developing entrepreneurship, Farmers' Produce Organizations, precisions agriculture, artificial intelligence in farming, university services for the retired staff, etc. He also pledged to take forward the University and sought cooperation of all to make it number one in all farm universities of the country and getting it an international status.

Chief Guest Dr Tej Partap, Vice-Chancellor, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Uttrakhand, said that dedication of all was a must to develop the institutions. He elaborated the need and main elements of NEP. "The country has expanded exponentially in terms of students and institutions but the quality of education has suffered. There are plenty of jobs but not competent human resources. The ones concerned about percentage, placements and package will not be salable in future. Pre-job life, safe job life and post-job life will be a new scenario. All concerned will have to re-invent themselves with trainings" said Dr Partap. He said that social, economic and technological changes are taking place at a faster pace. The students are to be prepared for new kind of challenges with critical thinking, communication skills and creativity. All farm universities will be multidisciplinary with minimum 3000 students. NEP will allow flexibility to students. He suggested strategic thinking to change the economy of the state. He elaborated about research challenges also. He presented a book on students� counselling to Prof H.K.Chaudhary.

Dr.Mandeep Sharma, Dean, Dr. GC Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences; Dr.D.K.Vatsa, Director of Research and Dr.S.K.Upadhyay also expressed his views. Shri Suresh Chaudhary, Retired Session Judge, Statutory Officers, staff, students and some retired staff members also participate in the celebrations.

CSK H.P. Agriculture University and SJVN Foundation sign MOU to train 1000 farmers:

Palampur 26 October. CSK H.P. Agriculture University and Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam(SJVN) Foundation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today to train one thousand farmers of Himachal Pradesh.

During MOU signing ceremony, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor said skill development programmes through trainings and demonstrations to the young aspiring farmers and entrepreneurs of Himachal Pradesh will help them in a variety of income generating professional activities. He said this will enable farmers to learn integrated agriculture and some of them may even adopt start up programmes in agri- entrepreneurship. This year 40 groups of 25 farmers each will be trained by the University at Directorate of Extension Education and the University Krishi Vigyan Kendras. A sum of Rs 78.13 lakh will be provided by SJVN foundation for theses trainings.

Prof Chaudhary appreciated SJVN for its endeavors for the upliftment of farmers and livestock keepers under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The university had been signing MOU with SJVN Foundation since the year 2016 and more than 3000 farmers were trained on various aspects related to agriculture.

Dr Madhumeet Singh, Director of Extension Education, told that all forty trainings will be conducted by the University experts where farmers will be trained and skill development would be under the areas of agriculture, floriculture, vegetable cultivation, mushroom production , bee-keeping, medicinal and aromatic plants, nursery production, dairy farming, poly-house cultivation, plant protection, organic agriculture, start up agri-prenureship and environment impact assessment.

Smt. Seema Kumar , Additional General Manager, SJVN , informed that MOU has been signed under Deen Dayal Upadhyay SJVN Krishi Kaushal Vikas Yojana for Skill development programme through trainings and demonstrations to the young aspiring entrepreneurs and farmers of Himachal Pradesh under CSR initiative of SJVN Foundation for the year 2021-22. Each trainee will be given a stipend of Rs 1400 and the programme will be completed in this very financial year.

In addition to the University Statutory Officers, Drs V.K.Sharma, Desh Raj Chaudhary, Lav Bhushan and Hirday Paul Singh, Jt. Director (Information & Public Relations) were present during the programme.

Progresive farmers of Lahaul valley: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor. CSKHPAU

Palampur 18 October. A scientific advisory committee (SAC) meeting of CSK H.P. Agriculture University Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) was held at Kukumseri in district Lahaul & Spiti today.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, chaired the meeting and appreciated the hardworking farmers of Lahaul & Spiti. He said that zeal of farmers to imbibe new technology and risk bearing capacity was worth appreciating. "They know the pulse of marketing and have been supplying exotic vegetables to metropolis successfully", said Vice-Chancellor. Prof Chaudhary said that plans were afoot to strengthnen extension and research activities at Univeristy Research Station and KVK situated at Kukumseri. He also underlined the importance of conservation and presevatiomn of local plant and animal gentic resources. He recalled his prolonged stay in Lahaul in the beginning of his career which enbled him to develop some signitficant varieties like Saptdhara of winter wheat, Triloki Rajmsh of Rajmash and Uday of buckwheat, etc.

The Vice-Chancellor also chaired a farmer-scientist interaction programme and asked the farmers to expoore the possibility of fiseheires, mushroom cultivation, producing medicinal honey, etc. He sought their feedback on several issues including climate change, value addition, etc.

Dr.Madhumeet Singh, Director of Extension Education asked the farmers to disucss their farm related issues with the extension specialists to resolve these on priority. Dr. Surinder Kumar Thakur, Programme Coordinator, KVK presented a report of the work done and future programmes.

Dr.D.K.Vatsa, Director of Research, Dr.Mandeep Sharma, Dean, College of Veterinay & Animal Science Dr.Vinod Sharma, Associate Director of Univeristy Research Station at Kukumseri and some scientists from the main campus Palampur also interacted with the farmers and provided them relevent scientific information about agriculture, animal husbandry, etc. A question-answer session was also held. Despite inclement weather, around 200 progressive farmers and district level officers took part in farmer-scientist interaction enthusiastically.

CSK H.P .Agriculture University begins tea plantations in non-traditional areas

Palampur 14 October. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University has initiated a new drive to extend tea-related research and development activities to the non-traditional areas of Himachal Pradesh.

Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor told that fresh tea plantations have been done at the Research Stations and Krishi Vigyan Kendras of the University at Malan, Kangra, Bara, Berthin, Sundernagar, Bajaura and Dhaulakuan situated in different districts with the objective of creating live windows and demonstration-cum-exhibition plots. He said that this will create awareness and interest of the visitors and farmers to these stations. He expressed the hope that the new initiative taken up for the first time will generate information about the impact of climate change on tea cultivation vis-a-vis the scope of extension of tea cultivation in other non-traditional parts of the state situated in Kangra, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Mandi, Kullu and Sirmour districts. In the first leg, 800 new tea plants have been planted.

It is a follow-up of the meeting of the Vice-Chancellor with officers of Tea Board-India, State Tea wing and the University scientists for general awareness on 'heritage Kangra tea', an identified produce under the export policy. The Vice-Chancellor said that the University was also exploring the possibility of orchard integration of tea for doubling farmers' income and offsetting area loss. This campaign has been launched by the Department of Tea Husbandry and Technology of the University in collaboration with the Tea Board of India Zonal Office, Palampur.

Palampur 12 October.CSK H.P. Agriculture University and Nestle India Ltd. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for a project "Nestle Healthy Kids- Increasing awareness on nutrition and health amongst school children."

Prof H.K.Chaudhry, Vice-Chancellor told this project will enable in imparting nutrition and health education to school children of Himachal Pradesh. During the current year, the project will be implemented in six schools covering around 1000 school children and gradually more schools will be covered under this project. The Vice Chancellor appreciated the efforts of Dr.Anupama Sandal and Dr Rajni Modgil, Principal Investigators and their team. He told that this project is running in the University since 2013 in which 6000 school children have been made aware of the good nutrition and healthy life.

MoU was signed by Dr D.K. Vatsa, Director of Research of the University and Mr Harpratap Singh Sidhu, Corporate Manager, Nestle India Ltd, Tahilwal unit (Una) in the presence of Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor and Dr YS Dhaliwal, Dean, College of Community Science.

Palampur 8 October. A high level review meeting of Expert Group for Agriculture under the Chairmanship of Prof Ramesh Chand, Member, NITI Aayog, Govt of India, was held at CSK H.P.Agricultre University, here today. The expert group has been constituted by Govt. of H.P. to prepare an ambitious plan for agriculture sector for the state. While addressing members and others, Shri Ramesh Chand said that candid approach to all issues is always fruitful. He said the expert group will work hard to brighten the future of farmers in the State. Prof Ramesh Chand said that harmonious working in the state was encouraging. He said that the farm institutions have fascinating things but all these were not reaching to all farmers. The skill of marketing was missing and scientists need to enhance it for transfer of relevant technology. Prof Ramesh Chand spoke on sustainability and environment issues while pursuing research work. He said it was important for our future. He said that on consumer side, India will see clear divide on food front as some elite people will look for appearance, taste, etc whereas a large class will be looking for available food. So the scientist will be required to work for masses and elite classes too. But attention should be focused on increasing the income of farmers. He said that some constraints are characteristics and scientists should learn to deal with it. "Look for opportunities", he advised. Prof Ramesh Chand said that GIs on crops should be commercialized and varietal improvement should continue. Prof Ramesh Chand said that GIs on crops should be commercialized and varietal improvement should continue. He appreciated Vice-Chancellor Prof. Chaudhary for making positive difference in the University functioning. He said that the university has rich legacy and expressed the hope that it will attain great heights.

Dr.S.K.Malhotra, Commissioner Agriculture and Horticulture, Govt of India, said that matter for worry is that land under fallow is increasing. He discussed issue of absentee farmers and suggested that there should be concrete plan to motivate such farmers. He said that bio fertilizers should be promoted. He said micro irrigation area and nutrient use efficiency should be increased. He advised micro level planning and said that micro irrigation area and nutrient use efficiency should be increased. He also said that diversification is required. He discussed incentives and awards, branding and labelling of products, beekeeping, natural farming, etc Dr Ajay Kumar Sharma, IAS, Secretary Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Horticulture told that during the budget speech of Chief Minister in the current year, the formation of expert group was announced. He thanked Shri Ramesh Chand for agreeing to head the expert group. He told that some sub groups have been assigned specific work. He expressed the hope that results will be encouraging. As a member of this expert group, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, said that the University has worked on current approaches and future strategies for doubling the income of farmers. He said that availability of quality seed, feed and breed at the doorstep of farmers can help them in a big way. Dr R.K.Pruthi, IAS, Director of Agriculture and Horticulture, H.P., who is Member Secretary of the expert group also expressed his views. Some presentations were made on on major constraints and agro diversity in H.P., current approaches for doubling the income of farmers, strategy to address the concerns of small and marginal farmers through natural farming, etc. Sh Naresh Thakur, MD.H.P. Agriculture Marketing Board, Dr Pardeep Sharma, Director Animal Husbandry, H.P., Sh Satpal Mehta, Director Fisheries, H.P., University, Dr Rajeshwar Chandel, Executive Director PKKKY, University Statutory Officers, scientists and officers from the University and Departments of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Horticulutre also took part in the meeting. Some experts including Dr. Shiva Kumar, Head Agriculture, ITC attended the meeting through virtual mode.

CSK H.P. Agriculture University and Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute sign MOU

Palampur 27 September. CSK H.P. Agriculture University and Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute (IGFRI), Jhansi have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for Teaching, Research and Technology Dissemination.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor told that his University and IGFRI, a premier institute of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), have thoroughly discussed fields of common research interests and allied activities between the two institutions. As per the MOU, both institutions will have long-term collaboration for the promotion of students' teaching and quality research in cutting edge areas in accordance with the provisions contained in the ICAR Guidelines. This will facilitate joint participation in the Teaching, Research and Technology Dissemination. Prof Chaudhary said that the University will provide office space for the scientists working at IGFRI Regional Research Station, Palampur till it creates its own infrastructure. The IGFRI regional station will facilitate conducting research related to the thesis requirement of the University research students for M.Sc. and Ph.D degree programmes. IGFRI scientists will be associated in teaching and guidance or research of the University students. Both institutions will make joint efforts for the dissemination and transfer of technologies related to fodder production, conservation, utilization and grassland management to the farmers and other agencies. There are details about Intellectual Property Rights, admissions, fees, etc also in the MOU.

The MOU was signed by Dr Amaresh Chandra, Director, IGFRI and Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor.

Meeting on Intensification and sustenance of pulses in North Hill Zone of India at CSKHPAU

A pulse revolution underway in India: Dr.T.R.Sharma, Deputy Director-General, ICAR

Palampur 24 September. A brainstorming meeting on 'Intensification and Sustenance of Pulses in North Hill Zone of India' was held at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

The Chief Guest Dr T.R.Sharma, Deputy Director-General, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), while inaugurating the meeting, said that pulse revolution in the country was underway as this year the production has touched 25 million tons. He asked scientists to intensify work on developing pulses with high protein content, having traits like short duration and climate-resilient. "As taking care of crop production and crop protection measures can being five per cent jump in the crop yields so the profile of each pulse crop should be developed", suggested Dr Sharma. He also spoke on the importance of developing research centre specific programmes and told that project monitoring and advisory committees system have been streamlined at the ICAR level. Similarly, the working of All India Coordinated Research Projects has been smoothed and strengthened. Dr Sharma told that 71 bio-fortified crop verities have been developed and 35 climate-resilient crop varieties have been dedicated to the nation. He suggested using new communication technology in preparing programmes and linkages with clear output and societal impact objectives.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, said that inputs like quality seed, breed and feed at the doorsteps of farmers and facilities like storage, post-harvest processing and assured marketing were a must to enhance productivity and income of the farmers. He suggested strong multi-disciplinary inter and intra institution collaborations and linkages. He said that all institutes must have genetic resource network involving their research centres. He suggested free sharing of germplasm among institutes for the common good of all. Prof Chaudhary said that genetic resources of Himalayas should be brought to the public domain like branded pulses due to their peculiar taste, digestibility and quality. He promised to extend his University resources to other institutes for research work. . He said that major and minor crops should be given importance in research as per the need of the region. He said that he had collected 368 lines of Rajmash across the Himalayas and a popular variety Triloki Rajmash was released. He thanked ICAR for holding central varieties release committee meetings frequently.

Dr.S.K.Sharma, Chairman, Quinquennial Review Team on Pulses, observed that due to shortage of resources and manpower in farm universities and other research institutes, pulses should be prioritized state wise like Rajmash and Urdbean for J&K and H.P. and Urd bean and lentil for Uttrakhand.

Dr.N.P.Singh, Director, Indian Institute of Pulses Research, Kanpur elaborated about the challenges and opportunities in pulses research and development in Himalayan hills. He advocated increasing crop intensification for higher yields. Dr. Amrish Chandra, Director, Indian Grassland and Fodder Institute, Jhansi; Dr.Shiv Sewak, Project Coordinator, Pulses; Dr Sanjeev Gupta Assistant Director-General, ICAR, etc. also spoke in the subject. Presentation by research organizations from Kashmir, Jammu, Berthin, Shimla, Pantnagar, Tripura and Meghalaya were made by scientists. Dr.Aditya Partap, Organizing Secretary of the meeting, told that it was a hybrid meeting where besides scientists at Palampur, 80 other scientists from Northern hill states, northeastern states of the country and some foreign institutes joined online.

The Chief Guest released a booklet on Intellectual Property Act Policy Guidelines authored by Drs H.K.Chaudhary, Daizy Basandrai and Virender Kumar. All statutory officers, some progressive farmers, scientists and officers from the University and ICAR institutes also attended the meeting.

CSKHPAU honours Dr T.R.Sharma, Deputy Director General, Indian Council of Agricultural Research

Palampur 24 September. An alumnus of CSK H.P. Agriculture University Dr T.R.Sharma, Deputy Director-General, Indian Council of Agricultural Research was honored here today.Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, while presenting a scroll of honour, shawl and Himachali cap to Dr.T.R.Sharma said that the University was proud of his immense contribution to Indian agriculture and felt elated to honor a star alumnus. He is credited for founding several high-tech farm institutes in the country besides developing some promising crop varieties. A student of PhD. Plant Pathology in 1990 batch at the University, Dr Sharma is a recipient of several awards beginning with Young Scientist Award to prestigious Rafi Ahmad Kidwai Award, etc. He is a fellow of all four national science and agriculture academies. He has guided 25 Ph.D students and written 180 research papers. Prof Chaudhary said that Dr Sharma has brought laurels to Himachal Pradesh and the University.Dr T.R.Sharma, expressed his gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor and the University for the honour. He said that his recognition was the collective effort of his students and colleagues. It will act as a stimulant for his future endeavors. He asked the scientists and students at Palampur not to think that they are sitting in a remote area but consider constraints as opportunities and work hard consistently for the useful breakthroughs in farming. He also remembered his guide and mentor Dr.B.M.Singh, former Dean, College of Agriculture. He congratulated the Vice-Chancellor for keeping an excellent academic atmosphere in the University and bringing a sea change in the environment and creating quality infrastructure for the staff, students and farmers. All the University Statutory Officers, some officers from ICAR and Dr.Madhu Sharma, wife of Dr.T.R.Sharma were present during the honour ceremony.

Programme to mark the Birthday of Hon'ble PM and Poshan Abhiyan evam Vriksharopan at CSKHPAU

Ladies need healthy and nutritious diet comprising millets: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU

Palampur 17 September. To commemorate the birthday of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and as a curtain raiser to the 'International year of millets 2023', a daylong programme on National campaign on 'Poshan Abhiyan evam Vrikshropan" was organized at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

While chairing the programme, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor extended greetings on behalf of the whole University community to the Hon'ble Prime Minister. He said that farm ladies sacrifice their all comforts for their family and they should be educated about the importance of healthy and nutritious diet.

He said that ladies play predominant role in hill agriculture and the University has decided to organise 'Mahila Krishak Mela' in the near future where ladies, self help group members, public representatives, etc will be invited from all over the state. He also spoke on the importance of millets, commonly known as 'Motta Annaj' and said that traditional millet crops like amaranthus (Seul), buckwheat(bhares), Bathua, kodra, kangni, bhares, etc. should be made an essential part of our diet as theses were rich in nutrients and vitamins like iron, zinc, magnesium, potassium. etc.

Prof Chaudhary saluted ladies for their work efficiency and dedication to family and the society and exhorted male members of the family to take care of their female family members. He said that to give due importance to this special day, the University decided to invite public representative Smt.Monika Sharma Councillor, Municipal Corporation, Palampur as Chief Guest. The Chief Guest Smt Monika Sharma, in her address also underlined the importance of millets which were easy to grow and use. The Vice-Chancellor and Smt. Monika Sharma also distributed 150 fruit and other medicinal plants to all the participants.

Dr.Madhumeet Singh, Director of Extension Education also highlighted the role of nutri-cereals in human health. Dean of Community Science College Dr.Y.S.Dhaliwal and Head of Horticulture Department Dr S.K.Upadhyay delivered special lectures. Dr. Janardan Singh, Head of Organic Agriculture and Natural Farming-cum-Coordinator informed that the programme was jointly organized by his department in collaboration with the Directorate of Extension Education. Drs. Daizy Basandrai, Gopal Katna and Rakesh Kumar also addressed around 150 farm ladies from different villages surrounding Palampur and the university students.

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor and participants attended through virtual mode a programme, "Nutri-cereals multi-stakeholders and mega convention and Poshan Vatika and tree plantation campaign event for the international year of millets 2023 addressed by the Union Minister of Farmers' Welfare and other dignitaries. KVKs also attended the programme.

Historical Bee Research Station of CSKHPAU to be upgraded to Bee Heritage Farm

Palampur 13 September. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University has decided to upgrade its historical Bee Research Station at Nagrota Bagwan to a Bee Heritage Farm of India. The University has submitted a mega project worth Rs. 6.20 crore to the Indian Council of Agricultural Research for this purpose and is hopeful that it will be sanctioned soon so that work is initiated in the Golden Jubilee year of H.P. Statehood.

Disclosing this, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor informed that this station was established in 1936 under Department of Agriculture, Punjab. It an important station for the information and technical knowhow for beekeeping and is pioneer for introducing exotic Apis Mellifera bee, commonly known as European Honey bee, in the country in 1964. Prof. H. K. Chaudhary believes that this heritage farm will be a role model for beekeeping in the country and will be equipped with all modern research and teaching facilities for the benefit of beekeepers from north-western Himalaya and other parts of India.

The Vice-Chancellor informed that scientists learnt about European honey bee species Apis mellifera which produce 5-10 times more honey as compared to our indigenous bee A. cerana and started import efforts and were successful in establishing this exotic bee in country in 1964 by Dr. A.S. Atwal and Sh. O.P. Sharma at this Station. They used inter-specific queen introduction technique which involved introduction of A. mellifera mated queens imported from various continents in de-queened colonies of A. cerana. This is the landmark contribution of this station and paved the way for scientific rearing of bees and making beekeeping a profitable venture in the country as several colonies were supplied by this station throughout the country. In 1986, the station also supplied A.melilifera colonies to Bhutan. The management techniques were standardized, colonies were multiplied and distributed to different agencies from 1975-1986.

At present, Himachal Pradesh has more than 84000 colonies of this exotic bee with annual production of 800-1200 MT of honey. At national level, about 3.5 million colonies of exotic and indigenous bees are maintained in traditional and modern bee hives producing over 120 thousand MT of honey with an export of 61.4 thousand tonnes worth Rs. 1.25 thousand crore. Migratory beekeeping during the year 1983 was vision and effort of the University that India witnessed amber revolution or honey kranti during 1990. Besides producing honey, honey bees are excellent pollinators, and pollination of crops by honeybees is most effective and cheapest method of increasing crop yields.

To achieve the mission of doubling farmers; income by 2022, beekeeping holds considerable potential to meet the set targets. Prof Chaudhary says that the diverse flora in north-western Himalaya yields high valued unifloral and multifloral honey and provides ample opportunities in creating self-employment among educated youth.

"Serve the society selflessly"; Vice-Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhary exhorts the students

Palampur 9 September. A seven days NSS camp concluded at the College of Basic Sciences at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

While distributing certificates to 43 NSS volunteers, Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, appreciated the good work by the volunteers and asked each one of them to serve the society with utmost devotion selflessly throughout life.

Prof Chaudhary said that NSS and NCC help the students to learn serving the nation and feel proud for their contributions, whatever small these may be. He said that all should make cleaning the home and surrounding an essential part of their routine. He asked the volunteers to help the village youngsters and others to keep their villages neat and clean. He said that a joint camp of all constituent colleges should be help to make any village a model. He said that a good beginning can be made from the campus which has more than 125 species of birds. "NSS should not be restricted to cleaning activity only", advised Prof Chaudhary and asked the volunteers to think and work differently from the crowd and make their mark on the society. He asked them to identify different species of flora and fauna at the campus and publish a research paper on it.

Dr.V.K.Gupta, Students' Welfare Officer, told that most of the hostels were closed due to the prevailing situation and the volunteers have done measurable cleaning work in such areas. Dr.Anita Singh, Dean, COBS told that the camp was held at the initiative of the Vice-Chancellor as due to pandemic the college was seeking exemption to hold the camp which was turned down.

NSS programme officer Mr Kapil Sharma told that during the camp, the volunteers thoroughly cleaned the college premises and surroundings and also assisted in community activities.

The students welcomed the Vice-Chancellor and others with NSS song. They conducted the stage too. NSS volunteers Ms Aditi Bhuria and Shaveta also expressed their views.

Palampur 9 September. CSK H.P. Agriculture University has recently submitted application for GI(Geographical Indication) registration of Japonica Red Rice of the state to the Geographical Indications Registry Office, Chennai.

This was disclosed by Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor. He said that the University was also working on three projects on the aspect of GI tagging of Red Rice of the state, Karsog Kulthi and Chamba Chukh. He has directed the scientists to file at least fifty GI registration applications in this Golden Jubilee of H.P. Statehood. After getting GI, the farmers get national and international recognition for that particular crop or commodity which helps them to get highly remunerative price benefitting them financially.

Elaborating on red rice, he told that one of the many treasures of Himachal Pradesh is its red rice varieties. These include Chhohartu from Shimla district; Sukara, Jhinjan and Karad from Chamba district; Jattu, Deval and Matali from Kullu district; and Desi Dhan, Kalizhini, Achhoo, and Begmi from Kangra district grown in different parts of the state at different altitudes since times immemorial. Red kernelled rices command higher price, nutritionally superior, rich in iron and zinc and numerous trace elements and vitamins and in addition have high anti-oxidant properties. These red rice varieties belong to both indica and japonica sub-species. Prof H.K.Chaudhary told that unlike red rices of Kerala and other states, the red rices of H.P are adapted to cooler climates. In view of this, the University is making efforts to get GI for Japonica Red Rices adapted to areas above 1000m amsl in the State. In addition of being nutritive and having medicinal value, red rices possess many other special features. Red rice is also an important part of all religious ceremonies in Himachal Pradesh. Chhohartu, a farmers' red rice variety grown in Chhohara Valley, Rohru (Shimla) is a part of cultural heritage of the area. Since times immemorial the paddy of this variety is gifted under different names on various occasions like marriages, religious ceremonies, child birth etc. The rice of this variety is served during community lunches and yajnas. The Pichh, excess water of thick consistency decanted after cooking of rice, of this red rice is considered very useful for pregnant ladies and children. Red rice is also used for making beverages in many areas of the state.

According to Prof H.K.Chaudhary his University has maintained more than 30 land races of red rice collected from different parts of the State. The University has released two improved varieties of red rice viz; HPR 2720 (Palam Lal Dhan 1) and HPR 2795(Him Palam Lal Dhan 1) with high iron and zinc content besides having tolerance to major diseases and pests. Prof. Chaudhary told that the University has got the 'Chhoartu Lal Dhan' land race from Rohru registered from Protection of Plant Varieties & Farmers Rights Authority at the national level.

The University has constituted task forces for GI registration of different crops, animal genetic resources and commodities of Himachal Pradesh like Red Rice, Basmati Rice, Rajmash (from Chamba, Bharmour, Barot, Kinnaur , Lahaul & Spiti and Seraj Areas ), Kulthi ( from Karsog, Nurpur, Sirmour and Shimla), Mash (from Chamba, Berthin and Sirmour ), White Honey, Ginger, Zimikand, Nadauni Mooli, Cucumber, Ghandiali, Foxtail Orchid (Rhynchostylis retusa), Gaddi dog, Spiti Pony, Tissa pony and pashmina , chigu goat, Poultry (Red Jungle Fowl), Products and Goods prepared by the college of Community Home Science, Pattu and Dohroo, Seabuckthorn, Kinnauri Chulli and Mori,etc. The Vice-Chancellor himself is chairman of a task force to get GI for Rajmash.

Palampur 6 September. The Teachers' Day was celebrated at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

While presiding over the function, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, said the former President of India Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the great teacher and philosopher continuous to inspire all. He told that it was only teachers who enlighten their students selflessly and their greatest joy is to see their students excel in life. The Vice-Chancellor said that the world has become very competitive now and all are under regular scrutiny. To become a good teacher is very tough and they have a big responsibility towards the students, the society and the nation.

Prof Chaudhary said that professional institutions like farm universities demand truthful research for the common good of society. One has to be true to the science and plan experiments in an innovative way having an impact on the farmers' welfare. He asked scientists to improve thinking and planning to compete at the national and international levels. He said that scientists should become leaders in some of the areas like temperate gasses, commodities present in mountains, gene sequences, molecular cytogenetics, etc. He asked all teachers to consider teachers' day as an introspection time and improve themselves. He also asked the students to imbibe the good virtues of their teachers and create a niche for themselves in this world. "Be different and depict yourself at the world level," exhorted the Vice-Chancellor. He said that all should take it a challenge to take forward the vision and mission of the University.

Former Vice-Chancellor of Agriculture University Jammu Dr P.K.Sharma, Keynote speaker and Chief Guest delivered a lecture on 'The art of writing a research paper.' He detailed important parameters of good research papers like focus, data, simple writing style, small sentences, proper title, genuine author sequence, proper introduction, results, discussions, conclusions, grammatically correct language, etc. He said that agriculture research paper writing is an art and one must sharpen one's skill to write a good quality research paper.

Dr Rishi Mahajan welcomed and thanked all. The students Chandan Thakur, Nidhi Sharma and Vishakha Pathania shared their experiences in the University and thanked teachers for their regular efforts to groom them.

Palampur 28 August.A four days training on protected cultivation concluded at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

This was sixth training programme under 'Mukhymanti Nutan Polyhouse Priyojna' of the total 52 such trainings sponsored by the State Department of Agriculture to the University. Twenty nine farmers from Una, Hamirpur, Solan, Bilaspur and Kullu districts took part in the training. Prof Madhumet Singh, Director of Extension Education presented certificates to the trainees and asked them to share the gained knowledge among other farmers of their area. He told that more than 150 farmers of the State has been trained in protected cultivation this year. Dr Lav Bhushan, training incharge also addressed the farmers. Some farmers like Shri Manoj Kumar, Vishal Sharma and Bhagwan Das thanked the University for the training.

Virtual national training on organic and natural farming concludes at CSKHPAU

Palampur 26 August. A three days virtual national training on organic and natural farming concluded at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

This training was jointly organized by the Directorate of Extension Education of the University and National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE), Hyderabad. During the training various aspects related to crop, vegetable, fruit, fodder, dairy products and quality organic food production under organic and natural farming were discussed by the speakers. The visuals with experimental results of natural farming trials in the University were shared with the participants. It evoked great interest among all the participants as CSKHPAU is the very first University in the country to initiate research work on natural farming.

In the inaugural session Dr Madhumeet Singh, Director of Extension Education-cum-Course Director emphasized the importance of quality food to avoid health hazards due to injudicious use of agro-chemicals in crop and animal husbandry. Dr Vishal Dogra, Course Coordinator told that there was immense response for the training from all over the country and this shows the relevance of this topic in current times. Dr B. Renuka Rani, Deputy Director, MANAGE said that in future also MANAGE will organize such trainings in collaboration with CSKHPAU.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor has appreciated the Directorate of Extension Education for taking initiative to organise the virtual training and highlighting the importance of natural and organic farming.

In this training 13 specialized lectures were delivered by the faculty of university and other institutes. The training was attended by more than 200 extension functionaries from State department of agriculture and allied sectors, faculty of farm universities , State Agriculture Management and Training Institutes, NGOs, scientists from Indian Council of Agricultural Research and Krishi Vigyan Kendars from as many as 22 states of the country. An evaluation test was conducted at the end of training sessions and successful candidates will be given e-certificates by MANAGE, Hyderabad.

CSKHPAU launches new digital services for the students and farmers: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU

Palampur 24 August. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University launched two new services for the students and farming community during the convocation held yesterday. Disclosing this, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor said that the facility of National Academic Depository (NAD) digilocker will provide access to the students for their authentic digital degrees and other academic documents. Newly updated website of the University includes dedicated Kisaan portal for transfer of technologies. Now, the farmers will be able to get scientific solutions to their crop, animal husbandry and related problems in simple Hindi on Kisaan Portal.

The Vice-Chancellor said that the NAD Digilocker ecosystem comprises academic institutions, students, verifying partners on NAD repository.The University has taken lead among farm varsities to publish the degrees on NAD Digilocker platform which will digitally empower the students and will help in making the institution paperless. The students can register themselves on the Digilocker and can access the Degree Certificates directly on their account and mobile phones just like License, Adhaar card, etc. The issued documents in DigiLocker system are deemed to be at par with original physical documents. He appreciated the National e-Governance Division and the Project team of Digilocker for their support in the implementation of this service in the University.

Prof H.K. Chaudhary said that the University has also updated its website by making it user friendly. The relevant academic, research and extension education information has been designed in an interactive and dynamic manner at par with international standards. As per the needs of National Education Policy 2020, the students will find it convenient to search the ongoing research programs and future dimensions. The website is bilingual and includes a dedicated Kisaan portal for transfer of technologies. The farmers can ask questions directly from the field and get fast and reliable solutions from the University experts. They may also upload the relevant photos along with their questions in Hindi or English on the portal. He said that the directions have been issued to resolve theses queries on priority by a dedicated group of experts. The scientists will be providing solutions either by a visit, if necessary or through telephone or whatsapp. On Kisaan Portal, short videos of success stories and agro technologies of the farmers across the state will also be made available. As per the need, the University will keep modifying the Kisaan Portal and its website.

The Governor to preside over; Chief Minister Chief Guest in CSKHPAU convocation on 23 August: Vice-Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhary

Palampur 3 August. CSK H.P. Agriculture University will organise its 16th convocation on 23 August. This was disclosed by Prof.H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, during a Press Conference, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor said that the Governor of Himachal Pradesh and Chancellor of the University has given his consent to hold the Convocation and will also preside over this important academic ceremony. Shri Jai Ram Thakur, Chief Minister will be the Chief Guest and Shri Shanta Kumar, former Chief Minister credited with establishing this University in November 1978 will be the esteemed Guest of Honour. He told that Shri Virender Kanwar, Minister of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj and Shri Vipin Singh Parmar, Speaker, H.P.Vidhan Sabha will also grace the Convocation as Guests of Honour.

Prof Chaudhary informed that among 393-degree recipients, 262 graduates of four constituent colleges will be awarded degrees and 110 candidates will be awarded degrees in Masters' programmes in Agriculture, Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Home Science and Basic Science. In doctoral progammes, 21 candidates will receive their degrees. Eight students will be awarded University Gold Medals.

The Vice-Chancellor said that preparations for the Convocation are in full swing and Covid-19 instructions will be followed strictly. Live streaming of the ceremony will be done enabling the students and parents to watch the Convocation who are unable to attend. The University will also launch its updated user friendly website having a Kisan Portal in Hindi.

Shri Sandeep Sood, HAS, Registrar and Dr Hirday Paul Singh, Joint Director (Information & PR) were present in the Press Conference attended by around twenty Media persons.

Palampur 15 August. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University has decided to ban single use plastic. This was announced by Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor his Independence Day address, here today.

After hoisting the Tricolour and inspecting an impressive parade by the NCC contingent of the University, Prof Chaudhary paid glowing tributes to the freedom fighters whose supreme sacrifices have allowed the countrymen to enjoy precious freedom. He said that the collaborative efforts of hard working farming community, scientists, planners and policy makers enabled the country to traverse a glorious path of making country food surplus beginning with green revolution in 1960s. " The challenges in H.P. are different due to tough geographical and climatic conditions so we need to think out of box to address issues like disaster management, stray cattle menace, water conservation, etc.", said Prof Chaudhary and detailed major plans for the 75th Independence Year progammes.

The Vice-Chancellor said that a conference of 75 agricultural ambassadors (Krishi Doots) will be held with active participation of farm students and scientists, 75 videos of traditional knowledge of farmers will be uploaded on the Kisan portal of updated website of the University, one village one Tiranga programme by each Krishi Vigyan Kendra will be held, One valley two products, Tricolor Rangeen Thali Poshak Thali, Lakshya Yojna for small farmers, three days state level farm women fair, etc were other programmes envisaged. The University will launch digilocker, e-office, users friendly webpage, etc. very soon. He also suggested scientists to accelerate work on crop diversification, integrated farming, getting Geographical Indicators for traditional Himalayan crops and enhance research on rich animal genetic resources in tribal areas. He said that the University students and scientists will extend their services in cow sanctuaries, educate school students about career opportunities in farm education, enlighten farmers about new technology in far flung areas and help the society in various ways.
Prof Chaudhary administered oaths to the participants to upkeep the honour, pride and dignity of the nation and stop use of single use plastic. He also pledged to take forward the University and sought cooperation of all to make it number one in all farm universities of the country. He appreciated NCC cadets for brining glory to the University.

Some cultural porgammes were organized and sweets were distributed to all participants including Statutory Officers, staff and students who attended the celebrations observing all pandemic related instructions.

Collaborative approach and holistic technologies by farm institutions are mantra for doubling the income of farmers: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU

Palampur 5 August. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University has suggested that all institutions working for the welfare of farmers should come together so that the collaborative approach with holistic technologies may increase the income of farming community in Himachal Pradesh.

The Vice-Chancellor was giving his views as Co-chairman in a 'State Level Interface Meeting on State Specific issues pertaining to agriculture and allied sectors for the State of Himachal Pradesh' today. Prof Chaudhary said that farm universities, Indian Council of Agricultural Research(ICAR) institutions, departments of agriculture and horticulture, Krishi Vigyan Kendras(KIVKs), etc. were working very efficiently but mostly in isolation. They must join hands for optimum utilization of proven technologies and sharing these to the farmers. He also advocated developing smart seed villages where progressive farmers will be motivated to produce seeds of wheat and other crops to make the state self sufficient on seeds and saving resources worth Rs.45 crore every year. He also emphasized assured marketing of farm produce and reduction in post harvest losses. Prof Chaudhary said that 'one valley one or two commodities' concept with traditional potential crops should be encouraged with efforts to get geographical indicators for such crops. He said that all fallow land must be brought under cultivation. He suggested that un-trained people must not be allowed to do artificial insemination in rural areas as it was one of the major reasons for turning cattle un-productive. He told that his university was doing work on artificial insemination with sexed semen to produce only female calves. It will help to reduce the problem of stray cattle in H.P.

The Vice-Chancellor detailed development of technologies by his University for doubling the income of farmers. He said that 168 crop varieties and more than 100 technological interventions have been developed besides 13 improved farm tools have also been developed and the University supplies 800 quintal breeder seed annually to the State Department of Agriculture for further multiplication for the farmers. Twenty farm and animal husbandry based models have been developed for doubling the income of farmers. He discussed several issues pertinent to farming and his university's research efforts on post harvest technology, rainwater harvesting, integrated farming system, quality planting material, organic and natural farming technologies, bee keeping, availability of silage to the farmers for better feed to their animals, animal disease control mechanism, shiitake cultivation, etc. He also discussed issues like perennial grasses and supply of silage, Startup programmes for developing entrepreneurship, agro-tourism for increasing income, precisions agriculture, Artificial Intelligence in farming, etc.

State Agriculture Universities, ICAR institutes in the state, KVKs, research institutes and departments of Agriculture, Horticulture, Fisheries, etc. took part in the virtual meeting.

Dr.Parvinder Kaushal, Vice-Chancellor, Dr YSP UHF, Dr.Vikrmaditya Singh, ADG ICAR, Dr Manoj Kumar, Director , CPRI Shimla, Dr.D.K.Vatsa, Director of Research and Dr.Madhimeet Singh, Director of Extension Education from CSKHPAU, etc also expressed their views.

Prof.H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU, exhorts farmers to grow specialized crops

Palampur 3 August. Prof.H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University has asked the farmers to take advantage of their specialized crops to take lead in earning money and name. He was addressing a group of 35 red rice farmers from Chamba district during their training-cum-interaction programme at Rice and Wheat Research Station of the University at Malan today.

Prof.H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor said that the people in metropolis have understood the importance of red rice so it was in demand. He asked the young farmers to learn more about the 'Karad' red rice and conserve it. He said that it was important to conserve and propagate traditional crop varieties of Chamba district. He expressed his happiness that administrative officers of the district were taking interest in agriculture development in the district. Prof Chaudhary said that he always felt blessed to meet farmers in their fields. He asked farmers to get in touch with the university and its research and extension centres for their farm related issues.

Shri Bachan Sing, SDM, Bhatiya, Mrs. Sunyana Sharma, District Tourism Development Officer detailed about various government schemes and agro-tourism.

Dr. D.K.Vatsa, Director of Research, Dr. Kuldeep Dhiman, Deputy Director Agriculture Chamba and Dr. Jeet Singh, Deputy Director Agriculture, Palampur, Dr. Ajay Srivastava, Scientist Incharge of the Rice and Wheat Station, Drs. S.P.Dixt, Daizy Basandrai, A.D.Bindra, Sachin Upmanyu, etc also expressed their views.

Training for internal committee on 'Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act at CSKHPAU'

Palampur 31 July. A training programme for internal complaints committee (ICC) was held at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

The Chief Guest Dr. Daisy Thakur, Chairperson, H.P.State Commission for Women underlined the importance of the 'Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.' She said that the members of ICC must be aware about the provisions of this act which ensures equality and safe working environment to the women staff. She elaborated about the major rules, regulations and provisions of this act and asked the members to maintain absolute confidentiality when they receive and process any complaint. She told that the commission was creating awareness about the act as women were nor much aware about their rights at workplace.

Guest of Honour Shri Sandeep Sood, HAS, Registrar, said that the respect for women should be inculcated at the family level so that we consider our all colleagues, including female staff, as our family members and give them due respect and dignity to work. He informed that the University was providing all opportunities to its female students and staff to pursue their goals without any restrictions. The University was providing dignity and safety to all.

Dr.Vedna Kumar, Chairperson, ICC, told that at present there was no pending complaint in with her from the University staff. The committee comprises nine members from the different colleges and offices representing all teaching and non-teaching staff with two outside members also. Dr.Anjali Sood, District Attorney Shri Sanjeev Rana also expressed their views.

Shri Anuj Verma, Assistant District Attorney, HP State Commission for Women conducted the training attended by Drs.Sudheer Rana, Ashok Panda, Daisy Rani, Usha Rana, Anuradha Sharma, Anju Bala, Ravi Kant Sharma, etc.

Dr.Mandeep Sharma, Dean. Dr. GC Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences and Dr. Hirday Paul Singh, Jt. Director (Information & PR) and some students were present in the inaugural ceremony.

Vice-Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhary honours two progressive farmers and three KVKs

Palampur 27 July. Progressive farmers Shri Hariman Sharma and Shri Sanjay Kumar were honored in a 'Samman Samaroh' (honoring ceremony) by CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, while decorating both farmers with a certificate, shawl and cap, said that he was happy that his recommendation for prestigious national level 'Jagjivan Ram Abhinav Kisan Puruskar' for innovations to Shri Hariman Sharma from village Paniyala (Bilaspur) and another recommendation for 'Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Antodaya Krishi Puruskar' for outstanding performance to Shri Sanjay Kumar from village Palhuta (Mandi) were duly honored by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research awards (ICAR). Both farmers shared Rs. One Lakh prize each with two other farmers from other states.

The Vice-Chancellor said that both farmers were suitably recognized by the University as University's Krishi Doot (Agricultural Ambassadors) and their photographs with citations were displayed in the Statehood Golden Jubilee Farmers' Gallery inaugurated in the University in January, this year. They are the embodiment of motivation to farmers of Himachal Pradesh. He expressed the hope that these national awards by the ICAR will also encourage other progressive farmers to take up the University technology on a massive scale.

The Vice-Chancellor also honoured three Krishi Vigyan Kendras(KVK) of the University for bagging awards in the Zonal Workshop of ICAR, held recently. Programme Coordinator(PC) Dr. Suman Kumar and his team from KVK, Berthin were awarded for bagging 'Best KVK Award' and 'Second Presentation Award' among all KVKs in H.P. On behalf of PC Dr. Surender Kumar Thakur; Dr Luv Bhushan and KVK team from Lahaul & Spiti were awarded for remaining 'Second Best KVK' among all KVKs in H.P. and PC Dr.Sanjay Sharma and his team from KVK, Kangra were awarded for getting 'Best Presentation Award' in the State.

Prof. Chaudhary said that he was duty bound and felt blessed to work tirelessly for the welfare of farmers. He will endeavor to get 'best university award to CSK HPAU' among all farm varsities in the country. The first step for it was to make all plans farmer centric. Several efforts have been initiated to get recognition for specialized and specific hill crops as the hill state cannot compete with plains for production of major crops of those states. He asked all staff members to excel in their given jobs to advance the university mandate and rank.

Both farmers expressed their gratitude to the University KVKs and scientists for their regular guidance enabling them to make remarkable progress in farming. They exhorted all farmers to get guidance from the University to increase their yields and income. Programme Coordinators of KVKs also thanked the Vice-Chancellor for honoring them.

Dr Madhumeet Singh, Director of Extension Education, told that the acceptance of the University technology by the farming community has proved its worth time and again. He honoured Shri Bishan Das Chaudhary, father of the Vice-Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhary, for gracing the occasion despite his advance age.

Dr D.K.Vatsa, Director of Research; Dr. Mandeep Sharma, Dean, Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Science; Dr. R.K.Kataria, Dean, College of Agriculture and Dr.Y.S.Dhaliwal, Dean, College of Community Science also congratulated the farmers.

All Statutory Officers, PCs of all University KVKs, Head of Departments, scientists and some progressive farmers were present in the 'Samman Samaroh.'

Palampur 26 July. To commemorate the Kargil Vijay Diwas, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University sent NCC cadets of the University to the home of Shaheed Capt.Saurabh Kalia at Palampur. They paid their tributes to Capt Kalia, who was an alumnus of the University and the first martyr in the Kargil war.

The parents of Capt Kalia appreciated this gesture by the University NCC cadets. Prof.H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor said that the nation was proud of its martyrs and the University cadets will be sent to the families of martyrs of this area to get inspiration and learn about their supreme sacrifices for the nation.

CSKHPAU Veterinary Scientists organized animal infertility treatment camps in Spiti valley

Palampur 20 July. A team of veterinary scientists from CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University organized seven infertility treatment camps in different parts of Spiti Sub-division of District Lahaul & Spiti from 14-20 July.

The camps were organized in at villages Guling, Sagnam, Tashigung, Gette, Kibber, Kaza and Chichong situated between the altitude of 12000 -15300 feet height above mean sea level. Tashigung village is world's highest polling station at 15,256 feet . The camps were organised in collaboration with the State Department of Animal Husbandry under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna (RKVY) project, entitled "Investigation and management of infertility in bovines of H.P. with special reference to high altitude tribal areas", to investigate the status of infertility in bovines reared in tribal areas of H.P.

Prof. Madhumeet Singh, team leader, told that around 150 cows and Churi (crossbred of Yak and Cows) were examined and treated in these camps, with the main emphasis to record reproductive abnormalities in milch animals reared by the farmers in Tribal areas. The scientists collected blood samples to study their minerals, biochemical and hormonal profile and also genital discharge samples for detailed diagnosis of uterine infections. Faecal samples were also collected to study the parasitic load in animals in this area and their relationship with infertility. Free treatment was provided to the animals. Prof. Madhumeet Singh, Director Extension Education and head of the Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics told that this department is rendering specialized services to the farmers in different parts of the state for the treatment of various reproductive disorders with an aim to reduce the incidence of infertility.

Prof Harinder Kumar Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, while appreciating the scientists for serving the farmers in remote and less accessible tribal areas under adverse weather and pandemic conditions, told that during the last 8 years, scientists from this department have organized 287 infertility treatment camps under RKVY projects in diverse parts of the State, including more than 125 camps in tribal and other very remote locations. Area wise mapping of reproductive ailments through clinic-gynaecological examination, nutritional deficiencies through blood investigations, parasitic infestation responsible for reproduction problems and microflora (bacteria and fungi) responsible for uterine infections is being done. He said that the dedication of scientists was worth emulating for young scientists. The Vice-Chancellor also interacted on phone with some of the farmers of Spiti.

Besides Prof. Madhumeet Singh, the team members included Dr.Pravesh Kumar and Mr. Vijay Rana from the Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics

Two H.P. farmers got national award on the recommendations of Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU

Palampur 17 July. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agricultural University has extended his greeting to two progressive farmers from the State who were awarded on the occasion of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) foundation day yesterday.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary had recommended the name of Shri Harman Sharma from village Panyala (Bilaspur) for the prestigious national level 'Jagjivan Ram Abhinav Kisan Puruskar' for his innovations in his recommendation letter in early February, this year. Shri Sharma has shared this Rs. One lakh award with another farmer from Bihar. Another recommendation of the Vice-Chancellor was for Shri Sanjay Kumar from village Plauhta (Mandi) for the 'Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Antodaya Krishi Puruskar' to recognize his outstanding performance . Shri Sanjay has also shared this Rs. One lakh award with another farmer from Gujarat.

The Vice-Chancellor said that both farmers were duly recognized by the University as University's Agricultural Ambassadors (Krishi Doot) and their photographs with citations were displayed in the Statehood Golden Jubilee Farmer's Gallery inaugurated in the University in January, this year. They are the epitome of inspiration to farmers of the state. He added that this national level recognition by the ICAR will also motivate other progressive farmers to adopt the scientific technology developed by the University and propagated among farmers by Krishi Vigyan Kendras and the State Deptt. of Agriculture.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary also expressed his gratitude to the ICAR for honoring his recommendations for these hard-working farmers from Himachal Pradesh. Both farmers have thanked the University and Vice-Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhary for recommending their name to ICAR enabling them to get this rare national honour.

350 saplings of fruit trees planted in the Golden Jubilee Nutrition Garden at CSKHPAU

Palampur 16 July. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University commemorated the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) foundation day by planting 350 saplings of fruit trees in the Golden Jubilee Nutrition Garden here today.

Chief Guest Prof H.K.Chaudahry, Vice-Chancellor, after planting a sapling of medicinal value plant Harad, addressed the scientists and students and conveyed greeting to the ICAR for its commendable work in the last 92 years. He underlined the importance of planting trees and exhorted all to plant at least two trees in their home or surroundings. He said that Himachal Pradesh has several species of trees like Fig, Tooni, Khirik and Beul etc. which are grown on bunds in the villages. He appreciated that 350 saplings of fruit trees such as Malta, Mousambi, Mandarine, Kagzi lime, Grapefruit, Sweet lime, Galgal, Baramasi lemon, Guava, Litchi, Mango, Fig, Jamun and trees of medicinal value such as Harad, Bhera, Aonla, Lasora, Tejpatta etc were planted today. He announced that the university will introduce a course for its students from the ensuing academic session where they will have to plant two saplings and take care of these plantations during their stay in the University. They will be given marks and certificates based on their tree plantation and care. He applauded the whole staff for working tirelessly and helping him to take forward the university.

Later, the Vice-Chancellor also attended the ICAR foundation day programme through virtual mode.

Dr.D.K.Vatsa, Director of Research told that the theme of the programme was 'Her Merh per Perh'. Dr. SK Upadhyay , Head, Deptt. of Horticulture & Agroforestry informed that a program was also organized in Band Bihar village where 150 trees of different Agroforestry species like Reetha, Tooni, Amla and Silver oak were planted by the farmers on their individual lands and also on the community land.

Statutory officers, head of the Departments, scientists, non-teaching staff and post graduate students attended the programme at the University.

CSKHPAU to institute awards for young scientists: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 3 July. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University has decided to institute 'Vice-Chancellor's Best Department Award' and 'Vice-Chancellor's excellence award for early research in career award'.

After wrapping up his weeklong review of all 18 departments and interacting with all scientists working in Dr.G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, announced that two awards to develop competitive spirit among 40 departments in the University and to encourage young scientists to excel in their initial five years professional career, will be instituted. The Vice-Chancellor said that excellent work was done in the collage and it must reach the livestock keepers and farmers in an easy to understand written and visual form during the current Golden Jubilee of H.P. Statehood.

Prof Chaudhary expressed his satisfaction that a good number of young scientists have joined the college during the last one year and exhorted them to work in collaboration with national and international institutes, win fellowships and awards help farmers and others to take up Startups and develop economically viable and useful technologies.

The Vice-Chancellor said that many pockets in the State have unique problems which require focused research and out of box thinking can produce wonderful results. He said that each scientist must-have a research project to the tune of Rs.10 lakh or more and every eligible teacher should guide at least one student in postgraduate research. "For systematic treatment of animal disease, the scientist may also study old scriptures, Vedas, Shastras and consult old farmers to gain traditional knowledge and document it". He also suggested establishing a herbal garden to utilize plants and provide knowledge to the students.

Prof Chaudhary said that the disease forecasting system in valleys and other areas need to be developed and important recommendations for all field veterinary hospitals and farmers should be developed as the University and farmers have high expectations from COVAS. He said that enriching meadows and pastures with improved fodder and grasses and developing supplements of proteins and minerals for migratory sheep and goats will increase their production.

He said that COVAS has gained respect and prestige among all veterinary colleges in the country and the University will extend all support in its endeavours for international recognition. Dean Dr Mandeep Sharma, Director of Research Dr D.K.Vatsa, Director Extension Education Dr Madhumeet Singh and Students' Welfare Officer Dr.V.K.Gupta also thanked the Vice-Chancellor for taking a keen interest in the college activities and freely interacting with the students and all staff members.

Palampur 29 June. To celebrate 'National Statistics Day-2021', a webinar was organized at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

Chief Guest Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, discussed various statistical techniques to improve research in the field of agriculture and allied sciences. He exhorted the youngsters to understand the importance of statistics and its role in the day to day life. Prof Chaudhary recalled the contributions of Prof. Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, on whose birth anniversary this day is celebrated. Guest of honor and keynote speaker Prof. Narinder Kumar from Deptt. of Statistics, Panjab University, Chandigarh spoke on the evolution of statistics from the beginning of civilization to the modern era. Prof. Anita Singh, Dean College of Basic Sciences, Prof. Sharda Singh, Head, Department of Physical Sciences and Languages, Mr. Arun Kumar and Dr. Banti Kumar also participated in the webinar attended by around 250 students and research scholars.

Palampur 25 June. Thirteen crop varieties developed by CSK H.P. Agriculture University have been released for cultivation in Himachal Pradesh. This was disclosed by Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, here today.

The newly developed and released wheat variety HPW 373 (Him Palam Gehun 3) has been recommended for late sown rainfed conditions in low and mid-hills of Himachal Pradesh. It has good chapatti making quality parameters coupled with a high degree of resistance against yellow rust and leaf rust coupled with a high yield potential of 28.0 - 32.0 quintal per hectare. Barley variety HBL 804(Him Palam Jau 2) is a dual-purpose, 6 rowed, hulled barley variety, suitable for timely sown rainfed conditions in low and mid-hills of Himachal Pradesh. It has a high degree of resistance to stripe and brown rusts and has an average green fodder yield of 25-30 q/ha and grain yield of 20-25 q/ha. The variety matures in about 170-185 days. The soybean variety Him Palam Hara Soya-1((Himso-1685) has been recommended for rainfed conditions in mid-hill zone of H.P. It has an average seed yield 20-22q/ha; average oil content 20.10 per cent; average protein content 30.6 percent and is highly resistant against frogeye leaf spot, pod blight, bacterial pustule and brown spot diseases. Mustard variety Trombay Him Palam Mustard-1 has been recommended for timely sown, irrigated conditions in low and mid-hill areas of H.P. It has an average seed yield of 11.2q/ha; average oil content 39.9 per cent and is a moderately susceptible reaction against Alternaria blight at leaf stage.

Other than these cereal and oilseed varieties, nine vegetable crop varieties have also been released. These include two varieties of garden pea Him Palam Matar-1 and Him Palam Matar-2, one variety of edible pod pea Him Palam Meethi Phali-2, two varieties of Chilli Him Palam Mirch-1 and Him Palam Mirch-2, Parthenocarpic cucumber Him Palam Kheera-1, cherry tomato variety Him Palam Cherry yellow, onion variety Him Palam Shweta and radish variety Him Palam Mooli-1

The Vice-Chancellor has expressed the hope that the State farmers will adopt the newly developed and released varieties. These varieties will certainly increase their harvests and income. He has appreciated Dr. Vijay Rana, Late Dr Naval Kishore and Drs. Vedna Kumari, Viveka, Akhilesh Sharma, Sonia Sood, Parveen Sharma and Sanjay Chadha for developing these varieties for the farmers of Himachal Pradesh.

100 students administered first dose of Covid-19 vaccine at CSK H.P. Agriculture University

Palampur 23 June. One hundred students and some staff members were administered the first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

It is pertinent to mention that the University took lead among all Universities in the State to vaccinate its staff and students. Earlier, during 11-14 April, 340 staff members were given the first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine at the university health center (UHC). To remove any fear psychosis among staff, Vice-Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhary and first lady Dr. Parveen Lata Chaudhary were among the firsts to receive the first dose of vaccine and motivate other employees.

Today, Prof Harinder Kumar Chaudhary visited UHC and got his son Er. Yashdeep Chaudhary vaccinated and interacted with the students. He thanked the State Govt. and the State Health Department for allowing vaccination at UHC thus releasing pressure on the Civil Hospital, Palampur. The Vice-Chancellor also thanked the CMO, Kangra for extending requisite support to Senior Medical Officer and all staff members at UHC for the vaccination drive. He also appreciated Dr Anjana S Tuli, Senior Medical Officer, Dr Priyanka Rana, Medical Officer and all staff members for deftly dealing with the corona cases and extending services to the staff and students during the pandemic.

Shri Pankaj Sharma, HAS, Registrar, and Dr.Satish Paul, Dean, Post Graduate Studies were also present during the visit of the Vice-Chancellor to UHC.

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Palampur 21 June. International Yoga Day was celebrated at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

Prof Harinder Kumar Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, after attending the hour-long session, said that Yoga has, again, proved its importance and relevance during the pandemic. All those who practice it daily know well that it has been able to keep physical and mental health in positive shape. Yoga helps one to move from the state of stress to strength so all should make it an essential part of their daily routine. Prof Chaudhary wished excellent health to all staff members and students.

The Vice-Chancellor appreciated the Registrar and SWO for regularly arranging Yoga session and also thanked yoga teacher Ms.Sneh. Statutory officers and some staff members were present on the occasion and the University, the community participated in it through online mode.

Shri Virender Kanwar exhorts scientists and farm officers to make H.P. self reliant in seeds

Palampur 17 June. Shri Virender Kanwar, Hon'ble Minister of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Govt. of H.P. has exhorted the scientists and farm officers to make the state self reliant on seed requirements of major crops. The Minister was chairing a meeting of scientists and officers at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

Shri Kanwar said that progressive farmers should be involved in massive seed production programme and efforts should be made to make Himachal Pradesh self sufficient in its seed requirements to save resources and have check on quality. He informed that there was a boon in agriculture and horticulture during the pandemic as a large number of people have adopted farming after returning to their roots from big cities. He said that industrialization propelled migration from villages to cities and some people considered farming inferior and now youngsters want to join petty government jobs. Such people should be given different farming models so that they gladly adopt agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, fisheries, etc.

He recalled the times when farmers used to grow cereal and pulses, rear milch cattle and other animals but they abandoned such integrated system of farming due to green revolution. He also underlined the need to check unauthorised sale and quality of insecticides, pesticides, animal feed and other farm inputs. Shri Kanwar said that that only that research is worth which is useful to the farming community. He also advised the University to make serious efforts for becoming self reliant by enhancing domestic income He suggested adopting limited number of farmers in each Panchayat and training them to adopt natural farming or other models of farming for more income and safe food production.

Shri Kanwar appreciated the University for developing and releasing thirteen crop varieties recently.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, detailed major achievements in academic, research and extension education activities. He said that the University was committed to work relentlessly for the socio-economic development of the farming community with quality human resources development, need based research and transferring the useful technology to the nook and corner of the State. He also informed about new research endeavours like recent release of 13 crop varieties and efforts to register 51 technologies in the Golden Jubilee year of the State, work on producing only female calves, work on Pahari cow, conservation of genetic resources and creation of seed gene bank, new MoUs, etc. The Vice-Chancellor expressed his gratitude to the Govt. of H.P. for constant support and sought funds to the tune of Rs.4.50 crore for the compound wall of the University.

Shri Pankaj Sharma, HAS, Registrar, welcomed the Hon'ble Minister, Smt Meena Kanwar and other dignitaries.

Hon'ble Minister released compendium on 'Fertility management in cows of Himachal Pradesh' authored by Drs. Madhumeet Singh, Parvesh Kumar and Akshay Sharma and 'Dynamic Agricultural Scenario in H.P.-stories of promising rural Agri-preneures� by Drs. Y.P.Thakur Desh Raj Chaudhary, Lab Bhushan and Deepika Sud.

Earlier, the Minister inaugurated research projects and infrastructure worth Rs.1.23 crore including a project on conservation and propagation of Gaddi dogs worth Rs.78 lakh, layer poultry house worth Rs. 20 lakh and hydroponic unit worth Rs.25 lakh. The Minister visited the natural farming unit and veterinary clinics.

Dr Ajay Sharma, IAS, Secretary (Agriculture),Shri Rakesh Kanwar, IAS, Special Secretary (Agriculture & Finance) and Secretary to Governor, Shri Naresh Thakur, HAS, Director Agriculture, Dr Ajmer Dogra, Director Animal Husbandry, Dr Rajeshwar Chandel, Executive Director, SPNF, Dr.J.S.Rana, Chief Advisor JICA and some other senior officers from the Govt. of H.P. and Statutory Officers from the university were present on the occasion.

High level meeting on enhancing synergy between farmers' development departments and institutions at CSK HP Agriculture University

Palampur 16 June. To take stock of the various activities at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University and enhancing coordination between various farmers' development departments and institutions, an interaction meeting was held here today. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, Dr Ajay Sharma, IAS, Secretary (Agriculture), Shri Rakesh Kanwar, IAS, Special Secretary (Agriculture & Finance) and Secretary to Governor, Shri Naresh Thakur, HAS, Director Agriculture, Dr Rajeshwar Chandel, Executive Director, SPNF, and some other senior officers from the Govt. of H.P. and Statutory Officers from the University took part in the daylong meeting.

While chairing the meeting, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor said that smart agriculture is answer to several issues of the farming community. He detailed major academic, research and extension education activities and said that though pandemic has been able to delay but not dampen his spirit to extend all useful technologies to the farmers. He disclosed that in the recent past some highly qualified youngsters have been motivated to adopt scientific farming after their job loss. The University has moved fast to sign MoUs for pubic private partnerships and initiating steps to establish centers of some national institutes in the state. He detailed steps for registration of 51 products of H.P. under Geographic Indicators. Prof Chaudhary discussed research work on natural and organic agriculture and revival of research work on fisheries, Indian panther hound, heritage bee farm, centers of excellence on sheep and goat, etc. The Vice-Chancellor also sought government support to fill up approved essential teaching and non-teachings positions to fulfill the mandate at a faster pace.

Dr Ajay Sharma, IAS, Secretary (Agriculture), underlined the need to preserve, conserve and propagate seeds of traditional crop varieties of the State. He asked the University to provide accurate data about the change in cropping pattern, productivity, etc. through its geo-informatics centre, involving students in remote sensing based and other research projects, propagation of bamboo through tissue culture, etc. and sought information about diversification and intensification models, etc. He emphasized active collaboration between the University and State Department of Agriculture and other development departments for better project formulation, implementation and swift reach to the famers with useful technology. Dr Sharma suggested replication of proven technology and crops in a particular area to other districts.

Shri Rakesh Kanwar, IAS, Special Secretary (Agriculture & Finance) and Shri Naresh Thakur, HAS, Director Agriculture also gave suggestions for better collaboration for the benefit of farmers.

Some Heads of department made presentations on development of seed based and area specific seed and crop intensification and diversification models, multiplication of the certified seed involving farmers, geo-tagging of seed production models, compatibility plan for conversion of pahari indigenous cow to better yielding, natural farming models, appropriate mechanization tools, DNA labs at district levels, etc.

Shri Pankaj Sharma, HAS, Registrar welcomed all. The high level team visited molecular cyto-genetics and Tissue Culture lab, centre for geo-informatics research and training, department of horticulture and agro-forestry, Golden Jubilee Nutrition Garden, etc. where the concerned scientists detailed research work.

Palampur 15 June. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University will conduct written screening test for the post of Junior Office Assistant (IT) on 21 July. According to Shri Pankaj Sharma, Registrar, the screening test for 50 posts of JOA(IT) will be conducted in the Kangra, Chamba, Hamirpur and Mandi district from 11.00 AM to 12.30 PM on 21 July. The call letters to 10082 eligible candidates are being sent on their mailing address.

Palampur 14 June. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University scientists will be visiting villages in the immediate vicinity of the campus more frequently to motivate the farmers to adopt integrated farm technology. This was disclosed by Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, during his maiden visit to the Tanda, Pandtehar, Banuri and some other villages in the surroundings of the University.

The Vice-Chancellor while interacting with progressive farmers said that he has got feedback that some farmers were not able to cultivate their fields as wild and stray cattle were damaging crops. So to motivate such and other farmers he will be frequently visiting villages in the neighborhood of the University. He asked farmers not to leave land uncultivated and seek help of the scientists for technology and take advantage of several governments initiatives and schemes for farm inputs. He suggested them to adopt integrated farming for rich dividends. "There is ample scope for organic and natural farming with many crops which are not damaged by wild animals like monkeys so farmers may come forward to grow such crops to get income from their farm land left fallow fearing damage by stray and wild animals", opined Prof Chaudhary.

Prof Chaudhary also advised the farmers to frequently visit the University and treat it as a temple of knowledge. He appreciated some farmers for preserving seed of traditional crop varieties.

Shri Ravinder Singh Pathania, a nonagenarian, recalled the times when College of Agriculture was established in 1966 and scientists used to visit nearby villages with farm inputs to motivate the villagers to adopt farming. He profusely thanked Prof Chaudhary for the new initiative. Vinod Pathania, Manoj Nayetal, Ramesh Chand and some other farmers agreed to the advise of the Vice-Chancellor and decided to put the fallow land under use with useful crops like soybean, turmeric, ginger, zimikand, colocasia, chili, okra, etc. He directed the scientists to provide soybean seeds from this very season for demonstration.

The Vice-Chancellor was accompanied by Dr.Madhumeet Singh, Director of Extension Education, Dr.R.K.Kataria, Dean College of Agriculture and some head of departments.

CSKHPAU Veterinary Scientists organize animal infertility treatment camps in Lahaul

Palampur 11 June. A team of veterinary scientists from CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University organized six infertility treatment camps in different parts of Lahaul Sub-division of District Lahaul & Spiti from 7-11 June. The camps were organized in collaboration with State Department of Animal Husbandry at villages Trilokinath, Bardang, Jahlma, Kirting, Gondhla and Sissu under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna (RKVY) project, entitled "Investigation and management of infertility in bovines of Himachal Pradesh with special reference to high altitude tribal areas", to investigate status of infertility in bovines reared in tribal areas of Himachal Pradesh.

Prof. Madhumeet Singh, team leader, told that around 100 cows were examined and treated in these camps, with the main emphasis to record reproductive abnormalities in milch animals reared by the farmers in Tribal areas. The scientists collected blood samples to study their minerals, biochemical and hormonal profile and also genital discharge samples for detailed diagnosis of uterine infections. Faecal samples were also collected to study the parasitic load in animals in this area and their relationship with infertility. Free medicines were distributed to the farmers.

During the visit of this team, Prof H.K.Chaudhary ,Vice-Chancellor, held virtual interactions with some progressive farmers like Mool Raj Thakur from Trioknath. He appreciated the hard working farmers of the arra and advised them to adopt natural and organic farming at Udaipur and other areas of this tribal district as it has great potential.

While complimenting Prof. Madhumeet Singh, Director Extension Education and head of the department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics for serving the tribal farmers under the prevailing extra ordinary situation, the Vice-Chancellor told that this department is rendering specialized services to the farmers in different parts of the state for treatment of various reproductive disorders with an aim to reduce incidence of infertility. Since last 8 years, scientists from department have organized 280 infertility treatment camps under RKVY projects in diverse parts of the State, including around 125 camps in tribal and other very remote locations. Area wise mapping of reproductive ailments through clinic-gynaecological examination, nutritional deficiencies through blood investigations, parasitic infestation responsible for reproduction problems and microflora (bacteria and fungi) responsible for uterine infections is being done.

Besides Prof. Madhumeet Singh, the team members included Dr.Pravesh Kumar and Mr. Vijay Rana from the Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics.

Palampur 11 June. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University has decided to strengthen NCC activities in the near future. This was disclosed by Vice-Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhary during his discussions with Brig Rajeev Thakur, Group Commander, NCC through virtual mode today.

The Vice-Chancellor told that some major initiatives to give impetus to NCC in the University have been taken this year. These include doubling the University NCC unit strength from 100 to 200, hoisting the NCC flag along with the Tricolor and the University Flag in the campus, etc.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, informed that NCC was introduced in the College of Agriculture in 1966 and a good number of students from the University have joined and continue to join armed forces almost every year and serve the motherland. He said that currently equal number of girl and boy cadets have enrolled in the NCC unit and were bringing glory to the institute by regularly qualifying 'C' and 'B' certificates. In the recent past, 27 cadets got 'C' certificates and 35 cadets got 'B' certificates. Most of the qualified cadets were girls who got 'A' grades in the examination. The Vice-Chancellor said that all students in his University understand well the importance of the NCC motto of 'Unity and Discipline.'

The Vice-Chancellor invited Brig Rajeev Thakur to campus and interact with NCC cadets. Dr.Ankur Sharma, NCC officer was present during the virtual meeting.

CSK H.P. Agriculture University to make it mandatory for the students to plant trees: Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 5 June. The world environment day was celebrated at CSK H.P. Agriculture University through virtual mode today. Speaking as a Chief Guest Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, announced that from the ensuing academic session, the University will introduce a course on environment science where it will be compulsory for each student to plant and take care of at least two plants during his or her stay at the campus. The students will be awarded grades at the end of their degree programme based on the performance of their plants.

The Vice-Chancellor said that Mother Nature has been worshiped in India since ages and plants had been an integral part of all religious and other important ceremonies. "God gave a beautifully decorated earth to us but human greed has badly bruised it resulting in catastrophe where man has been compelled to purchase oxygen for survival", said Prof Chaudhary. He opined that the students right from the nursery classes to highest degree programme should be sensitized about the nature and should be taken to forest areas for 'forest therapy' so that they connect to nature and care for it throughout the life. He also discussed the issues related to carbon credits and its importance in reducing, removing and avoiding greenhouse gas emissions for the healthy environment. He also underlined the importance of judicious planning for plantations so that region specific approved plantations are done by the concerned industry, institution, community or individuals. The Vice-Chancellor said that there should be least disturbance to centers of diversity and micro-centers for keeping doors of evolutionary paths open. The Vice-Chancellor said everyone should understand ones responsibility for the conservation, preservation and propagation of healthy environment. He said that it is vital to restore the damage to ecosystems and biodiversity by reimagining and recreating it for the sake of humanity.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary remembered and paid his compliments to the incredible contributions of the renowned environmentalists like Kinkri Devi, forest man of India Jadav Payeng, waterman Rajender Singh, tree man Yoganathan, Padam Vibhushan Sundar Lala Bahuguna etc and asked the younger generation to imbibe their virtues. said that climate change has started adversely affecting crop and animal production.

Guest of Honour Dr. S. S. Samant, Director, Himalayan Forest Research Institute, Shimla opined that ecosystem restoration can provide enhanced biodiversity outcomes as well as improve human well-beings in degraded landscapes. He said that ecological restoration has inherent capacity to provide people with the opportunity not only to repair ecological damage, but also to improve the human condition.

Dr. Hemant K Gupta, IFS, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, H.P. underlined the stepwise importance of ecological restoration and involving the stakeholders. He said that there is a need to adopt a strategy of adaptive ecosystem research and adaptive ecosystem management. He also detailed the efforts of the forest department in ecosystem restoration.

Dr.Anita Singh, Dean, College of Basic Sciences, Dr RG Upadhyay and Dr Radhika Shamra said that ecological restoration will be a key element for conservation and sustainable development.

Vice-Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhry asks scientists to expedite work to get GIs for the traditional crops and other products of HP

Palampur 2 June. A review meeting of the Geographical Indicator Taskforce was held today at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, during the virtual meeting, asked all members of the task force to expedite work to get Geographical Indicators (GIs) of traditional crops, food items, animal breeds and other products having peculiar characteristics in a particular area. He said that Himalayas were a rich treasurer of such resources and it was the duty of the University to explore, identify, conserve and get these registered with appropriate authority. He cited the examples of some known crops, animals and products known by virtue of their area or quality like Bharmour rajmash, Karsog kulthi, Chamba Chukh, White and multi-flora honey from Chamba and Kangra, Kullu Mash, Spiti Chharma, Gaddi dog, Chiggu goat, Spiti horses, etc. He said that there were numerous other crops, vegetables, flowers, products etc which have specific characteristics and identity due to a particular region like tasty Cucumber in a Baijnath village, Zimikand in some areas of Bilaspur, barley beer in Spiti, ginger in some villages of Sirmour, etc need collection of samples, identification of characters and registration with Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Authority of India, National Bureau of Plant or Animal Genetic Resources, etc. He also discussed the importance of Charkhani Pattu, Dohroo, Pude and traditional meat products of H.P. He said that University need to get GIs for these and many more such products to get national and international recognition for the benefit of the farming community. He said that the University was already working to popularize the traditional crop varieties of the State conserved by the farmers and the varieties developed by the University. The Vice-Chancellor said that the scientists should regularly submit projects to Himachal Pradesh Council for Science, Technology, and Environment (HIMCOSTE) for the purpose.

Dr D.K.Vatsa, Director of Research detailed the ongoing work and assured the Vice-Chancellor to get a large number of crops and other products registered expeditiously. Some scientists also gave feedback on their research work on theses crops, animals, food products, etc.

Need to brand and promote Himalayan Cow Milk: Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU

Palampur 1 June. The milk produced in hills of the State is rich in taste and aroma having huge potential to be branded and promoted as healthy 'Himalayan Cow Milk' said Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University during a webinar on 'World Milk Day' today.

Speaking as a Chief Guest, the Vice-Chancellor said that most of the farmers in hilly areas of state rear animals on naturally growing seasonal pastures and wild vegetations which impart unique aroma and health benefits to the milk in these areas. The milk produced under these conditions is likely to be different from stall fed animals in plains. He told that the University has contributed much for the growth of dairy sector in the state by adopting a holistic approach of integrating research and extension work on animal production.

Prof Chaudhary said that since fodder production is a major factor for sustainable and economical milk production, his University has released 17 improved fodder varieties. Sufficient quantity of seed and seedlings of forage crops were being supplied to farmers and stakeholders. The University has done research on cost effective feed formulations and was supplying different feed formulations and area specific mineral supplements.

The Vice-Chancellor said that training and extension in dairy farming is a major thrust of the University benefitting thousands of farmers. He informed that the University was evaluating the performance of sex sorted semen which will lead to the birth of only female calves. This will help to reduce the problem of male calves and stray animals in near future. He thanked HP Milkfed for agreeing to open its outlet in the University.

Guest of honour Sh Nihal Chand Sharma, Chairman HP Milkfed, said that the Dairy sector has an important role to play in the livelihood generation in H.P. Presently the state has a population of about 18 lakh cattle and 06 lakh buffalo and is producing about 15.31 lakh tones of milk. The per capita availability of milk in the state is 612 gram per day which is better than national average of 407gram per day.

Dr A K Srivastava, Member Agriculture Scientist Recruitment Board, as keynote speaker highlighted the theme of this year's world milk day, 'Sustainability in the dairy sector along with empowering the environment, nutrition and socio-economics'. He underlined the need to educate the masses about the benefits of milk and dairy products. He said that dairy supports the livelihood of one billion people around the globe. Dr.Rajbir Singh, Director, Agriculture Technology Assessment and Refinement Institute said that the country was largest producer of milk in the world. Dr.Mandeep Sharma, Dean, COVAS, Dr P.K.Dogra, Head of the Department and Dr.Rakesh Thakur also spoke on the importance of World Milk Day. The webinar was organised by the Department of Livestock Production Management. Some Krishi Vigyan Kendras also organised webinars involving progressive dairy farmers of their respective districts

Vice-Chancellor Prof.H.K.Chaudhary expressed satisfaction on enforcement of Covid-19 guidelines in the University

Palampur 25 May. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University, has expressed his satisfaction that there was not even a single Covid-19 positive among the 240 hostellers in the University. He appreciated Dr.V.K.Gupta, Students� Welfare Officer and all wardens for strictly enforcing Covid-19 guidelines and asked them to keep the vigil high during a meeting held through virtual mode here today.

The Vice-Chancellor, after getting feedback about each hostel from the wardens, asked the Deans to make a surprise check, interact with students and resolve their day to day issues. He also asked wardens to visit hostels once or twice daily. Prof Chaudhary directed Estate Officers to carry on repair and other construction work at an enhanced pace to finish the work as per fixed deadlines. He said that hostel repair works should also be taken up immediately. He said that surprise check on night watchmen be made.

Registrar, SWO, all Deans, Estate Officer and hostel wardens attended the virtual meeting.

CSKHPAU Bee Research Station to be upgraded as 'Bee Heritage Farm': Vice-Chancellor Prof.H.K.Chaudhary

Palampur 20 May. 'World Honeybee Day' was celebrated through virtual mode at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

While addressing over 200 scientists, experts, officers, beekeepers and students, Chief Guest Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, exhorted that this year's theme, 'Bee engaged- built back better for bees' should be the spirit to conserve honey bees for the future of mankind. Prof H.K.Chaudhary said that the University will make efforts to upgrade its Bee Research Station, Nagrota Bagwan which was established in 1936 as 'Bee Heritage Farm' equipped with all modern research and teaching facilities. He said that this station has landmark contributions like promoting indigenous Apis cerana and exotic Apis mellifera beekeeping as the self-sustaining and rewarding avocation to the farming community.

The Vice-Chancellor said that natural honey extracted in Himachal Pradesh was organic in nature and of medicinal value. He said that honey processing and certification before marketing can help farmers to sell their organic honey on premium price. He suggested up-scaling the production of unique high medicinal value 'white honey' 'katha honey' 'wild thyme honey' and litchi honey with GI indicator label. Prof Chaudhary said that in addition to stationary beekeeping, efforts should be made to motivate the bee keepers, especially the young farmers to adopt it on commercial scale to have a large scale impact. This will bring another Amber Revolution or Honey Kranti. He suggested targeted technological interventions for enhancing bee production, reducing the cost of production, ensuring premium price of honey and other hive products and income employment diversification using beekeeping as an ancillary enterprises. He also suggested conservation of Indigenous honeybee as it was an excellent pollinator under inclement weather and stress conditions.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary told that to commemorate Golden Jubilee of H.P. Statehood, this day was planned at Bee Research Station of the University at Nagrota Bagwan in a big way but the prevailing situation has compelled to organise it in a virtual mode only.

Guest of honour Dr.S.K.Malhotra, National Commissioner, Agriculture Production, Govt of India appreciated the University for its research and extension work on honey bees and suggested branding of quality honey for fetching more income to the bee keepers. He declared that honey testing lab will be sanctioned to the University in near future in addition to an integrated bee development centre. He asked the University to submit proposals on it. He also underlined the importance of purity of honey and multi-flora honey.

Dr.R.C.Mishra, retired known bee scientist, delivered a keynote address. He told that at present, there were about 3.5 million bee colonies of native Apis cerana and exotic Apis mellifera maintained in traditional and modern beehives in India producing above 125 thousand metric ton of honey. He said that bee colonies number is decreasing and needs to be conserved and increased.

Dr.D.K.Vatsa, Director of Research, underlined the importance of this day and told that annual honey production in the state was about 5.5 thousand metric tons. Dr.Madhumeet Singh, Director of Extension Education told that the bee keeping has always been an integral part of all farm trainings and Dr.R.K.Kataria, Dean, College of Agriculture, said that different geographical pockets have diverse flora with tremendous potential for entrepreneurial and stationary beekeeping.

Dr.R.S.Chandel, Head, Deptt. of Entomology, in his welcome address said that honeybees were indispensable for humanity. Dr.Surinder Kumar Sharma, Scientist Incharge, Bee Research Station, informed that the state was a hub of beekeepers and beekeeping was practiced in more than five thousand villages which provide full and part time employment to over three lakh people. Experts and some progressive bee keepers like Satish Kumar, Parbhat Chand, Bhagwan Das, Arun, Daulat Ram Raj Kumar ,etc took active part in the discussions.

H.P. farmers to get the option to have only female calves through artificial insemination

Palampur 21 April. The farmers of Himachal Pradesh engaged in cattle rearing and the dairy industry may get an option to have only female calves from their cows. CSK H.P. Agriculture University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Genus ABS India Private Limited, Pune on the use of sexed semen for genetic gain in cattle of Himachal Pradesh, here today.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, told that the new research project holds an immense value in genetic up-gradation of the exotic as well as indigenous breed of cattle being reared in H.P. At the same time, it will help in managing the male stray bulls by reproducing superior progeny of female calves through artificial insemination (A.I.). He said that rapid farm mechanization has undermined the utility of bulls hence bull calves are not seen in use in farming. So, the farmers are neglecting them and many of the male calves die in the first month of their life and others end up as abandoned. Prof. Chaudhary said that it was a very unique project scientifically as it will produce results about important parameters like milk production and genetic potential in the progeny.

He said that the University is known for its quality research benefiting the farming community. He expressed the hope that this high-impact research in the department of veterinary gynaecology for the enhancement of livestock production efficiency will produce results benefiting dairy farmers of the state. He suggested that PG students of the University be involved in the labs of the eighty-year-old GABS India Ltd.

Dr. Madhumeet Singh, Director Extension Education told that this is the first-ever organized study being undertaken regarding the use of sexed semen in the State. It will be operated in two phases over a period of 18 months. In the first phase 100 farmers rearing Jersey cows and Sahiwal, an indigenous breed of cows, will be benefitted from the project to be carried out at the University. As the sex of calves will be selected at the time of A.I., so the stray cattle menace can also be tackled easily.

On behalf of the University Dr.D.K.Vatsa, Director of Research, Dr. Akshay Sharma, Principal Investigator, and Dr. Pravesh Kumar, Co-Principal Investigator of the project from the department of veterinary gynaecology, and on behalf of the Genus ABS India Private Limited Dr. Arvind Gautam, Managing Director and Shri Rahul Gupta, Head Operations, signed the MoU through virtual mode. Dr. Gautam expressed the hope that the project results will bring prosperity to the farmers. He said that the company will allow the University students to work in the state-of-the-art labs and come out with cutting-edge technologies.

Shri Pankaj Sharma, HAS, Registrar was also present during the MoU signing ceremony.

Let the slogan 'Swachh Neer, Swasth Shreer' reverberate among the people of State to rejuvenate water bodies

Palampur 20 April. "All peoples, whatever their stage of development and social and economic condition, have the right to have access to drinking water in quantities and of a quality equal to their basic needs", opined Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor was expressing his views after inaugurating Water Quality and Testing lab facility in the Department of Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology in the University. Prof Chaudhary underlined the importance of safe quality water in the protection of human health and well-being. He appreciated that the Rotary Club and Farm Technocrat Forum, Palampur have joined hands to help the University in water testing facility and involving local people in the new initiative. He urged that the water quality in the Palampur and immediate surrounding areas be tested and water profiling be done so that the residents are made aware of the importance of clean drinking water. The findings and recommendations of research scientists should be shared with people, stakeholders and policymakers for proper management of water resources and for curtailing deterioration of water quality in the region. The technical advisory for treatment of water to make it drinkable should also be provided.

The Vice-Chancellor said that the slogan, "Swachh Neer, Swasth Shreer" (Clean water, Healthy Body) should reverberate among the people of the State to rejuvenate water bodies. He also spoke on the importance of water conservation and maintenance of water sources. He said that there was a time when people used to drink water directly from the source as people used to treat water very sacred and kept areas around water sources neat and clean. Now the human greed has polluted our traditional water sources like natural water springs, rivers, etc. The Vice-Chancellor also appreciated the humanitarian efforts and services of the Rotary Club all over the world.

Dr.Mandeep Sharma, Dean, Dr.G.C.Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Science, told that rapid urbanization and industrialization has affected the Physico-chemical parameters and biological attributes of the ground and surface water in Himachal Pradesh. The occurrence of various kinds of pollutants contaminating most of the drinking water sources is an emerging issue in the state.

Dr A.K.Panda, Head, Department of Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology told that water testing has been going on earlier but with the support of Rotary Club and FTF, service will reach more users. Dr Adarsh Kumar, President, Rotary Club, Palampur told that the club will be supported by Farm Technocrat Forum in ensuring the safety of drinking water in the Palam valley. The common man will be provided with the facility of getting the drinking water samples tested from the lab for physicochemical and microbiological quality. He also provided 100 masks and sanitisers to the University dairy workers. Dr B.C.Awasthy, President, Farm Technocrat Forum said that his forum will extend liberal financial help to the University in this new endeavour.

Besides, the University scientists, members of the Rotary Club and FTF also attended the function.

CSKHPAU to resolve problems of Gaddi farmers in rearing sheep, goat and dogs on priority: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 18 April. "CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University is committed to scientifically study the problems of Gaddi farmers in rearing sheep, goat and dogs and resolve these on priority" assured Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, while interacting with a progressive Gaddi farmer, here today. The Vice-Chancellor, during his regular visit to fodder production farm of the Department of Livestock Farm Complex met Shri Barfi Ram who was camping there in a transit camp along with his flock of 450 Gaddi goats on way to Lahaul.

The Vice-Chancellor was happy to learn that the flock was adopted by the Department of Livestock Farm Complex under All India Coordinated Research Project on Gaddi Goats improvement. Prof Chaudhary said that as the pastures were shrinking so it was tough for Gaddi community to rear sheep and goats. He informed that the University has proven technology to rejuvenate pasture and meadows with improved grasses and was providing it to the department of forests, NGOs and farmers.

Sh. Barfi Ram informed that the technical assistance and guidance by the University scientists have been able to increase the production potential and to reduce the kid and lamb mortality rate. The entire flock has been vaccinated today and at proper intervals which helps in disease control.

The Vice-Chancellor, while appreciating Dr.P.K.Dogra, Head of the department and his team asked them to increase fodder production by cultivating the entire farm area for preparation of silage and feeding green fodder to the dairy animals. Shri Pankaj Sharma, HAS, Registrar; Er. Vikas Sood, Estate Officer and other scientists were present on the occasion.

CSKHPAU has taken effective steps to implement New Education Policy: Prof H.K.Chaudahry,VC

Palampur 17 April. To train the teachers in utilizing various online platforms for online teaching, an orientation workshop was organized at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, said that in the prevailing situation when there were disruptions in regular classes, the relevance of online legal teaching platforms like MS Teams where more than 100 participants can join together without loss of data should be utilized properly. He said that as a teacher, he has been using this platform successfully during lockdown last year and afterwards. He said that the University has taken several effective steps to implement New Education Policy 2020 and online teaching, smart classroom, creation of Information Communication Technology Cell, award of degrees through Digi Locker, etc were some of the steps taken for its implementation. He said that digitization of the University was underway which will enable hassle-free communication within and among different organs of the University like Research Stations, Krishi Vigyan Kendras situated throughout the state.

Dr R.K.Kataria, Dean, College of Agriculture said that the training has been organized to remove doubts and enhance the skill of users. He said that all students have been provided with login ids for joining MS Teams. Only registered students can join a particular class by using the code provided by the concerned teacher. This will avoid unauthorized persons having access and create any disturbance in the system. Hence training was necessary.

The Vice-Chancellor appreciated Dr.R.K.Kataria, Dean College of Agriculture for the initiative and Dr Shivani Katoch, Shri Kapil Sharma and Shri Vaibhav Kalia from the ICT cell for imparting training.

Not even a single Covid-19 positive case in the University: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 13 April.Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University held a Press conference, here today. He expressed anguish at the fake news circulating in the web portal of a prominent Hindi newspaper alleging that the "University has been closed due to 250 corona positive students."

The Vice-Chancellor informed the media that there was not even a single Covid-19 positive case in the University and the news was fabricated and completely false. He said that the University has been strictly following Covid-19 protocol and instructions of the State Government for the safety of students, staff and residents at the campus.

Prof Chaudhary said that his was the only University in the State to start vaccination of its staff and in the last three days 260 vaccine doses have been administered to the staff at the university health centre. The vaccination drive with the active support of Chief Medical Officer, Kangra will continue till 14 April. Similarly, the University had taken initiative for getting its students and staff tested for Covid-19. The University had even extended support to the local administration by providing a space for isolation facility during lockdown last year. Still a top floor of the hostel has been made an isolation facility for emergency purpose.

He assured the parents of students and all staff members that the University will maintain utmost vigil and will follow all health advisories for the safety of its students and staff to check the spread of pandemic in the campus.

Shri Pankaj Sharma, HAS, Registrar requested the press to cross check the information related to the University, especially such news which create unnecessary panic and sensation. He told that CMO Kangra has been extending all support to the University Health Centre for training the staff for testing and vaccination. He told that emergency services in the university like dairy, clinics, electricity, sanitation, security services, etc continue to function under all situations including holidays. The University has banned the entry of unauthorized persons to the campus to keep students and staff safe from outsiders during the prevailing situation.

Dr.V.K.Gupta, Studnets' Welfare Officer, Dr.Hirday Paul Singh, Jt. Director( Information & PR) and around a dozen reporters from print and electronic media were present in the Press Conference.

Palampur 12 April. "The students will be provided with all requisite quality facilities so that they excel in life", this was announced by Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

During his maiden meeting with the representatives of five Students' Central Associations of the constituent colleges, the Vice-Chancellor said a large number of world-class facilities have been envisaged and work has also been initiated so that the University clients-the students and farmers- are able to utilize their capabilities to the optimum level. The Vice-Chancellor said that a high-level meeting with SCA members will be held twice in a semester and all genuine issues and problems of the students will be resolved on priority. He directed wardens to daily visit all hostels and resolve day to day trivial issues. Similarly, the Deans and Directors should also frequently make surprise visits to the hostels and other student activity areas like the library, sports complex, gymnasium, etc. He expected the students to follow the rules and regulations scrupulously and asked them to be respectful towards their teachers, managements and follow the rich values and culture for which this University is known all over the country. Prof Chaudhary also asked them to bring laurels to the University with working hard smartly. He said that battery-operated vehicles will be introduced in the University to facilitate better transportation to the students and staff in the widespread campus.

Prof Chaudhary disclosed that the University is in the process of fast digitization and using Information Technology for serving the clients in an effective manner. He told that the University website is getting a facelift to make it user-friendly and social media use is being increased to serve the clients with useful information. He also spoke on the status of the National Academic Depository for degree dissemination through Digilocker App. He told that the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-based academic management system will be included in the university academic management system. The Vice-Chancellor also discussed the status of a blended model of teaching and virtual interaction via different platforms and future plans as per New Education Policy. Prof H.K.Chaudhary also discussed issues like online counselling, admissions through national level tests, etc. The Vice-Chancellor also detailed other recent efforts of the University for the welfare of students.

Shri Pankaj Sharma, HAS, Registrar, informed the students about major laws related to drugs, traffic violation, etc and asked them to be careful about their safety within and outside the campus. He told that the University security system has been adequately strengthened and security personnel will be provided with headgear cameras soon. Dr.V.K.Gupta, Students' Welfare Officer, also elaborated about the new proposed facilities in hostels and under "Khelo India" campaign, etc. All the SCA representatives detailed all major issues and problems and asked the authorities to stop the entry of unauthorised persons in the University campus.

Deans Dr.R.K.Kataria, Dr. Satish Pal Dr.Y.S. Dhaliwal and Dr Anita Singh, Directors Dr. D.K.Vatsa and Dr. Madhumeet Singh, Librarian Dr Suresh Gautam and Estate Officer Er.Vikas Sood also attended the meeting.

CSKHPAU to extend mobile advisory services to the Gaddi farmers during migration: Vice Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhary

Palampur 9 April. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University has told that his University was planning to extend mobile advisory services to the gadddis during migration. He was interacting with goat farmers after distribution of 19 superior Gaddi breeding bucks to 19 different progressive goat framers of the state.

Professor H.K. Chaudhary said that these breeding bucks are being provided to the farmers with the objectives to bring about overall breed improvement of the existing Gaddi goats under migratory production system. He told that the scientists of the Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Dr.G C Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (COVAS) have raised these bucks after two stages of selection and scientific management. They are free from any disease which can be transmitted to progeny through the bucks causing heavy economic losses to the farmers. He advised them to fully utilize the potential of these breeding bucks because these superior bucks will pass on desired production traits in the progeny and ultimately will improve the income of farmers. He also congratulated the project team for their hard work under migratory field conditions for the benefit of tribal people.

The Vice-Chancellor told that Gaddi goat meat was of high quality as the goats feed on wild vegetation in high altitude areas free from any chemical use in such grazing lands. He asked the scientists to help the Gaddi nomads in marketing of quality meat. The Vice-Chancellor also elaborated about various welfare schemes of the Govt for Gaddi farmers and said that an elaborated programme on Gaddi farmers will be organised during the Golden Jubilee of H.P. Statehood.

Dr. Mandeep Sharma, Dean, COVAS emphasized the utility of the project to the farmers. Dr. M.M. Singh, Director Extension Education, highlighted the role of breeding bucks for improving the overall productivity of flock Dr. P.K. Dogra, Head of the Department Livestock Farm Complex told that the ongoing All India Coordinated Research Project on Goat Improvement is being implemented under the umbrella of Central Institute for Research on Goats at Makhdoom, Mathura. Till date more than 250 superior breeding bucks have been provided to the farmers. He told that more than 1600 pure Gaddi goats were being monitored under the project. The project was being implemented under the migratory field conditions by providing strategic breeding, feeding and health control inputs.

Dr Sandeep Mishra, Assistant Director, Animal Husbandry and project team members Drs Nishant Verma, Principal Investigator, Ankaj Thakur, Madhu Suman and Praveen Sharma were also present on this occasion.

Natural farming has great potential in some crops: Prof H.K.Chaudhary,VC, CSKHPAU

Palampur 6 April A review meeting on Natural Farming was organized at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, while chairing the meeting told that natural farming (NF) has great potential in traditional crops, millets, minor millets, pulses, some vegetable and other crops. Some farmers are excited to adopt this type of farming as they see good future in it. He said that Prakritik Kheti Khushahal Scheme was becoming popular among farmers. The Vice-Chancellor informed that scientific evaluation of NF was underway in his university and three years data will be available next year. The Vice-Chancellor said that university 'Package of Practices' have been advocating using farm yard manure(FYM) in addition to balanced use of chemical fertilizers but many farmers have stopped using FYM adversely affecting soil health.

He said that minor millets, pulses and some other traditional crops like buckwheat do not require any chemical fertilizer so such crops should be advocated under NF. He also advocated growing pulses which also do not need many fertilizers. "We should move in an integrated way for the benefit of the farming community of the state", he suggested. He said that organic matter lying in the mountain soils can be utilized for NF. The Vice-Chancellor also elaborated on some concrete proposal to galvanise academic research and extension activities to raise the status of the university to the international level. He told that 51 programmes have been planned to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of H.P. Statehood which include Swarn Jayanti Mahil Krishak Mela.

Shri Rakesh Kanwar, IAS, State Project Director, Subhash Palekar Natural Farming (SPNF) project, said that the university was doing excellent work for the Himalayan region. He said that the scientists need to guide the farming community on NF also. He told that 1.20 lakh farmers have started practising NF in various crops all over the state. Since some farmers were doing excellent work on it so the researchers and students can study it in the fields. Shri Kanwar said that soil quality and health, water conservation, etc has changed much after green revolution but many exciting things are happening in the farmers' fields and suggested alternative model like NF.

He disclosed that it was the intervention of Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor in the pre-budget meeting that for the first time Rs. 5.00 crore has been granted as budget grant to both farm universities for research purposed. He asked the scientists to show the results so that this grant keeps on increasing every year. He said that the Govt has introduced Swaran Jayanti Beej Smvardhan Yojna and the university should help in conservation of seeds of traditional crop varieties. He expected university to come out with comprehensive farmer oriented policy framework to enhance the income of the farmers.

Shri Pawnesh Sharma, Additional Chief Conservator of Forests and Dr. Rajeshwar Chandel, Executive Director, SPNF, also expressed their views. Shri Pankaj Sharma, Registrar; Shri Gurmeet Singh, Comptroller; Dr. Madhumeet Singh, Director of Extension Education, Dr.R.K.Kataria, Dean, College of Agriculture, Dr.Satish Pal, Dean Post Graduate Studies, Dr Suresh Gautam, Librarian and some heads and scientists also attended the meeting.

Palampur 3 April. The Vice-Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University has ordered that all under-graduate and post graduate classes of the constituent colleges will remain suspended till 15 April in compliance with the orders of the state government. Any examination or other academic activity fixed earlier will take place as per schedule and online teaching will continue. All staff members will attend the duties. The students staying in hostels can leave with proper permission but will have to submit RT-PCR negative report while joining back. The students staying in hostels need to follow all SoPs and wardens will be compliance officers.

The Vice-Chancellor has further ordered that the continuing students other than first year students and B.V.Sc. & AH will register for second semester from 5 April to 7 April with late fee by filling the format of online registration form available at the university website. They need to submit the scanned copy alongwith requisite fee to be deposited online to the comptroller's account. All relevant details are available on the university website.

Last round of counselling to fill up the vacant seats for B.Sc(Hons) Agriculture will be conducted physically as per schedule on 6 April.

R.5.00 crore research fund by the H.P. Govt. to boost research : Prof H.K.Chaudhary, VC, CSKHPAU

Palampur 27 March. A farewell function was organized in honour of Dr N.K.Badhan, Director of Agriculture,H.P. who is superannuating on 31 March, at CSK H.P. Agriculture University here today.

Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, while honouring Dr Badhan, who is an alumnus of the University, said that it was a matter of pride to the University as its many illustrious alumni are occupying positions of prestige in the state, country and many foreign countries. The Vice-Chancellor expressed his gratitude to the State Government, especially the Chief Minister, for creating a Rs. 5.00 crore research fund for both farm universities. He said that his proposal in the State Planning Board meeting held in February was kindly considered by the Chairman and it will give impetus to the research efforts for the benefit of farming community of Himachal Pradesh.

He appreciated the retiring Director of Agriculture for maintaining liaison with the University and extending all possible support to the University in transfer of technology to the farmers. He appreciated him for his humility and cooperative nature.

Dr.N.K.Badhan, expressed his gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor for this unique initiative to honour its retiring alumnus. He appreciated the academic, research and extension education achievements of the University which have enabled the state to become self sufficient on food front and winning many agriculture awards at the National level.

Dr.R.K.Kataria, Dean, College of Agriculture and Dr.D.K.Vatsa, Director of Research also spoke on the qualities of Dr Badhan. Besides wife and son of Dr.N.K.Badhan, all statutory officers were present in the farewell function.

Farm technology will be made available at farmers' doorstep: Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU

Palampur 24 March. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University continued its newly initiated tradition of organizing a Scientific Advisory Committee meeting amidst farmers as Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Dhaulakuan(Sirmour) held its programme in Kanshipur village today.

Sitting on the ground, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor chaired the meeting and later addressed the farmers in an interaction programme. He said that he is determined to bring university research work and technology to the farmers' doorstep in the nook and corner of Himachal Pradesh. In such programmes, besides extension specialists of the concerned KVK, Deans, Directors, head of departments and scientists of various departments participate. They freely interact with the farmers, listen to their farm-related issues and answer their questions related to agriculture, veterinary science, home science, etc.

The Vice-Chancellor spoke on the importance of animal husbandry and university initiatives in preservation and conservation of local breeds. He discussed problems of farm produce marketing in remote and less accessible areas and assured the farmers to take up such issues with the government. Prof Chaudhary said that his university has taken several initiatives to make its policies and programmes farmer-centric. Contributions of progressive farmers have been highlighted in a Golden Jubilee Farmers' Gallery in the university and all KVKs have also displayed photographs of such farmers on their premises. He said that real brand ambassadors of the university research and technology were such farmers as they share it with fellow farmers and help them increase their yields and income. He highlighted the rich agro-diversity in the state and university efforts to get geographical indicators for traditional crops of different regions.

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor inaugurated an exhibition of farm produce and appreciated the work by NGOs for women empowerment. He also honoured 18 progressive farmers of the Sirmour district including Kundan Singh Shastri, Ram Bhaj Chauhan, Rakesh Kumar, Chaman Lal, Ravi Swarup, Harjit Singh, Piyusha, etc. Prof Chaudhary also planted a sapling of 'Chandan' at KVK premises.

Dr.Madhumeet Singh, Director of Extension Education, said that due to high variation in altitude varying from 400 meters at Paonta Saheb to 3700 meters at Chuhardhar, agriculture was much diversified in Sirmour district enabling farmers to produce a variety of agriculture and horticulture crops. He also elaborated about various extension education-related activities Deans Dr.Mandeep Sharma, Dr.R.K.Kataria and Dr.Y.S.Dhaliwal informed the participants about the academic and other activities of their colleges. Heads and some scientists also interacted with farmers and many of their questions were also answered in the 'Question-Answer Session.'

Dr.Sukhdev Singh Paliyal, Programme Coordinator, KVK, Dhaulakuan detailed major activities and future plans.Some progressive farmers also expressed their views and expressed gratitude to Prof H. K Chaudhary for giving due honour to them.

Palampur 23 March. IDBI Bank has selected Medini Raj, Ayushi Sharma, Bhanu Sharma, Gunjan Kondal and Nitin Chandel, all students of CSK H.P. Agriculture University as Assistant Managers through a rigorous selection process as 34 students participated in the selection process.

Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor has congratulated the selected students, their parents and teachers.

Palampur 18 March. To celebrate the Golden Jubilee of H.P.Statehood, the Scientific Advisory Committee meeting of KVK Bara (Hamirpur) was held on 18 March. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor of the University chaired the meeting and Farmer-Scientist interactions programme at Bhardhyan village in Distt. Hamirpur, here today. During the programme, the Vice-Chancellor said that to commemorate Golden Jubilee of H.P. Statehood, farmer-scientist interactions have been started in villages and it was his dream to discuss all farmer issues sitting with farmers in their farms or homes. He was committed to provide all technological assistance to each and every farmer of the State. The Vice-Chancellor also elaborated about the new initiatives where farmer has become a centre of all plans in his University. Prof Chaudhary also honoured some progressive farmers and called them brand ambassadors of the University for spreading useful farm knowledge among other farmers of their area. Dr. Madhumeet Singh, Director of Extension Education, told that during Golden Jubilee of the Statehood, more than 3000 farmers will be trained by the University at Palampur and all KVKs. He also asked the farmers to maintain a live link with the scientists and farm officers for timely farm inputs and advice. Dr. Pradeep Kumar, Programme Coordinator of the KVK, detailed about the activities of his KVK and proposed action plan for the ensuing crop seasons. Progressive farmers and officers from the state departments of agriculture, animal husbandry, industry, banks, etc also actively participated in the meeting. The famers who were honoured by the Chief Guest Prof HK Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor of the farm varsity included Reena Chandel, Sudesh kumari, Nimmo Devi, Seema Devi, Reshma Devi, Anjana Kumari, Kusum Lata, Munish Kumar, Baljit Sandhu and Captain Madan Lal. Statutory officers, heads of the departments and scientists were also present in the programmes. During farmer-scientists interaction, heads of the departments from the University answered questions of farmers. Pradhan of the local Panchayat Smt. Reeta Sandhu thanked university authorities to organize the SAC meeting and Farmer-Scientist interaction programme amongst the farmers at Bhardhyan village.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU thank Chief Minister for decision on seabuckthron plantation in tribal areas

Palampur 14 March. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University has expressed gratitude to Shri Jai Ram Thakur, Chief Minister, Himachal Pradesh, for taking an important decision of planting sea seabuckthorn in tribal areas of the State.

The Vice-Chancellor said that seabuckthorn locally known as 'Chharma' is a wonder plant known for improving ecology and used by the tribal farmers for its medicinal properties. The farmers also use it as fodder for their animals and also as fuel wood. Prof Chaudhary told that his university has done substantial research work on this wild plant and has introduced some high yielding varieties which can give better yields to feed the industry to produce several products like juices, jams and other consumable domestic products. "With the decision of the Govt of H.P. to plant seabuckthron on 250 hectare area in Lahaul, Spiti and Kinnaur, the hard working farmers will be greatly benefitted" said Vice-Chancellor.

Prof. Chaudhary told that his university has implemented over a dozen research projects. The results have been encouraging on the standardization of faster method of propagation, control of diseases and pests and development of fruit harvesters. The University has also developed 16 seabuckthorn value added food products and 7 animal and poultry feeds. The research work has also been done for the development agents for exploiting medicinal values of this plant like wound healing, skin diseases and gastric ulcer.

The Vice-Chancellor informed that the University scientists will train the field staff of Departments of Forest and Horticulture in the modern techniques of propagation, plantation and management of seabuckthorn in tribal areas of the state. He said that, already, a multidisciplinary team of scientists have been formed to expedite research and extend all technical support to the Govt. of H.P. to implement the announcement of the Chief Minister.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, lays foundation stone of Rs. 45 lakh Students' Centre

Palampur 08 March. "The college of agriculture in CSK H.P. Agriculture University will have a world-class students' centre within next 100 days", declared Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, after laying the foundation stone of this centre worth Rs. 45 lakh, here today.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary said that he had a blazing dream to provide world-class facilities in the University and he was committed to realize it with his all might. "Whenever I visited any top foreign university I always thought to I am fully committed to help the students to excel in academics and other areas with whatever I can", said Prof Chaudhary.

The Vice-Chancellor asked the students to create a congenial environment for attaining an international status to the University by bagging large number of fellowships and scholarships. He told that many students' friendly decisions have been taken recently including enhancing the scholarship and fellowship amounts. They have been asked to create awareness about the university and new technology in the nook and corner of the state for which they will be suitably rewarded. He said that some International collaboration were in the offing and today's students were future scientists. He asked them to publish their research work in international journals and bring name and fame to alma mater with new innovations. He also asked them to give due respect to their teachers and follow rules and regulations.

Dr.R.K.Katraria, Dean, College of Agriculture thanked the Vice-Chancellor for sanctioning many facilities worth Rs. 71 lakh including a musical fountain, upgraded canteen, etc. He told that the new students' centre will have eight shops for documentation work, cafeteria, juice bar; daily needs shop, etc. and will be open 24x7.

Er. Vikas Sood, Estate Officer assured the Vice-Chancellor to make students' centre functional within 100 days.

Dr.Suresh Upadhyay and Mr. Tarun Kapur, a third-year student also spoke on the occasion. All statutory officers, heads, scientists and students were present on the occasion.

CSKHAPU & CCSHAU to sign MoU for student and faculty Exchange :Prof. H.K.Chaudhary,Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 06 March. CSK H.P. Agriculture University and CCS Haryana Agricultural University (HAU) have decided to sign a Memorandum of Understanding for students' and faculty exchange. This was announced by Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor said that his University has strength and edge in many areas like High-Tech Molecular Cytogenetics and tissue culture, double haploidy breeding, organic and natural farming, horticulture, beekeeping, shitake mushroom, micropropagation techniques, climate change and animal vector born diseases, veterinary ophthalmology, veterinary diagnostic imaging etc and HAU has excellence in several research areas and also in agricultural business incubation, extension education especially in seed village programme, etc. The proposed MoU will do well to the farmers and students of both states and will be a step towards empowering them with the right knowledge and technology. He said that as per the new education policy such collaborations were mandatory for the higher education institutes.

Prof Chaudhary said that it was agriculture that saved the economy during the pandemic and many highly qualified youngsters who lost jobs in the last year were approaching him to adopt farming. He has directed all Krishi Vigya Kendras to extend all technical support to such people. He exhorted farm scientists to work with a mission to bring bread to the table of hungry and share their knowledge liberally considering all the human race as one.

Dr.A.K.Chhbara, Dean, College of Agriculture, HAU, delivered a talk on "Flower to DNA- the evolution of contemporary plant breeding." He dedicated his website authorstream.com with 645 uploads and two crore views to Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor and also handed over all high-quality PowerPoint presentations in a pen drive to him. He also briefed about the major achievements of HAU.

Dr.D.K.Vatsa, Director of Research; Dr.Madhumeet Singh, Director of Extension Education; Dr.Satish Paul, Dean, Post Graduate Studies, heads, scientists and students attended the programme.

Veterinary Clinical Complex to be made a centre of excellence: Prof. H.K.Chaudhary,Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 26 February. "Veterinary Clinical Complex in Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences(COVAS) in the University will be made a centre of excellence", informed Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University while interacting with media persons, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor said that Advanced Veterinary Multispecialty Complex in the COVAS was known for providing specialized and super specialized multispecialty public - outreach clinical services to the sick and ailing animals from all over the State. Efforts have been initiated to make it a Centre of Excellence by augmenting more technical and other facilities. Prof. Chaudhary appreciated the scientists and students who were providing services to farmers in the areas of Animal Reproduction, Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Surgery. Uninterrupted clinical services were offered even during the COVID pandemic.He said that a prompt treatment is often preceded by equally effective diagnostic laboratory services in the College Clinics extended by the Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Veterinary Parasitology and Veterinary Pathology. Prof Chaudhary told that shortly a veterinary medical outlet will be set up in the COVAS to provide medicines at discounted rates. Some facilities for the farmers, bringing their animals for the treatment, will also be provided

Dr.Mandeep Sharma, Dean, told that the Veterinary Clinical Complex has 17 experts and specialists and Internees, Postgraduates and Ph.D - students from different departments form an integral part of the process of animal care and clinical assistance. In addition, the undergraduate students of 3rd and 4th year of B.V.Sc. & A.H also have access to the clinical practice. He told that during the financial year 2020-21, a total of 8500 cases of small and large animals were treated by various clinical departments. Approximately 6000 clinical samples were also processed for diagnosis of various ailments in the clinical diagnostic laboratory of this department. More than 1000 animals were treated for various diseases.

Prof. Pankaj Sood, Head, Veterinary Clinical Complex, informed that besides, direct clinical services, a number of consultancies are also provided regularly to the veterinarians from the State Animal Husbandry Department and the farmers across the State. Dr.Madhumeet Singh, Director of Extension Education, Drs.Desh Raj and Adarsh Kumar were also present during the visit. The media persons interacted with scientists, students and farmers also.

Science, technology & innovations have contributed much for the welfare of mankind: Prof. H.K.Chaudhary,Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU

Palampur 22 February. Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University has said that the science, technology and innovations have contributed tremendously for the welfare of mankind.

The Vice-Chancellor was addressing students and scientists after inaugurating National Science Day celebrations in the College of Basic Sciences(COBS) in the University, here today. The Vice-Chancellor said that the science has elevated the standards of life to great height and asked the students and scientists to apply science with wisdom in their day-to-day life for future innovations. He said that Noble laureate Dr. Chander Shekhar Venkataraman, on his birth anniversary this week is celebrated in the country, was a role model for all and we should try to imbibe his virtues to inculcate scientific temperament. He told that the university will be inviting top scientists including noble laureates in future so that the students and scientists may get opportunities to interact with them.

Dr. (Mrs.) Anita Singh, Dean, College of Basic Science, Dr. Sharda Singh, Coordinator and Dr.Ranbir Singh Rana, covenor also expressed their views. Prof. OSK Shastri from Central University, H.P. delivered a special lecture.

Around fifty students from the College of Basic Science participated in various competitions to mark the occasion. In declamation contest Samrit Sharma got first prize and Vanshika got second prize, in poster making Kareena Verma got first prize and Nikita secured second prize. Two consolation prizes went to Khushi and Rashika Parmar. In quiz competition, team of Sahil Bharti and Pallavi Thakur got first position, team of Mitali Patial and Pallavi Thakur got second position and in the power point presentation. Akriti got first position and Aryan Sood stood Second .Statutory officers and heads of department were also present on the occasion.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. H.K.Chaudhary asks farmers to adopt climate smart agriculture

Palampur 22 February. "Farmers need to accept the challenges due to climate change and adopt climate smart agriculture", advised Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University while addressing farmers during an interaction programme and chairing a Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) meeting of Krishi Vigyan Kendra(KVK), Bajaura at Mohal near Kullu, today.

The Vice-Chancellor said that his University was empowering the farmers to accept the new challenges thrown open by climate change and advising them to adopt strategies like using crop varieties which are suited to adverse climate conditions, better use of resources and raising crops and animals in the regions where they grow the best. He said that scientists can help the farmers in formulating suitable strategies for climate resilient agro practices and technologies. He said that during pandemic, agriculture has proved that it was backbone of the Indian economy. He appreciated the Kullu farmers for crop diversification, off season vegetable production, nursery raising and fruit production. "The progressive farmers are increasing their income by adopting enterprises like bee-keeping, mushroom cultivation and poultry and other farmers should also come forward to emulate them and adopt integrated farming system to generate additional income", opined Prof H.K.Chaudhary. He also underlined the importance of cold water fish as a delicacy and the University efforts to study its adaptability in pond conditions.

The Vice-Chancellor also inaugurated an exhibition of farm produce and honored 16 progressive farmers of the district Kullu with a Kulu cap and citation.

Dr.Madhumeet Singh, Director of Extension Education, spoke on the importance of animal husbandry, major problems of the cattle and need to increase animal production. He highlighted extension education activities and asked farmers to solve their farming and animal husbandry related problems by contacting KVK scientists. Dr.Mandeep Sharma, Dean, College of Veterinary Science, Dr.D.K.Vatsa, Director of Research and Dr.Y.S.Dhaliwal, Dean, College of Community Science also addressed the farmers.

Dr.K.C.Sharma, Programme Coordinator, detailed major achievements and future plans of his KVK. Progressive farmers also expressed their opinion. During farmer-scientists interaction, scientists from the University answered questions of farmers.

Besides Ishra Thakur, Pardhan, Mohal Panchyat and Rajesh Thakur, BDC Member, district level officers from the state departments of agriculture, animal husbandry, fisheries, industry, banks, etc also participated in SAC and farmer-scientist interaction programme.

The famers who were honoured by the Vice-Chancellor included Veena Bharti, Thakur Dass, Het Ram, Narinder Kumar, Promila Devi, Phoola Devi, Anita Negi, Jaswant Singh, Krishan Sen, Ishra Devi, Mamta Sharma, Kala Devi, Umesh Sood,Tedhi Singh Negi, Aruna Dogra and Banta Ram.

Scientists can come close to farmers by reaching out to them in their farms: Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor,CSKHPAU

Palampur 18 February. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University today started a new tradition in its 42 years history by organizing a Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) meeting in a village amidst farmers. True to his words, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor sat on the ground to chair SAC of Krishi Vigyan Kendra(KVK), Berthin( Bilaspur) at Fagog village in the Jandhuta block in the house of progressive farmer Bharat Bhushan. He said that scientists can come close to the hearts of farmers by reaching out to them on their farms and not sitting pretty in their offices.

The Vice-Chancellor said that to commemorate Golden Jubilee of H.P.Statehood, farmer-scientist interactions have been started in villages from today and it was his dream to discuss all farmer issues sitting with farmers in their farms or homes. He was committed to provide all technological assistance to each and every farmer of the State. The Vice-Chancellor also elaborated about the new initiatives where farmer has become a centre of all plans in his University. He also inaugurated an exhibition of farm produce by the local farmers. Prof Chaudhary also honoured some progressive farmers and called them brand ambassadors of the University for spreading useful farm knowledge among other farmers of their area.

Dr.Rajbir Singh, Director, Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research at Ludhiana assured full technical and financial support for the transfer of technology among farmers at district level.

Dr.Madhumeet Singh, Director of Extension Education, told that during Golden Jubilee of the Statehood, more than 3000 farmers will be trained by the University at Palampur and all KVKs. He also asked the farmers to maintain a live link with the scientists and farm officers for timely farm inputs and advise.

Dr.D.K.Vatsa, Director of Research asked farmers to adopt University developed crop varieties and technologies. Dr.R.K.Kataria, Dean, College of Agriculture, underlined the importance of farm education.

Dr.Suman Kumar, Programme Coordinator, detailed about the activities of his KVK and proposed action plan for the ensuing crop seasons. Progressive farmers and officers from the state departments of agriculture, animal husbandry, industry, fishery, banks, etc also actively participated in the meeting.

During farmer-scientists interaction, Drs. Sudheer Rana, Rakesh Kapila, Akhilesh Sharma, S.K.Upadhyay and Sangita Sood, all heads of the departments from the University answered questions of farmers. Muskan, Chairperson, Zila Parishad, Bilaspur and other elected members of Panchayati Raj institutions welcomed the unique initiative of the University to organize programme in the village sitting with farmers of the district.

Let's work together with dedication, hard work and zeal: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, VC, CSKHPAU

Palampur 16 February. On the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami, Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University performed Pooja of the goddess Saraswati today.

Later, addressing the statutory officers, staff and students, Prof Chaudhary said Maa Saraswati is the goddess of knowledge, wisdom, creative arts, language, learning and purity. He sought the blessing of the goddess for taking forward the University in all spheres of academics, research and extension education. The Vice-Chancellor said that he is determined to transform CSKHPAU to an international level University and asked all to work with complete dedication, hard work and zeal.

He also asked students to seek blessings of Maa Saraswati regularly. Prof H.K.Chaudhary also greeted all on the occasion of Basant Panchami.

Dr.R.K.Kataria, Dean, College of Agriculture and other statutory officers also offered their respects to the goddess in the premises of COA. Sweets were distributed to all present on the occasion.

Golden Jubilee Beekeepers Fair to be organised soon: Prof H.K.Chaudhary,VC, CSKHPAU

Palampur 13 February. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University will organise a 'Golden Jubilee Beekeepers Fair' soon. This was disclosed by Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, while addressing the trainees on the conclusion of Beekeeping Training Programme, here today.

Prof Chaudhary said that avocations like bee keeping provide an additional source of income and some professional bee keepers of the state were role model to others as they have been utilizing rich flora to produce quality honey fetching very good price. He said that due to mixed flora like locally available 'bana' 'gandla' 'basuti', 'safeda', 'tahli' and 'tooni', honey of district Kangra was unique in taste, quality and medicinal value. He asked the trainees to spread the knowledge gained in the training among other farmers also.

The Vice-Chancellor said that his University and the State Department of Horticulture will jointly organise a state level fair of bee-keepers to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of H.P. Statehood at Bee Keeping Research Station, Nagrota Bagwan. He asked them to keep in touch with this research station to solve their all problems related to bee-keeping. The Vice-Chancellor also distributed certificates to 50 trainees.

Dr.Madhumeet Singh, Director of Extension Education told that this six days training was sponsored by the State Department of Horticulture. After the gradual improvement in the pandemic situation, a large number of trainings have been planned observing all SoPs. He also elaborated about other extension activities.

Dr.Desh Raj Chaudhary, Professor; Shri Kamalsheel Negi, Deputy Director Horticulture; Shri Ajay Sangrai, Bee Keeping Development Officer and Shri Neeraj Sharma, Horticulture Development Officer were also present on the occasion.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, expresses grief on the sad demise of Shri Sujan Singh Pathania

Palampur 12 February 2021. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor has expressed grief at the demise of Shri Sujan Singh Pathania, former Agriculture Minister, H.P. The Vice-Chancellor recalled his contributions and concern for the development of agriculture and said that he was keen that traditional crop varieties be conserved.

Two minutes silence was observed in the memory of departed soul during a meeting of the university statutory officers.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancerllor asks farmers to optimize the utilization of farm resources

Palampur 11 February. On his way back from Shimla to Palampur, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor visited KVK, Sundarnagar today. He interacted with the 35 farmer trainees and asked them to adopt new technology developed by the University. The Vice-Chancellor said that it was imperative to adopt farm mechanization and optimize the utilization of all farm resources to increase farm income. He also advocated the balanced use of fertilizers and increased use of organic manures and fertilizers. He also informed them about the new initiatives for farmers and invited them to visit the University. Dr.Pankaj Sood, Programme Coordinator, told that farmers were undergoing NABARD sponsored training on mushroom cultivation from 8-12 February.

College of Agriculture/COVAS abuzz with activities as classes start after ten months

Palampur 04 February. Along with the Tricolor and the University Flag, NCC flag was hoisted at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, here today.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, after performing the NCC flag hoisting and unfurling ceremony, addressed the statutory officers, head of departments, non-teaching staff and NCC cadets. He said that NCC was introduced after the establishment of College of Agriculture in 1966 and he felt elated and privileged to hoist it after 54 years after the introduction of NCC in the institution.

The Vice-Chancellor said that now onwards, the NCC flag will keep reminding the importance of NCC motto of 'Unity and Discipline' to the University staff and all visitors. NCC song "Hum Sab Bharatiya Hain, Hum Sab Bharatiya Hain Apni Manzil Ek Hai�" will keep resonating in the air of campus.

He expressed his satisfaction that equal number of girl and boy cadets have enrolled in the NCC unit of the University and were bringing glory to the institute by regularly qualifying 'C' and 'B' certificates. Some of them have also joined armed forces too. The Vice-Chancellor said that it was a matter of pride the NCC authorities have doubled the University NCC unit strength from 100 to 200, recently. He also appreciated 27 cadets who got 'C' certificates and 35 cadets who got 'B' certificates and was happy that most of the qualified cadets were girls who got 'A' grades in the examination.

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor was received by well dressed NCC Cadets at the Flag Hoisting Stand. Lt. Col B.S.Khandwa, NCC commanding officer 5 HP Company Dharamshala, Col. (Retd.) D.K.S.Chauhan and Dr.Ankur Sharma, NCC officer were also present in the brief but impressive ceremony.

Palampur 1 February. After a gap of almost ten months, training programs for the farmers resumed at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

Last year, due to the announcement of lockdown in the last week of March, ongoing trainings were abruptly closed. Now, with the improvement in the pandemic situation and guidelines of the government, the University resumed trainings following all SoPs.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, has expressed his happiness on the resumption of trainings and appreciated the Directorate of Extension Education and Krishi Vigyan Kendras as training programmes were an essential component of transfer of new farm technology to the farmers. He said that under 'Mukhymantri Nutan Polyhouse Pariyojna', fifty trainings on protected cultivation of vegetable crops will be organized for 1500 farmers of the State in the next twelve months. In addition around fifty trainings on various aspects of agriculture, animal husbandry, mushroom cultivation, poultry, etc will also be organized at the University, besides a number of trainings have also been planned for all eight KVKs.

He said that the University will also start organizing all farm related activities among farmers in their villages and farms. The University has already decided to hold Scientific Advisory Committee meetings of KVKs at the doorstep of farmers, this month.

Dr.Madhumeet Singh, Director of Extension Education told that a batch of 25 farm ladies was attending a six days vocational training on integrated farming with specialization in commercial vegetable production. It has been sponsored by SJVN Ltd. During the inaugural ceremony Drs. Madhumeet Singh, Hirday Paul Singh, D.R.Chaudhary, Vishal Dogra and Luv Bhushan were also present.

Students' stipend to be enhanced considerably: Vice-Chancellor Prof. H.K.Chaudhary

Palampur 26 January. The Republic Day was celebrated with gaiety and enthusiasm at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, unfurled the National Flag and took salute from the NCC contingent of the University. He also inspected the impressive parade by NCC cadets.

Later, while addressing the University community, the Vice-Chancellor remembered the national leaders who adopted the constitution on this day in 1950. He paid glowing tributes to national heroes like Kartar Singh Sarabha and Wazir Singh Pathania who sacrificed their life for the nation. Prof Chaudhary said that his University was moving forward in the service of farming community of Himachal Pradesh. He said that he has pledged to work in an unbiased manner to revolutionise the working and converting the University to a truly international one.

Prof Chaudhary appreciated the students for their dedication, hard work and excellence. He dedicated the celebrations to the students and assured them all facilities to widen their horizons. He told that students scholarships have been enhanced considerably; in many cases to the double from the existing amount. He said that students' strength will be fully integrated in the working of the institution by providing them opportunity of "Earning while learning". "Each and every Ph.D scholar will be encouraged for teaching assignments and will be suitably paid for it", declared Dr H.K.Chaudhary. Prof H.K.Chaudhary asked the students to create awareness about university and its technology in their areas and get paid for it. He promised to resolve all students issues on priority and asked them to walk with him with fast pace so that their future is galvanized.

He informed that the NCC authorities have doubled the University NCC unit strength from 100 to 200, last week. He also appreciated 27 cadets who got 'C' certificates and 35 cadets who got 'B' certificates and was happy that most of the qualified cadets were girls who got 'A' grade in examination.

The Vice-Chancellor appreciated Dr.Vipin Kumar Gupta, Students' Welfare Officer and Dr.Ankur Sharma, NCC officer for the impressive parade.

Patriotic songs were sung and sweets were distributed among all statutory officers, heads of department, scientists, non-teaching staff and students present in the celebrations.

Vice-Chancellor unfurling the National Flag, inspecting the parade, addressing the audience and a view of the audience.

Media Cell मीडिया प्रकोष्ठ

01894-283108, 9418097070 hirdaypaulsingh@gmail.com www: hillagric.ac.in No.QSD/PR/563, Dated: 25 Jan 2021

Press Release प्रैस विज्ञप्ति

Progressive Farmers' Photo Gallery at CSKHAPU: Programme on Golden Jubilee of Statehood of H.P.

Farmers will be first and foremost in University plans: Vice-Chancellor Prof. H.K.Chaudhary

Palampur 25 January. In a rare and unique gesture towards farming community, "Progressive Farmers' Photo Gallery" was inaugurated in CSK H.P. Agriculture University to mark the Golden Jubilee of Statehood of Himachal Pradesh, here today.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, in the presence of progressive farmers, university statutory officers and scientists, asked Smt.Suman Lata, a progressive farm lady from Siholpuri (Shahpur, Kangra) to inaugurate the photo gallery in the University museum.

Later, while addressing them and scientists, Prof Chaudhary said that initially photographs with achievements of 32 farmers from all over the state, including seven farm ladies have been displayed but the number will increase as the farmers get more recognition at international, national or state level. He said that the University Krishi Vigyan Kendras will also display such photos in their premises. He told that innovative farmers and all those farmers who learn, adopt and spread the University technology among other farmers will be suitably got awarded at the State level.

Prof.Chaudhary said that in his plans 'farmers will be first and everything will come next' and it has, already, been decided that all University policies will be farmer centric.

The Vice-Chancellor also elaborated the major achievements of the University after Himachal Pradesh attained full statehood and declared that during this golden Jubilee year, the University will organize function at its all KVKs and research stations. He said that besides policies and programmes of the State Government, his University has contributed tremendously for making the state self sufficient on food front as more than 80 percent area under wheat and paddy was under the improved varieties developed by his University. If the state has earned awards in farming at the national level it was also due to the relevant technologies developed here. He said that each and every area of H.P. was unique in its agro-diversity and the University will preserve, conserve and propagate it scientifically after getting geographical indicators for the traditional crops. He also spoke on the importance of striking a balance between modern farming and natural farming. He said that his teachers were like sages who have spread the light of farm education and produced more than 8600 graduates, post graduates and doctorates who have brought great name and fame to alma mater and state by occupying prestigious positions world over.

Prof.Chaudhary also expressed his gratitude to the Governor and Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh for their support to take forward the University and remembered the contributions of all former Vice-Chancellors and staff also. The Vice-Chancellor honored 20 progressive farmers with a citation, shawl and Himachali cap. He said they were brand ambassadors of the University to extend the technology to nook and corner of every district. He sought cooperation of all to propel growth at high speed to serve the clients more effectively.

Dr.Mandeep Sharma, Dean, Dr.G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, elaborated the progress of state during the last fifty years. Shri. Pankaj Sharma, HAS, Registrar, said that it was historic day to celebrate golden jubilee of the statehood of Himachal Pradesh. He asked all to work hard for the progress of this hill state. Dr.Madhumeet Singh, Director of Extension Education also expressed his views.

Some progressive farmers namely Ajay Rattan,Prem Lal Nadda Jagdish Kumar, Smt. Prem Lata, Bharat Bhushan, Hariman Sharma, Thakur Dass, Narinder Kumar, Jalim Singh, Chander Kant, Smt Suman Lata, Parma Ram, Sanjay Kumar, Pancham Parmar, Smt Sudesh Kumari, Rakesh Kumar, Chaman Lal, Sarbjit Singh, Smt Kiran Rana and Suresh Kumar also spoke on the occasion and expressed their happiness for the honour bestowed on them. They thanked the Vice-Chancellor to recognize their work and directly communicating to them for effective feedback. Dr Suresh Upadhyay conducted the stage.

All statutory officers, heads of department and all scientists at the main campus also attended the function. The Vice-Chancellor also interacted with the press on the occasion.

Palampur 18 January. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University, launched a mobile App, 'Secrets of Elegance', here today.

The Vice-Chancellor said that to take forward the government initiative on 'vocal for local', the traditional knowledge and available plants with medicinal properties can come handy to spread the useful information among masses. He recalled the use of Indian soap nut tree( Reetha) for hair care and turmeric in skin care since ages in rural areas of Himachal Pradesh and advocated the use of such traditional items in maintaining good health and good looks.

The Vice-Chancellor expressed his happiness on the 'Mobile Application on Secrets of Elegance' which will enable the user to have easy access and availability on beauty care ideas which were easily available in every kitchen. He expressed the hope that with the help of this App, women along with their household works will take care of their beauty without spending money and wasting time. He asked the Mobile App. developer Dr. Raj Pathania, Professor and Head, Deptt. of Human Development, College of Community Science to add features in this App. for the use of men also.

He also directed the newly created cell on information technology to launch a mobile application on the University for the benefit of farmers, students and others. Dr.Y.S.Dhaliwal, Dean of the College of Community Science, told that the Mobile App has been developed under CM StartUP Scheme. Dr.D.K.Vatsa, Director of Research; Dr.Mandeep Sharma, Dean, COVAS; Dr.(Mrs.) Jatinder Kishatwaria and some other scientists were present on the occasion.

"Feel the joy of learning with new facilities in updated and upgraded system at CSKHPAU" Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor asks students

Palampur 18 January. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University said that many students' related positive decisions have been taken and the students will feel the joy of learning with new facilities in the updated and upgraded system. He was interacting with the students of third-year class of B.Sc. Hons. Agriculture after formal regular classes commenced in the College of Agriculture after ten months, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor asked the students to immediately take control of their farm practicals and begin the session with a positive approach. For competitive examinations and good career opportunities, exact knowledge and competence were required which students can assimilate easily during regular classes. He told that many students many facilities for the students and staff were in offing to give an international look to the University. He declared that all classes in all the constituent colleges will be opened in a phased manner. The Vice-Chancellor said that campus life has no substitute and all precautions will be observed to take care of the students to ensure their safety. Already, all staff has been screened for the pandemic and strict vigil will continue. He asked the students to follow Covid-19 related strict protocol and help the administration in the smooth resumption of the academic activities. Already, some Post Graduate students have resumed their research work and the students of B.V.Sc. & A.H. have also joined regular classes.

Dr.R.K.Katrari, Dean, College of Agriculture told that the interaction session has been arranged to build confidence and security among students. He said that online classes and examinations were held under extraordinary situation due to pandemic but these were no substitute for regular classes. All pandemic related precautions will be observed in the colleges and hostels. The Dean said that it was a matter of great joy that a former student of his college Prof H.K.Chaudhary, now occupying the august position of Vice-Chancellor and was interacting with the students.

Dr.V.K.Gupta, Students' Welfare Officer, Dr.Hirday Paul Singh, Jt. Director of Public Relations and some teachers were present during the interaction session. Some students also thanked the administration for starting the regular classes.

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CSKHPAU to extend professional help in socio-economic development of Chamba farmers: Prof H.K.Chaudhary,Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 16 January. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University will extend its professional and technical services in the socio-economic development of farmers in Chamba district.

This was decided in a virtual meeting of Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor with Shri D.C.Rana, IAS Deputy Commissioner, Chamba today.

The Vice-Chancellor said that as per the detailed discussions and assurance of all support from the district administration, the University will revamp its research and extension activities in Chamba district through its Research Station, Salooni. Initially, two research and extension project proposals will be jointly executed by the University and district administration-Chamba and line departments of the district Chamba. These include, "Strategies for increasing lavender production to enhance livelihood security in the economically backward district Chamba of Himachal Pradesh" and "Strengthening livelihood security through mainstreaming farmers' varieties of rajmash, mash and kulthi in Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh."

The Vice Chancellor said that Salooni, Tissa, Bharmour and Pangi valleys have immense scope of Lavender cultivation due to favourable temperate climate and its aromatic oil is in great demand. These valleys will be declared as "Lavender Valleys". This will attract agro-tourism and generate employment opportunities thereby increasing the income of the farmers. He said that rajmash, mash and kulthi of Bharmour and Holi regions are famous for their attractive colour, peculiar aroma, organoleptic taste, easy cooking quality and digestibility and are always in huge demand. After purification, the Farmers' Varieties of these pulses will be given protection by registration these with the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Authority of India (PPV&FRA). Already the University has helped and the farmers for the registration of three farmers' varieties of maize namely 'Hachhi Kukri', 'Ratti' and 'Chitkanu' of Bhandal Panchayat of Chamba district with PPV&FRA. The Panchayat was awarded with National Plant Genome Saviour Community Award worth Rs. 10.00 lakh. Now, effort will be made to get registration of farmers' pulse varieties of this district. For getting geographical indicators (GI) for Chamba Rajmash, Kulthi and Mash, the University will extend its help through a GI Taskforce and will also involve Himachal Pradesh Council for Science Technology and Environment so that farmers get recurring financial benefits.

Prof Chaudhary said that all research and extension activities will be carried out in participatory mode by involving local farmers and communities. All efforts will be made to attract and retain youth in agriculture. Shri D.C.Rana, Deputy Commissioner appreciated the initiative of the University and assured to provide all help of the district administration in this endeavour. Ms. Kiran Bhadana, IAS, SDM, Salooni, Director of Research Dr DK Vats, Director of Extension Education Dr Madhumeet Singh, Associate Director Dr SP Dixt, Dr Jai Dev, Dr Anil Kumar and Senior Officers of the lined departments of Chamba district participated in this on-line meeting.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, VC, inaugurates virtual class room worth Rs.20 lakh at CSKHPAU

Palampur 13 January. Prof H.K.Chaudhary,Vice-Chancellor inaugurated an ultra-modern virtual classroom facility here today. He said that under the prevailing pandemic and adverse circumstances, it will prove boon for the students sitting in the safe and cosy environs of their homes. They will no more miss classes and will also attend virtual practical too. This platform will emphatically focus on teaching and learning.

The Vice-Chancellor said that that virtual classroom facility was very much a part of New Education Policy which his university intends to implement from the next academic session. He said that the new facility will be a boon for multidisciplinary approach where the University can act as an umbrella organisation where colleges of one or two districts can be affiliated with it to award degrees by sharing the resources and facilities. It will be useful for the tribal area also. He said that initially all the constituent colleges will record their best lectures which will be consolidated at ICAR level for uploading on YouTube. He told that besides the students, the university will utilize the new facility for launching several online certificate courses for the farmers and other interested clients. He directed the scientists to prepare material for online lectures on natural farming, bee-keeping, goat and sheep rearing, bee-keeping, mushroom cultivation, seed production, fishery, etc. on priority. Prof Chaudhary told that the University will also add language lab with Sanskrit as an important subject. He said that it was imperative to study Sanskrit to learn and read Vedas, Shastras and other old scriptures to learn about the medicinal, herbal and other plants.

. The virtual class room facility has been supported by the National Agricultural Higher Education Project. The class room is equipped with latest gadgets and facilities like visualizer, digital white board, etc worth Rs. 20 lakh. The Vice-Chancellor said that it was an idea of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research and expressed his gratitude to Dr T. Mohapatra, Director General, ICAR and Dr.R.C.Aggarwal, Deputy Director-General, ICAR for extending the support to the University for creating this facility.

Dr.D.K.Vatsa, Director of Research; Dr.R.K.Kataria, Dean College of Agriculture, Dr.Satish Paul, Dean Post Graduate Studies, Dr.Suresh Kumar, Librarian, Dr.Ranbir Rana, Principal Investigator of NHAEP, Dr.V.K.Sharma, Head, Soil Science and Mr.Kapil Sharma were present on the occasion.

Palampur 8 January. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University has made successful efforts to contain the spread of Covid-19 on the campus by effectively implementing all government instructions from time to time. Beginning March, last year, all advisories, orders and instructions to contain the spread of the pandemic were followed completely resulting in bare minimum cases on the campus.

First corona positive case was discovered in the College of Basic Sciences in mid December and the administration was quick to order the University health center to start extensive screening of all staff. Among the 1176 employees and staff screened for flu-like symptoms, four cases were found positive on testing. Then, in collaboration with the Chief Medical Officer, Kangra, RT-PCR Covid-19 testing camps were organized beginning 19 December. Among the 1319 staff and students tested, only nine were found Covid positive and were isolated in the dedicated Covid care area in the University. They were provided requisite support and medications.

Prof. H.K.Chaudhary Vice-Chancellor has appreciated the staff and students for strictly following health expert advisories enabling the University to manage the pandemic effectively. He has also appreciated the Senior Medical Officer Dr. ( Mrs.) Anjana Tuli and her staff for providing good health care services during the pandemic.

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Palampur 6 January. In an innovative move, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University has decided to display photographs of progressive farmers in its premises.

Prof. H.K.Chaudhary Vice Chancellor has ordered that the selected progressive farmers adopting the new technology and spreading it among fellow farmers of the area be identified and their photographs with a brief biographical sketch be displayed in the premises of Directorate of Extension Education and farmers' hostel at the campus. All Krishi Vigyan Kendras have been directed to display photographs of progressive farmers of their respective districts.

The University has, already, initiated a tradition where progressive farmers are honored in the main programmes. In the recent past, twenty progressive farmers from different districts of the State were honoured by the Vice-Chancellor during Farm Officers' Workshop on 27 October, last year. The Vice-Chancellor has also directed the staff to hold major farmer oriented extension activities among them in their farms or their villages. It has also been decided that innovative farmers and all those farmers who learn, adopt and spread the university technology among other farmers will be suitably got awarded at the State level.

Palampur 4 January. Prof. H.K.Chaudhary Vice Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, inaugurated the new office of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) Cell, here today. This cell has been entrusted with the responsibility to promote online teaching and examination via e-learning technologies.

Prof Chaudhary said that the new cell will help the university in implementing new education policy and will also extend assistance in digitization of the campus. There is proposal to implement an e-office system and maintain the students' record through Digi-Locker system where the new cell will play an active role. He said that the whole paper based processes will be digitized and there is proposal for paperless administration. Efforts have been initiated to disseminate the transcripts and degrees to the students in online mode through mobile. This will be hassle free system where the students will be able to receive their degrees sitting at home. The ICT cell will also maintain various activities pertaining to digital resources in the university and shall also be presenting a new look feature rich interactive website of the University soon.

All statutory officers and members of ICT cell comprising Professor Incharge Dr. Shivani Katoch, Sh. Vaibhav Kalia, Sh. Kapil Sharma, and Sh. Kunal Sood were present on the occasion.

Prof. H.K.Chaudhary asks staff to work relentlessly for the bright future of farmers

Palampur 01 January. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University will implement the new education policy from the next academic session and by March this year, an e-office system to bring transparency and efficiency in the working will be implemented. This was announced by Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor while addressing the University community on the occasion of New Year through virtual mode, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor said that the students' record will be maintained and degrees will be awarded through Digi Locker and ICT cell has already been created for the purpose. He said that 46 positions of teaching and non-teaching staff have been filled up after his joining almost four months back and the process has been initiated to fill up 120 such posts. The University was duty-bound to educate youngsters and increase the income of hill farmers, conserve and scientifically utilize immense natural resources and genetically improve crops, medicinal and aromatic plants. He said that innovative changes, improvement in agricultural marketing, crop diversification and modernization were in his agenda to make agricultural attractive for the young farmers.

Prof Chaudhary exhorted each scientist to bring innovation in research as per the geographical conditions and needs of a particular area and bring new research projects for the betterment of hill farmers. He also advocated national and international collaborations for quality research, exposure of students, transfer of new farm technology and useful information at the doorsteps of the farming community. "We cannot afford to sit in offices, following strictly covid-19 related protocol the extension specialists should start reaching out to farmers immediately", advised Vice-Chancellor.

Prof. H.K.Chaudhary informed that University vision document was under process and steps have been initiated to provide new facilities to the students and staff and give international status to the University besides making campus clean, green and smart. He said that all staff members need to work with competence, dedication and zeal at the main campus and all research and extension centres for the bright future of farm education, research and extension education. Feedback about their work will be got every month and all those students and staff members whose performance is found outstanding will be honoured. He expressed the hope that the University will achieve success in its all endeavours in the mandates areas and committed himself to serve the 'mother institute' with unflagging zest.

The Vice-Chancellor also expressed his gratitude to the Governor and the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh for imposing their faith in him and giving him the opportunity to serve the farming community.

Dr.Hirday Paul Singh
Jt.Director(Info & PR)
CSK H.P.Agri.University
Palampur 176062

Dr GCN COVAS	Rs. 34,02817
College of Agriculture	Rs. 9,33000
Directorate of Extension Education	Rs. 4,00507

Dr GCN COVAS	Rs. 47,09,489
College of Agriculture	Rs. 12, 57,537
Directorate of Extension Education	Rs. 2,62,774

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CSK H. P. Agricultural University, Palampur 176062