News - CSK HPKV, Palampur

Kala Zeera Utpadan Sangh to get Rs.10 lakh Plant Genome Saviour Community Award, courtesy CSKHPAU

Palampur 17 August. Kala Zeera Utpadan Sangh from Shong village in district Kinnaur will receive prestigious Plant Genome Saviour Community Award worth Rs.10 lakh. While sharing this information, Prof H. K. Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University told that it was the initiative of his University which enabled farmers to form the Kala Zeera Utpadan Sangh (KZUS), scientifically documented traits of the crop and applied for this community award in June, last year. Now, the University has been informed by the Registrar of Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Authority (PPVFRA) about the selection of KZUS for prestigious Plant Genome Saviour Community Award worth Rs. 10 lakh alongwith a citation. It will be presented to KZUS on 12 September by the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. Prof Chaudhary said that this is India's prestigious award for acknowledging the farmers' significant contribution in conserving and development of plant varieties.

The Vice-Chancellor told that University's research centre at Sangla (Kinnaur) has been designated as 'Model Farm on Kala Zeera and Saffron.' It is working for scientific cultivation, improvement and popularization of Kala Zeera( black cumin seeds) as a medicinal crop. Kala Zeera though widely grown in forests has been domesticated and currently is under cultivation in an area of about 47 hectare in Shong village of Kinnaur district. This crop has culinary, perfumery, carminative as well as medicinal values as stimulant, expectorant, antispasmodic and diuretic properties. Essential oils namely terpenoids, phenylpropanoids, polyenes etc. in seed possess antioxidative, antifungal and antibacterial attributes. Kala Zeera has premium price in the market and stands as an example of the 'vocal for local' movement. Collection of immature seeds from the forest area and unsustainable and unscientific exploitation of this spice has resulted in reduction of its natural populations and has made it a plant of special conservation concerned in north-western Himalayas.

Prompted by the Vice-Chancellor's guidance, university scientists have compiled all the scientific data and assisted the Kala Zeera growing community to conserve, develop, popularize and formally registering its valuable land races with PPVFRA, Govt. of India.

The Vice-Chancellor appreciated the team of scientists comprising of Drs V.K. Sood, Nimit Kumar and Shailja Sharma who did all the ground work by visiting Shong village in June, 2022 and filed nomination for 'Plant Genome Saviour Community Award' to PPV & FRA. He told that Himachali Kala Zeera has been awarded with Geographical Indication (GI) tag during March 2019 by Govt. of India, thus bringing laurels to the State.

The Vice-Chancellor also expressed his gratitude to Dr. Trilochan Mohapatra, Chairperson, PPV&FRA for recognizing the KZUS as a conserving community and selection for Plant Genome Saviour Community Award, 2021-22 for this precious herb. It was only last week that with the scientific facilitation of the University, a progressive vegetable grower Garib Das from village Burli Kothi near Paprola was selected for Rs. One lakh 'Plant Genome Saviour Farmer Recognition' award by the Govt. of India.

Independence Day celebrated with patriotic fervour at CSK H.P.Agriculture University

Palampur 15 August. Independence Day was celebrated with enthusiasm and patriotic fervour at CSK H.P.Agriculture University, here today.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary,Vice Chancellor unfurled the National Flag and inspected the impressive parade by NCC cadets. The participants took an oath of 'Meri Mati Mera Gaurav' campaign to protect, preserve and conserve rich legacy of the great nation.

In his address, the Vice Chancellor greeted the University Community. He paid his glowing tributes to the freedom fighters and remembered the farsighted leadership of the country for taking landmark decisions and actions for the path breaking achievements of the nation in the last over seven decades.

The Vice Chancellor expressed grief at the loss of lives and property in Himachal Pradesh due to natural disasters in the recent past and asked all University employees to extend all possible support to needy persons in their surroundings.

He said that this is the crucial time to join hands and mitigate the sufferings of humanity.

All University officers, employees and their families and students took part in the brief ceremony

Krishi Doot Sh. Garib Das from Burli Kothi, Paprola to get Rs One lakh Plant Genome Saviour Farmer Recognition Award from Govt. of India

Palampur 10 August. With the scientific facilitation of CSK H.P.Agriculture University, a progressive vegetable grower Sh. Garib Das from village Burli Kothi near Paprola will be awarded Rs. One lakh 'Plant Genome Saviour Farmer Recognition' award by the Govt. of India.

While breaking this news, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor honoured Sh Garib Das at the University today. He also decorated his wife Smt Simri Devi with Himachali shawl. The Vice-Chancellor told that the farmer has been cultivating Desi Kheera (traditional cucumber) known as Paprola Kheera and conserving the purity of this local land race for more than 40 years. Paprola Kheera grown by him is known for its high water content, better palatability, more flesh, more crunchiness, less number of seeds and better taste with more shelf life. Paprola Kheera helps him fetch premium price in the market.

The University scientifically tested all horticultural and quality parameters of Paprola Kheera in the last two years and submitted all necessary documents to Protection of Plant Variety and Farmers' Rights Authority (PPVFRA) for registration. The University had also filed his nomination for 'Plant Genome Saviour Farmer' award to PPV & FRA authority. Now, the University has received a communication from this authority that Sh Garib Dass has been selected for prestigious 'Plant Genome Saviour Farmer Recognition' award worth Rs.One lakh . He will be awarded during Global Symposium on Farmers' Rights on 12 September at New Delhi.

Sh Garib Das thanked the Vice-Chancellor and the University for recognizing his humble efforts in conserving the land race of Paprola Kheera and submitting the application to the PPVFRA authority with necessary scientific documents.

Prof. Chaudhary had visited the farmer only a fortnight back along with a team of scientists and declared Sh Garib Das as University Krishi Doot (University Ambassador).

The Vice Chancellor appreciated Drs Parveen Sharma, Desh Raj Chaudhary, Nimit Kumar and Ravinder Kumar who scientifically tested all parameters of Paprola Kheera and submitted the application. Dr S.P.Dixit, Director of Research ,Dr Naveen Kumar, Director Extension Education, Sh V.R.Rathore, Comptroller, Drs Ravinder Singh Chandel, V.K.Sud and Hirday Paul Singh were present during the honoring ceremony of Sh Garib Das and his wife.

Researchers should come out with unique innovations and protect their Intellectual Property Rights: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor

Palampur 8 August. A day-long workshop on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) was held at Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

While addressing the research scholars, students, scientists and other participants, Chief Guest Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor said that the research scholars and students should keep working hard with concentration and come out with new and unique innovations useful to the farming community.

The Vice Chancellor told that intellectual property includes ideas and innovations which have commercial importance and value. He also spoke on the importance of Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Right Act which helps in protecting crop varieties, etc. He spoke on the need of converting knowledge into technology and getting patents, popularizing two products of each district, Vocal for Local and getting Geographical Indicators (GI). He asked participants to be aware about PPV & FRA, IPRs, GIs and patents and enlighten the farmers also.

He appreciated the IPR Cell in the University for registering a number of local land races and helping farmers in getting national awards. He told students that nothing is free and one should make efforts to protect ones intellectual property. The Chief Guest also released a 'Status paper on GI in HP and an 'Album on floral diversity in HP by the University research scholars.

Delivering his special lecture, Dr S.C.Sharma, retired Director Research, detailed intellectual property management and technology transfer. He said that just like writing a will for one's personal property, scientists should protect their scientific innovations and other intellectual property.

Dr S.P.Dixit, Director Research, Dr Daisy Basandrai, Chairperson, IPR Cell; Drs V.K.Sood and Raj Pathania also spoke on the importance of IPRs.

Flash flood effected KVK to be revitalized with ICAR support: Prof H.K.CHaudhary, Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 1 August. " The University is working on a recovery plan to revitalize Krishi Vigya Kendra farm at Bajaura in Kullu which suffered extensive damage in the recent flash floods", this was disclosed by Prof H.K.Chauhdary, Vice-Chancellor, here today.

Prof Chauhdary who visited the KVK, Bajaura(Kullu) to monitor the loss, told that recent flash floods have caused much loss to the demonstration- cum- research farm of KVK and there is 4-6 feet silt and debris on the farm. All the field and vegetable crops have been completely destroyed. There is moderate loss to horticulture plants like apple, pomegranate, plum and persimmon but some plants are showing mortality.

The Vice-Chancellor directed the scientists to make proper channels to evacuate the stagnant water and save the fruit plants. He said that it was time to deal with this calamity as a challenge and plan experiments for reclamation of flood hit farm. The scientists need to save horticultural crops and study the impact of floods on these crops. He advised that reclamation techniques be implemented for carrying out experiments after examining the site. Prof Chaudhary told that he has already discussed the matter with Indian Council of Agricultural Research and Dr.Parvinder Sheoran, Director of Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute (ATARI) at Ludhiana and got assurance that all possible support will be extended to revitalise the KVK. The Vice-Chancellor told that the University will also invite experts from Central Arid Zone Research Institute , Jodhpur for their technological inputs.

The Vice-Chancellor also directed scientists of University Research Station to share all resources with KVK for the betterment of farming community. He said that importance and uniqueness of University KVK and Research Station at Bajaura be highlighted to the visitors.

Palampur 28 July. A record number of 87 post graduate students of Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University have qualified National Eligibility Test this year.

While hosting a tea party to NET qualified students and their advisor teachers , Prof H.K Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor said that it was a matter of pride and happiness for the University as it was the best performance since inception of the University. He told that efforts have been initiated to establish a career development centre in the University with the support of State Government to prepare the students for competitive examinations. He exhorted the students to work hard in their respective fields and bring fame and laurels to them as well as their alma mater. He also advised them to appear in other competitive national level tests.

Prof Chaudhary said that success is achieved by consistency working hard and discussions among the students and teachers. He appreciated students, teachers and supporting staff for the grand success this year. He said that the examinations were conducted by Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research and National Testing Agency in April and the results have been declared on 25 July. He told that 84 PG students have qualified NET-2023 conducted by ASRB while 3 students have cleared the UGC NET conducted by NTA. The NET is the qualifying test for candidates interested in applying for the posts of Assistant Professors or equivalent positions in the farm and other Universities situated all over the country. Of the 87 students who have cleared this exam, 67 belong to the College of Agriculture, 18 are from Dr.G.C. Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences while one student each is from the College of Basic Sciences and College of Community Science.

Drs Suresh Upadhyaya, Dean PG studies; Dr S.P.Dixit, Director of Research, Dr R.K.Kapila, Librarian; Sh.V.R.Rathor, Comptroller;Drs R.S.Chandel and Pankaj Sud also congratulated the students and teachers for the excellent performance. Some students also expressed their views and expressed their gratitude to the teachers and the University. All statutory officers, head of departments and scientists were present during the ceremony.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor transplants basmati with blast resistance genes

Palampur 21 July. Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University has introduced a new version of basmati introgressed with genes for blast resistance and dwarfness.

Prof. H.K. Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, himself introduced and transplanted this new version of basmati in the farmer's field at Ustehar village near Baijnath. He told that new strain is semi dwarf blast resistant version of popular Ranbir basmati cultivar developed through marker assisted breeding. This strain has been developed by the University biotechnologist Dr. Rajeev Rathour.

The Vice-Chancellor met progressive vegetable grower Sh. Gareeb Das at Burli Kothi village near Paprola. He appreciated Sh. Gareeb Das for cultivating Desi Kheera (cucumber) known for its high water content, more flesh, more crunchiness and better taste with more shelf life. Prof Chaudhary told that purity of this local land race has been conserved by this farmer for more than 30 years. The University has tested all its quality parameters and submitted all necessary documents to Protection of Plant Variety and Farmers Right Act authority for registration. The University has also filed his nomination for Plant Genome Saviour Farmer award to PPV & FRA authority. Sh Gareeb Dass thanked the Vice-Chancellor for his visit and all efforts to get him recognition at the national level.

The Vice Chancellor also visited Kalholi village of Dharer Panchayat, which has been adopted under "Farmer's First Programme." Prof Chaudhary said that the farmers have adopted scientific farming and raised their economic status under the technical guidance of University scientists. He advised that this Panchayat should act as role model in agriculture for adjoining villages and progressive farmers should feel themselves like teachers to train fellow farmers. He advised farmers to encourage their children to get admission in professional academic programmes in his University. He directed the scientists to demonstrate 'Agriculture Spray Drone' in the rice fields in this area.

The farmers profusely thanked the Vice-Chancellor for his regular visits and the University experts for farm inputs and technical guidance. Besides progressive farmers Shri Nagender Katoch, Capt. Ram Prakash Rana, Sh. Rajinder Angaria, Smt.Seema Devi,etc. the University scientists Drs R.S. Chandel, V.K. Sood,Desh Raj Chaudhary, Rajeev Rathour and Gurdev Singh were present during the visit of Vice-Chancellor to three villages.

Prof Chander Kumar, Minister of Agriculture & AH inaugurates National Workshop on 'One Health and Nutritional Security' at CSKHPAU

Palampur 18 July. A national workshop on 'One Health and Nutritional Security ' was held at Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar H.P.Agriculture University,here today.

Chief Guest Prof Chander Kumar, Minister of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, in his inaugural address, exhorted the scientists to create awareness among the public about the importance of the good health of humans, animals and environment protection.The Minister said one health concept is essential as it involves human beings and animals.In earlier times cows were taken good care by people but now several problems like monkey menace, abandoned animals, etc have arisen due to human apathy and greed.He said that many times environment related disease in animals are transmitted to human beings.He cited example that in earlier times, people were advised not to eat meat or fish in rainy season but now such precautions are not observed.The Chief Guest said that coarse grains were part of human diet and animal feed but such millets rich in carbohydrates, proteins, etc have been abandoned.He said that awareness about such issues should be created for good health and protecting environment.The Minister discussed importance clean water, hygienic food, quality feed, etc for nutritional security and good health.He discussed maintaining balance between human needs and environment protection.The Chief Guest underlined the importance of cleanliness in cow sheds, homes, farms, etc.

In his presidential remarks, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor said that the Department of Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology in his University has taken good initiative to enlighten the general masses and all concerned about human health, animal health and environmental health.He said that it is equally important to protect and preserve human health and animal health as there are many disease which are inter transferable among themselves.He asked all stakeholders to adopt and spread 'One Health' approach in control and prevention of zoonotic or animal transmitted diseases like brucellosis, tuberculosis, rabies, scrub typhus etc.There is need to enlighten masses about health hazards due to environmental pollution.

Guest of honour Dr.Hans Raj Khanna, Joint Commissioner, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying ,Govt of India said that protection of planet health is vital with participation of multi sector approach.He said that around one million people die annually with around 200 zoonotic diseases.Dr Sunil Raina, co organising secretary also spoke about the relevance of one health.

Dr Ravindra Kumar, Dean, Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Science; Dr S.P.Dixit, Director Research also expressed their views.

Dr Ashok Kumar Panda, organising secretary told that around 150 progressive farmers, veterinary officers from the State department of Animal Husbandry, doctors from Dr Rajendra Prasad Govt Medical College, Tanda, scientists from IVRI Regional Station, Palampur, faculty and PG students from Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Science took part in the University statutory officers and officers from local administration were also present during the inaugural ceremony.

CSKHPAU gets certificate of appreciation to for AICRP on Micro and Secondary Nutrients and Pollutant Elements in Soils and Plants

Palampur 17 July. Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University has been appreciated for the outstanding work done in the All India Coordinated Research Project on "Micro and Secondary Nutrients and Pollutant Elements in Soils and Plants".Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor told that Dr. Pardeep Kumar, Principal Investigator of the project received certificate of appreciation during the recently held workshop at Orrisa University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneshwar. He expressed his happiness that significant work done on micronutrients for vegetable crops under the project has been appreciated at the national level. He said that zinc, boron and molybdenum are essential for plants and human health management. The Vice Chancellor said that Dr. Pardeep Kumar, Incharge of the project has already received such appreciations twice by Indian Council of Agricultural Research during the last five years. The outcome of the research work has been published in high impact factor international and reputed national journals. It reflects the significant work done in the project.

Dr.Narender Kumar Sankhyan, Head, Department of Soil Science was also present on the occasion.

Palampur 17 July. Six Ph.D. scholars of Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University have been selected for attending an advanced trainings program on crop modelling, nutrient management, carbon sequestration and climate smart agriculture for two months.Disclosing this Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor said that besides the scholars, Dr N.K. Sankhyan, Professor and Head, Department of Soil Science will also get training at International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), Philippines. This opportunity is part of the Centre for Advanced Agricultural Science and Technology under the National Agricultural Higher Education project by Indian Council of Agricultural Research.The Vice-Chancellor exhorted all to learn new techniques in different domains and apply these technologies to augment the quality research in agriculture and bring out high impact research publications. He expressed the hope that the training will open new vistas to manage agricultural inputs and resources under climatic uncertainties and availability of resources.Before leaving for training, Ph.D. scholars Ms. Bhawna Babal, Ms. Aanchal, Ms. Pratibha Thakur , Ms. Avnee, Ms. Gaytri Hetta, Mr. Gaurav Sharma and Dr N.K.Sankhyan met the Vice-Chancellor. Dr. S.P. Dixit, Director of Research, Dr. Naveen Kumar, Director of Extension Education and Dr. Ranbir Singh Rana Principal Investigator, NAHEP-CAAST were also present on the occasion.

Palampur 11 July. CSK H.P. Agriculture University has taken an initiative to get advanced trainings to its students at reputed international institutions. Disclosing this here today, Prof H.K.Chaudhary said that thirteen postgraduate students have already participated in international trainings on cutting-edge technology in countries such as Japan, UK, USA, Israel, Australia, Turkey, Taiwan, etc. and eight postgraduate students will be leaving for advanced international trainings at France, USA, Japan and Philippines soon. He told that besides post graduate students, five faculty members have also got trainings at top international institutions and four teachers will be sent for such trainings this month.

Prof Chaudhary said that he has executed some international collaborative research projects and got opportunity to work in top laboratories and it was his desire to get similar exposure to students and staff. He said that such international trainings play a crucial role in enhancing the capacity of faculty and students in important areas of agriculture. These enable them to conduct high-quality research and contribute to improving the university's ranking through impactful research publications in renowned journals. He told that Ph.D research scholars got opportunity to work with renowned scientists in their areas of specialization such as advanced breeding, and genomic techniques for characterizing and enhancing disease resistance, DNA sequencing techniques and evaluation of results of chemical ecology studies on termites, data analysis techniques for impact assessment of interventions, molecular genetic analysis of crop species, advanced breeding, and genomic techniques for characterizing and enhancing disease resistance, mapping heat stress tolerance, modern phenomics approaches to study different morph-physiological traits conferring drought tolerance, etc. The students and staff have undergone trainings at well known institutions and universities like South Dakota State University, USA; Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Japan; University of Melbourne, Australia; University of Wisconsin, USA; Volcani Centre, Israel ;World Vegetable Centre, Thailand; Kazusa DNA Research Institute, Japan ; University of Southern Queensland, Australia; University of Minnesota, USA, etc.

He told that the trainings were sponsored under mega ad hoc research project on Protected Agriculture and Natural Farming funded under the Centre for Advanced Agricultural Science and Technology, National Agricultural Higher Education and World Bank Project. The project aims to focus on several key areas, including creating modern research facilities, enhancing entrepreneurial skills and employability of postgraduate students, and building the capacity of faculty and students through national and international collaborations and trainings. Over the past three years, there has been a significant improvement in the university's rankings, moving from 14th place to 10th place overall, and achieving the 8th position in the NIRF ranking by Union Ministry of Education. As part of the project, scientific infrastructure worth Rs 650 lakh has also been established.

Palampur 23 July.CSK H.P.Agriculture University and IIT, Ropar has signed a Memorandum of Understanding for research and development in the domain of technologies for agriculture and water. Disclosing this, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor said that both institutions will collaborate through cooperation and promotion of research and education in digital entomology, livestock management, cold chain management system, internet of things, and precision agriculture. He said that the University and IIT will also work jointly in application of drone technology in agriculture, facilitation of joint research programs, exchange of academic personal,etc.

The Vice Chancellor said that MoU will bring together the R and D strength of both prestigious institutions with the expertise and experience of the industries. He said that it will help in bringing technological solutions of the scientific problems of industry and academia and will help in setting up a robust and vibrant innovation driven technology development ecosystem in agriculture domain.

Dr Rajeev Ahuja, Director IIT, Ropar expressed the hope that both institutions will work in perfect coordination as quality research is a must for all institutions. He said that IIT develops technology as per the needs. He discussed use artificial intelligence and drone technology in agriculture and helping students in Startups.

On behalf of the University, Dr.(Mrs) Madhu Chaudhary,Registrar and Dr S.P.Dixit, Director of Research and on behalf of IIT Dr Rajeev Ahuja, Director and Dr Pushpendra P.Singh, Project Director signed the MoU.

Besides University statutory officers, Drs Atharva Poundarika and Reet Kamal Tiwari from IIT were present during MoU signing ceremony

Dr.G.C.Negi COVAS scientists attend to disease outbreak at Nehru Pheasantry, Manali

Palampur 3 July. On the directions of Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, veterinary scientists attended to disease outbreak among Kalij pheasants at Nehru Pheasantry, Manali. It was informed 12 Kalij pheasants died in the last one fortnight. The scientists visited enclosures, breeding area and inspected the bird rearing areas thoroughly. The pathologist performed post-mortem examination of three dead birds on the spot and biological samples were collected for further laboratory examinations. The team provided on the spot recommendation along with line of treatment and further corrective steps to control and prevent the mortality among the wild birds. All the necessary and immediate measures to be undertaken for the welfare of the birds were also discussed with the concerned staff.

The Vice-Chancellor has appreciated Prof.R.Kumar, Dean, Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences and team members Drs. Prasenjit Dhar, R. D. Patil, and Ajay Katoch for promptly taking action on the request of Deputy Conservator of Forests, Wild Life Division, Kullu.

Professor H K Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor, CSK H.P.Agriculture University inaugurated various infrastructure facilities at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sundernagar today. After inaugurating residential complex, poultry demonstration unit, agriculture technology information centre and main gate, Prof. Chaudhary interacted with progressive farmers and 'Krishi doots' in the 'Kisan gosthi'. Prof. Chaudhary asked the scientists to disseminate the latest farm technologies as per the changing climate scenario to enhance farm income. He said that it was important to initiate entrepreneurship development programmes to attract rural youth in farm sector. He also underlined the importance of conservation of traditional crop varieties and assured university's technical backstopping and help for the welfare of the farming community.

Guest of Honour Dr Parvender Sheoron Director Indian Council of Agricultural Research ATARI, Ludhiana appreciated the KVK efforts and assured all support for holistic development of the farming community. He asked the scientists to showcase all the sustainable technologies in one or two model villages to make them zero hunger or zero technology gap villages for horizontal expansion by line departments.

Dr Pankaj Sood programme coordinator of the KVK earlier elaborated the various programmes being undertaken by KVK for the welfare of farming community. Er. Vijay Premi, Estate Officer, Sh Sita Ram Verma President Himachal Kisan Union, Er Sudhir Sood, Sh Parma Ram, Sh Sanjay Kumar, Sh Kundan Lal, progressive farmers, KVK faculty & staff were present during the programme

HPAU research scholars leave for training in USA and Mexico Palampur 24 June. Three Ph.D. scholars of CSK H.P. Agriculture University have been selected for trainings at reputed International Institutions in the USA and Mexico. Ms. Priyanka and Ms.Kaldate Supriya will be getting training on 'Advanced breeding and genomic techniques for characterizing and enhancing disease resistance in winter wheat' at South Dakota State University, Brookings, U.S.A for two months. This training will help them to get acquainted with advanced breeding and genomic techniques which will be helpful to improve the plant traits to develop new varieties that are tolerant to heat, drought and disease with advanced precision and efficiency in shortest possible time. Mr. Vivek Singh will be getting one and a half month training on "Genetics and Breeding of Disease Resistance" at CIMMYT, El Batan, Mexico. He will learn various aspects related to pathogen variability, host plant resistance, candidate genes for resistance in plants useful in developing new varieties with enhanced precision and efficiency in the shortest possible time. The research scholars before leaving for the USA and Mexico met Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor who congratulated them and said that studying genetics and breeding for disease resistance using various techniques would be helpful to develop new varieties with better performance. Dr.S.P.Dixit, Director Research; Dr. Ranbir Singh Rana, Principal Investigator Indian Council of Agricultural Research. National Agricultural Higher Education Project on Centre of Advanced Agricultural Science and Technology on Protected Agriculture and Natural farming and Dr. V. K. Sood, Head, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding were also present during meeting of scholars with the Vice Chancellor.

Palampur 2 June. CSK H.P.Agriculture University has signed MoU with Indian Army. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor told that the University will provide training and expertise in the field of protected cultivation and integrated cultivation of vegetable crops, horticulture, mushroom cultivation, post-harvest and value addition, dairy and organic and natural farming, poultry farming, startup initiatives, bee-Keeping, fisheries, nursery raising etc., to ex serviceman, serving defense personal dependents, wards of defense personals nominated by the Indian Army at different Krishi Vigyan Kendras of the University. The MoU was signed in the presence of Prof H.K.Chaudhary and Brig M.S.Bains. The MoU has been signed initially till March 2025 by Col Ashutosh Mehta on behalf of the Indian Army and Dr.S.K.Upadhyay, Associate Director Extension Education on behalf of the University.

"Utilize new technologies to educate farmers and students.", suggests Shri Akshay Sood, IAS Secretary Finance

Palampur 1 June. Shri Akshay Sood , IAS, Secretary (Finance), Govt of Himachal Pradesh during his visit to CSK H.P. Agriculture University has asked the University to utilize new technologies available at the campus to educate farmers, teachers and students.

Prof. H. K. Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor, apprised the Secretary about major academic, research, extension education and other development activities. Shri Akshay Sood visited Molecular Cytogenetics and Tissue Culture Lab and greatly appreciated the efforts of Prof Chaudhary for developing state of the art research facilities at par with International labs. He said that the potential of speed breeding should be utilized to develop good wheat varieties by reducing the breeding cycle for the benefit of the farming community of State. He also visited horticulture nursery, pilot processing plant and Geo Informatics Centre. The Secretary suggested studying changes in area under tea cultivation in the past three four decades using remote sensing data in Kangra District. He asked the University to develop collaboration with Aryabhata Geoinformatics Space Application Centre(AGISAC), Shimla. He also suggested that the faculty and students from other colleges and institutions should be imparted training on GIS and remote sensing on payment basis as it has been proposed under New Education Policy. He said this centre should use ISROs products for agricultural activities.

The Secretary also visited veterinary clinics and dairy farm. He asked the University to develop hostel for night stay of farmers bringing indoor patients. In dairy farm, he was apprised of the new technologies like use of Allflex based herd management system, sex sorted semen and automatic grooming, etc. The Secretary said that Allflex based herd management system be popularised among the farmers through self-help groups or Panchayats. He was happy to see the first female calf born out of use of sex sorted semen. He visited 25 acres Natural Farm and saw products like Jeevamrit prepared using indigenous technology. He also saw the well maintained herd of Desi cow at natural farm.

The Secretary appreciated the University for scrupulously undertaking mandated activities for the benefit of students and farming community of Himachal Pradesh with proven results and technologies.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor conferred with Honorary Col Commandant rank at CSKHPAU

Palampur 31 May.Prof. H.K.Chaudhary,Vice Chancellor was conferred with the honorary rank of Colonel Commandant of NCC in an impressive pipping ceremony at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.Brigadier Rohit Datta decorated Prof Chaudhary with Col Commandent rank. In his address Brig Datta conveyed congratulations to the Vice Chancellor on behalf of Director General NCC and the nation and said that only 13 Vice Chancellors have been conferred this Honorary Col rank this year.He said that the Vice Chancellor is nurturing his institution excellently and contributing much to the society by inspiring all to become better citizens.Brig Datta asked all to contribute in the nation building activities.He also elaborated about the sanctity of uniform.He asked cadets to imbibe traits like honestly, sincerity,etc. Attired in army uniform, Vice Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhary, in his address, said that it was a day of glory for the University and for him too.He remembered his late mother and expressed his gratitude to army authorities for the honour.Prof Chaudhary detailed history and vision of NCC.He assured to strengthen NCC activities in the University and thanked NCC authorities for raising strength of University NCC cadets from 100 to 200.He also detailed various achievements of NCC cadets including clearing 'B' and 'C' certificate examinations in good numbers, regularly donating blood to the needy patients, etc.He told that the University NCC cadets are joining Indian armed forces as officers at regular intervals.The Vice Chancellor asked parents to develop passion in their children for serving the nation.Col Aashutosh, Lt Col B.S.Khandka, Commander, NCC 5 HP Company Dharamshala, University statutory officers,scientists, relatives of the Vice Chancellor including his father Sh Bishsn Das Chaudhary, wife Dr Parveen Lata Chaudhary and around 200 NCC cadets of the University were present in the ceremony. University NCC officer Dr Ankur Sharma conducted the proceedings.

Develop strategic communications plan, advises Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor,

Palampur 29 May. A five days training workshop for Akashwani and Doordarshan broadcasters began at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today. Organised jointly by the University and National Academy of Broadcasting and Multimedia(NABM), Prasar Bharti New Delhi, the workshop was inaugurated by Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor.

In his inaugural address, Prof. Chaudhary emphasised the need to develop a strategic communications plan for cost effective agriculture with the objective of doubling farmers income by utilising new and innovative farm production techniques and technologies. The Vice Chancellor said that scientists and broadcasters can join hands to provide useful Information to farmers which may enable them to enhance their farm income. He said that broadcasters should study the working of farmers in niche areas to learn their hard work and the way they deal with day to day problems in their farms. He said good work of progressive farmers should be highlighted at the National level so that others are also motivated. The Vice Chancellor also highlighted strengths of Himachal Pradesh in agriculture and asked trainees to encourage farmers to ask questions and provide accurate information. He also detailed major achievements of his University.

In her presidential remarks, Mrs. Anuradha Aggarwal, Additional Director General, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, said that broadcasters should be aware about the farm technologies which help farmers in doubling their income. She told that University experts will train around 45 broadcasters from all over the country in using innovative farm production technologies in increasing farmers income. The role of broadcasters at All India Radio and Doordarshan was very important to educate the stakeholders with correct information and technologies.

Dr Umashankar Singh, Coordinator NABM and Dr Naveen Kumar, Director Extension Education also expressed their views. Dr S.K.Upadhyay, Associate Director proposed a vote of thanks. The University statutory officers including Mrs. Madhu Chaudhary, HAS Registrar and heads attended the inaugural ceremony.

Palampur 27 May. The quality seed production programme at CSK H.P. Agriculture University has got a national award.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor told that under All India Coordinated Research Project on Seed (Crops), the quality seed production in the Department of Seed Science and Technology has been awarded the prestigious Best Performance Centre Award 2022-23. This national award was conferred under the Quality Seed Production Component and Dr R. K. Kapila, Nodal Officer (Seed) received the award from Deputy Director General, Indian Council of Agriculture Research.

Prof Chaudhary said that award among 38 State Agricultural Universities, where this project is running, amply proves the quality seed production program of the University. On an annual basis, the university is producing more the 1000 quintal of breeder and 500 quintal of foundation seed of high yielding varieties of field and vegetable crops apart from truthfully labelled seed forming the foundational rock bed for food security of the region.

The Vice-Chancellor said that the University is thankful to the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Indian Council of Agricultural Research and Indian Institute of Seed Science for recognizing and acknowledging immense contribution of the University in seed sector.

Palampur 25 May. The scientists of CSK H.P. Agriculture University organized three days training camps on drudgery reduction.

Organised by the Department of Family Resource Management and Consumer Science of College of Community Science under Rastriya Krishi Vikas Yojna, these camps focussed on "Drudgery Mitigation of Hill Farm Women through Improved Technologies" in Chatter, Kona, Bhataan and Ladoh village in Kangra district and Mohangatti, Dali, Padain, Sainthal and Harabagh villages in Mandi district.

The scientist made participants aware about improved work methods, tools and technologies and disseminated gender friendly technologies to them. Demonstrations were given on the use of appropriate technologies to reduce their drudgery, methods and benefits of natural farming, ready to use products from household wastes through resource management practices, effect of wrong working postures, work simplification techniques, conservation of resources and health hygiene practices.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor appreciated the efforts of the Dr. Neena Vyas, Ms. Aruna Rana and Ms. Madhu Dadwal for empowering the farm ladies with appropriate skill and knowledge to use suitable technologies and work methods which will help in mitigating their drudgery, saving time and enhancing output.

Dr Y.S.Dhaliwal, Dean, College of Community Science told that around 230 women have been benefited from this RKVY project.

Palampur 20 May.World honey bee day was celebrated at Bee Research Station (BRS) of CSK H.P.Agriculture University at Nagrota Bagwan, 25 KMs from here today.

While addressing bee keepers and scientists, Chief Guest Sh R.S.Bali, Chairman, H.P.Tourism Development Corporation,said that historic BRS will be linked with Tourism and quality honey of the station and area will be made available to different tourism hotels and units of the State Government.He also underlined the importance of honey bees in agriculture, horticulture and forestry and asked youngsters to get training and become professional bee keepers.In his presidential remarks, Prof.H. K. Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, highlighted the status and scope of bee keeping in H.P. He said that BRS has served the nation and even provided assistance and guidance to bee keepers and scientists of neighbouring countries.He detailed the recent initiatives to develop the station and asked farmers to take full advantage of this station to enhance their skills in bee keeping. Dr S.P.Dixit, Director of Research, highlighted importance of this day and detailed future projections in bee keeping. Dr.Sudhsndhu Mishra, Chief General Manager, NABARD spoke on impact of climate change on beekeeping and bee keeping as entrepreneurship.The Chief Guest and Vice-Chancellor released bee keeping activity calander and distributed KCC.They also honoured some Progressing bee keepers of the area.Dr Surender Sharma, Incharge of the station gave details of major activities of the station. Around 150 farmers of the surrounding villages participated in the program.

Palampur 21 April.To mark the National Public Relations Day, an 'Awareness program on Millets for Media and Masses' was organised at CSK H.P.Agriculture University, here today.

While interacting with participants, Chief Guest Dr H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor asked scientists to help millets reach the consumers table from farmers fields.He said that young entrepreneurs may help farmers get premium prices by marketing such highly nutritive foods in metropolitan cities.He said that every district has several products and commodities but marketing is a major problem which can be resolved by Farmers Producer Organisations , Startups, entrepreneurs,etc.He also advised that millet products should be advertised well and made attractive so that children relish these.

The Vice Chancellor said that the University has signed MOU with Indian Institute of Millets Research, Hyderabad to expedite research and extension activities.Brochures and calendar on six major millets of the State have been released.He said that several programs have been envisaged to enlighten public about the usefulness of millets.He said that food habits have changed world over and celebrations of International Year of Millets was a step to popularise millets all over the country.

He said that recent G20 convention was opportunity for the University to highlight biodiversity of the State, including millets.He said that inhabitants in the lap of Himalayas were blessed but they need to help to conserve and preserve precious resources.He told that the University was in the process to establish germplasm resource network, a community radio station and donkey farm soon.He also thanked media for taking University messages and information among stakeholders especially farmers.He sought their help in spreading the importance of millets among masses

Dr Y.S.Dhaliwal, Dean, College of Community Science highlighted the importance of millets.He told that value added food products have been prepared.Dr.S.P.Dixit, Director of Research detailed University efforts in millets like Ragi,Kangni,Kodra,Cheena,Swank, Sawan,Jowar, Bajra etc.These are easy to grow and are resistant to diseases and insect pests. Dr Ranjna Verma and Dr Anupama Sandal told that millets have carbohydrates, micro nutrients, soluble fibres etc helpful in controlling new age diseases like cholesterol, high BP, etc.She told that these are gluten free, anti oxidant and helpful in weight management.She told that modified grains replaced millets from our diet due to taste and cooking quality but health benefits of millets surpass such issues.Thirty five millet products have been standardized.Selected products will be linked with industries.Five students are conducting research on millets.Breakfast options based on minor millets are being explored.Rural women are trained in adopting millets in daily diet with many recipes.Millet based products like Pinni, crackers , panjiri, biscuits, bread, were served.Media persons interacted with experts.Representatives of Inner wheel Club, Rotary Club and other NGOs, University Deans, Directors and scientists took part in the program.

Palampur 19 April. During a campus placement drive; seven students of CSK H.P.Agriculutre have been recruited as Sales Trainees. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor while congratulating the selected students Dishani Sharma, Himanshu Kathiala, Rajesh Kumar, Rajiv, Nishant Singh, Prakash Kumar and Vishakha Butail, asked them to work hard and bring good name to the alma mater. He also appreciated Gharda Chemicals Ltd for conducting the interview among the graduate and post graduate students of the College of Agriculture in the last two days and expressed the hope that more students will be recruited by this leading agrochemical company based at Mumbai.

Dr.Pawan Sharma, Programme Director, HRD and Placement Cell told that 20 students of the College of Agriculture participated in the two days selection process conducted by Mr. Deepak Singh, Senior Vice President and Mr. Raman Gupta, General Manager of the company. The Vice-Chancellor felicitated them. Mr Deepak Singh is alumnus of the University, who graduated as farm graduate in 1982 from COA.

Palampur 18 April.Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor inaugurated HDFC ATM in the premises of Students' Facility Centre at CSK H.P.Agriculture University, here today. The Vice Chancellor said that several initiatives have been taken in the recent past to provide all such facilities like restaurant, stationery shop, bakery, laundry,etc for which they were required to visit city. He appreciated bank for the new ATM in the College of Agriculture and asked the bank to provide dedicated section in the bank for students. HDFC cluster head Shivinder Chauhan said that bank will extend modern age banking facilities to the staff and students of the University. Besides the manager and staff of HDFC, University statutory officers, students and staffers were present during the inaugural ceremony.

New projects on disease management and disaster management will be implemented for the welfare of Gaddi farmers: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor,CSKHPAU

Palampur 10 April. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture distributed superior Gaddi breeding bucks, emergency kits and mineral mixture to progressive Gaddies (goat framers) from Chamba and Kangra districts, here today.The Vice-Chancellor appreciated the scientists for regularly providing breeding bucks with the objectives to bring about overall breed improvement of the existing Gaddi goats under migratory production system. He told farmers that the scientists of the Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding have raised these bucks and are distributed 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.Prof Chaudhary asked them to take care of the health and maintain record of distributed bucks. He discussed importance of nutritious diet. He said that goat milk has medicinal value and Gaddies should come together to sell it collectively as it gets premium price. Similarly Gaddi goast meat is also considered a delicacy. He assured them to provide all help and guidance and advised them to keep in touch with field veterinarian during movement with flocks. He advised Gaddies not to abandon their age-old profession and motivate the new generation to get in touch with the University to improve their goat and sheep flocks. The Vice-Chancellor also asked them to maintain their rich culture and traditions including attire like chola dorra topi, etc. He told that some new projects on disease management and disaster management will be implemented for the welfare of farmers. He apreciated the project team for their hard work under migratory field conditions for the benefit of tribal people.Dr. Mandeep Sharma, Dean, COVAS, highlighted the role of breeding bucks for improving the overall productivity of flock. Dr. S. Katoch, Head of the Department Livestock Farm Complex and Dr.Nishant Verma, Principal Investor of the project 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. They 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.Among the nine farmers, two national award winners for Gaddi goat breed conservation Nandu Ram and Karam Chand expressed their gratitude to the University for providing them superior bucks annually. Dr.Suresh Gautam, Dean Post Graduate Studies, Dr. Hirday Paul Singh, Joint Director Public Relations, Dr.Arun Sharma and project team members Drs.Ankur Sharma, Rakesh Thakur, Varun Sankhyan, Ankaj Thakur, Meesam Raza, Rohit Kumar and Praveen Sharma were also present on this occasion.

Multisectoral approach needed for one health mission:Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor:

Palampur 8 April.Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor has advised that veterinary scientists should take steps to deal effectively with emerging infectious diseases among livestock and human beings.As chief guest, Prof Chaudhary was addressing delegates on the concluding day of two days annual convention and national conference of the Indian association of veterinary microbiologists, immunologists and specialists in infectious diseases(IAVMI) on noval approaches in animal health for realising one health mission at CSK H.P.Agriculture University, here today.

The Vice Chancellor advised that scientists must focus their research work on major recommendations in the conferences like collaborative research between scientists of different disciplines, urgent attention of experts to anti microbial resistance, regular industry-academic interactions, finding alternatives to antibiotics, climate change and new emerging diseases, healthy food production from animal origin,etc.He said that veterinary scientists, medical and wildlife experts should work together in realising one health mission.He underlined the need of exploration and conservation of Himalyan microflora for prevention, cure and treatment of animals and human diseases for the benefit of society. Guest of honour Dr Ashok Kumar, Assistant Director General, Indian Council of Agricultural Research said that all assistance will be provided in establishing a centre of excellence on Himalyan microbial exploration.The Vice Chancellor presented three society and 14 conference awards .He appreciated department of veterinary microbiology for organizing the conference.IAVMI President Dr M.P.Yadav and Patron Dr P.K.Uppal also addressed the participants. Dr Mandeep Sharma,Dean, Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences welcomed all and Dr Rajesh Chahota, Organizing Secretary presented recommendations of various sessions.Dr Prasenjit Dhar and Dr Subhash Verma also expressed their views.

Palampur 7 April.A two days annual convention and national conference of the Indian association of veterinary microbiologists, immunologists and specialists in infectious diseases(IAVMI) on noval approaches in animal health for realising one health mission began at CSK H.P.Agriculture University, here today.Chief Guest Dr B.N.Tripathi,Deputy Director General, Indian Council of Agricultural Research(ICAR), in his inaugural address, underlined the importance of animal health for the nation.He said that animal husbandry sector has contributed immensely in enhancing dairy, poultry, meat, fishery production etc .He told that many steps have been taken by the Govt. of India to propel livestock production in the country as this sector plays significant role in GDP.The country was quick to develop vaccine for lumpy skin disease and work on some other important vaccines to prevent major infectious disease was in the advanced stage in veterinary institutes in the country.He discussed the need to take preemptive steps to prevent and control infectious disease which cause huge losses to animal wealth.He discussed major animal diseases and steps taken to prevent and control diseases.Dr Tripathi also also elaborated realising good health for all in a holistic and collaborative manner.In his presidential remarks, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, said that it was important to see, understand and conduct research for the inhabitants of Himalayas.He said that there were numerous hidden microbes and diseases surviving under sub zero temperature and veterinary scientists must work on these by creating a centre of excellence for quality reaserch.He suggested that for the sake of safe future, all must conduct innovative research on such issues and topics.He expressed the hope that ICAR will take note of it.Prof Chaudhary asked young scholars to be inquisitive to resolve emerging problems.Dr M.P.Yadav, President, Dr P.K.Uppal, Patron and Dr A.K.Tiwari, General Secretary,IAVMI, Dr Ashok Kumar, Assistant Director General ICAR and Dr Sushila Negi, Principal Scientist from Union Ministry of Science and Technology also deliberated on the topic.Drs Praveen Malik, B R.Gulati and C.Tosh delivered lectures in scientific sessions.The Chief Guest and Vice Chancellor jointly released some publications and awarded eight scientists for their scientific achievements.Dr Mandeep Sharma,Dean, Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences welcomed all and Dr Rajesh Chahota, Organizing Secretary presented a vote of thanks.Dr Subhash Verma told that 110 delegates from all over the country were taking part in the conference. Statutory Officers, heads and scientists from host University took part in the inaugural ceremony.

Sh Ashish Butail,CPS inaugurates Students' Facility Centre and flags off e-carts at CSK H.P.Agriculture University

Palampur 31 March. Shri Ashish Butail, Chief Parliamentary Secretary, inaugurated Students' Facility Centre at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today. He also flagged-off four electric vehicles for the smooth movement of students at the campus.

While addressing the students and staff, Sh.Ashish Butail said that as CPS he looks after education too so he was happy that new facilities have been made available to the students. He congratulated the University for useful and quality facilities. He suggested that though it was difficult but efforts should be initiated to make all autonomous institutions self reliant. Shri Butail said that farming gives returns at slower pace and the University should make vigorous efforts to improve the economy of farmers with skill based trainings. He appreciated the University for doing good work for farmers and livestock keepers. He also elaborated efforts of the government in its budget for the farmers especially milk production and processing. He said that by 2025, H.P. would be converted into green State and the University has done well to introduce electric vehicles for students. He congratulated staff for OPS implemented by the Government. He also detailed about other welfare schemes.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor, said that efforts have been made to give a truly international status and look to the University by creating world class facilities. A UniShop with, souvenirs and other University branded utility items have been opened. Already dairy products shop was functional. He elaborated about initiatives to keep campus clean and green. The Vice Chancellor said the University will extend technology for new schemes of the State government for the farmers, livestock keepers and rural masses

Dr D.K.Vatsa,Dean, College of Agriculture told that the centre worth Rs 64 lakh has one cafeteria, daily need store, bakery, ATM, mobile shop, documentation and printing shop, saloon, ironing shop and juice bar.

Sh Sandeep Sood, HAS Registrar, Er Vijay Premi, Estate Officer, other University officers, scientists and students were present during twin ceremonies.

Palampur 29 March. CSK H.P. Agriculture University has initiated a series of prgrammes to make rural masses, especially farm women aware about G20 Presidency of India. In his message, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor said that it was a matter of great pride to the nation that our country is holding the prestigious position of Presidency beginning 1 December 2022 to 30 November 2023. The theme of the summit is Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam or "One Earth, One Family, One Future". The Vice-Chancellor highlighted G20 presidency of India in which various events are to be organized on the theme 'women led development with focus on gender main streaming'. He said that it was worth appreciating that the scientists of Community Science College have organized different activities for about 200 hill farm women in the last one fortnight and suggested strengthening women self-help groups so that local products are promoted. Similarly, a frame work should be developed for hand holding of FPOs to provide support to them so that hill farm women are economically empowered.

In order to boost socio-economic development under G-20; under All India Coordinated Research Project on Women in Agriculture, scientists from the College of Community Science organized training programs from 15-29 March at Kandi, Balota, Ashapuri and Andretta villages in district Kangra and Talkehar, Pasal and Chauntra in district Mandi with active participation of Gram Panchayat Pradhans. BDO Chauntra also participated and thanked the University for organizing need-based trainings useful to boost and strengthen the capabilities of hill farm women. Training Camps were organized in which lectures and demonstration on millets and other agro-based products, drudgery reduction and farm tools, personality development, Eco holi gulal, natural dyeing and digital literacy were given by Dr. Y.S.Dhaliwal, Dean of the College, Dr. Sapna Gautam, Unit Coordinator of the project and Drs. Raj Pathania, Neena Vyas, Ranjana Verna and Bindia Dutt, Principal Investigators

Training on capacity building for women in fish farming concludes at CSKHPAU

Palampur 28 March. Sponsored by National Commission for Women , five days training on capacity building for women in fish farming concluded at CSK H.P.Agriculture University.

After distributing certificates to 30 trainees, Chief Guest Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, highlighted the importance of fish farming, especially for rural ladies. Prof Chaudhary said that fish species like snow trout of Himachal Pradesh are known all over the country.He said that there is need of conservation and rearing of cold water precious fish like schizothoracic snow and rain trouts available in dry and wet temperate water resources of H.P. He said important germplasm resources like eel (Godari) etc, need urgent attention of researchers and innovative fish growers for mainstreaming the locally adapted precious gene pool. Non-vegetarians must include fish as an integral part of their food for the promotion of fish farming. The Vice-Chancelllor said that modern approaches like Biofloc fish farming can open opportunities to cultivate fish in eco friendly farming systems. The State Govt is already promoting fish farming and it's entrepreneurship to mountains youth by providing 80 percent subsidy to raise fish ponds in diverse regions of H.P. He appreciated Department of Fisheries for organising regular trainings to the farmers of entire state with the support of various state and national level projects.

Dr Mandeep Sharma, Dean, Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, asked trainees to spread the knowledge among other farmers too. Dr Daizy Wadhwa,Head and training coordinator told that topics like benefits of eating fish, fish pickle making, integrated fish farming, capacity building for women farmers through self help groups etc. were covered during training.

Two Day workshop on Capacity building of Students concluded at CSK H.P.Agriculture University.

It was jointly organised by Entrepreneurship Development Clubs of the constituent colleges. In his address to participants, Chief Guest Prof HK Chaudhary,Vice Chancellor underlined the importance of soft skills in ones personality. He asked the students to dream big and pursue their goals with hard work. He was happy to learn that topics like Communication Skills, Goal Setting, Stress management, etc have been covered by the experts from National Skill Development Forum. Members of Entrepreneurship Clubs Drs Anil Kumar, Virender Pathak, Ranjana Verma, Devesh Thakur, Ankaj Thakur, Sharmistha Thakur, Pawan Sharma, Nilakshi and Bindiya organised the two day event for the student

Palampur 21 March.Maj Gen S.S.Salaria,YSM, Incharge Administration, Northern Command held discussions with Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P.Agriculture University, here today.

Maj Gen Salaria requested the Vice Chancellor to explore the possibility of starting short term vocational courses for ex servicemen, especially Veer Narees ( war widows) and their dependents at the University. He said that a large number of ex servicemen live in H.P. and they need skill enhancement training so that they start small enterprises to generate income. He also sought University help in developing good eco system in nearby cantonments.

Prof Chaudhary, while eulogizing army personnel for their velour and sacrifices for the nation, said that the University will do everything possible to enhance the skills of ex servicemen, Veer Narees and dependent children so that they become self reliant. He detailed history, working and achievements of the University. He informed major possibilities of vocational courses in agriculture and allied avocations. "Speed, precision and communication strategy has been devised to impart training to farmers all over the state", said Prof Chaudhary. He also said that a Regional Farm Fair has been planned in mid April. A detailed discussion was held on utilization of millets in army ration, milk and milk products, landraces of rajmash, mushroom cultivation, bee keeping, nursery raising, farm mechanization, backyard poultry, fisheries, etc.

Col Ashutosh and Maj Prashant from Daring & Hardy Division (DAH) and University officers were present during the meeting. Later, army officers visited different departments in the University.

CSKHPAU doing excellent research work on Chickpea: Dr. Subhra Chakraborty, Director, NIPGR

Palampur 15 March. "CSK H.P. Agriculture University was doing excellent research work on Chickpea and outcome will benefit the breeders, biotechnologists and farmers", said Dr. Subhra Chakraborty, Director, National Institute of Plant Genome Research (NIPGR), here today.

Dr. Subhra Chakraborty, who is also Coordinator, Department of Biotechnology, Chickpea Mission Project on "Characterization of Chickpea Germplasm Resource to Accelerate Genomics-assisted Crop Improvement" and Dr. Swarup Kumar Parida, Co-Coordinator of the project visited the University and monitored the progress of the project. They held discussions with Dr Kamal Dev Sharma, Professor and Head, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology and Principal Investigator of the project and other project staff to expedite the planning and execution of the project activities.

During her discussions with Vice-Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Dr Chakraborty told that research work of such scale is being conducted for the first time in India. Fifteen institutes across India including International Crops Research Institute for the Semi Arid Tropics are part of the project. The project aims to characterize all chickpea germplasm in India and document the information for use by other stakeholders. Large-scale sequencing of mini-core of chickpea is under progress to dissect genes associated with various traits.

The Vice Chancellor congratulated the team for their efforts and appreciated Dr. Kamal Dev who is leading the cold stress component in India. He asked the team to identify the lines that are high yielding and disease resistance and test those for possible release as variety. He said that the research results must reach the poorest of the poor. Dr. Chaudhary informed that successful efforts have been made in identification and geographic tagging of the agricultural products in H.P. enabling national level prizes to the farmers of the state.

The two member team alongwith Dr S.P. Dixit, Director of Research visited the Molecular Cytogenetics and Tissue Culture Lab and was detailed about chromosome elimination technique and in situ hybridization.

Brainstorming session on mainstreaming agro biodiversity of NW Himalayas at CSKHPAU

The state Govts need to give MSP to farmers on Millets: Dr T.R.Sharma, DDG,ICAR

Palampur 10 March. Dr T.R.Sharma, Deputy Director General, Indian Council of Agricultural Research inaugurated a 'Brainstorming session on mainstreaming native agro biodiversity of North Western Himalayas with special emphasis on Millets at CSK H.P.Agriculture University, here today.

While addressing scientists, farmers and other stakeholders, Dr Sharma said that technology is available to enhance millets production by 225 percent although area under millets has declined by 75 percent in the last 70 years. He told that millets will be included in mid day meals to provide nutritive food to students and enhance income of farmers. He said that he expects that state governments, including H.P., will give minimum support price on millets to farmers to encourage them to grow these nutritive crops. Dr Sharma told that ICAR has a major project on agro biodiversity giving good results. Collection and conservation of landraces and wild species is crucial to develop climate resilient crop varieties. He told that besides underutilized crops, ICAR is working on bio fortification of varieties like wheat containing high amount of zinc. He said that due to Ukraine conflict, India need to grow more wheat but give equal emphasis on increasing production of millets.

In his presidential remarks, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor said that a lot of awareness has been created among farmers about the importance to grow and use millets but there is need of developing marketing facilities at the doorstep of farmers. An MoU has been signed with Indian Institute of Millets Research and the University is working to identify traditional varieties of millets which give high yields. Many programmes have been envisaged to celebrate this International Year of Millets in the University and its all research and extension centres. Prof Chaudhary discussed issues like changing food habits, low cost of production of millets, importance of indigenous knowledge, naturally bio-fortified crops, processing of millets, etc. The Vice Chancellor informed about his fruitful efforts of collaboration with public and private sector to propel research work. He also detailed the distinctive products of all 12 districts of the State and successful efforts of the University in getting national awards to progressive farmers. He asked all participants to use millets in their daily diet and called Amaranthus, Buckwheat and Chenopodium as ABC of millets.

Dr J.C.Rana, country Director, Alliance Biodiversity International and Director, International Centre for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) told that around Rs. 100 crore project has been initiated on mainstreaming agro-biodiversity. It will give good results. He said that a value chain has been developed to conserve traditional landraces. Farmers will grow such crops if they get good prices. All should join hands beginning from grassroots levels.

Dr S.P.Dixit, Director Research that lot of efforts have been made to conserve biodiversity. The state has around one percent biodiversity of the world.

Dr R.K.Chahota, Convener, told that program was jointly organized by the University, Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT with participation of around 15O persons including Shri Nek Ram Sharma, Padam Shri awardee progressive farmer and University Krishi Doot took part in the programme.

CSKHPAU working hard for the aspirations of hill agriculture: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 4 March. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor has informed that CSK H.P. Agriculture University has reoriented its efforts for achieving the aspirations of hill agriculture in Amrit Kaal. He was expressing his views during the inaugural session of annual conference of Vice-Chancellors, directors of the institutes of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and industries today in online mode.

The Vice-Chancellor detailed major efforts of the University in achieving academic excellence, focusing on need based location specific research and extension education efforts involving private sector. The Vice-Chancellor said that the University was working to enhance skill of the farmers by providing them new farm knowledge about new researches and technologies. He informed that 57 progressive farmers including Padam Shree awardee Nek Ram Sharma have been recognized as 'University Krishi Doot' in the last two years.

The University has taken initiative to enhance administrative and financial efficiency and as per the directions of ICAR, the University was also re-orienting All India Coordinated Research Projects to increase output results, etc. He told that his University has taken lead in implementing New Education Policy 2020 and has created state of the art facilities like high tech planting material production unit, high tech plant growth chamber, hydroponic unit, phytotron facility, molecular laboratory, bioagent production unit etc. worth Rs 602.93 lakh. Prof H.K.Chaudhary told that Academic Management System has been implemented where all academic information of faculty and students will be available in cloud and accessible to all from anywhere in the world. He said that an on-line repository of e-lectures in the subjects of agriculture, veterinary and allied sciences is being maintained through Agri Diksha web channel of ICAR through the establishment of High-tech Virtual class rooms facility. Actual Reality and Virtual reality systems have also been established in the university to help the students to learn the practical skills in the different domains of agricultural and veterinary Sciences. Around 50 post graduate students have been benefited through the exposure visits to various international and national institutes. He told that 5 faculty and 8 PG students have attended the international trainings at leading institutions at USA, Australia, Israel and Taiwan.

The University has developed framework for post graduate diploma in Commercial Hybrid Seed Production of Vegetable Crops, Protected Cultivation of Vegetable Crops and Pest Management for the skill enhancement and Startups.

The Vice-Chancellor while detailing rich diversity in the North Western Himalayan region told that the University has taken up in a big way the characterization and purification of the farmers� varieties for their further registration with PPV&FRA to protect the farmers' right and encourage the farmers for conservation of potential landraces of the State. Some farmers� varieties and landraces of the State have been got registered with the PPV&FRA helping farmer communities and individuals receiving ICAR awards. Prof. Chaudhary said that to harness the potential of Plant Genetic Resources of N-W Himalayas, establishment of Germplasm Resource Network was underway. The scientists are mapping the farmers' varieties of the State, sensitizing them and are creating awareness about importance of protection and conservation of traditional crops and varieties. He said that collaborative research was necessary to face emerging challenges and the University has signed 12 MoUs with several premier institutes, industry and private and public sector to conserve and explore rich biodiversity and natural resources of Himalayas and develop market-oriented programs and produce industry ready graduates.

The Vice-Chancellor told that several activities have been planned this year to celebrate International Year of Millets. To improve the nutritive value, the University will popularize use of Millets in food and feed. It will motivate farmers to grow millets and increase their income. He told that Rs. 56 crore project on herbs, medical and aromatic plants have been submitted to the funding agency. It will propel major research activities and extension activities benefitting farmers. The Vice-Chancellor expressed his gratitude to the ICAR for its regular support to the University.

CSKHPAU student to represent India in freestyle wrestling championship at Serbia

Palampur 2 March. Prof H.K.Chaudhary,Vice Chancellor,CSK H.P.Agriculture University has congratulated M.Sc.Agronomy student Mr. Ajay Sindhu for winning gold medal in 65 Kg category Senior Men Freestyle National Wrestling Championship. It was organized by the Sports Authority of India at Hissar recently. The Vice Chancellor extended his best wishes to the student who will represent India in his next competitions with international players in Serbia.

CSKHPAU takes a lead in acquiring drones: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 1 March. CSK H.P. Agriculture University has acquired three drones for demonstrations and use in farming. This was informed by Prof. HK Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor told that after getting funds from the Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research at Ludhiana, the University has taken lead in purchasing drones recently. Under 'Agri Drone Project' three Agri spray drones have been purchased for the demonstration to the farmers at Palampur, eight Krishi Vigyan Kendras, thirteen research stations and farmers' fields all over Himachal Pradesh.

Prof Chaudhary said that the drone technology is emerging at a very fast pace in agriculture. The farm sector is likely to be second largest user of drones in the world in next five years. He said that application of drone technology in agriculture can help to reduce time and increase efficiency in soil and field analysis, crop monitoring and surveillance, crop spraying for pest and disease control, nutrient application, etc. Prof Chaudhary informed that his university will use newly acquired drones to demonstrate the spraying capabilities, crop area mapping, etc. The demonstration will provide exposure to the farmers in the use of drone technology in cost effective and efficient nutrient management.

Initially three University scientists have acquired Director General of Civil Aviation certified remote plane aircraft license for drone flying. They will demonstrate the use to farmers and will train other university scientists in drone policies and flying rules. Prof. H.K.Chaudhary thanked the Indian Council of Agricultural Research for their support in introducing the latest technologies to the hill farmers. He said that the University will work on the economic viability of this technology in hills and will come out with recommendations on use of drones in farming in Himachal Pradesh. This endeavor will open new vistas in the area of artificial intelligence and precision farming.

Dr. D. K. Agarwal, Registrar General and Sh. R. S. Sengar Deputy Registrar of Protection of Plant Varieties & Farmers' Right Authority (PPV&FRA), New Delhi visited CSK H.P. Agriculture University and held discussions with Prof H.K.Chaudhary,Vice-Chancellor regarding registration process of released varieties and farmers' varieties of different crops of Himachal Pradesh.

Prof. H. K. Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor, informed that the State has vast diversity of different crops such as red rice, maize, kulthi, mash, rajmash, millets, chilli, garlic, colocassia, cucumber, reddish, potato, ginger etc. He told that the University has taken up in a big way the characterization and purification of the farmers' varieties for their further registration with PPV&FRA to protect the farmers' right and encourage the farmers for conservation of potential landraces of the State. He said that the 'Him Pratham', first and only doubled haploid wheat variety of the country developed by him ( Prof. H. K. Chaudhary) through chromosome elimination-mediated approach for dry and wet temperate regions of North-West Himalayas has also been registered under PPV&FRA. Chhohartu, a farmers' variety of red rice grown in Chohara and Ransar valleys of Rohru( Shimla) and three landraces of maize namely Hachhi, Ratti and Chitku grown in Salooni block of Chamba have also been registered with the PPV&FRA and both the communities have been awarded with Rs. 10 lakh each under Plant Genome Saviour Community Award by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. The Vice-Chancellor stated that to harness the potential of Plant Genetic Resources of N-W Himalayas, Germplasm Resource Network will be established soon in the University.Prof Chaudhary said that while 28 released varieties have already been registered by the University, application for registration of farmers' varieties of rice, rajmash amd mash have also been submitted to the PPV&FRA and efforts are underway to register more varieties of different crops. Prof Chaudhary informed about the various potential farmers' varieties of different vegetable crops and submission of application of 'Paprola Kheera' for Plant Genome Saviour Farmers' Award.

Dr. D. K. Agarwal appreciated the efforts of the University and emphasized for mapping of farmers' varieties of the State, sensitizing the farmers and creation of awareness among the farmers about importance of protection and conservation of traditional crops and varieties. He congratulated Sh. Nek Ram Sharma, Millet Man of Himachal Pradesh, Padam shree awardee, 2023 for conservation of precious hill traditional crops. Dr. Agarwal assured all sorts of financial and other supports to the University for characterization, purification and conservation of traditional varieties.

Dr S P Dixit, Director of Research, Dr. Swaran Lata, Deputy Registrar (PPV&FRA) at Palampur, Dr. V K Sood, Head, Genetics & Plant Breeding, Dr. Desh Raj Chaudhary, Head, Vegetable Science & Floriculture and other scientists were present during the meeting.

CSKHPAU research scholar leaves for training in Australia.Palampur 10 February. Mr.Shubham Verma, Ph.D scholar of CSK H.P. Agriculture University will undergo one month advanced training at the University of Melbourne, Australia. Before his departure he met Prof. H. K. Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor. The Vice-Chancellor expressed happiness that Mr. Shubham Verma, Ph.D scholar from The Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding will be getting training on advanced techniques on precision breeding for drought tolerance in bread wheat from 14 February to 20 March at Dookie campus of the University of Melbourne. Prof. Chaudhary said that the training will open new vistas to develop drought tolerant varieties in accelerated manner with enhanced precision and efficiency. He said that modern phenomics approaches will be helpful for the study of different morpho-physiological traits conferring drought tolerance and provide opportunities to identify genes associated with drought tolerance traits. The research scholar will work under the guidance of Dr. Dorin Gupta, Associate Professor, Sustainable Agriculture. Dr.Ranbir Singh Rana, Principal Investigator, told that the five scientists and eight students have been sponsored for international trainings on cutting edge technologies under Indian Council of Agricultural Research, National Agricultural Higher Education Project on Centre of Advanced Agricultural Science and Technology on Protected Agriculture and Natural farming. Director research Dr Naveen Kumar and Head of department Dr V.K.Sood were present during the meeting of research scholar with the Vice-Chancellor.

Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences Winners of Youth Festival

Palampur 9 February. Three days inter college youth festival concluded at CSK H.P. Agriculture University with Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences(COVAS) claiming the winning trophy with their spectacular performances.

The College of Agriculture (COA) remained Runners-up. The students of College of Community Science (CCS) and College of Basic Sciences (COBS) also won prizes in different competitions.

Chief Guest Dr.Mandeep Sharma, Dean, COVAS awarded the winners. He congratulated participants and appreciated Students' Welfare Organization. Dr.Daisy Basandrai, Students Welfare Officer told that more than 250 students from four constituent colleges of the University took part in nineteen activities like Light Vocal Music, Group Song, Mono acting, skit, mime , cartooning, rangoli, collage making, clay modeling etc. She thanked teacher incharges of cultural activities and judges. Dr.Sapna Gautam, Coordinator and Dr Virender Pathak, Co-coordinator also spoke on the occasion. All statutory officers, scientists and students were present during the prize distribution ceremony.

Let students spread fragrance of rich hill culture: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 7 February. Three days inter college youth festival began at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today. Around 250 students from the four constituent colleges are taking part in nineteen cultural and literary events.

In his message to the participants, Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, underlined the importance of cultural activities for the holistic development of one's personality. He said that glorious future of our nation in the hands of present young generation and we all should make them strong and visionary and such activities help in improving their communication and cultural skills. He lauded the students for their academic and sports achievements and exhorted them to spread the fragrance of rich and diverse hill culture beyond Himachal Pradesh too. He asked participants to highlight the importance of farm education among school students, village youth and others. He also advised them to celebrate this International Year of Millets with farm families.

Dr.Mandeep Sharma, Dean, Dr G.C. Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences formally inaugurated the festival as a chief guest. Dr.Daisy Basandrai, Students Welfare Officer told that activities like Light Vocal Music, Group Song, Mono acting, skit, mime , cartooning and rangoli will be taken up today. Scientists and students attended the inaugural ceremony.

New Year Address by Vice-Chancellor: Several Programs envisaged to celebrate International Year of Millets

The University has envisaged several programmes to celebrate International year of millets. This was disclosed was Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor in his New Year address to the staff and students on 2nd January. The Vice-Chancellor exhorted students to compete for scholarships for their higher studies at top national and international institutions. He asked scientists to help students in higher research with more than 30 premier institutes who have entered into MoU with the University. The Vice-Chancellor asked each scientist to get minimum Rs. 30 lakh research project sanctioned to propel research and becoming self-reliant in their research needs. He thanked Govt of H.P., ICAR and other funding agencies for their support in fulfilling the given mandate. The Vice-Chancellor released two publications and asked non teaching staff to extend support in executing all programmes expeditiously.

The Republic day was celebrated with patriotic fervour and joy at the University. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor unfurled the National Flag and inspected impressive parade by NCC contingent. During his address to the entire University community, the Vice Chancellor discussed the need to conserve water resources, creating awareness about education in agriculture and animal husbandry, developing entrepreneurship among young farmers, improving marketing, automation of farm machinery, integrated farming systems, etc. He appreciated the Students Welfare Organization for organizing the function meticulously. He also appreciated NCC and NSS cadets for the parade, their various achievements and presenting colourful cultural programme.

Extension & Research Council Meetings: Share knowledge for the common good of all: Prof H.K Chaudhary

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor chaired meetings of Extension Council and Research Council on 30 January. He said that the University involves farmers and other stakeholders while planning its all extension and research plans. He told that Rs. 56 crore project on herbs, medical and aromatic plants have been submitted to the funding agency. Prof Chaudhary advised traditional and scientific knowledge sharing for the common good of humanity. He discussed University efforts in beekeeping, cold water fisheries, backyard poultry farming, protected and integrated agriculture, lavender, saffron and kalazeera , developing entrepreneurship among young farmers, etc.Dr.V.K.Sharma, Director Extension Education; Dr. S.P. Dixit, Director Research; Dr Inder Dev, Director Extension Education, Dr Y.S.Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, progressive farmer members nominated members and representatives of Director Agriculture, Director Animal Husbandry, Director Fisheries, Director, CPRI, head of departments, program coordinators of KVKs and Associate Directors of Research Stations took part in both meetings.

An oath taking ceremony for passing out veterinary graduates was organized on 3 January. Chief Guest Dr D.V.R.Prakash Rao, President, National Academy of Veterinary Sciences, asked veterinarians to become entrepreneurs. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor asked them to serve the livestock keepers and society with complete dedication. The chief guest and Vice-Chancellor distributed internship completion certificates to neo-graduates and released 7 manuals and brochures. Dr Mandeep Sharma, Dean told that 990 graduates have passed out from the College since its establishment. Dr Pankaj Sud, internship incharge, told that 41 graduates have successfully completed their degree program.

Farm sector is to be second largest user of drones in the world: Prof H.K.Chaudhary

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor was Chief Guest during a seminar on 'Application of Drone Technology in Agriculture' and the inaugural ceremony of 'India Agri Progress Expo' at Ludhiana on 21 January. He highlighted the importance of drone technology. He said that the farm sector is likely to be second largest user of drones in the world in next five years. During his visit, Prof. H.K. Chaudhary held a meeting with Dr. S.S. Gosal Vice-Chancellor, PAU and discussed the possibilities of joint collaborations. Separately, all those alumni of CSKHPKV who are pursuing higher studies or serving at PAU and GADVASU also met Prof Chaudhary and honoured him.

The University very first in H.P. to operationalize AI based herd management system

The University has installed herd monitoring system Allflex in Livestock Farm complex. It is very first in Himachal Pradesh. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, who personally monitored and inspected the animals wearing neck bands, equipped with sensors, told that Allflex transmits signal on real time basis about the health, rumination and reproduction status of the cow. It gives regular message to farm manager on his mobile phone regarding animal in estrus, prone to abortion etc. Farm manager upon getting such alerts can verify the input and take necessary steps.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor inaugurated the 'Know Your Army' Mela at the University playground on 24 January. He appreciated the DAH Division for organizing the Mela as part of the Republic Day celebrations and providing information to the students and local public about the great Indian Army. Dr.(Mrs) Parveen Lata Chaudhary, the first lady of the University accompanied Prof H.K.Chaudhary during his visit to the exhibition.

The Centre for Advanced Agricultural Science and Technology on Protected Agriculture and Natural Farming under National Agricultural Higher Education Project has given a big fillip for improving the academics and creating state of the art infrastructure at the University. Disclosing this, Prof. H.K Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, said that under this project, high tech planting material production unit, high tech plant growth chamber, hydroponic unit, phytotron facility, molecular laboratory, bioagent production unit etc. have been created worth Rs 602.93 lakh. Besides adding 105 farm and laboratory equipments, the laboratories, lecture theatre and conference rooms were upgraded with latest technologies and renovation work of polyhouses was also done. Around 50 post graduate students have been benefited through the exposure visits to various international and national institutes.

Vice-Chancellor felicitates University Krishi Doot Padma Shree awardee Nek Ram Sharma

Prof.H.K Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor felicitated University Krishi Doot and progressive farmer Sh Nek Ram Sharma who has been selected for the Padam Shree award this year. The Vice-Chancellor said that he was happy that this talented farmer was recognized as 'University Krishi Doot' by him and has been associated with the University for the last twelve years. Shri Nek Ram Sharma expressed his gratitude to Vice-Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhary for his guidance and regular support from the University scientists.

� Five research project proposals worth Rs. 103.70 lakh entitled "Setting of Model Genome Club in Himachal Pradesh" worth Rs. 28.70 lakh with Dr. V.K. Sood, Principal Scientist & Head, Deptt of Genetics & Plant Breeding, as PI of the project (ii) "Dissemination of Zimikand, Tradi, Dregal and Colocasia production and storage technologies amongst farmers of Himachal Pradesh" worth Rs. 29.50 lakh with Dr. Ravinder Singh, Scientist, Deptt. of Vegetable Science & Floriculture, as PI of the project (iii) "Mass production and utilization of local isolates of Entomopathogenic Fungi for management of white grubs" worth Rs. 9.00 lakh with Dr. Suman Sanjta, Asstt. Prof., Deptt. of Entomology, as PI of the project (iv) "Fungal root endophytes mediated management of root rot of pea under high and mid hill zones of Himachal Pradesh" worth Rs. 9.00 lakh with Dr. Joginder Pal, Asstt. Prof., Research Sub Station, Lari as PI of the project (v) "Rejuvenation of old pecan orchard and creation of facilities for modern nursery production unit for supply virus free quality planting material of important fruit plants including blue berries" worth Rs. 27.50 lakh with Dr. N.D. Negi, Professor, Deptt. of Horticulture & Agroforestry, as PI of the project have been sanctioned under RYVY.

� Six research project proposal worth Rs. 197.50 lakh have been submitted to different funding agencies for consideration and funding.

� The Directorate of Extension Education and KVKs organized 75 training programmes (short and long) on various aspects which were attended by around 1250 farmers (men and women).

� KVKs conducted 16 Front line demonstrations, 11 On-farm trials, 6 field days,1 Kisan Gosthie and 2 farmer-scientist interactions.

� 145 Mobile Advisory services were provided to 5015 farmers through WhatsApp and 7 Kisan Mobile Advisory services were provided through M- Kisan Portal to 53663 farmers.

� Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor inaugurated a five days refresher course on 'Post mortem diagnosis with emphasis on veterolegal investigations' at Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences on 16 January.

� Three day National Fisheries Development Board sponsored training on "Disease and Health Management in Aquaculture" was organized from 10-12 January under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana.

� Around 825 clinical cases were diagnosed and treated in veterinary clinics and around 2000 samples were analyzed. Two clinical camps were also organized.

� Around 355 farmers visited the University Headquarter and KVKs for the technical guidance.

� Mr.Akashdeep Singh, Ph.D scholar of the University will undergo one month's advanced trainings at University of Southern Queensland, Australia. Before his departure he met Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor on 28 January.

� Prof.Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor flagged off 'IFFCO Nano Urea Jan Jagrookta Publicly Van' at the University on 3 January.

Domestic Income : The income as shown in the following table was generated by various wings of the University:

� The funds received from various funding agencies were fully utilized for the payment of salary, wages and retirement benefits, etc.

"Be Good Samaritan to eliminate TB", exhorts Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU

Palampur 02 February. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor has exhorted the university staff and students to extend all support to tuberculosis (TB) patients in their vicinity.

While appreciating the University health centre for organizing an awareness workshop on TB in collaboration with the State Department of Health and Family Welfare, the Vice-Chancellor said that the Govt. of India and the Govt. of H.P. has initiated a massive programme to eliminate TB from the country by 2025 and we all should join hands in this noble effort. He said that he was sure that many staff members will be Good Samaritan and become 'Nikshay Mitra' to adopt TB patients to extend them emotional and nutritional support.

Dr.Gurdarshan Gupta, Chief Medical Officer, Kangra, thanked the Vice-Chancellor and the University Health Centre for the commendable work during Covid-19. He said that since highly qualified people were serving this temple of learning so he expects them to extend all help in this good cause. He said many advanced techniques were available to identify TB microbes and very effective treatment to cure TB patients was in use now. He told that diagnoses and treatment was free of cost.

Dr.Anjana Tuli, Senior Medical Officer from the University Health Centre said that all myths and stigma attached with TB should be removed from the society. Dr. R.K.Sood, District TB Officer detailed many programmes like 'Nikshay Mitra', 'Nikshay Poshan Yojna' etc. where citizens can extend help to eradicate TB.

Besides the staff and students, Shri Sandeep Sud, HAS, Registrar; Sh.B.R.Rathod, Comptroller, Dr Mandeep Sharma, Dean, Dr.Suresh Kumar, Dean PGS, Dr.S.P.Dixit, Director Research, Dr.Pawan Pathania, Librarian and Dr Hirday Paul Singh, Joint Director( Information & Public Relations) were present in the workshop.

Extension & Research Council Meetings at CSKHPAU: Share knowledge freely for the common good of all:Prof H.K Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 30 January. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor chaired meetings of Extension Council and Research Council at CSK H.P.Agriculture University, here today. He said that the University involves farmers and other stakeholders while planning its all extension and research plans. He disclosed that several activities have been planned this year to celebrate International Year of Millets at Palampur and University research and extension centres. To improve the nutritive value, the University will popularise use of Millets in food and feed. It will motivate farmers to grow millets and increase their income. He told that Rs. 56 crore project on herbs, medical and aromatic plants have been submitted to the funding agency. It will propel major research activities and extension activities benefiting farmers. He advised traditional and scientific knowledge sharing for the common good of humanity.

Prof Chaudhary said exemplary work by both farm Universities and departments of agriculture, animal husbandry etc. have drawn the attention of the nation and some farmers have been honoured at the national level. He informed that 57 progressive farmers including Padam Shree awardee Nek Ram Sharma have been recognised as 'University Krishi Doot' in the last two years.

With scientific intervention, the University has helped in popularising crops like red rice, local rajmash, Bayla basmati, urd, Janjheli lahsun, Kala Zeera, Nirmand area kulth, Nadauni raddish, garlic, etc helping farmers to earn more from such area specific traditional crops. He discussed University efforts in beekeeping, cold water fisheries, backyard poultry farming, protected and integrated agriculture, levender, saffron and kalazeera , developing entrepreneurship among young farmers, etc. He said that collaborative research was necessary to face emerging challenges and the University has signed MoUs with several premier institutes to conserve and explore rich biodiversity and natural resources of Himalayas.

Dr.V.K.Sharma, Director Extension Education detailed major activities, achievements and future programs in extension education at the University and its eight Krishi Vigyan Kendras.

Dr. S.P. Dixit, Director Research told that in the recent past, 29 improved varieties of different crops have been released, 14 farm technologies have been developed, two patents have been obtained and GI registration of Kala Zeera has also been facilitated.

Most of the members suggested creating awareness among farmers about animal breeds, improving quality of mineral mixture for cattle, curbing the excessive use of chemicals in vegetable crops, increasing income of farmers by different farm avocations, availability of University fodder varieties for winters, popularising organic products, etc.

Shri Sandeep Sood, HAS, Registrar, Sh S.L.Negi, Comptroller and other statutory officers, Dr Inder Dev, Director Extension, Dr Y.S.Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, social worker and progressive farmer members Suman Lata, Lekh Raj Rana, Hima Ram Shastri, Kundan Singh Shastri, Sundar Sharma and nominated members Dr Amar Singh and Dr Satish Guleria and representatives of Director Agriculture, Director Animal Husbandry, Director Fisheries, Director, Central Potato Research Institute, University statutory officers, heads, program coordinators of Krishi Vigyan Kendras and Associate Directors of Research Stations also took part in both meetings.

Palampur 28 January. Mr.Akashdeep Singh, Ph.D scholar of CSK H.P. Agriculture University will undergo one month�s advanced trainings at University of Southern Queensland, Australia. Before his departure he met Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor here today.

The Vice-Chancellor expressed happiness that Mr.Akashdeep Singh, Ph.D scholar from the Department of Agronomy will be getting training on Modelling of rice cropping systems for bioenergy production and reduced greenhouse gas emissions from 1-28 February at the Institute of Life Sciences and Environment University of Southern Queensland.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor said that crop simulation models are used to assess the impact of changing climate on the agriculture production systems. These provide opportunities to build scenarios of agriculture output in changing climates and help to compare experimental findings across various sites to devise management strategies for wider environments. He asked the research scholar to explore the potential of new cultivars and management strategies.

Dr.Naveen Kumar, Head, Department of Agronomy told that Dr.A.D.Bindra is guide of Akashdeep Singh and during one month training, the research scholar will work under the guidance of Dr. Keith Pembleton, Chair of Agriculural Production Systems Simulator Initiative. Dr. Ranbir Singh Rana, Principal Investigator, told that the five scientists and seven students have been sponsored for international trainings on cutting edge technologies under Indian Council of Agricultural Research, National Agricultural Higher Education Project on Centre of Advanced Agricultural Science and Technology on Protected Agriculture and Natural farming.

The Vice-Chancellor felicitates University Krishi Doot Nek Ram Sharma for his selection for Padma Shree award

Palampur 27 January. Prof.H.K Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor felicitated University Krishi Doot and progressive farmer Shri Nek Ram Sharma who has been selected for the Padam Shree award this year.

Prof. Chaudhary, while congratulating Shri Nek Ram Sharma for being selected for the coveted national award by the Govt. of India, lauded his achievements in conservation and propagation of traditional crops including millets. He said that Shri Sharma has inspired and motivated farmers of the State and neighboring states to conserve and grow such crops. He is also popularizing organic and natural farming. The Vice-Chancellor said that he was happy that this talented farmer was recognized as 'University Krishi Doot' by him and has been associated with the University scientists and Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Mandi for the last twelve years. Prof Chaudhary said that it was a matter of pride that he is the first farmer from H.P. who will be receiving Padma Shree award. He said that it was heartening that some other University Krishi Doots were also awarded other national level awards in the recent past.

Shri Nek Ram Sharma expressed his gratitude to Vice-Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhary for his guidance and regular support from the University scientists and working in collaboration with KVK, Mandi.

Dr Pankaj Sood, Programme Coordinator, KVK Mandi, Shri Sita Ram Verma, President, Himachal Kisan Union and progressive farmers Sh Sanjay Kumar, Sh.Kundan Lal and Sh.Parma Ram Chaudhary were also present during felicitation ceremony.

Republic Day celebrated with patriotic fervour at CSKHPAU: Palampur 26 January. The Republic day was celebrated with patriotic fervour and joy at CSK H.P.Agriculture University, here today. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor unfurled the National Flag and inspected impressive parade by NCC contingent. During his address to the entire University community, the Vice Chancellor, recalled the sacrifices by freedom fighters and farsighted vision of national leaders which enabled the country to traverse glorious path of progress in the last 74 years. He detailed great achievements in the areas of agriculture which transformed country from food deficit to food surplus nation.He discussed efforts in conservation of biodiversity and other natural resources by various national level institutes. The Vice Chancellor discussed progress made by Himachal Pradesh and extended greetings to the 'University Krishi Doot' and progressive farmer Nek Ram Sharma for getting Padam Shree Award this year.

He also extended greetings on the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami and asked the teachers to help students become best citizens serving the society with full dedication. Prof Chaudhary detailed major achievements of the University in academics, research and extension education. He said that University has remarkably fulfilled its mandate and has brought name and fame in hill agriculture. He asked scientists to help farmers in conserving rich biodiversity and natural resources of Himalayas. It is important for the entire humanity.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary discussed the need to conserve water resources, creating awareness about education in agriculture and animal husbandry, developing entrepreneurship among young farmers, improving marketing, automation of farm machinery, use of artificial intelligence and drone technology in precision farming, integrated farming systems, nutracutical crops, vertical farming etc. He said that it is important to adopt modern farming and the University has made efforts to develop collaboration with several top international and national institutes.

The Vice Chancellor appreciated the Students Welfare Organisation for organizing the function meticulously. He also appreciated NCC and NSS cadets for the parade, their various achievements and presenting colourful cultural programme. All Statutory Officers, staff and their families and students attended the celebrations

Farm sector is to be second largest user of drones in the world: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU

Palampur 21 January. "The drone technology is emerging at a very fast pace in agriculture. The farm sector is likely to be second largest user of drones in the world in next five years" opined Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University.

As a Chief Guest during a seminar on 'Application of Drone Technology in Agriculture' and the inaugural ceremony of 'India Agri Progress Expo' at Ludhiana today, the Vice-Chancellor highlighted the importance of drone technology. He said that it can help to reduce time and increase efficiency in soil and field analysis, crop monitoring and surveillance, crop spraying for pest and disease control, nutrient application, etc. Prof Chaudhary also spoke on the future technologies in farming, need to follow protocols for spray through drones in different cops, role of remote sensing technology and detailed plans of his University to popularise millets during in this International Year of Millets.

He appreciated Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute (ATARI) of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and Punjab Agricultural University for jointly organising the seminar. He also appreciated the Punjab State Agricultural Implements Association and Agricultural Machinery Manufacturers Association for organizing exhibition with the participation of large numbers of manufacturers and firms from all over the country and invited them to his University for creating awareness among hill farmers about the utility of new technology.

Dr. Nachiket Kotwaliwale, Director, ICAR CIPHET was Guest of Honour in the function. Dr.Rajbir Singh, Director, ATARI told that a large number of scientists, extension agencies, policy makers, machine manufacturers and farmers are attending the two days expo.

NAHEP gives a big fillip in academics and state of the art infrastructure at CSKHPAU: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 20 January. The Centre for Advanced Agricultural Science and Technology on Protected Agriculture and Natural Farming under National Agricultural Higher Education Project has given a big fillip for improving the academics and creating state of the art infrastructure at CSK H.P. Agriculture University.

Disclosing this, Prof. H.K Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, said that under this project, high tech planting material production unit, high tech plant growth chamber, hydroponic unit, phytotron facility, molecular laboratory, bioagent production unit etc. have been created worth Rs 602.93 lakh. Besides adding 105 farm and laboratory equipments, the laboratories, lecture theatre and conference rooms were upgraded with latest technologies and renovation work of polyhouses was also done. Around 50 post graduate students have been benefited through the exposure visits to various international and national institutes. As a result of participation in capacity development program, 24 M.Sc and 18 Ph.D. students have been assigned research topics in different thematic areas of protected agriculture and natural farming.

The Vice-Chancellor said that the ambitious project has enabled the University to develop linkages with prestigious national and international organizations and more than 12 MoUs have been signed with private sector, industry and public sector organizations to develop market-oriented programs and produce industry ready graduates. He told that 5 faculty and 8 PG students have attended the international trainings at leading institutions at USA, Australia, Israel and Taiwan. The project has also developed framework for post graduate diploma in Commercial Hybrid Seed Production of Vegetable Crops, Protected Cultivation of Vegetable Crops and Pest Management under Protected Cultivation for the skill enhancement and Startups. Two alumni of the University have established their own Startups.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary said that Academic Management System developed under this project has been implemented in which all academic information of faculty and students will be available in cloud and accessible to all from anywhere in the world. It is a milestone of e- Governance in the university. He said that an on-line repository of e-lectures in the subjects of agriculture, veterinary and allied sciences is being maintained through Agri Diksha web channel of ICAR through the establishment of High-tech Virtual class rooms facility. Actual Reality and Virtual reality systems have also been established in the university to help the students to learn the practical skills in the different domains of agricultural and veterinary Sciences. Around 43 national and international seminars have been organized benefitting around 6500 faculty and PG students.

The outputs of the project mainly signify cutting- edge technologies of Natural Farming under Protected Agriculture and open environment. These technologies are climate resilient and will help to conserve environment sustainability in hill and mountain states of the country. This Centre of Excellence shall prove as advanced centre at national level for faculty and students to carry out the research work in the domain. More than 13 technologies have been generated in Protected Agriculture and Natural Farming. Agricultural Higher Education Awareness Programme to school students was also undertaken to enhance prospects of agricultural education profession and entrepreneurship. Large number of farmers has been benefitted on campus training programme and exposure visits.

The Vice-Chancellor expressed his gratitude to the Indian Council of Agricultural Research and the world bank for identifying his University as leading national Centre of Excellence for Advanced Agricultural Science and Technology on Protected Agriculture and Natural farming under National Agricultural Higher Education Project worth Rs.18.91crore. Prof. Chaudhary appreciated Dr Ranbir Singh Rana, Principal Investigator and his strong team of 18 scientists, three consultants and 54 supporting scientific staff. He said the hard working team has been able to achieve the deliverable outcome despite Covid-19 during the initial phase of the project

CSKHPAU very first in H.P. to opertionalise Artificial Intelligence based herd management system: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 17 January. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University has installed herd monitoring system Allflex in Livestock Farm complex. It is very first in Himachal Pradesh.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, who personally monitored and inspected the animals wearing neck bands, equipped with sensors, told that Allflex transmits signal on real time basis about the health, rumination and reproduction status of the cow. It gives alerts on mobile phone of the staff, in case the animal is in heat for artificial insemination or the animal is having any digestion upsets. These sensors monitor the rumination, activity and health status of animal and transmit it through a centrally located transmitter to artificial intelligence based software, which interprets the signals on real time basis. The system analyzes these inputs and gives regular message to farm manager on his mobile phone regarding animal in estrus, prone to abortion etc. Farm manager upon getting such alerts can verify the input and take necessary steps. Prof Chaudhary informed that initially 20 cows have been equipped with neck bands. This artificial intelligent based health monitoring system can cover 5000 animals with air distance of 100 meter and has been installed for the first time in the state of Himachal Pradesh for demonstration to the visiting farmers and entrepreneurs. He said that for improving the welfare of dairy animals, a music system and automatic groomer has also been installed in dairy unit.

The Vice Chancellor told that instructions have been passed to further strengthen it so that dairy unit becomes a model demonstration unit for farmers and others.

During the visit of Vice-Chancellor, Dean Dr Mandeep Sharma, Director Extension Dr V K Sharma, Dr R Kumar, Associate Director Research and Dr.S.Katoch, Head, Livestock Farm Complex were present.

Vice-Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhary inaugurates Refresher Course on 'Post mortem diagnosis with emphasis on veterolegal investigations'

Palampur 16 January. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor inaugurated a five days refresher course on 'Post mortem diagnosis with emphasis on veterolegal investigations' at Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences at CSK H.P.Agriculture University, here today.

While addressing trainees and other scientists, the Vice-Chancellor, said that technological interventions have become important in the post mortem of animals and birds. He expressed his anguish that the society has lost love and care for animals. He said that abandoned cattle on roads tell the story of selfishness of livestock keepers. He asked trainees and scientists to think over the matter seriously helping to resolve this issue. The Vice-Chancellor advised controlling strictly the artificial insemination by untrained and unskilled people. This has aggravated the problem of abandoned cattle. He said that while performing post mortems, veterinarians must be careful in sample collection stage to scientific and legal report writing. He also discussed issues like collecting and converting dung to vermi compost, providing remunerative price of milk to farmers, animal disease Investigation, etc and expressed the hope that veterinary officers will give useful inputs. Prof Chaudhary also asked all those trainees who had been alumni of the University to help create and strengthen new facilities like training guest house in the veterinary college. He also released a booklet related to the course. Dean Dr Mandeep Sharma asked trainees to become master trainers for other veterinarians in their area. He said that continuous veterinary education is important for upgrading the skills of field veterinarians. Course director Dr R.K. Asrani told that it was the second course in the series where 25 veterinary officers from the State Department of Animal Husbandry are taking part in it. Drs. Rakesh Kumar and R.D. Patil also expressed his views. Besides the University Statutory Officers and head of departments, Dr Sandip Mishra, Assistant Director from State department of animal husbandry took part in the inaugural ceremony

Veterinarians asked to take up entrepreneurship by Chief Guest Dr D.V.R.Prakash Rao

Palampur 3 January. An oath taking ceremony for passing out veterinary graduates was organised at CSK H.P.Agriculture University, here today.Chief Guest Dr D.V.R.Prakash Rao, President, National Academy of Veterinary Sciences, said that knowledge has no boundaries. He asked veterinarians not to look for jobs but become entrepreneurs. Dr Rao said that animal husbandry sector was fast growing sector and technological intervention can play an important role in it. He said that animal protein has huge demand in the country and associated industries have come up providing large number of jobs. The Chief Guest asked veterinarians to access the future needs and start ventures as capital was readily available. He provided detailed information about enterprises, startups and animal husbandry based industries.

In his presidential remarks, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor while congratulating the neo graduates asked them to serve the livestock keepers and society with complete dedication. He said that as animals can not speak so they need much care and compassion. The Vice-Chancellor said that livestock keepers face multiple challenges and artificial insemination by untrained persons have aggrieved their problems."Abandoned cattle on roads needs introspection by the ones who have taken professional oath", asked Vice-Chancellor.He asked all concerned to accord due status of 'mother' to cows. Prof Chaudhary discussed issues like entrepreneurship, balanced nutrition and timely vaccination of cattle, sheep, goat, etc. The Vice-Chancellor asked veterinarians to grasp traditional knowledge and system too.

The chief guest and Vice-Chancellor distributed internship completion certificates to neo-graduates. They also released 7 manuals and brochures, including a guidebook in Hindi on lumpy skin disease.

Dr Mandeep Sharma, Dean, Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, told that 990 graduates have passed out from the College since its establishment in 1986.He detailed major achievements of his college. He said that Advanced Veterinary Multi-speciality Centre, Animal Disease Investigation Laboratory and Livestock Farms are three vital windows of the college. He administered professional oath to neo-graduates.

Dr Pankaj Sud, internship incharge, told that 41 graduates, including 23 girls have successfully completed their B.V.Sc.& AH degree program.

Besides the parents of neo-graduates, all Statutory Officers and scientists attended the solemn ceremony.

Several Programs involving farmers envisaged to celebrate International Year of Millets: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU

Palampur 2 January. CSK H.P.Agriculture University has envisaged several programmes to celebrate International year of millets. This was disclosed was Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor in his New Year address to the staff and students, here today. The Vice-Chancellor exhorted students to be always inquisitive to assimilate relevant knowledge to optimum capacity and compete for scholarships for their higher studies at top national and international institutions. He asked scientists to help students in higher research with more than 30 premier institutes who have entered into MoU with the University. Prof Chaudhary also discussed initiatives for entrepreneurship and placement of scholars. The Vice-Chancellor asked each scientist to get minimum Rs. 30 lakh research project sanctioned to propel research and becoming self-reliant in their research needs. He said that nobody should underestimate one's competence and capacity and work for exploring the potential of great Himalayas in collaboration with international premier institutes. Prof. H.K.Chaudhary exhorted collaboration and coordination with industries too. The Vice-Chancellor said that this is International Year of Millets and four important millets are grown in H.P. "The University has planned several programmes like fairs, seminars, discussions, etc to celebrate it involving all stakeholders, including famers", disclosed Prof H.K.Chaudhary. The University has signed MoU with the Indian Institute of Millets Research, Hyderabad three months back. He told that some volunteer centres will be established to expedite research in millets and other crops at the University and its research centers. He thanked Govt of H.P. , Indian Council of Agricultural Research(ICAR) and other funding agencies for their support in fulfilling the given mandate in academics, research and extension education. He said that some remote areas like Bharmour and Pangi need independent Krishi Vigyan Kendras(KVK) as such areas have distinctive farming and animal husbandry needs. The University has approached ICAR for sanctioning KVKs in such areas. He discussed digitization, new challenges, need of fund generation, new infrastructure, etc. He suggested that all retiring professors should deliver a lecture of their achievements and contributions to the University and society. The Vice-Chancellor released two publications and asked non teaching staff to extend support in executing all programmes expeditiously. Shri Sandeep Sood, HAS, Registrar, Dr. Mandeep Sharma, Dean, Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences and Dr.Suresh Upathyay also expressed their views Earlier, the programme started with the University Anthem, lighting of lamp and Saraswati Vandna.All statutory officers, heads, teaching and non teaching staff and students attended the programme.

CSKHPAU making efforts to get GIs for crops and other products of H.P.: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 6 December.CSK H.P. Agriculture University has initiated active efforts to get Geographical Indications (GI) for important crops of Himachal Pradesh.After getting GIs, the farmers or other owners get special rights over these distinct crops and reap rich dividends by selling such crops or products. According to Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, the crops selected for GI are Japonica red rice of H.P.; Bharmour, Barot and Kinnaur rajmash; Karsog, Shilai and Chamba urdbean; Karsog kulthi; Kullu, Kangra and Mandi red rice; chukh of Chamba, antique jewellary of Chamba; animal breeds and their products etc. He disclosed that there are a good number of field crops like rice, barley, rajmash, kulthi, mash, potential crops like buckwheat, amaranthus, chenopodium, millets, kala zeera, orchids, bamboo, forages,, garlic, ginger, red ginger, zimikand, cucumber,kakadi ,ghandiyali, radish, kakora, Tardi, lingroo,etc and animals like Pahari cattle and buffalo (Gojri); Spiti horse; Spiti donkey; Rampur-bushair and gaddi sheep; cheegu and gaddi goats, Himachali yak , snow trout; golden mahseer, carps and hill stream fish, etc which have drawn the attention of the University for GI. He said that unique traditional jewellery of gaddi women like chak and chiri, chandan har and champakali, loung, koka, tilli and balu, bunde, jhumke, kante, latkni; tungni and kanphuls, gojru, toke,kangnu, snangu , singhi and pari and medical products like white honey from Bharmaur; aphids honey dew from Lahaul Spiti and Kinnaur, wild mushroom (Kirajari), Spiti Chharma and woolen products like charkhani pattu, dohroo, pude and pashmina from cheegu goat,etc have been short listed for GIs.

The Vice-Chancellor said that the university is collaborating with H.P. Council for Science, Technology and Environment(HIMCOSTE), Himachal Pradesh Patent Implementation Centre, Shimla for its efforts to get GIs as scientific and technical data has to be generated for each and every crop, animal or other distinct products where there is possibility of getting GI.

The Vice-Chancellor told that in the recent past, the University made successful efforts and got certain research projects sanctioned which will help in determining the distinct traits of the selected crops. The Govt. of Himachal Pradesh has sanctioned funds to the tune of Rs.2.50 crore and the University has planned to utilize it for establishing the CSKHPKV Germplasm Resource Network, a basic and most coveted facility to conserve the precious treasure of Himalayan crops, plant land races for the future posterity and sustainable utilization of the novel genes in on-going improvement endevours for varied agroclimatic conditions of North_West Himalyan regions especially H.P.. It will also open a new horizon for establishing linkages and sharing precious genetic treasure with rest past the country and other nations by attracting International collaborations and signing MoUs.

HIMCOSTE has sanctioned some project to generate the requisite information. These include 'Generation of GI related information in Karsog kulthi (Horsegram) and Registration under Geographical Indications of Goods, Rules 2002 project worth Rs 1.17 lakh, 'Generation of GI related information in red rice of Himachal Pradesh and Registration under Geographical Indications of Goods, Rules 2002 worth Rs 1.37, GI tag for foods of Himachal Pradesh- Unique foods of Himachal Pradesh chukh of Chamba district worth Rs 1.17 lakh.

Supported with the scientific and technical inputs, the University helped farmers to apply for national awards. Sh Nandu Ram from Palampur was awarded National Breed Conservation Award 2021 under individual category (small ruminants) for Gaddi goat breed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research- National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal in last December. The farmers of Bhaddal Panchayat of Chamba district also got Plant Genome Saviour Community Award for conserving land races of maize namely Haachi (white), Retti (red) and chitkuri (popcorn) and Red rice farmers of Rohru (Shimla) bagged 'Plant Genome Saviour Award 2021 for preserving red rice variety Chhohartu.' Further, such efforts are afoot to get awards for Kala zira, rajmash, urdbean, kulthi and ginger.

The University is also helping in Registration of Farmers varieties with Protection of Plant Varieties with Farmers' Right Authority, Govt of India. Ratti, Hachhi Kukadi and Chitku landraces of Maize from Salooni (Chamba) and Chhohartu land race of Red Rice from Chirgaon, Rohru were registered. Similarly, the University helped in Registration of eight Animal breeds with NBAGR Karnal. These are Gaddi Sheep, Rampur-Bushair Sheep, Gaddi Goat, Chegu Goat, Spiti Horse, Spiti Donkey, Himachali Pahari Cattle and Gojri Buffalo. The University scientists generated relevant technical and scientific data for registration.

Prof Chaudhary informed that the University has also registered five RNA and DNA sequences of genes of important traits with National Center for Biotechnology Information.

Recently the University has also registered HBL 391 (Gokul) variety of Barley, and eight other varieties of Lentil, Soybean, Wheat, Field pea and Chickpea. The University also got registration of Garden pea germplasm, Wild lentil and Chickpea germplasm with National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources. He said that 'Intellectual Property Rights-Policy guidelines' have also been published for scientists and farmers to understand the intricacies of this process. From time to time conferences are organized on GIs and Intellectual Property Rights. Field days are organized to create awareness for Geographical Indications and help is extended in formation of farmers groups for GI.

Recently the University has helped farmers from Jia ( Palampur), Prini and Baragaon from Kullu and Lusasana( Mandi ) in applying registration of red rice farmers varieties Kaalijhini , Matali Jatoo and RR 575 under PPV & FRA.

Refresher course on 'Post mortem diagnosis with emphasis on veterolegal investigations

Palampur 5 December.A five days refresher course on 'Post mortem diagnosis with emphasis on veterolegal investigations' began at Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences at CSK H.P.Agriculture University, here today.Chief Guest Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor, in his inaugural address declared to open modern post modem centre in the University to give precise opinion and training.He said that we need to give equal status to animals as we give to human beings while performing Post mortems. "Moreover, for performing Post mortem, special care for sample collection to scientific and legal report writing requires thorough knowledge for which such trainings are very important ", opined Prof. Chaudhary.He underlined the importance of animals in human life and exhorted all to treat them as family members as they respond with much love. He said that cruelty against animals must be stopped .He cited the example of abandoned cattle which has created multiple problems in the society due to cruelty against them by owners.He also advised not to disturb ecology and plant fruit trees in jungles so that monkeys and other animals need not leave their habitat for searching food outside. He asked organisers to honour the first three trainees after taking their test at the end of course. The Vice Chancellor expressed happiness that specialists from top veterinary institutes will be importing trainings to officers and they should attend it devotedly. He also released 20 pamphlets and posters related to the course.

Dean Dr Mandeep Sharma said that outreach programs sharpen the skills of field officers.He asked trainees to become master trainers for other veterinarians. Course director Dr R.K.Asrani told that 20 veterinary officers from State Department of Animal Husbandry are taking part in it. Drs. Rakesh Kumar and R.D.Patil also expressed his views. Besides the University Statutory Officers and head of departments, Dr Sandip Mishra, Joint Director from State Department of Animal Husbandry was present in the inaugural ceremony

Palampur 18 November. Dr.G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences won overall trophy in the annual inter-college games that concluded at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today. The College of Agriculture remained runner up. After awarding the winners of various games, Chief Guest Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor said that he was happy that the participating students have shown exemplary discipline and played the games with a true sportsman spirit. He declared that the Students' Welfare Organisation will create all necessary amenities and facilities for the players enabling them to excel in their respective game and bring laurels to the University. While the men and women teams of Dr.G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Science remained winners in Table Teninis, Volleyball and Powerliftng, the men and women teams of College of Agriculture were declared winners in Badminton and Chess.

The men team of COVAS was winner in weight lifting and the team of COA remained runners up. In football, the men team of COA was winner and the team of College of Community Science was runner up. Dr. Daisy Basandrai, Students' Welfare Officer, told that sixty teams comprising 501 boys and girls took part in fifteen events. All the Statutory officers, scientists and students attended the inaugural ceremony.

Games essential for physical and mental fitness: Prof H.K.Chaudhay, Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 14 November. Annual inter-college games began at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

In his inaugural address Chief Guest Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor said that sports play a pivotal role in the development of students' personalities. "The sports help in physical and mental fitness as they develop stamina, a sense of team spirit, brotherhood, friendliness, fairness and competitiveness too", opined Prof Chaudhary. He asked the participants to play the games with joy and sportsmanship. The Vice-Chancellor informed that a mega project has been submitted to the Govt of India for development of sports complex which will enable the University to organise such events at a larger scale. He expressed happiness that the Students' Welfare Organisation has been able to hold games after three years. Earlier games could not be conducted due to the pandemic. He directed the organisation to organise inter-university games, athletic meets and youth festivals in the coming times. Earlier the Vice-Chancellor inspected inaugural parade by the sportspersons and he was introduced to the contingents of all four constituent colleges.

Dr.Daisy Basandrai, Students' Welfare Officer, told that around 480 boys and girls were taking part in eight games like Badminton, Table Tennis, Chess, Volleyball, Basketball Football, Power, and Weight Lifting. All the Statutory officers, scientists and students attended the inaugural ceremony.

Dr.Taisuke Kanao from Yamagata University, Japan delivers an expert lecture at CSK H.P. Agriculture University

Palampur 5 November. Under the international expert lecture series, Dr.Taisuke Kanao, scientist from Yamagata University Japan, delivered an interactive lecture on termites and other associated insects at CSK H.P. Agriculture University.

Speaking to the research scholars and scientists, Dr Kanao detailed species diversity and evolutionary history of termitophilous rove beetles. He also spoke on the importance, diversity and co-evolution of termites and termitophiles and shared his experiences.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor told that Dr. Kanao is a member of international termite research team and CSK H.P. Agriculture University will also join the team soon to strengthen the research work on termites in India. He said that there is need to study diversity of termites and significance of thermitophiles in the country. The Vice-Chancellor asked the Head of Entomology Department to explore the possibility of signing MoU with Yamagata University, Japan so that the research scholars and other students may get new inputs for their research work. He asked Dr. Kanao to help in strengthening termite research work in the University and co-operate in joint research publications.

Dr.Ravinder Singh Chandel, head of the department told that Dr. Kanao is on a fortnight visit to the University and has conducted a joint survey work with scientists on termites in Sirmour, Hamripur and Kangra districts. His interaction with the scientists and students have remained very productive.

The talk was organized by the Department of Entomology under National Agricultural Higher Education Project. Around 150 persons attended the talk in offline and online mode.

New Education Policy to be implemented seamlessly: Vice-Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhary

Palampur 1 November. With the active participation of staff and students, the 45th foundation day of CSK H.P. Agriculture University was celebrated with joy and zeal at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today. In his address to the University community, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor asked them to introspect, plan and execute new plans to serve the farming community with renewed enthusiasm. He vividly recalled the development phase of this hill farm varsity and the present status when it's among top ten agricultural universities of the country. He said that despite several achievements in its kitty, the University is to move ahead with faster pace facing new challenges. "For serving the farmers, students and other clients, out of box thinking is a must", advised Prof Chaudhary. He expressed the hope that brilliant students, innovative scholars and all concerned will work in cohesion to bring laurels to the institution with remarkable achievements in coming times.The Vice-Chancellor said that quality research needs passion, complete dedication and untiring hard work. He said that each and every employee needs to pay back to the society with his love for the assigned job, seeking assistance of all and doing something extra for the students, farmers and society. He asked scientist to help the students in applying for national awards and foreign fellowships. The Vice-Chancellor expected students to always seek guidance and express gratitude to their teachers. Prof Chaudhary also asked other staff to cooperate with each other for high quality and timely office work. He expressed the hope that unison among all components will raise the status of the University and enable it to implement New Education Policy seamlessly.While exhorting the young and newly recruited scientists and staff to work relentlessly for the welfare of farmers of the State, the Vice-Chancellor expressed his gratitude to all those who laid firm foundation of the institution. He said that several heads, hearts and hands have contributed dedicatedly to successfully fulfil the given responsibilities of academics, research and extension education. He elaborated about many inter institutional collaborations and new initiatives taken in the last one year. The Vice-Chancellor released a booklet entitled 'Significant Achievements of CSKHPKV' and some other publications to mark the occasion. The students presented a colourful extravaganza with several cultural items. The students also presented a short documentary on the University.Dr.Daizy Basandrai, Students' Welfare Officer welcomed all. Drs Gitanjali Singh and Janardan Singh, Presidents of Teachers' Unions, Shri Rajeev Sharma, President, Non-teaching employees union and other statutory officers detailed major achievements. Dr Suresh Upadhyay skilfully compared the programme.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. H.K.Chaudhary asks students to work for unity, integrity and security of the nation.

Palampur 31 October. The birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was observed as 'Rashttirya Ekta Diwas' at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today. Prof. H.K.Chaudhary,Vice-Chancellor flagged off 'Run for Unity' rally and all the NCC cadets, NSS volunteers and other students enthusiastically took part in it.

Later, in his address to the participants and the University staff, the Vice-Chancellor asked the students and staff to imbibe great virtues of Sardar Sahib like relentless work for national integration, unity, integrity and security of the nation. He vividly recalled the huge role of Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel for integrating the nation with his statesmanship. The national unity day pledge was administered to all the participants. All the offices in the University also took pledge for preserving the unity, integrity and security of the nation.

Palampur 26 October.The University tea gardens will soon undergo a transformation with addition of a cafeteria. This was disclosed by Prof H.K Chaudhary,Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P.Agriculture University, here today. He said that a plan has been envisaged to link the University tea gardens with tea tourism, excursions, etc. The Vice-Chancellor visited the Orthodox Tea Garden of the Department of Tea Husbandry &Technology and sought details about the on-going activities like processing of Orthodox Black and Green Tea. Prof. Chaudhary said that the tea of this hill state has been accepted at higher standards in quality and taste by several experts and has got wider acceptability in urban areas of the country. He said that high polyphenols in green tea help in improving metabolism as compared to black tea, thereby making the green tea much popular amongst the health conscious urban population.

Prof. Chaudhary appreciated the efforts of Dr.Sanjay Kumar and his team including Dr Parmod Verma and other staffers in the department.

CSKHPAU to extend all assistance to Gaddi farmers:Prof H.K.Chaudhary,Vice-Chancellor

Vice-Chancellor Prof H. K. Chaudhary,Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P.Agriculture University visited Bharmani and other villages in Bharmour area of Chamba district today. He interacted with shepherds and assured them to extend services of veterinary scientists to resolve their sheep and goat related problems. The shepherds informed that they face lot of problems during the migration from mountains of Chamba to lower area of Himachal Pradesh during winter and back in summer. They informed that the major problem like catching infectious Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) or hoof-and-mouth disease (HMD) cause huge loss to their herds. They urged the Vice-Chancellor to render medical facility to their herds during outbreak of such fatel disease. The other problem they discussed was to suggest them the technology to improve and increase the quality and production of wool. Their concern was that the new generation is not adopting this profession and looking for other professions.

The Vice-chancellor gave them complete information on their problems and assured them all sorts of assistance from the University. He shared with them the telephone numbers of concerned departments and scientists of Dr. G C Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences of the University to be used by them as and when needed. The Vice-Chancellor advised these shepherds to visit the College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences of the University to have detailed information about their problems. Prof Chaudhary spent a complete day with shepherds and their herd. The Vice-chancellor called upon the youth of the area to adopt sheep-goat rearing profession as the University shall be making GIS mapping of their camps in pastures and migratory routes. The university may provide assistance to the youth for modernization of this profession with technological intervention. They can make use of IT tools for resolving their problems and university will take care of their problems.

The shepherds thanked the Vice-Chancellor for disseminating the information to them at their camp at such a far flung and tribal area of Chamba district. Dr SP Dixit, Director of Research, Dr. S S Rana, Scientist Incharge and scientists of MARES, Salooni were present on the occasion.

Vice-Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhary congratulates Sachin Sharma for getting Doctoral Fellowship in USA

Palampur. 15 October. Prof. H.K Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor has congratulated Mr. Sachin Sharma, M.Sc. student of CSK H.P. Agriculture University who has been selected with full scholarship of Rs. 76 lakh for doctoral studies at well known Montana State University, USA.

Mr. Sachin Sharma, a student of the Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, has been selected for a doctoral scholarship in the Plant Sciences and Plant Pathology Department of Montana State University, USA. He has obtained his graduation also from this University.

The Vice-Chancellor expressed happiness that the student will get a grant of Rs.19 lakh per annum by the US government for the next four years. He will be pursuing research on "Mechanism of antibiotic production in Ralstonia species". The Vice-Chancellor also appreciated Dr. Pardeep Kumar, major advisor of the student and Dr. D. K Banyal, Head of the Department. He said that it was creditable that another student of the University B.J. Raju, was selected with a scholarship of Rs.1.20 crore for doctoral studies at Clemson University, USA in May, this year. He asked other students to emulate both brilliant students who have brought laurels to the University, their teachers and their parents.

Mr. Sachin credited the achievement to his parents, his MSc. research guide, the head of the department and the faculty of the Department of Plant Pathology.

CSKHPAU and ICAR-IIMR, Hyderabad sign MoU to promote and enhance scientific interaction

Palampur 4 October. CSK H.P. Agriculture University and Indian Institute of Millets Research, Hyderabad have signed a MoU to promote and enhance scientific and academic interaction between both institutes.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor told that under this MoU, research work on millet research will be expedited like Millets breeding including germplasm exchange, crop improvement, processing and value addition. He told that IIMR is a premier research institute of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research.

Prof Chaudhary told that research instrumentation and library facilities available with the two Institutions will be made available to the faculty and research scholars of each other. It will be helpful to the PG students of the University for conducting research related to the thesis requirements. IIMR and CSKHPAU will undertake joint research work in the areas of millets interest. The scientists of both institutions will formulate research projects and HRD plans for joint work. Apart from this, joint sponsored and consultancy projects could be undertaken with long term and short term goals. He said that the collaboration will benefit in sharing and exchange of germplasm of millets and this joint venture will benefit the farmers of this hill State for promotion of millets cultivation. Dr. Rathnavati Director, IIMR said that IIMR will also provide financial assistance to the University for Awareness Campaigns for cultivation of millets in Himachal Pradesh.

The MoU was signed by Prof. H K Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor on behalf of his University and by Dr. (Mrs.) C V Rathnavati, Director on behalf of ICAR IIMR.

Dr. S P Dixit, Director of Research, Dr. Vinod Sharma, Associate Director, HAREC, Bajaura and Dr. Pankaj Sood Programme Coordinator, KVK Mandi and Scientists of ICAR IIMR, were present during this ceremony.

Palampur 29 September. Ms. Payal, Ms. Shristi and Ms. Alisha Thakur, Ph.D research scholars from CSK H.P. Agriculture University will get one month training at Taiwan.

Disclosing this here today, Prof. H. K. Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor told the National Agricultural Higher Education Project in the University has sponsored these research scholars to undergo training at World Vegetable Centre, Taiwan. These scholars from the Department of Vegetable Science and Floriculture will get acquainted with new areas of research topics pertaining to molecular vegetable breeding and will also get familiar with world's largest public gene bank. The Vice-Chancellor told that they will work under the guidance of Dr. Roland Schafleitner, Head, Molecular Genetics- cum- Flagship Program Leader, Vegetable Diversity and Improvement from 1 October to 31 October 2022.

On the eve of their departure, Prof Chaudhary interacted with these Ph.D. scholars and advised them to experience the state of art facilities to augment their Ph.D. Research work.

Dr.D.R. Chaudhary, Head, Dr. Ranbir Singh Rana, Principal Investigator of National Agricultural Higher Education Project in the University and Dr. Parveen Sharma, students' advisor told that the research scholars have been selected based on their research problems on molecular genetics.

Involve rural masses in eco-agro tourism: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 27 September. World Tourism Day was celebrated at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, advised integrating agro tourism and eco tourism to revive the tourism industry in Himachal Pradesh, which suffered setback during the pandemic. He said that the state is known for its scenic beauty like snow clad mountains, rivers, sprawling gardens, meadows, national parks, flora and fauna and theses must be promoted for additional tourist attractions like paragliding, skiing, etc. This will generate income for the people from rural areas.

While appreciating the Department of Resources Management and Consumer Science for the initiative to celebrate this day, he advised the scientists and students to create awareness about eco-agro tourism among the people for their livelihood.

Dr.Y.S.Dhaliwal, Dean, College of Community Science also highlighted the importance of tourism industry. Dr.Neena Vyas, Prof. & Head, Deptt. of Resource Management and Consumer Science, informed that several cultural activities and several competitions were organized in the last one week to commemorate the World Tourism Week.

The following students were selected for the best performance is the each respective activity. The 1 st ,2 nd , 3 rd and Consolation prizes were bagged by Ms. Mehak and Ms. Tamana from College of Community Science, Ms. Priya Dhiman from College of Agriculture, Ms. Divanshu Dogra from College of Basic Science. Aksay kapoor and team from College of Community Science were selected as the winner in the Quiz competition. Sanskriti and team from College of Community Science were adjudged best in 'Vrat' Recipe competition.

Retired professors from the college Dr.Shubhangna Sharma, Chief Guest and Dr Avinash Sharma, Guest of Honour distributed prizes to the winners. Some tourism industry experts also expressed their views. Scientists and students were present on the occasion.

Palampur 23 September. CSK H.P. Agriculture University has initiated an awareness campaign on Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD).

On the directions of Prof H.K.Chaudhary, a committee of veterinary scientists from Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences has been constituted to create awareness among livestock keepers and general masses on the various aspects of LSD. The Vice Chancellor said that there are many myths and misinformation about LSD among the livestock owners and the veterinary scientists of the University will help farmers in this difficult situation by providing expert opinion and guidance to deal with the situation.

He said that as per the experts, LSD is an infectious and highly contagious disease caused by Lumpy Skin Disease Virus (LSDV). LSD spreads though direct contact with infected animals or indirectly by fomite. Blood sucking and biting insects like flies, ticks, fleas and mosquitoes spread this disease to different locations. The disease in animals starts with fever for 2-3 days followed by development of stiff, round cutaneous nodules (2-5 cm in diameters) on skin all over the body. Animals usually recover after 2-3 weeks but there is reduction in milk production for several weeks. Only 1-5 % infected animals die from LSD. This disease mainly infects cows of both indigenous and exotic breeds (Jersey, HF) but disease also rarely infect buffaloes. He said that according to the Public Health experts, the LSD is not communicable to the in contact humans but proper protective gloves, mask, etc. should be used while handling the infected animals. Milk from the infected animals is safe for human consumption after proper boiling. It is also recommended that the infected animals should be given green, soft and nutritious feed and fodders for uncomplicated recovery.

Dr Ravindra Kumar, Coordinator of the expert committee, has advised farmers to get their healthy animals vaccinated against LSD by contacting the local veterinary officer. All the cattle and buffaloes should be vaccinated with available Goat pox vaccine (cattle and buffalo at the age of 4 months and above). Affected animals should not be vaccinated. For preventing this disease to spread to new areas or to unaffected animals, farmers should immediately isolate the infected animals from the health ones and should never take them to common grazing fields and water sources. Movement of infected animals or animals with signs of fever should be completely restricted. Animals should not be taken to animal fairs or animal markets, etc. Insect population in and around the animal houses should be reduced using sprays or repellents. Thorough cleaning and disinfection of the affected animal sheds and contaminated materials including vehicles should be done using 1% formalin or 2% phenol for 15 minutess or 2-3% Sodium hypochlorite. Disinfection of premises should be done at regular intervals.

Sick animals should be handled carefully and new cases should be reported immediately to nearby veterinary hospital or other veterinary institutes. Dressing of the skin wounds should be done regularly with antiseptic ointments and care should be taken to prevent maggot infestation of open wounds. If the animal dies then the carcass should be disposed of by deep burial method observing all hygienic measures.

The Vice-Chancellor has directed the committee to work actively and keep in touch with livestock keepers of the state through telephonic consultancy, radio and TV talks and publishing articles in newspapers and prepare pamphlets on diverse aspects of lumpy skin disease. The committee shall be working in close liaison with the State Department of Animal Husbandry.

Govt. of India authorizes CSKHPAU to test Lumpy Skin Disease samples in H.P.

Palampur 23 September. CSK H.P. Agriculture University has been authorised to conduct testing of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) samples from all over the State. While giving this information, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor told that as per the recent notification from the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India, the Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Dr.G.C. Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences in the University has been granted the status of authorized laboratory to conduct testing of LSD samples from the livestock of Himachal Pradesh for rapid screening.

The Vice Chancellor said that the Department of Veterinary Microbiology is fully equipped to carry out screening of the samples in collaboration with Department of Animal Husbandry, H.P. This designated LSD laboratory will help in quick management of the disease in the State as now samples need not be sent to the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases, Bhopal for testing. He asked the scientists to help the livestock keepers of the State in all aspects to tide over the situation created by the LSD.

Dr. Mandeep Sharma, Dean, Dr.G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences and Dr. Rajesh Chahota, Professor and Head, Department of Veterinary Microbiology informed that for screening of samples, sensitive molecular techniques like conventional PCR and Real-Time PCR will be used for providing test results quickly to the field veterinarians for better disease control and prevention. This will enable field veterinarians to timely intervene to control and prevent LSD so that there are minimum financial losses to the livestock owners.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor inaugurates workshop on veterinary emergency response operations at CSKHPAU

Palampur 19 September. A four days workshop on veterinary emergency response operations was inaugurated at Dr.G.C.Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Science at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today. Chief Guest Prof H.K.Chaudhary Vice Chancellor, in his inaugural address, asked the trainees to effectively respond in emergency like situations so that there is no panic in the public. He asked the veterinary emergency response unit (VERU) to conduct trainings for the veterinarians to equip them with necessary tools and skills so that they could be a core player in responding to emergencies and disasters and preventing losses of lives and animals and saving livelihoods. He discussed the situations like Lumpy Skin Disease and need to issue quick advisory to the livestock keepers and others. Prof Chaudhary also discussed abandoned cattle issue that may take up a form of a disaster in near future if not tackled effectively. The Vice-Chancellor expressed his satisfaction that topics like principles of disaster management, management of animals during disasters, etc will be discussed in detail and activities like rescue and search mission, fire drill, live animal rescue simulation exercises, earthquake games and team building exercises have been planned during the training. Dr Mandeep Sharma, Dean, underlined the need to extend working of VERU to the field. Dr R Kumar, Founder Coordinator, VERU, told that Palampur Centre is one of six centres in the country and only the one in the North Zone. Dr Subhash Verma, Organizing Secretary & Coordinator, told that 50 trainees and 20 resource personnel are taking part in the workshop. Dr Ankur Sharma, Joint Organizing Secretary also expressed his views. All the statutory officers, Heads of Department and faculty attend the function.

MoU between CSKHPAU and SKUAST-Kashmir, Srinagar to promote and enhance scientific and academic interaction

Palampur 16 September. CSK H.P. Agriculture University and Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology,Kashmir, Srinagar have signed an MoU to foster academic and research co-operation. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor told that MoU will facilitate exchange of students under sandwich and twinning post graduate degree programme where candidates shall complete part of their degree programmes in one university and part in another. He said that the students under this programme can pursue their course work or research work or both at the partner university during their residency period. Prof Chaudhary told that there will be collaboration in research programmes of postgraduate students in different disciplines of agriculture and allied fields with the inclusion of advisory committee members from the partner university. SKUAST and CSKHPAU will also undertake joint research work and the concerned faculty of CSKHPKV and corresponding faculty members of SKUAST-K will formulate research projects and HRD plans for joint work with due approval of authorities of both the participating universities. Apart from this, joint sponsored and consultancy projects could be undertaken with long term and short term goals keeping in view the interest and areas of the respective varsities. The Vice-Chancellor said that this joint venture between both universities has opened up the door for undertaking such initiative with all research institutes situated in the western Himalayan states. It will be a milestone in furtherance of research and academics activities in the field of agricultural and allied sciences. He said that the collaboration will benefit exchange of research technologies, students and faculty. This joint venture will go in a long way in the interest of farmers of both the states. Dr. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-K expressed happiness at the new initiative. He said that there will be an ample scope of joint research programmes, conferences, seminars and workshops in the areas of common interests. A provision has been made for faculty exchange between both farm varsities.

The MoU was signed by Prof. H K Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU and Dr. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-Kashmir, Srinagar.Senior officers of both universities were present during the MoU signing ceremony.

Palampur 31 August. CSK H.P. Agriculture University and Agricare Organic Farms Ludhiana signed Memorandum of Understanding, here today.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary Vice Chancellor told that under the agreement, there will be academic, research and training cooperation between both institutes. The University and Agricare will promote education, training, research, and exchange of information and technology in the areas of mutual concern related to plant protection under protected agriculture and natural farming. Both institutions will also collaborate in providing training to post graduate scholars in plant protection in organic and natural farming and protected agriculture. They will also

cooperation in the exchange of scientists and research staff to encourage sharing of experience, scientific knowledge, and technology advances. Collaboration in holding industrial attachments of rural agriculture work experience students, trainings workshops, conferences, and symposiums, etc. is also envisaged. Smt Reema Arora, MD, from Organic Farms and Dr.V.K.Sharma, Director Research signed the MoU document on behalf the University. Smt Uma Saini, Sh Vipin Saini and University scientist from the Departments of Entomology and Plant Pathology were present during the MoU signing ceremony.

Palampur 30 August. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor inaugurated the Milk and Milk Products Sale Outlet at Dr G.C Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Science at CSK H.P.Agriculture University here today.

While congratulating the scientists for the new venture, he said that it was important to create sales outlets in all such departments which produce agricultural and animal products like seeds, vegetables, mushrooms, flowers, etc. He asked the scientists to create and maintain a distinct identity of their products so that the name and fame of the University reach the nook and corner of India and beyond. It will also develop entrepreneurship among students and young farmers. He also advised improving the milk products after getting feedback from the consumers. He also appreciated local farmers for supplying quality milk to the Unit. He said that the Unit will economically empower farmers as they will learn entrepreneurial skills and create FPOs in future. He was happy to learn that high-quality pasteurised milk, paneer, curd, burfi, gulab jamun, flavoured milk, ghee, khoya etc will be available under the Him Palam brand. Dean Dr Mandeep Sharma and Dr R.K.Asrani, Head, Deptt of Livestock Products Technology detailed the importance of this new unit. The university scientists and students were present on the occasion.

Palampur 28 August. Six days Induction Training for newly recruited scientists concluded at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today. During the training, the University Registrar, Comptroller, Deans, Directors and other officers interacted with the scientists and made them aware thoroughly on the mandate, objectives and functioning of the University. The participants were provided complete knowledge about their duties and responsibilities, conduct and leave rules, office procedures and records, University Act and Statutes, financial management system, guidelines for better auditing services, etc. For making their service better, they were made aware about the facilities, role of Indian Council of Agricultural Research, UGC and Veterinary Council of India in regulating higher education, accreditation and ranking criteria, etc. The experts detailed about course curriculum designing and academic regulations for teaching, library services, Students' welfare activities, thrust areas of research and formulation of research project proposals, extension strategies and Krishi Vigyan Kendra functioning, RTI Act, e-office and academic management system, etc. Special lectures on Public relations and media protocol and health services in the University were also arranged.

At the end, a session was held on feedback and evaluation of participants. The training was inaugurated by Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor with his detailed lecture on National Education Policy. Dr.Pawan Kumar Sharma, Coordinator told that 77 teachers, in offline and online mode, participated and expressed gratitude to the University for this much needed and useful training

CSKHPAU and PAU sign MoU to promote and enhance scientific and academic interaction: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 27 August. CSK H.P. Agriculture University and Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana signed MoU today at Ludhiana to promote and enhance scientific and academic interaction between both farm varsities in mutually beneficial areas. Prof. H K Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor and Dr. S.S.Gosal, Vice-Chancellor, PAU were present during the MoU signing ceremony. Prof Chaudhary told that both universities will undertake

joint evaluation of crop varieties and other technologies of mutual interest at different locations in both states with objectives of cross-state recommendations and popularization.

Screening of germplasm under epiphytotic conditions at the unique hot spots available in two states for the development of resistant material of field and horticultural crops e.g. wheat rust, rice blast, sheath blight, bacterial wilt in brinjal, cold tolerance in pea etc. will be done. It has been agreed to conduct joint experimentation to address common agricultural issues of the border districts of both states sharing similar crop profile as well as biotic and abiotic stresses. There will be focus on crops of mutual interest and with complementary research strengths of CSKHPKV (e.g. desi maize, red rice, ginger, herbs, medicinal plants, organic farming, their processing and marketing etc.) and PAU (e.g. wheat, rice, canola sarson, sugarcane, vegetables etc.). He told that there will be

collaboration in research programmes of postgraduate students in different disciplines of agriculture and allied fields with the inclusion of advisory committee members from the partner university. Formulation of collaborative projects for funding by national and international agencies. Cooperation for sharing of scientific knowledge, library, laboratories and field facilities, etc are also part of MoU.

Earlier, Prof H.K Chaudhary congratulated Dr. S. S. Gosal for assuming the office of new Vice-Chancellor of prestigious PAU, Ludhiana. The Vice-Chancellor said that it is a great pride for the CSKHPKV to join hands with the PAU, our parent institution. He also said that it is a great strength to Himachal Pradesh as well to tie our joint efforts in academics and research commencing today by signing this MoU. He said that it will be a milestone in furtherence of our research and academics activities in the field of agricultural sciences. He said besides the area of Himachal Pradesh bordering Punjab, the collaboration will benefit exchange of our research technologies, students and faculty. This joint venture will go in a big way in the interest of farmers of both the states. Dr. S S Gosal Vice-Chancellor, PAU extended warm welcome to Prof.Chaudhary and expressed happiness at the new initiative to sign the MoU with PAU. He said the PAU and CSKHPKV will work together in all areas of mutual interests.

The MoU was signed on behalf of the CSKHPKV by Director of Research Dr S.P. Dixit and Dr. Shammi Kapoor, Registrar on behalf of PAU, Ludhiana.

Induction Training to new faculty: "Think out of the box for high-quality work", exhorts Prof H. K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK HPAU: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, inaugurated Induction Training Programme for newly recruited scientists at CSK H.P.Agriculture University, here today. The Vice-Chancellor, while exhorting the young teachers to work selflessly for the welfare of students and farmers, said that the suggestions and enthusiasm of young staff will be utilized fully to take forward the University in fulfilling its given mandate and make it truly International in its stature. He said that the University was getting full support from the Governments of India and Himachal Pradesh. Fifty-five teachers have been recruited and 26 more teachers will be recruited soon. New challenges were emerging and these are to be faced with new innovations collectively. He asked the scientists to rise above difficulties and think out of the box to excel in academics, research and extension education activities. Prof Chaudhary said that young faculty may seek inspiration from the world-class standards and work of top Indian scientists like Prof Hargobind Khurana, Dr.M.S.Swaminathan, Dr Khem Singh Gill etc. He also detailed his successful professional journey beginning at the remote tribal area Kukumseri and then establishing world-class research facilities at Palampur where scientists from Japan, Australia and other countries seek permission to conduct research in chromosome engineering, tissue culture, and molecular biology, etc. Prof H.K.Chaudhary suggested scientists to become their own managers and be ever ready to perform under all situations and conditions. He also asked them to write their future with success and concentrate on fundamental and practical research. He said that they need to ignore minor issues and proceed ahead working extra hours. He told that he himself has been sleeping in his lab while working on double haploidy technology.

"You think and work differently to give something extraordinary and new to the world", suggested Prof Chaudhary. The Vice-Chancellor said one should keep one's aim high and then start working for it with complete dedication and commitment. He said that University scientists must become restless to realize their dreams and become his competitors and break his records in innovations and publishing their research work in high-impact journals. He also provided information to them on the needs of the nation and state. "Nobody will come to honour when you keep sitting in cosy cocoons. Move and take strong strides to conquer the world", exhorted Vice-Chancellor. Prof Chaudhary also detailed National Education Policy. He promised to provide them with all facilities and wished them success in their duties.

Dr S.P.Dixit, Director of Research and Dr Pawan Kumar Sharma, Programme Director, HRD and Placement Centre also expressed their views. All statutory officers, including around 80 scientists were present during the ceremony.

Patriotic fervour dominates Independence Day celebrations at CSK H.P.Agriculture University

The University ready to face new challenges with renewed enthusiasm and zest: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor,CSKHPAU

Palampur 15 August Patriotic fervour was dominant during 76th Independence Day celebrations at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

After unfurling National Flag, Vice Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhary greeted and addressed the University Community. He paid his glowing tributes to the freedom fighters and expressed his gratitude to all those who took initiatives for the spectacular growth of nation after independence. He said the country has become food surplus nation with the farsighted decisions of planners, research by farm scientists and hard working farming community. He also enumerated achievements in agriculture, animal husbandry, horticulture, health, education and other sectors in Himachal Pradesh turning it as a model state. He said the University has earned name and fame by various achievements in education, research and extension education. The University has contributed tremendously in making the state self sufficient in food front. He recalled the growth of University and told that in the recent past progressive farmers have been involved in spreading the new technology among other farmers by designating and honouring them as University Krishi Doots. Their photographs have been displayed in Krishak Deergha so that other farmers may draw inspiration from their success. He said that the University will popularize 'one valley two products' and local landraces will be registered so that farmers may get remunerative price of their farm produce. The Geographic Indicators task force was already working on it.

The Vice-Chancellor elaborated about the reforms in admission process. The University has signed MoUs with leading institutions for the collaboration in research and soon there will be bilateral collaborations with international institutes for students and faculty exchange. He also elaborated about new facilities at the campus and the recent initiatives in the areas of drone technology, Artificial Intelligence, etc to accelerate research. He appreciated the farm scientists for their contributions enabling the farmers to receive national awards. He also discussed efforts in formation of FPOs, UniShop, clean and green campus, increase in students scholarships, etc. Prof Chaudhary also drew attention of staff towards challenges like climate change, water scarcity and rainfed farming, conservation of rich Himalayan resources, etc and told that germplasm conservation network will be established soon. He expressed gratitude to the State Government and other funding agencies for their constant support. The Vice Chancellor also praised NCC cadets for their impressive parade despite rain. He also distributed prizes to the winners of literary, sports and cultural competitions organized during Har Ghar Tiranga campaign during Azadi Ka Amritmahotsav and some NCC cadets. He appreciated the Students' Welfare Organization for the programme.

Besides first lady of the University Dr(Mrs.) Parveen Lata Chaudhary, all officers, scientists, students and residents enthusiastically took part in the celebrations.

Kisan Goshthi and Parbhat Pheri to celebrate Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav at CSKHPAU

Grateful to farming community for the food security of country: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 12 August. A Kisan Goshthi under Har Ghar Tiranga campaign to commemorate Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav was organised at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

In his message, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor said that the country was indebted to the farming community for food security in the country. "Their sheer hard work has enabled the country to traverse a glorious path of self sufficiency on food front. From 'ship to mouth' economy, we are now food surplus nation and the farming community has played very crucial role in it." He told that the University has designated and honoured 51 progressive farmers as 'University Krishi Doots' and they are taking part in all major university extension activities. Their photographs has been displayed in 'Krishak Deergha' so that other farmers may imbibe their hard work. The University has helped some farmers of Chamba, Kangra, Mandi and Shimla to receive national level awards. Efforts are being made to register landraces of different traditional crops so that the farmers may get national level recognition and remunerative prices of their traditional crops and products. He assured farmers that the University will continue to serve them with full dedication.

Shri Sandeep Sood, HAS, Registrar, while presiding over the function, played his glowing tributes to the freedom fighters and remembered second Prime Minister Shri Lal Bahdur Shastri for his slogan, 'Jai Jawan Jai Kisan' He asked farmers to make the country self sufficient in pulses and oilseeds.

Dr.V.K.Sharma, Director of Extension Education, thanked farmers for participating in the University programmes and adopting the technology recommended by scientists. He told that all eight Krishi Vigyan Kendras also celebrated 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign today.

Drs Vishal Dogra and Hirday Paul Singh also elaborated about various academic, research and extension education activities and asked farmers to educate their near and dear ones in the University. Some farmers also narrated their success stories.They were provided National Flags also.

The University Library also celebrated Librararian Day under Azadi Ka Amritmahotsav where as Dr.Mandeep Sharma, Dean, College of Veterinary & Animal Science presided over the function and Dr Pawan Kumar, Librarian underlined the importance of day. Earlier, a 'Parbhat Pheri' was taken out under 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign of 'Azadi Ka Amritmahotsav.' NCC cadets, NSS volunteers, University staff and campus residents took part enthusiastically and raised patriotic slogans in the 'Parbhat Pheri' today morning

Palampur 11 August. To celebrate Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav to mark 75 years of Independence of the country and the glorious history of its people, culture and achievements, CSK H.P. Agriculture University organized a series of literary, cultural and sports activities under Har Ghar Tiranga campaign.The Students Welfare Organization organised inter college literary and sports competitions and cultural activities beginning 6 August. A 'Prabhat Pheri'will be organised in the campus on 12 August. A Kisan Goshti will also be organized to mark the historic occasion.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor appreciated the participants for their enthusiasm and participating in a large number in Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav programme.

Palampur 6 August. CSK H.P. Agriculture University and National Fertilizers Ltd has signed a Memorandum of Understanding for research and extension collaboration, here today.

Prof H K Chaudhary,Vice-Chancellor told that his University has agreed to establish NFL professor chair in the department of soil science to give impetus to research on fertilizers, bio fertilizers, customised and fortified fertilizers of NFL. There will be joint extension programmes like field demonstrations, soil testing campaigns, field days etc at regular intervals. Prof Chaudhary said that this agreement will go a long way benefitting the scientists, students and farmers of the State. He recalled contributions of high yielding crop varieties highly responsive to fertilizers which were able to bring green revolution to feed the nation. He declared that a special lecture to commemorate the MoU signing ceremony will be held on 6 August every year. Mr.Nirlep Singh Rai, Chairman and Managing Director, NFL while appreciating the new development, said that NFL will allow the University students for industrial training at its plants. Specialised crops like red rice, blueberry etc will be grown, use of Artificial Intelligence, soil and plant analysis, etc were other contours of MoU. He told that ammonia based fertilizers contribute around fifty percent in grains production. There is need of second green revolution and NFL is silently contributing for it with its fertilizers and other products. He underlined the need of balanced use of fertilizers. He said more areas of collaboration will be explored for the welfare of farming community. Mr.Atul B Patil, Director Marketing and Mr.Anil Motsara, Executive Director Marketing told that some of the products yet to be launched by NFL will be provided to the University for testing. Messers Yoginder Singh, Rajbir Taya and Dilbagh Singh, all senior officers of NFL, were present on the occasion.

Dr N.K.Sankhyan, Head of Soil Science department and Dr Pardeep Kumar, Professor NFL Chair detailed activities to be undertaken like precision agriculture, field testing and demonstrations of NFL products, etc The Vice-Chancellor and CMD exchanged MoU documents.

The University statutory officers and scientists also were present during the ceremony.

CSK HPAU to get GI tag for Himachali Rajmash: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 4 August. The CSK H.P. Agriculture University has decided to get GI tag for Himachali Rajmash in the near future. This was disclosed by Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor.

Prof Chaudhary, a well known chromosome engineer and molecular breeder, has contributed for developing 20 important crop varieties, including rajmash variety 'Triloki Rajmash'. The Vice-Chancellor said that he has collected and identified 368 rajmash landraces from tribal belt and other areas of the state including Kukumseri (Lahaul & Spiti),Kinnaur, Kullu,Mandi and Chamba districts. These are called main hot spot regions for the landraces of rajmash cultivation in the state. He told that after collection, he evaluated, purified, characterized and developed a very popular rajmash variety 'Triloki Rajmash' following pure line selection method of breeding. The University has initiated process to get Geographic Indicators for rajmash landraces in collaboration with Himachal Pradesh Council for Science Technology and Environment (HIMCOSTE) Shimla. This will get national and international recognition benefitting local farmers by value addition and fixing the price of this unique food. "Utilization of this novel Himalayan gene pool for the development of bio-fortified and climate resilient varieties using innovative approaches is another initiative taken by this University", disclosed Prof Chaudhary.

The Vice-Chancellor said that Himachal Pradesh has diverse agroclimatic zones ranging from sub tropical to dry temperate desert and possesses a distinct position among other states with regard to rajmash . Abundant landraces of these regions have their own historical origin, distinct identity, genetically diverse and locally adapted, and associated with a set of farmers� practices and knowledge base. He said that rajmash variety "Triloki" has been released for cultivation in dry temperate zone hilly region of the state. It has bold and creamish yellow seeds with good cooking quality and excellent organo-leptic taste, resistant to diseases like bacterial blight, angular leaf spot and anthracnose and provides 20-22 q/ha average seed yield. It is ready for harvesting 10-20 days earlier than other varieties of rajmash. The creamish yellow rajmash, grown by the farming community in the hilly regions of Himachal Pradesh possesses many health-related nutrients. Such light coloured rajmash contains a good amount of carbohydrates, fibers and anti-oxidants which has the ability to fight against diseases. Apart from this, vitamins such as vitamin B6 and vitamin C, mineral elements viz., potassium, zinc, magnesium, calcium and iron, etc. are also found to increase the immune system and control blood pressure. Phytohaemoglutin, a harmful toxic element, is found in lesser amounts in creamish yellow rajmash than in red rajmash which prevents many stomach related problems like diarrhea, colic, indigestion etc. The creamish yellow colour seeded rajmash has thin seed coat and takes less time for cooking. The Vice-Chancellor said that this variety has become very popular among the farming community and efforts are underway to promote it further by way of branding and attractive packaging is the major goal of the University.

Joint research projects and faculty exchange programmes will be initiated with top foreign Universities: Prof H.K.Chaudhary,VC, CSKHPAU

Palampur 26 July. "CSK H.P. Agriculture University is planning to start dual degree programmes and initiate training courses in cutting edge technologies with the University of Leicester, England", this was informed by Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, during a press conference, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor who has recently returned from his official visit to United Kingdom under National Agriculture Higher Education Programme of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, told that under Indo-UK collaboration, joint research projects and faculty exchange programmes will be initiated. He disclosed that during his meeting with Dr.Nishan Canagarajah, Vice-Chancellor, University of Leicester, it was agreed to work collectively on artificial intelligence, drone technologies and advanced earth observation technologies to face the emerging challenges due to climate change and develop climate resilient crop varieties and effectively control emerging insect-pests, etc. He underlined the need for fine mapping of nook and corned of H.P. with ultra modern tools to identity exact rainfed and irrigated areas, alpines, meadows, pasture lands including routes of nomadic farmers ( Gaddis) for proper planning.

Prof Chaudhary said that he also visited the University of Edinburgh, Scotland to explore the possibility of collaboration in the areas of veterinary and animal sciences. He told that Centre of Excellence on Chromosome Engineering and Haploid Engineering will be established in the near future and the University will also seek collaboration with other foreign universities like Michigan State University, USA; University of Melbourne, Australia, etc. The University was also establishing germplasm resource network to conserve Himalayan landraces. �For crop improvement, speed and precision breeding with ultra modern technologies, collaboration with top world universities will be sought�, told Prof H.K.Chaudhary.

Shri Sandeep Sood, HAS, Registrar and Dr.Hirday Paul Singh, Jt. Director (Information & Public Relations) were preset in the press conference attended by fifteen media persons representing various print and electronic media channels.

Group Meet on Soil Arthropod Pests begins at CSK H.P. Agriculture University

Also use AI to study and control harmful inspect-pests: Dr.T.R.Sharma, DDG, ICAR

Palampur 20 July. A two days group meeting of 'All India Network Project on Soil Arthropod Pests' was inaugurated at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

Chief Guest Dr.T.R. Sharma, Deputy Director General (Crop Science), Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) asked the scientists to extensively review the research work done in various centres and formulate strategies to develop economical, safe and practical integrated technology for management of key white grub and other soil arthropod pest species under different agro-climatic conditions and cropping systems of the country. He told that monitoring and advisory committees for all 80 All India Coordinated Research Projects have been constituted to achieve excellence by fixing goals and working in cohesion.

The DDG said that despite self sufficiency of the nation in food grains, it was a major cause of concern that up to 30 percent crop losses are caused by insect pests and diseases. White grub is a big menace but the Palampur farm varsity has done commendable work on it. Since the insects are causing extensive losses and attacking all plants so scientists need to work on assessment of exact economic yield losses, population structure of these pests and their genetic variability, host studies and studies on pheromones, bio control etc and also use of artificial intelligence and deep learning techniques on white grub and termites. He suggested studying gut microbes of these insects to learn that how they eat and digest everything. He also suggested involving research students in these studies.

In his message, Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, currently on official visit to UK, exhorted the participants to mull over and suggest effective and farmer friendly control measures for the soil arthropod pests like white grubs, cutworms, termites, wireworms, etc. He said that noxious soil pests cause severe damage to a number of crops like potato, rajmash, groundnut, sugarcane, maize, apple, pear, vegetable crops, etc. so research for the management of soil arthropod pests should be accelerated. He said that white grubs, termites, cut worms, etc. required to be tackled on priority to reduce annual losses in several crops. The Vice-Chancellor informed that 80 percent infestation has been reported in higher hills which signifies the importance of white grub in H.P. He told that the University has initiated good work on termites in the last two years. The University will seek collaboration with well known experts from Czech Republic to accelerate work on termites.

Guest of honour Dr.Mandeep Sharma, Dean, Dr.G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences and officiating Vice-Chancellor also spoke on the need to control white grubs and suggested adopting participatory approach to control harmful insects. Another Guest of honour Dr S.C. Dubey, Assistant Director General, ICAR, suggested that methodology of observation should be meticulous and management should be uniform and eco friendly. Dr.A.S.Baloda, Network Coordinator detailed importance and achievements of the research project and detailed good research work at Durgapura, Ranichauri, Palampur, Bangalore and Jorhat centres

Dr.S.P.Dixit, Director of Research, welcomed all. Dr R.S.Chandel, Organising Secretary told that around 70 participants from all over the country, including experts Drs P.K.Mehta, R.D.Gautam, V.V.Ramamurthy and G.K.Mohapatra are taking part in the meeting jointly organised by the University and Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute.The Chief Guest also released some technical publications.

All Statutory Officers, Heads, scientists and students were present in the inaugural ceremony.

Palampur 01 June. Under its campus placement process, Mother Dairy has selected five M.Sc. final year students of CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University as Executive Trainees. The students include Vaishali Rana, Shaifali Rana, Sachin Sharma, Rohan Kashyap and Pankaj Sankhyan. They will be placed in the Safal Business unit of Mother Dairy Fruit and Vegetable Ltd. Three more University students have been kept in the waiting list. All the selected students are from the College of Agriculture will be getting a package of Rs. Five lakh per annum and other allowances.

Prof H.K. Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor has congratulated the students for starting their career with a known company.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary congratulates B.Jabez Raju for getting Doctoral Fellowship in USA

Palampur 29 May. Prof. HK Chaudhary,Vice-Chancellor has congratulated Mr. B.J. Raju, M.Sc. student of the University who has been selected with full scholarship for doctoral studies at well known Clemson University, USA. The Vice-Chancellor expressed happiness that Mr Raju will be provided a scholarship of Rs. 20 lakh per annum by the USA Govt for the next six years. He asked other students to emulate this brilliant student who has brought laurels to the University, his teachers and parents.

Mr.B Jabez Raju, a M.Sc. student of the Department of Entomology in College of Agriculture told that his research work will be based on insects and cancer, which will also be helpful in treating the problem of cancer in human beings. He said that he is greatly inspired by Prof H.K.Chaudhary and expressed the hope that he will endeavour to fulfill his dream to bring Nobel Prize for the country.He has done his graduation from Agriculture University, Guntur (AP) and thereafter he passed the national examination of ICAR and got admission at CSK H.P.Agriculture University,Palampur.Recently, Mr.Raju also cleared the UGC National Eligibility Test.He has expressed gratitude to his parents, his research guide Dr Prem Chand Sharma,Head Dr R.S.Chandel and other teachers also.He said that he was motivated by the Vice Chancellor Prof. H.K.Chaudhary.

CSK HPAU to award Gold, Silver & Bronze medals to research scholars for publishing quality research: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, VC

Palampur 28 May. "CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University has decided to award Gold, Silver and Bronze medals to Ph.D scholars for publishing quality research papers in high impact journals", this was announced by Prof.H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, here today.

In a very first and unique goodwill gesture, the Vice-Chancellor invited all Ph.D. students for breakfast and held a marathon interaction meeting with them. He motivated them to move forward with high spirits and enthusiasm to enhance their incredible learning experience in this premier farm University. He sought their innovative ideas so that the University may help them to pursue ahead of the times research in their respective departments.

The Vice- Chancellor said that the young scholars have enormous potential and energy for innovative ideas and research for the welfare of country and humanity. "You need to walk on un-trodden paths leading to all together new results", advised Prof Chaudhary. He said that we are fortunate to live in the lap of Himalayas which is our strength. We need to utilize this unique environment and come out with such results which benefit the entire humanity. Our enormous challenges provide great opportunities for unique and world class results from researching in this land of enormous diversity and huge bio-resources. The Vice-Chancellor asked scholars to utilize this prime time of their life for thinking out of box and do much more than approved research topic. He told that the university has provided high quality labs and infrastructure with very competent teachers and renowned scientists from across the world are invited to interact with staff and students to guide them for breakthrough research.

He re-assured them to provide all requisite facilities and support to Ph.D.scholars to pursue cutting-edge world class research and exhorted them to never ever lose sight of their goal and achieve it with complete dedication, hard work and sincerity. He promised all help and support from the university to bring out the very best from the scholars and chisel their raw ideas and skills so that they glimmer like a topaz or diamond. He advised them to share their new ideas with their advisors.

During their candid feedback, all 158 Ph.D scholars of the University enthusiastically took part in the interactive programme and expressed their views in detail. Most of the scholars thanked the Vice-Chancellor for adding new facilities in the recent past and suggested training on use of new software and solving labour problem during laying of research trials. They said that the research should not be focused on getting job, there should be student exchange programs with top research institutes and suggested organizing more conferences, etc.

Earlier, Dr.Suresh Kumar, Dean, Post Graduate Studies told that the event has held for the first time since inception of the University on 1978. Dr.S.P.Dixit, Director of Research and other deans, directors, concerned office staff and hostel wardens also attended the meeting.

Hydroponics is white color agriculture: Prof H.K.Chauhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU

Palampur 23 May. A media visit was conducted to Hydroponic Unit in the research farm of Department of Vegetable Science & Floriculture today. The media persons visited the hydroponic unit and hi-tech nursery raising unit and sought detailed information from the scientists.Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor also joined briefly and interacted with press. While appreciating Dr.Desh Raj Chaudhary, Head and Dr.Parveen Sharma, Scientist In charge protected cultivation for doing excellent work in the areas of hydroponics, he told that the cultivation of plants in nutrient enriched water popularly known as hydroponics is very useful in hill agriculture where land holdings are small and this technology fits well for landless farmers and where soils are poor in fertility. It is equally useful in rainfed areas. He said that this is white color agriculture and good for environment. He suggested that the department should come up with farmer friendly hydroponic technologies with the use of bamboo. He told that the University was organizing trainings to the farmers to popularize this technology. Dr Desh Raj Chaudhary informed that projects worth Rs. 20 crore were in operation in the department including National Agriculture Higher Education Project of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. The department has released 38 vegetable crops and 199 students have completed their PG studies. Dr Praveen Sharma told that hydroponic plants are less vulnerable to pest attacks and leafy greens like lettuce are the most profitable crops to grow in this system. Plants grown hydroponically grow significantly faster than soil grown plants hence farmers can take more number of crops in a year. He said that basil, coriander, lettuce, spinach, pepper, mint, cucumber etc were most profitable crops in this system. Dr.D.K.Vatsa, Dean, College of Agriculture; Dr. S.P.Dixit, Director of Research, Dr.Hirday Paul Singh, Joint Director Information & PR were present during the media visit.

Efforts initiated to upgrade the BRS to Bee Heritage Farm of India: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU
Palampur. 20 May. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University celebrated World Honey

Chief Guest Sh. Arun Mehra, MLA Nagrota Bagwan, while speaking to the bee keepers, asked them to seek guidance of scientists and others in promotion of hill bee products. He thanked the Vice-Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhary for making al out efforts to develop and improve the bee research station.

As Guest of honour Vice-Chancellor Prof H. K.Chaudhary informed that efforts have been initiated to upgrade the Bee Research Station to Bee Heritage Farm of India. He asked the bee keepers to take advantage of the expertise of scientists to enhance their honey production. The Vice-Chancellor advised students to take up bee keeping and other ventures under innovative agri-preneurship to become job providers. He alongwith Shri Aurn Mehra distributed 60 colonies of Apis mellifera with complete brood chamber and bee veils to 20 tribal farmers from Jia, Chahari, Kawari, Majhotli and Banuri Panchayats. He appreciated the station In charge Dr. Surender Kumar Sharma for selecting new farmers and encouraging them for entrepreneurship. A booklet in Hindi on basics of bee keeping was also released by the Chief Guest and the Vice-Chancellor.

Dr. R. S. Chandel, Head, Department of Entomology told that the e programme was held under Tribal Sub Plan of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research to create awareness among farmers about benefits of beekeeping and to provide them inputs. A discussion on bee keeping was held. Field and museum visit was also conducted for the participants. Dr.S. P. Dixit, Director of Research and Dr. V. K. Sharma, Director of Extension Education and other scientists and students were present in the programme.

MoU between CSKHPAU and IIPR, Kanpur for training and research for PG students

CSK H.P. Agriculture University and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research's Indian Institute of Pulses Research, Kanpur signed an MoU here today. According to Prof H.K.Chaudhary,Vice-Chancellor under the MoU, the University postgraduate students will be able to utilise the research and training facilities of IIPR. He said that the university is trying to provide state of the art cutting edge research facilities to its students enabling them to excel in research on pulse crops. There will be an exchange of students for academic, research and training purposes. The scientists of IIPR will also be guiding the students in their research work. He also informed about the rich diversity in H.P. and traditional pulses with rich agroleptic taste.

MoU was signed on behalf of the University by Post Graduate Dean Dr Suresh Kumar and Dr Bansa Singh, Director, IIPR, Kanpur. Dr Bansa Singh said that MoU will benefit his institute as scientists will get the opportunity to teach and train the students. Dr Sanjiv Gupta, Assistant Director-General, ICAR said that all ICAR institutes have world-class laboratories and collaboration will achieve remarkable results. Dr I.P.Singh, Project Coordinator, statutory officers of the university and scientists from IIPR were present on occasion.

Palampur 10 May. "The country is moving towards pulse revolution with record production", informed Dr. T.R.Sharma, Deputy Director General, Indian Council of Agricultural Research while inaugurating two days annual group meet on kharif pulses at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today. He said that work is in progress to develop short duration and climate resilient pulse varieties. He said that pulses have high protein content up to 24 percent but scientists need to further improve this content. He told that in the last eight years, with the policy support and proper marketing, pulse production has increased from 16 million ton to 27 million ton. He discussed development of insect pest resistant varieties, mechanical harvesting to reduce labour cost, twenty percent increase in area under pulses, reducing post harvest losses, resource conservation, efficient extension models, etc. He asked scientists to develop any variety as a complete product having all important traits.He also told about ICAR efforts to propel research on major crops in a dynamic mode. The country has been able to provide free food to 80 crore people during the pandemic due to high production. As Chief Guest Dr. H.K. Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor told that the State was home to many pulses and the university was working to get GI tags to some traditional pulses like rajmash, kulthi, urd, etc. He described variability and diversity of bio resources in mountains. He informed about the adequate number of pulse varieties in hills and suggested their popularization among the farming community through seed village concept. Besides fetching good price, pulses are important for the nutritional security of farm families. Prof Chaudhary advised multiplication of breeder seed production of pulses in less accessible areas, strengthening marketing network, etc. He said that the all India coordinated research project system has been extremely productive in several crops. Dr Sanjeev Gupta, Assistant Director General, ICAR detailed various programmes to enhance pulse production in the country. Dr Bansa Singh, Director, Indian institute of pulses research, Kanpur detailed research work on moongbean, urdbean, lentil, lathyrus, rajmash, field pea, pigeonpea and arid legumes. Dr I.P.Singh, project coordinator, all India coordinator research project on pigeopea, Dr Farindra Singh, project coordinator, arid legumes, Dr S.P.Dixit, Director of Research, Dr J.D.Sharma and Dr Suman Kumar, organising secretary also spoke on the research and development work on pulses. Progressive pulse growers Smt. Simro Devi, Ramesh Kumar and Munish Kumar were honoured by the the Deputy Director General. He also released some publications on the pulses. Besides around 150 delegates, university statutory officers, heads of various departments and some progressive pulse growers of the state also attended the inaugural ceremony.

Palampur 9 May. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University and State Bank of India have signed a Memorandum of Understanding ,here today.

According to Prof H.K.Chaudhary,Vice-Chancellor, under the MoU, the University will facilitate the bank for having a slot in the valediction program for guiding and explaining the various banking schemes for students to enable them to pursue their career in agriculture by starting cultivation, processing etc. in agriculture products like hydroponic, aquaponic, farm mechanization, protected farming, fishery, mushroom farming etc. He told that the bank has agreed to extend financial exposure on priority to eligible students who wish to start their own venture in agriculture and allied activities as per Bank�s extant instructions and terms and conditions. The Vice-Chancellor said the MoU will prove a milestone in the growth of agriculture in, especially in states of H.P., Haryana and Punjab from where major chunk of students study in this university.

Mr.Anukool Bhatnagar, Chief General Manager, SBI said that this initiative of CSKHPAU and SBI will provide an opportunity for the youth to start their own venture for livelihood immediately after completing their education. This will also give an opportunity to the neo farm graduate and post graduate to be a job provider instead of being a job seeker. HPAU shall help in furnishing the information, if available with it, as required by the Bank for preparing project viability reports.

The MoU was signed on behalf of the University by Dean Dr.D.K.Vatsa and Mr.Bipan Gupta, DGM signed on behalf of SBI. Besides the University statutory officers, senior bank officers Mr.Pawan Gupta, Mr. Satwinder Singh and Mr Anshuman Sharma were also present during the MoU signing ceremony.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, VC, CSKHPAU: Palampur 8 May. Three days National Conference on Pluralistic Approaches for Livestock Development concluded at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today. While addressing around 200 delegates from sixteen states of the country, Chief Guest Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor said that challenges in NW Himalayas offer unique opportunities for veterinary scientists and stakeholders.

He underlined the importance of Himalayas for incredible and diverse animal genetic resources and asked scientists to project these at national and international level. He suggested them to practice Farmer to Farmer Model of Extension of new technologies and involve progressive and innovative farmers as brand ambassadors to serve as community focal points to disseminate relevant knowledge. He said that small and marginal farmers must get equal focus. He asked farmers to be smart in marketing. He also discussed ways to harness Corporate Social Responsibility and establishing tight linkages with private sector. The Vice-Chancellor said that the extension specialists and workers must be well conversant in local language and dialects at their workplace. He also discussed issues like indigenous technical knowledge, conservation of local flora and fauna, etc. Some recommendations of the conference like promoting entrepreneurship, blend of new and traditional approach for extension education, importance of success stories, group approach, value chain, conservation of germplasm, etc were discussed. Dr. Mandeep Sharma ,Dean of Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Dr.H.K.Verma, President; Dr Devesh Thakur, Organising Secretary and Dr Manoj Sharma, joint organising Secretary, Society for veterinary and animal husbandry extension, spoke on the importance of simple and useful knowledge for farmers and need to remove prevalent misconceptions about livestock rearing. They emphasized maintaining high quality of animal produce for fetching good returns to farmers. The Chief Guest also presented awards to 20 scientists in ten different categories like poster presentation, oral presentation, etc. Two progressive farmers Smt. Veena Devi from Nagrota Bagwan and Sh. Anil Jamwal from Bindraban were also awarded. The Chief Guest also released a booklet, 'Pashupalan Shabdavali' authored by Drs Devesh, Manoj, Rakesh and Sanjay Khurana.

Technological & institutional innovations can help livestock farmers in production and marketing: Dr B. N. Tripathi, DDG, ICAR

Palampur 6 May. Three days National Conference on 'Pluralistic Approaches for Livestock Development-An Extension Call' began at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

Chief Guest Dr B. N. Tripathi, Deputy Director General (Animal Science), Indian Council of Agricultural Research, while inaugurating the conference, said that livestock farmers face various challenges of production and marketing that require technological and institutional innovations. These challenges in livestock-based rural development require different services and approaches. Pluralistic approach indicates that the livestock sector is characterized by the coexistence of multiple public, private, and mixed extension systems and approaches; multiple providers and types of services; diverse funding streams; and multiple sources of information which benefit the end users in most significant way.

He told that animal husbandry scenario was unique in this hill state and it has got a great future. The veterinarians need to make the system resilient for the holistic livestock development. They have diverse roles to play while serving the farmers dedicatedly. He said that animal genetic resources in the country should be conserved well under mission mode so that no animal remains non-descriptive. He discussed issues like climate change and production stress on animals and told that overall animal production is low and should be increased with various technologies and incentives. The Chief Guest also released some technical publications.

In his presidential remarks, Dr H K Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor, emphasized the role of livestock in the rural set up of Himachal Pradesh, where a sizeable population depends on livestock for their bread and butter. He exhorted various stakeholders and line departments for the overall development of the livestock sector including public, private and mixed extension systems and approaches, and effective coordination among them so that livestock sector gets benefitted in most efficient manner. He asked scientists to find out innovative methods to extend technologies at the farmers' door steps. The Vice-Chancellor said that the women play an active role in farming including livestock rearing. The state is rich in biodiversity and it's evident at every 10 Kms. It is a big challenge to cater to each valley and area. Anyone who is successful to solve the farm problems here will be successful anywhere in the country.He asked ICAR to give preference and priority to research projects of this region. Prof Chaudhary discussed diversity in H.P. like pashmina goat, cold water fish, snow trout, mountain cow, diversity in poultry etc. and said that traditional technology with farmers needs to be studies and patented. He also mentioned alpine grasses and fodders which need GI tagging and the University efforts to get 51 such commodities registered.

Guest of honour Dr. V. K. Saxena, Assistant Director General, ICAR, emphasized the need of multi-pronged approaches to solve the challenges of the livestock production, value addition and marketing. Dr Mandeep Sharma Dean Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences detailed extension outreach activities of the college. Dr H K Verma, President and Dr.Jaswinder Singh, Secretary, Society for Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Extension told that around 200 delegates from different states are attending this event. Dr Devesh Thakur, organising secretary told that the conference is being organised by the Department of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Extension Education in collaboration with Society for Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Extension. Some known retired scientists including Dr Madhumeet Singh, Dr.Hima Tripathi and Dr.S.C.Tripathi were honoured with life time achievement award.

Palampur 29 April. 'Producing food and taking care of the borders for the nation are twin arduous duties performed by the farmers settled in tribal areas of Himachal Pradesh", said Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor while addressing fifty farmers during the concluding ceremony of six days training programme at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor said that Kinnur district was known for the quality cumin seed ( Kala Zeera), Saffron (Kesar), Rajmash and traditional pseudo cereals like Ogla and Phapra. Such crops need GI tagging for their proper recognition for remunerative price to the farming community of these areas. He also appreciated the Horse gram( Kulthi) of Nirmand area of Kullu district. Prof Chaudhary said that his university was determined for conserving and propagating different crop varieties of the state. He said that the university was taking effective steps to provide training and technology in the less accessible and far flung areas in the tribal and border districts as the farmers of such areas face several hardships like extreme harsh climate, limited period for cultivation and less availability of transport, etc.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor said that such skill development programmes through trainings and demonstrations help the farmers, especially young and enterprising farmers in a variety of income generating professional activities. He asked farmers to get in touch with the university Krishi Vgyan Kendras and research stations wide spread in the state.

Dr.V.K.Sharma, Director of Extension Education told that the training was part of 40 trainings for 1000 farmers sponsored by Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Foundation under a Memorandum of Understanding with the University. He told that KVKs were also conducting such trainings on vegetable cultivation, mushroom production, bee-keeping, medicinal and aromatic plants, nursery production, dairy farming, etc. Drs.Pawan Pathania and Lav Bhushan told the fifty farmers from different villages of districts of Kinnaur and Kullu participated in the training. Some progressive farmers also expressed their views.

Dr Arun Sud and Hirday Paul Singh were also present during the concluding ceremony.

Efforts underway to give an international look to the University: Prof H.K.Chaudhary

Palampur 28 April. With the University logo embedded in different and unique products, a 'UniShop' was opened at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, after performing the opening ceremony and visiting the new venture, said that all dignitaries and visitors to the beautiful campus will be able to carry mementoes, neckties, key rings, t-shirts, mugs and many more items from the UniShop which will remind them their visit to this leading hill farm varsity, nestled in lower Himalayas. He said that such shops are existing in major foreign universities and it was his dream to open such shop for the students, staff and visitors. He also declared that the University will organize annual photography competitions to capture the natural beauty of Himachal Pradesh. Selected photographs will be used as souvenirs for this UniShop. He said that all out efforts were underway to give an international look to the University which was already among top ten farm varsities in the country. He asked scientists to visit top foreign universities for new knowledge and international collaborations.

The Vice-Chancellor said that addition of fountain, lighting arrangements for the buildings, etc were efforts to beautify the campus and soon work will be initiated for a new entrance gate to the University. Alongside this gate, shopping complex with all major amenities will be created so that the students and residents are able to purchase daily need items within campus.

Dr.D.K.Vatsa, Dean, College of Agriculture told that it was Vice-Chancellor's idea and dream for the 'UniShop' which has been realized. He told that shortly, a canteen will also start functioning for the staff and students.

All statutory officers, heads, scientists and students attended the inaugural ceremony.

Three days training on fishery concludes at CSK H.P.Agriculture University: Adopt fishery for additional income and nutritional security: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancelllor: Palampur 27 April. Three days skill development training on seed production and grow out culture of carp fish concluded at CSK H.P.Agriculture University here today. While distributing certificates to 50 trainees, Chief Guest Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor underlined the importance of local breeds of fish and advised farmers to adopt fisheries as a source of additional income and nutritional security of their families. He said that new technology and scientific rearing of fish can enable the farmers to get remunerative prices in the market. The Vice Chancellor informed that the state was blessed with plenty of fresh water resources which were most suitable for quality fish production. He expressed happiness that among trainees, 46 were women farmers. The Vice-Chancellor said he will visit progressive farmers. Prof. Chaudhary also released a training manual on fishery. Dr V.K.Sharma, Director of Extension Education told that there were six thousand fish farmers in the state. He said that farmers may get in touch with University Krishi Vigyan Kendras for latest updates on fisheries. Dr Mandeep Sharma, Dean, Dr G.C. Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences told that fish was an excellent food and farmers were welcome to get technical know how on fisheries and their farm animals. Dr Daisy Wadhwa, Head, Department of Fisheries, told that training was sponsored by National Fishery Development Board. Drs Madhu Sharma, Tarang Kumar Shah and Arun Sharma and some progressive farmers also expressed their views

CSK H.P. Agriculture University looking for international collaborations: Vice-Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhary

Palampur 27 April. An online interaction meeting between Prof. H.K. Chaudhary,Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University and Dr. Karim.M.Maredia, Director for International Collaborations and Professor, College of Agriculture, Michigan State University, USA was held today.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Chaudhary informed about the genesis, history, mandate and other major achievements of his University. He also mentioned rich diversity of this region and other strengths of the University and State of Himachal Pradesh. The Vice-Chancellor informed about the execution of world bank funded National Agricultural Higher Education Project and told that under the project, there is provision of faculty and students exchange programme. The Vice-Chancellor told that, already, the University has MoU with national and international institutions. He also invited the Director and other faculty members from Michigan State University to Palampur.

During this interaction meeting, Dr Maredia said that his University has 50 thousand students from around 100 countries. There are several international collaborations and his University looks forward to long term collaboration with prestigious CSK H.P. Agriculture University. He told that there are possibilities of collaboration between both universities in the areas of online courses, faculty and student exchange programmes and hybrid and other guest lectures. Dr.S.P.Dixit, Director of Research and Dr. Ranvir Singh Rana, Principal Investigator of Centre for Advanced Agricultural Science and Technology project were present during the online meeting.

Vast scope of collaboration for the benefit of mankind: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 6 April. To explore the possibility of collaboration between the University of Melbourne and CSK H.P. Agriculture University, a high-level delegation comprising Prof Frank R Dunshea and Dr S.S.Chauhan from the School of Agriculture arrived here today. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor of the host University, while welcoming the delegation, said that there are possibilities for broad programmes of collaboration between two prestigious institutions like collaborative research projects, faculty interchange programmes and student exchange and sandwich programmes. He said agricultural and veterinary research between both universities could include speed and precision breeding, genome assisted breeding for crop improvement, smart farming using drones, robotics, artificial intelligence, etc. It could also include agriculture and urban waste management, development of vaccines and diagnostics against veterinary pathogens, immunogenetic characterization of native breeds of animals, etc. Prof Chaudhary recalled his visit to the University of Melbourne in 2014 as a visiting fellow and asked the delegation to join hands for the benefit of humanity. He said that he has extended invitation to many foreign universities for the collaborative programmes.

Prof Frank R Dunshea and Dr S.S.Chauhan, while addressing the scientists and students, detailed information about the University of Melbourne established in 1853 and ongoing collaborations with India. They also informed about the facilities and capabilities of the faculty of veterinary and agricultural sciences and the potential of collaboration with the Palampur farm university. They invited scientists and students to their institute.

The delegation visited molecular cytogenetics and tissue culture lab, departments of food science, nutrition and technology, livestock farm complex, veterinary clinical complex, etc. They held a detailed meeting with the University statutory officers on points of interest of both universities. Dr.S.P.Dixit, Director of Research made presentation on academic, research and extension activities.

H.P. farmers to get the option to have only female calves through artificial insemination: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHAPU

Palampur 4 April. CSK H.P. Agriculture University achieved a rare feat today when a female calf was born through the use of sexed semen. It was in April last year that the University had 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 H.P.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary,Vice-Chancellor, while congratulating the veterinary scientists, told that the experiment to produce only female calves by inseminating the cow with sexed semen has remained successful as the Sahiwal breed cow has delivered a healthy female calf. He expressed the hope that now onwards, the farmers of Himachal Pradesh engaged in cattle rearing and the dairy industry will get an option to have only female calves from their cows.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, told that the new research project has proved its immense value in genetic up-gradation of the exotic as well as indigenous breed of cattle being reared in H.P. He said that the success of producing only female calves 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 has started giving results about important parameters like milk production and genetic potential in the progeny. As the sex of calves is selected at the time of A.I., so the stray cattle menace will also be tackled easily.

The Vice-Chancellor told that this was the first-ever organized study undertaken regarding the use of sexed semen in the State. It is in operation in two phases since April last year and will continue for another six months. In the first phase 100 farmers rearing Jersey cows and Sahiwal, an indigenous breed of cows are benefitting from the project. At present 74 Jersey and Sahiwal cattle are in the advanced stage of pregnancy and all these were artificially inseminated with sexed semen received from ABS India Private Limited, Pune.

He said that the University is known for its quality research benefiting the farming community. He told that this high-impact research in the department of veterinary gynaecology for the enhancement of livestock production efficiency has started yielding results which will be benefiting dairy farmers of the state.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary appreciated Dr. Akshay Sharma, Principal Investigator, Dr. Pravesh Kumar, Co-Principal Investigator of the project and Dr. Madhumeet Singh, retired Head, Deptt. of Veterinary Gynaecology and Director of Extension Education for brining this new technique to the University. Prof H.K.Chaudhary and Dr.(Mrs) Parveen Lata Chaudhary, first lady of the University named the newly born female calf as �Ambika� and worshipped and garlanded it today. All statutory officers, heads and veterinary scientists were present during the visit of Vice-Chancellor to Livestock Complex

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor distributes superior breeding bucks to Gaddi farmers

Palampur March 17. CSK H.P. Agriculture University was working on the new projects on animal disease management and disaster management and these will be implemented soon for the welfare of farmers. This was announced by Prof.H.K.Chaudhary, Vice Chancellor in "Annual Buck Distribution programme" at Dr.G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences under 'Indian Council of Agricultural Research- All India Coordinated Research Project on Goat Improvement.' The Vice-Chancellor distributed twelve superior Gaddi breed breeding bucks to different progressive goat (Gaddi) farmers of the state.

Prof Chaudhary informed that he was committed to strengthen the association of his University with Gaddi farmers of the state. He told 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 said that the scientists of the Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding 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 also interacted with the younger generation and women farmers present at the programme and envisaged their role in traditional rearing practices. He also shared his long term association with the Gaddi community. The Vice-Chancellor also elaborated about various new technologies and services that are underway for enhancing nutritional security for the animals during commute.

Dr. Mandeep Sharma, Dean, COVAS emphasized the utility of the project to the farmers. Dr. V.K Sharma, Director Extension Education and Dr. S.P Dixit, Director Research 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 said that more than 1600 pure Gaddi goats were being monitored under the project. Dr Sandeep Mishra Assistant Director, Animal Husbandry sensitized the farmers regarding current centrally sponsored schemes. Drs. Nishant Verma, Principal Investigator, Anurag Sharma, Varun Sankhyan, Ankur Sharma and Praveen Sharma were also present on this occasion.

Medicinal plants are blessings by the mother nature: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU

Palampur 17 March. A daylong "Stakeholders' meet of medicinal plant sector of Himachal Pradesh" was held at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today. In his inaugural address Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, underlined the need to utilize and harvest scientifically the rich treasurer of herbs, medicinal and other plant genetic resources in the great Himalayas.

He said that the stakeholders including growers, traders, processors and industrialists of the state can take lead in this direction. He informed that medicinal plants were blessings by the Mother Nature which play a pivotal role in the human life. Much has been written and documented in many religious scriptures. �We need to assimilate this knowledge and pass it on to the younger generations�, opined Prof Chaudhary. The Vice-Chancellor said that the farmers need technical and financial support for producing herbs and other medicinal plants. Along with their conventional farming they should be encouraged to grow medicinal plants which fetch rich dividends. He declared that his University will effectively support farmers in their all endeavours for taking up the cultivation of medicinal plants and value addition and processing.

Prof Chaudhary said that systematic work is required in herbs and medicinal plants as these were not less than diamond and gold. He said that there was no plant on the earth which has no medicinal value. He mentioned utility of several herbs and medicinal plants in our homes like brahmi, karkara, ashwagansha, tulsi, banaksha, ajvayan, anardana, pudina, haldi, amla, bahera, doobghas, etc. The world has got patents of many of such plants and we have lagged behind in it. The Vice-Chancellor asked all concerned to be aware and active for such issues to protect the intellectual property rights.

Dr Vijay Chaudhary, Principal, Rajiv Gandhi PG Ayurvedic College, Paprola said that the world has realized the role and utility of Ayurveda and AYUSH medicines during the pandemic. Ashvagandha is used in around 100 medicines. He said that availability of raw material for quality medicine continues to be a challenge. Col Rajesh Kumar, Incharge, 98 Mobile Field Veterinary Hospital, Charhi informed that effort has been made that soldiers also learn to grow medicinal plants and adopt it as an avocation after their retirement. He said that some traditional treatments have been introduced for horses, mules, dogs, etc with the army. Dr Arun Chandan, Regional Director, Regional-cum-Felicitation Centre Northern Region-1, Jogindernagar under National Medicinal Plant Board, Ministry of AYUSH, told that there are more than 9000 industries involved in Ayurveda medicine production but there is deficiency of raw material due to multiple reasons. He detailed several new initiatives benefiting farmers and industry. Dr Punam, Organising Secretary and Dr D.R.Nag, Advisor, Regional-cum- Felicitation Centre also expressed their views.

Stakeholders from the industry, progressive farmers from all over the state and technical resource persons also enthusiastically interacted and deliberated on several issues. The University statutory officers, Programme Coordinators of Krishi Vigyan Kendras, scientists, students and doctors attended the programme. Some participants attended the meet online.

Oath Taking Ceremony at COVAS:Agriculture Minister Shri Virender Kanwar asks scientists and students to serve the farming community with dedication: Oath taking ceremony for passing out 50 graduates was organised at Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences at CSK H.P. Agriculture University today. Chief Guest Shri Virender Kanwar, Minister of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, while addressing the scientists and students asked them to serve the farming community with complete dedication. He said 107 posts of veterinary officers will be filled up this year besides veterinary pharmacists and class four employees. He asked scientists to conduct research on Pahari cow and suggests ways to make cow sanctuaries self sustaining. He elaborated efforts of the government to make farming profitable and said that farmers should be trained and motivated to become successful entrepreneurs. He told that it was farming which has propelled economy during pandemic with three percent growth rate. He asked youngest to adopt farming, animal husbandry etc. with new technology and financial and other incentives from the government. He also spoke on the importance of sheep, goat and other animals in the state. The Minister distributed internship completion certificates to the graduates. He also released scientific and technical publications. Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor told that the college has earned name and fame throughout the country with several achievements. He appreciated the commendable work at Advanced Veterinary Multispecialty Center, Animal Disease Investigation Laboratory and Livestock Farms for the benefit of livestock keepers. While congratulating the passing out graduates, the Vice-Chancellor exhorted them to shed the tag of 'officer' and create distinct identity by distinguished service to the needy farmers settled in remote and less accessible areas of the state.He said that areas like Lahaul-Spiti, Pangi,Bharmaur,Kinnaur,etc. are best for quality research. He asked scientists to conserve and preserve rich plant and animal genetic resources in Himalayas. Sh.Trilok Kapoor, Chairman, H.P.Wool Federation said that among total animal number in H.P., 40 percent were sheep and goat. Dr Mandeep Sharma, Dean, informed that 50 Bachelor of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry (B.V.Sc. & A.H.) graduates, including two students from Bhutan were passing out today and already 940 students have graduated from the college since its inception in 1986. Drs Desh Raj and Pankaj Sood and also expressed their views. Dr Amit Guleria, SDM, Shri Sandeep Sood, Registrar and other University statutory officers and scientists, parents of neo graduates and officers from the the State Department of Animal Husbandry. Department of Agriculture and retired teachers from the college were present in the ceremony.

Working hard to transform University as per the international standards: Vice-Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhary

Palampur 5 March.CSK H.P. Agriculture University and TQ Services, a division of Tata Projects Limited, Hyderabad have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for implementing Quality Management System in the University.

According to Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, the vision of this collaboration is for the ISO certification of quality management systems. It presents the delegation to flexibility, constant development and provides high-grade quality education to the students. Certification of ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System covers all the academic activities and support services research, consultancy and testing services, administrative co-curricular and extracurricular activities in the University. The Vice-Chancellor said that he aims to bring his University among top five farm universities in the country in the coming times. He said that the certification of the university shall improve the performance of the institution as a whole by introduction of new quality control mechanisms. Prof Chaudhary disclosed that every employee will be trained in the principles and dimensions of quality. He expressed the hope that mandated areas of teaching, research and extension education will improve further to provide world class services to the students, farmers and others.

The MoU was signed by Dr.D.K.Vatsa, Dean, College of Agriculture and Mr. Krishna Chaitnya Verma, Consultant, TQS in the presence of Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor. Shri Sandeep Sood, HAS, Registrar and all Deans and Directors were present on the occasion.

Farmers should supplement their income: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor. CSKHPAU

Palampur 04 March. A Farmer-Scientist interaction and scientific advisory committee (SAC) meeting of CSK H.P. Agriculture University Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Hamirpur was held at Bharmoti (Naduan) today. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, chaired the meeting and appreciated the hardworking farmers of the Hamirpur district as they have earned name in vegetable cultivation. The Vice-Chancellor appreciated the role of farm women in agriculture, especially in vegetable production, mushroom cultivation, bee-keeping, floriculture, animal husbandry, etc and asked the farmers to explore the possibility of goat rearing to increase their income. He sought their feedback on several issues including climate change, value addition, etc. The Vice-Chancellor underlined the importance of conservation and preservation of traditional crop varieties like 'Nadauni Muli' and other plant genetic resources. He asked them to adopt the scientific farming with active support from Krishi Vigyan Kendra extension specialists to increase their income. He asked the farmers to discuss their farm related issues with the extension specialists to resolve these on priority. He said that all district level departments engaged in the welfare of farmers should work in perfect coordination.

The Vice-Chancellor also visited an exhibition of farm produce by the farmers, different products by self help groups and farm inputs by agriculture input companies. He honoured six Krishi Doots from six blocks of the district.

Dr. Pardeep Kumar, Programme Coordinator, KVK presented a report of the work done and future programmes. Dr.Mandeep Sharma, Dean, College of Veterinary & Animal Science Dr.Pawan Kumar Pathania, Associate Director of Extension Education and some heads of department and scientists from the main campus Palampur and Dr.Kamal Sharma, Dean, College of Horticulture & Agro forestry, Nairi also interacted with the farmers and provided them relevant scientific information about natural and organic farming, agriculture, animal husbandry, horticulture etc. A question-answer session was also held. Around 200 progressive farmers including Shri Hukam Chand, Sh Baljeet Sandhu, etc. and district level officers took part in farmer-scientist interaction and SAC meeting enthusiastically.

Vice-Chancellor Prof H.K.Chaudhary asks students to integrate science and technology for sustainable future

Palampur 26 February. National Science Day and Mathematics Day celebrations culminated at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today. Chief Guest Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, recalled the contributions and scientific brilliance of Indian Physicist Sir C. V. Raman and lauded the efforts of all those great Indian scientists whose innovations and discoveries made country proud. He said that due to various scientific discoveries and technological innovations, the life of common man has improved.

The Vice-Chancellor said that the country was surplus in food grains production due to large number of discoveries and developments in farm science and the country has achieved several milestone in different spheres like medicine, communication, etc which has revolutionized these sectors. He exhorted students to integrate science and technology for sustainable future He exhorted scientists for introspection and treating research scholars as their friends.

Dr Anita Singh, Dean, College of Basic Science informed that the National Science Day was celebrated on the theme Integrated Approach in Science and Technology for Sustainable Future with the active participation of students from four constituent colleges. Dr Sharda Singh, Coordinator-cum-President, Science detailed various competitions organised during the last two months starting with National Mathematics Day to National Science Day.

Results of various competitions: In Science Day Theme Quiz competition, teams Tarun Kapoor & Kish Bhardwaj, Ajay Kumar & Snayu and Madhusudan & Anshika Dhatwal won the first, second and third prize respectively whereas in mathematics quiz, teams Sahil Kumar & Akshit, Yishu Thakur & Rahul and Sarthak Devdutt & Vaishali bagged first, second and third prizes. The first, second and third prize winners for slogan writing on Science day theme were bagged by Aanchal Bakshi, Himshika and Malika Kanwar respectively whereas in mathematics day theme, Gurkiran Kaur and Jitender Singh received the first and second position. In Essay writing competition on national science day theme, Tarun Kapoor, Vanshika and Shivanshi Mankotia stood first, second and third respectively whereas Gurkirandeep Kaur, Rishita Kapoor and Stuti Kaushal bagged the first, second and third prizes on Mathematics day theme. Rishita Kapoor, Gurkirandeep Kaur and Vikas Chaudhary participated in the declamation contest of Mathematics Day theme and bagged the first, second and third positions respectively whereas for Science Day theme Tarun Kapoor, Eva Sharma and Aakash Thakur were the first, second and third prize winners respectively. In poster making competition, for Science Day theme, Paalki Gupta, Sukriti Kheterpal and Ritika Chaudhary stood first, second and third respectively whereas Anshikawalia, Aryan and Anjali Singh stood first, second and third respectively in Poster making competition on Mathematics Day Theme.In model making competition the teams Aarushlal & Tarun Kapoor, Shagun Sood & Anshika and Sakshi Verma & Anshika Rani won the first, second and third prize respectively on Science day theme whereas teams Akansha & Aanchal Kapoor, Gaurav Kumar & Madhusudan and Rashika Vyas& Nikhil Pathania stood first, second and third on mathematics day theme respectively.In Power Point Presentation competition Tarun Kapoor, Rishita Kapoor and Ritvik Katoch bagged the first , second and third position respectively whereas for mathematics day theme; first, second and third prize winners were Gurkirandeep Kaur, Gaurav and Priyanka respectively.

The programme was supported by the Himachal Pradesh Council for Science, Technology & Environment and National Council of Science, Technology & Communication. All the statutory officers, conveners of the events Dr Usha Rana, Dr Ranbir Singh Rana, Dr Suman Sharma, Dr Sheela Thakur, Sh Kapil Sharma, Sh Vaibhav Kalia, Dr Manjula Sharma, Dr Radhika Sharma, Dr Rishi Mahajan, Dr Abhishek Walia, Sh.Arun Kumar and Dr Banti Kumar, other scientists and students attend the programme.

Pulse crops gifts of mother nature which enrich human diet: Prof H.K.Chaudhary,Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 10 February. To commemorate World Pulse Day and create awareness among farmers, students and general masses, a seminar was organised at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, while inaugurating the programme, said that due to agro-climatic advantages, Himachal Pradesh has great potential for growing pulses. Despite "Daal-Bhaat" (Pulses-rice) being a daily food of people in the State, the farmers have lost enthusiasm for growing pulses. They are not growing pulses adequately due to various reasons after the introduction of high yielding wheat, rice and maize varieties which are dependent on chemical fertilizers. Since pulse crops were intolerant to heavy doses of chemical fertilizers so the farmers were no more growing pulses as intercrop. He underlined the importance of balanced use of fertilizers. The Vice-Chancellor said that pulse crops can be grown as intercrop in organic and natural farming.

The Vice-Chancellor said that pulse crops were a gift from nature and major crops intermixed with pulses decorate the farm besides making soil healthier. He told that pulses make environment clean by fixing nitrogen from atmosphere and enriching soil. Prof Chaudhary asked farmers to grow pulses even if production is low. It will save their resources and they need not purchase pulses from the market. The farmers need to take advantage of more than two dozen high yielding pulse crop varieties and technology developed by the University for enhancing pulse production.

Dr.S.P.Dixit, Director of Research and Dr.D.K.Vatsa, Dean, College of Agriculture told that pulses were essential component of our daily food. The state produces pulses like rajmash, mash, kulthi, moth, chana, masur, rongi, arhar, ricebean,lal mah or adjuki bean, etc. In the past these had been used as intercrops with major cereal crops like maize and wheat. Many products are made from pulses. Drs. V.K.Sood, Janardan Singh, Vedna Kumai, Farhan Bhatt and Gopal Katna delivered special lectures on the importance of pulse cultivation. Around 100 farmers from Maulichak, post graduate students and scientists attended the programme. The World Pulse Day was also celebrated at university research stations and Krishi Vigyan Kendras.

Palampur 10 February. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University's Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) at Sundernagar (Mandi) has been awarded the best project for the execution of projects funded by NABARD under Farm Sector Promotion Fund in the State.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor told that NABARD and the University had signed a MoU in 2019 on a project worth Rs. 24.90 lakh to make agriculture more profitable and sustainable. Since the implementation of the project, 28 off-campus training programs benefiting around 1300 farmers and 10 on-campus skill development trainings for 300 farmers on mushroom cultivation were organized by the KVK, Sundarnagar. The Vice-Chancellor told that it was encouraging that about 70 percent of trained farmers have adopted the cultivation of button mushroom and oyster mushroom commercially and 20 trainees have been working as ambassadors of NABARD and KVK and they further trained more than 500 farmers across the district. Apart from this, about 50 self-help groups are now actively working to promote mushroom cultivation.

The Vice-Chancellor while congratulating Dr. Pankaj Sood, Programme Coordinator, KVK, Sundarnagar and his team has expressed the hope that NABARD will allocate more funds to the University for execution of such farmer-friendly projects. The award was presented by Shri Virendra Kanwar, Minister of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Fisheries, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj at Shimla on 9 February.

Let's be our own managers during the testing times: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, VC, CSKHPAU

Palampur 05 February. Basant Panchami festival was celebrated with enthusiasm at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University today. Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, performed Pooja of goddess Saraswati at the College of Agriculture and greeted the University community on the occasion of Basant Panchami.

While addressing the staff and students, he said that Maa Saraswati is the goddess of wisdom, knowledge, creative arts, languages, learning and purity. He sought blessing of the goddess for taking forward the University in all spheres of academics, research and extension education. The Vice-Chancellor said that despite three waves of the pandemic, the University has moved ahead with full pace.

While expressing his sympathy with the students who have been compelled to stay indoors and endure stress due to disruptions in their regular studies, he advised them to be their own managers to face new kind of challenges and emerge winners. He asked students to seek blessings of Maa Saraswati regularly.

Dr.D.K.Vatsa, Dean, College of Agriculture and Dr. Pardeep Kumar, President, College of Agriculture Palampur Alumni Association (CAPAA) also expressed their views. All statutory officers also offered their respects to the goddess Saraswati in the premises of COA. Sweets were distributed to all present on the occasion.

Create awareness about Intellectual Property Rights among stakeholders: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU

Palampur 03 February. Prof. H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor CSK H.P. Agriculture has underlined the importance and need for greater awareness and literacy about Intellectual Property Rights(IPRs) among stakeholders. The Vice-Chancellor was addressing the participants in a two day online 'Conference on IPRs: Steppingstone towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat' here today.

Prof. Chaudhary said that the Protection of Plant Varieties & Farmers' Rights Act, 2001(PPV&FRA) takes care of farmers, breeders and the seed industry in India. Different forms of IPRs are being applied in agriculture and allied sectors. While doing so many problems were being encountered by researchers, policy planners, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders. "Our University has pledged to take agriculture-related IPR issues in the State to a higher platform and has taken several initiatives in the recent past", informed Prof Chaudhary. The Intellectual Property Rights Cell of the University was actively engaged in helping the farmers in creating awareness and getting their crop varieties registered and getting national awards to them. He also told that the University has assigned the Krishi Vigyan Kendras to work on 'One valley-one Product' and campaign for 'Vocal for Local' to economically empower the farmers and others.

He also spoke on the need to conserve genetic resources in North-Western Himalayas by creating awareness in local languages about patenting and IPR issues. He asked all concerned to watch the interests of farmers. The Vice-Chancellor also spoke on shrinking land and water resources, threats from climate change, etc. He said that India has been benevolent to share its resources liberally for the benefit of mankind but developed nations and their farmers were working as corporate to get benefits out of their innovations. He said that efforts must be made to utilize our own genetic resources.

Dr Dnyaneshwar Mulay, Patron of Institute of Positivity, Mr. D.C.Rana, D.C. Chamba, IPR experts Ms. Tritpi Dutta, Ms.Madhuvanti Kelkar, Dr Jayashri Bangali and Mr.Sarang Vinze detailed progress to resolve problems on IPR related issues. Mr Shashi Dhar from HIMCOSTE, Shimla, University Statutory Officers Drs S.P.Dixit, Satish Paul and D.K.Vatsa, Organising Secretary Dr.Daisy Basandrai and Co-organizing Secretary Dr. Virender Kumar also spoke on Geographical Indications, IPR acts, etc. Around a hundred postgraduate students, faculty, budding entrepreneurs and administrators are taking part in the online conference jointly organized by the University and Institute of Positivity, Ghaziabad.

CSK HPAU and NFL to sign MoU:Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor: Palampur 28 January: CSK H.P. Agriculture University will enter into MoU with National Fertilizers Limited for research and extension activities benefitting farming community. This was announced by Prof. H.K.Chaudhary,Vice Chancellor during a meeting here today. The Vice Chancellor said that NFL chair will be established in the University to conduct research as per the needs of NFL.He said that the students of the University will be attached with NFL for agro industrial training and efforts will be made to seek assistance of NFL for marketing of red rice and other university products. He discussed issues like soil health cards, balanced use of fertilizers and organic fertilizers, etc. Prof Chaudhary informed that aggressive efforts have been made to assist farmers with precise and specific technology suiting as per their area and requirements of state farmers. He said that scientific decisions about farming systems should not be taken emotionally but should be based strictly on long term research data. He suggested NFL to consider adding micro nutrients in Urea. He said that University crop varieties have been accepted and were performing well all over the country.He told that the University was very well spread in H.P. and has contributed immensely for the socio economic development of farming community.He also elaborated about major strengths of the University in research and extension education. The Vice-Chancellor told that some progressive farmers will also be involved during all collaborative programmes with NFL. Earlier Sh.Anil Motsara Director Marketing NFL sought University help in vocational training to the farmers, soil testing campaigns, joint efforts for enhancing farmers income, etc. He said collaboration will be made to encourage farmers for growing pulses and oilseed crops in the region. He said precision farming will help farmers in enhancing farmers income.

Sh Dilbag Singh, Zonal Manager, Sh.Yoginder Singh Dy.General Manager, Sh LR Jangra, Deputy General Manager and Sh. Rajbir Taya, State Manager detailed about NFL. The University Statutory Officers and some scientists were present in the meeting.

Republic Day Celebrations at CSKHPAU: We will serve the farmers with unflagging zest: Vice-Chancellor Prof.H.K.Chaudhary: Republic Day was celebrated with enthusiasm and gaiety at CSK H.P.Agriculture University here today. Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor unfurled the National Flag and took salute from the contingent of Security staff of the University. The Vice-Chancellor asked the University community to imbibe the spirit of this important and pious day. He said that it was time to bow our heads to all those great leaders who laid a firm foundation of the country. He said educationist bring glory to the nation and we need to introspect and contribute significantly for nation building. He also thanked the University community and farmers for helping him in taking forward the University. He said the the University will continue to serve the students, farmers, entrepreneurs and others with unflagging zest. He said more facilities will be provided to them .Prof Chaudhary said that many new programs have been envisaged and some of new schemes have, already, been implemented integrating the working of the institution. He appreciated the University security staff and told that many new landmarks have been established at the campus adding more infrastructure. Whole campus has been spruced up. The Vice-Chancellor also spoke on the New Education Policy and the University efforts to adopt it at the earliest. He also disclosed about several new programs and appreciated the NCC and NSS volunteers who could not participate due to prevailing pandemic and restrictions. The Vice-Chancellor detailed new initiatives in academics, research and extension education. He said research stations have been strengthen with new appointments. He expressed his gratitude to the worthy Chancellor and Governor of H.P. for his guidance and regular support of the State Government. He appreciated Dr.V.K.Sharma, Students Welfare Officer and his staff for organizing the programme in well organized manner. All the statutory officers, heads and some scientists and non teaching employees participated in the celebrations following Covid-19 protocols.

Palampur 22 January. The scientists of CSK H.P. Agriculture University have developed five new crop varieties which have been notified in the Gazette of India. This was disclosed by Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor told that newly developed crop varieties include Him Palam Maize Composite-1 of Maize; Him Palam Gobhi Sarson-1 of Gobhi Sarson; Him Palam White Clover-1 of White Clover; Him Palam Hara Soya-1 of Soybean and Trombay Him Palam Mustard -1 of Mustard.

He informed that the Maize variety "Him Palam Maize Composite-1" is recommended for hill zone of Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttrakhand, Assam, Tripura and Meghalaya and has shown resistance towards diseases. While the oilseed variety viz. Him Palam Gobhi Sarson-1 has substantially low levels of anti-nutritional factors like erucic acid and glucosinolates. It is recommended for H.P., Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir. New mustard variety 'Trombay Him Palam Mustard-1' is tolerant towards aphids. Soybean variety Him Palam Hara Soya-1 is resistant to major diseases of Soybean. New fodder variety Him Palam White Clover-1 is recommended for temperate grasslands, pastures and orchards of North-Hill zone of H.P. and neighboring State of Uttrakhand and U.T. of Jammu & Kashmir .

Vice Chancellor Professor H.K. Chaudhary has congratulated the University scientists viz. Drs. S.K.Guleria, Uttam Chand, Adarsh Bala, V.K. Sood and Vedna Kumari and also Dr. S. J. Jambhulkar from Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai for this significant research accomplishment at the state and national level. He has expressed hope that the farmers would adopt the newly developed varieties to increase their yield and income. These varieties have been notified in the Gazette of India on 24 December 2021.


Him Palam Maize Composite-1	Him Palam Hara Soya-1

Trombay Him Palam Mustard-1	Him Palam White Clover-1

Him Palam Gobhi Sarson 1

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Farmers need quality seed, good breed and feed as per their needs: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, VC, CSKHPAU

56 scientists appointed and 84 more staffers to be recruited soon: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, VC, CSKHPAU

Palampur 4 January. Thirty-two scientists have been appointed recently and the process to fill up 84 positions of teaching and non-teaching staff was underway at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, this was informed by Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, during a press conference, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor said that during the last year, the University has filled up 56 positions of scientists and 23 posts of non-teachers. In the last fortnight, interviews were conducted for 32 posts of scientists and appointment orders were also issued. Out of these newly recruited scientists, 14 scientists have been posted at the University research stations situated in Kinnaur, Lahaul & Spiti, Chamba and other districts. This will accelerate research activities and help in the conservation and propagation of rich bio-resources of the state. He told that National Education Policy warrants the increasing number of students so the staff strength will also be increased gradually. Besides recruiting three more teachers, the University is making all-out efforts to declare the results and complete the recruitment process of 81 posts of Junior Office Assistants, Clerks, Field Assistants, etc. this month only.

He told that the University has also initiated work to demonstrate integrated farming systems to the farmers of the state and through Startups; young entrepreneurs are being encouraged to take up scientific farming. Involving progressive farmers, Seed Village Concept has been started to make the State self-sufficient on the seed front. Designating the progressive farmers as Krishi Doots, the University is making effort to strengthen its network in nook and corner of the state. Fifty one Krishi Doots have been requested to spread the farm technology among their neighborhood. The University is also making a serious effort to conserve local landraces and other Himalayan bio resources and getting these registered and getting GIs.

He told that scarcity of green fodder was a major problem for livestock keepers in the state and for the first time, the University has been able to prepare 4500 quintal silage in 15 silo pits. Now, the farmers will be demonstrated and trained in this simple technology. The University has also started work on snow trout and eel fish species.

Prof H.K.Chaudhary thanked and appreciated the media for highlighting the excellent work at the University and giving feedback at regular intervals. He asked them to visit any of the research stations or Krishi Vigyan Kendra to interact with staff and farmers. Shri Sandeep Sood, HAS, Registrar and Dr.Hirday Paul Singh, Jt. Director (Information & Public Relations) were present at the press conference attended by around a dozen media persons representing various print and electronic media channels.

Farmers need quality seed, good breed and feed as per their needs: Prof H.K.Chaudhary, VC, CSKHPAU

Palampur 1 January. "CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University will help in making state reliant in seeds by involving progressive farmers", this was announced by Prof H.K.Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

While addressing the university community on the occasion of New Year, the Vice-Chancellor said that he has tried to integrate the old age rich tradition of 'Gurukul' system of education with modern scientific temper and each employee and student have contributed to take forward the university to newer heights. The University stands tall among top ten farm universities of the country; thought overall rank has been declared at 14th place among all Indian Council of Agricultural Research and Agricultural Universities of the country. He exhorted all teachers to make all out efforts enabling the University students to excel in life and make farming a profitable venture for each and every farmer of the state. He also asked scientists to give attention for niche based research and seek international collaborations so that students and scientists may visit top labs and institutions of the world. He said that the University will be strengthened further this year to fulfill the given mandate of teaching, research and extension education.

The Vice-Chancellor said that the great Himalayas have given much to the humanity. These are rich source of medicinal plants, traditional crops with unique identity and qualities, other flora and fauna but this strength has not been explored much. He cited the example of traditional crops, diversity in food, attire, music, dances, environment, etc. and said that we need to explore, identify and showcase this rich treasure in a polished way to the world. He asked the scientists to get maximum Himalayan commodities registered and file GIs where ever possible so that these gain national and international attention. This will help farmers to reap rich dividends. He cited example of red rice whose selling price has touched Rs.750 per kg in some areas of the state after university helped the farmers to get it registered and get national award.

Prof Chaudhary told that farmers need quality seed, good breed and feed as per their needs so the University will face challenges like developing varieties which need less irrigation water and perform well in adverse climate too. He said that teachers should develop entrepreneurship among students. Krishi Vigyan Kendras and Research Stations should also help in this direction by developing good modern research farms. He said that integrated farming system models can help small and marginal farmers. Demonstration of such models will give examples to the farmers. He said that farm based avocations like bee-keeping, develop shiitake mushroom units, etc. should be popularized among farmers for additional source of income.

The Vice-Chancellor said that public private partnership was very important as this is an era to grow together. This will also bring more money to the institution. This will also help the students to become job creators. Farmers' network should be strengthened so that he gets useful information sitting at his home. He said that 75 progressive farmers as Krishi Doots will be selected throughout the state during Azadi Ka Amritmahatosav so that such farmers help to create awareness among other farmers of their respective arrears. Fifty one such Krishi Doots have, already, been selected and honoured. He said that community radio station will be established at Mandi soon. 19 MOUs have been signed in the last one year which will accelerate research benefitting farmers.He told that to overcome the problem of fodder in winters, the university has moved ahead by developing silage pits in the University by sowing 25 hectares area with maize and now 20 silo pits have been filled up with 4500 quintal silage.

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor inaugurated a glow sign, 'I love CSKHPKV- Transforming India through Agriculture' in front of the University Auditorium.

All the Statutory Officers, three senators, presidents of teaching and non teaching unions also expressed their views. All scientists, non teaching staff and the students attended the ceremony.

Event	Position	College	Winners
Elocution	I	COCS	Akanksha Rana
Elocution	II	COVAS	Vanshika
Extempore	I	COVAS	Amisha Sharma
Extempore	II	COA	Gracy Singh
On the spot Painting	I	COCS	Tamanna Sharma
On the spot Painting	II	COVAS	Vatsal Sanyal
Collage	I	COCS	Muskan Rana
Collage	II	COVAS	Jitender Singh
Poster Making	I	COCS	Shagun Jamwal
Poster Making	II	COVAS	SukritiKheterpal
Clay Modeling	I	COCS	Maneesha Kumari
Clay Modeling	II	COVAS	Anvi Thakur
Cartooning	I	COCS	Muskan Rana
Cartooning	II	COA	Aryan
Rangoli	I	COCS	Palak
Rangoli	II	COA	Parul
Mimicry	I	COVAS	Nimesh Sharma
Mimicry	II	COA	Priyanshu Mehra

College of Agriculture	Rs. 8,14,941
Dr GCN COVAS	Rs. 6, 27,456
Directorate of Ext. Education	Rs. 3,65,512

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CSK H. P. Agricultural University, Palampur 176062