Archive NEWS  2016

CSK H. P. Agricultural University, Palampur 176062

Last Updated: January 02, 2017

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Last Updated: December 22, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/90 Dated: 22 December, 2016

 

CSKHPAU organizes Workshop on Cashless Transactions for the students

Palampur 22 December. CSK H.P. Agriculture University arranged second awareness workshop under digital financial literacy campaign for its students and Programme Coordinators of  Krishi Vigyan Kendras  and  Associate Directors and Scientist Incharges of research stations. Bank Managers and representatives of all major banks like State Bank of India, State Bank of Patiala, HDFC bank, Axis Bank, etc. made presentations to educate the students and others about cashless mode of transactions and its merits.

The students were informed that the university has decided that each student should educate at least ten families about the new-age digital economy and cashless modes of transactions and two appreciation awards will be given to those students of the constituent colleges of the university who motivate maximum number of people in adoption of cashless modes of transactions.

Dr. Kamlesh Singh, Dean, College of Basic Sciences administered oath to the students and other participants for adopting cashless transactions in daily life. The oath is about making transactions in cashless mode through cheque, ATM card, credit card, electronic wallet, mobile or net banking, etc. and educating at least ten families about the merits of such modes of transactions.  Dr. Ashwani Basandrai, Dean Post Graduate Studies and  Dr. Ashok Kumar, OSD to Vice-Chancellor also expressed their views about the importance of students' involvement in mass awareness programme.

Mr Satish Kumar Sharma, Registrar; Dr Sumati Rekha Kataira, Dean, College of Home Science; Dr. R.K.Agnihotri, Dean, Dr. Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences and Dr Dinesh Badiyala, Dean, College of Agriculture  were also present during the workshop. Around 500 students and others participated in the workshop

 

Pic caption: A view of oath taking ceremony and participating students and scientists

 

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Last Updated: December 17, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/89 Dated: 17 December, 2016

 

Veterinary scientists from CSKHPAU organize infertility camps in  Bilaspur district

 

Palampur 17 December. A team of veterinary scientists from CSK  Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University organized  infertility camps in seven villages of district Bilaspur from 13-17 December.  Prof. Madhumeet Singh, Professor-cum-Head, Department of Veterinary Gynaecology & Obstetrics, told that around 200 cows and buffaloes suffering from various infertility related problems were examined and treated at Nakhlehra, Jhandutta, Deoli, Jukhala, Badhyat, Beri and Jakatkhana villages of District Bilaspur under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna (RKVY) project in collaboration with H.P state Animal Husbandry department.

 

The Scientists collected uterine discharge samples from infertile animals to study the infections pattern causing reproductive diseases. Blood samples were also collected from these animals to study minerals and hormonal profile for detailed diagnosis of diseases. Some samples and data were also collected regarding abortions in animals of these areas for further studies. Free medicines were distributed to the farmers. Prof. Madhumeet Singh, who is also  Principal Investigator and Team leader, told that so far 154 veterinary infertility treatment camps have been organized in all parts of the State under this project in last three years. This includes more than 50 camps in some of the remotest localities of high altitude tribal and hard areas of Himachal Pradesh. Team included Dr. Madhumeet Singh, Dr. Pravesh  Kumar, Mr. Manoj Negi, Mr. Vijay Rana and Mr. Rakesh Kumar from Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Dr. G.C. Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences.

 

Prof. Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, has appreciated the veterinary scientists for serving the farmers by organizing infertility camps in remote and less accessible areas. He hoped that these clinical camps will continue in next year also.  

 

 

 

 

Infertility treatment camps in progress

 

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Last Updated: December 15, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/88 Dated: 16 December, 2016

Maiden Workshop on Cashless Transactions

 Prof A.K.Sarial urges farm varsity staff to educate masses about digital economy

 

Palampur 16 December. CSK H.P. Agriculture University took lead among all universities of the state by organizing an awareness workshop under digital financial literacy campaign for its staff.

While chairing the maiden workshop, Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor said that each employee should educate at least ten families about the new-age digital economy and cashless modes of transactions. He announced two appreciation awards each to those non-teaching and teaching staff members who motivate maximum number of people in adoption of cashless modes of transactions.

The Vice-Chancellor said that as per the advice of the Governor of Himachal Pradesh and Chancellor of the university, efforts have been made to make CSKHPAU hundred percent cashless in its all receipts and expenditure yet around ten percent small transactions were in cash but efforts were on to install swipe machines in departments and units where revolving funds were in operations. "Modalities are being worked out to deal with small amount received from farmers and other to purchase farm inputs like seeds, plantation material, animal feed, milk, etc", informed Prof Sarial. He also administered oath to the staff for adopting cashless transactions in daily life. The oath is about making transactions in cashless mode through cheque, ATM card, credit card, electronic wallet, mobile or net banking, etc. and educating at least ten families before 12 January 2017 about the merits of such modes of transactions. He said that after demonetization, cashless society will enable the nation to minimize corruption, terrorism and menace of drugs. It will improve the image of the country world over. The Vice-Chancellor appreciated the staff for leading an honest life and contributing in the progress of the country by paying income tax. Prof Sarial told that similar training workshop has been planned for the university students on 21 December.

Mr J.M.Awasthi, Comptroller, Dr.Ashwani Basandrai, Dean Post Graduate Studies and  Dr.Ashok Kumar, OSD to Vice-Chancellor also expressed their views. Bank Managers and representatives of all major banks like State Bank of India, State Bank of Patiala, HDFC bank, Axis Bank, etc. made presentations to educate the staff about cashless mode of transactions and its advantages.

Mr Satish Kumar Sharma, Registrar and other University statutory officers, teaching and non-teaching employees actively participated in the workshop and sought clarifications on several issues from bankers.

 

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Last Updated: December 15, 2016

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No. QSD/MC/86 Dated: 15 December, 2016

CSKHPAU Veterinary Surgeons awarded Gold Medal and Appreciation Certificate

Palampur 15 December. In the recently concluded annual congress and symposium of the Indian Society of Veterinary Surgeons at Chennai, Drs Adarsh Kumar and U.B.Farooq from the Department of Veterinary Surgery & Radiology, Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, CSK H.P. Agriculture University were awarded gold medal and certificate for the best paper and significant research contribution entitled, "Ultrasonographic differentiation between true and false colic in horses." Drs S.K.Sharma, Adarsh Kumar, Amit Kumar and Neha Kapil were also awarded appreciation certificate for small anesthesia and the department got appreciation for scientific contributions in the areas of diagnostic imaging and surgery in large and small animals. Dr Adarsh Kumar also chaired a session and acted as jury in one session. Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, has appreciated the faculty and post graduate students.

 

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Last Updated: December 14, 2016

Media Cell

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No. QSD/MC/85 Dated: 14 December, 2016

A challenge to attract & retain youth in farming: D.S.Chibb

Palampur 14 December. A three days Zonal Workshop of  all Krishi Vigyan Kendras(KVKs)  of  Delhi, Haryana, Punjab , J&K and Himachal Pradesh concluded  at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

During the valedictory function, Chief Guest Shri Daljit Singh Chib, Vice-Chairman, J&K State Advisory Board for Development of  Kisans , said that it was a challenge to attract and retain youth in farming. He asked extension specialists to motive the younger generation so that they come forward and help the nation for increasing farm production. Sh Chibb said that the farmers should be educated about the importance of quality inputs and also to stop indiscriminate use of chemicals. He also appreciated the new initiatives like "Pradhan Mantri Krishi Bima Yojna".

In his presidential remarks Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor of the host university, suggested that technology savvy youngsters should be involved for marketing of farm produce, especially the produce by Self Help Groups. He also asked the scientists to help making hill states; especially Himachal Pradesh and J&K as leading states in organic farming as by default these states were organic due to low consumption of chemicals in agriculture. The Vice-Chancellor said that KVKs need liberal funding from the ICAR as they can become centers of excellence in each district. Prof Sarial also highlighted the importance of zero budget natural farming, production of quality seed, farm mechanization, women empowerment, value addition, micro irrigation technologies, climate resilient farming, development of entrepreneurship and asked KVKs to become engines of farm growth in their respective districts.

Dr.Rajbir Singh, Director, Agricultural Technology Assessment & Refinement Institute, ICAR, Ludhiana, presented major recommendations emerged in the three days workshop. He said that in this age of social media, it was important to develop an App for KVKs and also asked KVKs to work on creating their websites and see the possibility of establishing community radio, especially in J&K and making quality short documentaries. He said that duplicacy of experts must be avoided in KVKS and animal husbandry experts should be posted in each KVK. He said that technology inventory should be prepared for each district and State and seed hubs should be created. Dr Rajbir Singh also emphasized systematic knowledge management and more demonstrations on pulses and oilseeds.

  Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education of the host university told that despite many constraints, KVKs in hills were doing commendable job. He asked all KVKs to join hands to share among themselves those technologies where they have strength so that farmers'  income was doubled as per the directions of Prime Minister. Dr. Arvind Kumar, Principal Scientist, ATARI, also expressed his views. Shri D.C.Sati, Finance Officer, ATARI, explained issues related to financial and fiscal management of KVKs. Dr.R.S.Poswal, Assistant Director General, ICAR, also conveyed his message. Some directors of extension education from agricultural universities also expressed their views. The Chief Guest awarded KVKs at  Una, Patiala,Badgaon and Rohtak for their state-wise best presentations. He also honoured Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director Extension Education of host University for organizing successful and fruitful Zonal KVK Workshop. The Vice-Chancellor appreciated Dr Rajbir Singh and his team and honoured Drs Anand Singh, Suresh Kumar,Desh Raj Chaudhry, Pawan Sharma and Hirday Paul Singh, all from host university for their active positive role in the workshop.

Around 150 farm scientists from KVKs, other ICAR institutes, State Agricultural Universities and progressive farmers took part in the workshop.

 

Pic caption: Dignitaries on the dais and audience and  honour ceremonies

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Last Updated: December 12, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/84 Dated: 12 December, 2016

Zonal Workshop of  KVKs at CSKHPAU

Dr Gurbachan Singh, Chairman, Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board exhorts  KVKs to become harbingers of second green revolution in the country

 

Palampur 12 December. A three days Zonal Workshop of 75 Krishi Vigyan Kendras(KVKs)  of  Delhi, Haryana, Punjab , J&K and Himachal Pradesh was inaugurated at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today. Chief Guest Dr Gurbachan Singh,  Chairman, Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) while inaugurating the workshop said that KVKs can become harbingers of second green revolution in the country which was a must to increase crop production to feed the ever increasing population. He said that problems of agriculture were becoming complex and farm scientists need to work in a problem solving mode for each specific region and district. He lamented that the quality of water has reduced due to heavy pumping for irrigation purposes in food bowl states of the country like Punjab and Haryana.  "Many harmful metals have entered the food chain", he added and advised  recharge of ground water at each farm with the involvement of individual farmer. He also advised for reuse of waste water, water conservation, micro-irrigation etc. and asked whether hills need to produce rice and wheat instead of more specialized crops which can fetch more income to the farming community.

Dr Gurbachan Singh also spoke on the importance of soil health maintenance with organic matter, understanding climate change and advising the farmers at KVK level after analyses of the performance of crop varieties for each district, multiple uses of resources, learning and spreading good farmer practices, integrated farming.etc. He said that each village should be  able to produce its own seed and congratulated the scientific community for tremendous growth of agriculture in the country.

Dr.A.K.Singh, Deputy Director General, ICAR, in his presidential remarks, said that the Government of India has very high hopes from the KVKs and a large number of initiatives have been taken to strengthen this vital organ of agricultural extension system in the country. He asked the Vice-Chancellors of State Agricultural Universities to extend full support to KVKs and resolve their issues like filling up of vacant positions, especially those of animal husbandry specialists. He said that knowledge management, focus on oilseeds and pulses, establishing seed hubs for quality seed production, doubling farmers income, scientific management of crop straw and animal residues, attracting and retaining youth in agriculture, protected cultivation, etc. were some of the important areas where KVKs need to give top priority. Dr A.K.Singh, said that KVKs should be judicious to choose and adopt programmes suitable to their respective district and asked for production of quality seed and plantation material. He said that analysis of trainings programmes, front line demonstrations, etc. was a must.

Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor of the host university, informed that land holdings were becoming small and fragmented and such land holdings have increased from 6.4 lakh to 9.6 lakh in the last one decade in Himachal Pradesh. He emphasized that there was a need of reforms in land retention policy to reduce further fragmentation of land holdings in hill states like Himachal Pradesh. He expressed his satisfaction that farmers were adopting vegetable production, off season vegetables, potato and fruit cultivation in a big way. He  underlined the importance of animal husbandry in hill farming and also spoke on the role of women  in agriculture, organic agriculture, etc.

Dr.P.K.Sharma, Vice-Chancellor, SK University of Agricultural Science & Technology, Jammu, spoke  on the need for strengthening marketing facilities. Dr Balraj Singh, Vice-Chancellor, Agriculture University, Jodhpur said that technologies can help farmers to increase their income.

Dr.Rajbir Singh, Director, Agricultural Technology Assessment & Refinement Institute, ICAR, Ludhiana, presented an overview of KVKs in the region and told that  KVKs have been able to propel farm growth. He informed about the achievements and success stories of some KVKs. He told that  some progressive farmers will also share their experiences in the three days workshop.  Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education of the host university discussed ways to increase the farm income by honey production, scientific mushroom production, protected cultivation for income generation.etc. Dr. Arvind Kumar, Principal Scientist, ATARI, also expressed his views.

More than a dozen farm publications and DVDs were also released by the Chief Guest Dr Gurbachan Singh and DDG Dr A.K.Singh.

Around 150 farm scientists from various ICAR institutes, State Agricultural Universities and other government departments are taking part in the meeting.

 

 

Dignitaries on the dais

 

 

 

 

 

Honour ceremony and release of publications

 

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Last Updated: December 09, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/83 Dated: 09 December, 2016

Vital to adopt new-age digital economy & cashless transactions: Prof A.K.Sarial

 

Palampur 9 December. An orientation meeting under digital financial literacy campaign was held at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

 While chairing the meeting with all stakeholders like university officers, heads of departments, bank managers of the town, engineers and representatives from government departments, shopkeepers around the university and contractors of canteens in the university, Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor informed that it was imperative to adopt new-age digital economy and cashless modes of transactions. He said that as per the directions of the government, in due course of time, his university will not accept any payments in cash not it will pay in cash. Although major payments were, already, being received and paid online, yet all out efforts will be made to develop CSKHPAU as cashless campus and modalities were underway for the same. He said he has passed instructions to   make all transactions for   all services, shops, canteens, fees, fines, deposits, etc. cashless at the earliest. He also informed about the instructions passed by the Governor, Himachal Pradesh and Chancellor of the university on this issue. He sought cooperation from all in this direction and also sought their suggestions. He also discussed new modes of cash transfer like RTGS, ATM and Debit cards, and mobile Apps. Prof Sarial told that a training workshops on this issue will be organized soon.

Mr J.M.Awasthi, Comptroller, said that about ninety percent receipts and payments in the university were cashless and staff will be educated to make it hundred percent cashless system of transactions.  Dr.Ashok Kumar, OSD to Vice-Chancellor elaborated about the recent incentives of the government like use of debit and credit cards at petrol pumps, etc. Some of the bank managers elaborated about Mobile Apps for smaller payments and assured all help to the university to move towards new age transactions which is convenient and  fast.

Mr Satish Kumar Sharma , Registrar and other University statutory officers, scientists, officers from concerned banks and departments were present in the meeting.

 

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Last Updated: December 06, 2016

Media Cell

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No. QSD/MC/82 Dated: 05 December, 2016

 

Scientific Advisory Committee Meeting at KVK, Berthin

 

Vice-Chancellor Prof A.K.Sarial underlines the importance of Self Help Groups in rural economy

 

Palampur 05 December. Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University has appreciated the farming community of district Bilaspur and advised them to adopt organic farming. As chairman, he was addressing the members of Scientific Advisory Committee of Krishi Vigyan Kendra Berthin(Bilaspur) today.

The Vice-Chancellor said that the farmers should supplement their farm income by mushroom cultivation, bee-keeping, fishery, etc. and directed the KVK to establish demonstration units to educate and train farmers on these avocations. He said that animal husbandry is an integral part of hill farming and the farming community should come forward to produce more milk to increase their income. He advised the farmers to grow improved fodder varieties to meet-out the requirement of fodder for their animals.He also discussed the importance of zero budget farming and importance of  Desi cow to propel this type of farming which was very suitable for Himachal Pradesh.

The Vice-Chancellor said that KVK, Berthin at Bilaspur will be strengthened and asked the farmers to be in touch with Krishi Vigyan Kendras and Research Stations to get latest information and guidance about scientific farming.  "Regular interaction with scientists helps in resolving farm related problems", he added. He also asked the staff to help Self Help Groups as such groups need to be supported keeping in view their importance in rural  economy.

Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education cautioned the famers in indiscriminate use of chemicals in the crops and asked them to be judicious while utilizing chemical in any form. He told that the  farmers will be trained in integrated insect- pest management, integrated nutrient management, etc and farm ladies  and young farmers will be provided vocational trainings. He also elaborated about various extension education activities of the university

Dr.Jai Dev Sharma, Programme Coordinator, KVK, Berthin  presented achievements of KVK and proposed  action plan for next year.

Dr.Anand Prashar, Project Director, ATMA; Dr.S.K.Kapil, Deputy Director Animal Husbandry, some other District level officers and  progressive farmer-members  namely Karan Chandel, Balbir Singh, Prem Lal Nadda,Roop Lal and Smt Neelam Verma  also actively participated in the deliberations.

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor also visited experimental farm of KVK and Regional Research Sub-Station and interacted with staff.

 

The Vice-Chancellor chairing the SAC meeting

 

A view of the participants of SAC meeting and the Vice-Chancellor visiting experimental farms

 

 

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Last Updated: November 10, 2016

Media Cell

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No. QSD/MC/79 Dated: 10 November, 2016

 

Veterinary officers trained in the latest techniques in reproduction technology

 

 Palampur 10 November. Prof. Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, has asked the veterinarians to suggest remedial measures to deal with the problem of abandoned cows. He was addressing the veterinary officers and scientists during closing ceremony of  a  training programme in Dr. G C Negi College of Veterinary  & Animal Sciences (COVAS).

Prof. Madhumeet Singh, Professor-cum-Head, Department of Veterinary Gynaecology & Obstetrics, who was  course coordinator also, told that seventeen  veterinary officers from the State Department of Animal Husbandry took part in three days refresher training on "The latest techniques in reproduction and frozen semen technology". The participants were updated on some latest animal reproduction techniques like ultrasonography, laparoscopy and embryo transfer technology and were also updated on management of infertility in animals.

Dr.N.K.Vasisht, Dr.Amit Sharma and Dr.Pravesh Kumar were the other expert faculty who delivered lectures and conducted practical training for participants. Dr R.K.Agnihotri, Dean, COVAS and scientists were also present on the occasion.

 

Prof A.K.Sarial,Vice-Chancellor, distributing participation certificates to the trainees

 

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Last Updated: November 07, 2016

Media Cell

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No. QSD/MC/78 Dated: 07 November, 2016

Vice-Chancellor  Prof. Ashok Kumar Sarial attends Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions  Meeting at Taiwan

Palampur 7 November. Prof. Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University attended Expert Consultation on Best Practices in Agri-Food Innovations and General Assembly Meeting of Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI) held in Taichung City, Taiwan, recently.

 

Prof. Sarial presented a paper on "Organic Farming in Hill Agriculture" and co-chaired a technical session on "Capacity Development in Agri-food Innovations". The Vice-Chancellor offered promotion and sharing of University's technology through coordinated research projects on Protected Vegetable Cultivation, Polyhouses designs for snow bound tribal areas and house hold organic gardening for rural and urban areas with Nepal Agricultural Research Council and World Vegetable Centre, Taiwan.

 

The Vice-Chancellor represented the university in APAARI  for the first time. APAARI is an  unique voluntary, membership-based, self-mandated, apolitical and multi-stakeholder partnership organization in the Asia-Pacific region. Since its establishment in 1990, it has significantly contributed towards addressing regional agricultural research needs. The close links, networks, partnerships and collaboration with stakeholders that APAARI has established over the years, as well as its goodwill, authority and focus on results, make the Association a valuable actor that continues to contribute to the development of agriculture and agri-food research and innovation systems in the region. APAARI's vision is to strengthen research and innovations for sustainable agricultural development in Asia and the Pacific.

 

The visit was sponsored by APAARI.

 

 

Professor Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPKV, Palampur co-chairing the technical  session on "Capacity Development in Agri-food Innovations" during the Expert Consultation on Best Practices in Agri-Food Innovations and General Assembly Meeting of Asia-Pacific  Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI) held in Taichung City, Taiwan from

November 1-3, 2016.

 

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Last Updated: November 04, 2016

Media Cell

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No. QSD/MC/77 Dated: 03 November, 2016

Satish Kumar Sharma, HAS , joins as new Registrar of CSKHPAU

Palampur 3 November. Shri Satish Kumar Sharma, HAS has joined as new Registrar of CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today. Prior to his new assignment, he was holding the position of  Joint Secretary, Staff Selection Commission, Hamirpur. An alumnus of Delhi University, Sh Satish Kumar is M.Sc., M.Phil(Botany), MBA and L.L B. During his career, he has held the posts of  Joint CEO, BBNDA, Nalagarh; S.D.M., Hamirpur; Asst Settlement Officer, Kangra; RTO, Kangra; AC to DC, Kangra; DTDO, Kangra; S.D.M., Bhoranj; Project Officer, RTO, etc.

 

 

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Last Updated: October 21, 2016

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No. QSD/MC/74 Dated: 21 October, 2016

CSKHPAU notifies six percent enhanced DA to its staff & pensioners

Palampur 21 Oct. CSK H.P. Agriculture University has enhanced the rate of Dearness Allowance (DA) from the existing rate of 119 per cent to 125 per cent with effect from 1 January, 2016 in respect of the employees of the University on the analogy of H.P. Government. As per the notification issued today, this  additional installment of  DA  of six percent shall be paid  in cash with the salary  of October payable  in November  and arrears  with effect from  January to September, 2016  shall be credited in the GPF account of the  employees depending upon the availability of funds.

The University has also issued notification for enhanced rate of DA from 119 per cent to 125 per cent to the pensioners and family pensioners w.e.f  January 2016.

Prof. A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, has thanked the Government of Himachal Pradesh for providing funds to the university from time to time.

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Last Updated: October 20, 2016

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No. QSD/MC/73 Dated: 20 October, 2016

ICAR Team appreciates quality of education but regrets shortfall of faculty at CSKHPAU

Palampur 20 October. A monitoring and Review Team of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) completed its three days visit to CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today. The committee assessed the works undertaken through ICAR development assistance, experiential learning unit(ELU)  and Niche Area of Excellence during XII plan and requirements for the next three years.

During the wrap- up meeting with the Vice-Chancellor and Statutory Officers, Dr S.L.Mehta, Chairman of the Committee, appreciated that the development assistance has enabled the university in improving the quality of education which was reflected in increasing number of fellowships bagged by the students of the university. He said that the video conferencing facility should strengthen outreach programmes and skill development of students should be enhanced by quality manuals. "Experiential learning is very important to make the students confident. Develop corporate culture in the colleges for skill development and inculcating entrepreneurial skills in students", advised Dr Mehta.

He expressed his satisfaction that the University has been successful in development of new varieties and technologies which have gone to the farmers and have become popular amongst the farmers of the region and have played role in their economic empowerment. He lamented that the lack of adequate faculty in colleges have started affecting quality of post graduate teaching. The Chairman said that the quality of research publications must be improved to the international level and professors should compete for national and international  research projects and awards. He also emphasized that the quality of post-graduate research needed to be improved. He appreciated that infrastructure has been developed well in experiential learning units (ELU) but these units should implement ICAR recommendations to run these as per corporate culture where students work for five months in a year and earn minimum Rs  9000 per month. He also advised that powers should be delegated in such matters to draw more support from the ICAR. He said that it was heartening that the enrollment of girl students have increased. He appreciated ELU on critical care which has ensured better health care facilities in veterinary clinic. He directed that the milk processing unit should be made functional within three months and dairy unit should be improved. Dr Mehta said that the university was provided support for Niche Area of Excellence on organic farming to the tune of Rs. 5.53 crore and it has been able to establish one of the best facilities on Organic Farming.

Prof Ashok  Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor said that  during  12th five year plan period, ICAR has  provided a support of about Rs. 53 crore and thanked the  Chairman and committee members for recommending Experience Learning unit for modernization of tea processing unit for value addition and Honey Bee Production and Value Addition. He said that the recommendation for ICAR grant to the University for e-governance especially for complete automation including finance, administration and academic processes will enhance the efficiency. He also thanked for recommendation of a new hostel for veterinary intern students and  assured that the new initiatives such as Best Teacher Award, Adjunct Professor and Guest Faculty will be implemented on priority. The Vice-Chancellor ensured the team  that all suggestions would be implemented and the university would work hard to increase the income of farming community of Himachal Pradesh. Dr S.K.Chauhan, Nodal Officer, presented Impact assessment Report of the university. Others members of the committee Dr.P.S.Pandey, Dr. A.S Rajan and Sh.D.D.Verma also interacted and gave suggestions. All the statutory officers took part in the meeting. During the last three days, the team took stock of the work done in colleges, directorates and departments of the university.

 

Dr S.L.Mehta, Chairman, Prof A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor and other members taking part in the meeting.

 

 

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Last Updated: October 07, 2016

Media Cell

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No. QSD/MC/71 Dated: 07 October, 2016

 

Anti Ragging Committee Meeting at CSKHPAU

 

Prof A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor exhorts students to maintain glorious tradition of ragging free CSKHPAU campus

 

Palampur 7 October.  A University level anti-ragging committee meeting was held at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

Prof A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor while chairing the meeting,  informed that the university has a glorious tradition of being a ragging free campus for the last eight years and exhorted all concerned to maintain this tradition with vigil and diligence. He informed the members that all required measures have been taken to prevent ragging in the University. The Vice-Chancellor told that as per the legal and statutory requirements, monitoring cell on ragging has been made functional and a committee for promotion and monitoring of inter-action has been constituted in addition to anti-ragging squad and anti-ragging women squad at the University level. Such committees have also been formed at college and hostel level. Requisite affidavits concerning ragging have got filled from the students and undertakings have also been taken from all employees.

While expressing his satisfaction of not getting any adverse feedback about the incidents of ragging, he advised the students to avail all helpline numbers in case of any need. Prof Sarial  also advised the senior students to guide the new students about semester system and other academic matters. He got independent feedback from the new students.

Shri Manoj Kumar, Registrar, while welcoming all the members informed about the laws concerning ragging and told that anti-ragging provisions have been printed in the prospectus and included in academic regulations.

Almost all three dozen members, including new and senior students, wardens and police department representatives actively participated in the proceedings and gave feedback.

Deans of the constituent colleges, Students Welfare Officer, Librarian, Joint Director (Information & Public Relations), President and Secretary, Non-teaching employees union and some parents of newly admitted students attended the meeting.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Media Cell

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No. QSD/MC/70 Dated: 05 October, 2016

Rice Day at RWRC,Malan

 Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, appreciates the role of women in farm development

Palampur 5 October. Rice day was celebrated at Rice & Wheat Research Centre (RWRC), Malan, 18 KMs from here today. Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, said that it was due to the progressive farmers that the country was exporting Basmati worth Rupees thirty thousand crore annually. He asked the farmers to grow only approved rice and other crop varieties to avoid any loss at later stages. He also advised the farming community to remain on touch with the university research stations and Krishi Vigyan Kendras for latest farm information and to resolve their crop related problems.

The Vice-Chancellor appreciated the pivotal role of farm women in agriculture and livestock production. He asked the young farmers to come forward in accelerating the pace of farm development in the state and help in strengthening the economy of their families.

Dr.S.S.Kanwar, Director of Research, elaborated about significant rice research accomplishments and asked the farmers to be careful in selecting rice varieties. He also advocated growing red rice as it was full of several minerals and nutrients.

Dr Ripon Sood, Project Director, ATMA, said that a large number of programmes have been launched for the benefit of farmers and they should take advantage of these initiatives. Dr Ashwani Basandrai, Scientist Incharge, RWRC, informed about various activities of his centre.Drs Ajai Srivastva and Sandeep Manuja also addressed the farmers. Heads of departments answered to various crop and animal husbandry related questions of farmers.

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor visited experimental farm and evinced interest in the exhibition. He also released two booklets by the scientists of the centre. He also honoured some progressive farmers.

Dr Dinesh Badiyala, Dean, College of Agriculture, heads and scientists from the university and officers from the state department of agriculture were present in the rice day programme.

 

A view of dais and audience 

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Last Updated: October 04, 2016

 

Significant University Activities for the month of  September 2016

Key Highlights

 

Research

    i)  Release proposal of Barley variety HBL 713 (Him Palam Jau 1) for cultivation in Low & Mid hills of H.P. under timely sown rainfed  condition.

    ii) Release proposal of Linseed variety KL-241 (Him Palam Alsi-1), a seed type variety suitable for utera system of cultivation under assured moisture conditions of all traditional linseed growing areas in Mid-hills of H.P.

    iii) Change in the existing recommendation on Phosphorus and Potassium applications in grain barley crop for inclusion in the package of practices for rabi crops

    iv) Additional recommendation of new ready mix herbicides Clodinafop Propargyl + Metsulfuron Methyl for weed management in wheat crop for inclusion in the package of practices for rabi crops.

 

Extension Education

 

Miscellaneous

Finance

 

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Last Updated: October 04, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/69 Dated: 04 October, 2016

 

Veterinary scientists from CSKHPAU  organize  infertility camps in remote villages of Chamba

 

Palampur 4 October. A team of veterinary scientists from CSK  Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University organized  eleven infertility camps in remote villages of distinct Chamba recently. The camps were organized under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna (RKVY) project in collaboration with H.P state Animal Husbandry department at  Bharmour, Holi (Bharmour Sub-division), Masroond, Koti, Kiyani (Chamba Sub-division), Kihar (Salooni Sub-division), Sural, Takwas, Karyas, Saach and Kumar (Pangi Sub-division) villages of District Chamba in the last one week.

Principal Investigator of the project Prof. Madhumeet Singh, Team leader, told that around 150 cows, yaks and their crosses suffering from infertility problems were examined and treated in these camps. The scientists collected uterine discharge samples from infertile cows to study the infections causing reproductive diseases. Blood samples were also collected from these animals to study minerals, biochemical and hormonal profile for detailed diagnosis of diseases and also to study the causes of abortions in cows of these areas. Free medicines were distributed to the farmers.

Prof. Madhumeet Singh also told that total 146 infertility treatment camps have been organized in all parts of Himachal Pradesh under this project and will continue in next year also as similar project worth Rs. 25.00 lakh has been sanctioned to the department under RKVY. Other team members included Dr. Pravesh  Kumar, Mr. Manoj Negi, Mr. Vijay Rana and Mr. Rakesh Kumar from Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Dr. G.C. Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences.

Prof. Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, has appreciated the veterinary scientists for serving the farmers by organizing infertility camps in remote and less accessible areas.

 

 

 

Infertility camps in progress

 

 

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Last Updated: September 30, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/68 Dated: 30 September, 2016

 

Dr J.P.Saini  from CSKHPAU attends International Conference at Bangladesh

 

Palampur 30 September. Dr. J.P. Saini, Professor and  Head, Deptt. of Organic Agriculture, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University attended  first  International Conference on Botanical Pesticides & Environmental sustainability at  University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh, during last week of September.

As a key note speaker in plenary session, Dr. Saini,  delivered a lecture on "Role of botanical pesticides in Organic Agriculture in North-Western Himalayas". He also presented and highlighted the research work being done at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University on organic farming which was highly appreciated by all the delegates. He also Co-chaired one Technical session. Around    130 delegates from all over the world participated in the conference.

 

 

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Last Updated: September 29, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/66 Dated: 29 September, 2016

CSKHPAU and Nestle India sign MOU to provide better nutrition to adolescent girls

Palampur 29 September. CSK H.P. Agriculture University’s Department of Food Science, Nutrition & Technology and Nestle India Pv.t Ltd. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) worth Rs. 4.00 lac, here today.

 

Under the MoU, one thousand students, mainly adolescent girls will be covered to improve their nutritional and health status in schools of Una district. Dr.S.R.Malhotra, Dean, College of Home Science and Principal Investigator, informed that experts from her college will pre-test the knowledge of students and the Nestle India will provide financial support under Nestle Healthy Kids programme to improve health of selected students. The college has also done similar project since 2013 covering three thousand students.

 

On behalf of the University, Director of Research Dr S. S. Kanwar signed the MoU and Nestle India Pvt Ltd was represented by Manager Corporate Affairs Shri Sanjay Singh Rawat.

 

 Signing of MoU between CSKHPAU and Nestle India Pvt Ltd

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Last Updated: September 26, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/66 Dated: 26 September, 2016

CSKHPAU and JICA sign  service agreement  to evaluate impact of Crop Diversification

Palampur 26 September. CSK H.P. Agriculture University's Department of Agricultural Economics, Extension Education & Rural Sociology and Project Director, Himachal Pradesh Crop Diversification Promotion Project (HPCDP), Japan International Cooperation Agency -Overseas Development Assistance (JICA-ODA)  signed a service agreement worth Rs. 8.57 lakh.

Under the agreement, the university will evaluate the impact of this ambitious project running in five districts namely  Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi, and Una of the state. The agreement envisages investigating the impact of the project in enhancing the incomes of the farmers in these districts through agricultural diversification and creation of related infrastructure.

The  agreement was signed in the presence of Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor. On behalf of the University, Director of Research Dr S. S. Kanwar and Head of the Department Dr S K Chauhan, who is also the coordinator of the project, signed the  agreement  and   HPCDP was represented by Finance Officer Mr D S Chaudhary.

The study is to be accomplished within one month and for this a team of the scientists comprising Drs J S Guleria, Virender Kumar, M S Pathania and Harbans Lal has been constituted.

 

Signing of MOU between CSKHPAU and JICA in the presence of  Prof. Ashok Sarial, Vice-Chancellor

 

 

Last Updated: September 24, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/65 Dated: 24 September, 2016

Role of improved technology vital for good crop production: Prof A.K. Sarial, Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 24 September. Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, has advocated increasing the crop yields to bring these at par with national average. He was addressing officers from the State Department of Agriculture, University scientists and progressive farmers during the inaugural ceremony of State level Agriculture Officers' Workshop on Rabi  crops at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor said that yields of cereal, pulses, oilseeds and vegetables were less in the state as compared to national level averages so farm officers and scientists need to devise strategies to increase production and make efforts so that university developed and recommended crop varieties become popular among the farming community of Himachal Pradesh. He also underlined the importance of water conservation, quality seed, poly house cultivation and emphasized the need to increase area under organic farming and initiate steps for zero budget farming. He said that it was a challenge to increase area and production of oilseeds and pulses and the issue could be addressed by improved technology .Prof Sarial also advocated the importance of indigenous cattle and asked the officers to help farmers form self-help groups.

Dr.Som Raj Kalia, Director, Deptt of Agriculture, H.P. informed about the arrangements made for farm inputs for ensuing Rabi season. He told that 7650 metric tone seed of different Rabi crops has been arranged and 28000 metric tone fertilizers will be made available to the farmers. He also elaborated about Rs. 25 crore 'Mukhyamantri Khet Sarankshan Yojna' (Chief Minister Crop Protection Scheme), 'Mukhyamantri Jeevan Suraksha Yojna' and asked the farmers to make use of this and other schemes to enhance crop production.

Dr.S.S.Kanwar, Director of Research, elaborated about significant research accomplishments and priorities of the University. He informed about the new recommendations like  release proposal of  barley variety HBL 713  (Him Palam Jau 1) for cultivation in Low & Mid hills of H.P. and release proposal of  Linseed variety KL-241(Him Palam Alsi-1) for cultivation in Mid hills of H.P. He informed that 40600  Kg breeder seed and  34300  Kg of  foundation seed of cereals, pulses, oilseeds, vegetables and fodder crops was produced during last  Rabi season. 136 research project worth Rs. 50 crore  were in operation in the university.

Dr.Pawan Kumar Mehta Director of Extension Education informed that his directorate and Krishi Vigyan Kendras(KVKs) were regularly sending agricultural messages  to around 3.47 lac farmers. The University has organized 507 vocational training benefiting around 19000 farmers. To encourage farm mechanization, a custom hiring centre has been established from where small and marginal farmers can hire farm machinery.

 Dr.Dinesh Badiyala, Dean, College of Agriculture, Drs.Desh Raj Chaudhry and Pawan Sharma also expressed their  views. The Vice-Chancellor also released a 'Practical Manual on Grafting Techniques in Vegetables' authored by Dr. Pardeep Kumar, Dr. Parveen Sharma ,Ms. Binny Vats and  Mr Viplove Negi.

University statutory officers, Eighteen Progressive farmers  from different parts of Himachal Pradesh also took active part in the discussions and gave suggestions.

Dignitaries on the dais and audience

Chief Guest releasing a book

Dr P.K.Mehta honoring Vice-Chancellor


Prof A.K.Sarial honoring Director of Agriculture  Dr S.R.Kalia

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Last Updated: September 24, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/64 Dated: 23 September, 2016

 

CSK H.P. Agriculture University and Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam(SJVN) Foundation sign MOU to train five hundred farmers

Palampur 23 September. CSK H.P. Agriculture University and Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam(SJVN) Foundation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding(MOU) today to train five hundred farmers of Himachal Pradesh. During MOU signing ceremony,   Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor said that skill development programmes through trainings and demonstrations to the young aspiring farmers and entrepreneurs of Himahcal Pradesh will help them in various income generating professional activities. He said this will enable farmers to understand integrated agriculture and some of them may even adopt start up programmes in agri- entrepnurship.He appreciated and asked SJVN to continue their endeavors for the upliftment  of farmers and livestock keepers under CSR and the university  will extend all help.

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

        Mr.D.P.Kaushal, Additional General Manager and Secretary SJVN Foundation, told that MOU has been signed under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative of SJVN Ltd. Each trainee will be given a stipend of Rs 1400  and the programme will be completed in this very financial year. He thanked the University.

        In addition to Mr O.P.Gupta, Head of Project  Dhaulasidh Hydroelectric Project and Mr Dheeraj Gupta, Executive, SJVN ;  Drs Suresh Gautam, Desh Raj Chaudhry, Pawan Sharma, Anand Singh, A.K.Chaube, Dr Hirday Paul Singh, Jt.Director(Information & Public Relations) and Heads of Department from the College of Agriculture were present during signing of MOU.

 

 

 

 

Signing of MOU between the University & SJVN in the presence of Vice-Chancellor Prof A.K.Sarial

 

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Last Updated: September 24, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/63 Dated: 21 September, 2016

CSKHPAU to fill up vacant positions of scientists in tribal areas of the State: Prof A.K.Sarial

 Palampur 21 September. Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University has said that vacant positions of scientists and technical staff at University research stations and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVK) situated in tribal areas of the  State will be filled up with the consent of State government to strengthen the scientific activities in these areas. As chairman, he was addressing the members of Scientific Advisory Committee of Krishi Vigyan Kendra Kukumseri in Lahaul & Spiti on Monday.

The Vice-Chancellor said that the farmers of this district were very hard working as despite short duration of cropping season and adverse weather conditions they were growing and providing off-season vegetables to the plains. Some of the innovative farmers have started growing exotic vegetables exclusively for the top notch hotels in Delhi and other areas. He said that with the sincere efforts of his university, the farmers have started taking two crops in short duration of cropping season. Prof Sarial said that since the farmers were shifting from growing peas and other vegetables to cauliflower and exotic vegetables exclusively so there was need to conduct research on the varieties of lettuce, broccoli, red cabbage and such other exotic vegetables with specific focus on agronomical, disease management and integrated nutrient management aspects, etc. 

He also underlined the importance of growing vegetable seedlings in poly-tunnels so as to make available the seedlings early in the crop season in April. The Vice-Chancellor told that Lahaul & Spiti topped the State in term of consumption of  minimum chemical nutrients corresponding to the total geographical area. He directed the scientists to gear up research on finding organic substitutes to chemical fertilizers, insecticides and pesticides to enhance value of produce of all crops and fruits grown in the district. He asked the farmers to take full advantage of university facilities for their crop and animal husbandry related issues.

Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education told that the university was conducting special trainings for the farmers of tribal areas and the focus was on farm ladies and young farmers. The farmers will be trained in integrated insect- pest management, integrated nutrient management, etc and farm ladies  and young farmers will be provided vocational trainings on mushroom cultivation, knitting and embroidery, scientific pruning of apple trees, etc  as they have adequate time in winters. He also elaborated about various extension education activities of the university

Dr.S.S.Kanwar, Director of Research, said that the university will work for the development of superior high yielding varieties of crops and vegetable crops and will standardize production technology. He said that researchable issues of this district will get priority.

The university was working on the quality seed production of French bean, rajmash, potato ,etc which will be further strengthened to increase crop productivity .

Dr.Rajesh Uppal, Programme Coordinator, KVK, Kukumseri presented achievements of KVK and proposed  action plan for next year.

District level officers from the L&S and some progressive farmer-members also actively participated in the deliberations.

Dr.Hirday Paul Singh, Jt. Director (Information & Public Relations) was also present on the occasion.The Vice-Chancellor also distributed improved farm tools, developed by RRS, Kukumseri  to some progressive farmers of the area.

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor also visited experimental farm of KVK and Regional Research Station and interacted with staff. Dr.B.S.Mankotia, Associate Director, RRS conducted the visit of Vice-Chancellor. On way to Kukumseri, the Vice-Chancellor also held a joint meeting with scientists of KVK and RRS, Bajaura on 17 September and sought details about the on-going activities. He also visited experimental farms on 18 September where Dr R.S.Jamwal, Associate Director, RRS and Dr.S.K.Thakur, Programme Coordinator, KVK conducted the visit of Vice-Chancellor and detailed about the experiments, etc. Dr.S.S.Kanwar, Director of Research  and Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education were also present during meeting and the field visit.

 

Vice-Chancellor visiting RSS farm

 

Vice-Chancellor getting a traditional welcome from farmers

 

 

 

Vice-Chancellor distributing improved farm tools to the farmers

 

Vice-Chancellor chairing the SAC meeting

 

 

Dr. Ashok Sarial visiting experimental farm at RRS, Bajaura

 

 

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Last Updated: September 08,  2016

Significant University Activities for the month of  August 2016

MEDIA CELL

 

Key Highlights

 

Research

 

 Extension Education

 

Miscellaneous

 

Finance

 

 

 

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Last Updated: September 06, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/61 Dated: 06 September, 2016

 

Maiden Press Conference of New Vice-Chancellor

 

Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial assures to bring excellence in various university programees to serve the farmers effectively

 

Palampur 6 September. "Providing an encouraging environment where all staff members work in cohesion to their optimum capacity for the benefit of farming community of Himachal Pradesh will be my priority", stated Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University in his maiden press conference, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor, who joined the University on 11 August, said that serving the farming community to raise their socio-economic status by bringing excellence in the given mandate of teaching, research and extension education will form part of his all endeavors. Elaborating, he told that concerted efforts will be made for dissemination of entrepreneurial technologies like protected cultivation, mushroom cultivation, apiculture, floriculture, dairy, value addition, etc in an integrated mode in the villages to achieve success in "Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav" programme of the  government   all over the State.  He also advocated encouraging the villagers for forming self-help groups and cooperatives to enhance their participation in economic activities.

Prof Sarial said that as the fertilizer and chemical use in the state was quite low as compared to plains so Himachal Pradesh was by default an organic State and the university will make serious efforts to encourage organic farming, zero budget farming, preservation of indigenous crop varieties, and establishment of hill cattle development centre. "Such research projects will be brought which are need based, location specific and problem oriented to increase crop yields and enhance animal production", he added. He said that there was need to enhance productivity and production of hill crops matching with all India average under irrigated and rainfed production systems. There was need of value addition or  Biofortification of  rainfed crops. The university will also work on diversification for high value cash crops and climate smart agriculture

 At present not all faculty members have adhoc projects and he will ensure that they have research projects by strengthening linkages through Memorandum of Understating with the National and International Institutes for   collaborative research, exchange of faculty and students.

The Vice-Chancellor said that to promote competitive excellence, teaching will  be complemented with extra training  and coaching  for all India competitions. He said that he will strengthen Student-Advisory system and provide individual care of talents to groom the students for competition at National & International level for fellowship and placement progammes. There was need to provide wide academic exposure by encouraging the under-graduate students to pursue master's degree in other universities through Junior Research Fellowship and  Ph. D through Senior Research Fellowship.  

Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial announced that he will make a serious effort to minimize the multiplicity of litigation and will do in-house review of   court cases for mutual settlement to save time and money of the University and its employees. He also announced to shed the practice of having personal security officer for Vice-Chancellor from the State police department.                             

He said that all out efforts will be made to enhance the domestic income by strengthening revolving fund schemes and creation of new revolving funds. He told that after his joining the University has received an additionality of around Rs. 20 crore from the State government, Indian Council of Agricultural Research and sanctioning of research projects. Eighteen reporters from various newspapers and news channels asked various questions from the Vice-Chancellor about his personal achievements in teaching, research and about the University.

Dr Hirday Paul Singh, Jt.Director (Information & Public Relations) welcomed and introduced local media persons to the Vice-Chancellor and Dr Ashok Kumar, OSD to VC thanked the reporters.

Yesterday, the Vice-Chancellor also addressed the University staff and sought their cooperation in bringing excellence in various programmes of the University. Shri Manoj Kumar, Registrar, welcomed the Vice-Chancellor and Dr.Ashok Kumar, OSD to VC, thanked the Vice-Chancellor after the address of Vice-Chancellor.

 

Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, holding his first Press Conference

 

 

 

 Local Media persons with Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial,Vice-Chancellor

 

 

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Last Updated: September 05, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/60 Dated: 03 September, 2016

 

College of Agriculture wins Running Trophy in Inter-college sports competitions at CSKHPAU

 

Palampur 3 September. College of Agriculture was declared overall champion and Dr GC Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences remained runners-up in Inter-college sports competitions which concluded   at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

Professor Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, while awarding  running trophies to the winners and runners-up colleges congratulated all the players for showing sportsmen spirit during the six days sports programme. He said that sports were an essential part of academic programme which allow students to show their worth in different games. Sports were also important for holistic development of personality and his university has created a massive infrastructure in the sports complex for the benefit of students.

Dr.Kamlesh Singh, Students' Welfare Officer, informed that in six days programme, thirty-three matches were played comprising more than four hundred thirty students from four constituent colleges. Twelve boys and twelve girls teams took part in Basket- ball, Badminton, Volleyball, Table tennis, Power-lifting and chess matches.

 

Statutory officers, teachers and students were present in a large number during prize distribution function.

 

 

 

 

 

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Last Updated: August 31, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/59 Dated: 31 August 2016

 

ICAR gives top rating to CSKHPAU Veterinary Microbiology Centre

 

Palampur 31 August. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) review committee has rated the Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Dr. GC Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, CSK H.P. Agriculture University as "very good" for its consistent brilliant research work and for successfully meeting the objectives of All India Network Programme on Haemorrhagic Septicaemia, a very important infectious and contagious disease of livestock. This department has been given the task to elucidate the molecular mechanisms operative during host-pathogen interaction.

A team of scientists led by Prof. Mandeep Sharma, Principal Investigator of the Network Programme including Drs  Subhash Verma, Rajesh Chahota and Prasenjit Dhar has achieved many objectives like a status paper on Pasteurellosis in animals. More than 8500 samples were processed for Pasteurella multocida isolation and close to 208 isolates were recovered. Repository of these isolates is now with the department and also with Indian Veterinary Research Institute and some rare isolates have been shared with the national repository of Veterinary Type Cultural Centre,Hissar.

Antibiotic profiles for all isolates and molecular profiles and virulence profiles were created on selected isolates. Many virulent genes were sequenced and deposited to the NCBI database. Vaccines developed by the partners under the project were validated by studying immune responses. Structural functional analyses of ompA were studied. Indigenous diagnostic kit (iELISA, LAMP, latex agglutination assay) were developed and tested. Several high impact publications including review paper have been published.

 

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Last Updated: August 29, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/57 Dated: 29 August 2016

 

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ashok Kumar Sarial inaugurates inter-college sports at CSKHPAU

 

Palampur 29 August. Inter-college sports competitions began   at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

Professor Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, while inaugurating the sports competitions, told that it was an important annual activity which provided platform to the students to exhibit their talent and stamina. He said that sports play an important role in the development of students' personality, besides cultivating qualities of leadership, discipline, mutual understanding and brotherhood.

The Vice-Chancellor also remembers legendary hockey wizard Major Dhyan Chand on his birth anniversary and asked the students to follow his footprints to excel in life.

Dr.Kamlesh Singh, Students' Welfare Officer, informed that in six days events , fifty six teams comprising more than four hundred students from four constituent colleges will be taking part in six sports competitions  like Basket ball, Badminton, Volleyball, Table tennis, Power-lifting and chess.

Statutory officers, teachers and students were present in a large number during inaugural ceremony of the Inter-college sports competitions.

 

Vice-Chancellor with basket ball team of College of Agriculture and DrGCN COVAS

 

The Hon'ble Vice-Chancellor unfurling the University flag

 

The Hon'ble Vice-Chancellor taking salute from the teams

 

The Hon'ble Vice-Chancellor addressing the teams

 

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Last Updated: August 27, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/56 Dated: 27 August 2016

 

Ten class 'D' employees appointed as Clerks in CSKHPAU

 

Palampur 26 August. Ten class 'D' employees have been appointed as clerks at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University.  Professor Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor allowed their appointment under limited direct recruitment quota in the pay band of Rs.5910-20200 plus grade pay of Rs.1900 with initial pay of Rs.7810 plus allowances. Those appointed include Messers Kamaljeet, Mohinder Singh, Saran Dass,Tilak Raj,Manohar Lal,Karam Chand, Rangi Kumar ,Satish Kumar, Om Parkash and Smt. Anju Bala. Nine of them have been posted in different departments in the university and one clerk has been posted at research station, Kumumseri in Lahaul & Spiti.

 

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Last Updated: August 27, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/55 Dated: 26 August 2016

 

Sensitization program on ragging at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University

 

Palampur 26 August. A sensitization progrmme on ragging was organized  for the students  at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

Professor Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor while addressing the newly admitted and other regular students assured that all required steps have been taken by the University to stop the menace of ragging as per the directions of Supreme Court of India and Govt of H.P. Anti Ragging act.  The Vice-Chancellor said that his university has the glorious tradition of ragging free campus for the last over eight years and he will ensure that this convention continuous in this academic session and in future as well. While welcoming the new students, he asked them to work hard and excel in life.  Professor Ashok Kumar Sarial elaborated about all aspects of Anti-ragging act and asked the students to be fully aware about it and the serious consequences if anybody was found violating the provision of this act. He also administered anti-ragging pledge to the students and officers present on the occasion.

Dr.Kamlesh Singh, Students' Welfare Officer-cum Dean College of Basic Sciences, elaborated about the academic system in the university and asked the students to take help of their advisors. He underlined the importance of self discipline and proper planning for bright future.

Mr.Manoj Kumar, Registrar; DrR.K.Agnihotri Dean Post Graduate Studies-cum-Dean Dr. G C Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences; Dr.Dinesh Badiyala, Dean College of Agriculture; Dr.Rekha Malhotra, Dean College of Home Science and other statutory officers were also present. Dr.Ashok Kumar Sharma, OSD to Vice-Chancellor presented a vote of thanks.

 

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Last Updated: August 24, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/54 Dated: 24 August 2016

Five percent Interim Relief to the HPAU employees and pensioners

Palampur 24 August.  CSK  Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University has granted Interim Relief  at the rate of five percent of the basic pay to its regular employees with effect from 1 August on the analogy of H.P. Government. The new Vice-Chancellor Prof A.K.Sarial has also granted interim relief at the rate of five percent of basic pension and family pension to all pensioners and family pensioners with effect from 1 August on the analogy of H.P. Government.    

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Last Updated: August 24, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/53 Dated: 24 August 2016

Prof. Ashok  Kumar Sarial ,Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU,  asks NSS volunteers to become brand ambassadors of Digital India programmes

 

Palampur 24 August.  Prof. Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor,CSK H.P. Agriculture University has asked the students to become brand ambassadors of digital India. He was addressing NSS volunteers, officers and scientists after inaugurating ‘Digital India Workshop’ for NSS volunteers, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor told that National e-Governance Division of the Govt. of India was doing  a commendable work by connecting the Indian youth with digital India programmes and preparing them to spread the vision of Digital India initiatives among academia and other communities. He said that e-governance programmes will enable faster transformation of rural India and will also benefit farming community with the spread of a large number of programmes with  the help of high speed internet. In addition to linking around 2.5 lac villages there was plan to link 550 farmer markets with e-governance programmes. Prof. Sarial expressed the hope that the NSS volunteers will help the stakeholders to adopt e-governance programmes. He cautioned the students not to be distracted with an ocean of information on internet and utilize it for academic pursuits only. He also lauded the efforts of Students’ Welfare Organization for organizing the workshop to engage, educate and empower the participants about Digital India programmes.

Dr.Kamlesh Singh, Students Welfare Officer, informed that around 450 NSS volunteers of the four constituent colleges of the university took part in the workshop. He said that  the  volunteers also participated in various competitions like skits, poster making, idea generation and quiz competitions. The workshop was sponsored by the Union Ministry of  Electronics & Information Technology in association with National Service Scheme.

Mr Rajiv Aggarwal, Director, National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology and Mr.Russi Kansara, Member of e-Governance Division also elaborated about the Digital India progammes meant for transforming India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.

NSS programme officers of the university Drs. Sapna Gautam, V.K.Sharma, Virender Pathak and Vaibhav Kalia also interacted with participants.

Statutory Officers, OSD to Vice-Chancellor, Joint Director (Information & PR) and some officers from the State e-governance team  were also present in the inaugural ceremony of the workshop.

 

 

Pic captions: SWO receiving Vice-Chancellor, The Vice-Chancellor addressing the participants, a view of the dais and participants

 

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Last Updated: August 23, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/52 Dated: 23 August 2016

Prof. Ashok  Kumar Sarial ,Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU asks students to create awareness to eradicate Parthenium weed

Palampur 23 August.  Prof. Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor,CSK H.P. Agriculture University has called for concerted efforts to control parthenium, an obnoxious weed which was wide spread in cropped and non-cropped areas of the State. The Vice-Chancellor was addressing students at Govt.  Senior Secondary School at village Tatehal(Panchrukhi), 10 KMs from here. He said that weeds like parthenium reduce crop yields but if controlled properly then such weeds can be put to use by making its organic manure. Such manure can be used in Kitchen garden to grow vegetables and also in the gardens of school premises. He asked the students to make their parents and villagers aware about the harmful effects of weeds and help them by uprooting it.The Vice-Chancellor also suggested to the teachers that weeds eradication campaigns can be initiated in the schools to make the surroundings beautiful and eradicate harmful weeds. He appreciated the efforts of scientists for creating awareness about such obnoxious weeds and asked the farmers to collectively eradicate weeds from their fields and surroundings. Prof Sarial also distributed prizes to the winners of various competitions organized to mark the occasion.

Dr.Dinesh Badiyala, Dean, College of Agriculture who is also Principal Investigator of All India Coordinated Research Project on Weed Management, elaborated about the harmful effects and control measures of parthenium. He told that this weed causes various human and animal skin and respiratory diseases like dermatitis, bronchitis, etc. Drs.Neelam Sharma,S.S.Rana and Rajender Kumar also addressed the farmers and students.

A documentary on parthenium eradication was also screened on the occasion. During a week long awareness programme on this weed, some awareness programmes were organized at Parour,Punnar,Rajpur  and university campus  where NSS and NCC volunteers took out a rally to make people aware about this dreadful weed.

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Last Updated: August 16, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/50 Dated: 16 August 2016

 

Independence Day celebrations at CSKHPAU

Independence Day was celebrated with enthusiasm and gaiety at CSK H.P. Agriculture University. Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor unfurled the National flag and took salute from the N.C.C. cadets who presented an impressive parade. Sunny weather added glitter to the ceremony and large number students, staff with family members, including little children attended the ceremony. The Vice-Chancellor paid his glowing tributes to the freedom fighters and asked the staff to serve the farming community with dedication.He appreciated the NCC cadets for their performance in 'C' and 'B' certificate examination and also for their impressive parade. Statutory officers, heads, scientists and non teaching staff also joined the celebrations.

 

 

 

 

 

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Last Updated: August 12, 2016

 

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/49 Dated: 12 August 2016

 

Prof. Ashok  Kumar Sarial  joins as Twelfth Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University

Palampur 12 August. Prof. Ashok Kumar Sarial, a renowned farm academician has joined as twelfth regular Vice-Chancellor of CSK H.P. Agriculture University (CSKHPKV).

Having more than three decades rich and varied experience in teaching and research, Prof. Sarial has been working as Professor of Genetics and Plant Breeding at CCS Haryana Agricultural University (HAU), Hisar. He is an alumnus of CSKHPKV and did his B.Sc. (Agriculture) in 1980 and M.Sc. (Plant Breeding) in Jan, 1983. Prof. Sarial obtained Ph.D. degree in Genetics from the premier Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi in 1995. Being topper of the institute, he was awarded IARI Gold Medal.

He started his career as Assistant Seed Officer in 1983 and served at HAU as Assistant Professor and Associate Professor from 1986 to 1997, Fellow of Rock- feller Foundation at Texas University, USA from 1997 to 1999, Officer-in-charge, Regional Research Station, National Rice Research Institute, Cuttack in the year 2001. Prof. Sarial also worked as Expatriate Fellow in World Bank/ UNDP sponsored programme of Ministry of Education, FDR Ethiopia from 2004-2006. He became Professor in 2008 at HAU Hisar at its College of Agriculture, Kaul in Kaithal district.

Prof. Ashok Kumar Sarial is known for his teaching excellence and research innovations. He has seven first time research reports to his credit like World’s longest grain Basmati variety Pusa 1121 developed and released in 2003, World’s first aromatic hybrid Basmati Pusa RH 10  parental lines. His research work earned to his alma mater  IARI, two IPRs including one for Pusa Basmati 1121 which occupies more than 70 per cent area of total Basmati acreage in the country and contributes annually approximate Rs. 29300 crore forex earning leading India to attain number one position in the world leaving behind USA, Vietnam, Thailand and Pakistan.

Prof. Sarial has been a dedicated teacher and feels proud that he served in a farm college located in the remote rural area of Haryana. He trained a large number of students and motivated them to excel in studies and their professional career. He guided over a dozen students in M.Sc. and Ph.D. in the areas of molecular genetics analysis of heat tolerance in wheat and genetics, breeding of aromatic Basmati rices besides, sugarcane, pulses, forages and vegetable crops. A number of his student advisees bagged national and international fellowships for higher study within India and abroad.

He is a decorated scientist with various awards, honours and recognition like ICAR Jawahar Lal Nehru Award for excellent academic achievements and ICAR recognition award for his outstanding research contribution in Basmati rice. He is member of several professional societies like Fellow of Indian Society of Genetics and Plant Breeding and had wide exposure. He visited foreign countries like USA, Africa and Thailand in professional concern  spread over four years.

Coming from a humble background Prof. Ashok Kumar Sarial was born on 8 April, 1959 and obtained his school education from the schools near his native place village Bharwana in Palampur tehsil in District Kangra. He is very well conversant with the challenges of agriculture in Himachal Pradesh. He is soft spoken personality and is known for his commitment, discipline, hard work, simplicity, compassion for the poor and downtrodden. The teaching and non-teaching staff has whole heartedly welcomed the appointment of Prof. Ashok Kumar Sarial as Vice-Chancellor and has promised to extend all cooperation for taking forward the mandate of the University to realise the mission with renewed enthusiasm. Some staff unions have also thanked the Chancellor and State Government for this appointment.

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Last Updated: August 11, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/47 Dated: 11 August 2016

Guramritpal & Ashish win Medals in H.P.Power-lifting championship

Palampur 10 August. Mr.Guramritpal Singh Bhandal, a final year student of B.V.Sc.& A.H, Dr. G C N College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences,   has won two gold medals in H.P.Power lifting & Bench Press Championship in the 120 Kg category in the recently concluded competition by H.P.Power lifting association. Dr.Ashish Gupta, M.V.Sc. student has won Silver Medal in the same competition under 93 Kg category. Mr.Gurampritpal Singh will participate in the National championship to be held from 7-11 September at Jamshedpur. He is a silver medalist of the last championship held in January, 2015.

Dr.Kamlesh Singh, Students' Welfare Officer, has congratulated both champions.

 

Mr.Guramritpal Singh Bhandal & Dr.Ashish Gupta with SWO Dr.Kamlesh Singh

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Last Updated: August 6, 2016

Significant University Activities for the month of  July  2016

MEDIA CELL

Key Highlights

·         Admisison and registration process for various under-graduate and post-graduate programmes in the constituent colleges was completed for the academic year 2016-17.

·         Oath taking ceremony of passing out 26th batch veterinary graduate was organised on 9 July.Dr H. Rehman, Depty Director  General (Animal Sc.), ICAR  was chief guest on the occasion.

·         Eleven students of final year B.V.Sc & A.H Progmmae were selected for Junior Research Fellowship conducted by ICAR to persue their PG programme in different institutes of India.  Ms Preeti Bhatia, Ms Sakshi Chouhan and Ms Sonali Mishra got 2nd , 3rd and 4th all India rank, respectively.

 

Research

·         Two research project proposals  worth Rs. 99.70 lac have been submitted to funding agencies for consideration and funding.

Extension Education

 

·         The Directorate of Extension Education organized 46 training programmes on various aspects of  farming  with the participation of  1027  farmers.

·         KVKs at Kukumseri, Sundernagar and Bara organized Kisan Gosthies and Field Days.

·         KVKs conducted six on-farm trials and equal number Front-line demonstrations.

·         Department of Agricultural Engineering organized two training programmes and Department of Organic Agriculture organized one training programme for the farmers.

·         786 clinical cases were diagnosed and  treated in veterinary clinics and  350  samples were also analyzed.

·         522  farmers from various parts of the State visited University HQ and KVKs for technical guidance.

 

Miscellaneous

·         A building of organic agriculture production block worth Rs. 77 lac and  farm office building in the Department of Vegetable Science & Floriculture worth Rs. 28 lac was inaugurated by Dr.K.K.Katoch, the then Vice-Chancellor  on 28 July. He also inaugurated and dedicated the digital library worth Rs.8 lac.

·         Van Mahotsav was celebrated on 30 July.The staff and students planted a large number of saplings  of Lucaena to mark the occasion.

 

Finance

·         Dr GCN COVAS generated a revenue of  Rs.63,82,361  only, the College of Agriculture generated   income of  Rs. 5,56,374 only and the Directorate of Extension Education generated an amount of  Rs.5,00,815 only.

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

 

 

 

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Last Updated: July 30, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/45 Dated: 30 July 2016

 

Palampur 30 July. Van Mahotsav was celebrated at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, here today. Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor, planted a sapling of   Lucaena to mark the occasion.

He said that plants help in minimizing the harmful effects of global warming, improve the conservation of biodiversity, soil and water besides increasing the forest cover. The university staff also  planted Lucaena saplings in a large number. This plant is commonly known as Subabul and is useful for claiming waste land, fodder and fuel. Statutory officers, staff and students were present on the occasion.

 

 

 

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Last Updated: July 30, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/44 Dated: 29 July 2016
 

Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU enumerates achievements during his three years tenure

 

Palampur 29 July. On the eve of completion of his three years term as Vice-Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, Dr.K.K.Katoch, has enumerated his major achievements. He said that specific initiatives were taken for the development and improvement in the functioning of the university, management of financial health, human resource development, research and extension activities, teaching and students’ development under his leadership.

 

The Vice-Chancellor said that he was able to secure  Rs.99.38 crore additional financial assistance from the Govt of Himachal Pradesh which helped him to clear the pending dues of pensioners and employees. The regular state grant-in-aid budget was got raised from  Rs.57 crore to Rs. 77.25 crore in the year 2016-17. Dr.K.K.Katoch also thanked the Chief Minister and State Govt. for this liberal grant.

 

He  told that 201 adhoc research projects worth Rs. 169 crore were submitted and 90 projects worth Rs.27 crore  were sanctioned by different agencies. The state government also sanctioned Rs.five crore for a girls’ hostel and two hostels one each for boys and girls worth Rs. 2.5 crore each have also been sanctioned. Dr.Katoch said that emphasis was also given for infrastructure development and construction works worth Rs.26 crore have been completed in the university and out- stations. The University library was recently digitalized. A Central Purchase and Disposal Unit was established which has been able to save time of the staff and was generating additional income to the university by way of handling charges. An income of Rs.1.17 crore has been generated by this unit.  Environmental friendly on-line admission system was successfully introduced to facilitate the applicants for different undergraduate programmes. Similarly, video-conferencing unit was established for conducting viva-voce examination for post- graduate students. This facility has also been created in some research stations to benefit staff and farmers.

International coordination cell was created to enhance inter-institutional academic, research and extension in the country and outside country.

 

Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor informed that he was able to regularize holding of annual convocation which were pending since the year 2006.The process to establish two new farm colleges at Dhaulakuan and Bajaura has been approved by the Board of Management (BOM). In addition to this proposal, a proposal to establish a regional research sub-station and model research pasture at Pangi has been submitted to the Government. Another proposal to reserve some seats for wards of agriculturists in B.Sc. (Agriculture) has been approved by the BOM. A provision of reservation purely on the basis of performance in sports has been made to promote excellence in sports. All due promotions of teaching and non-teaching staff were done and 45 posts of teachers and 33 posts of non-teachers were got sanctioned.

 

He told that seven memorandums of understandings were signed with international and national institutions.

Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor, elaborated that efforts were made to accelerate research and extension activities. Four new All India Coordinated projects were sanctioned, three crop varieties were released and twenty new technologies were developed. Around one thousand training programmes were organized and around 7600 farmers’ visits were conducted. In addition to regular organization of international and national seminars, conferences, etc; meetings of all statutory bodies were held in time. For the first time, a workshop on zero budget farming was organized which was inaugurated by the Governor of Himachal Pradesh.

 

The Vice-Chancellor expressed his gratitude to the Chancellor for his guidance and thanked Chief Minister and Govt of Himachal Pradesh for full support in running the affairs of the university. He also thanked members of senate, BOM, Academic Council, various teaching and non-teaching unions and the university staff for extending support to him for successful completion of his three years term.

 

 

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Last Updated: July 30, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/43 Dated:28 July 2016

Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor inaugurates two buildings and Digital library worth Rs. 113 lac at CSK HPAU

 

Palampur 28 July.  A building of organic agriculture production block worth Rs. 77 lac was inaugurated by Dr.K.K.Katoch,Vice-Chancellor  at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University here today.  Another farm office building worth Rs. 28 lac in the Department of Vegetable Science and  Floriculture was also inaugurated by him. Both the works have been fully funded by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research(ICAR). The Vice-Chancellor said that the new buildings will facilitate the staff, students and visiting farmers.

The Vice-Chancellor also inaugurated and dedicated the digital library worth Rs.8 lac. He told that it will allow online access to the students, teachers and others. The users will be able to find searchable collection of books online and outside the university through Ez proxy software. The project of digitization of special section of university library focused on Himachal Pradesh was sanctioned by the Govt of H.P. More than 2600 theses have been digitized and work is in progress for other pending books, etc.

Estate officer Er.A.K.Chadha, Librarian Dr.Atul, Dean Dr.Kamlesh Singh, Director of Extension Education Dr. P.K.Mehta, Director of Research Dt. S.S.Kanwar, Dean Dr GCN COVAS Dr.R.K.Agnihotri , Er. Ashok Sood, Architect Ashwani Sharma, Head Vegetable Science & Floriculture   Dr Y.S.Chauhan, Head Deptt of Organic Agriculture Dr.J.P.Saini, Assistant Librarian Mr.Dev Walia   and others were present during inauguration ceremonies.

 

 

 

 

 

Pic caption: Dr.K.K.Katoch Vice-Chancellor inaugurating the organic agriculture production block, farm office building and digital library.

 

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Last Updated: July 06, 2016

Significant University Activities for the month of  May 2016

MEDIA CELL

Key Highlights

 

Research

 

Extension Education

 

Miscellaneous

 

Finance

 

 

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Last Updated: June 22, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/37  Dated: June 21, 2016

 

Kisan Mela-cum Training on protection of  plant varieties & farmers rights act at Chambi(Rait)

The Vice-Chancellor exhorts farmers to conserve seed of traditional crop varieties

 Palampur 21 June. A Kisan Mela was organized by CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University's  Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kangra at Chambi, near Rait, around 55 Kms from here today.

 Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor, while presiding over the Mela, asked the farmers to preserve the seed of traditional crop varieties as there was huge market for traditional crops like Red rice.  He also asked them to avoid indiscriminate use of chemical in the crops and also grow chemical free and nutritious food. The Vice-Chancellor also asked them to bring more area under pulses and oilseed crops. He also underlined the importance of soil and water conservation, animal husbandry, farm education, etc and asked the farmers to make use of government programmes to raise crop production. He told that the university was always at the door step of farmers to solve their problems.  

Chief Guest Shri Kewal Singh Pathania, Vice-Chairman, H.P.State Forest Development Corporation and Members, Board of Management of the university, appreciated the collective efforts of Farm University, department of agriculture and progressive farmers for making the state self sufficient on food front. He told that such Kisan Melas help better communication between various stake holders. Shri Pathania said that the state government was committed for agricultural development and a large number of vacant positions in the department of agriculture have been filled up. He also elaborated about various government initiatives for the farmers.

Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education, exhorted the farmers to remain in touch with KVKs and  the university for latest farm knowhow. Dr.Satish Paul, Nodal Officer, PPV & FRA and Principal Scientist, detailed about the protection of  plant varieties and farmers rights act.

Dr.Sanjiv Upadhyay, Programme Coordinator, KVK; Dr.D.K.Vats, Head, Agricultural Engineering, Dr.Desh Raj, Deputy Director Agriculture; Dr.Shashi Sharma, Deputy Director Horticulture, Dr.Suresh Kumar, Additional Chief Conservator of forests; Dr.Pawnesh Sharma, Regional Director, Mid-Himalyan Project,  and some other officers also expressed their views. Dr.Pradeep Thakur, Conservator of Forests, Sh Shrwan Manta, SDM; Smt Rekha, BDO., etc were present in the Mela.

An exhibition was also installed and some progressive farmers were honoured on the occasion.

 

 

 

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Last Updated: June 18, 2016

 

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/35  Dated: June 16, 2016

 

Dr.K.K.Katoch,VC chairs Scientific Advisory Committee meeting at KVK,  Bara

 

CSKHPAU develops a new strain of poultry for backyard poultry farming

 

Bara(Hamirpur) 18 June. A scientific advisory committee meeting of the Krishi Vigyan Kendra(KVK) was held under the chairmanship of Dr.K.K.Katoch,Vice-Chancellor,CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

While addressing around thirty  district level officers from different departments, scientists and progressive farmers, the Vice-Chancellor informed  that the university has developed a new strain  of poultry which lays  on an average  about 150 eggs in a year under the back yard poultry production system. This strain has  been developed by crossing of a dual purpose  Dahlem Red breed with native birds of Himahcal Pradesh and has  proved suitable under backyard  poultry farming under local agro-climatic condition. He asked the members to  motivate the farmers to adopt backyard poultry farming to raise their economic and nutritional status.

He said that it was imperative to judiciously use all natural resources and laid emphasis on water conservation. Dr Katoch said that Nadaun region was known for vegetable production and the university will solve the newly emerged problems for the farmers of this area. He also spoke on the importance of crop insurance, soil health cards, agricultural marketing, etc.The Vice-Chancellor also appreciated the perfect coordination between KVK and district level officers of various departments.

Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education, said that the university was making efforts to train young farmers and the farming community was being made aware about the solutions to face the challenges of climate change.

Dr.S.S.Kanwar, Director of Research,said that the university was aware about the new insect pests under poly house farming and detailed about the research on this issue.He also spoke in the importance of animal husbandry.

Dr.Pardeep Kumar, Programme Coordinator, KVK, elaborated about the work done in the past and detailed about the trainings and other extension programmes to be carried out in future. Dr Chaman Chauhan, Dr Anjana Thakur, Dr.Albel Singh, Deputy Director Agriculture; Dr.Subhash, Deputy Director Horticulture; Dr.B.N.Sharma, Deputy Director Animal Husbandry, Sh. R.C.Goma, DFO and progressive farmers Sh Narender Sandhu,Sh Baljeet Sandhu , Sh Suresh Kumar, Smt Usha Katoch and other  took part in the  deliberations and gave suggestions for the smooth functioning of the KVK.

 

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Last Updated: June 17, 2016

 

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/35  Dated: June 16, 2016

 

Scientific Advisory Committee meeting at KVK,Kangra

CSKHPAU to establish Hill Cow Breeding Centre: Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor

 

Palampur  16 June. A scientific advisory committee (SAC) meeting of Krishi Vigyan Kendra(KVK)  was held today at Kangra under the chairmanship of Dr.K.K.Katoch,Vice-Chancellor,CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University.

While addressing around three dozen members of SAC including officers from different departments, scientists and progressive farmers, the Vice-Chancellor said that new challenges have emerged due to climate change and the farming community should be advised and prepared to accept these with precise information. He told that his university was already working on such issues and have also started work on zero budget natural farming. He also asked the members to create awareness about the need to bring more area under pulses and oilseeds.The Vice-Chancellor also underlined the importance of soil and water conservation, poly house farming, etc. and informed that his university will establish a hill cow breeding centre at the main campus. There was a proposal to establish a model rehabilitation and improvement centre for cattle.

Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education, said that Kangra being a large district with varied topography has many challenges for the farmers and scientists but  there were solutions to all major farm problems. He asked farmers to provide effective feedback to the scientists for better results in the farms.He sought cooperation from all members to spread new technology among farmers.

Dr.Sanjiv Upadhyay, Programme Coordinator, KVK, elaborated about the work done in the past and future programmes. Dr Vishal Dogra, Principal Extension Specialist; Dr.Ashok Kumar, Scientist Incharge, Oilseeds Research Station; Dr.Desh Raj, Deputy Director Agriculture; Dr.Shashi Sharma, Deputy Director Horticulture, Dr.Suman, District Manager, Nabard and progressive farmers Mr Raghubir Singh, Mr Zalim Singh, Mrs Baljeet Kaur and Mrs Rekha Chaudhry actively participated in the deliberations.

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Last Updated: June 13, 2016

 

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/34  Dated: June 13, 2016

Kisan Mela on Prime Minister Crop Insurance Scheme at KVK, Kangra

Palampur 13 June. Mrs Viplove Thakur, Member Parliament (Rajya Sabha) has asked the farming community to take advantage of ‘Pardhanmantri Fasal Bima Yojna’ ( PMFBY) to safeguard themselves from crop losses due weather vagaries. She, as Chief Guest, was addressing the farmers during a Kisan Mela organized by the CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University’s Krishi Vigyan Kendra at Kangra today. Mrs Viplove Thakur said that the farming community of Himachal Pradesh was very hard working and the ladies were playing an active role in various farm operations. She asked the bank and insurance officers to adequately explain about the PMFBY in a simple and easy to understand language so that the farmers may properly understand and adopt this useful scheme. She also told that the state government has reduced the premium to merely 0.8 percent on some crops and the farmers must make use of low premium PMFBY. Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education, said that weather plays a major role in crop operations and it was imperative to safeguard the interests of farmers. PMFBY can come to the rescue of farmers in case of any loss. He also asked the farmers to save water and adopt avocations like bee-keeping to supplement their income. He said that farmers can always rely upon the information from KVKs for increasing their crop yields. Dr.Sanjiv Upadhyay, Programme Coordinator ,KVK explained about activities of his centre. Messers  Suman, P Rana and V.K.Sharma, all officers from banks and insurance companies, gave detailed information about PMFBY. Dr.Ripon Sood, Project Director, ATMA and officers from the department of agriculture and horticulture also attended the Kisan Mela.

Mrs Viplove Thakur addressing the farmers

a view of the dais and participating farmers

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Last Updated: June 10, 2016

Significant University Activities for the month of  May 2016

MEDIA CELL

Key Highlights

Research

Extension Education


 

Miscellaneous

Finance

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Last Updated: May 20, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/32  Dated: May 20, 2016

 

Media Visit to the Estate Office

Palampur 19 May. The Media Cell of CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University conducted a media visit to the Estate Office today. While interacting with reporters of print and electronic media, Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor told that the Indian Council of Agricultural Research has agreed to the university proposal to sanction Rs.2.5 crore as a special fund to commemorate Golden Jubilee Celebrations of the College of Agriculture.

He told that emphasis has been to augment infra-structural facilities for the students, farmers and staff. As the number of girl students in different academic programmes was increasing every year so to accommodate almost 180 girls, foundation stone of two new girls’ hostels has been laid, in addition to a new boys hostel. He said that all construction works were of high quality, environment friendly and having a flair for hill architect. The Vice-Chancellor also answered to several questions concerning the university.

Earlier, Er.A.K.Chadha, Estate Officer, gave detailed information about the working of his office and told that construction works to the tune of Rs. 2877 lac have been completed in the last three years. Some other miscellaneous works worth Rs.five crore have also been completed. He informed that among the major works, Advance Multidisciplinary Veterinary Services &  Farmers’ Capacity Building Centre worth Rs. 6 crore, S.C.Girls Hostel worth Rs. Two crore, Examination Hall worth Rs.2.5 crore, Educational Museum worth Rs.One crore , Chamundeshwari Hostel worth Rs. 1.5 crore, etc. were the major works in addition to construction works at eight Krishi Vigyan Kendra and fourteen Research Stations. The reporters  were also taken to the major spots were new works have been completed or works were in progress.  Er.Ashok Sood, Er. R.S.Premi, both Executive Engineers and Dr.Hirday Paul Singh, Joint Director Information & Public Relations) were also present during the Media Visit attended by around a ten reporters.

 

 

 

 

Some pics of Media Visit to Estate Office

 

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Last Updated: May 12, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/31  Dated: May 11, 2016

 

Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor underlines the need of effective transfer of technology

for the benefit of farming community

Palampur 11 May. A State level annual action plan meeting of all twelve Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) of Himachal Pradesh was held at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

Dr K.K.Katoch,Vice-Chancellor, in his inaugural address,  told that the Indian Council of Agricultural Research(ICAR) had largest extension network in country through KVKs. He said that technology should be refined before transferring and it needs to be passed on to the farming community through precision for ready adoption. He suggested that each and every aspect should be monitored properly and observations by the specialists were important. The Vice-Chancellor exhorted utilization of mass media approach for effective transfer of useful technology to the farmers. He also advised that only those farm inputs should be popularized which were readily available in the respective areas.

Dr.K.K.Katoch asked KVKs to give proposals for new initiatives like zero budget natural farming, etc. He said that integration of technology with climate was a must. He also discussed issues like trainings for women farmers, judicious use of chemicals in agriculture ,etc.  

Dr Rajbir Singh, Director, Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute(ATARI),Zone-I,  Ludhiana told that KVK,Una has been selected for massive seed production programme on pulses and oil seeds. He told that in addition to given mandate, KVKs became hub of activities with Govt. of India new initiatives like Adarsh Gram Yojna, Skill India, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Soil Health Cards, etc. There were 643 KVKs in the country and more than four hundred Member of Parliament visited these KVKs in the recent past. It makes them aware about KVK activities. He asked extension specialists to highlight KVK activities and focus on skill development with trainings of minimum three days. 

Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education, said that formulation of action plan was an essential activity as KVKs work for the socio-economic development of farming community. He asked KVKs to lay front line demonstration on pulses, show-case latest technology through on farm trials, etc. He asked KVKs to effectively involve youngsters in skill development programmes.

Dr. S.K.Gupta, Joint Director, Dr Y.S.Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Solan, asked KVKs to do impact analysis and test technologies under different micro climates. Drs Keshav,.Desh Raj and Pankaj Sood  also expressed their views.

Programme coordinators of twelve KVKs of the State and  Heads of departments participated in the meeting which was jointly organized by Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Zone-I and the Directorate of Extension Education, CSKHPAU.Dr.S.S.Kanwar, Director of Research and Dr.Hirday Paul Singh, Joint Director(Information & Public Relations) also attended the inaugural ceremony.

 Director of Extension Education welcoming Vice-Chancellor

 

 A view of the dais and audience

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Last Updated: May 6, 2016

 

Significant University Activities for the month of  April 2016

 

MEDIA CELL

Key Highlights

 Research

Extension Education

 Miscellaneous 

Finance

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Last Updated: April 29, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/29  Dated: April 29, 2016

His Excellency the Governor at CSKHPAU

The Governor pays a visit to Agricultural Technology Information Centre

Palampur 29 April. Acharya Devvrat, His Excellency the Governor and Chancellor, CSKHPAU, paid a visit to Agricultural Technology Information Centre(ATIC) today morning. Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor welcomed the Chancellor. Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director Extension Education, conducted the visit and detailed about the ATIC mandate, functioning and the services being provided to the farmers and others from this single window unit. Some of the pics of H.E. the Governor's visit:

 

 

 

 

 

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Last Updated: April 27, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/28  Dated: April 27, 2016

His Excellency the Governor at CSKHPAU

Glimpses of the inaugural ceremony of Zero Budget Natural Farming

 Palampur 27 April. Acharya Devvrat, His Excellency the Governor of Himachal Pradesh and Chancellor, CSKH.P. Agriculture University inaugurated the four days national training workshop on Zero Budget Natural Farming at the University, here today.  H.E. appreciated the University for this Initiative and exhorted the students and scientists to religiously attend the workshop for four days. He expressed the hope that the workshop will enable the participants to think afresh and open new vistas in their lives.

The Governor thanked well known exponent of natural farming Padamshree Subhash Palekar for making  50 lakh farmers follow the concept of natural farming in the country.The Governor also asked the scientists to listen and learn the new concept so that it is properly transferred to the farming community.

Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor, informed that his University had , already, introduced the concept of natural farming as a research component in post graduate research. Even the fifty percent area under organic farm has been put under the natural farming. He said that natural farming was environment friendly, self sustaining and it respects human life.

Padamshree Subhash Palekar, the key speaker, told that it was a myth that the nation was self sufficient on food front as the country was, still, importing pulses and many other inputs for modern farming. He said that industrialization was not answer to employment generation as it was a big source of green house gases detrimental to ozone layer. He said that only ‘zero budget spiritual farming’    could provide solutions to manifold problems the country was facing. He said that Himachal Pradesh was ideal for this type of farming and youngsters need to follow it.

Dr P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education, welcomed all and Dr.S.S.Kanwar, Director of Research, presented a vote of thanks.

More than three hundred farmers from different districts of Himachal Pradesh and  some farmers from Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Haryana and Punjab are also attending the workshop.

University officers, scientists and students attended the inaugural ceremony. Officers from the district and local administration and State Departments of Agriculture and Horticulture were also present on the occasion.

Earlier, the Governor also visited the organic farm of the University and interacted with scientists.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Some pictures of the inaugural ceremony and field visit by His Excellency the Governor:

 

 

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Last Updated: April 21, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/27  Dated: April 21, 2016

Farm Officers’ Workshop on Kharif  Crops

Sh. Sujan Singh Pathania exhorts scientists & farm officers to increase income of farmers

Palampur 21 April. Shri Sujan Singh Pathania, Minister of Agriculture, Himachal Pradesh, has advocated increasing the income of farming community. He was addressing officers from the State Department of Agriculture, University scientists and progressive farmers during the inaugural ceremony of State level Agriculture Officers' Workshop on Kharif crops at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

The Minister said that the cost of production of farm produce has increased substantially but the income of farmers has not increased reasonably. He suggested that fast and accurate transfer of modern technology, crop diversification, quality control, decrease in post harvest losses, etc. were some of the issues which   needed attention of stake holders to help in substantially increasing the income of farmers. He also underlined the need to increase area under pulse crops.  "As pulses were rich source of protein so its production besides providing remunerative prices will also  provide  nutritional security to small and marginal farmers.", the Minister said. Shri Pathania told that most of the farm operations were performed by women so there was need to reduce drudgery by farm mechanization.

While elaborating about various programmes of the government to increase production, the minister said that the State has emerged as a model agricultural hill state and has earned name in vegetable production, protected cultivation, organic farming, mushroom farming, etc. The area under vegetable crops has increased to 75 thousand hectare with production of 15 lakh metric ton. He also congratulated the farmers, officers and scientists as the State was regularly  decorated with many agricultural prizes at the national level.

Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor, said that bee-keeping should be popularized for pollination and honey. The meeting of state varieties release committee should be held at regular intervals so that the university developed crop varieties may reach farmers in time. The university was developing tomato hybrid seed for the farmers. As the climate change was adversely affecting the crop production so optimum use of irrigation sources was a must. He also informed about a training programme on zero budget farming from 27 April to 30 April at the university and asked the farmers to attend it.Dr.K.K.Katoch said the proper implementation of various farmer welfare schemes was as important as its truthful adoption. The Vice-Chancellor appreciated the perfect coordination between the university and state department of agriculture.

Dr.Som Raj Kalia, Director, Deptt of Agriculture, H.P. informed about the arrangements made for farm inputs for ensuing Kharif season. He also elaborated about Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna, 'National Food Security Mission', Organic Farming, etc, and told that Rs. 25 crore 'Mukhyamantri Khet Sarankshan Yojna (Chief Minister Crop Protection Scheme)',  Rs. five crore 'Uttam Chara Utpadan Scheme (Quality Fodder Production Scheme)', etc. have also been implemented. He  asked the officers to achieve targets in time. The Director also elaborated about 'Pradhan Mantri Fasal Vima  Yojna'.

Dr.S.S.Kanwar, Director of Research, elaborated about significant research accomplishments and priorities of the University. He informed that  15856 Kg breeder seed and  8889 Kg of  foundation seed of cereals, pulses, oilseeds, vegetables and fodder crops was produced during last  Kharif  season. 131 research project worth Rs. 4709 lac were in operation in the university. He also informed about the release proposal of Rice variety HPR 2656 (Him Palam Dhan 1) for cultivation in Low & Mid hills of H.P. and Release proposal of Rice variety HPR 2880 (Him Palam Dhan 2) for cultivation in Low & Mid hills of H.P. and   Palam Sankar Makka 2 (EHL 161708), a single cross medium maturity maize hybrid for inclusion in the package of practices for Kharif Crops.

Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education, told that 18732 farmers participated in various trainings by the directorate of extension and Krishi Vigyan Kendras. The university was utilizing mobile and social media to transfer the latest farm  information among farmers. To encourage farm mechanization, custom hiring centre facility has been initiated for small and marginal farmers from where they can hire small farm machinery. He told that a four day workshop on zero budget farming will be organized in the last week of this month.

Dr.Desh Raj Chaudhry also expressed his views. University statutory officers, Progressive farmers  Messers Kulwant Singh, Rajender Thakur, Balbir Singh, Vijay Kumar, Ashwani Sharma, Babu Ram, Tej Singh and Padam Singh also took active part in the discussions and gave suggestions.

 

Shri Sujan Singh Pathania, Agriculture Minister flanked by Vice-Chancellor Dr.K.K.Katoch and other officers during

inaugural ceremony of  Kharif Workshop

A view of the progressive farmers, scientists and officers

Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor honoring the Agriculture Minister Shri Sujan Singh Pathania

 

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Last Updated: April 16, 2016

 

 

 

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/26  Dated: April 12, 2016

Three farm scientists from CSKHPAU get H.P. State Innovation Award 

Palampur  16 April. Three  CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University scientists have been awarded with maiden H.P. State Innovation Award. Drs.P.K.Mehta, Pankaj Sood and CS Parbhakar, who developed a simple fruit fly trap for the benefit of farming community, were conferred this award by the Chief Minister during Statehood day function at Ghumarwin, yesterday. 

According to Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor, fruit flies are  one of the most serious pests of agriculture in India and their management using mass trapping techniques by developing a local bottle based fruit fly trap (Palam trap) was  achieved by a team of farm scientists lead by Dr.P.K.Mehta.  The trap was developed considering the wide spectrum of fruit fly species prevalent in the region. The fruit flies cause extensive damage to vegetable crops like cucumber, tomato, bitter gourd and such other cucurbitaceous vegetable crops and fruits like mango, guava, peach, pear  and all citrus fruits. It is suitable for agriculture and horticulture ecosystems. The technology after on- farm testing at various locations within the state has been demonstrated and highly acclaimed by the farmers. The technology has been included in the university package of practices. Technology has been disseminated by organizing a number of training camps for extension personnel, rural youth and farmers, awareness camps and through pamphlets. The department of agriculture has also taken up the technology and is  providing the traps developed by the University at Krishi Vigyan Kendra , Mandi and university headquarters  on subsidized rates to the farmers.

Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education and team leader told that more than  forty thousand traps worth Rs. fifty lakh  have been provided to the farmers during last five years. Palam trap has become a house hold name amongst the vegetable and  fruit growers in the state. The traps have also been demonstrated through KVKs in Haryana & Punjab and widely appreciated. Being an environmental friendly and easy to adopt technology, the farmers were  readily accepting the same. It being a low cost and local technology, this not only increased productivity but also overall profitability of the growers. Being a pesticide free or minimum pesticide usage technology, it is sustainable and consumer friendly as the harmful residual toxicity is minimized.

 

Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor, has appreciated the efforts of scientists and asked other scientists to emulate them for the socio-economic betterment of farmers.

 

             

                           

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Last Updated: April 12, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/24  Dated: April 12, 2016

 

Farmers, scientists and farm  officers celebrate Wheat day at Malan

 

Palampur 12  April. Wheat day was celebrated by farmers, scientists and agriculture officers at Rice & Wheat Research Station of CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University at Malan, 20 KMs from here today.

 

Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice Chancellor, as Chief Guest, while appreciating the efforts of scientists for developing high yielding wheat varieties, asked the farmers to pay attention for growing pulse crops also. He said that it was important to conserve seeds of traditional crop varieties and emphasised the importance of safe food. He also spoke on the importance of organic farming, protected cultivation, soil and water conservation, animal husbandry, etc and asked the farmers to make use of available technology for their socio-economic development.

 

Dr.Katoch asked the young farmers to make use of social media to elicit farm related information from scientists and others. He said that potato growing farmers of the area may form a group of WhatsApp to share issue related to potato production.

Dr.S.S.Kanwar, Director of Research elaborated about the research work on various wheat varieties which were resistant to yellow rust and such other diseases. He asked the farmers to use quality seed from a known source and replace seed at regular intervals. Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education, suggested the farmers to maintain a live-link with university and its all Krishi Vigyan Kendras and research stations for latest know-how. He also spoke on the importance of bee keeping.

 

Dr.Rippon Sood, Project Director, Agricultural Technology Management Agency(ATMA) elaborated about various training and other programmes for the benefit of farmers. He underlined the importance of technology in wheat production.

 

Dr.Ashwani  Basandrai, Principal Scientists and In-charge, Rice & Wheat Research Station educated about various activities of his station.

 

Head of Departments from the university and other scientists interacted with farmers to answer their farm related questions.Dr.Ajai Srivastva and Dr.D.R.Thakur also expressed their views on wheat crop.

Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice Chancellor, honoured progressive farmers Shri Desh Raj and Smt. Anita Devi. He inaugurated a green house and seed store at the station. He also visited the experimental farm and visited the exhibition installed on the occasion. Farmers also purchased seed of paddy and summer vegetables.

 

 

A view of the dais and audience

 

The Vice-Chancellor honouring the progressive farmers and inaugurating the green house.

 

 

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Last Updated: April 11, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/23  Dated: April 11, 2016

CSKHPAU scientists organize infertility treatment camps at high altitude tribal villages of Kinnaur

 Palampur 11 April. A team of veterinary scientists from CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University   organized eight infertility treatment camps for cows at high altitude tribal villages Katgaon, Kafnu, Kanam, Labrang, Giabong, Pooh, Namgia and Kalpa of Distt. Kinnaur. Around 150 cows suffering from infertility problems were examined and treated. Scientists collected uterine discharge samples from repeat breeder cows to study the infection pattern of reproductive diseases. Blood samples were also collected from infertile cows to study minerals, biochemical and hormonal profile for detailed diagnosis of the diseases. Free treatment was provided to ailing animals of farmers. The team leader and Principal Investigator Prof. Madhumeet Singh told that infertility camps were organized under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna (RKVY) project to investigate various causes responsible for infertility and their treatment in bovines in Himachal Pradesh.Other team members included Dr. Pravesh Kumar, Mr. Manoj Negi, Mr. Kamaljeet and Mr. Vijay Rana from the Department of Veterinary Gynecology and obstetrics, Dr. G. C. Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences.In the  recent past,  scientists from Department of Veterinary Gynecology and obstetrics have organized 134 infertility treatment camps in all parts of Himachal Pradesh under RKVY project, including 41 camps in tribal areas of Pangi, Bharmour, Lahaul & Spiti and Kinnaur and also in some very remote locations like villages of Dodra-Kwar (Shimla) and trans-giri belt of Sirmour. More than 2700 animals with reproductive ailments have been examined and treated so far in these camps. Dr K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor, has appreciated the efforts of scientists for serving them in difficult and remote areas of Himachal Pradesh.

 


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Last Updated: April 11, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/22 Dated: April 09, 2016

 

CSK H.P. Agriculture University to fill up 31  positions of teachers and non-teachers

Palampur 9  April. The Board of Management (BOM) of CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University on the recommendation of Finance Committee has accorded permission to fill up thirty one positions of  teachers and non -teaching employees  in the university. This was disclosed by Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice Chancellor, who chaired the twin meetings of Finance Committee and  BOM.

Dr.K.K.Katoch told that ten posts of assistant professors in Dr G C Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, twenty posts of junior office assistants and one post of assistant registrar will be filled up. The university budget to the tune of Rs.151 crore was also approved. He said that six percent DA of university employees and pensioners has already been released and confirmed in the meeting. The board allowed extending family pension benefits to mentally retarded and differently abled children even after their marriage. The stipend of farm students undergoing rural agricultural work experience has been increased to Rs. Three thousand at par with Indian Council of Agricultural Research. To attract international students, the fee structure has been rationalised for them. Under career advanced scheme, three teachers were promoted to the rank of associate professor and one teacher was promoted to the rank of professor.

The Vice-Chancellor informed the members about major activities undertaken in the university since last meeting and the members appreciated the new initiatives like conduct of online viva voce examination through video conferencing, streamlining of entrance examination, extending the entrance based merit list of applicants to private institutions, addition of new hostels, etc.

 Fifteen members  including Mrs Upma Chaudhary,IAS, Additional Chief Secretary Agriculture; Mr S.K.Baldi, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary Finance; Dr.Som Raj Kalia, Director of Agriculture ; Dr.Shekhar Masey, Director of Animal Husbandry; Dr.D.P.Bhangalia, Director Horticulture; Mr Kewal Singh Pathania, Dr.H.S.Baweja, Mr Rakesh Kumar, Er.S.P.Negi, Dr.Kamlesh Singh, Mr.Jatinder Singh, Mrs. Shashi Kiran, Dr.N.K.Pandey, Mr.Manoj Kumar,HAS, Registrar-cum- Member Secretary  attended the meeting.

 

 

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Last Updated: April 06, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/21 Dated: April 06, 2016

 

Vice-Chancellor Dr.K.K.Katoch lays the foundation stone of a new girls hostel worth Rs.2.5 crore

 Palampur 6 April.  Dr.K.K.Katoch,Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University, laid the foundation stone of a new girls hostel 'Kalindi'.  It will have 36 rooms to house 72 girls. It will be constructed at the cost of Rs. 2.5 crore and has been fully funded by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research(ICAR). Only yesterday, the foundation stone of boys hostel worth Rs. 2.5 crore was laid.

Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor told that with the addition to new hostel, all the university hostels will be able to accommodate 1050 students from the total 1380 students on roll. He told that two more hostels, one for boys and another for girls, are likely to be sanctioned soon by Govt. of India where proposal has, already, been submitted.

Estate Officer Er.A.K.Chadha, Executive Engineer Ashok Sood, Architect Ashwani Sharma, statutory officers, scientists and students were present on the occasion.

 

Vice-Chancellor laying the foundation stone of Kalindi girls hostel and Architect Ashwani Sharma explain the building plan to him

 

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Last Updated: April 06, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/20 Dated: April 05, 2016

 

Articulate Tradition, Technology, Talent and Trade to make agriculture as alternative field for livelihood & sustainable development: Dr.N.S.Rathore, DDG, ICAR

 

Palampur 5 April. Dr. Narendra Singh Rathore, Deputy Director General (Education), Indian Council of Agricultural Research(ICAR) has asked the farm scientists to extend whole hearted support in  sustainable development of the rural India. He was delivering Golden Jubilee lecture to commemorate fifty years of the College of Agriculture at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

Dr.Rathore  said that it was imperative to make agricultural system more  vibrant for sustainability and livelihood. "Today we need skills, not just degrees, with the ability to assimilate, adapt, apply and develop new technologies. We need high quality agricultural graduates equipped with problem solving and creative skills and ability to think and improve productivity of agricultural sector", said Deputy Director General.

He told that ICAR has decided to introduce Student READY programme which was Rural Entrepreneurship Awareness Development Yojana in Under Graduate courses. It will include provision of Experiential learning, Hands-on training and Skill development, Rural Agricultural Work Experience, In plant training and Student project for one year period. He also underlined the need to articulate four T's namely Tradition, Technology, Talent and Trade to make agriculture as alternative field for livelihood and sustainable development.

Dr Rathore said that the agricultural sector was  getting more complex due to globalization, impact of climate change, entry of corporate sector in agriculture value chain, expanding demand for processed food, and need for postharvest technology. Declining land productivity and global climate changes were major challenges of today's agriculture. He suggested PQRST formula for accelerating agriculture by enhancing Productivity, Quality, Remuneration, Sustainability and Trading in agriculture field.

While presiding over the function, Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor, appreciated   the successful fifty years journey of the College of Agriculture(COA). He  informed that the university has decided to introduce 10 percent inputs in its examination system from e-Krishi Shiksha Portal of the ICAR to broaden the understanding of subjects by the students. Sustained efforts were being made to improve the quality of education. The University has taken lead by starting online viva voce examination through video conferencing, online admission process, regularizing convocations, establishing International coordination cell, world class infrastructure and facilities to the students, especially foreign students. He also elaborated about other achievements in the area of academics, research and extension education.

Dr.Dinesh Badiyala, Dean, COA  informed about major achievements of his college whereas Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education made a power point presentation on the genesis and growth of this college.

The Chief Guest also honored some former deans, teachers and alumni of the COA. Dr.P.K.Mehta and his team was honored for development of 'Palam trap' to control fruit fly damage in vegetables and fruits. A golden jubilee souvenir and college magazine Him Jyoti were also released on the occasion.

Dr.N.S.Rathore also laid the foundation stone of a new boy's hostel. It will house around ninety students in 29 rooms and will be constructed at the cost of Rs. 2.5 crore. It has been fully funded by ICAR. Dr.K.K.Katoch,Vice-Chancellor and statutory officers were present on the occasion. The DDG also visited some departments in the university and interacted with scientists and students.

 

Dignitaries on the dais

 

Dignitaries releasing souvenir

 

 

 

 

DDG laying the foundation stone of new boys hostel worth Rs.2.5 crore.

 

 

The Vice-Chancellor honoring DDG

 

 

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Last Updated: April 04, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/19 Dated: April 04, 2016

Vice Chancellor Dr.K.K.Katoch inaugurates INSPIRE internship camp at CSKHPAU

Palampur 4 April. A five days Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) internship camp for 150 meritorious students from 15 schools of the districts of Bilspur, Mandi, Kangra and Una began at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

 

Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor, while inaugurating the camp informed that the Govt. of India was making many efforts to popularize science in the country by different schemes at different levels. He asked the students to utilize the golden opportunity to pursue science as a career and help the country in creating a rich human resource pool in various branches of the science. He expressed his happiness that various Inspire camps held in the university in the past have been able to create a joy of learning and many of the participants joined this university to pursue a degree in agriculture or allied sciences. The Vice-Chancellor also narrated some of the innovations of last decade, especially in the areas of communication and social networking. He expressed the hope that the participants will interact freely with top scientists to satiate their science related queries during the five days.

 

Dr. Pawan Kumar Mehta, Director of Extension Education, while presiding over the inaugural function spoke on the importance of attending such programmes which enlighten the students about their career options, including a bright career in agricultural sciences. The students return enriched after attending such camps.  Dr.O.S.K.S.Sastri, Head of Physics department from the Central University, H.P., delivered a keynote address. He said that understating of science offered the innovators many useful inputs for valuable inventions.

 

Dr.S.S.Kanwar, Director of Research and Coordinator of Inspire camp, told that the University had organized 14 such inspire camps in past with the participation of 2100 students from all over the State. He told that the students who score 84 percent of more marks in the matriculation examination were invited to attend such camps. This time scientists from the top research institutes of the country will be interacting with the students and they will be taken around the labs and each student will be provided a science kit so that they may conduct small experiments.

 

The inaugural session was attended by Dr.Kamlesh Singh, Dean College of Basic Sciences; Dr.R.K.Agnihotri, Dean, Dr.G C Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Science; Dr.Dinesh Badiyala, Dean, College of Agriculture, Dr.Hirday Paul Singh, Jt. Director (Information & Public Relations) and others from the host University.

 

 

A view of the dais & participating students

 

 

Vice-Chancellor Dr.K.K.Katoch delivering the inaugural speech

 

 

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Last Updated: March 29, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/18 Dated:   March 29, 2016

Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor inaugurates online viva voce examination facility at CSKHPAU

Palampur 29 March. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University took a lead among State Agricultural Universities of the country by starting online viva voce examination through video conferencing, here today.

 Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor inaugurated the facility in the video-conferencing hall in the university and hailed it as a smooth, seamless, economic and hassle free system for the benefit of students. He said that the examiners will also save their time, effort and energy to travel to Palampur from their institutions. He said that the university will be in position to appoint examiners from all over the world as distances and remoteness of the Palampur will not be a constraint now. "This will help in further improving the educational standards in the University", he added.

As the students will be thoroughly preparing for their online viva voce examination so they will be ready to face other competitive examinations like Senior Research Fellow, Junior Research Fellow, Agricultural Scientist Recruitment Board and such other competitive examinations without much effort. This examination will be without any distractions which usually creep in the normal viva voce system. The Vice-Chancellor said that the new online viva voce system will have huge financial savings to the university in the form of saving  on travelling and other allowances given to the examiners coming from all over the country.

The very first online viva voce examination of Ms. Anita Rana, Ph.D student from the College of Basic Sciences was conducted by Dr.Rajiv Aggarwal, an examiner from National Bureau of Animal Genetics Resources, Karnal. Dr.Neelam Sharma, Head, Deptt of Chemistry & Biochemistry and other members of student advisory committee were present during the online viva voce examination. Mr.Kapil Sharma extended technical support for the maiden successful effort. Dr.Hirday Paul Singh, Joint Director (Information & Public Relations) was also present during inauguration of the new facility.

 

 

 

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Last Updated: March 28, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/17 Dated:   March 23, 2016

Training  on Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Right Act at Bahri in Dharampur

Vice-Chancellor Dr.K.K.Katoch asked farmers to preserve traditional crop varieties

Palampur 23 March. Krishi Vigyan Kendra,Mandi of CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University organized an awareness and training programme on Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Right Act (PPV & FRA) at village Bahri in Dharampur block of Mandi District today.

Dr.K.K.Katoch,Vice-Chancellor, as chief guest, told that 87 percent seed  requirement of the country was being met  by the farmers.Yet, seeds of several crop varieties was getting extinct with the adoption of modern farming. It was imperative to save the traditional crop varieties as these were rich in many nutrients and micro nutrients. He said that the government had in-acted PPV & FRA to safeguard the interest of farmers. It was necessary to conserve the traditional crop varieties for the food security of the nation. He also told that district Mandi was rich in agro-biodiveristy and there was immense possibility of growing cereals, vegetables and fruit crops. The Vice-Chancellor also advised the farmers to adopt protected cultivation as Govt was providing many incentives to popularize it. He also elaborated about the importance of water conservation, organic farming,animal husbandry,etc.  He told that an expert team has been constituted in the university to train two persons from each block of the state for poly house repair and asked the young farmers to get training for it.

Shri Chandershekhar,Vice-Chairman, H.P. State Handicrafts and Handloom  Corporation Ltd, while presiding over the function, expressed his gratitude to the university for organizing programme in remote area and asked the farmers to seek guidance from the scientist to raise good crops to raise their economic status.He said that people have a desire to adopt modern farming but there was need to preserve the traditional knowledge also. He requested the university to adopt some villages in Dharampur area for research and other activities. He also asked farmers to avoid excessive use of chemicals  and produce safe food.

Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education, asked the farmers to maintain a live link with the university and its KVKs for latest farm technology and information. He told that the university would be organizing a training course on natural farming from 27-30 April  for the benefit of farming community. He also asked them to make use of Palam trap to control fruit fly in vegetable crops in the ensuing Kharif season. It was readily available in all KVKs.

Dr.Satish Paul, Principal Scientist and Nodal Officer, PPVFRA in the university enlightened farmers about various issues related to the act. He advocated them to save the seeds of traditional crop varieties.He told that several types of millets had been an integral part of traditional farming in the state.He specially mentioned about finger millet(Bhandal),Fox tail( kangani) and horse gram(Kulthi),Black gram(Mash), Red rice(Aanani), Wild soybean(Bharath),etc and asked the farmers to preserve such crop varieties.

Dr.Pankaj Sood, Programme Coordinator, KVK highlighted major activities of his centre.

Drs.Kavita Sharma, Shakuntala Rahi, Dinesh Yadav, Laxmikant Sharma, Subhash and Rakesh Thakur also spoke about their respective specialization.Shri Kuldeep Chambial,Chariman,BDC  and Smt Kanta Devi,local Pardhan also expressed their  views.

An agriculture exhibition was also installed where the visiting farmers evinced keen interest. Some farmers also displayed seeds of traditional crop varieties. A large number of farmers and farm ladies from the local village and surrounding villages participated in the training programme.

A view of the dais and audience

 

 

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Last Updated: March 22, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/15 Dated:   March 22, 2016

Educate masses about scientific ways to conserve water: Dr.K.K.Katoch,Vice-Chancellor

 Palampur 22 March.  Dr. K.K. Katoch, Vice Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University, has asked the scientists to educate the masses about scientific ways to conserve water. He, as Chief Guest, was addressing scientists and students during World Water Day celebrations, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor said that it was imperative to popularize the concept of watershed management so as to conserve and efficiently use the water for irrigation and other uses. He emphasized that all stakeholders should be educated about the judicious use of water because only around two and a half percent fresh water was available on earth for irrigation and other uses and rest of the water occurred in oceans which was saline in nature. Dr.Katoch also spoke on the role of water in food security, nutritional security and poverty alleviation. He said that water should be stored for future use and rapidly depleting ground water should be regularly recharged. He said that everybody should adopt such habits which save water in our daily domestic activities.

Dr.G.S.Hira, former additional director of research at Punjab Agricultural University and a known water expert, delivered a special lecture highlighting the consequences of fast depleting ground water in food bowl states of the nation. He said that the planners should seriously think about the food security of the country as water table has alarmingly gone down in Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh which produce major cereals especially wheat and rice crops for the country. India was about to import 65 lakh tones of pulses whereas incentives should be given to farmers to produce pulses which require far less water than cereals. He also asked scientists to produce short duration high yielding crop varieties requiring less water.He also interacted with scientists.

Dr.Dinesh Badiyala, Dean, College of Agriculture said that the special lecture was organized as a part of golden jubilee year celebrations of his college. Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education said that farmers need to be educated about the importance of scientific use of irrigation water in different crops. Dr.S.P.Dixit, Head, Deptt of Soil Science , Dr.R.K.Gupta, Principal Scientist and Dr.Sanjay Kumar Sharma also expressed their views on the importance of water conservation.

The Chief Guest also gave certificates to the students who took part in soil science quiz to mark the occasion.

 

 

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Last Updated: March 18, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/14 Dated:   March 17, 2016

Audio CD on organic agriculture released at CSKHPAU

Palampur 17 March.  Dr. K.K. Katoch, Vice Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University, released an audio CD on organic agriculture, here today.

The CD of one hour recording consists of complete package on various aspects of organic farming by scientists of the Deptt. of Organic Agriculture. While appreciating the scientists for this maiden effort, the Vice-Chancellor expressed the hope that the CD would be of much use to the farming community of the State and beyond. Even the other stakeholders like officers form the State Departments of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, etc and general masses will be benefitted with the contents of the audio CD on organic agriculture. Dr.J.P.Saini, Head, Deptt of Organic Agriculture and his team  including Drs. Sant Parkash, Rameshwar, Punam, Neelam Bhardwaj, Alok Shamra were present during the CD releasing ceremony.

The CD has special lectures on organic nutrient and pest management, organic crop production, organic animal husbandry, certification procedure,etc. and will be available in the Agriculture Technology Management Centre of the University in near future.

Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education and Dr.Hirday Paul Singh, Jt. Director(Information & Public Relations) were also present on the occasion

 

 

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Last Updated: March 10, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/12 Dated:   March 10, 2016

The Vice-Chancellor distributes   bucks to farmers from remote areas of H.P.

Palampur 10 March. With an aim to improve Gaddi goat productivity in Himachal Pradesh, Dr. K.K. Katoch,Vice Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University, distributed twenty four  bucks to twenty four  selected migratory Gaddi goat breeders  from Bharmaour, Bara Bhangal, Shahpur, Bandla, Rakh, Bir, Holi, Kandi, etc. at Dr.G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences(COVAS), here today.

The farmers were provided bucks under the 'All India Co-ordinated Research Project on Goat Improvement' by the  Gaddi Field Unit. Dr.Katoch  interacted with the Gaddi goat farmers to know their problems and suggested them to spot out the male gaddi goats having higher growth rate so that they could be incorporated in the project for increasing the overall productivity of gaddi goats.  He also appreciated the efforts of Dr.P.K.Dogra, Principal Investigator and his team of scientist including Drs. Pankaj Sood, Shivani Katoch, Varun Sankhyan, Ankur Sharma, Sidharth Thakur and Parveen Sharma for their continued work in the far- flung areas of Himachal Pradesh.

Dr. P.K. Dogra told that this project was operational in 18 centres throughout the country with basic objective of improving goat productivity. Under the project, approximately 1000 migratory goats have been registered and were being monitored throughout the year by providing breeding, health care and nutritional inputs. The male kids being produced were subjected to primary selection and on the basis of higher growth rate were purchased from the farmers and further reared at Palampur centre up to the age of sexual maturity. Thereafter second stage of selection was  done and the finally selected breeding bucks were distributed to the migratory Gaddi goat farmers for breed improvement at the field level.  The farmers were quite satisfied with the working of the project and thanked the University for addressing their problems. Dr. SS Kanwar, Director of Research; Dr. R.K. Agnihori, Dean COVAS; Dr. SK Sharma ,Associate Director Research and Dr. Hirday Paul Singh, Joint Director(Information & Public Relations) were present on this occasion.

 

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Last Updated: March 09, 2016


Significant University Activities for the month of February 2016
MEDIA CELL

Key Highlights

 Research

 

Extension Education

 

Miscellaneous

 

Finance

 

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Last Updated: March 09, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/12 Dated: 8 March, 2016

International Women Day celebrated at CSKHPAU

Palampur 8 March. International Women Day was enthusiastically celebrated at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.  Ms.Shalini Agnihotri, ASP, Kangra, as Chief Guest, underlined that women should be respected each and every day. She asked the youngsters to take baby-steps for bigger positive changes in the society so that the country marches ahead in all spheres. She said that mistakes should be treated as learning experience and should never be repeated. Ms. Agnihotri, a former student of the university, recalled her studentship and offered to help all those aspirants who want to join police or other administrative services. She expressed the hope that the youngsters will come forward to shoulder the bigger responsibilities and make serous efforts to bring positivity in their surroundings.

Dr.Sumati Rekha Malhotra, Dean, College of Home Science, said that serious efforts should be made to bring gender equality in the society. Children should not be discriminated at home and should be made aware about the responsibilities. Drs Promila Kanwar and Sangita Sood also expressed their views. Some competitions were organized to mark the occasion.

Besides students and staff of the college, Dr R.K.Agnihotir, Dean, Dr.G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Dr.Jahnvi Shekhar, Students Welfare Officer, Dr.Yadvinder Singh Dhaliwal and Dr.Hirday Paul Singh, Joint Director((Information & Public Relations) also attended the function.

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Last Updated: March 08, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/10 Dated: 28 Feb. , 2016

Joint Technology Review & Dissemination Committee Meeting at CSKHPAU

Palampur 2 March. Joint Technology Review and Dissemination Committee Meeting of five major farm universities of the region was held at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.  Besides, the host university, the representatives of Panjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana; CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar; Dr.Y.S.Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Solan and Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi attended the meeting and shared the information about latest technologies developed in their respective institutes for  the welfare of farming community and to avoid duplication in research work.

According to Dr.S.S.Kanwar, Director of Research, who chaired the meeting, performance and adaptability in their respective places of already shared material in the form of seeds of cereals, pulses, vegetables, oilseed and planting material of fruit crops and forestry trees was discussed.

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Last Updated: February 28, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/10 Dated: 28 Feb., 2016

National Science Day at CSKHPAU

Vice-Chancellor Dr.K.K.Katoch asks youngsters to pursue science for the benefit of mankind

Palampur 28 February. National Science Day was enthusiastically celebrated at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.  Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor, as Chief Guest, recalled the contributions 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 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 theses sectors. He said that the period between the years 1895 to 1900 was considered a golden period for various scientific discoveries which ultimately proved a strong base for many future innovations and discoveries. He said that machines like JCB or traffic light management system, etc were used for the benefit of common man.

He told that his university was giving a boost to scientific temper by organizing inspire camps for the school children who were motivated to adopt science as a career. Around 2200 students from various schools of Himachal Pradesh have attended such camps. He also elaborated about the various innovations in the areas of agriculture and allied sciences and asked the students to pursue science for the benefit of mankind.

Dr.SPS Kushwaha, a well known scientist and retired dean from Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) delivered a key note address on remote sensing technology. He elaborated about the discoveries and innovations by ISRO in the areas of satellite imagery which have simplified the work of many departments. Mr.Krishan Gopal Butail, a leading tea planter told about the simple innovations which transformed his simple farming to a buzzing entrepreneurship. He emphasized the importance of ‘Make in India’  initiatives by the government.

Dr.S.S.Kanwar, Director of Research, underlined the theme of ‘Raise Public Appreciation for Scientific Issues for the Development of Nation.” Dr.Pawan Mehta, Dean, College of Agriculture also spoke on the importance of farm science.

 Some competitions were organized to mark the occasion.  Ms. Garima Pant from College of Home Science(COHS) was awarded first prize in poster making and second and third  prizes were bagged by  Messers  Gobind Garg  and Gulshan from Dr.GCN College of Veterinary & Animal Science(COVAS) . In skit competition,  Mr.Gaurav Bhalla and his team from  Dr.GCN COVA bagged first position , second position went to Mr.Sahil and team from COHS and third position was captured by  Mr.Sahil Guleria and team from College of Basic Sciences.

All the statutory officers, teaching and non teaching staff and students attend the National Science Day celebrations.

Director of Research welcoming Vice-Chancellor

A view of dais and audience

students receive prizes

 

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Last Updated: February 26, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/09 Dated: 26 Feb. , 2016

 

CSK H.P. Agriculture University starts selling organic vegetables through ATIC

 

Palampur 26 February. CSK H.P. Agriculture University today took an initiative to make available organic produce to the consumers. On the directions of  Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor, the Agricultural Technology Information Centre (ATIC) situated near the entrance of main gate of the university on Palampur-Baijnath road, have created a separate section for the organic produce of the university which is being made available at very reasonable rates. Initially,  the seasonal vegetables will be available which were being produced in the Deptt. of Organic Agriculture. Gradually more products will be added.

 

The Vice-Chancellor today visited the ATIC and inspected the functioning of the ATIC and advised that more products from various departments be added for the benefit of consumers. He also asked to popularize organic products, especially among the local residents who could easily purchase these from the ATIC. Mr.Manoj Kumar, Rgistrar; Dr.Aul, Director of Extension Education; Dr.J.P.Saini, Head, Deptt of Organic Agriculture and some other scientists were present during the visit of Vice-Chancellor to ATIC.


It will be worthwhile to mention that ATIC acts as a single window service to the farmers and consumers where all university farm produce and improved seeds and technology was available. High quality turmeric, organic tea, soy biscuits, soy nuts, vinegar, animal feed, mineral mixture, seeds of vegetables and other crops, farm literature, stationary  for trainings etc. was available in the ATIC, besides useful information about farming was provided to the farmers in person and on phone.

 

The university was very first in the country to establish the department of organic agriculture in the year 2009 and is considered a pioneer in research on different aspects of organic farming. The university organizes trainings to farm officers, scientists and farmers to acquaint them with various aspects of farming like preparation of different inputs like organic compost, bio pesticides, etc. The university will also organize a seminar on zero budget farming in the last week of April.

 

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Last Updated: February 15, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/08 Dated: 13 Feb. , 2016

Camp Regional Research Sub-station, Salooni(Chamba)

Shrimati Asha Kumari inaugurates a training programme at Salooni

Salooni (Chamba) 13 February. A  two days training programme for the farmers of the area was jointly organised by Regional Research Sub-station of CSK H.P. Agriculture University and Agricultural Technology Management Agency(ATMA), Chamba , here today,

Smt. Asha Kumari, former minister and local MLA, as Chief Guest asked the farming community to use modern scientific technology to increase their farm production and increase income. She said that the government initiated a large number of schemes and programmes for the benefit of farmers and they need to take advantage of such programmes. She also appreciated the efforts of Farm University and department of agriculture for doing commendable work to enhance farm production in the Salooni area where the farmers were generating a revenue to the tune of Rs. Twenty five crore annually by quality vegetable production. However, she asked the University to post vegetable specialists and other experts to help the farmers. She also underlined the importance of educating farmers in marketing, seed conservation of traditional varieties, etc.

While presiding over the function, Dr.K.K.Katoch,Vice-Chancellor, said that Chamba district has got lot of potential due to presence of  varied agro-climatic zones. As the farming community was using very low dose of fertilizers and chemicals so they were contributing to the society by producing safe food. He advocated protected cultivation, water conservation and protection of plant varieties. He said that as per the demand of the farming community through State Government and chief guest, the university will shortly post three scientists in its local research station  to cater to the farm needs of the district. He also announced to adopt Dhand village and informed that the scientists will educate farmers for marketing, etc.

Dr.Atul, Director Extension Education informed that the university was conducting a large number of trainings for the benefit of farming community.

Dr.Hans Raj, Subject Matter Specialist, informed about various activities of  the Deptt of  Agriculture.Dr.Anil Kumar, Incharge of Regional Research Sub-station,Sh Dharam Singh Pathania, Chairman, Zila Parishad also expressed their views.

Mohinder Singh, Chairman, Block Development Samiti and Kamal Thakur, Vice-Chairman, BDC,Salooni,  Smt. Rekha Thakur, Pardhan, local Panchayat, and a large number of  farmers from Salooni and surrounding villages were present in the inaugural ceremony of the training programme.Chief Guest Smt Asha Kumari also honoured a dozen progressive farmers.

A view of the dais and audience

 

 

 

 

Last Updated: February 02, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/07 Dated: 1 Feb 2016

 

COA organizes a lecture on Biotechnology

 

Palampur 1 February. Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University has appreciated the role of biotechnology in agriculture. He, as Chief Guest, was addressing a galaxy of farm scientists and students at the College of Agriculture (COA), here today.

The Vice-Chancellor said that biotechnology has been able to give a push in crop production through various innovative techniques. He cited the examples of two crop varieties Pusa Jai Kisan in case of Sarson and Phule Savitri in case of sugarcane for increased production. He said that tissue culture technology has helped in germplasm conservation of endangered plant species. 

T.R.Sharma, Director, National Research Center on Plant Biotechnology, an alumnus of the COA, in his special lecture on Agricultural Biotechnology: From Genome to Gene and Genotype" highlighted importance of genomics in discovering genes of agronomic importance and their utilization in developing high yielding crop varieties citing a specific example of rice blast resistance gene. He also informed achievements of his centre.
Dr.S.S.Kanwar, Director of Research, highlighted the achievements of the university in the area of biotechnology. Dr.P.K.Mehta, Dean, COA said that his college was celebrating its Golden Jubilee Year and this lecture was part of the series of lectures to mark the occasion.

Scientist and postgraduate students were present during the lecture.

 

 

 

 

Last Updated: January 27, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/07 Dated: 27Jan , 2016

            Glimpses of Republic Day Celebrations in the University

Republic Day was celebrated enthusiastically in the University. Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor unfurled the National Flag and took salute form the NCC contingent. He also addressed the staff and appreciated the Students’ Welfare Organization for organizing the function and NCC cadets for the impressive parade. Some glimpses of the Republic Day celebrations in the University:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Last Updated: January 23, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/06Dated: 23 Jan , 2016

 

Media Visit  to the Deptt of Veterinary Gynecology & Obstetrics

CSKHPAU scientists take lead in India in laparoscopic diagnosis of reproductive problems in cows

 

Palampur 23 January. The Media Cell organized a visit to the Department of Veterinary Gynecology & Obstetrics, Dr. G.C.Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences,CSK H.P. Agriculture University , here  today. Dr. Navneet Vasishta, Professor and Head; Dr. Madhumeet Singh, Professor; Drs. Amit Sharma and r. Pravesh Kumar, both Assistant Professor interacted with reporters and answered to their various questions.

The scientists told the visiting reporters about their major activities. It was informed that laparoscopic diagnosis of reproductive problems in cows has been started for the first time in India by this department. This latest work started in the department is providing advanced information of abnormalities of reproductive system of cows. Work has been done successfully for the first time in country to diagnose patency of fallopian tubes of cows with laparoscope, which was otherwise difficult to be diagnosed.

It was informed that being a clinical department, this department provides clinical facilities to the farmers of Himachal Pradesh in the areas of Female Infertility, Obstetrics and Andrology.

This department has bagged 10 research projects in the  last five  years worth 330.5 lac (3.305 crore) rupees. The main emphasis of research has been to study the reproductive problems of cows and buffaloes reared by farmers of Himachal Pradesh and also of abandoned cows. The area of these studies has been entire State with an aim to conduct research on epidemiology, etiology, management and suggesting curative measures for various reproductive disorders prevalent in different agro climatic zones of the State.

During a study by this department under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna (RKVY) project on reproductive status of abandoned cows maintained in various Gosadans and possibilities of treating those, 55% had reproductive problems. Further it was found that out of allreproductive problems in abandoned cows, 50.00% were caused by technical errors committed by personals handling genitalia, of which only 13% were treatable. Whereas, 40% reproductive problems in these abandoned cows were suspected to be due to managerial  problems like poor feeding by owner. However, a much higher post treatment recovery rate of 44% was recorded in these cows with managerial problems. Irrespective of the reasons, overall treatable percentage of various reproductive ailments was 23%.  

As this study indicated that a very high incidence of genital tract ailments in abandoned cows was associated with injuries/technical errorsattributed to the faulty Artificial Insemination (AI) technique, there was felt a need to improve the skill of personnel involved in AI programme of the state. As majority of AI is performed by Veterinary Pharmacists due to the shortage of doctors in state Animal Husbandry Department, it was decided to impart refresher training to working Veterinary Pharmacists. Overall 729 pharmacists were refreshed in 31 refresher training between years 2012 and 2014.

It was also informed that the department was rendering specialized services to the farmers of the State for treatment of various reproductive disorders. Since year 2013, scientists from department have organized 125 infertility treatment camps under RKVY project in all parts of Himachal Pradesh, including 32 camps in tribal areas of Pangi, Bharmour, Lahaul & Spiti and Kinnaur and also some very remote locations like trans-giri villages of Sirmour, Dodra-Kwar (Shimla), Janjehli (Mandi), Barsheni (Kullu) and Kihar (Chamba) etc. More than 2500 animals with reproductive ailments have been examined and treated in these camps. Blood samples and uterine discharge samples have been collected from around 800 animals for detailed investigations of various diseases. All diagnostic facilities including hormonal, mineral and biochemical estimations in blood and also microbiological investigations of uterine discharge exist in the department.These camps will be continued in future also.

A very positive result of pharmacist trainings imparted has emerged from the data generated from infertility camps. In majority of cows, repeat breeding in general and endometritis in particular are responsible for animals not conceiving and mainly caused by inefficient inseminators. While comparing data of camps organized in years 2013 and 2014, with the camps organized in 2015, it was found that incidence of repeat breeding has decreased by 10% and endometritis alone has decreased by 7%. This decrease can be attributed to improved technical skills of pharmacists imparted refresher training. There is a hope that if the same trend of improvement continues then the number of cows abandoned by owners due to reproductive problems may also decrease.

Being a very important Sheep breed of Himachal Pradesh, reproductive behavior and genital disease pattern in Gaddi sheep has been studied and documented by the department under RKVY. Presently department is also working on another research project to analysis obstetrical interventions in animals suffering from difficult birth in different parts of Himachal Pradesh under same project. 

Dr.S.K.Sharma, officiating Dean of the College; Dr. Hirday Paul Singh, Joint Director(Information & Public Relations) and post graduate students of the department were present during the Media Visit.

 

Pic captions: A view of laparoscopic diagnosis facility and Scientists interacting with Media

 

 

 

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Last Updated: January 20, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/05 Dated:19 Jan , 2016

 

CSKHPAU to help students and young farmers in taking advantage of Start-up India, Stand-up India initiatives

 

Palampur 19 January. "Each professor must motivate a student to take advantage of Start-up India and Stand- up India initiatives of the Govt. of India", said Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor while addressing the statutory officers, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor said that the purpose of this initiative was to ignite the entrepreneurship among the youth of our country with a large number of incentives like registration through an App, self certification, tax relief, patent protection, etc. and there were nineteen plans to choose. There was a budget of Rs.Ten thousand crore and seven research parks will be developed with an outlay of  Rs. hundred crore for each park.  He asked the Director of Research to screen university research work for innovations and asked the Deans to interact with senior students and encourage them to identify the innovations for Start- ups. Similarly the Director of Extension Education can identify the young farmers and livestock keepers for Start- ups in areas like marketing of organic produce as there were thirty thousand farmers engaged in organic farming but were finding it difficult to market their produce. There were many enterprises like production of quality planting material, value addition and processing, use of underutilized fibres, organic dyes, Mushroom processing unit , raising of rainbow trout in lower belt,  high quality animal production and product development,  bee products other than honey like bee-venom; bee wax, royal jelly, etc. which can be taken up by the youngsters.

He said that the Human Resource Development and Placement Cell of the university can train its students in certain areas to take advantage of these initiatives. The university may consider gifting some of its technologies to its students to take advantage of Start-up India and Stand-up India programmes. 

All Deans, Directors and other statutory officers took part in the meeting.

 

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Last Updated: January 19, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

  QSD/MC/04 Dated:13 Jan , 2016

 

Vice-Chancellor Dr.K.K.Katoch inaugurates training on Personality Development

 

Palampur 13 January. Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, inaugurated a two days training programme on personality development for the students at College of Agriculture, here today.

Stressing the importance of 'healthy body, healthy mind'; the Vice-Chancellor advised the students to effectively manage their time to improve their personality and imbibe good qualities like hard work, consistency, never give up attitude, focus and determination. He said that one must not lose self confidence and should always have a positive attitude to manage day to day stress in life. He also wanted that more  students should excel in national level competitions to bring name and fame to the university. He informed that he would like to get feedback from all the participating  students after the training programme.

Dr.Jahnvi Shekhar, Students' Welfare Officer, told that to sharpen the communication and other skills, two days training for personality development has been organised by inviting experts from Bangalore and final year students from all the constituent colleges will be trained in three batches. He expressed the hope that the training will hone efficiency of students to manage their personal and professional life.

Dr.P.K.Mehta,Dean, College of Agriculture, said that such trainings were helpful to the students to face interviews with added confidence. He complimented the Human Resource Development and Placement Cell of the Students' Welfare Organisation for conducting the training.

Dr.Ravinder Singh Chandel, Programme Director, Human Resource Development and Placement Cell, informed that 86 students from the College of Agriculture and College of Home Science were taking part in the programme. A session for the teachers has also been planned.

Ms.Radha, Chief Executive Officer and trainer from Smart Series Bangalore and Dr.Hirday Paul Singh, Joint Director (Information & Public Relations) attended the inaugural ceremony.

 

 

 A view of the dais and participants

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Last Updated: January 11, 2016

Media Cell

Press Release

 

CSKHPAU scientists issue advisory for the control of yellow rust in wheat crop

 

Palampur 8 January. The scientists of CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University have advised the farmers to visit their wheat fields regularly and observe the crop critically for the appearance of   yellow rust in the form of yellow coloured pustules and powdery mass in stripes on leaves, especially under trees and in moist pockets. They have stressed that those farmers who have sown wheat varieties HD 2967 and HD 3086 should be more vigilant for the appearance of this disease. Further, the scientists have advised that the farmers must spray their crop with propiconazole 25 EC (Tilt 25 EC or Shine 25 EC) by making a solution of 30 ml fungicide in 30 litre  water or tabuconazole @ 0.05% by making a solution of 15 ml fungicide in 30 litre of water adding one spoon of sticker or NIRMA powder or  Lassi (traditional butter milk) and spraying per Kanal immediately after seeing the symptoms and repeat it after 15 days.

 

 

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Last Updated: January 6, 2016

Media Cell

No. QSD/MC/02 Dated: 6 Jan , 2016

Press Release

 

Vice-Chancellor Dr.K.K.Katoch inaugurates inter-college Youth Festival

 

Palampur 6 January. Dr.K.K.Katoch, Vice-Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, inaugurated an inter-college youth festival here today.

He said that such events provided a platform for the students to express their creativity, which was a must to excel in life. He suggested that a competition of 'Akshar Shalokam' be added to the events where the students may find and recite 'shaloka' related to agriculture,, livestock, rural life, etc. This will generate interest of students in our old age rich literature and help in reviving glory of our enriched past. The Vice-Chancellor said that the youth was full of energy which needed channelization for the development of country. He advised the students and participants to work hard and reap the dividends later.

Dr.Jahnvi Shekhar, Students' Welfare Officer, told that   around 150 students from four constituent colleges will be taking part in seventeen items like  Music, Dances, Theatre and Literary competitions.

Earlier the Vice-Chancellor lit the lamp and declared the youth festival open. The ceremony started by playing the University Anthem followed by Sarswati Vandna by the girl students.

All the statutory officers, heads, teaching and non-teaching staff and students attended the inaugural ceremony.

 

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Last Updated: January 1, 2016


New Year address by the Vice-Chancellor

 

Dr.K.K.Katoch exhorts staff to help the farmers to Double the Income

 

Palampur 1 January. Dr.K.K.Katoch,Vice-Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University has  exhorted the staff to work on the  concept  of  'Double the Income(DTI)'  in addition to discharging their mandatory duties of teaching, research and extension education. He was addressing the university staff on the occasion of New Year.

The Vice-Chancellor told that despite tremendous financial support from the State Govt, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and other funding agencies, the university need to increase its domestic income and also help in doubling the income of farming community. He asked the Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs)and other units to submit projects like seed production programme, value addition in farm produce, beekeeping, etc.

He told that a mega State level Kisan Mela will be organized in mid-March where progressive farmers will share their success stories and interact with scientists. Another workshop on zero budget farming also known as natural farming will be held in end April. He expressed his satisfaction over successful organization of convocation and informed that online admission process has been successful and will be improved further this year. He told that construction work on Rs. Five crore girls' hostel has started as the number of girl students was increasing every year. It will house 108 girls including 24 foreign students. He appreciated the students for their magnificent performance in various national level competitions and attributed it to the quality teaching in the university. Video-conferencing facility has been created for conducting viva-voce examination where experts from all over the world will be available to conduct the examination.

He also appreciated the good research work and asked the scientists to work on cutting edge technologies and include risk factor in their research proposals. Effort has been made to address the needs of farmers and farming in research topics of post graduate students also . He also appreciated the extension education activities and told that a special task force on protected cultivation has been formed to repair poly houses and train two farmers from each block of the State on these aspects. He said that veterinary scientists were organizing clinical camps in remote and less accessible areas and the Veterinary Emergency Response Unit was attending to emergencies. Last year, over fifteen thousand farmers participated in 515 trainings and around 6000 farmers visited the University and KVKs

The Vice-Chancellor asked the staff to work with dedication for the welfare of farming community of the state. All the statutory officers, heads of departments, teaching and non-teaching employees and post graduate students attended the programme in the university auditorium.

 

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