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CSK H. P. Agricultural University, Palampur 176062

 

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Last Updated: October 10, 2017

 

CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur

Significant University Activities for the month of  September 2017

 

Key Highlights

A. His Excellency the Governor presides over the Convocation

 

Research

A. Research Project sanctioned and submitted

 

Extension Education

A. Trainings and Demonstrations to the farmers

522 clinical cases were diagnosed and  treated in veterinary clinics and  295  samples were also analyzed.

Around  759 farmers from various parts of the State visited University HQ and KVKs for technical guidance.

 

Miscellaneous

Dr GCN COVAS

Rs. 21,11,397 

College of Agriculture

Rs. 3, 22,429

Directorate of Extension Education

Rs. 9,09,400

Total

Rs. 33,43,226

 

 

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Last Updated: October 07, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/173 Dated: October 07, 2017

 

Press Release 

 

 Training course on Micro irrigation and fertigation by the Dept of Soil Science

 

Palampur 7 October. A ten days training course on Micro irrigation and fertigation technology under open and protected conditions began at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.In this Indian Council of Agricultural Research sponsored short training , the participants will be trained in estimation of micro irrigation based water requirement, fertigation scheduling for various crops, recent advances in farm machinery and irrigation systems , prescription based fertigation schedule for enhancing water and nutrient use  efficiency, adaptability and suitability of micro irrigation system and fertigation under organic and zero budget farming system, etc.

Around two dozen scientists from various agricultural universities and institutes are taking part in the short training which was inaugurated by Dr.J.C.Rana, a former director of agriculture, H.P.  He asked trainees to share their knowledge with each other and help percolate the micro irrigation technology among farming community. Dr.P.K.Mehta, Dean, College of Agriculture, said that concepts and techniques of flood irrigation to micro irrigation technology have traversed technological paths in the last four decades. Dr.S.P.Dixit , Head, Deptt of Soil Science; Dr Sanjiv Sandal, Course Director and Dr.Narinder Sankhyan, Course  Coordinator also spoke on the importance of short course for enhancing  crop production. The university scientists took part in the inaugural ceremony.

 

 

 

 

 

Last Updated: October 03, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/172 Dated: October 03, 2017

 

CSKHPAU is ragging free for the last nine years: Prof. A.K.Sarial , Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 3 October. "Let the rich legacy of ragging free university continue with mutual affection and respect among new entrant juniors and senior students", advised Prof. Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor while chairing a University level anti-ragging committee meeting at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor said that it was a matter of great satisfaction that his university has remained ragging free for the last nine years and he will ensure that this excellent tradition continues in the current academic session also. Prof Sarial told that all measures have been taken to prevent ragging in the University. He elaborated 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.

He also got first hand information from the student and parent members and expressed his happiness that there was no adverse feedback about the incidents of ragging. He also advised the students to interact regularly with their teachers and develop their personality availing high quality facilities at the campus, besides excelling in their academic pursuits.

Shri Satish Kumar Sharma, HAS, Registrar while welcoming all the members informed about the laws concerning ragging and told that anti-ragging provisions have been widely circulated among the students.

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

 

 

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Last Updated: September 22, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/160 Dated: September 22, 2017

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

Palampur 22 September.  Inter-college sports competitions began  at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

Professor Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, while inaugurating the sports competitions, said that sports were an integral part of the academic system for the students. Besides, sports provide an opportunity for the overall development of personality and keep one physically fit and mentally alert. The Vice-Chancellor said that annual sports event provide a platform where the students can exhibit their talent and stamina. Sports also help in developing leadership qualities, teach discipline and cultivate mutual understanding and brotherhood. He unfurled the university flag, took the salute from the teams and also interacted with team members of the inaugural match.

Dr.A.K. Goel, Students' Welfare Officer, informed that in six days events, forty four teams comprising around 560 students from four constituent colleges will be taking part in six sports competitions like Basketball, Badminton, Volleyball, Football, Table tennis and chess. Statutory officers, teachers, and students were present in a large number during the inaugural ceremony of the Inter-college sports competitions.

 

 

Vice-Chancellor unfurling the University flag

 

Vice-Chancellor taking salute from the teams and a view of  spectators

 

 

 

 

Vice-Chancellor with the basketball teams of College of Basic Science and College of Home Science during the inaugural match

 

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Last Updated: September 20, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/159 Dated: September 20, 2017

 

CSKHPAU notifies four  percent enhanced DA to its staff and pensioners  

Palampur 20 September. CSK H.P. Agriculture University has enhanced the rate of Dearness Allowance (DA) by four percent from the existing rate of 130 per cent to 134 per cent with effect from 1 January, 2017 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   shall be paid  in cash with the salary  of September   payable  in October  and arrears  with effect from  January  to August , 2017 shall be credited in the GPF account of the  employees depending upon the availability of funds. The University has also enhanced Dearness Relief (DR) to its pensioners and family pensioners from existing rate of 130 percent to 134 percent with effect from January 2017 and it will be paid with pension and family pension for the month of September payable in October 2017. The arrears accrued on account of DR with effect from January to August, 2017 will be released on the availability of funds.

Prof. A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, has thanked the Government of Himachal Pradesh for providing funds to the University from time to time. It will be worthwhile to mention that the University had enhanced the rate of Dearness Allowance by three percent with effect from 1 July, 2016 in respect of the employees of the University in August, last year. The University has also granted Interim Relief at the rate of four percent of the basic pay to its regular employees and pensioners with effect from 1 August this year and Interim Relief at the rate of five percent of the basic pay to its regular employees and pensioners in August, 2016.

 

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Last Updated: August 22, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

Four  percent Interim Relief to CSKHPAU employees and pensioners

Palampur 22 August.  CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University has granted second Interim Relief at the rate of four percent of the basic pay to its regular employees with effect from 1 August on the analogy of H.P. Government. The University has also granted second interim relief at the rate of four 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. It will be worthwhile to mention that the University had granted  first Interim Relief at the rate of five percent of the basic pay to its regular employees and pensioners in August, last year.

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: August 17, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/158 Dated: August 17, 2017

 

Resolve economic disparity by simple planning and efficient execution: Shri Shanta Kumar

 

Palampur 17 August. A two days  "Interactive meet of comptrollers of state agricultural universities, deemed universities, central universities and central agricultural universities" was inaugurated at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

 

Shri Shanta Kumar, Member Parliament and former Chief Minister, H.P. and former Union Minister, in his inaugural address, said that farming was a backbone of Indian economy as around seventy percent population was directly or indirectly engaged in farming. He  said that financial management must keep in mind the needs of the nation for proper planning and effective implementation. He informed  that economy of India was growing at a faster rate but still 26 crore people were living below poverty line  and most of the hungry people live here. "So what sort of progress we have made?" asked Shri Shanta Kumar and asked the finance officers to resolve economic disparity by keeping all issues in mind.

 

Shri Shanta Kumar said that alarming number of suicides by the farmers was a serious cause of concern. He asked all participants to deliberate on the issues as it was a challenge to be resolved by the collective efforts of all.

 

 Dr.N.S.Rathore, Deputy Director General, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), informed that a large number of reforms have been implemented in ICAR and farm institutions should implement these at the earliest for the benefit of students and farmers. He told that there were only seventy thousand students studying agriculture in 75 farm universities and institutions. India has made great strides in total agricultural production.

 

Since accreditation and ranking of agricultural institutions have been initiated so the future grants will be based on performance by such institutions. He congratulated Vice-Chancellor Prof A.K.Sarial for attaining first position in the country by the students of his university in Junior and Senior Research fellowship examinations by the ICAR.

Shri S.K.Singh, IAS, Additional Secretary-cum Financial Advisor, ICAR, said that the comptrollers were key functionaries to implement ICAR schemes in the farm universities and institutions. He said that  national agricultural research system was a dynamic system supporting state agricultural universities through All India Coordinated Research Projects, Krishi Vigyan Kendras,  infrastructure  support, etc and citizens have right to know about the functioning of such institutions. He said that time has come to maximize internal resources by the autonomous institutions and spend more money on core research issues.

 

Prof Ashok  Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, said that his university was a leading farm university among  all hill and mountainous region farm varsities in the country. He also informed about various achievements in the areas of academics, research and extension education. He told that 182 students have cleared various national level prestigious examinations this year.  He thanked ICAR and Govt. of Himachal Pradesh for the financial support .He assured that his university will continue to improve its working in the mandated areas for the benefit of farmers and students. The Vice-Chancellor said that declaration of agriculture as a professional subject is a major reform by the ICAR which will benefit the students.

 

Dr.M.B Chetti and Dr.P.S.Pandey, both  Assistant Director Generals, ICAR told that the purpose of the meet was to devise a mechanism for funding and monitoring of financial support extended by ICAR to these institutions under the scheme "Strengthening and Development of Higher Agricultural Education in India".  The participants will be deliberating on several issues pertaining to proper and timely submission of demand for grants, project proposals, student details, annual reports of various components, audit utilization certificates, etc. They told that through-out the country, there was craze among students for farm education as rate of employability was excellent.

Shri B.K.Verma, Comptroller of the host university, told that around 70 comptrollers representing various SAUs are taking part   from these institutions spread across the country. Dr.S.K.Chauhan, Nodal Officer, ICAR nodal cell of the university, also expressed his views.

 

University officers, staff and students also attended the inaugural ceremony.

 

 

Dignitaries on the dais and audience

 

Chief Guest Sh. Shanta Kumar ji lightening the lamp

 

         

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Last Updated: August 16, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/157 Dated: August 15, 2017

Independence Day was celebrated enthusiastically at CSKHPAU

 Palampur 15 August. Independence Day was celebrated enthusiastically and with fervor at CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya today. Prof Ashok Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, unfurled the National Flag and took salute from the NCC contingent. He also inspected the impressive parade by NCC cadets. The Vice-Chancellor, in his address to the university staff and students, recalled the contributions of freedom fighters. He also enumerated the achievements of the country and state. He said that the hard working farming community has enabled Himachal Pradesh to receive National level 'Krishi Karman' award for the last three years and the university has also played a major role in agricultural development in the State. Prof Ashok Sarial said that the record number of students of CSKHPAU have cleared JRF,SRF and NET conducted by the ICAR. The hard working students and dedicated teachers deserve appreciation for the magnificent results. He also appreciated the good work in the areas of Research and Extension Education. The Vice-Chancellor exhorted all staff to rededicate for the socio-economic betterment of farming community of Himachal Pradesh.

Er A.K.Goel, Students' Welfare Officer, Dr Ankur Sharma, NCC Officer, university statutory  officers, teaching and non-teaching staff, students and family members of staff were present during the celebrations.

 Independence Day celebrations at CSKHPAU Palampur 176062

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Last Updated: August 10, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/156 Dated: August 10, 2017

 

Van Mahotsav celebrated enthusiastically at CSKHPAU 

Palampur 10 August. Van Mahotsav was celebrated enthusiastically at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

Prof. A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, planted a sapling of Golden Rain Tree near administrative block and first lady of the University, Dr. (Mrs) Sindhu Sareen  also planted a sapling of this ornamental tree. The University staff and students planted 280 saplings of Golden Rain Tree and Silver Oak to celebrate the occasion.

Prof. A.K.Sarial while interacting with the students and staff said that trees were an integral part of human life that support mankind right from birth by providing clean air and have multiple uses from the root to fruit. He said that Van Mahotsav was a festival and should be celebrated in that very spirit making people aware about the benefits of trees and other plants. He also spoke on the importance of environment protection and urgent need to reduce the impact of global warming. The Vice-Chancellor  said that after plantation, saplings also need due care and protection and expressed the hope that all trees will grow to give a beautiful ambiance in the upcoming park in the University. .

Dr.R.S.Jamwal, Director of Research, said that tree plantation drives during Van Mahotsav helps in providing alternative  sources of fuel, fodder, soil conservation, beautification, etc.

Dr Suresh Upadhyay, Head, Deptt of Horticulture & Agroforestry thanked the Vice-Chancellor and other participants of  Van Mahotsav.

Mr.K.K.S Jamwal, Chief Manager, State Bank of India and his team arranged refreshments on the occasion.  Statutory officers, teachers, non-teaching staff and students  were present on the occasion and actively planted trees during Van Mahotsav.

 

Vice-Chancellor Prof A.K.Sarial and Dr. Mrs Sindhu Saryal planting saplings  of  Golden Rain Tree  tree on the occasion of Van Mahotsav.

 

 

 

Vice-Chancellor addressing the participants and plantation drive alongside the upcoming park near Admn. Block

 

 

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Last Updated: August 08, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/155 Dated: August 08, 2017

101 brilliant students bring laurels to the alma mater

A record number of students from CSKHPAU clear JRF and SRF examinations

Palampur 8  August. Ninety one undergraduate and post graduate students of CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University have qualified Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) examinations conducted by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and nine students have qualified Agri-management examinations by other national management institutes, recently.  

Thirty eight students from Dr GCN College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences (COVAS), thirty six students from the College of Agriculture (COA) and two students from the College of Home Science have qualified JRF examination this year. Fifteen students from COA qualified prestigious SRF examination for doing Ph D from different institutions. Moreover, nine students from the COA have qualified Agri-management examinations also. One student has joined the Indian Army.

Among the COVAS students who have qualified JRF examination, Mr. Rahul Kumar and Renu Chauhan got 1st and 8th all India rank (SC) respectively and Ms Pallavi Chauhan and Mr. Arvind Negi  got 3rd and 9th all India rank  (ST ) respectively. Mr. Abhinav Rana got 14th all India rank (General) in veterinary science stream whereas among COA students, Mr.Avneesh Prashar, Mr Niraj Guleria and Mr Karan Bhandari secured 1st, 2nd and 5th rank in their respective  agricultural streams. Most of the students after qualifying JRF and SRF have joined prominent national institutes like National Dairy Research Institute, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, National Academy of Agricultural Research Management, National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management, Punjab Agricultural University, Haryana Agricultural University etc. for their higher studies.

It will be worthwhile to mention that sixty one post graduate students of the University had qualified the National Eligibility Test (NET) conducted by the ICAR and UGC, this year.

 Since the inception of the University in the year 1978, this is the highest number of students who have been able to qualify these important national level examinations namely JRF, SRF and NET.

Prof. A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, has conveyed his appreciation to the teachers and congratulated the successful students. He said that it will enhance the image of the university at the national level as it was a strong indicator of high academic standards in terms of quality education imparted by the dedicated faculty. He also attributed this success to the hard work by the candidates and gave credit to the free coaching classes started after his joining as Vice-Chancellor in August last year, for preparing the students for such competitive examinations.

In yet other feat, Ms Annu Verma, a Ph.D. student, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, have bagged a financial support of Rs. Five lakh and fellowship of Rs thirty thousand per month for duration of three years from the Department of Science and Technology, Union Ministry of Science and Technology, to conduct research on cold stress tolerance in chickpea. This fellowship is the highest fellowship amount received by any Ph.D. student of the University. Ms Pallavi Verma, M.Sc. student and   Ms. Ruhi Chauhan, Ph.D scholar from this department have bagged second and third best poster award in an International conference held at Bengaluru.

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Last Updated: August 02, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/153 Dated: August 02, 2017

Efforts initiated to harness the potential of alumni to strengthen the university: Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor

Palampur 2  August. A possibility for research collaboration between South Dakota State University (SDSU), Brookings, USA and CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University was discussed in detail, here today. Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor of CSKHPAU, said that efforts have been initiated to harness the potential of alumni to strengthen the university and offer by a former student Dr Sandeep Kumar,Assistant Professor, SDSU was a step towards this direction. He said that dedication of students and motivation and inspiration by teachers can work wonders for shaping the future of youth. He said that institutions were not merely buildings but all those who have love and affection for their alma mater can enliven such institutions by helping them in various manners. The Vice-Chancellor also elaborated about the GRE, TOFEL, etc which were basic steps to join foreign universities. He said that capable students and scientists with quality work can join top foreign farm universities but then they need to be independent in their working and yield results. Prof Sarial also asked the students to put in hard work to brighten their prospects. He asked the students to help the university when they pass out as alumni have an emotional bonding with their alma mater. Many of the top world universities have endowment fund funded by former students to the tune of one third of their total budget. He hoped many staff and former students of his university will come forward to have an endowment fund for CSKHPAU.  He also asked the university officers to help build the image of the university and improve communication skills of the students.

The Vice-Chancellor appreciated the teachers for preparing the students who have been able to give spectacular performance in various competitive examinations at national level this year..

Dr.P.K.Mehta, Dean College of Agriculture, said that a large number of the alumni of the university were occupying top positions in different institutions that could help the students in academics and other spheres. He appreciated the college teachers for their earnest efforts in guiding the students who could get many junior research fellowships this year. Dr R.S.Jamwal, Director of Research, said that the students and scientists need to seize the potential  opportunity offered by a former student Dr Sandeep Kumar. He asked them to frame research proposals for collaboration with SDSU.

Dr Sandeep Kumar, Assistant Professor, SDSU, who is an alumnus of CSKHPAU, while elaborating about the areas of collaboration, informed that the students and staff can compete for  the positions of   graduate research assistantships, post doctoral fellowships and visiting scientists to his university and also gave  requirements to avail these positions. He detailed about the research projects where post graduates students may join him. He also interacted with the students.

University officers, heads, scientists and post graduate students from the departments of soil science and agronomy attended the experts lecture

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last Updated: July 27, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/151 Dated: July 27, 2017

 

High level meeting to discuss performance based audit of the CSKHPAU

Palampur 27 July.  A participatory meeting was held to discuss preliminary performance based audit report of CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today. Sh.R.M.Johri, Principal Accountant General, Himachal Pradesh, Shri Arvind Mehta, IAS,  Additional Chief Secretary(ACS), Govt. of Himachal Pradesh and Prof. Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor attended the meeting. Shri R.M. Johri   and his team apprised about the audit work done on various education, research and extension education activities in the university and sought clarifications before submission of the final report. Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice Chancellor and the university statutory officers apprised the team about various issues and Shri Arvind Mehta, ACS,  also gave some valuable suggestions. He said that a focused report will enable the university to improve its working. He also asked the university to strengthen its placement cell so that the former students are roped in for the betterment of university, especially placements of the students. He also suggested that a proposal be submitted for solar fencing of seed production farm to save the crop from wild animals. He assured that all surplus seed produced by the university will be purchased by the government. Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice- Chancellor informed about the effective steps taken in the recent past to strengthen various mandated activities which have started yielding positive results.

Shri Ravinder Singh, Deputy Accountant General, detailed about the audit work done so far. Shri B.K.Verma, Comptroller and Shri Satish Kumar Sharma, HAS, Registrar also answered to various issues raised by the team. Other statutory officers and heads of the departments also interacted with the team. Later, Shri Arvind Mehta, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, visited some of the departments and took stock of the on going activities in the university.

 

 

 

 

Last Updated: July 26, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/150 Dated: July 26, 2017

Dr.Sant Parkash, retired Principal Extension Specialist (Vegetable Science) continues to offer volunteer service to CSKHPAU

 

Palampur 26 July. A retired Principal Extension Specialist of CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University has set an example in serving the farming community selflessly which is worth emulating for others. Dr. Sant Parkash, who retired in April this year, continues to render his voluntary services to the university. Before his retirement, he was working as Principal Extension Specialist (Vegetable Science) in the Department of Organic Agriculture and was entrusted the responsibility of trainings and project execution.

Due to the paucity of staff, he was requested to extend his services which he gladly and voluntarily accepted. Dr.Sant Parkash served the university for thirty years in various capacities including  Vegetable Specialist at Krishi Vigyan Kendra(KVK), Kullu and also as  Programme Coordinator, KVK), Kangra  and KVK, Hamirpur where he gave his incredible services in popularizing scientific vegetable production among the farming community.

When most of the retirees suddenly disconnect with their employers then why he came forward to render the voluntary service?", to this query, Dr Sant Parkash says that he has a spirit and professional instinct to transfer the acquired rich scientific knowledge to the needy farmers who are still deficient in needful know-how about scientific farming which can definitely help in their socio economic up-liftment  and make it sustainable and profitable. He says that the young farmers and other unemployed young people should be attracted towards agri- entrepreneurship otherwise they will face hardship for their livelihood. Dr.J.P.Saini, Head, Department of Organic Agriculture, who requested Dr Sant Parkash to continue providing his expertise says that he helped in organizing a large number of training programmes at different platforms.  

Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, while appreciating Dr Sant Parkash for his selfless services, asked other highly trained and experienced retired scientists settled in the vicinity of the University to emulate him. The university will examine the possibility to utilize their services for adjustment against the positions of honorary professors and adjunct faculty for teaching and research programmes.

 

 

 

 

Last Updated: July 20, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/149 Dated: July 20, 2017

 

CSKHPAU to fill up 38 more posts of teachers: Vice-Chancellor Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial

Palampur 20 July. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University will fill up fifteen posts of teachers besides twenty five positions of non-teaching employees in the near future. This was disclosed by Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor said that the Board of Management (BOM) has approved filling up fourteen positions of Subject Matter Specialists (SMS) for Krishi Vigyan Kendras and one post of Assistant Professor in the discipline of veterinary gynecology and obstetrics in Dr.GCN College of Veterinary & Animal Science (COVAS).  "This will give impetus to extension education activities for the benefit of farming communities of the respective districts where KVKs were situated" opined Prof Sarial. He said that BOM has also approved filling up of twenty five posts of Junior Office Assistants.

Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, told that the university has also initiated the process to fill- up twenty three posts of teaching staff in the constituent colleges namely the College of Agriculture, College of Basic Sciences, College of Home Science and COVAS after approval of the qualifications by BOM as per UGC norms.

It is worthwhile to mention that the university has  filled up twenty one  posts of teachers in COVAS a couple of months back which have strengthened academic, research and extension education activities in the college which was facing  staff crunch and even Veterinary Council of India had taken serious note of it.

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Last Updated: July 10, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/148 Dated: July 10, 2017

 

Oath Taking Ceremony at COVAS

 

"Work for the empowerment of the farming community" advised Dr.N.S.Rathore, DDG, ICAR

 

Palampur 10 July. Oath taking ceremony for passing-out graduates of Dr.G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences (COVAS) was held at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

Dr.N.S.Rathore, Deputy Director General, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), as chief guest, asked the neo-graduates to work sincerely for the empowerment of the farming community. He said that among the  teaming 125 crore plus  population of the  India, there were hardly 0.36 percent  farm graduates so they have added responsibility for the rural population engaged in agriculture and allied avocations. Dr Rathore said that animal husbandry sector has played an important role in tremendous farm growth in the country  yet this sector has to remodel itself with the aim to double the income of farmers.

The Deputy Director General complimented the Vice-Chancellor Prof A.K,Sarial for his initiative for record breaking clearance of ICAR  Junior Research Fellowship examinations by his more than sixty students. He also distributed Internship Certificates to the neo-graduates and released some practical manuals.

Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, in his presidential remarks, while complimenting the graduates, their parents and teachers, appreciated the effective contribution by the COVAS in the areas of academics, research and extension work.He advised the graduates to prefer serving the farmers rather than looking for greener pastures as rural India needed their dedicated services. He also advised them to maintain a live link with their alma mater and help in creating a batchwise  endowment fund as the society had contributed for their professional attainment. The Vice-Chancellor expressed the hope that the students would continue to excel in their professional life.

Dr.Rajiv Kumar Agnihotri, Dean, COVAS, informed that 27th batch of graduates was passing out from his college. He administered oath of professional ethics to 55 graduates including 26 girls. So far, 740    graduates have passed-out since the establishment of the college three decades back. He also elaborated about major academic, research and extension education activities.

Drs. Mandeep Sharma and Pankaj Sood informed about the rigorous training of passing out graduates.

University officers, scientists and officers from the state department of animal husbandry also attended the oath taking ceremony.

 

A view of the dais

 

 

Students being administered oath of professional ethics by the Dean

 

The neo-graduates with the Chief Guest and Vice-Chancellor

 

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Last Updated: July 05, 2017

Media Cell

 

Significant University Activities for the month of  June 2017

 

Key Highlights

A. Vice-Chancellor's major engagements  

B. Workshops on Kharif Crops and Basmati Rice

 

Academics

A.     Students bring laurels to the University

 

Research

A. Research Projects sanctioned and submitted for funding

Extension Education

A.Trainings and Demonstrations to the farmers

Finance

A. Domestic Income

Dr GCN COVAS

Rs. 15,53,272  

College of Agriculture

Rs. 3,91,449   

Directorate of Extension Education

Rs. 4,58,399

Total

Rs.  24,03,120

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

 

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Last Updated: July 03, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/145 Dated: July 03, 2017

 

 

Vice-Chancellor Prof A.K.Sarial dedicates robotic vegetable grafting machine in the service of farming community of H.P.

 

Palampur 3 July.  CSK H.P. Agriculture University took lead among all 73 farm universities of the country by installing a robotic vegetable grafting machine today. Prof.A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, while dedicating the Grafting Machine Robot in the service of farming community of Himachal Pradesh at vegetable research farm told that high quality planting material of grafted seedlings will be produced for the farmers. He said that the machine can graft 600-800 plants per hour with 90 percent accuracy.

The Vice-Chancellor said that his university has taken lead in the country in initiating grafting of vegetables particularly tomato and capsicum, which are commercial off-season vegetable crops under poly house conditions in Himachal Pradesh. The university has initiated efforts for grafting by importing bacterial wilt and nematode resistant rootstocks of capsicum, chilli, brinjal and tomato from Taiwan for the purpose. The rootstocks have been multiplied under polyhouse conditions and various grafting methods are being evaluated to produce high quality planting material in tomato and capsicum for polyhouse cultivation. He expressed the hope that new facility will give a fillip in vegetable production under polyhouse and organic production systems. It will also give a boost to off-season vegetable production.

Prof Sarial told that with the increase in the acreage under protected conditions, the demand for resistant planting material will rise in the future. There are many vegetables having resistance and tolerance to major diseases and nematodes, but are poor in yield and quality. The only alternative under such situations will be the grafting of scions of desired varieties or hybrids into resistant rootstocks. He said that in organic cultivation of vegetables, grafting eliminates the use of chemicals in disease control. Because of these reasons    greenhouse growers and organic producers now require such techniques to maximize their profit.

The Vice-Chancellor said that the students of his university will be able to get hands- on training on the new machine and will be at advantage than students of other farm universities. He said that the university will collaborate with the state department of agriculture to extend new technology and make available grafted seedlings to the farming community of the state at nominal cost.

He appreciated the  efforts of Dr.Pardeep Kumar, Principal Investigator; Dr S.P.Sharma, a former Director of Research and Dr N.K.Pathania, a former Head of  Vegetable Crops and Floriculture department for initiating efforts six years back on the new technology and getting a research project, "Creation of innovative grafted transplant technology for potential vegetables under protected conditions" worth Rs. 95 lakh sanctioned under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna (RKVY) which culminated in the installation of robotic vegetable grafting machine.

Dr.R.S.Jamwal, Director of Research, informed that vegetable production and productivity is very high under protected environments as compared to open field conditions. But production under polyhouse conditions is very low as compared to national and international levels due to  lack of suitable varieties and hybrids resistant to bacterial wilt, nematodes and new races of pathogens and pests. Since complete soil sterilization for disease control can never be possible, grafting has become an essential technique for the production of crops grown repeatedly like fruit bearing vegetables in polyhouses. The major problems under protected conditions are bacterial wilt, emergence of new land races of pathogens, pests and nematodes which may cause complete crop failures.

Dr.P.K.Mehta, Dean, College of Agriculture, said that in India, grafting of vegetables is not common and no systematic research work on this aspect has been initiated. Only the Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bangalore has initiated work on grafting of vegetables. He said that new technology will help students under experiential learning programme. Dr.Atul. Director Extension Education said that all out efforts will be made to make the farmers aware about the new facility.

Dr Pardeep Kumar, Principal Investigator told that the university  got financial support for grafting of vegetable crops under Horticulture Technology Mission and RKVY  and the new robotic grafting machine worth Rs.27 lakh has been imported from South Korea. Statutory officers, scientists and students were present during the ceremony.

Pic caption: Prof A.K.Sarial,  Vice-Chancellor, inaugurating the new facility, dedicating the machine in the service of the farming community, visiting vegetable farm  and interacting with the press.

 

Prof A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, inaugurating the new facility

 

Dedicating the machine in the service of the farming community

 

Visiting vegetable farm

 

 

  Interacting with the press.

 

 

 

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Last Updated: June 27, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/144 Dated: June 27, 2017

 

Palampur 27 June. A team of veterinary scientists from Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, DGCN College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, in collaboration with H.P. state Animal Husbandry department, organized seven infertility camps in high altitude tribal villages of Himachal Pradesh at Sangla, Boning-Saring and Pooh of  District Kinnaur and Hurling, Tabo, Kibber and Kaza in Spiti valley. The camps were organized under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna (RKVY) project "Diagnosis and treatment of infertility in livestock through clinical camps in different parts of Himachal Pradesh".

Around 110 cows, yaks and their crosses suffering from infertility problems were examined and treated. Scientists collected uterine discharge samples for detailed diagnosis of bacterial and fungal uterine infections in repeat breeding cows. Blood samples were also collected from these animals to study minerals, biochemical and hormonal profile for detailed investigations. Also, serum samples were collected from aborted cows and yaks for further research. Data were also collected from the staff working in these institutions to analysis the status and causes of abortions and also regarding certain obstetrical interventions in bovines in these areas. Free medicines were distributed to the farmers.  

Prof. Madhumeet Singh, Professor and Head and team leader, informed that in an attempt to study the pattern of infertility and genital tract problems in bovines and their mapping in different geographical locations of  Himachal Pradesh, a total 197 infertility treatment camps have been organized by the university  in all parts of state in last three and a half years and treating more than 5000 cows, buffaloes and some yaks and their crosses.

Prof A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, has appreciated the scientists for serving the livestock keepers with dedication especially in remote and inaccessible villages by organising camps including more than 50 camps in tribal areas. He has asked them to continue organising such camps throughout the state in future also so that livestock keepers are benefitted at their door steps.

The team members included Dr. Madhumeet Singh, Dr. Pravesh Kumar  and Mr. Vijay Rana

Infertility treatment  camps in progress at different villages in tribal areas

 

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Last Updated: June 27, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/143 Dated: June 25, 2017

 

Vice-Chancellor Prof A.K.Sarial asks farmers to grow Basmati rice for export purpose

Palampur 25 June.  CSK H.P. Agriculture University held a Basmati Workshop at its Rice and Wheat Research Centre, Malan around 22 KMs from here today.

Prof.A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, while addressing over 150 farmers from different development blocks, officers from the state department of agriculture and scientists of the university said that since Basmati rice was an important export commodity so the farmers should be extra cautious to use only recommended dose of chemicals in this crop so as to fetch more revenue.

He told that India exports a major quantity of Basmati rice to Saudi Arabia, Iran, United Arab Emirates, Iraq and Kuwait. Geographical Indication (GI) registration has been provided for the area that has been growing basmati for over a hundred years and falls in Indo-Gangetic river basin. The areas of Basmati Rice production in India are in the states of J & K, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttarakhand and western Uttar Pradesh. He said that the GI recognition for the Basmati rice grown in North Indian states is expected to stabilize the price of basmati and boost exports.

Prof Sarial, who is pioneer in developing Pusa Basmati 1121, told that his university   has released two Basmati  varieties Kasturi and HPR 2612 (Palam Basmati 1) and asked farmers to grow organic Basmati for export purposes to earn more as it has a lot of demand in foreign lands. Prof . Sarial underlined the need for developing early maturing and blast resistant varieties of Basmati for areas above 1000 meter altitude . The cultivation of  Basmati  rice in H.P. was  confined to Palam valley and Nurpur areas of Kangra district, Paonta valley of Sirmour district,  Nalagarh in Solan district and Una areas. He said that in the recent past, Indian exports of basmati to the EU faced fungicide blockade due to presence of a chemical, tricyclazole which is used for treating rice against 'blast' in India. Hence, it was very important to use safe and suitable chemicals at appropriate crop stage in rice beyond which its use should be avoided to keep the produce safe from residues. He said that his university would be guiding the farmers for safe use of chemicals in crops.

Dr R.S.Jamwal, Director of Research, told that the old traditional Basmati lines which are late maturing are suitable for cultivation only below 1000 meter  altitude in the state. In Himachal Pradesh, Kangra and Mandi districts have the Basmati area in the state. During 2016,   the sowing of  Basmati was done in 8,000 ha area . He said that  more than 200 germplasm lines  have been collected from various institutions and these  lines will be evaluated for early maturity,  blast resistance, aroma  and improved quality traits. More than 100 crosses involving high yielding, blast resistance and early maturing lines have been attempted to create variability to select suitable plant types suitable for hill ecology of Himachal Pradesh.

Dr.Atul, Director of Extension Education also expressed his views. Dr. Daizy Basandrai, Scientists In charge of the centre told that workshop was organized in collaboration with Agricultural and Processed Food Product Export Development Authority (APEDA). She  also elaborated about  main varieties of Basmati rice like  Basmati 386, Basmati 217 , Ranbir Basmati, Karnal Local/ Taraori Basmati, Basmati 370, Type-3 (Dehradooni Basmati), Pusa Basmati-1, Pusa Basmati 1121, Punjab Basmati-1, Haryana Basmati- 1, Kasturi and Mahi Sugandha. Dr. Ritesh Sharma, Principal Scientist,  APEDA, informed that India was a leading exporter of the rice and the country has exported 40.45 lakh  MT of Basmati Rice to the world  worth  Rs. 22718 crore during the year 2015-16. An exhibition was also held and the farmers were provided technical information about basmati cultivation by Drs. Ajai Srivastva, Bhupinder Singh Mankotia and Sachin Upmanyu etc.

A view of the dais and participants

 

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Last Updated: June 22, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/141 Dated: June 21, 2017

 

CSK HPKV celebrates International Yoga Day

 

Palampur 21 June. The third Edition of International Yoga Divas was celebrated in CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ashok Kumar Sarial performed yoga along with university faculty, staff and students in Khel Parisar of the university.

         In his inaugural remarks, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sarial said that International Yoga Divas is being celebrated in about 121 countries across the world, today. He emphasized the importance of yoga and advised university fraternity to add yoga in their daily routine to have complete state of physical, mental, spiritual and social health.

        The event was organized by the Student Welfare Organization. Student Welfare Officer Dr. A.K. Goel thanked all present in the programme. All the statutory officers, Heads of departments, about 100 employees of the university, NCC and NSS students of various constituents' colleges of the university practised yoga and took an oath to add yoga in their daily life. About 200 NCC cadets of Senior Secondary School Ghuggar also practised yoga in the second session of yoga divas and took oath to adopt yoga in their daily routine.

         Ms. Basudha Katoch and Sneh Sood were the key trainers to conduct all the Yoga Programmes on International Yoga Divas organized by Student Welfare Organization.        

      

 

 

Celebration of International Yoga Divas in CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur  on 21June, 2017

 

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Last Updated: June 12, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/140 Dated: June 14, 2017

 

 

55 students from CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University qualify ICAR NET

 

Palampur 14 June.  Fifty five post graduate students of CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University have qualified the National Eligibility Test (NET) conducted by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and University Grants Commission (UGC). According to Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, since the inception of the University in the year 1978, this is the highest number of students who have been able to qualify  these prestigious national level examinations. While appreciating the teachers and congratulating the successful candidates, he said that the excellent performance of university students was a proof of high academic standards in terms of quality education imparted by the dedicated faculty. He told that free coaching classes for preparing the students for such competitive examinations have also played an important role in this grand success. The Vice-Chancellor has motivated the teachers to start coaching classes before and after office hours to prepare students for such competitive examinations after his joining as Vice-Chancellor in August, last year.

During this  year , more than 150 Post Graduate students  from all the four constituent colleges of the  university appeared in the ICAR NET and UGC eligibility test held in May and 53 candidates viz.  7 from soil Science, 4 from Plant Pathology, 6 from Entomology, 4 from Agricultural Economics, 16 from Crop Improvement, 8 from Agronomy, 4 from Vegetable Science, 2 from Chemistry and Bio-chemistry,  one from Veterinary Pathology and  one from  Veterinary Gynecology remained successful in clearing  the ICAR NET examination. In addition to it, two students from the Department of Food Science and Nutrition succeeded in UGC NET examination.

Further, 7  students  from the Department of Crop Improvement,  2 from the Entomology, 2 from the Soil Science  and one student from the  Plant Pathology have been declared eligible  for appearing in Agriculture Research Services for selection as scientists in various ICAR institutes.
Dr Ashwani Basandrai, Dean Post Graduate Studies, told that    the new initiative of the Vice-Chancellor for preparing the students for competitive examination has played a definite role in this thumbing success. The Vice-Chancellor has been regularly motivating and  inspiring the faculty and students for creating  healthy and competitive academic environment in the university. It is pertinent to mention that the Vice Chancellor himself is an outstanding academicians, a gold medalist from the premier Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi and recipient of best teacher award. Despite his busy schedule as  Vice-Chancellor, he is taking classes in the department of crop improvement and is guiding two post graduate students also.

 

 

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Last Updated: June 12, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/139 Dated: June 12, 2017

Farm Officers' Workshop on Kharif  Crops

Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial exhorts scientists & farm officers to increase income of farmers

Palampur 12 June. "The university scientists and farm officers should work hand in hand to help the farmers to double their income" stated Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor while inaugurating a State level Agriculture Officers' Workshop on Kharif crops at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor said that the university has developed need based modern scientific technology and the officers from the State Department of Agriculture should help in its effective transfer to the farmers so that yields increase substantially benefiting the farming community. He told that 20 such model enterprisers have been identified which can help farmers to double their income and asked farm offices to spread this message among stake holders. He also spoke on the importance of increasing the area under organic and natural farming as due to less use of fertilizers and other chemicals in the State it was not a tough task. Prof A.K.Sarial also discussed issues like crop diversification, pulse and oilseed production, importance of quality seed, quality control, decrease in post harvest losses and underlined the need of water conservation.  He said that such workshops help the officers to refresh their technological knowledge and enable them to interact with scientists. He appreciated the hard working farming community, farm officers and scientists for enabling Himachal Pradesh to receive 'Krishi Karman Award' at the national level for the second time

Dr.Ved Parkash Sharma, Director, Deptt of Agriculture, H.P. informed about the arrangements made for farm inputs for ensuing Kharif season. While elaborating about various programmes of the government to increase production, he 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. He also elaborated about Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna, 'National Food Security Mission', Organic Farming, 'Mukhyamantri Khet Sarankshan Yojna (Chief Minister Crop Protection Scheme)', 'Uttam Chara Utpadan Scheme (Quality Fodder Production Scheme)', 'Pradhan Mantri Fasal Vima  Yojna' etc. and asked farmers to make use of such useful schemes to increase crop production.

Dr.Rajinder Singh Jamwal, Director of Research, elaborated about significant research accomplishments and priorities of the University. He informed that  17489 Kg breeder seed and  10752  Kg of  foundation seed of cereals, pulses, oilseeds, vegetables and fodder crops was produced during last  Kharif  season. 125 research projects worth Rs. 4237 lakh were in operation in the university. He also informed about the release proposal of Soybean variety Himso 1685 for cultivation in  rainfed conditions of mid hills of Himachal Pradesh and proposal of HPR 2795- Him Palam Lal Dhan-1 for inclusion in the package of practices.

Dr.P.K.Mehta, Dean, College of Agriculture,  told that 19687 farmers participated in various trainings by the directorate of extension and Krishi Vigyan Kendras. The university has been sending short messages on mobile benefitting 23,85,988 farmers. He told that 32 training programmes will be organized to train 800 farmers in collaboration with Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam. Drs. Desh Raj Chaudhry and Pawan Sharma also expressed his views.

University statutory officers, Progressive farmers  Messers  Balwinder Singh  Ghanari, A.K.Garg, Munish Kumar, Kuldeep Chand, Het Ram, Banta Ram, Malkiat Singh, Garib Das, Piare Ram, Hari Singh,  Balbir Singh, Achhar Singh, Jyoti Parkash and  Hoshiar Singh also took active part in the discussions and gave suggestions.

 

Vice-Chancellor and other officers during inaugural ceremony of  Kharif  Workshop

A view of the progressive farmers, scientists and officers

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Last Updated: June 03, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/138 Dated: June 03, 2017

CSKHPAU veterinary scientists organize infertility treatment camps in Una villages

Palampur 3 June. A team of veterinary scientists from CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University organized eight infertility treatment camps in different villages of Una district. The camps were organized by the scientists of the Department of Veterinary Gynecology and Obstetrics, DGCN College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences in collaboration with H.P. State Animal Husbandry department at Katohar Khurd, Behar Jaswan,  Nangal Jarialan, Mawa Kaholan, Mazara, Beetan, Dhundla and Hambola  villages under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna project.

Around 225 cows and buffaloes suffering from various infertility related problems were examined and treated in these camps. The scientists collected uterine discharge samples from infertile cows to study the bacterial and fungal infections causing reproductive diseases. Blood samples were also collected from these animals to study minerals, biochemical and hormonal profile for detailed investigations and also to study causes of abortions in cows of these areas. Free medicines were distributed to the farmers. Data were also collected from the staff working in these institutions regarding certain obstetrical interventions in cows reared in this part of the state.

Team leader and Principal Investigator Prof. Madhumeet Singh told that in an effort to study the pattern of infertility in bovines and its mapping in different geographical locations of Himachal Pradesh, total 190 infertility treatment camps have been organized by his department in all parts of state in the last three and a half years that include more than 50 camps in tribal, remote and far-flung locations and more than 5000 cows and buffaloes have been examined and treated so far.Other members of the team included  Dr. Pravesh Kumar Mr. Vijay Rana and Mr. Rakesh Kumar.

Prof A.K.Sarial, the Vice-Chancellor, has appreciated the scientists for serving the livestock keepers with dedication and asked them to continue organising such camps in future also.

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Last Updated: June 03, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/137 Dated: June 03, 2017

CSK H.P. Agriculture University and Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Foundation sign  MOU to train eight  hundred farmers

Palampur 3 June. CSK H.P. Agriculture University and Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN) Foundation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to train eight  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 farmers and entrepreneurs of Himachal Pradesh will help them in various income generating professional activities. It will also help them to double their income as envisaged by the Govt of India. He said this will also enable farmers to understand integrated agriculture and some of them may even adopt start up programmes in agri- entrepreneurship. He appreciated SJVN for imposing its faith in the university as it was their second MOU after successful execution of first MOU signed in September, last year under which five hundred farmers were trained. The Vice-Chancellor advised that a review workshop should be held after every eight trainings where those trainees be invited to give feedback who were quick to implement the newly acquired scientific techniques in their farms. He also advised to publish booklet of trainings with photographs of trainees. He expressed the hope that SJVN would continue their efforts for the upliftment of farmers and livestock keepers under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and assured that the university will extend all help.

Dr Atul, Director of Extension Education, said that in all thirty two 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, nursery production, dairy farming, poly-house cultivation, plant protection, organic agriculture, start up agri- entrepreneurship and  environment impact assessment.

Mr.D.P.Kaushal, Additional General Manager and Secretary SJVN Foundation, told that under the MOU; around Rs. 55 lakh will be spent on thirty two trainings and 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 for earlier trainings which had been very useful to the farmers of different regions of the state.

In addition to Sunil Saklani, Senior Engineer, SJVN ; Dr.Ashok Kumar, OSD to Vice-Chancellor, Principal Extension Specialists Drs Suresh Gautam and  Desh Raj Chaudhry and Dr. Hirday Paul Singh, Jt.Director(Information & Public Relations) 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: June 02, 2017

 

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/136 Dated: June 02, 2017

Vice-Chancellor Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial expresses gratitude to Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare

Palampur 2 June.  Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University  has thanked Protection of Plant Varieties & Farmers' Right Authority (PPVFRA) for sanctioning Rs. six lakh for organizing biodiversity fairs in Himachal Pradesh. He told that the university would organize such fairs in different parts of the state to make farmers aware about the importance of conservation of rich biodiversity and procedure of registration of traditional crop varieties.  

The Vice-Chancellor has also expressed his gratitude to Shri Radha Mohan Singh, Minister of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, Govt. of India, for giving approval for the    Branch Office of Protection of Plant Varieties & Farmers' Right Authority at Palampur, whose foundation stone was laid recently by the  Secretary, Deptt of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers' Welfare, Govt. of India at the university campus.  Prof Sarial said that the opening of new office was an important development as it would provide its services to Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Uttarakhand and Chandigarh Union Territory.

The Vice-Chancellor said that his university will collaborate with PPVFRA branch office in sensitizing the farming community about the importance of natural agro-biodiversity and its registration with the authority. He said that by conserving and registration of germplam, the farmers will be improving their economy and livelihood security as the whole region was very rich for traditional germplasm.

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Last Updated: May 31, 2017

 

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/135 Dated: May 30, 2017

 

 

Another Feather in the cap of Palampur

Dr.S.K.Pattanayak, Secretary Agriculture, Govt of India inaugurates branch Office of Protection of Plant Varieties & Farmers’ Right Authority at CSKHPAU

 

Palampur 30 May.  Dr.S.K.Pattanayak, Secretary Agriculture, Govt of India inaugurates Branch Office of Protection of Plant Varieties & Farmers' Right Authority at CSKHPAU: Dr.S.K.Pattanayak, IAS, Secretary, Deptt of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers' Welfare, Govt. of India inaugurated Northern Himalayan Region branch office of Protection of Plant Varieties & Farmers' Right Authority (PPVFRA) at CSK Agriculture University, here today. Dr.S.K.Pattanayak, in his address to the university scientists and farmers, said that farmers and other stakeholders should make use of new office so that all traditional crop varieties preserved by the farmers were registered and they were benefitted. The farmers were given awards to the tune of Rs ten lakh for saving and preserving such crop varieties. He said that many companies were using such varieties with a trade name and earning money whereas real custodians were not getting due benefit. He said that students should make farming community aware about the importance of PPVFRA act so that rich Himalayan bioresources were protected. Dr.V.L.Chopra, former Director General, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, in his presidential remarks, said that plant biodiversity was very important. Conservation, preservation and technology to make synergy between bio-resources was equally important. He said that critical areas should be identified to make use of biodiversity for the advancement of agriculture. He said that traditional knowledge about this region should be documented by the new office. Dr Chopra also spoke on the rich agro-biodiversity in the country.

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Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, who had been making consistent efforts for the last seven months to pursue the matter with concerned authorities of the Ministry, informed that PPV FRA was established at New Delhi under PPV & FR Act 2001. The purpose was to sensitize the farmers about the importance of natural agro-biodiversity existing in the country and to help them and scientists by registering such biodiversity with the authority. The farmers are the real custodian of these landraces and germplasm which they have improved and conserved since ages. Earlier for registering their valuable agro-biodiversity with unique qualities , the process of registration and testing was initiated and completed from New Delhi but now with the opening of this office, the submission of application, testing and registration will be done from Palampur office itself. All the adjoining states will also be benefitted.


The Vice-Chancellor said that by conserving and registration of germplam, the farmers will be improving their economy and livelihood security as the whole region was very rich for traditional germplasm. Prof Sarial said that his University was, already, organizing awareness camps about this unique act to the farmers and now the registration process will be expedited. The farmers will also be awarded by the PPVFRA. He expressed his gratitude to the Govt. of India for opening PPVFRA branch office at Palampur.


Dr.R.R.Hanchinal, Chairperson, PPVFRA, told that the branch office will have its jurisdiction in the states of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Uttarakhand and Chandigarh Union Territory.He told that initially the branch office will be housed in the building of the Deptt of Organic Agriculture before it is shifted in its independent building within the university premises, whose foundation stone was also laid today by the Chief Guest Dr.S.K.Pattanayak.Guests of honour Dr.P.L.Gautam, former chairperson, PPVFRA and Dr S.K.Sharma, former Vice-Chancellor of CSKHPAU and Director of Research Dr.R.S.Jamwal also gave detailed information about the genesis of this new facility for the farmers, scientists and seed industry. Dr.R.C.Aggarwal, Registrar General, PPVFRA thanked the university for all support in opening the office in its campus.The Chief Guest gave certificates of registration to farmers namely Vipin Kumar , Pardeep Kumar and Raji Lal from Chamba district for getting local varieties registered. Dr Anupam Verma, national professor virology and Dr J.K.Sharma, Nodal Officer, PPVFRA in the University were also present in the inaugural ceremony in addition to a large number of farmers, statutory officers, heads, scientists and students from the university and officers from the State Deptt of Agriculture who also attended the opening ceremony.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last Updated: May 29, 2017

 

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/134 Dated: May 29, 2017

 

 

Awareness programme on the application of radioisotopes & radiation technology at CSKHPAU

 

Radiation technology has wonderful uses for mankind: Prof A.K.Sarial Vice-Chancellor

 

Palampur 29 May.  A two days awareness programme on the Application of radioisotopes and radiation technology in food, environment, health care and industry began at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.Prof A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, who was chief guest in the programme jointly organized by the Global Centre for nuclear energy partnership (GCNEP) and the university, in his inaugural address said that it was imperative to make stakeholders and general masses aware about the uses of nuclear energy for the benefit of mankind. He told that radioisotopes and controlled radiation were used to improve food crops, preserve food, determine ground-water resources, sterilize medical supplies, analyze hormones, X-ray pipelines, controlling industrial processes and study environmental pollution The Vice-Chancellor said that farm scientists use radiation to develop   varieties of cereals, pulses, oilseeds, vegetables and fruit crops which were hardier, more disease-resistant, with improved nutritional value as well as improved baking or malting qualities. This technology was also helpful in the breeding of disease-resistant livestock and was also useful in reducing soil and water pollution.He informed that his university was also making various efforts in this direction to genetically upgrade various crop varieties of cereals, pulses, oilseeds and vegetables by using gamma radiation. He suggested that the post graduate students should acquire knowledge and learn the nuances of application of radioisotopes and radiation technology from the experts for their career   growth. Dr.Rajinder Singh Jamwal, Director of Research, said that apart from its extensive use in electricity and defense sectors, radiation technologies provided competitive and unique solutions to help fight hunger, malnutrition and improve environmental sustainability.

Dr.Lalit Varshney, outstanding scientists and head, GCNEP, Department of Atomic Energy, Govt of India, said that generally people correlate nuclear energy with bombs and electricity only  but it provided  billions of dollar of business and saved millions of people from dreaded diseases. The many useful applications include use of radio tracers in industry, radiographic imaging, diagnoses and treatment of various diseases by radioisotopes, etc. The country has 22 nuclear reactors and the students can have many startups in nuclear energy related programmes and his organization was trying to empower citizens with correct knowledge on isotopes and radiation technology. Dr.H.K.Chaudhary, Head, Deptt of Crop Improvement, told that ten top scientists from Bhaba Atomic Research Centre(BARC), Mumbai would be interacting with students and scientists and expressed the hope that the university and GCNEP will join hands for the benefit of farming community. Mr.S.K.Malhotra, Secretary, Atomic Energy Education Society and a former scientist from BARC delivered a lecture on peaceful applications of nuclear energy. He said that in the 120 years history of nuclear technology, first forty years were 'happy go lucky' but in the last forty years some misconceptions have cropped up. He said that for energy solutions, it was a must to have a combination of renewable energy and nuclear energy and detailed benefits of this energy with documentary proofs for the benefit of mankind.

Drs Umesh Kumar, Harish Jagat Pant, S.N.Jamdar, Sharmilla Banerjee, Vikas Kumar, J.G.Manjaya, N.K.Goel and Amar Banerji, all scientists from BARC, Mumbai would be interacting with the participants. University statutory officers, heads , scientists and students attended the inaugural programme. Drs V.K.Sud and Rajan Katoch also spoke on the occasion.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last Updated: May 25, 2017

 

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/132 Dated: May 25, 2017

 

Vice-Chancellor Prof A.K.Sarial applauds efforts of the Indian Army for philanthropic activities  

Palampur 25 May.  Prof A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, has commended the Indian Army for carrying-out various philanthropic activities, in addition to protecting the country from enemies. He was addressing a group of about two dozen farmers from Kupwara district of Jammu  & Kashmir, who were on a two days visit to the university under 'Operation Sadbhawana'.

The Vice-Chancellor said that geographical conditions of Himachal Pradesh were similar to some regions of J&K and the farmers can adopt many of the improved tools and technology developed by this university. He advised them to maintain a link with two farm universities at Srinagar and Jammu ,  their Krishi Vigyan Kendras and other development departments for eliciting latest farm inputs and know-how. Prof Sarial said that if need be, experts of his university can visit farmers to provide them any specific or specialized information and trainings. He also asked them to adopt farm mechanization to reduce drudgery in agricultural operations. He expressed the hope that farmers of J&K will come forward in a big number to double their income with a large number of programmes initiated by the Govt of India.

Major Sumit Kumar from 20 Dogra , TMG Brigade told that the farmers visit has been conducted under capacity building programme so that farmers may  get first hand information from the scientists of the university.

The Vice-Chancellor interacted with farmers who also expressed their gratitude to the Indian Army for  conducting useful visit to the university.

Dr.Atul, Director of  Extension Education; Dr Ashok Kumar, OSD to VC and Dr.Hirday Paul Singh, Jt Director (Information & Public Relations) were present during the meeting.

 

 


 

Last Updated: May 24, 2017

 

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/131 Dated: May 24, 2017

Farm Feature

'Himsamridhi' to help the farmers in doubling their income

CSKHPAU develops a new poultry stock to promote rural backyard poultry farming

Palampur. 24 May. The scientists of CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University have developed a new poultry stock (variety) and named it 'Himsamridhi'.  It has been developed by the scientists of the Department of Animal Genetics & Breeding, Dr.G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences.

'Himsamridhi' has been developed by crossing a red-colored dual purpose poultry breed (Dahlem Red) with selected native (Desi) chicken of the State. The research work on development of this new location specific poultry variety was being carried on under the aegis of ongoing All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Poultry Breeding (Rural Poultry Unit) centre at the university and its coordinating unit at Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)- Directorate of Poultry Research, Hyderabad.  This AICRP on Poultry Breeding centre was sanctioned by the ICAR during 2009-10 and was further extended for XII five-year plan period. A major objective of this project was evaluation of local fowl germplasm and production of poultry crosses suitable for rural poultry farming under local climatic conditions with focus to improve rural backyard poultry farming in hilly regions.

The on-farm and field performance of  'Himsamridhi'  has been evaluated.  It has proved as a promising egg type poultry stock suitable for rural backyard poultry farming in this area. The important characteristics of this stock are; attractive reddish brown plumage colour, good growth, early feathering, adaptability, good for aging and scavenging, early start of laying, large brown shelled egg and reasonably good egg production.  The adult (20 weeks) body weight in a male and female bird is 1.750 kg- 2.200 kg and 1.500 kg - 1.750 kg, respectively. The egg production in hens starts at 18-20 weeks of age. The birds are able to lay 160-180 eggs / bird in a laying year. The eggs are brown shelled and weigh 55-60 gms. This stock is being preferred by farmers in this area for rearing as colored egg type bird under backyard production.

The department has been hatching and supplying chicks of this stock DND [(DR X N) X DR] to the poultry farmers for rearing under backyard poultry with increasing acceptability.  During 2016-17, the department had supplied approximately 35000 chicks of this stock to over 450 farmers for rearing. This included poultry units established in the agro climatically harsh tribal areas of the state, where these birds have survived and performed well. This new stock has been released as a new location specific poultry variety named “Himsamridhi” for further propagation in the state after approval from the ICAR.

According to Dr.Y.P.Thakur, Principal Investigator of the project, in the beginning, bench mark surveys were carried on in different areas of the state to elicit people’s preference for the type of poultry bird suitable to rural backyard poultry production and then proceed for developing desired type of stock based on survey response on farmer’s expectation. In these surveys, the farmers had preferred a coloured bird with good growth, early feathering, good egg production, brown shelled egg with large size, low mortality, good foraging and scavenging habits and ability to escape from predators. After knowing people’s choice, different improved poultry stocks available in the country were evaluated for their production performance, adaptability and suitability for backyard poultry production in this region.  Based on people’s choice and after comprehensive evaluation, a cross of  Dahlem Red (a dual purpose breed) and native chicken population of Himachal Pradesh having desired characteristics and favorable consumer’s preference was identified as promising poultry stock suitable for rural backyard poultry farming in this area. The breeding plan for production of this stock involved mating of improved egg type Dahlem Red parent stock birds procured from available sources in the country to selected native birds and evaluating the performance of the resultant progeny. The native birds used were initially procured from different regions of the state and subsequently selected for improved egg production over several generations.  The selected first generation crosses males were than mated to Dahlem Red parent hens to obtain the terminal cross having 75% Dahlem Red and 25% native blood level. This cross DND [(DR X N) X DR)] has been comprehensively evaluated, refined, stabilized and tested under farmer’s level to develop and release as a location specific poultry stock suitable for egg type rural backyard poultry farming in hilly areas.

He told that his department intends to further increase the hatching and availability of chicks of this stock to the farmers throughout the state in the coming years which will boost backyard poultry farming in this region, where commercial scale poultry production has not yet picked up and added to the farm income of the local people. The department is also taking up characterization and genetic improvement of the native chicken germplasm present in the rural areas of the state for its recognition as a distinct chicken breed. The chicks of native birds are also provided to farmers who are interested to raise Desi birds.

Prof A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor has appreciated the principal investigator Dr.Y.P.Thakur and his team including Dr Varun Sankhyan, for developing ‘Himsamridhi’ as it would improve the farm economy besides improving nutritional quality of  poor farm families as these are mostly deficient in high protein diet. The Vice-Chancellor said that rearing of these poultry birds alongwith other agricultural activities would add to the family income substantially and help the farmers in doubling their income as envisaged by the Govt. of India.

 

 

The new crossbred poultry birds at farmer’s backyard poultry units;  Male and female birds of Himsamridhi

Tribal farmer with Egg Produced from  DND .

Last Updated: May 24, 2017

 

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/130 Dated: May 24, 2017

AICRP Meet on Poultry Breeding at CSKHPAU

Vice-Chancellor Prof A.K.Sarial underlines the importance of backyard poultry in nutritional & livelihood security of rural India

 

Palampur 24 May.  A two days annual review meeting of the All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Poultry Breeding and Poultry Seed Projects was inaugurated at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today. On this occasion, a new poultry stock (variety) 'Himsamridhi' developed by the scientists of host University was released.

Prof A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, in his presidential remarks, said that poultry was one of the fastest growing sectors with annual six percent growth rate which could help strengthening rural household economy. Although commercial poultry was an organized sector in India, it was not so for rural poultry which was vastly unorganized. He said that by popularizing backyard poultry breeds like 'Himsamridhi', the nutritional and livelihood security of poor farmers can be secured. He informed that his university has identified twenty farm enterprises which could help farmers in doubling their income in the next five years as envisaged by the Govt. of India. He also complimented the veterinary scientists for developing new poultry stock  which has performed well even in harsh climate of tribal areas of  Himachal Pradesh.

Chief Guest Dr.Ravinder Singh Gandhi, Assistant  Director General, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), while congratulating the scientists for developing Himachal Pradesh specific poultry breed 'Himsamridhi' told that India was third largest egg producer in the world yet egg consumption in rural India was merely twenty eggs per annum in comparison to consumption of hundred eggs in urban areas. He told that some of the poultry breeds developed by India have become popular in African countries due to their usefulness and characteristics.

Dr.R.N. Chatterjee, Director, Directorate of Poultry Research, Hyderabad, told that scientific innovations have enabled to increase egg production thirteen times and the country was producing 83 billion eggs per annum and consumption was 66 billion eggs. He said that efforts have been made to reorient rural poultry. 

Dr. Arjava Sharma, Director, National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal, said that animal husbandry was playing an important role in agricultural growth. Poultry, besides strengthening rural economy, was also provides entrepreneurship. He said that after evaluation, newly released ‘Himsamridhi’ can be further improved.

Dr.R.S.Jamwal, Director of Research and  Dr.R.K.Agnihotri, Dean, Dr.GCN College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences also expressed their views. Dr.Y.P.Thakur, Head, Deptt of Animal Genetics & Breeding  and Principal Coordinator, All India Coordinated Research Project on Poultry Breeding, detailed about the characteristics of  ‘Himsamridhi’ developed by him and Dr Varun Sankhyan. Chicks of 'Himsamridhi' were distributed to five progressive farmers namely  Messers Jagan Singh, Rakesh Kumar, Prem Kapoor, Suresh Kumar and Kuldeep  Chand from Bharmour region of district Chamba by the Vice-Chancellor and Assistant Director General.

Statutory officers and scientists from the university and around fifty delegates from all over the country took part in the inaugural ceremony.

 

 

 

Last Updated: May 23, 2017

 

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/129 Dated: May 23, 2017

A Gaddi goat farmer associated with CSKHPAU gets a National Award

Palampur 23 May. A gaddi goat farmer Shri Karam Chand, associated with on-going Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) funded project in CSK H.P. Agriculture University,  has been was awarded with "Breed Saviour Award-2016" at ICAR – National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources(NBAGR), Karnal. The award comprising Rs.  Ten thousand and a citation was given by Dr. J. K. Jena, Deputy Director General, ICAR.

"All India Co-ordinated Research Project on Goat Improvement" is operational in the Department of Animal Genetics & Breeding, Dr G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences (COVAS) of the university for the last six years. Sh. Karam Chand from  Bringati Deol village in Chamba district has been selected for this award for his  breed conservation work. He belongs to tribal gaddi community and is maintaining a pure bred flock of 389 gaddi goats. Ever since his association in the AICRP projects since last six years, his flock size has increased from 275 to 389 and birth weight of kids from 2.70 to 3.03 Kg and 9 month body weight 21.65 to 24.02 kg. along with  a significant improvement in kid survival rate and decrease in mortality rate. All these could be attributed to the scientific breeding, feeding and management inputs being advised and provided to the farmer from time to time under the project. The farmer is now earning Rs. 4 to 5 lakh per year through various goat farming activities

Prof A.K. Sarial, the Vice-Chancellor, has congratulated the farmer as the commendable work of the university has been appreciated at the national level. He has also complimented Dr. P. K. Dogra, Principal Investigator of the project and his team comprising Drs. Varun, Parveen, Pankaj and Ankur for this achievement. He has urged them to continue the good work for the benefit of tribal gaddi community as this award to the university client would inspire other livestock keepers to come forward for conservation of different livestock breeds of the state.

 

 

Shri Karam Chand receiving the award from DDG, ICAR

 

 

 

Last Updated: May 16, 2017

 

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/128 Dated: May 16, 2017

 

 

Porf A.K.Sarial exhorts scientists to provide innovative solutions with new tools and technology

 

Palampur 16 May. Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor has called upon the scientists to utilize latest tools and technology to provide innovative solutions to the farming community. He was addressing principal investigators (PIs) and co-principal investigators (Co-PIs) while inaugurating a training programme on 'Geo-tagging of assets for Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna (RKVY)' at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor told that under the digital India Initiative, Govt of India has made it mandatory for all the agencies to geo-tag the assets created through government or public funds.  The university has  created number of assets so it was timely to train PIs and Co-PIs  for Geo-tagging of  assets and he appreciated the Centre for Geo-informatics Research and Training (CGRT) for the initiative.

He disclosed that he has been able to create extremely congenial scientific environment in the university resulting in submission of a large number of research projects to various funding agencies. Fifteen projects worth Rs 52 crore have been submitted for funding to the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) under National Agricultural Sciences Fund and fourteen research projects worth Rs 14 crore have been submitted under RKVY. Another project worth Rs 10 crore has been submitted to Japan International Cooperation Agency(JICA) to produce seed on 73 hectare land  in the university. Prof Sarial asked the scientists to maintain dignity of the profession by working hard and sincerely and conduct themselves in an exemplary manner to produce such results which enable the farmers and state to raise its economy.  

Dr.R.S.Jamwal, Director of Research, asked the scientists to be well versed in geo-tagging and download  software on their smart phones and upload on Bhuvan  portal of RKVY so that the university was compliant institution under digital India programme of the Govt of India.

Dr Sharda Singh,  Programme Director, CGRT, told that her centre has completed projects worth Rs. Five crore since its inception . Dr.RS.Rana, Mr.Vaibhav Kalia and Mr Kunal Sood also elaborated about the objectives of training.

Besides twenty trainees, Dr Kamlesh Singh, Dean College of Basic Sciences and Dr Hirday Paul Singh, Joint Director (Information & Public Relations) were present during the inaugural ceremony.

In another programme on Demonstration of Agriculture Mechanization, Prof  Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor underlined the importance of farm mechanization to save energy and resources besides reducing drudgery  in farming. He said that it was important to provide reliable engineering for practical solutions at grassroots. Similarly, rural infrastructure should be created for repair and maintenance of farm machinery. The Vice-Chancellor said that Self Help Groups should come forward to purchase farm implements, tools and machinery and young farmers must be involved in such activities as farm labour was becoming a costly affair for common farmers.

Dr.R.S.Jamwal, Director of Research told that the university has developed fourteen small farm tools. Dr.D.K.Vatsa, Head, Deptt. of Agricultural Engineering said that power availability in Himachal Pradesh was merely 0.9 Kilowatt in comparison to Punjab where it was 4 Kilowatt. Mr.Ravinder Kumar, MD, SAS Motors, Faridabad who organized the programme also elaborated about farm machines developed by his company. Around 100 farmers took part in the farm machinery demonstration. Dr.P.K.Mehta, Dean, College of Agriculture, Mr Sutanu Behuria, Retd IAS officer and university scientists were present in the programme.

 

 

Prof A.K.Sarial discussing a point with Dr.Sharda Singh, Programme Director CGRT

 

A view of training on Geo tagging

 

A farm women trying her hands on a farm machine

 

 

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Last Updated: May 9, 2017

 

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/126 Dated: May 9, 2017

 

 

Think out of the box to solve the new challenges in farming: Mr S.S.Ahluwalia

 

Palampur 9 May. Mr S.S.Ahluwalia, Union Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare and Parliamentary Affairs, has asked the farming community to make use of  new programmes and schemes to double their income. He was addressing the farmers, scientists and agriculture officers at Krishi Vigyan Kendra(KVK) of CSK H.P. Agriculture University at Kangra, around  40 KMs from here today.

The Minister said that farm officers and scientists must work hard to transfer the new scientific technology and research to the fields as there was huge gap between laboratories and farms. He told that traditional knowledge had its utility and integrated farming, animal husbandry, fishery, increasing the production of oilseeds, pulses, etc were important. He also enlightened the farmers about new plans and emphasized the need to involve young generation with the farming for which the Govt. of India has initiated programmes like start up India, skill enhancement training, etc. When informed about the damage to crops by monkeys, wild and stray animal, the Minister asked the scientists to think out of box to solve such problems and also  gave some suggestions to deal with these new challenges. He said instead of abandoning the farming or growing less remunerative crops, such issues should be taken up as new challenges and provided workable solutions.

 The Minister said that the scientists and farm officers needed to work hard to have live link with the farmers and regularly interact with them to provide them innovative ideas and solutions. He also listened to the problems of farmers and agreed to consider the  suggestion to grant licenses to sell farm inputs to the wards of farmers.

Prof A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, apprised the minister  that his university has developed twenty models of  enterprises which can enable the farmers to double their income. He elaborated about such enterprises. He assured the minister that his university would toil hard to help the farming community to double their income. He also detailed about various academic, research and extension education activities.

Dr Atul, Director of Extension Education, told that KVKs were integrating new government schemes in various training programmes. Dr Vishal Dogra, Programme Coordinator, informed about his KVK activities.

Besides, progressive farmers from various  areas of the district, officers from the state department of agriculture and the university scientists, Dr R.S.Jamwal, Director of Research, Dr Ashok Sharma, OSD to Vice-Chancellor, Dr Hirday Paul Singh, Joint Director (Information & Public Relations ), Mrs Binta Sood, Project Director, Agricultural Technology Management Agency, Mr. Chamanjit Kapoor, Joint Director Agriculture were also  present on the occasion.

Earlier, Mr.S.S.Ahluwalia held a meeting with the Vice-Chancellor and statutory officers and asked them to serve the farming community with unflagging zest.

 

Mr.S.S.Ahluwalia , Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare  addressing the farmers

 

A view of  dais and farmers.

 

 

 

Vice-Chancellor honouring the Minister

 

 

 

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Last Updated: May 5, 2017

 

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/124 Dated: May 5, 2017

Farmers, scientists and farm officers celebrate Wheat day at Malan

Prof A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, asks farmers to grow red rice on larger scale

Palampur 5 May. The farmers, scientists and agriculture officers celebrated Wheat day at Rice & Wheat Research Station of the University at Malan, 20 KMs from here today. Prof A.K.Sarial, Vice Chancellor, as Chief Guest, while appreciating the efforts of scientists for developing high yielding wheat varieties, asked the farmers to pay attention for increasing their farm income by adopting university approved crop varieties and scientific technology. He elaborated that to double the farmers' income, his university has identified and developed twenty enterprises and the farmers should come forward to try such proven technology. He said that keeping in view the growing awareness about the medicinal and nutritive value of red rice among consumers, the farmers should cultivate it at a larger scale. The Vice-Chancellor also spoke on the importance of organic farming, protected cultivation, soil and water conservation, animal husbandry, etc. He appreciated the role of farm women in hill agriculture. Dr.R.S.Jamwal, Director of Research, elaborated about the research work on various wheat varieties which were resistant to diseases. He asked the farmers to use quality seed from a known source and also underlined the importance of safe food and chemical-free farming. Dr.Atul, Director of Extension Education, suggested the farmers to maintain a live-link with the university and it's all Krishi Vigyan Kendras and research stations for latest know-how. He also detailed about extension programmes.

Dr.Daisy Basandrai, Principal Scientists and In-charge, Rice & Wheat Research Station educated about various activities of her station and gave information about newly developed wheat and rice varieties. Mrs Binta Sood, Project Director, Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) elaborated about various training and other programmes for the benefit of farmers.

Head of Departments from the university and other scientists interacted with farmers to answer their farm-related questions. Dr.Ajai Srivastva and Dr.Sandeep Manuja also expressed their views on wheat crop.The Vice Chancellor, honored progressive farmers Messers Milap Chand Rana, Krishan Singh, Manuj Syal and Mrs Subhadra Devi. He also released a booklet on red rice. He visited the experimental farm and visited the exhibition installed on the occasion. Farmers also purchased seed of paddy and summer vegetables. Dr.Ashwani Basandrai, Dean Post Graduate Studies, Dr. Ashok Kumar, OSD to Vice-Chancellor, Dr.Hirday Paul Singh, Joint Director Information & Public Relations and Mr Arun Vyas, District Agricultural Officer were present on the occasion

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Last Updated: May 2, 2017

 

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/123 Dated: May 2, 2017

 

CSKHPAU prepares a  model to double farmers' income: Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor

 

 

        Palampur 2 May. A state annual action plan meeting of all  Krishi Vigyan Kendras(KVKs)  of  Himachal Pradesh was held  at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today. In his inaugural address, Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, told that his university has prepared a model to double farmers' income in the mountainous and hill state of Himachal Pradesh. He elaborated that twenty enterprises have been identified where a farm family of four-five persons can earn much. He lamented that only around forty percent of scientific technology has reached farms and KVKs need to work hard to convince the farmers to adopt modern technology to double their income as envisaged  by the Govt. of India.

        The Vice-Chancellor while complimenting the KVKs for their recent accomplishments, suggested that farm related issues and problems needed to be addressed on priority. He told that agriculture contributed  over 45 percent to the net state domestic product and it was main source of income and employment in the state. Over 93 percent population of Himachal Pradesh depended directly on agriculture which provided direct employment to 71 percent of its people. Since 80 percent of the area was rainfed so there was need to conserve water and scientifically cultivate cereals, pulses and oilseed crops. He highlighted the importance of high value cash crops, off season vegetables and poly houses cultivation to increase the farmers' income. Prof Sarial said that skill development was important to make the rural youth employable. He asked KVKs to become engines of agricultural development in their respective districts.

        Dr.Vijay Singh Thakur, Director of Extension Education, Dr.Y S Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry (UHF told that by simply  shifting  one percent cultivable area under high value cash crops  like fruits, vegetables and flowers, the income of farmers will increase manifold. He said that farmers were very enlightened and  require specific and intelligent solutions to their problems.

        Dr.Rajbir Singh, Director, Agricultural Technology Assessment & Refinement Institute, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Ludhiana, told that the ICAR has sanctioned another KVK for Himachal Pradesh at Tabo in Spiti valley and UHF was in the process to make it functional by filling up various positions. He said that many new farm related schemes have been introduced like skill development , start up and stand up India and asked KVKs to devote at least twenty minutes daily to keep their surroundings clean. He said that Niti Ayog has lauded the KVKs for rural transformation. He also suggested to popularize vegetable washing machine in vegetable growing areas.

         Dr.Atul, Director of Extension Education of the host university, told that an App will be developed to monitor the work of all thirteen KVKs in the state. Monthly meeting of all KVKs will be held and Good Agricultural Practices of each district will be documented. Dr. Arvind Kumar, Principal Scientist, ATARI, also expressed his views. A publication was also released by the Vice-Chancellor.

Mr Satish Kumar, Registrar; Dr.R.S Jamwal, Director of Research, Dr.R.K.Agnihotri, Dean, Dr. G.C. Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Dr.Ashwani Kumar, Dean Post Graduate Studies; Dr.Promila Kanwar, Dean, College of  Home Science and Dr.Hirday Paul Singh, Joint Director (Information & Public Relations) also attended the inaugural ceremony. Around 50 farm scientists from KVKs and the University took part in the workshop.

 

 

 

 

 

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Last Updated: April 26, 2017

 

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/122 Dated: April 26, 2017

 

 

CSKHPAU notifies three percent enhanced DA to its staff

 

Palampur 26 April. CSK H.P. Agriculture University has enhanced the rate of Dearness Allowance (DA) by three percent from the existing rate of 127 per cent to 130 per cent with effect from 1 July, 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   shall be paid  in cash with the salary of April  payable  in May  and arrears  with effect from  July 2016 to March, 2017 shall be credited in the GPF account of the  employees depending upon the availability of funds.

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: April 21, 2017

 

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/119 Dated: April 21, 2017

 

 "Right person at right place" approach is the mantra to solve many farm problems: Prof Ashok Sarial

 

Palampur 21 April. "Right person at right place" approach could solve many problems of the  Indian agriculture  said Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor in his presidential address during a workshop organized by  All India Agricultural Students' Association (AIASA)  at CSK Agriculture University, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor told that agriculture sector in India provided livelihood to about 52 percent of the population and contributed about 15 percent to the Gross Domestic Product. Agricultural education was one of the most relevant educations in the country for growth and sustainable development. He said that there were many sectors providing placement to the farm graduates and some concrete initiatives have been taken by the ICAR and farm universities to impart necessary skills and confidence among farm graduates to establish and operate their own business units through first-hand experience of managing model farms and pilot plants during the course of study. Experiential learning, rural agricultural work experience, and students' rural entrepreneurship   awareness development yojna programmes were some prominent features of agricultural education in the country. There were 62 state agricultural universities, two central farm varsities, four Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) deemed universities, etc and about 15 thousand graduates, 11 thousand masters and 2500 PhDs   were admitted every year.

Prof Sarial also elaborated about the steps taken by him to prepare the students in the university to prepare them to confidently write national level competitive examinations and face interviews with added soft skills. He asked the students to add positivity and confidence in their personalities to face the realities of life.

Dr.Sahadeva Singh, Chief Policy Advisor, AIASA, delivered a talk on, "Career opportunities and techno-administrative reforms in agriculture and role of AIASA in carrying forward the agenda". Dr.Kamlesh Singh, Students' Welfare Officer, Dr.V.K.Sharma, Program Director, HRD and Placement centre and Mr Saurabh Soni, President of Himachal Pradesh Chapter, AIASA, also expressed his views.

All the statutory officers, heads, faculty and students of all constituent colleges attended the programme.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Last Updated: April 19, 2017

 

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/118 Dated: April 19, 2017

 

CSK H.P. Agriculture University  appoints  21 Assistant Professors in COVAS

 

Palampur 19 April. CSK H.P. Agriculture University has issued appointment letters to 21 Assistant Professors in different disciplines of veterinary sciences.  All the newly appointed teachers have been posted in different departments of Dr.G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences(COVAS). The newly appointed teachers include  Drs. Aman Dev Moudgil (Veterinary Parasitology), Ajayta Rialch (Veterinary Parasitology), Madhu Suman (Animal Nutriton), Prashant Sudamrao Daundkar (Veterinary Pharmacology & Toxicology), Anjali Somal( Veterinary Physiology), Surender  Kumar (Veterinary Medicine), Sanjay Kumar ( Livestock Products Technology), Anjali Kumari (Livestock Production Management), Ankaj  Thakur (Livestock Production Management ), Narender Kumar(Livestock Production Management), Rakesh Kumar( Veterinary Pathology) ,Swati Sharma(Veterinary Pathology), Manoj Kumar Sharma( Veterinary & Animal Husbandry Education, Krishanender Dinesh (Animal Genetics & Breeding), Rajesh Kumar (Animal Genetics & Breeding), Nishant Verma (Animal Genetics & Breeding), RishikaVij( Veterinary Biochemistry), Parul Shukla(Veterinary Anatomy), Raheeqa Razvi (Veterinary Anatomy), Shama Khan( Veterinary Gynaecology & Obstetrics) and Madhu Sharma( Fisheries).

According to Prof. Ashok K. Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, the recruitment has been done as per the policy of State Government after a long gap of almost eight years. He told that it was essential to fill-up the positions to maintain high academic standards in COVAS as the staff was over burdened due to faculty positions fallen vacant on retirement.  The Veterinary Council of India, a regulatory body at all India level of veterinary education, during inspection of the college last year had also raised concern about shortage of faculty.  Prof  Sarial said that majority of the   freshly recruited candidates have their B. V. Sc  degree from this university  but acquired their  M.V. Sc and  Ph. D  degrees outside the state from  reputed national  institutes like  Indian Veterinary Research Institute  (IVRI), Izatnagar and  National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), Karnal, hence possess wide exposure to academic standards  that will help  in the long run to  accelerate the pace of teaching, research and extension education activities  of the university.  Acquiring degrees from different institutes outside the state is considered an essential ingredient to prevent inbreeding in faculty which according to the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is a cause of deteriorating academic norms in many of the state agricultural universities in India.  Prof Sarial said that all the newly selected teachers not only possess wide academic excellence but have qualified the all India National Eligibility Test (NET) of Assistant Professor conducted by Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board of the ICAR.

The Vice-Chancellor informed that the process to fill- up more posts of teachers in other three colleges and non-teaching staff in the university was underway after receiving permission from the state government.  He thanked the Chief Minister in particular and Govt. of Himachal Pradesh in general for granting permission to recruit staff in the university.

 

 

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Last Updated: April 19, 2017

 

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/117 Dated: April 18, 2017

 

National Group meet of AICRP on Forage Crops begins at CSK HPAU

 

Palampur 18 April. A two days National Group meet of the scientists working in All India Coordinated Research Project on Forage crops and utilization (AICRP FCU) began at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

In his presidential remarks, Prof  Kuldip Chand Agnihotri, Vice-Chancellor, Central University of Himachal Pradesh, asked the young scientists to conduct path breaking research for the common good of country. He said that there should be joy of discovery among the scientific community and all institutions must justify their existence with dedicated work and useful results. Prof Agnihotri  said that there should be integrated development  and the holistic approach could give solutions to many complex issues. He lamented that  rural population has almost abandoned cattle rearing. He asked the scientists to find solutions to such issues.  He said that all out efforts should be made to enhance production and productivity of fodder crops.

Dr.I.S.Solanki, Assistant Director General, India Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), who was Chief Guest, said that there was need to develop and popularize good quality fodder crops. He said that production and productivity of livestock was not satisfactory so nutrient rich fodder varieties with quality traits were required. He asked the scientists that despite challenges of climate change, deteriorating soil and water quality and decreasing cultivable land, they should reorient their strategies for enhancing production.

Dr.A,K. Roy, Project Coordinator, AICRP FCU, Jhansi, detailed progress report on the fodder crops. He told that there were 22 coordinating centres in the country and 190 fodder varieties have been developed.

Dr.Sujoy Rakshit, Director, Indian Institute of Maize Research;  Dr.R.S.Jamwal, Director of Research and  Dr.P.K.Mehta, Dean, College of Agriculture, also expressed their views. Some publication was also released on the occasion. Dr.Naveen Kumar, Organizing Secretary, told that around 75 scientists from the country would be deliberating on forage crop resources, pasture and grassland management. Some progressive farmers are also taking part in the meet.

 

 

A view of dais and participants 

 

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Last Updated: April 06, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/115 Dated: April 06, 2017

 

 

CSKHPAU  to fill up faculty and non-teaching positions: Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial

 

Palampur 6 April. A branch office of Protection of Plant Varieties & Farmers' Right Authority (PPV&FRA) will  start functioning at CSK Agriculture University soon. This was disclosed by Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, during his media interaction, here today. The Vice-Chancellor informed that the Union  Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has  notified one branch office of PPV&FRA and his University will enter into an MoU next month to provide 20 acre land to establish the office. The jurisdiction of this office will be the States of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Uttrakhand and Chandigarh Union Territory. PPV&FRA was established under PPV&FR Act 2001 with the aim to sensitize the farmers about the importance of natural agro-biodiversity existing in the country and to help the farmers and scientists by registering such biodiversity with the Authority. Such farmers are the real custodians of these landraces and germplasm which they have improved and conserved since ages. Earlier, for registering their valuable agro-diversity with unique qualities, the process of registration and testing was initiated and completed from New Delhi but now the submission of applications, testing and registration will be done from CSKHPAU. All the adjoining States will also be benefiting by the establishing of this office. Prof Sarial told that for the micro level documentation of all the biodiversity components such as plants, animals, microbes, insects and their possible use by the local communities, university will shortly sign another  MoU with the HP State Biodiversity Board to prepare People's Biodiversity Registers (PBR's). Initially, this assignment will be started with 20 Biological Management committees of Kullu district to prepare 20 PBR's. The University will receive Rs 20 lakh for preparing these PBR's. The Vice-Chancellor said that his University has some untapped land resource. To make it available for serving the farming community of the State, a project for the creation of infrastructure for the production of vegetables, forage, oilseeds and pulses seed, with an outlay of Rs 10 crore is likely to be provided by  Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)  through HP Crop Diversification Promotion Project. After developing the area, quality seeds all the crops will be produced and supplied to the farmers. He told that in the Board of Management has approved filling up 25 more positions of Junior Office Assistants in addition to some other positions of non-teaching staff. The process to appoint 22 faculty positions was in the final stages and some more posts of teachers will be filled up in future. He also elaborated about his initiatives to improve the quality of education, coaching and guidance classes for preparing the students for various competitive examinations. Adjunct faculty and honorary professors will be invited to teach and guide the students in research. Zero budget farming component has been introduced in post graduate research and the university has already purchased four desi cows for conducting work on zero budget farming. The university is  likely to be gifted ten cows by Gurukul, Kurukshetra.  He said that the scientists have been motivated to write quality research projects which will benefit the farming community of the State. He said that admission process will be completed in time. The Vice-Chancellor also answered to various questions by the reporters. 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.

 

 

 

Last Updated: April 05, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/114 Dated: April 05, 2017

 

Vice-Chancellor Prof A.K.Sarial lays foundation stone of Rs. 24.60  lakh Coaching Centre at CSKHPAU

 

Palampur 5 April. Prof.A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University, laid the foundation stone of 'Coaching-cum-Guidance Centre' for scheduled tribe students, here today. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research has provided funds to the tune of Rs.24.60 lakh under Tribal sub plan for the centre which will facilitate preparing post-graduate students for various competitive examinations. The centre  will be constructed adjoining Dean, Post Graduate office. Dr  Ashwani Kumar Basandrai, Dean, PGS; Mr Satish Kumar Sharma, Registrar; Dr Kamlesh Singh, Students' Welfare Officer; Dr. R.S. Jamwal, Director of Research; Dr.Pawan Kumar Mehta, Director of Extension Education; Dr. Rajeev Kumar Agnihotri, Dean, Dr. G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences; Dr. Promila Kanwar, Dean, College of Home Science; Er. Ashok Kumar, Executive Engineer; Dr Ashok Kumar, OSD to Vice-Chancellor; Dr.J.S.Guleria, and Dr. Hirday Paul Singh, Joint Director (Information & Public Relations)were present during the foundation laying ceremony.

 

 

Last Updated: March 30, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/113 Dated: 30 March, 2017

 

CSKHPAU veterinary scientists organize Infertility treatment camps in remote villages of Shimla

 

Palampur 30 March. A team of veterinary scientists of CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University organized four infertility treatment camps in remote villages of district Shimla, recently. These camps were organized by the scientists from the Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Dr G.C.N College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences(COVAS), under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna (RKVY) project in collaboration with H.P. State Animal Husbandry Department at Dewat (Chopal), Kedi (Nerwa), Sainj (Theog) and Ratnari (Kotkhai) villages of District Shimla.

Around 160 cows suffering from infertility problems were examined and treated in these camps. Scientists collected uterine discharge samples from infertile cows to study the bacterial and fungal infections causing reproductive diseases. Blood samples were also collected from these animals to study minerals, biochemical and hormonal profile for detailed investigations and also to study causes of abortions in cows of these areas. Free medicines were distributed to the farmers. Data were also collected from the staff working in these institutions regarding certain obstetrical interventions in cows reared in this part of the state. The team was led by  Prof. Madhumeet Singh, Head-cum- Principal Investigator and included  Dr. Pravesh Kumar , Mr. Vijay Rana and Mr. Rakesh Kumar.

Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor has appreciated the efforts of scientists in serving the livestock keepers in remote areas of the State.

Meanwhile, the Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, COVAS, conducted continuing education workshop  on "Veterinary Emergency and critical care". Around fifty post-graduate and internship students along with faculty participated in the workshop. Dr.  Matthias Frank, Chief Surgeon, Klienetierklinik, Germany; Dr. Antonio Borelli, University of Turin, Italy and Dr.  Matteo Olimpo, University of Turin, Italy were the key speakers and trainers. The workshop primarily focused on the diagnostic and therapeutic management of emergent and critically ill patients. Dr Adarsh Kumar, Head of the department, Dr Mandeep Sharma,Dr SP Tyagi and Dr Amit Kumar also addressed the trainees.

 

 

 

 

Last Updated: March 29, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/112 Dated: 29 March, 2017

 

World Renowned Scientist at CSKHPAU

Possible to increase crop yields to feed ever increasing population: Dr.Gurdev Singh Khush

Palampur 28 March.  Dr.Gurdev Singh Khush, an internationally acclaimed farm scientist delivered a talk on "Biotechnology for food security" at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.

"The father of Green Revolution in Rice" as he is called, said that it was a challenge to increase present food production to feed  the ever increasing population. He told that by 2050, food production requirement would increase by fifty percent than the present levels and biotechnological tools like tissue culture, molecular marker technology, application of genetic engineering and allied disciplines   can help to increase the production. He told that development of crop varieties with higher yields, closing production gaps, etc were the mantras to increase production in decreasing  farm lands.  Dr. Khush, who is member of US National  Academy of Science and Adjunct Professor, University of California,  told that there will be less water, less land and  less labor and the farm scientists would have to redraw their plans with new scientific interventions like re-engineering photosynthesis to develop physiologically efficient rice, making plant inset-pest resistant  with plant genetic engineering, controlling   weeds through development of herbicide tolerant crops, transgenetic control of  insects and rice transformation to make it grow in submerged and drought  prone areas, etc.

Dr Khush, who is credited   for helping  in development of  more than 300 rice varieties which occupy more than sixty per cent area under rice cultivation in the world,   said that most of the rice eating poor population was  facing acute deficiency of iron and Vitamin A but  biotechnology has been able to enrich certain rice varieties with mineral and vitamins with introduction of  useful genes  from different organisms in the rice plant.

Dr Gurdev Singh Khush,  recipient of twelve honorary doctorates from top universities including Cambridge university ,  also advocated cultivation of genetically modified  crops to reduce hunger and malnutrition . He said that certain lobbies were working against GM crops  despite the fact that leading scientific academies of the world including  FAO has certified that these  crops have no danger to human health or environment. He also answered to many questions by students and scientists.

Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor felicitated Dr Khush on behalf of the university and expressed his gratitude to him for visiting the university and interacting with scientists and students. He said that indiscriminate use of chemicals has sent warning signals to the policy makers  and soil health related issues should be solved by the farm scientists.

Dr.S.K.Sharma, a former Vice-Chancellor,  said that the country has not more than 2.5 percent resources of the world but around fifty percent of the world population to feed. He also advocated GM crops to increase the crop production. Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education, and Dr.Ashok Kumar, OSD to Vice-Chancellor also expressed their views.

Earlier, Dr Khush visited Deptt of Crop Improvement, Agricultural Biotechnology, Advanced Multidisciplinary Veterinary Services and  Farmers' Capacity Building Centre and  will also visit Research Station of the University at Bajaura in Kullu.

University statutory officers, scientists and students from all the constituent colleges attended the programme.

Dr Khush interacting with students and scientists

Dignitaries on the dais

Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial honoring Dr Gurdev Singh Khush

A view of the audience

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Last Updated: March 28, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/111 Dated: 25 March, 2017

 

SAC meetings at KVK,Dhulakuan and KVK,Una

 Frequent interaction between farmers & scientists essential for transfer of technology: Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial

Palampur 25 March.Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University has asked the Krishi Vigyan Kendra(KVK) extension specialists  to lay more frontline demonstrations on such crops which were predominant in their respective districts. He was chairing Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC)meeting  of KVK), Dhaulakuan, near Paonta Sahib(Sirmour) today.While appreciated the farming community of district Sirmour, the Vice-Chancellor underlined the importance of regular interaction between farm scientists and farmers for effective transfer of technology. While underlining the importance of zero budget and organic farming, he asked them to gradually increase the area under organic farming. He also discussed the importance  of Desi cow to propel this type of farming which was very suitable for Himachal Pradesh. He said that animal husbandry was 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 high value cash crops like European vegetables as these have high demand in metros. The Vice-Chancellor said that the farmers should supplement their farm income by mushroom cultivation, bee-keeping and such other avocations. Prof Sarial informed that KVK, Dhaulakuan  has been directed to lay more on-farm trials on cereals, pulses and oilseeds to motivate the farmers to take up farming of such crops on larger scale. He asked the farmers to be in touch with Krishi Vigyan Kendras and Research Stations of the university to get latest information and guidance about scientific farming. "Time to time discussions 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, underlined the need for crop diversification and  judicious use of pesticides in order to prevent damage to the natural eco system. He appreciated  the team of KVK for extending best services to farming community of the district in close association with the various line departments and development agencies. He also elaborated about various extension education activities of the university. Dr R.S.Jamwal, Director of Research, asked the farming community to make use of new technology to increase crop yields. He said that ginger should be included in researchable issues on zero budget farming. Dr Akhilesh Singh,  Programme Coordinator, KVK, Dhaulakuan presented achievements of KVK and proposed action plan for the next year.

District level officers of agriculture and allied departments and progressive farmer-members namely Shri Kundan Singh Shastri, Sh Ravi Swaroop, Smt Jaswinder Kaur and Smt Shakuntla Chauhan also actively participated in the deliberations. Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor visited experimental farm of KVK and Regional Research Station and interacted with staff. SAC of KVK, Una was also held yesterday where Prof.Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, asked farmers to grow  aromatic paddy variety Pusa-1121 which was excellent for export purpose. It will increase their income. Dr.P.K.Mehta , Director of Extension Education; Dr.R.S.Jamwal, Director of Research and Dr.A.R.Khan, Programme Coordinator  also expressed their views. Progressive farmers of the district and officers from development departments were present in the SAC meeting.

 

 

 

 

Last Updated: March 16, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/107 Dated: 16 March, 2017

 

 

Farm varsity to help farmers in protecting their intellectual property rights: Prof A.K.Sarial

 Palampur 16 March . An awareness workshop on "Intellectual Property Rights: Issues and Challenges" for the faculty and post graduate students was organized at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.  Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial , Vice-Chancellor, while inaugurating the workshop, said that his university would extend all help to the farming community to protect their intellectual property rights (IPRs) as they were the ones who have since ages conserved the traditional crop varieties helping the scientific community to develop modern crop varieties.

The Vice-Chancellor while speaking on the genesis and importance of  "Protection of Plant Varieties & Farmers' Right Act 2001 (PPV&FRA)" said that it was a  unique act world over which has acknowledged the tremendous contribution of the farmers and protected their rights. He asked the scientific community and students to create awareness about this act among the stakeholders. He also highlighted the importance of IPR regime in agriculture, veterinary and allied sciences and informed that recently IPR cell has been reconstituted in the university by involving an expert from all constituent colleges. He underlined the need for protection of precious genetic resources through PPV & FRA and intellectual property assets of the university by filling patents and registering trademarks.

Prof Sarial detailed about various provisions of the PPV&FRA, Indian Seed Act 1966, National Gene Fund, Plant Breeder's Rights and Privileges of Farmers and asked participants to fully understand these from the experts.

Dr.R.S.Jamwal,  Director of Research, elaborated  about traditional crop varieties and land races of Himachal Pradesh and need to get theses registered. He informed that the university has framed its IPR policy also.

Dr.H.K.Chaudhary, Chairman, IPR Cell of the university, told that university has already taken initiative to get three patents registered by Indian Patent Office and has filed nine patent applications. He said that trade mark 'Him Palam' has been got registered. Dr.J.K.Sharma, Nodal Officer, PPV&FRA; Dr.K.D.Sharma, Member Secretary, IPR Cell; Dr Sudhir Kochar an expert on IPR and Dr.Ritika Kanwar, Scientist, H.P.State Council for Science, Technology & Environment (SCSTE) spoke on IPR issues and challenges.

Around 125 scientists and students attended the workshop jointly organized by the university and SCSTE.

 

 

 

 

 

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Last Updated: March 10, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/106 Dated: 10 March, 2017

Empower farming community with digital literacy: Prof.A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPAU

Palampur 10 March. To catch up with digital India campaign of  the Govt. of India,  CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University has submitted a project worth Rs. Eight crore  to the Indian Council of Agricultural Research for the  automation of the institution . This was disclosed by Prof.A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, during a closing ceremony of two days training program on  'digital exchange of data and information' under networking of multi- institutional cold desert (CODER) program projects of the Department of Science & Technology, Govt. of India, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor said that useful and quality information should reach farmers in the quickest possible manner to enable them to increase their production in the farms. The farming community must be digitally empowered in technology by digital literacy. He said that the initiative of the government to provide broadband connectivity in all Panchayats in the next three years would have major impact in the farm sector as delivery of services will be transparent and rapid for farmers and rural India residing in 2.5 lakh villages.

Prof A.K.Sarial also launched 'CODER network mobile App' to provide information to all stakeholders of the CODER project. He expressed the hope that it will help in quick delivery of technologies for the socio-economic upliftment of poor and disadvantaged sections of the society. It has been developed by Dr Atul, Project Director (Coordination) and Dr.Pranshuta, Research Associate of CODER network project. Dr Atul told that the University was monitoring and evaluating the work of 14 CODER projects in five states including Himachal Pradesh for which this App has been developed. Dr Suresh Gautam, Principal Investigator told that five principal investigators and their staff took part in the training.

Mr.Satish Kumar, Registrar; Dr Kamlesh Singh, Dr. R.K.Agnihotri and Dinesh Badiyala, all Deans and Dr.Hirday Paul Singh, Joint Director(Information & Public Relations) were present during the programme.

 

Vice-Chancellor Prof A.K.Sarial with trainees and others

 

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Last Updated: March 09, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/105 Dated: 9 March, 2017

Prof A.K.Sarial exhorts scientists to empower farmers with new technology to increase production & double their income

 

Palampur 8 March. Research and Extension Council meetings were held at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today. Prof.A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, chaired both the meeting and asked scientists to accept the emerging challenges and help farmers to increase production with high value crops from decreasing farm land. "For this, the farmers should also come forward to empower themselves by working in cohesion with government and private agencies to utilize available technology," said Prof Sarial.

The Vice-Chancellor informed that the university had played a significant role in improving economy of small and marginal farmers. Impetus has been given to develop useful technology and all out efforts would be made to double the farmers' income as envisaged by the Prime Minister. "Around a dozen enterprises have been identified in this regard and proposal has been submitted to the government", told Prof  A.K.Sarial. The university has developed and transferred technology in agriculture, animal husbandry, etc to the concerned departments and farmers. All eight Krishi Vigyan Kendras(KVKs)  were  working with full vibrancy and work has been initiated on zero budget farming at KVK, Una and KVK, Kullu. He told that Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute (ATARI), Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has sanctioned Rs. Six lakh each to all KVKs for demonstration of integrated farming system. Mini Soil Testing Lab facility has been provided to six KVKs. Prof Sarial also underlined the importance of judicious use of water, post harvest technology and marketing , beekeeping, mushroom cultivation, poultry, animal husbandry, etc. and said that feedback mechanism should be improved to incorporate useful inputs in research and extension education programmes of the university.

Dr. Rajinder Singh Jamwal, Director of Research, informed that eleven improved varieties of different crops like wheat, rice, barley, linseed, tomato, etc have been released and nine new technologies have been recommended for their use by the farmers of Himachal Pradesh. Research projects worth Rs.43 crore were  in operation and projects worth Rs.185 crore have been submitted to various funding agencies. He also elaborated about research achievements in the areas of agricultural sciences, veterinary and animal sciences, home sciences and basic sciences.

 Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education, told that all trainings were being reoriented in consonance with Agricultural Skill Council of India to enhance the quality and impart specific measurable skills in various farm sectors. He said that all KVKs of the university organized awareness programmes on "Pradhan Mantri Fasal Vima Yojna" and around 700 farmers were trained in poly house technology in the recent past. "Twelve villages have been adopted under "Mera Gaon, Mera Gaurav" programme", added Dr Mehta.

Members of Research Council and Extension Councils namely Mrs Usha Kiran Chopra, Dr.R.K.Malik, Dr.Yudhvir Bhardwaj, Dr.N.K.Kaundal, Dr.Chamanjit Kapoor, Deans  Dr Kamlesh Singh, Dr.Dinesh Badyala, Dr R.K.Agnihotri, Dr Ashwani Basandrai and  Dr Promila Kanwar and  progressive farmers  Mr.Partap Negi, Mr.Karam Singh and Mrs Veena Chaudhary, etc also actively participated in the meetings. Registrar Mr Satish Sharma, Comptroller Mr. J.M.Awasthy, Programme coordinators of KVKs and Associate Directors of Research Stations of the University also participated in the meetings.

 

 

 

Last Updated: March 08, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/104 Dated: 7 March, 2017

 

CSKHPAU distributes Gaddi Goat Breeding Bucks to the Progressive Gaddi Goat Farmers

Palampur 7 March. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University provided 14 Gaddi breeding bucks to different progressive goat farmers of Himachal Pradesh, here today. The bucks were provided under the ongoing All India Co-ordinated Research Project on Goat Improvement (Gaddi Field Unit) for breed improvement of the existing Gaddi goats of the state  running in the Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Dr.G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences (COVAS).

Dr. R.S. Jamwal, Director of Research, who distributed the bucks on behalf of the university, appreciated the project team for their hard work under migratory field conditions for the benefit of tribal farmers and advised them to fully utilize the potential of the breeding bucks being provided to them. Dr. R.K. Agnihotri, Dean, COVAS, underlined the utility of the project to the farmers. Dr. P.K. Dogra, Principal Investigator of the project, told that this project was  being implemented under the umbrella of Central Institute for Research on Goats located at Makhdoom, Mathura. He informed that about 1000 pure Gaddi goats have been registered under the project which was being implemented under migratory field conditions by providing strategic breeding, feeding and health control inputs. These bucks have been raised by the Palampur centre after two stages of selection and scientific management and were  intended to  bring about overall breed improvement of the Gaddi goats. Dr.Munshi Kapoor, Assistant Director , Deptt. of Animal Husbandry , Dr YP Thakur, Head of the Department and Drs. Varun Sankhyan, Parveen Sharma and Rajesh Thakur, Project team members, also interacted with farmers.

 

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Last Updated: February 27, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/102 Dated: 27 February, 2017

 

Workshop  on Protection of  Plant Varieties & Farmers Rights Act for KVK Staff

 

Help farmers in registration of traditional crop varieties under PPV&FRA: Prof A.K.Sarial

 

Palampur 27 February . An orientation programme on Protection of Plant Varieties & Farmers' Right Act (PPV&FRA) was organized for all twelve Krishi Vigyan Kendras(KVKs) of  Himachal Pradesh at  CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today.Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial , Vice-Chancellor, while inaugurating the orientation programme, said that a lot of research has been done and KVKs need to play an active role to take new research findings to the farmers' field. He said that since ages, the farming community has conserved the traditional crop varieties helping the scientific community to develop modern crop varieties. "PPV&FRA 2001 was a unique act world over which has acknowledged the tremendous contribution of the farmers and protected their rights", said Prof Sarial and asked KVKs to create awareness about this act among the stakeholders. He also asked them to help farmers in registration of traditional crop varieties and applying for awards.The Vice-Chancellor also detailed about various provisions of the PPV&FRA, Indian Seed Act 1966, National Gene Fund, Plant Breeder's Rights and Privileges of Farmers and asked KVK staff to fully understand these so that farmers were educated properly. He said that intellectual property must be recognized and protected from commercial exploitation by others than those who invented or conserved it. Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education, informed that regional biodiversity fair will be organized in near future. He said that KVKs were plying an active role to make farmers aware about PPV&FRA. He elaborated about traditional crop varieties and land races of Himachal Pradesh and need to get theses registered. Dr.Preeti Mamgain, Senior Scientist from Agricultural Technology Application Centre (ATARI), Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Ludhiana said that 30 awards have been instituted for the farmers under PPV & FRA. Dr.S.K.Gupta, Joint Director, UHF, Solan and Dr.V.K.Shamra, Principal Extension Specialist also expressed their views. Dr.J.K.Sharma, Nodal Officer, PPV&FRA; Dr.H.K.Chaudhary, Head, Deptt of Crop Improvement and Dr.Hirday Paul Singh, Jt. Director (Information & Public Relations) were present during the inaugural ceremony. Around fifty programme coordinators and scientists from eight KVKs of the host university and four KVKs of  UHF, Solan took part in the orientation programmes which was jointly organized by ATARI, ICAR, Ludhiana  and Directorate of Extension Education, CSKHPAU.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last Updated: February 20, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/101 Dated: 19 February, 2017

International conference on canine and feline cardiology

 

Seek help of veterinarians for early diagnose and treatment of pet diseases: Dean, COVAS

 Palampur 19 February. A three days international conference on canine and feline cardiology concluded at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, here today. Delivering his valedictory address, Chief Guest Dr. R.K.Agnihotri, Dean, Dr G.C Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences (COVAS), asked  pet owners to regularly get their pet animals checked-up from veterinarians for early diagnosis and treatment of diseases.  He said that heart diseases in companion pet animals were  common, complex and devastating to the owners and were  silent killers yet regular visits to veterinarians ensured early detection and treatment.The Dean  said that heart diseases were  being diagnosed with increasing modality and were  an important health problem in dogs. Since cardiac diseases could be detected and treated so owners should take their pets to veterinarians for giving long and healthy life to their pets.

Dr. R.K.Agnihotri told  that the Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology offered high quality of clinical care to the patients and has emerged as a centre for specialized trainings and tertiary referral facility.Dr. Adarsh Kumar, Professor and Head-cum-organizing chairman, informed that around fifty delegates from India and abroad took part in the conference. A variety of issues of clinical importance pertaining to veterinary cardiology were discussed. The renowned international experts on Veterinary cardiology, Dr.Clarke E Atkins from North Carolina State University and Dr. Marissa Ames from Colorado State University, USA gave hands-on training to delegates on echocardiography and other diagnostic techniques. Dr.Milind Hatekar, International Coordinator from VOF expressed that they were  looking forward to organize more such continuing education programs at Palampur. The valedictory function was attended by University officers, heads and scientists.

 

 

 

 

Last Updated: February 14, 2017

 

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/100 Dated: 10 February, 2017

Technology and Machinery Demonstration Fair

Adopt Farm mechanization  to reduce drudgery and increase production: Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial

Palampur 10 February. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University organized a Kisan Mela at Jalag, around 25  KMs from here today.

 

Dr. Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, as Chief Guest, while addressing the farming community from the local and surrounding villages, told that farm mechanization can play an active role to reduce farm drudgery and increase production from ever decreasing farm land. He said that his university has developed improved farm machines and tools suitable for the hilly terrain of the state. He said that it was a challenge for the farm officers and scientists to double the income of farmers which they need to accept and come out with technologies to strengthen socio-economic status of farmers. He also spoke on the importance of organic farming, quality of school education, women empowerment, animal husbandry etc and asked farmers to get advice of scientists for scientific farming. As a former student of local Government school, he also shared his reminiscences. The Vice-Chancellor appreciated the role of farm women and exhorted the youngsters to adopt modern farming.

 

Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education said that youngsters need to adopt farming for the prosperity of their families. He said that a large number of trainings were organized on farm based avocations at the university and its Krishi Vigyan Kendras and farmers should come forward to learn new skills  of modern farming.

 

Dr.Rajinder Singh Jamwal, Director of Research, told that research work was on going on farm machinery and tools, poly-houses, renewable energy, ergonomics and safety in agriculture, post harvest technology and such technology can certainly boost farm production.

 

Dr.D.K.Vatsa, Head of Agricultural Engineering department, told that as per the instructions and support from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, such Technology and Machinery Demonstration Fairs have been organized today all over the country. He elaborated about small farm tools to reduce drudgery.

 

Drs.J.K.Sharma,R.S.Rana,Rakesh Gupta and  Radhna Gupta  also elaborated about farm mechanization.

 

Mrs Ritu Dhiman, local village Pardhan, Sudarshan Singh, Kamlesh Rana, O.P.Dhiman,Sirmour Katoch and Gurbachan Singh also spoke and honoured the Vice-Chancellor. Dr.Hirday Paul Singh,Joint Director Information & Public Relations, Agriculture; Officers from the State Department of Agriculture and  villager  also actively took part in the Mela. More than five hundred farmers evinced interest in the Technology and Machinery demonstration exhibition. They also sought answers to their farm related problems from the scientists.

 

Vice-Chancellor visiting exhibition

 

 

 

Local villages honouring Vice-Chancellor Prof A.K.Sarial

 

 

 

A view of the dais and participants

 

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Last Updated: February 09, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/99 Dated: 09 February, 2017

 

 

CSKHPAU helping farmers to supplement their farm income: Prof A.K.Sarial

 

Palampur 9 February. "CSK H.P. Agriculture University was making every effort to help farmers to supplement their farm income", said Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor while inaugurating a six days training programme on mushroom cultivation for fifty farmers, here today.

 

The Vice-Chancellor said that to realize the vision of Prime Minister to double the income of farmers, concerted efforts were required. The University was helping the farmers to adopt farm based avocations like mushroom cultivation, bee-keeping, poultry, fishery, floriculture, vegetable cultivation,  medicinal and aromatic plants, nursery production, dairy farming, poly-house cultivation, plant protection, organic agriculture etc. so that their income was increased. He asked the farmers to supplement their income by getting trained in such avocations. Prof Sarial said that skill development programmes through trainings and demonstrations to the young aspiring farmers and entrepreneurs help them in various income generating professional activities. He also assured them to solve their farm related problems. Prof Sarial said that he himself would like to pay a surprise visit to some of the farmers who get training to see if they had taken up the work or not.

Dr.P.K.Mehta, Director of Extension Education said that a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the University and Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Foundation to train five hundred farmers of Himachal Pradesh in September, last year. Ever since,  around 400 farmers had been trained in seventeen trainings in addition to other regular trainings at Directorate of Extension Education. He said efforts were made to enable farmers to understand integrated agriculture so that some of them may even adopt start up programmes in agri- entrepnurship. Extension specialists Drs Suresh Gautam, Desh Raj Chaudhry, Vinod Sharma, Luv Bhushan  and Dr Hirday Paul Singh, Jt. Director (Information & Public Relations) were present during the inaugural ceremony. Some of the farmers also gave feedback about the status of agriculture their villages. Fifty farmers from the villages of Panchrukhi and Lambagaon blocks are taking part in the training.

 

 

 

 

 

Last Updated: February 02, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/98 Dated: 02 February, 2017

CSKHPAU to implement Rs. 50.35 lakh project for three villages of Baijnath

Palampur 2 February. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR has sanctioned a project worth Rs. 50.35 lakh on "Transfer of improved farm production technologies for enhancement of rural livelihood security amongst the farm households of Kangra district of Himachal  Pradesh" to CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvaviadylaya.

The project has been approved  under "Farmer's First Programme" and funded under Krishi Vigyan Kendra scheme of ICAR to  the Directorate of Extension Education of the University. According to Dr. P.K. Mehta, Director Extension Education, the project will be implemented in Deol, Dharer and Sail villages of Tehsil Baijnath of the district Kangra. The farmers will be educated about improved farm production technologies and they will be provided improved agro inputs. Dr. Suresh Kumar Gautam will be Principal Investigator and Drs. D.R. Chaudhary and Pawan Kumar Sharma will be the Co-Principal Investigators of this project.

Prof.  Ashok  Kumar  Sarial, Vice-Chancellor while appreciating the efforts of the Directorate of Extension Education for getting this project sanctioned, said that the innovative project will enhance the livelihood security of the farmers.

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Last Updated: January 31, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/97 Dated: 31 January, 2017

 

CSKHPAU notifies two percent enhanced DA to its staff & pensioners

 

Palampur 31 Jan. CSK H.P. Agriculture University has enhanced the rate of Dearness Allowance (DA) from the existing rate of 125 per cent to 127 per cent with effect from 1 July, 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 two percent shall be paid in cash with the salary of January payable in February and arrears with effect from July to December, 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 Dearness Relief from 125 per cent to 127 per cent to the pensioners and family pensioners w.e.f July 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: January 28, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/96 Dated: 28 January, 2017

 

Vice-Chancellor inaugurates four smart class rooms in COA

 

Palampur 28 January. Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University inaugurated four smart class rooms in the College of Agriculture, here today.

 These class rooms are part of Lecture Theatre-cum-Examination Hall and are funded by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) to the tune of Rs.2.25 crore. The Vice-Chancellor appreciated that the new classrooms were equipped with modern teaching aids like LCD projectors, computers, microphones, etc. Four class rooms have seating capacity of approximate 500 students. There is potable water facility, attached toilets and one independent academic room also.

Dean Dr Dinesh Badiyala, Estate Officer Er A.K.Chadha, Executive Engineer Er.Ashok Sood, Architect Ashwani Sharma, officers, teachers and students were present during the inaugural ceremony.

 

 

 

Vice-Chancellor Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial inaugurating smart classrooms in the College of Agriculture

 

 

Vice-Chancellor Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial taking a round of the new facilities and students and other present on the occasion

 

 

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Last Updated: January 27, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/95 Dated: 27 January, 2017

 

Republic Day celebrated with enthusiasm at CSKHPAU

 

Palampur 26 January. The 68th Republic Day was celebrated with enthusiasm at CSK H.P. Agriculture University here today. Despite heavy rain and cold weather, a large number of staff and students attended the ceremony. Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor took salute from the impressive parade by the NCC cadets. Later, in his address, he underlined the importance of this historical day and asked the students and staff to serve the nation selflessly. He said that the University will continue to work for the socio-economic development of farming community of Himachal Pradesh. He also appreciated the NCC cadets and Students' Welfare Organization for the ceremony. For the first time, NCC girls wing of the University took part in the parade and a school band from a private school, Chachiyan Nagri also performed alongside NCC contingent of the University.

University staff and students took part in the Republic Day celebrations.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Some pics of the Republic Day celebrations in the University

 

 

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Last Updated: January 12, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/94 Dated: 12 January, 2017

National Youth Day at CSKHPAU

 

Palampur 12 January.  National Youth Day was celebrated at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

Prof. Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, while addressing the students and teachers, underlined the importance of the day and told that this day was being celebrated throughout the country to commemorate the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekanand since 1985. He elaborated   about the immense role of Swamijee in spreading the philosophy of India world over. He asked the younger generation to imbibe the   teachings of Swami Vivekanand.

The Vice-Chancellor said that it was imperative to double the income of farmers in next five years as envisaged by the Prime Minister and directed Heads of all departments in the constituent colleges to submit a concrete proposal on it within a week's time. He emphasized the commitment of the University to help farmers in their socio-economic development.

On this occasion, the Department of Agricultural Economics organized a talk by Prof. H.R.Sharma, Dean, Central University of Himachal Pradesh on "Doubling Farmers' Income".  Dr Sharma highlighted the need to increase the gross income of farmers through increased productivity, reduced input cost, farm diversification, reduction in post harvest losses and remunerative prices.

Some students of the constituent colleges also spoke on the life, philosophy and teachings of Swami Vivekanand.

Dr.Dinesh Badiyala, Dean, College of Agriculture; Dr Ashwani Basandrai, Dean, Post Graduate Studies and  Dr Ashok Kumar, OSD to Vice-Chancellor were present in the function. University teachers and students also attended the programme.

NCC cadets of the university celebrated the day by educating the shopkeepers and general masses of three villages namely Bharmat, Tanda and Banuri about various methods of cashless transactions. Village Pardhans were also present on the occasion.

 

A view of the dais and audience

Vice-Chancellor expressing his views, 

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Last Updated: January 11, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/93 Dated: 11 January, 2017

 

Inter-college Youth Festival concludes with cultural extravaganza at CSKHPAU

Palampur 11 January.  A two days inter-college youth festival concluded with cultural extravaganza at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

Prof. Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, while appreciating the winners of various cultural events, appreciated the students for maintaining and sustaining rich cultural heritage of  Himachal Pradesh and presenting it beautifully in their various performances. He said that despite a busy academic schedule in professional college of his University, the students were full of creativity and talent. The Vice-Chancellor extended his best wishes to the team who will represent the university in inter-university youth festival to be held next month. He also lauded the efforts of Students' Welfare Organization for organizing the festival.

Earlier, Dr Kamlesh Singh, Students' Welfare Officer, informed that around 250 students from four constituent colleges took part in nineteen cultural, literary, theatre and fine arts competitions.

Overall, the College of Agriculture  teams were adjudged first in nine cultural and other events like  Quiz, Extempore, One Act Play, Skit, Mime, Mimicry, Light Vocal Indian, Patriotic Song, Group Song and the College of Home Science teams bagged first position in  Debate, Clay Modeling, Cartooning, Rangoli and the teams of College of Basic Science  were adjudged first in  on- the- spot painting, collage and poster making whereas teams of Dr.G.C.Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Science were declared first in  folk dance, mono-acting and elocution competitions.

All the statutory officers, teachers, non-teachers and students attended the concluding ceremony.

 

Students giving performance in folk dnce completions

 Prof. A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor addressing the students and others  

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Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/93 Dated: 10January, 2017

 

Vice-Chancellor Prof A.K.Sarial inaugurates inter-college Youth Festival

 Palampur 10 January.  "Those who perform on stage also have good chances to excel in life", said Prof. Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, while inaugurating inter-college youth festival at CSK H.P. Agriculture University, here today.

The Vice-Chancellor said that extra-curricular activities were an essential component of academic activities which enable students to exhibit their talent and creativity. He advised that all students must take part in any of the cultural or sports activity to have a feeling of comradeship, brotherhood, oneness and develop a sense of belonging. He told that some initiatives have been taken for the overall development of students' personality and sharpen their competitive skills. Already, a mechanism has been put in place where some of the teachers have volunteered and taking extra classes to prepare the students for various national level competitions. He expressed the hope that such efforts and hard work were bound to bear fruits.

Earlier, Dr Kamlesh Singh, Students' Welfare Officer, said that around 150 students from four constituent colleges will be taking part in nineteen cultural, literary, theatre and fine arts competitions like dances, songs, one act plays, skits, debates, poster making, clay modeling,  etc. A team to represent the University for National Level Youth Festival will be selected based on the performance of students.

All the statutory officers, teachers, non-teachers and students attended the inaugural ceremony held in the University auditorium.

Prof. A.K.Sarial, Vice-Chancellor lightening the lamp and addressing the participants

 

 A view of the audience   

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Last Updated: January 02, 2017

Media Cell

Press Release

No. QSD/MC/91 Dated: 02 January, 2017

 

CSKHPAU Vice-Chancellor's New Year Address to Staff & Students

Prof A.K.Sarial asks staff to make 'excellence' a buzz word in their assigned duties

Palampur 2 January. In his new year address to teachers, non-teachers and students Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, CSK H.P. Agriculture University has asked its staff members to make 'excellence' a buzz word in their assigned duties.

During his address here today, the  Vice-Chancellor said that much has been done last year yet a lot of accomplishments were to be made this year to serve the farming community effectively. He told that work culture must be improved so that the assigned mandate of teaching, research and extension education is carried out outstandingly. Prof Sarial informed that the university need to follow National Ranking Framework criteria of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) for state farm universities and teachers should work hard and put extra hours so that students win maximum fellowships and attain top positions in competitive examinations conducted by the ICAR and other national and international institutions. Recently, the university has made efforts to guide and prepare students for such competitions by designating a programme director and four coordinators for providing students coaching, counseling and placements services. Students' advisory system has been strengthened and they will be provided wide academic exposure. He declared that forty posts of teachers will be filled-up soon besides appointing 24 new head of departments. 

Prof Sarial told that each faculty member should write a wining research project  to seek funding and a committee has been constituted on project formulation to guide faculty members to improve the quality and  presentation of projects before funding agencies. He told that 25 research projects worth Rs. Seven crore were sanctioned after his joining in August last year and 69 projects worth Rs. 177 crore have been submitted for funding to various funding. He said that on-going research projects will be effectively monitored.  He asked each faculty members to have at last one adhoc research project.

Prof Sarial appreciated the extension education activities and told that 514 training programmes were organized with the participation of around 18000 farmers and technologies on the aspects of protected cultivation, mushroom cultivation, apiculture, floriculture, etc have been disseminated besides formations of Self Help Groups throughout the state. He also appreciated media for highlighting and making public aware about his major initiatives for the students, staff and new ventures like automation of offices and cashless working in the university.

He said that three new student hostels will be constructed and court cases will be reviewed for mutual settlements to save time and money for the employees and the university. He asked the comptroller to make all out efforts to get additional grant of Rs. 47 crore to meet out the requisite financial needs of the university.

Later, Vice-Chancellor hosted tea to those students and staff members who have qualified for national competitions, won national awards or submitted research projects worth Rs.one crore or more and who were rated outstanding in their work.

Statutory officers, teachers, non- teachers and post- graduate students attended the address by the Vice-Chancellor.

 

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