Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurated the 15-day Student Induction Program, 'Deeksharambh,' at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), Shalimar campus, on the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The event, aptly named 'Anekta Mein Ekta Diwas' (Unity in Diversity Day), was celebrated as a tribute to the 'Iron Man of India.'
Addressing the gathering, Lt Governor Sinha praised SKUAST-K's transformation over the last few years, turning it into a "Mini-India" with students from across the country and abroad. He emphasized that the diverse student body from states like Arunachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and international locales is the real strength of the nation.
The Lt Governor commended the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for realizing Sardar Patel's unfulfilled dreams, allowing J&K and SKUAST-K to emerge as one of the top agricultural universities in the country. He stressed the vital role of students in contributing to India’s agricultural growth and called for a 5% annual growth rate in the sector, along with a focus on 'Smart Agriculture.'
Highlighting the advancements in the agriculture sector, Sinha pointed to the significant increase in the agricultural budget, the growth of agri-tech startups, and the potential of Agriculture 4.0 in research, technology, and innovation. He urged students to explore opportunities at SKUAST-K’s incubation center and be proactive in realizing their ideas.
The Lt Governor also appreciated the students' cultural performances, reflecting India's rich diversity, and visited the newly developed Chrysanthemum Garden and food stalls showcasing diverse cuisines from across India.
In his concluding message, the Lt Governor urged students to face challenges with resilience, transform failures into opportunities, and move forward.
Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-K, Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai, welcomed the guests and highlighted the role of Sardar Patel in uniting the country, further emphasizing the university’s student diversity and achievements.