Pusa, Bihar | July 17, 2025 —Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan today attended the 4th convocation ceremony of Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa. On this landmark occasion, the Minister championed the importance of innovation and organic farming as key pillars for India’s agricultural future. He also inaugurated the newly constructed Vikramshila Hostel and the Aryavart International Guest House, and released two significant publications — “Pusa Bihar: The Birthplace of Agricultural Research and Education” and a “Textbook on Natural Farming.”
“Promote Innovation and Natural Farming to Secure India’s Agricultural Future”
Addressing a packed auditorium of students, faculty, and dignitaries, Shri Chouhan emphasized the need for innovation, natural farming, and increased productivity in agriculture. “The future of Indian agriculture lies in the hands of our youth,” he said, urging graduates to “work hard, aim high, and revolutionise the sector.”
Calling Samastipur the gateway to Mithila, he paid homage to the region’s cultural legacy and linked the mission of agricultural transformation to India’s civilisational roots. He remembered Dr. Rajendra Prasad and Karpoori Thakur, and praised Bihar for its rich talent and commitment to hard work.
Key Announcements and Achievements Highlighted
Shri Chouhan outlined major accomplishments in the agricultural sector over the past 11 years:
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40% increase in agricultural production
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Free food grains distributed to over 80 crore citizens
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Basmati rice exports valued at ₹50,000 crore
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Formation of the Makhana Board by the Government of India
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Growth in maize, litchi, and makhana cultivation in Bihar
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Launch of Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhanya Yojana, targeting 100 districts to boost productivity
He reiterated the importance of mechanisation and startup culture, especially in small and marginal farming, to modernise the sector and improve per-hectare yield.
Agriculture Is India’s Economic Backbone
In his rousing address, the Union Minister described agriculture as the “backbone of the Indian economy” and said that farmers are its soul. He called on the Ministry and academic institutions to work in tandem to bring technology closer to farmers, highlighting efforts already underway.
He also placed strong emphasis on natural farming as essential for soil health and sustainable development, and said universities must play a key role in translating research into actionable practices at the grassroots.
University’s Role in Shaping Agricultural Innovation
Praising Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University as the “Mother of Research,” Shri Chouhan urged students and faculty to become torchbearers of India’s agri-revolution. “I am always eager to hear new ideas from our young minds,” he said, as he lauded the institution’s ongoing contributions to national food security and academic excellence.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The ceremony was graced by several senior leaders including:
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Ramnath Thakur, Union Minister of State for Agriculture
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Vijay Sinha, Deputy Chief Minister and Agriculture Minister of Bihar
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Maheshwar Hazari, Minister of Information & Public Relations, Bihar
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Shambhavi, Member of Parliament from Samastipur
A Legacy of Learning and Innovation
Established as a central university in 2016, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University has its origins as Rajendra Agricultural University (1970), and today stands among India’s premier institutions for agricultural research, innovation, and education. With a mission aligned with India’s development goals, the university continues to play a pivotal role in empowering farmers and shaping future-ready agricultural policies.
Source: PIB
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