MPUAT’s 19th Convocation Highlights Urgent Need to Curb Chemical Use in Agriculture: Governor

Udaipur:The 19th Convocation Ceremony of Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology (MPUAT) was held in a dignified and solemn atmosphere at the RNT Medical College Auditorium on Monday. Addressing the gathering, Governor of Rajasthan, Shri Haribhau Bagade, expressed serious concern over the indiscriminate use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides in agriculture, warning that its long-term consequences could prove disastrous for future generations.

The Governor noted that while the current generation is already bearing the health burden, continued excessive chemical use could push society into a deeper crisis. Referring to emerging studies and health data, he cautioned that cancer cases are rising steadily, with projections suggesting that one in every eight individuals may face cancer in the coming years if corrective measures are not taken.

Degrees, Medals and a Message for the Future

During the ceremony, the Governor and other dignitaries awarded 1,181 degrees and 44 gold medals across various faculties. Women students outperformed their male counterparts by securing 27 of the 44 gold medals, a fact the Governor described as a strong indicator of women’s growing leadership in science and agriculture.

Calling the convocation not an end but a beginning, the Governor urged graduating students to combine scientific innovation with social responsibility. He emphasised the need to develop high-yielding, protein-rich crop varieties to meet the demands of a growing population over the next 50 to 100 years.

From Food Security to Global Responsibility

Recalling India’s agricultural journey, Governor Bagade said that until the 1980s the country depended on food imports, whereas today India remains self-reliant despite a population of 1.4 billion, with surplus food stocks. He stressed that rising consumer awareness and purchasing power have created new opportunities for organic and natural farming, offering both health and economic benefits.

Highlighting Rajasthan’s position as the country’s second-largest milk producer, the Governor advocated the conservation of indigenous cattle breeds, stating that native cow milk is nutritionally superior and holds immense economic potential for farmers.

Research, Innovation and National Missions

The Governor praised MPUAT’s research achievements, noting that the university has secured 57 patents and design registrations, including eight recent patents, and has developed 57 advanced agricultural technologies and five improved crop varieties. He encouraged the university to intensify fundamental research and pursue patents for region-specific crops.

Referring to the National Edible Oil–Oilseeds Mission (2024–25 to 2030–31) launched by the Government of India, the Governor said agricultural universities would play a decisive role in making India self-reliant in oilseed production. He underscored that organic and natural farming are no longer alternatives but essential pathways for sustainable agriculture.

Agriculture Minister’s Call to Youth

Agriculture and Horticulture Minister Shri Karodi Lal Meena, the guest of honour, reminded students of the timeless slogan “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan,” urging young agricultural professionals to dedicate their knowledge to farmer welfare. He said true service to the nation lies in ensuring farmers’ prosperity and resilience against climate and market challenges.

Citing official data, the Minister said India’s foodgrain production rose from 251.54 million tonnes in 2015–16 to 357.73 million tonnes in 2024–25, reflecting rapid agricultural growth under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. He encouraged students to explore opportunities in agri-startups, value addition, food processing, and agri-business incubation, reiterating the government’s vision of creating job creators, not job seekers.

Launch of New Crop Varieties

The Governor also unveiled five newly developed crop varieties by MPUAT scientists—Pratap Groundnut-4, Pratap Hybrid Maize-6, Pratap Sorghum-2510, Pratap Isabgol-1 and Pratap Asaliya-1—marking another milestone in the university’s contribution to agricultural innovation.

A Global Vision for Food and Ecology

Convocation guest Prof. Bhagwati Prasad Verma, Chairperson of the UNESCO-run Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Peace and Sustainable Development, warned that declining green cover, vanishing biodiversity and excessive chemical interventions are disrupting fragile ecosystems. He said that by optimising water resources and promoting value-added agricultural products, India has the potential to feed nearly two-thirds of the world’s population while significantly increasing agriculture’s contribution to GDP.