OUAT Celebrates 65th Foundation Day, Emphasises Technology-Driven and Climate-Resilient Farming

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) observed its 65th Foundation Day at Krushi Shiksha Sadan on Sunday, with policymakers and agriculture experts calling for stronger farmer support, greater use of technology and wider adoption of climate-resilient farming practices.

Deputy Chief Minister and OUAT Pro-Chancellor Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, who attended the event as the chief guest, said the state government was taking several measures aimed at improving farmers’ livelihoods and helping them achieve their goals. Addressing concerns over fertiliser supply, he said sufficient stocks were available across Odisha and farmers need not worry about shortages.

Fisheries and Animal Resources Development and MSME Minister Gokulananda Mallik stressed the pivotal role of farmers in Odisha’s economic development. He also called for increased participation of young people in agriculture, saying their involvement could play an important role in efforts to enhance farmers’ incomes.

Agriculture Commissioner-cum-Secretary Sachin Ramchandra Jadhav emphasised the importance of shifting towards scientific and climate-smart agricultural practices. He urged OUAT to become a testing ground for emerging technologies such as drones, robotics and sensor-based systems that can improve efficiency and productivity in farming.

OUAT Vice-Chancellor Professor Pravat Kumar Roul highlighted the university’s long-standing role in agricultural education, research and extension services. He said OUAT would continue its efforts to support farmers, strengthen the agriculture sector and achieve further milestones.

The foundation day celebrations also featured the release of 37 new publications and the launch of several digital initiatives. A number of new facilities, including Vidyarthi Bhavan, Udhyamita Bhavan, Bhubaneswaree Girls’ Hostel and a new Veterinary Complex, were virtually inaugurated.

As part of the programme, 33 women agricultural entrepreneurs were felicitated for their contributions. An agricultural fair was also organised, displaying farm produce brought from various districts of Odisha.

The university also honoured students, faculty members, staff and institutions for their outstanding achievements. Samikhya Pal and Prateek Rath were recognised as the Best Female Graduate and Best Male Graduate, respectively, from the College of Agriculture, Bhawanipatna.

Among the faculty and staff awardees, Dr Sanjay Kumar Roul was named Best Teacher, Debadatta Sethi Best Scientist, Dabanagere Lenka Best Extension Scientist and Dr Kabita Sethi Best Woman Scientist. Dr Debra Meher received the Best Technical Staff award, while Saroj Kumar Nayak was honoured as the Best Ministerial Staff.

In the institutional category, AICRP on Linseed was adjudged the Best AICRP, KVK Mayurbhanj-II received the Best KVK award, while AICRP on Cashew was recognised as the Best Seed and QPM Production Unit.

The event commenced with a welcome address by Professor Sushanta Kumar Swain, Director of the Directorate of Agricultural Extension Education. OUAT Registrar Pratibha Dora delivered the vote of thanks.