Governor Kalraj Mishra expressed concerns on Saturday over the current state of agriculture, stating that the focus on commercialisation and high production has rendered the sector non-profitable. Mishra shared these insights as the chief guest at the 5th convocation ceremony of the Agriculture University, where he urged the development of mechanisms to ensure agriculture’s profitability across the country.
Convocation Ceremony Highlights
During the ceremony, Governor Mishra awarded 165 graduate degrees, 18 post-graduate degrees, 3 PhDs, and 8 gold medals to top-performing students. His speech underscored the importance of academic and practical advancements in agriculture to meet the evolving needs of the industry.
Call for Sustainable Agricultural Practices
Mishra emphasized the necessity for universities to play a pivotal role in preserving soil fertility and developing modern versions of indigenous seeds. He highlighted the importance of adopting climate-based agricultural practices while preserving the traditional wisdom of Indian farming. This approach, according to Mishra, would help sustain long-term productivity and environmental health.
Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture
The governor also stressed the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in agriculture. “AI can significantly reduce the dependency on manual processes and enhance the efficiency of farm operations,” Mishra stated. He explained that AI aids in selecting appropriate seeds based on regional weather and climate conditions, providing farmers with accurate weather forecasts and thereby boosting production.
Looking Forward
Governor Mishra’s address underscored a comprehensive strategy to revitalize agriculture through a blend of traditional practices and modern technology. By focusing on sustainability, soil health, and AI integration, the agricultural sector can look forward to a more profitable and efficient future.