Obtain consent for opening new agricultural universities; ensure quality education: ICAR to states

NEW DELHI: Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Secretary and Director General Himanshu Pathak has written to the Chief Secretaries of the states regarding agricultural education policy of the states. In the letter, ICAR highlights that the quality of agricultural education is being negatively affected due to unsystematic expansion and lack of planning in the establishment of agricultural universities and colleges by the states.

"No doubt, State Agricultural Universities (SAUs) have contributed significantly in the journey of unparallel growth that India has achieved in agricultural sector. However, recently it has been noticed that performance of SAUs is affected by the proliferation of Universities and establishing new Universities mainly due to carving out from the existing Universities without adequate planning, infrastructure, teachers and meagre allocation of resources", ICAR letter read.

The letter also mentions that the state governments are setting up new agricultural universities and colleges without the advice and consent of ICAR. This is likely to adversely affect the quality of agricultural education, and it may have adverse effects on the future farmers and agricultural scientists of the country, the letter added.

ICAR asks states to be cautious in setting up agricultural universities

ICAR Secretary Himanshu Pathak advised the Chief Secretaries to proceed carefully when setting up agricultural universities and to consult ICAR before making any decisions. He emphasised that concentrating agricultural education in traditional and specialised institutions would be a step in the right direction.

ICAR in the letter emphasised that the objective of agricultural education goes beyond just theoretical learning; it must also encompass practical experience and familiarity with modern techniques. Without this, the development of students will be incomplete, potentially hindering the progress of the nation's agricultural sector.

The letter gave clear signals to state governments that agricultural education must prioritise quality and expertise, as failing to do so could impact the future of students. The central government has taken a strong stance on this matter, urging states to rethink their decisions.

All state governments adhere to ICAR's recommendations