Bhagalpur: The 17th foundation day of Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour, was marked on Wednesday with the showcasing of more than 53 improved crop varieties and 79 agricultural technologies developed by its scientists and researchers.Speaking on the occasion, BAU vice-chancellor D R Singh highlighted the university’s 16-year journey in agricultural education, research and extension services. He said BAU had established a national identity through its work in these fields and its efforts to take modern farm technologies and services to farmers.“The university’s objective is not only to provide quality agricultural education but also to increase farmers’ income by taking scientific research to their fields, modernising agriculture and inspiring youth towards agricultural entrepreneurship,” Singh said.He said BAU scientists were working on modern farming techniques, climate-resilient agriculture, natural resource conservation, nutritional security, value addition, agro-processing, digital agriculture and artificial intelligence-based education.Referring to the university’s achievements, Singh said more than 53 improved crop varieties and 79 agricultural technologies had been developed by BAU scientists. These, he said, had helped optimise agricultural production, increase farmers’ income and promote agri-based entrepreneurship.Singh also highlighted the university’s work through its Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and other extension services. He said BAU had received a Grade ‘A’ accreditation from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) and also from Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The university has also maintained a presence in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) rankings in agriculture and allied subjects, he said.Rural development and information and public relations minister Shrawan Kumar lauded BAU’s academic and research work, saying Bihar could establish a global presence in agricultural education and the promotion of farm products.Governor-cum-chancellor of universities Syed Ata Hasnain and agriculture minister Vijay Kumar Sinha, who were scheduled to attend the event, could not reach Sabour due to inclement weather. They addressed the gathering virtually from Patna and lauded BAU’s achievements.JD(U) MP Ajay Kumar Mandal, MLAs Shubhanand Mukesh and other public representatives, agricultural scientists, academicians, officials, progressive farmers and students attended the event.
