07-04-2026:Governor attended as Chief Guest at the 37th Convocation Ceremony of Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar

Lok Bhavan Uttarakhand-Information Wing
Press Note

Lok Bhavan Dehradun / Pantnagar 07 April, 2026

The Governor, Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (Retd), attended as Chief Guest at the 37th Convocation Ceremony of Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar. On this occasion, Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Ganesh Joshi and Member of Parliament (Nainital) Ajay Bhatt were present as distinguished guests, while Registrar Dr. Deepa Vinay was also on the dais.

During the event, the Governor inaugurated the Student Market at the university. Addressing the gathering after the inauguration, he stated that such initiatives promote entrepreneurial spirit among students and encourage them towards self-reliance. He appreciated the quality and innovation of products developed by the university.

In his address, the Governor highlighted the significance of the 37th convocation, describing it as a symbol of fulfillment and higher purpose. Emphasizing the concept of a “New Era,” he encouraged students to contribute towards the vision of Viksit Bharat, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and India as a global leader. He noted that modern technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, robotics, cyber technology, and space science are rapidly transforming the world, making the role of youth increasingly crucial.

The Governor appreciated the achievements of the university’s alumni, noting their contributions across the globe, including their role in the Green Revolution. He also commended the university’s work in areas such as honey production, millets (Shri Anna), and aroma-based products, highlighting their importance for agriculture and health. Referring to the COVID-19 pandemic, he stressed the importance of balanced lifestyles and nutrition.

Addressing the students, the Governor stated that they are no longer just degree holders but responsible citizens and future leaders. He encouraged them to become job creators rather than job seekers and to explore opportunities in startups, agri-business, and food processing. He emphasized adopting the concepts of “Lab to Land” and “File to Field.” A total of 1,395 students were awarded degrees, while 36 meritorious students received gold, silver, and bronze medals. He described these achievements as the result of collective efforts by students, parents, and teachers. Concluding his address, he urged students to uphold the principle of “Nation First” and actively contribute to nation-building.

Agriculture Minister Ganesh Joshi described Pantnagar Agricultural University as the foundation of India’s agricultural future, noting its historic role in advancing the Green Revolution. He highlighted the university’s development of improved crop varieties such as Pant Rice, Pant Wheat, Pant Maize, Pant Mustard, and Pant Soybean, which continue to benefit farmers nationwide. He also spoke about various central and state government schemes supporting farmers, including the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi and state initiatives promoting horticulture, organic farming, and irrigation.

Vice Chancellor Dr. Manmohan Singh Chauhan elaborated on the university’s achievements, stating that it represents the historic foundation of the Green Revolution. He mentioned that renowned scientist Norman Borlaug recognized it as the birthplace of the Green Revolution. The university has been awarded the Sardar Patel Outstanding Institution Award by ICAR three times. Over the past 66 years, it has made significant contributions in agriculture, animal husbandry, dairy, medical sciences, and fisheries.

He further informed that the university has awarded degrees to 46,643 students to date and developed 361 advanced agricultural technologies. In 2025, the university secured the 209th position in the QS World Rankings. It received approximately ₹4.5 crore in funding from ICAR for 2025–26, supporting farmer training and scholarships. Currently, 4,882 students are enrolled, and 324 research projects worth around ₹83 crore are ongoing. The university has published 348 research papers and filed 16 patents, with 9 already granted. Under agricultural extension, two major farmer fairs were organized with participation of over 50,000 farmers, along with distribution of 7,000 quintals of seeds and organization of 852 training programs. A total of 53 scholarship schemes have benefited 1,693 students.

The convocation ceremony was conducted by Registrar Dr. Deepa Vinay, who also delivered the vote of thanks.

Among those present were Vice Chancellor of Veer Madho Singh Bhandari Uttarakhand Technical University Dr. Tripta Thakur, Vice Chancellor of Soban Singh Jeena University Prof. Satpal Singh, Vice Chancellor of Uttarakhand Open University Prof. Naveen Chandra Lohani, Vice Chancellor of Kumaun University Prof. Diwan Singh Rawat, Director Research Dr. S.K. Verma, renowned folk singer Padma Shri Dr. Madhuri Barthwal, members of the university’s governing and academic councils, faculty members, officials, students, and senior district administration officers.

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