Inauguration of ₹9 Crore Agricultural Building by Agriculture Minister Dr. Kirori Lal Meena

Udaipur, Agriculture Minister of Rajasthan Dr. Kirori Lal Meena inaugurated a state-of-the-art agricultural building constructed at a cost of ₹9 crore at the constituent College of Agriculture under Rajasthan Vidyapeeth University. The inauguration ceremony was conducted in the presence of the university's Vice Chancellor Col. Prof. Shiv Singh Sarangdevot and Chancellor Bhawarlal Gurjar.

Dr. Meena emphasized that with the changing times, it is not just agriculture but education and all sectors that require transformation. He stated that today’s students must be equipped not only with technical and vocational skills but also with value-based, environmentally conscious, and nation-oriented education. He appreciated Vidyapeeth's efforts in promoting this holistic model.

Highlighting the importance of discipline in achieving professional and economic success, Dr. Meena remarked that many welfare schemes from both the central and state governments are meant for farmers, but there is a need to ensure their effective implementation at the grassroots. He called upon institutions like Vidyapeeth to act as bridges between policymakers and farmers.

Dr. Meena also remarked that the food of the poor has now become the preference of the wealthy, with traditional dishes being served first in high-end hotels. He stressed the need to serve the underprivileged with dignity and work toward equality in access and opportunity.

He warned against the over-dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, pointing out how they are degrading soil fertility and causing widespread health problems among the population. He advocated for a shift toward organic, natural, and GAP (Good Agricultural Practices) based farming to restore soil health and ensure food safety.

Combining Tradition with Innovation – Prof. Sarangdevot
Vice Chancellor Prof. S.S. Sarangdevot stated that the university is committed to developing a model of agricultural education that integrates traditional Indian farming systems with modern technological innovations. Vidyapeeth’s School of Agricultural Sciences focuses on sustainable farming, biodiversity conservation, low-cost production, and the economic upliftment of rural and tribal communities.

Organic Farming and Nilgai Menace – Bhawarlal Gurjar
Presiding over the event, Chancellor Bhawarlal Gurjar highlighted the deteriorating quality of land due to excessive chemical usage and advocated for the adoption of organic and traditional farming. He also stressed the importance of providing accessible markets for organic produce. Addressing local issues, he pointed out that the biggest challenge for farmers in the Mewar region is the destruction of crops by nilgai (blue bulls) and called for subsidies to assist with fencing small land holdings.

Cultural Performances and Book Launch
The program began with a Guard of Honour by NCC cadets, followed by a ceremonial welcome of Dr. Meena and other guests with garlands and floral showers. A tree plantation was carried out in the campus in honor of “Mother Earth,” and students presented colorful cultural performances on Rajasthani folk songs.

On the occasion, guests unveiled two publications: “Shanti, Vichar evam Kriya,” a book published by the B.Ed. College, and a detailed agricultural handbook. Dr. Meena also visited the campus museum and laboratories, appreciating their efforts in advancing agricultural education.

Distribution of Equipment to Farmers
Selected farmers were provided with sprayers and other tools for pest and disease management, while women farmers received agricultural implements to ease their fieldwork.

Distinguished Presence
The ceremony was graced by notable personalities including social worker Moolchand Soni, Dr. Kaushal Nagda, Dr. Tarun Shrimali, Prof. Mahendra Singh Agariya, Mohabbat Singh Rupakhedi, Dr. Yuvraj Singh Rathore, Dr. Paras Jain, Mayurdhwaj Singh, Nana Vaya, Lalit Talesra, Dr. Dharmendra Rathore, Prof. Saroj Garg, and several other deans, directors, and esteemed citizens of Udaipur.

The program was conducted by Dr. Harish Chaubisa, and the vote of thanks was delivered by Prof. I.J. Mathur.