#### MPUAT’s 26th Foundation Day Celebrated with Grandeur

Udaipur,  Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology (MPUAT) celebrated its 26th Foundation Day with great enthusiasm at the Rajasthan College of Agriculture auditorium. The Chief Guest, Dr. Bhagwati Prasad Saraswat, Acting Vice Chancellor of Kota Agriculture University and Mohanlal Sukhadia University, emphasized that southern Rajasthan, with its tribal-dominated population, unique soil structure, climatic conditions, and small land holdings, requires region-specific programmes for the upliftment of marginal and tribal farmers.

He noted that a Vice Chancellor’s tenure of three years is a period of responsibility and introspection. “Foundation Day is the time for self-evaluation — to take pride in achievements and plan for unfinished goals,” he said. Dr. Saraswat expressed confidence that under the dynamic leadership of the newly appointed Vice Chancellor, Dr. Pratap Singh, MPUAT will achieve new milestones in the coming years.

Presiding over the event, Dr. Pratap Singh said it was an auspicious coincidence that the Foundation Day fell on Devuthani Ekadashi. He described the six former Vice Chancellors present on the dais as “divine personalities,” saying, “Today all gods are awake.” He asserted that his focus will remain on both education and skill development, encouraging students to pursue their degrees with dedication and inspire others.

Acknowledging challenges in human resource and financial management, Dr. Singh mentioned the “three Ps” — Person, Pay, and Pension — as major administrative concerns. He added humorously that earlier the saying was ‘Jal bin sab soon’ (Without water, everything is barren), but today it feels more like ‘Dhan bin sab soon’ (Without funds, everything is barren). He also urged agricultural scientists to contribute toward realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, emphasizing innovation in research, education, and outreach, with special attention to natural and eco-friendly farming.

Six Former Vice Chancellors Graced the Event
Outgoing Vice Chancellor Dr. Ajit Kumar Karnatak, in his address, highlighted that MPUAT, after Jobner, stands as Rajasthan’s leading agricultural university. “In the last three years, MPUAT secured 45 patents and now holds 58 in total — among the highest in the country,” he said, adding that all Krishi Vigyan Kendras under MPUAT are ISO-certified, with remarkable achievements in solar energy, smart village projects, and other fields.

Former Vice Chancellor Dr. Uma Shankar Sharma called for the revival of discontinued research projects and diploma courses and suggested reinstating the annual Flower Show held every February. He emphasized the importance of promoting One District – One Product and Local for Vocal initiatives.

Former ICAR Director General and ex-MPUAT Vice Chancellor Dr. N.S. Rathore, along with Dr. S.L. Mehta, urged the university community to focus on opportunities rather than limitations. “We already stand ahead of many universities. The goal should be to become the nation’s best agricultural university through consistent, focused effort,” they said.

Former Vice Chancellor Dr. B.L. Verma described agriculture as not just a profession but a culture, noting that 60% of India’s population depends on it directly or indirectly. Senior academic Dr. V.B. Singh recalled the significant role of Thakur Gulab Singh Shaktawat in establishing MPUAT in Udaipur and stressed the need for “good and sincere teachers,” which, he remarked, are becoming increasingly rare.

The event began with floral tributes to Maharana Pratap and renowned agricultural scientist Dr. A. Rathore. Director of Research Dr. Arvind Verma presented a detailed report on the university’s 26-year journey and achievements. The welcome address was delivered by RCA Dean Dr. M.K. Mahla, while the proceedings were conducted by Dr. Vishakha Bansal.

Book Releases
Two books were released on the occasion — Fruit and Vegetable Preservation and Processing by Dr. Nikita Wadhawan and Dr. Lokesh Gupta, and Beyond Rice: Insights from Crop Diversification by Dr. Hari Singh and Dr. Arvind Verma.