Vidyapeeth University to Implement MPUAT Model in 100 Villages

Udaipur,(Dr.Latika Vyas0 Janardan Rai Nagar Rajasthan Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) will soon sign an MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) with Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology (MPUAT), Udaipur to promote agricultural education. The university plans to adopt 100 villages, following the MPUAT model, to implement comprehensive development projects. This announcement was made by Vidyapeeth University Vice-Chancellor Colonel Prof. Shiv Singh Sarangdevot during a felicitation ceremony marking the completion of his 12-year tenure.

In a grand ceremony held at the MPUAT Vice-Chancellor’s office, Vice-Chancellor Dr. Ajit Kumar Karnataka welcomed Prof. Sarangdevot with a traditional turban and garland, congratulating him on his remarkable achievements over the past twelve years. Senior officials from MPUAT, including Dr. R.A. Kaushik, Dr. P.K. Singh, Dr. Lokesh Gupta, Financial Controller Mr. Vinay Bhati, Dr. S.K. Intodia, Dr. V. Nepalia, and Dr. Latika Vyas, also honored Prof. Sarangdevot.

Prof. Sarangdevot reflected on the establishment of Rajasthan Vidyapeeth in 1937 by Shri Janardan Rai Nagar (Jannubhai) with the vision of bringing education to the Mewar-Wagad region and integrating promising students into the mainstream of development. Starting with a small number of students, the university has grown into a large institution with around 10,000 students.

He emphasized that India is an agrarian country and neglecting agriculture is not an option. Vidyapeeth University has initiated an agriculture faculty where over 500 students are currently studying. Additionally, the university offers essential and employment-oriented courses like Pharmacy, B.Ed., and Homeopathy, and has also established women's colleges to empower women through education. The focus on women’s empowerment and agricultural education is crucial for bringing rural talents to the forefront. The collaboration with MPUAT aims to provide Vidyapeeth students with practical knowledge and technical expertise through institutional and technological transfers facilitated by the Directorate of Extension Education and Krishi Vigyan Kendras.

Prof. Sarangdevot highlighted the university's continuous efforts in education, achieving numerous milestones. All courses offered by Vidyapeeth University are duly recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC). The university has also received an 'A' grade from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) and aims to set new benchmarks in the future.

**Agriculture as a Priority for Universal Welfare**
MPUAT Vice-Chancellor Dr. Ajit Kumar Karnataka acknowledged the remarkable achievements of Rajasthan Vidyapeeth Deemed to be University. Institutions like Vidyapeeth and Vidyabhavan have consistently promoted education in the Mewar-Wagad region, yielding significant results.

He pointed out that there are approximately 80 universities in the state, including government, private, and deemed universities. He stressed that integrating agriculture into the educational framework of all universities is essential for the holistic development of villages, cities, the state, and the entire country. Rajasthan Vidyapeeth University's initiative to collaborate with MPUAT is commendable, and MPUAT is eager to support this endeavor. Highlighting the work done in the adopted villages of Brahmanon ki Hunder and Madar, Dr. Karnataka urged all universities to identify and adopt nearby villages to foster comprehensive development. With 80 universities actively participating in village development, the results will be meaningful and impactful.