Governor highlights innovation at IGKV convocation

Raipur, May 15, 2026: Chhattisgarh Governor Ramen Deka said value addition-based production is essential for rapid economic growth, noting that nearly 80% of Chhattisgarh’s economy is agriculture-based and cultivable land is continuously shrinking, making higher output from less land a priority. He was speaking at the 11th convocation of Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya (IGKV), Raipur, where he attended in his capacity as Chancellor.Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai attended the ceremony as chief guest. Agriculture Minister Ram Vichar Netam and former Director of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, and noted scientist Dr Ashok Kumar Singh were present as distinguished guests.Degrees and medals were awarded to students who passed in the academic year 2024–25. A total of 1,880 students received degrees, including 128 Ph.D. scholars, 518 postgraduate students, and 1,234 undergraduate students. Merit holders received 13 gold, 7 silver, and 2 bronze medals.In his presidential address, Governor Deka congratulated the graduating students and medal recipients, describing convocation as a milestone that marks the beginning of a new phase. He said agriculture is increasingly driven by science, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship, citing the growing use of artificial intelligence, drones, satellite mapping, precision farming, climate-adaptive technologies, biotechnology, and data analytics.He said India is also moving quickly in this direction, pointing to drone-based spraying, digital soil health monitoring, mobile-based farmer advisories, and e-NAM markets as developments reshaping the rural economy. He urged farmers and youth to adopt modern farming practices and said that while Chhattisgarh is known as the rice bowl, focus should also expand to high-quality paddy varieties such as Basmati to improve market opportunities and returns. He also highlighted prospects in hydroponics and natural farming, and said the state’s land and water structure is favourable for agriculture, which can be made more profitable with appropriate technology and approach.Chief Minister Sai said IGKV has made significant contributions in agricultural education and research, adding that new crop varieties developed by scientists and modern technologies are benefiting farmers. He said the state government is prioritising farmers’ interests and working to make farming modern, profitable, and sustainable, while promoting production of pulses, oilseeds, fruits and vegetables, and coarse grains alongside paddy. He cited measures including paddy procurement at Rs. 3,100 per quintal, expansion of irrigation projects, access to agricultural equipment, and free electricity, and called on students to serve as a bridge between farmers and scientists by integrating drones, AI, and digital tools into agriculture.Agriculture minister Netam said multiple innovations are being implemented to promote agriculture in the state. He said Chhattisgarh has the highest number of paddy varieties and is known for aromatic paddy, and noted potential in fruits, flowers, and spices. He urged students to contribute through research and innovation.Dr Singh delivered the convocation address. Vice-Chancellor Dr. Girish Chandel presented the convocation report and administered the convocation charge to graduating students. The Registrar delivered the vote of thanks. Attendees included local MLA Padmashri Anuj Sharma, vice-chancellors of various universities, members of the university’s Board of Management, Academic Council and Administrative Council, faculty, scientists, university officials, graduating students, and their guardians.