Bhubaneswar: President of India, Droupadi Murmu, graced the convocation ceremony of the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) in Bhubaneswar today, urging students and scientists to contribute actively to India’s agricultural and economic transformation.
In her address, the President highlighted the significance of convocation as a turning point in the lives of graduates, marking their entry into real-world challenges. She emphasized that the knowledge and skills acquired during their education must now be applied to nation-building. “Your innovative ideas and dedicated actions are crucial to achieving the national goal of making India a developed nation by 2047,” she told the graduating students.
Reflecting on India’s journey from a food grain importer to an exporter, President Murmu credited agricultural scientists and farmers for this transformation. She underlined that sustainable agricultural development is essential for the overall progress of the country and strengthening the economy.
“Our nation has made remarkable strides, but challenges persist in agriculture, such as natural disasters, climate change, shrinking farm sizes, and overuse of natural resources,” she noted. “Addressing these requires timely technological innovations and an unwavering commitment to environmental protection.”
The President urged agricultural scientists to prioritize research on pressing issues like climate change, soil health, and water conservation. Rising temperatures and greenhouse gas emissions, she said, pose significant risks to agricultural productivity. Additionally, she called attention to the detrimental effects of excessive chemical fertilizer and pesticide use, stressing the need for eco-friendly farming solutions.
“We must balance agricultural development with environmental sustainability, ensuring that future generations inherit healthy ecosystems,” she added, expressing confidence in the ability of young scientists to address these challenges.
President Murmu called for collective efforts in advancing agriculture, fishery production, and livestock development to bolster the economy. She emphasized that solutions must focus on soil and water conservation, the judicious use of natural resources, and adapting to the evolving needs of Indian agriculture.
The convocation ceremony concluded with a message of hope and responsibility, as graduates were reminded of their vital role in shaping a prosperous and sustainable future for India.
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