Vice-chancellor of Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University (HPAU), Palampur, KK Katoch on Friday underlined the importance of basic sciences in research and applied sciences, stating that without proper knowledge of these subjects, it was difficult to achieve a sustainable development.
“Scientific knowledge is must for creation and development in basic sciences has ensured economic prosperity,” said Katoch, who presided over the convocation of HPAU's College of Basic Science in Palampur.He stressed upon the need of popularising science among the students.
“There has been more use of modern biology and chemistry techniques in crop breeding, mineral nutrition, chemical analysis of soil, plant and several agricultural products,” said Katoch, adding that the importance of basic sciences had also been realised by Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and a decision had been taken to allow the basic science graduates to
get admission in masters' programme in agricultural sciences.
He said the HPAU was making impressive strides in providing innovation and technology led growth in the region, while creating better access to higher education in rural areas.
The vice-chancellor, on the occasion, conferred degrees on 333 students, of whom 207 students were present in person. He also presented seven gold medals and 46 certificates of honour.
{{/usCountry}}The vice-chancellor, on the occasion, conferred degrees on 333 students, of whom 207 students were present in person. He also presented seven gold medals and 46 certificates of honour.
{{/usCountry}}HPAU registrar Rattan Gautam led the convocation procession, read the permission of the chancellor and conducted the proceedings of the convocation.
Dean, College of Basic Sciences, Kamlesh Singh informed that, so far, 597 students had earned their under graduate, while 232 students had done masters from the College of Basic Sciences.
The dean said conscious efforts had been made to provide quality academic, extra-curricular, co-curricular and other requisite facilities to the students.
He said the college faculty had completed 32 research projects with budget outlay of Rs 1,044.96 lakh from the several national and international funding agencies and 11 projects worth Rs 254.55 lakh were in progress.