Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel has called on the state’s agricultural universities to bridge the gap between research labs and farmlands through a targeted outreach program, marking a shift in how agricultural knowledge is disseminated in rural India.
Speaking at the 18th convocation of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology (SVPUAT) in Meerut, Patel directed teachers, scientists, and students to participate in the *Developed Agriculture Resolution Campaign*, a nationwide initiative running from October 3 to 18. Under the campaign, university teams will visit three villages each, sharing the latest agricultural research, government schemes, and practical techniques to improve farming efficiency.
The move reflects a growing recognition that agricultural innovation often struggles to reach smallholder farmers, who form the backbone of India’s food security. By deploying academic expertise directly to villages, the campaign aims to address this disconnect. Researchers will not only explain scientific advancements but also guide farmers on accessing subsidies, loans, and other government benefits—many of which remain underutilized due to lack of awareness.
A notable focus of the initiative is the inclusion of women farmers, who play a crucial but often overlooked role in agriculture. Patel announced special training sessions for women, covering drone operation (under the *Drone Didi* program), soil testing, and corrective farming techniques. This push aligns with broader efforts to formalize women’s participation in agriculture, where they contribute nearly 60% of the labor but rarely receive targeted support.
The governor’s remarks also highlighted systemic challenges within agricultural universities. She pointed to neglected infrastructure—such as closed staff blocks and inadequate hostel facilities—urging students and faculty to take ownership of campus improvements. Her critique underscores a broader concern: that institutions meant to drive agricultural progress are themselves in need of reform.
The convocation itself offered a snapshot of shifting trends in agricultural education. Female students dominated the awards, securing 13 of the 26 gold medals—a sign of increasing gender parity in a field traditionally dominated by men. With 583 graduates across disciplines, the ceremony also reflected the growing demand for specialized agricultural expertise in a sector facing climate pressures and market volatility.
For farmers, the campaign’s success will hinge on whether academic insights translate into tangible benefits—higher yields, better resilience to pests, or improved access to credit. For universities, it presents an opportunity to redefine their role beyond research, positioning themselves as active partners in rural development. If executed effectively, the initiative could serve as a model for other states grappling with similar gaps between knowledge and practice in agriculture.