Vice-Chancellor Envisions Self-Sustainable University, Advocates Horti-Tourism at Neri Campus

Prof. H.S. Baweja, Vice-Chancellor of Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, visited the College of Horticulture and Forestry, Neri, where he interacted with the faculty, staff and students and reviewed the academic and research activities of the institution.

The Vice-Chancellor was welcomed by the Dean, Dr. Ramesh Kumar Bhardwaj, along with faculty members, staff and students. On the occasion, the Dean presented a comprehensive overview of the College, highlighting its academic programmes, research achievements, extension initiatives, infrastructure and future development plans.

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Baweja emphasized the need for need-based, interdisciplinary, innovative and farmer-centric research to address emerging challenges in horticulture, forestry, agriculture and climate resilience. He underscored the importance of developing technologies that are practical, sustainable and capable of improving farmers' livelihoods.

The Vice-Chancellor stressed the importance of transforming it into a self-sustainable institution through enhanced resource generation, innovation and effective utilization of available assets. Prof. Baweja also advocated the promotion of horti-tourism by integrating horticulture, eco-tourism, entrepreneurship and experiential learning. He said such initiatives could diversify income sources, create employment opportunities for rural youth and showcase the rich horticultural heritage of the region. He also emphasized the need to strengthen collaborations with leading national and international institutions, attract externally funded research projects, enhance the quality and impact of scientific publications, promote research in subtropical horticulture, and ensure the effective transfer of technologies from laboratories to farmers' fields.

During his visit, Prof. Baweja inspected the academic departments, laboratories, instructional facilities and the Experimental Farm. He also visited the forestry research site at Khaggal, the Biochar Unit and the under-construction Working Women Hostel. Appreciating the College's infrastructure and ongoing research activities, he encouraged the faculty and staff to continue striving for excellence in teaching, research, extension, innovation and sustainable development for the benefit of the farming community and society at large.