On December 5, 2024, President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu graced the convocation ceremony of the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. In her address, she emphasized the significance of the day, as graduates step into a new chapter of their lives, equipped with knowledge and skills to face real-world challenges.
Path to Nation-Building
President Droupadi Murmu urged the graduating students to actively contribute to the national goal of transforming India into a developed nation by 2047. She highlighted the crucial role of innovation and dedication in shaping the future of the country. She advised the students to apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems and work toward nation-building through their professional pursuits.
The Growth of India’s Agriculture Sector
Reflecting on India’s agricultural journey, the President recalled the time when the country was reliant on food grain imports. She noted the remarkable progress made, with India now exporting food grains and agricultural products globally. This transformation, she said, is a result of the guidance provided by agricultural scientists and the tireless efforts of Indian farmers.
Importance of Agricultural Development
President Droupadi Murmu stressed the critical role of agricultural development in the overall growth of the nation. She underscored that the development of agriculture, fisheries, and livestock will significantly strengthen India’s economy. She called for continued focus on these sectors to ensure sustainable progress.
Addressing Agricultural Challenges
During her speech, the President highlighted the pressing challenges faced by the agricultural sector, including climate change, natural disasters, decreasing per capita farm size, and the overuse of natural resources. She emphasized the need for scientific innovation and the timely development of technologies to address these issues. She also called for greater focus on environmental protection, soil health, and water conservation.
The Role of Agricultural Scientists
The President Droupadi Murmu acknowledged the critical role of agricultural scientists in combating climate change, rising temperatures, and greenhouse gas emissions, which are adversely affecting agricultural production. She also raised concerns about the overuse of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, urging the need for sustainable solutions to mitigate their harmful effects on soil, water, and the environment.
A Call to Young Scientists
President Droupadi Murmu expressed confidence that the young scientists graduating from the university would play a vital role in solving these challenges. She encouraged them to work towards developing solutions for sustainable agricultural practices and the protection of the environment.
Conclusion
The convocation ceremony at OUAT marked a significant moment in the lives of the graduates, who are now poised to contribute to the nation’s progress. President Murmu’s address emphasized the importance of innovation, sustainability, and dedication in ensuring a brighter and more prosperous future for India, especially in the field of agriculture.
