early times report
Jammu, Sept 19: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-J) celebrated its 27th Foundation Day with great zeal and commitment, proving that even the recent devastating floods could not dampen the spirit of the University community.
Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu was the Chief Guest and Chairperson of the programme. In his address, Prof. Tripathi reflected on the University’s journey of the past 26 years and emphasized the need to evaluate achievements, acknowledge challenges and set ambitious milestones for the future. Remembering the efforts of the predecessors who laid the foundation of SKUAST-Jammu, he said that this day reminds us of the sacrifices made by our seniors who struggled hard and faced difficulties to establish this University.
Prof. Tripathi underlined that the University caters to the needs of the entire Jammu region and its graduates are serving in diverse capacities across departments and institutions. While appreciating the hard work of faculty and staff, he emphasized that the University is in a transition phase; adopting the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, modernizing academic practices and striving to compete with the top universities of the country.
He noted that the recent flash flood of August 26, 2025 caused damages worth crores, affecting infrastructure, equipment, orchards and essential facilities. However, he praised the University fraternity for their resilience, unity and tireless efforts in restoring normalcy. He further stressed the need to create flood-resistant infrastructure and to rebuild the University with renewed determination and collective commitment.
Highlighting the roadmap ahead, the Vice Chancellor called for strengthening the research portfolio, promoting technology commercialization and adopting problem-based teaching methods to prepare students for real-world challenges. He said that students must be ready for cutting-edge technologies and that innovation which comes through experience, should be encouraged at every level. He also urged the University to foster parallel thinking with leading universities across the world and to prepare a Vision Document 2047 that aligns SKUAST-Jammu with the national agenda of Viksit Bharat @ 2047.
On the occasion, Dr. S.K. Gupta, Director Research; Dr. Anil Kumar, Registrar and Dean, Faculty of Agriculture; Dr. Amrish Vaid, Director Extension and Dr. J.S. Soodan, Dean, Faculty of Dairy Technology spoke about the achievements of the University and the way forward. Dr. Sudhakar Dwivedi, Director Students’ Welfare welcomed the Chief Guest and all dignitaries and also coordinated the event.
Dr. Rajesh Katoch, Dean, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, presented the formal vote of thanks. The celebration was attended by all statutory officers, heads of divisions and KVKs, In-charge Research Stations, faculty members, non-teaching staff and students.
On this occasion, awards were also conferred on Dr. M.K. Pandey, Professor, Plant Breeding and Genetics and Mr. Imran Hussain, who were recognized for their brave-hearted efforts during the recent flash flood, saving the lives of several people.
The Foundation Day celebration was marked not just by reflection on the University’s glorious past but also by a renewed resolve to face future challenges unitedly with innovation, resilience and determination.
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