Pupils must know crop mgmt: RPCAU

Patna: Justifying the dictum ‘example is better than precept’, Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University (RPCAU)’s vice-chancellor (VC) P S Pandey, along with teachers and scientists, on Saturday stepped into the agricultural field at Pusa (Samastipur) to transplant paddy saplings.The ‘Dhan Ropai Milan Karyakram’ was organised by the university to connect students with the ground realities of farming beyond the classroom and laboratory.Addressing the gathering of university teachers, students, and local farmers, the VC said that agricultural education should not remain confined to books and labs. “Until our scientists and students get into the fields themselves, the dream of ‘Lab to Land’ cannot be realised.

Today we transplanted paddy with students so they can directly understand the nuances of soil, water and crop management. Ultimately, every research of this university is directly linked to farmers’ fields and their income,“ Pandey added.Dean of Postgraduate College of Agriculture, Mayank Rai, said that this unique programme served as an excellent platform for skill development. Practical exposure to land preparation, transplanting and plant spacing will help students become better agricultural scientists and entrepreneurs in the future.

The university will continue such field-based programs,” he said.Paddy scientist Nilanjay said such demonstrations will boost students’ confidence and prepare them better for climate-smart agriculture. More than 150 students of the university were given hands-on training in puddling, layout designing and scientific methods of transplantation. A large number of teachers, researchers and PG students participated in the programme.