Punjab Agricultural University in Ludhiana hosted a visionary meeting for the Vice Chancellors of Punjab.
Ludhiana, Punjab, India, June 5, 2025 — Punjab Agricultural University in Ludhiana hosted a meeting for Vice Chancellors from various institutions across Punjab. The purpose of this gathering was to foster collaboration, share strategic insights, and address common challenges in higher education and research.
Initiated by the Honorable Governor of Punjab, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, these group meetings underscore the vital role that agricultural, technical, and traditional universities play in shaping India’s academic landscape.
The participating academicians included:
- Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice-Chancellor, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana
- Prof. Renu Vig, Vice-Chancellor, Panjab University, Chandigarh
- Dr. Jatinder Paul Singh Gill, Vice Chancellor, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana
- Prof. Jai Shankar Singh, Vice-Chancellor, Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law, Patiala
- Dr. Sanjeev Sood, Vice-Chancellor, Guru Ravidas Ayurved University, Hoshiarpur
- Dr. Rajiv Sood, Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot
During the session, Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice Chancellor of PAU, highlighted the university’s historic legacy in Indian agriculture and its dedication to advancing education and research through innovation. He emphasized the importance of integrating modern technologies, such as data science, artificial intelligence, and automation, to revitalize farming and attract young people to the agricultural sector. Dr. Gosal also called for stronger partnerships to address emerging challenges, such as climate change and resource sustainability.
The interaction commenced with opening remarks presented by Dr. Rishi Pal Singh (IAS), the Registrar of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU). He articulated the agenda and underscored the significance of collaborative efforts in addressing both national and global challenges. His address established an atmosphere conducive to intellectual engagement and constructive dialogue throughout the day.
Punjab Agricultural University’s Punjab Agriculture Business Incubator (PABI) has established a pioneering drone program recognized as a leader in autonomous drone technology. A significant achievement for the organization occurred when its Chief Executive Officer had the opportunity to present innovative drone solutions to the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi.
Furthermore, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has obtained approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to create a Remote Pilot Training Organization (RPTO). This establishment will be the first independent, government-supported drone training center in the state, designed to equip young farmers with the necessary skills to operate drones effectively and safely. This initiative would significantly transform the region’s agricultural landscape.
PAU will offer specialized training focused on the operation of drones under visual line of sight (VLoS) conditions, with particular emphasis on small-class rotorcraft remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS). Upon successful completion of the program, participants will receive certification from the DGCA, thereby enhancing their ability to contribute to the modernization of agriculture in Punjab.
Consequently, the Vice Chancellor of Panjab University, Chandigarh, Prof. Renu Vig, called for collaborative support from Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) to develop comprehensive operational frameworks that can enhance research and application in this crucial area.
She explored joint venture opportunities with PAU for the proposed Drone Tech Centre at Panjab University, aiming to integrate technology into agricultural practices. Additionally, she revisited earlier discussions about establishing dual-degree programs and leadership training initiatives with PAU, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in education and professional development.
Dr. Jatinder Paul Singh Gill, Vice Chancellor of Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University in Ludhiana, emphasized the importance of integrating veterinary and crop research to increase agricultural income. He advocated for the collaborative use of infrastructure and joint ventures to eliminate redundant efforts. Furthermore, he proposed the establishment of a Centre of Excellence for Fodder in partnership with Punjab Agricultural University (PAU).
Offering an Ayurvedic perspective, Dr. Sanjeev Sood from Guru Ravidas Ayurved University, Hoshiarpur, underlined the potential of interdisciplinary education in addressing complex global challenges. He highlighted opportunities for collaboration with PAU in the herbal and functional food sectors, particularly in cultivating heavy metal-free medicinal plants.
Dr. Rajeev Sood, Vice Chancellor of Baba Farid University of Health Sciences in Faridkot, emphasized the importance of group meetings in advancing the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. He advocated for the integration of unconventional courses, sustainable initiatives, interdisciplinary credit transfer, and strong alliances between academia and industry to transform the educational landscape.
A lively open forum provided an opportunity for Vice Chancellors to discuss key themes, including international collaborations, accreditation processes, resource sharing, and faculty development. These discussions reinforced the belief that collective knowledge and cooperative strategies can reshape the landscape of higher education.
The day concluded with a formal recognition of all participating Vice Chancellors for their leadership and commitment to academic excellence. The dignitaries then toured several of PAU’s advanced facilities, including the Speed Breeding Unit, Tissue Culture Lab, Agro Processing Complex, Day Care Centre, Experiential Learning Centre, Food Industry Incubation Centre, and Skill Development Hub.
Dr. Vishal Bector, Associate Director of Institution Relations at PAU, moderated the proceedings, ensuring that the event remained focused and impactful. The gathering concluded with a sense of optimism and a renewed commitment to pave a collaborative and future-oriented path for higher education and agriculture in India.
Source: Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana
CitiTimes 