Bhubaneswar, Dec 5 (UNI)President Droupadi Murmu urged the students to contribute to the national goal of making India a developed nation by 2047 through innovative ideas and dedicated actions.
Speaking at the convocation ceremony of Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) on the third day of her five-day visit to Odisha, the President said the convocation day opens the path to the promising future of students.
She told students that they are now entering a different ecosystem where they will face rigorous tests of their knowledge and skills in real-world situations. They are expected to contribute to nation-building by applying the knowledge and skills they acquire. She urged them to contribute to the national goal of making India a developed nation by 2047 through innovative ideas and dedicated actions.
Murmu said there was a time when India was dependent on other countries for food grains. Now the country is exporting food grains and other agricultural products. This has been possible due to the guidance the agricultural scientists and the tireless hard work of the farmers.
The President said that the overall development of the country is not possible without the development of agriculture and farmers. The economy of the country can be strengthened by the development of agriculture, fishery production, and livestock. She said that today, agriculture is facing new challenges such as natural disasters, adverse effects of climate change, decreasing per capita farm size, and excessive exploitation of natural resources.
The scientists will have to develop and disseminate technologies timely to deal with the challenges. Emphasis should be put on environmental protection, soil health protection, water and soil conservation, and better use of natural resources, she said.
The President said climate change-related issues such as rising temperatures and increases in greenhouse gases are affecting agricultural production. Agricultural scientists have an important responsibility to deal with all such issues.
Excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides has also emerged as a new challenge for the agriculture sector. Their ill effects on soil, water, and the environment are a matter of concern for all. She expressed confidence that young scientists would find solutions to solve these problems.
The President is scheduled to inaugurate the judicial complex here in the afternoon.
UNI BD KK