In a remarkable achievement, Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya (CSK HPKV), Palampur, has been honoured with the prestigious “Best Centre Award” during the National Group Meeting of the All India Coordinated Research Project on Forage Crops and Utilisation. The event was organised at the Southern Regional Research Station, Dharwad (Karnataka), under the aegis of the Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute (IGFRI), Jhansi.

Recognition Among 21 National Centres

CSK HPKV was selected among 21 centres across the country engaged in forage crop research, owing to its outstanding contribution to fodder development and its successful dissemination to farmers’ fields. The university’s centre emerged as a national leader for its initiatives aimed at enhancing fodder productivity, improving livestock health, and uplifting rural livelihoods through science-driven agricultural solutions.

A Boost to Livestock and Rural Economy

The university’s efforts have yielded tangible benefits on the ground — boosting the quality and quantity of livestock feed, resulting in better animal health, higher milk and meat production, and increased income for rural communities. These improvements have contributed significantly to sustainable agricultural practices and rural prosperity in Himachal Pradesh.

A Legacy of Agricultural Excellence

Established on 1st November 1978, CSK HPKV (originally Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya) was renamed in June 2001 to honour Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar, a visionary leader. The university traces its roots to the College of Agriculture, set up in May 1966, which formed the foundation of this institution.

Today, CSK HPKV is an ICAR-accredited institution, and the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), Ministry of Education, Government of India, ranks it 14th among all agriculture and allied sector institutions in India. Among state agricultural universities, it proudly holds the 8th position nationally.

The university was established under the leadership of Hon’ble Shri Shanta Kumar Ji, former Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh. Initially, agricultural education in the state was conducted through two colleges — at Palampur and Solan — which were part of the Himachal Pradesh University agricultural complex. On December 1, 1985, the Solan campus was separated and later became Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry.

Transforming Himachal’s Agricultural Landscape

Over the decades, CSK HPKV has significantly contributed to agricultural transformation in the hill state. The university has played a vital role in:

• Developing human resources through quality education in agriculture and allied sciences.
• Innovating crop varieties and technologies tailored to Himachal’s unique agro-climatic conditions.
• Delivering impactful extension services, connecting science to the farmers’ fields.

Its research and outreach efforts have helped Himachal Pradesh achieve self-sufficiency in food production, promote agricultural diversification, and improve rural livelihoods, especially in hilly and marginal areas.

Conclusion

The Best Centre Award is a resounding recognition of CSK HPKV Palampur’s enduring commitment to agricultural innovation and rural development. As it continues its mission to serve the farming communities of Himachal Pradesh, the university remains a beacon of agricultural research and education in the Himalayan region.