Focus on Innovation, Diversification and Future-Ready Solutions for the Hill Agriculture Sector

Nauni University Celebrates 41 Years of Growing Dreams and Greener Futures

The Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni marked its 41st Foundation Day with a renewed pledge to shape the future of hill farming through innovation, diversification, and climate‑resilient practices.

The celebrations at the Dr LS Negi Auditorium brought together scientists, farmers, faculty, and students in a vibrant gathering. Vice Chancellor Prof. Rajeshwar Singh Chandel presided as Chief Guest, while noted academician Dr Vijay Kumar Stokes—grandson of Satyanand Stokes and former IIT Kanpur professor—delivered an inspiring keynote address.

Honouring the Legacy

Registrar Sidharth Acharya traced the university’s journey back to the College of Agriculture, Solan (1962), highlighting its mission of empowering hill farmers through education and research. Prof. Chandel paid tribute to Dr Yashwant Singh Parmar, whose vision led to Asia’s first university dedicated solely to horticulture and forestry—an institution that inspired many others across India.

Looking Ahead

Prof. Chandel emphasized the importance of farmer–scientist collaboration, fruit diversification, and affordable technologies to help farming communities tackle climate challenges. He credited the combined efforts of scientists, staff, and students for making Himachal Pradesh a leader in horticulture and forestry.

Wisdom from the Orchards

Dr Vijay Stokes shared his personal journey of turning farmer post‑retirement, drawing lessons from rejuvenating the historic Harmony Hall Orchards planted by Samuel Stokes. He urged young faculty to think creatively, warned of disruptions from artificial intelligence, and stressed the need for adaptive learning in agriculture.

Farmers and Staff Felicitated

Five progressive farmers were honoured for their contributions:

• Col. Prakash Chand Rana (Kangra) – integrated farming with turmeric, poultry, fisheries, and beekeeping
• Ashish Singh Rana (Jawali) – dragon fruit cultivation and natural farming
• Anup Bhialaik (Kotgarh) – innovations in stone fruit production
• Sunny Chauhan (Rohru) – beekeeping and value addition
• Om Prakash (Dilman) – natural farming and farmer–student training

Twelve employees across teaching, technical, support, and allied categories were also recognized, including sanitation workers Meera Sharma and Om Prakash for their dedicated service.

A Celebration with Spirit

Adding a touch of fun, a friendly volleyball match between teaching and non‑teaching staff capped the day, with the non‑teaching team taking home the win.

A Community United

The event drew retired scientists, Senate and Board members, progressive farmers, employees, and students—reflecting the university’s enduring role as a hub of knowledge, innovation, and community spirit.