August 24, 2017: Time has come that Tripura gets an Agriculture University and it is also necessary to enhance the capacity and facility of existing Agriculture College, inaugurating a programme today to commemorate the 11th Foundation Day of the State Agriculture College at Lumbuchhera near Agartala, State Agriculture Minister Aghore Debbarma stated this.
He said, agriculture is one of the main sources of earning for majority of rural people and higher education facility in the State will pave way for meeting emerging challenges. He also focused upon improving facilities and scope of existing Agriculture College so that both the students and farmers of the State can derive more benefits.
Referring to climate change, Debbarma said, it is necessary to impart advanced training to students on methods to cope up with erratic weather condition and for this purpose, State needs an Agriculture University. He also urged the Central Government to arrange additional grants for Agriculture related education. The Minister also inaugurated a gymnasium in the College campus.
Speaking on the occasion, Principal of Agriculture College, Mrinmoy Dutta said, total 151 students passed from the college and successfully enrolled in higher studies after clearing All India entrance tests. Dutta also stressed upon diversification and emphasized involving in horticulture, fisheries and animal husbandry activities along with Agriculture to ensure better earning opportunity for farming communities. Among others, Deputy Speaker of State Assembly Pabitra Kar and Director of Horticulture Arun Debbarma were also present.
As part of the programme, an interactive session was held in which local farmers and teaching staffs of the Agriculture College exchanged views on several issues relating to cultivation. “We discussed about climate change and affect on agriculture. Specific discussion was held on controlling seasonal pests”, said one farmer.
