Shivraj asks students to launch agri-startups, explore innovation

Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Friday attended the sixth convocation ceremony of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K), Srinagar, and conferred degrees upon the graduates. The event was also attended by Lieutenant Governor and Chancellor of the University Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister and Pro-Chancellor of SKUAST-K Omar Abdullah, Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Javed Ahmad Dar, Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Chaudhary, Education Minister Ms. Sakina Masood, along with vice chancellors, professors, senior officials, and other dignitaries. While addressing the gathering, Chouhan said, "Convocation does not mean the end of learning; it marks the beginning of new knowledge.The lessons you’ve learned in your classrooms and labs must now be shared with society." He called for more innovation in agriculture, urging students to launch startups and develop advanced technologies in the sector. Chouhan reiterated  his vision to make J&K a global horticulture hub.

हम जम्मू-कश्मीर को हॉर्टिकल्चर का हब बनाएंगे... pic.twitter.com/Ko5S76Unxf

— Shivraj Singh Chouhan (@ChouhanShivraj) July 4, 2025

At the convocation ceremony, nearly 5,250 students received undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD degrees. Additionally, 150 gold medals and 445 merit certificates were awarded to outstanding students for their academic achievements.