Dr. P. Chandra Shekara, the Director General of the Centre on Integrated Rural Development for Asia and the Pacific (CIRDAP), visited Krishi Jagran's office in New Delhi on March 26, 2025, underscoring the critical need to bridge the gap between technology developers and users in the agricultural sector. During his address, Dr. Shekara highlighted key issues facing agriculture, including the disconnect between academic research and real-world applications, the importance of public-private partnerships, and the need for innovative solutions to empower farmers and improve extension services.
In his address, Dr. Shekara shared his passion for Agricultural Journalism, stating, "Agriculture Journalism is one of my favorite subjects, and I am deeply passionate about it, especially as a student of agricultural extension. I firmly believe that digital media has the potential to bridge the gap between those who generate technology and those who use it. Without this bridge, it is nearly impossible to address the needs of every individual or tackle all the problems on a one-to-one basis. The work you’re doing in this area is pivotal, and you have my full support." He further emphasized, "People perceive agriculture as a poor man’s job, but we see millionaires emerging from it," highlighting the transformative potential of the agriculture sector.
Dr. Shekara also drew attention to a significant issue in agricultural education – the gap between academic research and practical applications. He noted that many student theses remain confined to the college library, with little real-world impact. To address this, he proposed that academic institutions collaborate with field-level stakeholders to identify pressing challenges and involve students in finding solutions. "We must engage with NGOs and other field-level stakeholders to ensure that the research conducted by students is meaningful and beneficial to society," he stated.
In addition to emphasizing the importance of bridging research and practical applications, Dr. Shekara discussed the critical role of public-private partnerships in addressing the growing unemployment in agriculture. He pointed out that while approximately 30,000 agriculture graduates enter the workforce annually, only 20% secure employment. He credited the Agri-Clinics and Agri-Business Centres Scheme, which he helped launch, as a solution to this challenge. This initiative supplements the public extension system with private extension services, enabling self-employment and providing essential services at minimal or no cost.
Dr. Shekara also highlighted the importance of international training programs in equipping agricultural stakeholders with the knowledge and skills necessary to drive sector innovation and development. "These programs contribute to capacity building and the overall advancement of agriculture," he remarked.
Concluding his speech, Dr. Shekara emphasized the need for ongoing efforts to attract and retain youth in agriculture. "Innovative initiatives like those led by Krishi Jagran are crucial in this effort, and I offer my full support and best wishes for all such initiatives," he said. Dr. Shekara also underscored CIRDAP's global role, noting its focus on rural development, climate change, SDGs, poverty alleviation, nutrition, and empowering farmers in 15 countries across Asia and the Pacific.
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks and a group photograph, capturing a memorable moment of collaboration and shared commitment to the future of agriculture.
