India Poised to Become Global Hub for Agricultural Education: Dr. RC Agrawal
Hyderabad, June 20, 2025:
India is fast emerging as a global hub for agricultural education, with rising academic standards and global recognition, said Dr. RC Agrawal, former Deputy Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). He emphasized that agricultural education has a vital role to play in realizing the visions of Viksit Bharat and Atma Nirbhar Bharat.
Dr. Agrawal was addressing students and faculty as the chief guest at a workshop on Agricultural Education and Opportunities held at the College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar. He encouraged students to pursue innovation and highlighted the significant role of agro-based startups in transforming India into a $5 trillion economy.
“With the application of Artificial Intelligence, a rural revolution is imminent. This will enhance farmers’ incomes and strengthen the rural economy,” he noted. He projected that by 2029, the agriculture sector would offer opportunities worth USD 6.58 billion, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24.8%.
Dr. Agrawal further pointed out that agriculture remains the backbone for several industries in India, particularly in the food processing sector. He cited studies indicating increasing consumer interest in fruits and meat products and forecasted 17.7 lakh agricultural job opportunities by 2040, with job growth exceeding 8% annually. He also advocated for increased focus on agricultural vocational training.
Highlighting the importance of early exposure, he spoke about a successful pilot project in Delhi schools where students from classes 6 to 8 underwent a one-week agricultural course. “This initiative instills respect for agriculture and farmers from a young age. It should be implemented across the country,” he urged.
Dr. Danda Rajireddy, Vice Chancellor of Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University, stated that the university, with the support of ICAR and the state government, is ensuring world-class infrastructure and facilities for students. He affirmed that Indian agricultural education is now globally competitive.
Dr. Gnana Prakash, Vice Chancellor of Telangana Veterinary University, praised Dr. Agrawal’s tenure at ICAR, during which universities benefited from enhanced funding and development initiatives.
The event saw participation from several dignitaries, including Dr. R.K. Mathur, Director of the Indian Institute of Oilseeds Research (IIOR); Dr. Lal, Director of the National Academy of Agricultural Research Management (NAARM); Dr. Saravanan, Director of the National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR); along with Dr. Bhagwan (Registrar), Dr. Cheena (Dean), Consultant Dr. K. Veeranjaneyulu, Dr. Lakshminarayana, Dr. Rajasekhar, Dr. Seenivasan, Dr. P. Prashanth, Dr. P. Saidaiah, scientists, professors, and students.
