Vice President Recognizes Contribution of ‘Annadata’ Towards Nation-Building at 61st convocation ceremony of ICAR-IARI

Dhankhar emphasized that agriculture is the foundation of India's economy and noted Annadata's enormous contribution to the development of the country as a whole. Even in the midst of a pandemic, he praised the country's agricultural sector for its dedication, which allowed for the provision of food security for over 800 million people.

The Vice President praised India's efforts to declare 2023 the International Year of Millets and emphasized the importance of this designation for the global agriculture industry. He also mentioned how modern technology, such as drones, is being used in agriculture more and more, changing this industry along with the times.

Dhankhar focused on the initiatives taken to advance the agricultural sector. He stated in his address that the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi initiative has transferred 2.2 lakh crore to more than 11.4 crore farmers. Vice President Dhankhar emphasized that all sections of India are represented in the vast talent pool of ICAR-IARI.

He claimed that it was chosen from the group with the most sincere enterprise, mission, and passion for serving the nation. Young people should be proud of India's accomplishments and its status as the Mother of Democracy, Dhankhar urged.

The Vice President referred to the Parliament as the "temple of democracy" and stated that it should not be used as a platform for disruption and disturbance but rather for dialogue, debate, discussion, and deliberation. The Vice President stated that the privileges granted by Article 105 of the Constitution come with significant responsibility and are not unqualified.

Dhankhar emphasized that every word spoken in Parliament should be done so after careful thought and consideration, noting that neither a civil lawsuit nor a criminal case can be brought against members for what they say inside the House. Parliament cannot be allowed to develop into a platform for information to fall freely, he continued.

Vice President Dhankhar released 16 different varieties of cereals, fruits, and vegetables at the convocation in addition to awarding the ICAR-deserving IARI's students with Merit Medals and Awards. Senior ICAR-IARI officials, scientists, and other dignitaries attended the event along with Narendra Singh Tomar, the Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Kailash Choudhary, the Minister of State for Agriculture, and other dignitaries.