Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 29 May: Sardar Bhagwan Singh University (SBSU), Balawala, has taken a significant step toward integrating academic learning with community impact by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Shivansh Farming, an initiative of the Hans Foundation, a nationally recognised philanthropic organisation. The MoU was formally signed at the university campus on 29 May in the presence of university officials, dignitaries, local farmers, students, and faculty members.
This collaboration is especially transformative for students of Agricultural Sciences at SBSU, who are set to gain unparalleled opportunities for real-world exposure and hands-on learning through a structured exchange programme. The agreement emphasises field-based learning, rural internships, and participation in community-centred agricultural initiatives, allowing agriculture students to apply classroom concepts directly in rural settings supported by the Hans Foundation.
Through this partnership, SBSU’s agriculture students will engage in live rural development projects focusing on sustainable farming practices, organic agriculture, soil health management, integrated farming systems, and climate-resilient agriculture. The programme is designed to enhance their academic understanding of agri-sciences by placing them in actual field conditions where they can conduct studies, gather data, and work with local farmers on practical solutions.
Prof (Dr) J Kumar, Vice-Chancellor of SBSU, highlighted the significance of this initiative in the context of agricultural education. “This MoU opens a unique channel for our Agriculture students to bridge the gap between academic theory and field practice. By working with farmers and participating in sustainable development initiatives, they gain insights that no textbook can provide. This is a powerful step towards developing future-ready agri-professionals who are socially conscious and technically skilled.”
In addition to academic exposure, the exchange programme also includes specialised workshops, training sessions, and demonstrations led jointly by university experts and Hans Foundation practitioners. These sessions aim to equip students with skills in agro-entrepreneurship, value-chain development, the use of agri-tech, and precision farming—critical competencies for India’s evolving agricultural landscape.
Ravi Sharma, Project Officer at Shivansh Farm, echoed this sentiment: “Our partnership with SBS University has a strong focus on empowering young agriculture students. They are the future custodians of our food systems. By working in the field, side by side with farmers, these students will not only learn but also inspire innovation at the grassroots.”
The MoU’s dual-purpose structure allows SBSU students to, both, learn from the community and contribute to it. In return, farmers and rural youth from the Hans Foundation network will have access to the university’s knowledge base, scientific approaches, and innovative practices. This reciprocal flow of information creates a dynamic ecosystem for continuous learning and mutual empowerment.
The event also featured moving testimonials from local farmers who are set to benefit directly from this initiative. Deepak, a progressive farmer, expressed hope for better access to new agricultural techniques and market information. Lalit, a dairy farmer, added that such programmes would help farmers adapt to climate change and evolving market demands.
The MoU also outlines provisions for student internships, joint research projects, farm-based case studies, and long-term community outreach initiatives led by SBSU’s School of Agricultural Sciences. This partnership is envisioned as a replicable model of how academic institutions can actively participate in rural upliftment while enriching their own educational frameworks.
Dr Deepa Mishra Thapliyal, who delivered the vote of thanks, commended the presence of all stakeholders who made the event a success. Other distinguished attendees included Dr Deepak Sahni (Registrar), Lt Col RP Jugran (Retd) (Deputy Registrar – Administration), Vipin Kumar Jain (Deputy Registrar – HR & Liaison), Dr Atul Kaushik, Associate Director, Research & Innovation, and faculty and students of the university.
With this collaboration, SBS University reaffirms its commitment to community-integrated education—ensuring its Agriculture students not only graduate with degrees but with a deeper understanding of India’s rural realities and the skills to address them.
