Udaipur: In a landmark move set to reshape the landscape of agricultural education and research, Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology (MPUAT) and Dhanuka Agritech Limited have formalized a comprehensive five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement, inked by R.G. Agarwal, the Chairman of Dhanuka Group, and Dr. Ajit Kumar Karnataka, the Vice Chancellor of MPUAT, outlines an array of initiatives aimed at propelling innovation and employment-oriented advancements in the agricultural sector.

Central to the partnership is the establishment of a state-of-the-art Drone Lab in Udaipur, where researchers will delve into cutting-edge applications, with a specific focus on drone-assisted pesticide spraying in crops and field studies. The collaboration will extend financial support to MPUAT students pursuing B.Sc.(Agriculture) and M.Sc., fostering excellence in academics and nurturing future agricultural leaders.

The MoU charts a course for MPUAT to conduct bio-efficacy and phytotoxicity trials through drone applications sponsored by Dhanuka, combining the academic rigor of the university with the practical expertise of Dhanuka's specialists. Notably, Madhya Pradesh will contribute both space and expertise to support the establishment of the drone lab, underscoring the collaborative nature of the initiative.

Research under the agreement will encompass the design, development, and effective use of agrochemicals, leveraging MPUAT's academic prowess and Dhanuka's industry insights. Joint ownership of research papers resulting from collaborative efforts ensures a equitable sharing of knowledge and facilitates wider dissemination through publication in research journals.

Performance-adaptive trials will be a cornerstone of the collaboration, conducted on farmers' fields through Krishi Vigyan Kendras under the university's auspices. Progressive farmers will actively participate, with Dhanuka's experts contributing their valuable insights to these on-field experiments.

Dhanuka's commitment extends beyond research, with the company pledging to provide product management training and certification to agricultural students, equipping them with practical skills. The distribution of personal protective equipment for the safe use of crop protection products aims at a holistic approach to agricultural education and safety.

Additionally, Dhanuka will sponsor various events organized by MPUAT, including farmers' fairs, seminars, and conferences, providing a platform for knowledge exchange and networking within the agricultural community. The company will also engage in campus interviews, facilitating potential job placements for highly educated students.

Speaking at the event, R.G. Agarwal, a Rajasthan native himself, expressed his dedication to supporting the future of agriculture students and contributing to the prosperity of farmers in the state. He emphasized Dhanuka's longstanding commitment to education, training, and employment, underlining the company's role in fostering sustainable growth in the agricultural sector.

Dr. Saindas, a distinguished scientist and former Director of the Indian Millet Research Institute, lauded the soil and climate of Rajasthan as conducive to seed production, emphasizing the need for a maize processing unit in southern Rajasthan.

The Industry Academy meeting in the second session brought together agricultural scientists, industrialists, and students for a dynamic exchange of ideas and feedback.

As these institutions join forces, the future of agriculture in Rajasthan and beyond looks poised for innovation, sustainability, and unprecedented growth.