Turn ‘ghar ki kheti’ into profitable ventures, advises Agriculture Dept Additional Director Ravinder Singh Jasrotia
The ICSSR International Conference on Capacity Building and Youth’s Perception of Agriculture Entrepreneurship in Himachal Pradesh commenced at Shoolini University on Tuesday.
Organised by the Faculty of Management Sciences (FMS), Shoolini University, and Rajkiya Kanya Mahavidyalaya (RKMV), Himachal Pradesh, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Industries, the two-day conference aims to empower youth in agriculture entrepreneurship and strengthen the rural economy.
Ravinder Singh Jasrotia, Additional Director, Agriculture Department, Himachal Pradesh, was the chief guest. The event brought together dignitaries, academicians, researchers, students, and industry professionals. Prof Munish Sahrawat, President and Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences, led the inaugural session, introducing the dignitaries and outlining the conference agenda.
Rajkiya Kanya Mahavidyalaya (RKMV) Principal Anurita Saxena highlighted the active research contributions of RKMV faculty in agriculture entrepreneurship and lauded Shoolini University’s initiatives in the field. She said 20 faculty members and 30 students from RKMV, along with six entrepreneurs, attended the conference for knowledge exchange.
She emphasised the need for stronger government support, saying, “Our report will assist the government in crafting more effective policies. Collaborative efforts between educational institutions and government agencies are essential for entrepreneur support.” She also called for Shoolini University’s mentorship for student startups and highlighted initiatives such as 'Himera' Himmahotsav.
Addressing the gathering, chief guest Jasrotia, with 26 years of experience in agriculture, emphasised innovative farming techniques, including the use of drones for agricultural purposes. Encouraging students to turn their ‘ghar ki kheti’ into profitable ventures, he remarked, “Capacity building is about planting seeds for the future. This platform enables ideas to turn into action, and we are here to support and collaborate.”
Shoolini University Founder-Chancellor Prof PK Khosla inspired participants by emphasising the role of determination and knowledge in achieving success.
Shoolini University Pro-Chancellor Vishal Anand welcomed the guests, reaffirming the university’s commitment to strengthening the Himalayan ecosystem through sustainable agricultural initiatives.
Shoolini University President (Innovation and Marketing) Prof Ashish Khosla emphasised the importance of knowledge in business success. “Mastering one’s subject and applying it to real-world scenarios is key to entrepreneurial growth. Agri-tech innovations are shaping the future of agriculture, and funding opportunities at Shoolini University have supported over 100 startups,” he stated.
A key highlight of the conference was the participation of six successful Agri-Entrepreneurs, who shared their experiences, challenges, and strategies for thriving in the agricultural sector. Their insights provided attendees with practical knowledge about agribusiness opportunities and innovations.
March 26, 2025