CM Omar Abdullah applauds women achievers at SKUAST-K 6th Convocation

Srinagar, July 4, 2025 – At the 6th Convocation Ceremony of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-Kashmir) held at the Shalimar Convention Centre, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed immense pride in the outstanding achievements of female students, who secured the majority of gold medals. Highlighting their success, he warmly congratulated the students and their parents for their unwavering support, crediting them for nurturing a “golden future” for Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and the nation.Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Abdullah, who serves as the Pro-Chancellor of SKUAST-K, remarked, “Daughters of the country are scripting a golden future with their brilliance and continue to shine bright.” He emphasized the pivotal role of parents, noting, “The silent sacrifices, support, and belief of parents have nurtured this success.” The convocation celebrated the university’s contributions to agricultural innovation and its remarkable progress in national and global rankings.Women Students Dominate Academic HonorsA highlight of the ceremony was the exceptional performance of female students. Out of 150 gold medals awarded for academic excellence, 115 were secured by women. Additionally, 334 out of 445 Certificates of Merit were conferred to female students, underscoring their dominance in agricultural sciences and technology. This achievement reflects SKUAST-K’s commitment to fostering gender inclusivity and empowering women in education.

SKUAST-K’s Role in Shaping J&K’s FutureThe convocation, attended by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha (Chancellor of SKUAST-K) and Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers’ Welfare, and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, saw 5,250 students receiving undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral degrees. Chief Minister Abdullah praised SKUAST-K for its role in creating a “competent and competitive human resource” and advancing the farm sector in J&K through initiatives like the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP).“HADP is improving the income of 13 lakh farmer families in Kashmir and is being seen as a role model across India,” said Union Minister Chouhan, echoing the Chief Minister’s sentiments on the university’s contributions. SKUAST-K’s improved national and global rankings were also highlighted, positioning it as a leader in agricultural education and innovation.Key Highlights of SKUAST-K Convocation

A Vision for a Progressive J&KChief Minister Abdullah’s remarks underscored the transformative potential of women in agriculture, a field critical to J&K’s economy. “The brilliance of our daughters is a beacon of hope for a progressive and prosperous future,” he said. The overwhelming representation of women in academic honors signals a shift toward gender equity in traditionally male-dominated fields like agricultural science.The event also highlighted SKUAST-K’s broader impact on J&K’s agricultural landscape. The university’s research and innovation efforts, coupled with its focus on sustainable farming practices, are strengthening the region’s agrarian economy and empowering rural communities.

Conclusion

The 6th Convocation of SKUAST-Kashmir was a celebration of academic excellence, with women students leading the charge. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s heartfelt congratulations to the students and their parents resonated with the audience, reflecting the pride of a region witnessing its daughters break barriers. As SKUAST-K continues to shape the future of agriculture in J&K, the achievements of its students, particularly women, herald a bright and inclusive future for the Union Territory and the nation.