Leh, June 30: The DST-Technology Enabling Center (TEC) at the University of Ladakh (UoL) successfully hosted the much-anticipated ‘Ladakh Agrithon 2024’ at its Leh campus, bringing together technocrats, researchers, entrepreneurs, startups, and progressive farmers to explore and showcase innovative agricultural solutions.
The event, which took place over the past weekend, was designed to provide a dynamic platform for presenting pioneering ideas, inventions, and product prototypes across a range of agricultural themes including ‘Precision Agriculture, Crop and Horticulture Farming, Farm Mechanization, Digital Agriculture & Automation, Supply Chain & Logistics, Post-Harvest & Food Technology, and Innovation & Invention in Agriculture’. The Agrithon aimed to address the unique agricultural challenges of Ladakh and explore novel solutions for the sector’s advancement.
Dr. Sandipan Mukherjee, Head of the GB-Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment, graced the event as the chief guest. In his inaugural address, Dr. Mukherjee commended the TEC-UoL team, led by Vice Chancellor Prof. S.K. Mehta, for their efforts in organizing the Agrithon. He praised the innovative projects from the GB-Pant Institute that tackle the cold arid conditions of Ladakh’s agriculture, reflecting on their potential to influence agricultural practices in similar environments.
Nawang Tundup, I/C Registrar of the University of Ladakh and Co-Coordinator of TEC-UoL, highlighted the center’s mission to foster a robust technology development ecosystem within the university. He affirmed TEC-UoL’s commitment to supporting emerging agripreneurs and advancing agricultural innovation in Ladakh.
The event was also marked by a warm welcome from Jigmet Stobdan, Co-Coordinator of TEC-UoL, and a comprehensive overview of the Agrithon 2024 by Dr. Mohd Rafee, Co-Coordinator of TEC-UoL. The jury panel for the event included distinguished experts such as Dr. Rakshak Kumar from Tripura University, Sonam Lotus from IMD, Dr. Deldan Namgyal, Dr. Kunzes Angmo, and Dr. Anwar Hussain from SKUAST-Leh.
A total of 35 participants/teams/firms showcased their innovative technologies, business ideas, and product prototypes. These presentations covered a broad spectrum of agricultural topics, from traditional practices to cutting-edge digital precision farming solutions. The jury evaluated the entries based on criteria such as novelty, commercialization potential, and societal impact.
The event concluded with the announcement of winners and runners-up in various categories, who were awarded cash prizes and certificates of appreciation for their outstanding contributions. Dr. Mehboob Ali, Co-Coordinator of DST-TEC, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all participants and attendees. He also shared the organizers’ enthusiasm for future events aimed at fostering agricultural innovation in Ladakh.
Ladakh Agrithon 2024 was a resounding success, fostering a collaborative environment for the exchange of ideas and setting the stage for future advancements in agricultural technology.
