Skills Over Degree! School Dropout From Rajasthan Set To Design Syllabus For Agricultural Universities

A farmer named Hukumchand Patidar has joined a group of elite scientists and academicians to curate a syllabus for the country's agricultural universities. Patidar is a part of the committee formed under the Indian Council For Agricultural Research (ICMR) and will apply to the educational institutions that follow the council's rules.

The committee consists of esteemed experts, educationists and scientists with many educational degrees. Patidar will add his knowledge of organic farming into the mix to make the necessary curriculum for the institutes.

Introduction Of Natural Farming In College Syllabus

According to The Times of India, the curriculum will be framed from Class XI to the PhD level. "So far, the agriculture universities run courses like BSc, MSc and PhD in horticulture and agriculture. This is for the first time, the course 'Prakratik Evam Govansh Adharit Krishi' (Natural and Cow Dung related Agriculture) will be introduced in schools, colleges and universities," Patidar told the news publication.

What makes Hukumchand Patidar stands out is his expertise in the natural form of agriculture. In Class 10, he dropped out of school to help his father farm. Over the years, he introduced eco-friendly methods to make his native village chemical-free. Hukumchand Patidar adds, "I introduced several measures on the farmland which has increased the carbon content in the land. The result is that the land became conducive for the growth of microorganisms and insects that are required for enhancing the soil value." Also, he encouraged 150 other farmers to adopt this method.

For this reason, Patidar was conferred with Padma Shri in 2018. He is also known for growing organic fruits and vegetables exported abroad, mainly to Europe. With his efforts, he aims to make a difference in the country's agricultural methods. "I will disclose how the ancient texts have helped me in the field of traditional farming at the meeting with the committee members," Patidar adds. The report will be prepared within two months and introduced in the upcoming academic year.

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