“Orchid Sher-e-Punjab” Inaugurated: Heralding a New Era of Innovation in Agricultural Education at MRSPTU
Kanwar Inder Singh/ royalpatiala.in News/ April 22,2026
In a visionary initiative that seamlessly integrates sustainability, innovation, and experiential learning, the School of Agricultural Sciences and Engineering at Maharaja Ranjit Singh Punjab Technical University (MRSPTU) inaugurated its state-of-the-art facility, “Orchid Sher-e-Punjab.”
The occasion marked a significant milestone in redefining agricultural education through immersive, hands-on learning and advanced cultivation practices.
The Chief Guest, Moonesh Kumar, IAS, Director Technical Education and Industrial Training, Punjab, formally inaugurated the facility. Adding a symbolic and inspiring dimension to the ceremony, he planted date palm saplings—representing resilience, sustainability, and the progressive diversification of Punjab’s agricultural landscape.
In his address, Moonesh Kumar lauded MRSPTU’s forward-looking vision, describing “Orchid Sher-e-Punjab” as a pioneering and future-centric initiative embodying innovation-driven, sustainable, and skill-oriented agriculture. He emphasized that such integrated platforms are vital in nurturing a new generation of agri-entrepreneurs and technocrats, equipped to address emerging challenges with scientific insight and practical expertise. He further underscored that the convergence of technology, sustainability, and education reflected in this facility will play a transformative role in strengthening Punjab’s agrarian economy and ensuring long-term resilience and prosperity.
The ceremony was presided over by the Vice Chancellor of MRSPTU, Prof. (Dr.) Sanjeev Kumar Sharma, whose visionary leadership and commitment to modern, skill-oriented education continue to drive such transformative initiatives.
Prof. Susheel Mittal, Vice Chancellor, I.K. Gujral Punjab Technical University (IKGPTU), Kapurthala, graced the occasion as Guest of Honour and commended MRSPTU for its steadfast commitment to developing future-ready agricultural infrastructure and promoting industry-aligned, application-oriented education.
Addressing the gathering, the dignitaries highlighted key focus areas such as intercropping systems and diversified fruit plantations as effective strategies to enhance farm income and mitigate agricultural risks. Special emphasis was placed on the adoption of drip irrigation technology as a critical solution for water conservation in Punjab’s agrarian ecosystem. The speakers collectively stressed the importance of integrating skill development with research-driven learning to equip students with practical competence and entrepreneurial capabilities.
In his address, Prof. (Dr.) Sanjeev Kumar Sharma reiterated the importance of bridging the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world agricultural challenges. He stated that “Orchid Sher-e-Punjab” will function not only as a floriculture unit but also as a dynamic living laboratory fostering innovation, research excellence, and skill enhancement.
Dr. Gurinderpal Singh Brar, Registrar, was also present and reaffirmed the institution’s unwavering support for innovation-led development. He presented the vote of thanks, acknowledging the collective efforts and collaborative spirit that contributed to the grand success of the event.
The event was meticulously organized under the leadership of Prof. Jasvir Singh Tiwana, with significant contributions from Dr. Kanwaljit Singh, Er. Rajinder Singh Smagh, and Dr. Wineet Chawla. Its success was further strengthened by the dedicated efforts of faculty members including Dr. Ruksana, Dr. Sukhpreet Kaur, Ramandeep Kaur, Simranpreet Kaur, Ramandeep Kaur Gill, Kiranpreet Kaur, and Samarpreet Singh, whose collective commitment ensured seamless execution of the programme.
“Orchid Sher-e-Punjab” is envisioned as a centre of excellence that will promote sustainable agriculture, advanced floriculture, and innovation-driven research—thereby setting new benchmarks in agricultural education and capacity building.
