Udaipur, October 3 (Udaipur Kiran News): Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology (MPUAT), Udaipur, has achieved a historic milestone by securing the first position in Rajasthan among state-funded universities in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF). The university has also attained the 83rd rank nationally in the field of research, marking a remarkable achievement under the visionary leadership of Vice-Chancellor Dr. Ajit Kumar Karnataka.

Over the past three years, MPUAT has made exceptional progress across research, education, extension, innovation, and entrepreneurship, setting new benchmarks in agricultural education and research.

🌾 Key Achievements Under Dr. Karnataka’s Leadership

• Top Rank in Rajasthan in NIRF among state-funded universities.

• National Rank 83 in research, reflecting strong academic and research output.

• Significant advancements in renewable energy, natural farming, and rural development.

• Development and national approval of Pratap Hybrid Maize-6, and notification of Pratap Groundnut-3 and Pratap Jowar 2510 varieties.

• 33 international MoUs signed with leading global universities and industries, facilitating joint research, academic exchange, and technology transfer.

• Over 71 students and 11 faculty members trained in top foreign universities under ICAR’s National Agricultural Higher Education Project.

🌞 Sustainability & Innovation

• Generated ₹1.46 crore worth of solar energy, significantly reducing electricity expenses and promoting green energy.

• Established India’s first Water Co-operative at Hinta village under the Governor’s Initiative, a pioneering model for community-based water management.

• Published “Millet Coffee Table Book” and “The Millet Story” to promote India’s Millet Mission and highlight global recognition during UN’s International Year of Millets 2023.

👨‍🌾 Extension & Farmer Empowerment

• All Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) under MPUAT received ISO certification, ensuring global quality standards in extension services.

• Formation of 9 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) to support collective marketing, value addition, and better price realization.

• Upgradation of college laboratories with certified facilities to boost research and innovation.

For his outstanding contributions, Dr. Ajit Kumar Karnataka was honored with the ‘Krishi Ratna’ Award by the Entomological Research Association for remarkable work in plant protection. In May 2025, he was elected President of the Indian Agricultural Universities Association, bringing national recognition to Udaipur and Rajasthan.

Through these achievements, MPUAT has not only strengthened its academic and research stature but also emerged as a model of excellence in agricultural innovation and rural sustainability.