Under the auspices of the Brahmaswarup Pramukh Swami Maharaj Centenary Celebrations and to mark its golden jubilee celebrations, the Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Krushi University, Sardarkrushinagar, in association with AARSH Research Institute, Swaminarayan Akshardham, Gandhinagar, organized a seminar on the topic ‘Krushi Maharshi: Pramukh Swami Maharaj’ at the Prof. V.R. Mehta Auditorium. The seminar highlighted Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s invaluable contributions in the field of agriculture and his outstanding efforts for water conservation.

The seminar was chaired by Prof. R.M. Chauhan, Chancellor of Sardar Krushinagar Dantiwada Krushi University.

Following inaugural prayers and the traditional lighting of the lamp, a video highlighted Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s exemplary planning, decision-making and foresight in agriculture and water conservation.

In his speech Prof. Shrutiprakashdas Swami highlighted that Pramukh Swami Maharaj was adept in agriculture and had a special ability to identify appropriate livestock. During the 1987 drought in Gujarat, Pramukh Swami Maharaj guided the BAPS Sanstha to set up four cattle camps to care for more than 10,000 cattle endangered by the drought.

As water is a fundamental factor in farming, Pramukh Swami Maharaj actively encouraged the proper storage, use and conservation of water. To provide irrigation facilities to the farmers of Gujarat, he supported the government in implementing the Narmada irrigation project. At the initial stage of the scheme, when there was an obstacle for a loan from the World Bank, he appealed to all to invest in Narmada Srinidhi Bonds and BAPS Sanstha made first contribution of Rs. 51 lakhs. He also encouraged water conservation projects, like well recharging, and tree planting.

Dr. S.P. Pandya presented a detailed presentation showing the various pioneering agricultural activities undertaken by BAPS Sanstha.

Other speakers included, Shri Ghanshyambhai Patel, former Finance Director of the Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Krushi University (via video), Dr. P.K. Patel and Prof. R.M. Chauhan, Chancellor of Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Krushi University.