Solan: Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla led the 12th Convocation at Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, awarding degrees to 1305 students.
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu conferred 23 gold medals, with 20 going to female students. He announced a Rs 10,000 reward for each gold medalist.
The Governor emphasized youth's role in societal impact through self-employment.
He urged practical application of research in fields, especially for farmers. Stressing natural farming, he commended the university's efforts in this direction.
CM Sukhu encouraged resilience in facing challenges and highlighted women's achievements, mentioning a 30% reservation in police recruitment.
He expressed concerns about the state's economic situation but pledged government efforts for a sustainable future.
The state adopted 4000 orphans, providing support until age 27.
Sukhu outlined plans to boost farmers' income through upcoming budget provisions, promoting natural farming and self-employment initiatives.
A Rs. 680 crore Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Start-Up Scheme was launched, offering e-taxi permits and subsidies.
Honorary degrees were conferred on CMD SJVN Nand Lal Sharma and DDG ICAR R.C. Aggarwal. 
This prestigious honor underlines the extraordinary contribution of Sharma in the field of power generation and administration , strengthening his image as a leading stalwart.
The university's achievements and focus on natural farming research were highlighted by the VC.
Vice Chancellor Dr. Rajeshwar Chandel said that the University has focussed more on research activities.
He thanked the state government for Rs 4 crore for research in natural farming and development.
He disclosed that graduation and post-graduation courses in natural farming were being started in the university from the next academic session.
The state government has provided Rs. 2.50 crore for pursuing research work in the university which would be allocated to the different departments through 41 projects, he added.
The Governor and CM inaugurated a Skill Development Hostel and Yoga & Meditation Center.
Health Minister Dr. Dhani Ram Shandil and other officials were present.
