The university has been without a regular VC since August 2023, when former Vice-Chancellor Dr HK Chaudhary retired. Since then, the institution has been administered by a series of acting vice-chancellors, raising concerns among faculty members, researchers and students over the impact of prolonged temporary leadership on the university’s academic and research activities.
Dr Ashok Kumar Panda, who had been serving as acting VC, retired yesterday, following which the state government appointed Dr Nigam to take charge of the university.
Over the past three years, the government has appointed Dr DK Vatsa, Dr Naveen Kumar and Dr Ashok Kumar Panda as acting VCs at different intervals. The appointment of Dr Nigam marks the fourth occasion during this period that the university has been placed under temporary leadership rather than a full-time VC.
Academicians and former university officials contend that the continued absence of a regular Vice-Chancellor has affected decision-making, long-term planning and the implementation of key academic and research initiatives. They argue that major policy decisions, recruitment drives, infrastructure development projects and collaborative research programmes require continuity and stable leadership, which can be difficult to achieve under interim arrangements.
Sources within the university said several academic and administrative matters remain pending due to the lack of a permanent head. Concerns have also been raised over delays in faculty recruitment, approval of research projects and strategic planning for the institution’s future development.
Established in 1978, the CSKHPKV is one of northern India’s leading agricultural universities and plays a pivotal role in agricultural education, research and extension services in Himachal Pradesh. The university has contributed significantly to the development of improved crop varieties, the promotion of sustainable farming practices and the dissemination of technical knowledge among farmers across the state.
Faculty members and stakeholders have urged the state government to expedite the appointment of a regular VC to restore administrative stability and strengthen the university’s academic and research programmes. They maintain that permanent leadership is essential for preserving the institution’s reputation and enabling it to respond effectively to emerging challenges in the agriculture sector.
The continued reliance on acting vice-chancellors has once again brought the issue of leadership at the university into sharp focus, with many in academic circles hoping that a regular appointment will be made without further delay.
The Baisakhi Sale Plan offers an excellent value of 2 years of subscription + 6 months complimentary.
If you proceed with this purchase, your current monthly subscription plan will be immediately cancelled.