MoU Signing and Participants

On July 11, 2026, Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) and the Department of Agriculture, Government of Rajasthan signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Department of Agriculture premises in Jaipur. The signing was witnessed by Smt. Manju Rajpal, IAS, Principal Secretary of Agriculture, Horticulture and Panchayati Raj (Agriculture) Department, Government of Rajasthan, and Shri Naresh Goyal, IAS, Commissioner of the Department of Agriculture, Government of Rajasthan. Representing MUJ were Prof. Amit Soni, Registrar, and Prof. Vijaypal Singh Dhaka, Dean – Quality and Accreditation.

Objectives and Scope of Collaboration

The MoU establishes a framework for joint research and innovation focused on applying artificial intelligence (AI) and smart technologies to achieve sustainable agricultural development throughout Rajasthan. Specific activities outlined include:

  • Conducting collaborative research in emerging agricultural technologies and AI‑enabled smart farming solutions.
  • Organising capacity‑building programmes for farmers and agricultural professionals.
  • Promoting climate‑resilient and sustainable farming practices.
  • Establishing a Centre of Excellence for agricultural research and innovation.
  • Supporting agri‑tech entrepreneurship and start‑ups.
  • Strengthening academic and institutional collaboration between MUJ and the Department of Agriculture.

Expected Impact

The partnership aims to bridge academia, technology, and government policy to enhance agricultural productivity, improve resource efficiency, and increase farmer incomes. It is positioned to contribute to Rajasthan’s broader goal of building a modern, technology‑enabled agricultural ecosystem, aligning with national priorities such as digital agriculture, food security, and climate‑resilient farming.

Statements from Stakeholders

Prof. Amit Soni, Registrar of MUJ, emphasized that the collaboration combines the university’s research strengths with the department’s policy vision and field expertise, and that the joint effort will develop technology‑driven solutions that meaningfully benefit the agricultural sector and strengthen Rajasthan’s innovation ecosystem.

Alignment with National Priorities

The MoU supports the Indian government’s emphasis on digital agriculture, strengthening food security, and enhancing farmer incomes through scientific and technological interventions.