Assam is set to get its fourth agricultural college, with the state Cabinet approving the allotment of 84.6 acres of land at Patharkandi for establishing the first such institution in the Barak Valley, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Wednesday.
In a post on X, Sarma said the decision would create new opportunities for young people in the region to pursue agricultural education, research and innovation.
“Assam is set to get its fourth Agricultural College and Barak Valley its first,” Sarma said, adding that 84.6 acres at Patharkandi had been allotted for the proposed institution.
The college will be located in Patharkandi in Sribhumi district, where agriculture remains an important part of the local economy. The institution is expected to improve access to specialised agricultural education for students from Barak Valley and adjoining areas.
The Cabinet had earlier approved the transfer of a large tract of land at Pratapgarh for establishing the College of Agriculture at Patharkandi. Reports on the earlier decision had put the land allocation at around 256-257 bighas.
The proposed institution is expected to provide a platform for research into crops, farming practices and agricultural technologies suited to the region, besides creating opportunities for professional education in agriculture and allied sectors.
The project is part of the Assam government’s broader efforts to strengthen agricultural education and infrastructure. The Agriculture Department’s mandate covers areas including agricultural training, mechanisation, irrigation, crop insurance, marketing and other support services for farmers.
With the Cabinet clearing the land allotment, the project has moved a step closer to implementation. Further details on the college’s academic structure, courses, construction timeline and admission process are expected to be announced by the state government.
(IANS Inputs)
