Editor,
Through the columns of your esteemed daily, I wish to highlight the role and importance of agricultural engineers. In the ever-evolving landscape of rural development and water resource management, agricultural engineering is emerging as a crucial pillar in ensuring sustainable growth, environmental balance, etc. They play a pivotal role in turning ambitious policies into on-ground realities. As rural development becomes more technology driven, the need for agricultural engineers in the RWD and the WRD has never been greater. Their skill-set sits at the interaction of agriculture and infrastructure, making them uniquely equipped to contribute in both the RWD and the WRD.
Agricultural engineers working in the RWD are responsible for the design and execution of all-weather rural roads connectivity, check dams and culverts, green bridges, eco-drainage system, etc. Under schemes like the MGNREGA and the PMGSY, the RWD executes land development works where agricultural engineers ensure scientific design, slope stabilisation and economic use of materials. Meanwhile, in the WRD, their expertise is invaluable in managing water resources through canal irrigation system, flood control structures, soil conservation, watershed management projects, etc. The synergy between the RWD and the WRD through agricultural engineers not only enhances rural livelihoods but also contributes directly or indirectly in several UN’s Sustainable Development Goals such as SDG2, SDG6, SDG9, and SDG13.
Agricultural engineering is no longer just an academic field; it’s a transformative tool for rural development, and also, agricultural engineers are not just technicians; rather they are the invisible force behind every successful canal, resilient road, or watershed in rural areas. As the state moves towards sustainable agriculture, water conservation and rural infrastructure development, agricultural engineers’ role in the RWD and the WRD is not just important but indispensable.
An aspirant