Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, also known as CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University (CSK HPKV), is a renowned agricultural institution located in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India. Established on November 1, 1978, it expanded from the pre-existing College of Agriculture founded in May 1966. The university has a distinct focus on hill agriculture and is accredited by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The university is dedicated to both research and extension activities. It operates advanced research centers on its main campus in Palampur, including the Advance Centre for Hill Bio Resource & Biotechnology, Organic Farming Research and Training Centre, Centre for Commercial Mountain Agriculture and Enterprises Development, Centre for Policy Research in Mountain Agriculture & Rural Development, and Centre for Human Resources Development in Mountain Agriculture. Moreover, it has several Krishi Vigyan Kendras (Agricultural Science Centres) and off-campus research and extension centers scattered across the region. CSK HPKV has made significant contributions to agriculture in Himachal Pradesh. It has released numerous varieties of cereals, pulses, vegetables, oilseeds, fodder, and tea. The university is also known for its publications in both English and Hindi and operates an Agricultural Technology Information Centre at its entrance. Offering a range of undergraduate and post-graduate courses, CSK HPKV's programs include BSc (Hons) in agriculture, B.Tech in food technology, BSc in physical and life sciences, BSc (Hons) in community science, B.VSc in veterinary and animal sciences at the undergraduate level, and MSc in agriculture, PhD in agriculture, MVSc in veterinary and animal sciences, and MSc in food science and nutrition at the postgraduate level. The university's infrastructure includes modern and well-equipped lecture rooms, laboratories, and auditoriums. These facilities facilitate effective teaching, research, and academic discussions. The well-stocked Nehru Library serves as a hub for knowledge and research materials, offering a vast collection of books and journals in multiple languages. As a reflection of its commitment to both academic and extracurricular activities, the university provides facilities for sports and recreation. University offers state-of-the-art infrastructure for various sports disciplines, including athletics, wrestling, hockey, boxing, and judo. The university's focus on physical well-being is also evident through its Olympic-size swimming pool, indoor badminton courts, squash courts, and gymnasiums. Throughout its history, CSK HPKV has played a pivotal role in transforming the agricultural landscape of Himachal Pradesh. The university's emphasis on education, research, and extension services has enabled the state to achieve recognition for its agricultural diversification and excellence in food grain production. Nestled in Palampur at an elevation of 1250 meters, CSK HPKV is well-connected by rail, road, and air. With four constituent colleges and a range of degree programs, the university continues to be a driving force in advancing agricultural knowledge and practices in the region.
