IRise Transforms Rural Youth into Agri-Entrepreneurs at Howrah KVK

20 November 2025, Howrah

A significant milestone in agricultural transformation and youth empowerment was achieved with the successful conclusion of the 23-day IRise (Inculcating Rural India Skill Enhancement) Skill Development Programme at Howrah Krishi Vigyan Kendra (BCKV), under the aegis of ICAR–Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Kolkata. The initiative set a new benchmark in youth-led agricultural development by converting aspirations into enterprise and strengthening the future workforce of rural India.

The valedictory session was held in virtual mode and graced by Dr. Pradip Dey, Director, ICAR–ATARI, Kolkata, and Dr. Pallab Dutta, DEE, BCKV.

In his address, Dr. Dey emphasized that IRise has emerged as a CSR-driven transformative initiative that equips rural youth with essential skills, confidence, and a future-ready perspective in agriculture. He noted that the programme is fostering employability and entrepreneurship through hands-on training, field exposure, and industry-linked internships, thereby contributing to the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047. Dr. Dey also highlighted that the partnership between Howrah KVK and the Syngenta Foundation serves as a robust and replicable model for rural empowerment and agricultural advancement in West Bengal.

Dr. Dutta commended the efforts of Howrah KVK, stating that the IRise collaboration has effectively prepared rural youth for emerging agri-business opportunities by integrating practical training with industry exposure.

The programme stood out as an exemplary model of meaningful convergence between a Krishi Vigyan Kendra and the corporate sector, demonstrating the potential of collaborative initiatives to create sustainable livelihood avenues while fostering individual career growth and strengthening the agricultural ecosystem of West Bengal.

A total of 40 aspiring young agri-entrepreneurs, aged 18 to 35 years, from Howrah and nearby districts participated in the training.

(Source: ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Kolkata)