Dibrugarh: Union minister of state for external affairs and textiles Pabitra Margherita praised Assam Agricultural University (AAU)’s transformative role in the state’s agricultural development during the institution’s 78th foundation day celebrations on Saturday.Speaking as the chief guest at the milestone event at AAU, Jorhat, Margherita hailed the university’s pivotal contribution to Assam’s farming sector. “Assam Agricultural University has played a pivotal role in transforming the agricultural landscape of the state and the entire northeast. As the first agricultural university in the region, AAU has not only empowered farmers and agripreneurs, but also strengthened food security through innovation and education. The contribution of AAU to the development of Assam’s agricultural sector is immense. AAU must continue to bridge the gap between laboratory research and field application. The future of Assam’s agriculture depends on sustainable practices and technological adoption, and this university is at the forefront of that mission,” the Union minister said, extending his greetings to current and former students as well as faculty members.Established in 1969, AAU holds the distinction of being the first agricultural university in the northeast. Its origins trace back to the Assam Agricultural College, founded in 1948. Over the decades, AAU has emerged as a hub for agricultural education, research, and extension services, benefiting farmers, agribusinesses, and policymakers alike. The university’s mission is to produce globally competitive professionals in agriculture, while conducting cutting-edge research to optimise production and ensure sustainability. In his address, AAU vice-chancellor Bidyut Chandan Deka highlighted the institution’s recent achievements. “This year, we introduced B Tech and M Tech programmes in molecular biology and biotechnology. The university will also launch three-year diploma courses in agriculture and horticulture from Oct 15, 2025, aimed at skill development in rural youth,” he said. Deka added that AAU has secured three patents and released several high-yielding crop varieties, emphasising its commitment to agricultural innovation. “Our research focuses on sustainability, equity, and household-level food security, ensuring that farmers receive scientifically validated solutions,” he said.