In a surprise visit to the Wheat Research Station (WRS), NAU, Bardoli centre on October 03, 2026, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor of Navsari Agricultural University (NAU), Navsari, Dr. R. M. Naik, paid an unannounced call accompanied by Director of Students' Welfare, Dr. Jaimin R. Naik, and Comptroller, Shree Chirag B. Naik. Despite the unexpected arrival, Dr. R. D. Vekariya, Assistant Research Scientist, extended a warm welcome to the Vice-Chancellor and accompanying officials before introducing them to the staff members present at the centre.

During the operational briefing, Dr. Vekariya outlined the ongoing activities at the station, highlighting multi-season research experiments conducted across Rabi, Kharif, and Summer, as well as the active seed production program. He also presented an action plan dedicated to future cucurbit vegetable research initiatives. Following the presentation, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor inspected the research farm, the newly constructed office-cum-godown building, and the old office premises, providing valuable suggestions on farm infrastructure, land development, and research facility upgrades. He specifically highlighted the necessity of strengthening cucurbitaceous vegetable research in a full-fledged manner to support vegetable growers across South Gujarat.

Additionally, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor urged the team to ensure full-fledged execution of the newly approved natural farming project in compliance with NMNF guidelines. This includes establishing one Natural Farming model farm at the WRS Bardoli centre and three on farmers' fields. Concluding the visit, he interacted with staff members, commending their dedicated efforts while encouraging them to perform at their best, elevate research and extension activities, and drive novel research initiatives for the welfare of the farming community.